Protect Your Feet With Quality Shoes, Not Nike Shox

By Chris Shearman, appeared in tigerweekly.com

Many people go into a shoe store looking for running shoes and buy the shoes that they think are cute or that look cool. And many novice runners believe that if a shoe is over $80 it must be a pretty good shoe. Perhaps the biggest gimmick in all of these misconceptions is the Nike Shox.

When running around the LSU lakes it is likely to see at least half of the people wearing these shoes. Without mentioning any of the statistics, reviews and truths, it should be known that these shoes are not just bad for feet during running, they are bad for feet in general.

There are very specific aspects that make up a good running shoe. Possibly the most important of which is that a running shoe should train the runner to run on the balls of the feet. This is done by producing a shoe that has just as much cushion on the front as in the back, therefore promoting the shift of the impact from the heels to the balls of the feet.

This simple technology has been utilized by many old school running brands. When browsing at the local shoe stores, take a look at the actual design and mechanics of the shoe. A shoe made by Brooks, Asics, or the upper level New Balance will have almost equal cushioning on the bottom throughout the shoe.

Runners World, who has been the number one source of quality and breakthrough information about running for years, has a shoe guide on their website. The shoes mentioned there are Asics, Brooks, and the upper priced New Balance. In the runner's world, Nike Shox are a joke. Whether at Happy's Running Club or the Reindeer Run, both of these races are laid back and even then the appearance of Nike Shox will not be on the feet of someone in the front of the pack, if at all.

Perhaps the most obvious flaw in the Shox is the fact that there are gaps in the shoe; the elusive Air technology. Though Nike markets this as the genius of the shoe, it is absolutely absurd have air where support could be. That is the equivalent of taking the sole of a shoe, cutting a piece of it out, and then convincing runners that it is a better shoe.

Though young people might think the Shox are like the shocks on a car and will give them more spring, it is actually a shoe that contradicts the necessary technology to support an injury-free runner.

LSU students and runners alike can receive similar information at local running stores. Usually these stores employ people who have some experience with running and will never offer you Nike Shox for your ideal trainer shoe. Do a favor and convert all Nike Shox into rainy day school shoes.

If My 'Lola' Can Do It, You Can Do It, Too!

MOMMY TALK By Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan
(The Philippine Star) Updated September 29, 2009 12:00 AM

Since I started making reasons for working out and stopped making excuses on why I should not be active, I have been able to make fitness a part of my lifestyle habit. I must have had this fitness bug in my genes because even my 86-year-old grandmother has been fit all her life. She walks at least two kilometers a day for as long as I can remember. She joined the MommyMilkshake Marathon and the Enervon Memorace at the Fort and won as the oldest finisher. How’s that for a woman who’s in her late 80s? And mind you, she’s just getting started!

She is looking forward to joining more fun runs especially if it’s for a good cause because she finds the races a great way to get together with people and get her grandchildren to walk/jog with her to the finish line. We take turns accompanying her while she talks to us. It’s a great way to get her mind working and her body functioning, which allows her not to mind the distance she’s walking. My Mamang also enjoys bringing home the goody bags and sharing them with her family.

She’s had a different glow lately and has also become more concerned with her comfort while doing her exercise. Good thing she won a nice pair of New Balance running shoes because she had asked for one before the Enervon Memorace. She’s since gone shopping for running outfits as well. Wow, I just can’t get over the fact that my Mamang is living life to the fullest at this time. People say that the second half of their lives is the best half of their lives. In this case, my grandmother is already in the third half of her life and still having a blast.

After posting my grandmother’s photos on Facebook, so many people were inspired by her finishing three-kilometer races. So many people I know have made a choice to get started with their exercise regimen upon realizing that it’s never too late to take that first step to fitness. If my lola can do it, so can they!

So, if you are reading this and you haven’t yet fulfilled your New Year’s resolution to diet and exercise, I urge you to do it now. Just do it! I promise you’ll see life in a brighter perspective just like my grandmother.

Most Wanted: Running Gears For The Marathon and Beyond

You may or may not be running a 26-mile race soon, but you’re still taking your fitness seriously this fall—which means having the right gear for running in the crisp, leaf-crunching weather. There’s another reason this is a great season to step into new footwear and running apparel—running gear is hitting a stylish and high-tech stride that enhances what has historically been a primarily functional role. Frankly, we’re finding these new runner’s duds inspirational. Editors-who-run John Dugan and Liz Plosser have selected some personal favorites from this season’s offerings of running shoes and apparel—just in time for this year’s Chicago Marathon or your pre-Thanksgiving training push. One warning: Once you’re wearing running a kit this cool, you’ve got no excuses. Meet you on the trail.

SHOES

Nike Lunar Glide+ shoes, $100 (men’s and women’s) available at Niketown (669 N Michigan)
Nike’s latest, greatest sneaker eliminates the ubiquitous runner’s quandary of having to choose between stability and cushioning by providing both in one shoe. (Bonus points for the sweet design and colorways.) The snugly fit (more slipper than sneaker) and soft (but not too soft) sole makes for a cushy ride. But lest you think you’re going to plod slowly away atop pillows, the feather-light sneaks (the women’s are a mere 8.6 ounces) make you feel like you’ve got rockets on your feet. Seeee ya!

New Balance 905 shoes, $94.95 at nbwebexpress.com
This year, New Balance 1063s turned around my running game—somehow their design gives support to my oddly shaped giant boats and has put some spring in my morning jog. I quit my gym, I lost weight—those shoes are that rad. I’m thinking of stepping up to a racing shoe (maybe even racing again) and number one on my list is the “premium lightweight stability trainer,” the New Balance 905, which can be used for both training and racing debuting in January 2010. On the techy side, these are designed to hug the foot with a custom-like fit, control moisture and reflect 360º for safety. The New Balance 905 has a brighter, more aggressive look—which I’m digging—and marks a shift for New Balance away from fairly humdrum running shoe colors of the past. These babies pop.

adiStar Ride 2, $125 at shopadidas.com
The new elite running shoe from adidas has yet to hit the streets, but its talking-point attraction is a new technology allowing the shoe to flex more naturally with your movement. Active ForMotion involves “a panel of stretch material located in the upper midfoot section of the shoe reduces overall torsion stiffness, thus supporting the foot in its natural running movement.”

SHORTS

New Balance Women’s NBX Shorts, $40 at nbwebexpress.com
At first glance, they look fairly simple. But hang on because there’s a half dozen bells and whistles humbly at work in these shorts. First, the X-Static fabric is: antimicrobial (no yucky sweat germs), eliminates odor (no nose-pinching, post-run stink), regulates temperature (perfect for an Indian summer day or steamy treadmill session), eliminates static (no lame short bunching). Then, there’s the subtle storage compartment—on the front of the shorts so you never again have to man-handle your butt as you try to grab that fiver out of the pocket for a post-run cup of coffee. Finally, the sewn-in, customizable “In Case Of Emergency” tag. Yeah, you’ll probably never need it, but it’s nice to know NB is thinking of everything, isn’t it?

Nike Pacer Women’s Low Rise Running Capris, $50 available at Niketown
Yeah, it’s just a pair of black capris, but considering they’re a staple of any runner’s wardrobe come the crisp days of October, they’d better be comfy. And cute. Nike nails both of these crucial elements with the new Pacer. Dri-FIT fabric wicks sweat, flat seams minimize chafing, the low-rise waist is super flattering, mesh hems add some style, a back zip pocket stores your cash and ID, and a media-player pocket makes it a cinch to take your tunes on the road. Ladies, you will live in these suckers!

Nike Dri-Fit Tempo Track Two-in-One Men’s Running Shorts, $50 available at Niketown
Regularly jogging men, if you are still running in sweats or basketball shorts, I have news for you—there’s a better way—a much better way. If you can’t get over the fact that strangers will see your thighs and you won’t pony up for short and proper running shorts, the 7” inseam Tempo is for you. The built in boxer keeps one dry and they’re light as air, with a media pocket for your music player.

TOPS

New Balance Women’s Tissue Knit Tank, $36 at nbwebexpress.com
At first touch, you’ll think, “comfy nightshirt that I want to wear on a lazy Sunday morning while reading the paper.” While that may not be the ideal mind-set as you suit up for a run, be assured that this shirt is just right for jogging. No tight, body-hugging lycra, no weird cutouts exposing skin, no rough seams that chafe and scratch. Just a straightforward, cotton-feel that belies the intense technical fabrics in action (hydrophobic polyester yarns move moisture to keep you dry). The mellow lavender hue just adds to the experience. So you have it both ways in this tank—read your newspaper or run in it. Or both!

NBx Adapter Long Sleeve, $60 at nbwebexpress.com
Meet the clothing of the future you can wear now. The long-lasting high-tech fabric in this shirt has a layer of silver in it and is made to cool off in summer, insulate in winter—but we just think it looks like something you wear on another planet while cruising around. You could layer it for a cold-weather workout, but that would be a bit of a shame. It’s meant to be seen.

ASICS ARD Women’s Shimimel, $55 at asicsamerica.com
Each piece in the new ARD (advanced running development) collection is made with ultra-lightweight mesh, strategically designed for reflectivity, flatlock stitch and welded seam-free back mesh for breathability and comfort. While we dig the Shimmel’s built-in shelf bra and zipper for temperature management, whatever you choose from the collection, you can pound the pavement confident that you’ve got on an A+ piece of performance gear.

Brooks Women’s HVAC Seamless Long Sleeve Shirt, $98 at brooksrunning.com
Go, go gadget, uh, long-sleeve shirt! Thanks to its thermoregulating HVAC technology, this super-smart long-sleeved top detects changes in body temperature and reacts by moving heat from high- to low-heat areas, so you stay “thermally balanced” (in other words, comfortable). Bonus points for the stripey design.

RoxyAthletix Medium Impact Support Bra, $38 at roxy.com
Hopefully you’ve got a six-pack midriff you’re dying to show off, because it’d be a shame for no one but you to see how fun this print-detailed sports bra is with its fashion-forward back cut-outs.

JACKETS

Brooks Women’s Motion Vest, $60 at brooksrunning.com
We know, it’s so cute—with its ribbed neck, wide ribbed waistband and funky quilted stitching—that it’s almost a shame you’ll be sweating in it. But please embrace its cuteness and slip into this butter-soft vest on a chilly fall evening.

RoxyAthletix Women’s Halftime Hoodie, $58 at roxy.com
The good news: You’re going to feel super stylin’ as you jog along the lake path in this hoodie. The bad news: You’re going to get stopped every half-mile by an admirer who’s desperate to know where you found it. Surprise! It’s an awesome new running line from surf company Roxy.

NBx Conduction Half-Zip, $75 at nbwebexpress.com
With a Chicago fall and winter coming up, runners will need some layering options. This New Balance jacket has X-STATIC fabric (which has a layer of silver in it) with antimicrobial, odor-eliminating and thermodynamic properties. It also has a music-friendly external storage pocket and 360 degree reflectivity, so you’ll be visible when listening to Born to Run.


Source: timeoutny

New Balance 811 Walking/Running Shoes For Men

New Balance is more or synonymous with the term "walking shoe" nowadays. While some companies like Nike and Reebok have a bit of the market share, New Balance is definitely the king here. There are good reasons for this as well. All of New Balance's products are made in the USA. This is a huge selling feature when you consider the fact that Nike and other companies outsource all their labor to offshore locations. So what is it that makes the 811's so great? It's all in the technology. There are two great pieces of technology in these shoes that other companies have been unable to replicate.

The first unique feature inside these shoes is what New Balance 811 calls the ROLLBAR Support System. You know how a roll bar in a SUV or pickup works? New Balance took this concept and applied to shoes to prevent runners and walkers from rolling their ankles. What you end up with is an extremely comfortable shoe that offers a ton of support for the lower leg. This prevent injuries and also allows for a more comfortable walking experience.

The second bit of technology in the New Balance 811's is Walking Strike Path. This was developed because many walkers have bad habits. New walkers, in particular, fail to establish proper walking technique and are more susceptible to injury because of it. The Walking Strike Path corrects gait and encourage solid walking techniques. This builds the right muscles and also decreases soreness in the walker.

New Balance 843 Walking Shoes Review

The New Balance 843 is a high end performance walking shoe featuring ABZORB® and ROLLBAR®. Not recommended for supinators. Colors: white + gray.

System Components & Benefits:
* 2 Density Strobel Sock: Provides rearfoot stability with forefoot flexibility.
* ABZORB in Heel and Forefoot: Provides maximum shock absorption.
* Full ABZORB Insert: Provides shock absorption & comfort.
* ROLLBAR and TPU Medial Post: Provides exceptional stability and pronation control.
* Stretch Eyerow: Provides a custom fit.
* Synthetic/Mesh Upper: Provides lightweight comfort and support.
* Walking Strike Path Outsole: Stabilizes the foot through the walking gait cycle.

Professional's Review for New Balance 843:

Don the Hiker Said: "Our favorite walking shoes..."
Pros: Attractive Design, Comfortable, Durable, Good Arch Support, Good Padding
Best Uses: Endurance Training, Great walking shoe, Pavement, Trails
Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational
Sizing: Feels true to size
Width: Feels true to width
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this New Balance 843 my friends
Comments: Comfort and support for long-distance hiking. This New Balance 843 is great.

Nutty Professor Said: "Good price and great shoe."
Pros: Comfortable, Durable
Best Uses: Pavement, Strength Training, Trails
Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational
Sizing: Feels true to size
Width: Feels true to width
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this New Balance 843 my friends
Comments: I use the New Balance 843 casually and they are a great product. Since the price was great so I bought two and am using both. Both fit well and are a good buy.

Udaya Said: "Great shoes for walking."
Pros: Comfortable, Good Padding, Light and hugs your feet
Best Uses: Power walking
Describe Yourself: Active & Fit
Sizing: Feels half size too small
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this New Balance 843 to a friend
Comments: i bought this New Balance 843 shoes 2 weeks ago and started using it right away for my daily walk of 40 mins. Feels great, very light and comfortable. Even after 40 mins of power walking, feet does not get tiered.

SunnyvaleJim Said: "Great Distance Walking Shoe"
Pros: Attractive Design, Comfortable, Durable, Good Padding, Pronation Support
Cons: none
Best Uses: Endurance Training, Pavement
Describe Yourself: Casual/ Recreational
Sizing: Feels true to size
Width: Feels true to width
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this New Balance 843 to a friend
Comments: I have also had an earlier model of this New Balance 843 shoe. Wears well, good shock absorption. OK for jogging. I have pretty flat feet, and the pronation support is great.

New Balance M1023WY and W1023WC Running Shoes

When New Balance has a shoe dialed in, it doesn't deviate from the recipe. That's the case with the 1023. New Balance reworked the upper pattern so the stitching won't cause any blister-inducing pressure on the forefoot, and the midsole is slightly lighter, but not so much that anyone will notice.

Recommended for: Efficient runners, and forefoot or midfoot-strikers with normal or high arches who want a cushioned, light ride.
Bottom line: The 1023 isn't a significant upgrade, but didn't need to be. The light, flexible 1022 worked fine and the minor upper changes New Balance made will only improve the fit.
Responsiveness: Moderate (good heel cushioning; flexible, responsive forefoot)
Cushioning: Moderate (Abzorb pads in rearfoot and forefoot)
Wear-test reports:

"For a neutral, cushioned shoe, the 1023 is very stable. It's light and responsive enough for me to use for tempo and interval workouts. My only complaint is it lacks heel cushioning." -Kristin Reves/San Diego "The 1023 works well for me on all surfaces and has good cushioning and support." -Robert Mcmasters/East Lansing "Nice shoe. I wore the 1022 as my primary shoe, and the 1023 is just as good." -Linda Pulver/East Lansing

Other's Review:

The 1022 was the best running shoe I have ever owned. I ran in it for 4-5 years and all though high school track seasons. I should have upgraded to the 1023 or the 1024, Im regretting it now!!!. by: Ty A, Cornelia GA,

I love this shoe. I started running in the 1022 when it came out and have since upgraded. I have also tried the 1060 and the Adidas audistar. This shoe provides cusion and support and keeps me from gettins shin spints and blisters!. by: Leo531, Novi, MI

Why You Should Consider New Balance Shoes

What is a good brand of shoes to consider when it comes to your comfort and performance? I have checked into a lot of shoe brands, and each offers a number of benefits as well as a claim to be the best. Then, of course, there are the numerous celebrity and athlete endorsers that preach the benefits of every shoe out there. There is, though, one brand of shoe you should consider on the merits of its engineering design and fit: New Balance Shoes. The engineering and technology that goes into the shoes produced by New Balance makes them worth a second look, but it isn’t like you would even need a second look.

New Balance shoes are comfortable athletic shoes with an emphasis placed on walking shoes. They are often recommended by podiatrists, but carry no endorsements. New Balance Shoes have an “endorsed by no one” policy. They would rather let their technology and feel act as the sales points for their shoes rather than a celebrity or athlete. They feel that you will know just how good their shoes are by taking a look at the reviews and listening to the feedback by word of mouth. Check out a customer review on any website or in any magazine and it will become apparent that New Balance shoes are the way to go. Also, by not paying celebrity or athlete endorsers, they save enough money that you will find their shoes very reasonably priced for the high level of performance and comfort you will get.

New Balance shoes are also available in several different styles, and each is specially designed by the company’s engineers to fulfill a specific need. There are shoes for motion control, extra support, and off road running to name just a few of the many. New Balance shoes also come as specific sports shoes, like basketball shoes and cross trainers for both men and women. Additionally, New Balance shoes come in a children’s shoe line that is very highly regarded as well.

Almost as important as the style available from New Balance shoes are the variety of sizes available. New Balance sheos are available for purchase in extended widths. That is an important feature, because you know that if you have wide feet you often have to order special custom shoes to meet your needs. New Balance just goes ahead and produces those shoes on a more mainstream basis so they are easier to find.

When you look for new shoes, functionality, comfort, and price are likely all factors in your decision. That is why you should at least consider New Balance shoes for your feet. They are offered in a number of style and with varying features for whatever you need out of an athletic shoe. New Balance shoes are also not endorsed by any highly paid celebrities or athletes, so they can afford to sell their shoes at a lower price. Finally, they are offered in extended widths if you are in need of such accommodations in a shoe. NO matter what the reason, you should certainly at least consider New Balance shoes for your next pair of sneakers.

This Article was shared by Christopher Luck.

The New Balance 991 Running Shoes For Women

New Balance makes a full line of running shoes for both men and women. One of their most popular running shoes for women is the 991. It has become an industry standard to the point where all running shoes are kind of starting to look like it! There are several things that make the 991 better than these imitation brands though. In the following text, we'll outline a few of these reasons.


First and foremost, the New Balance 991's are made in the USA. This is actually true of all of this company's products, but it's definitely worth mentioning. So many companies in this industry (Nike comes to mind first) outsource all their shoe making labor to the third world. This saves these companies a ton of money because the cost of living is so much lower in these countries. Unfortunately, it also means that shoes aren't of great quality. Stick to products made in America. They'll last longer and you'll run with less guilt on your conscious.

Another thing that makes the 991 running shoes for women stick out is the technology in this shoe. Only New Balance offers great features like lighting dry technology and a stability web. These features make sure that the shoe remains light, even when wet and also offers the heel extra support. This, in turn, prevent ankle and even knee injuries.

The last thing I'll mention about these shoes is you don't have to be a runner to benefit from them. If you do a lot of walking, try the 991's. The support and comfort that they offer is much better than similar shoes. They're even good for standing. If you've ever spent an entire day standing up, you know how important a good pair of shoes are.

Source: James Wikman

The New Balance Power Run, Raising HOPE on Sunday

The New Balance Power Run, Raising HOPE will be held on September 27 at the streets of Fort Bonifacio in Global City.

The event, which include a 3K Run/Walk for cancer and a 5K, 10K, and 21K races, will have some 6,000 entries answering the starting gun.

Runners may still register for the 3K event, with a few hundred slots left, at New Balance outlets in Glorietta, Shangri-La Mall, Festival Mall, Planet Sports Rockwell, and Planet Sports Trinoma.

The New Balance Power Run, Raising HOPE will directly support cancer awareness projects of Carewell (Cancer Resource and Wellness Community), Philippine Cancer Society, IcanServe Foundation, and Natasha Goulbourn Foundation.

New Balance English Half Marathon

The New Balance English Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 4 October 2009, and Warrington is where it all starts for this brand new ambitious event – The People’s Challenge.

As title sponsors, New Balance are working with us throughout the build up so look out for special offers on New Balance Performance range running shoes and kit – we’ll keep you up-to-date with developments in the weeks and months ahead.

As international class event organisers, we plan to deliver an event that Warrington can be proud of. We’ve called it the People’s Challenge because we want everyone involved. We want runners of all abilities – first timers (well it is the first one!), charity runners, club and elite. Take up the challenge!

Race Entries Closed

Entries for the 2009 New Balance English Half Marathon are now closed. Our elite nominated charities still have guaranteed places. If you would like to run please contact a charity of your choice listed on the Run for Charity page of the website. They would be delighted if you would run and help raise money for them.

New Balance 30% Discount Coupon Codes

All entrants to the New Balance English Half Marathon will receive via email or post a notification of their assigned Coupon Code. This code offers the runner a 30% discount and free shipping on a range of New Balance running shoes available through the NB Web Express website at www.nbwebexpress.co.uk.

Your coupon code offers 30% off selected NBx running shoes and free shipping, and is valid until the 4 October 2009. The offer is only valid with your coupon code and is good for one time use only. The offer is valid only on NBwebexpress.co.uk. The discount applies to these NBx men’s and women’s styles only: 1225, 1063, 769, 750, 850. The offer is valid on a maximum of three pairs per customer. The offer cannot be combined with other coupon codes or other offers and is not valid on previous purchases. Returns and exchanges are subject to discount reduction. Free shipping applies to shipping via UPS and DHL only.

During the checkout process on the NB Web Express website, just prior to entering payment details, the user will be prompted for any Promo Codes that they wish to apply to their purchases. Your own personal Coupon Code should be entered in the Promo Code space at this time. Your 30% discount will appear on your shopping cart total when you click the Continue button.

Johnsons Salon Discount Offer

The English Half Marathon has teamed up with Johnsons hairdressing salon to offer readers and entrants of the inaugural Half Marathon a discount on their hairdressing services at the local salons. To take advantage of this offer download the discount coupon from here.

Event Sponsor

New Balance is the title sponsor of the English Half Marathon.

New Balance has a unique approach to running, offering runners shoes in both widths and half sizes, ensuring optimum fit. All New Balance shoes are designed with a range of technologies ensuring runners find the right shoe for their foot type and performance requirements. All of this is done in the UK, where New Balance has been manufacturing since 1982. They also provide an extensive range of apparel, designed to meet specific training and running needs, for both winter and summer climates. For further information visit the website: www.newbalance.co.uk.

The Organisers

The event is organised by Big-Q Events Ltd, a joint venture between GB Event Management Ltd and Interloq Ltd. Together the companies have over 25 years experience managing a wide range of regional, national and international class events.

Official Event Timers

Interloq are Official Winning Time chip timing providers for this event.

Using the latest world class Winning Time technology, Interloq will provide timing services for the half marathon. Each entrant will wear an individual timing chip, which automatically records their finishing time. Look out for details in the race pack. Race results will be available via their website at www.winningtimeuk.com.

Official Race Photographer

Entrants will be able to purchase professional photographs of themselves via our official event photographers my-bib-number. They will have photographers positioned along the scenic stages of the run; try to give them a smile!

The company offer a unique service as you can view, purchase and take home a photograph on the day of the run. Simply enter your bib number into one of their viewing stations at the finish line to view and print your image. Race certificates will also be available, these include the race logo and your time displayed on your photograph. So remember to stop by before leaving and view your images.

The New Balance 910 ($129.99) & New Balance 70 ($80.00)

These two new innovations from New Balance possess unrivaled durability and comfort.

Outdoor enthusiasts would be wise to invest in a pair of New Balance 910 shoes due to the all-weather durability they possess and the amount of comfort that they provide your feet with. New Balance incorporated several crucial technical elements into the design of the 910, including the Compression Molded EVA Midsole, Fiberglass Shank, Glove Leather Covered Removable Insert and TRU-TRAK Outsole.

New Balance’s Dryworks waterproof moisture management system helps to guarantee that your shoes will remain durable throughout any condition. Regardless of what your favorite outdoor activity may be, the New Balance 910 is an essential shoe for rugged individuals who demand unparalleled stability, firm support and superior performance. The New Balance 910, which is available for purchase wherever quality footwear is sold, retails for $129.99.

As the most high profile pair of shoes within New Balance’s eco-preferred line, the New Balance 70 retails for just $80.00 and it provides tremendous comfort as well as noticeable arch support. Lightweight and stylish, the New Balance 70 sets the bar for all future variations within the eco-preferred collection. They possess great versatility since they are optimal for everyday use as well as for those with physically active lifestyles.

The New Balance 70 was constructed with components of recycled materials and synthetics, which is the reason behind the fact that these shoes can be described as eco-conscious.

New Balance 910 Product Details

• GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort Footwear offers advanced waterproof protection and durability with optimized climate comfort.
• Ortholite® foam insert delivers long term comfort, breathability, and anti-microbial function to fight odor
• Synthetic/Mesh upper provides lightweight comfort and support
• Dual Density Collar uses both a softer density foam against the foot for cushioning, and a firmer density foam for support
• Gusseted Tongue fully attached to shoe keeps debris out
• Sure Lace™ secure shoe laces provide added midfoot support and keep the shoe snug around the foot
• Toe Protect™ rubber compound provides reinforcement and protects against the elements
• N-Durance® rubber compound for maximum outsole durability
• N-LOCK® external support system ensures shoe is pulled snugly around your midfoot
• Aggressive Lugged Outsole gives maximum traction for off-road activities
• Rock Stop® embedded into forefoot provides protection from sharp rocks and debris
• Entire midsole made of Abzorb FL Antifreeze, providing premium all-weather cushioning
• Color: Gray with Orange
• Shoe Weight: 420 grams (14.8 oz)
• Shoe Last: PL-1

New Balance 070 Product Details

• C-CAP® midsole provides cushioning and support
• Reduced Waste Design for an eco-friendly shoe
• Upper: Natural and Recycled Components
• Outsole: Rice Husk Rubber
• Insert: Recycled Materials
• Synthetics on shoe are made from recycled materials
• Reduced Impact Synthetics
• Water Based Adhesives
• Color: Green & Gray
• Shoe Weight: 245 grams (8.6 ounces)
• Shoe Last: RL-3

Amazing Runner Passes through Illinois Valley

Saturday, September 19, 2009 By Craig Sterrett

Reza Baluchi, a former bicycle racer, mechanic and cook, gets ready to run another 80 miles in a day carrying a U.S. flag on his Liberty Run for Unicef, with help from a camera crew following his journey.

A 36-year-old adventurer stays a step ahead, actually miles and days ahead, of all the other transcontinental travelers who pass through the Illinois Valley each summer.

Reza Baluchi, a former bicycle racer, is running, wearing out shoes and pressing on despite painful foot blisters and scabbed toenails in an effort to break a 30-year-old record for running from coast to coast.

Waiting to start his day and waiting for his support team and film crew to deliver a 1,000-calorie, green, vegetable-and-vitamin-energy-drink breakfast, Baluchi visited with coffee drinkers and this reporter Friday morning before starting an 80-mile leg from the Shell station in Utica to Chicago.

“We’re amazed at him every day,” said Jasmin Doma, a photographer following the Boulder, Colo., man and shooting still images while traveling with a support team and Castleland Productions video crew on his trek.

In addition to his ability to run 80 miles in a day, amazing facts about Baluchi include his resting heart rate of 38 beats per minute. He says he has completed the most difficult parts of his trek, including mountains of the West and horribly hot pavement in Arizona and Nevada that caused blisters on the tops of his feet (his calluses protect the bottoms of his feet).

He said his 15,000-calorie diet full of pasta, beans, eggs, fruits and vegetables (“Meat makes you tired.”) helps fuel him, but that’s not all that energizes him. He said he will resume eating meat when he concludes the journey, to help restore tissues.

“Eighty-five percent is your mind,” says Baluchi, a U.S. citizen who was born in Iran.

Also compelling him to run nearly three marathons per day is his charity drive for the Unicef United States Fund. He is trying to raise $1 million this year while also working to break the record of 46 days for the journey. On Friday, he felt like he might be able to make it to New York City in 43 days, but he’d settle for 45 and a chance to meet President Barack Obama.

Since the other record has been tough to beat, he guesses if he sets his record, “Nobody can do it. I’m sometimes running all night,” he said.

He is sponsored by , and he’s doing them proud — even if he does immediately cut a hole in each new left shoe to ease pressure on his left, little toe. He runs against traffic and has discovered the crown of the highways puts extra weight on his left foot. When he cuts the hole, it eases strain on his knee.

“You run enough, you try things,” he said.

He’s getting support from several parties, including a doctor in the Non-Profit Chiropractic Organization who pays for food, fuel for a recreational vehicle and truck and more. He also benefits from occasional chiropractic adjustments and massages daily.
He said he has enjoyed meeting people and seeing the country while carrying a U.S. flag as well as toting a folded flag protected in a plastic case for delivery to New York.

He also has enjoyed some company on the trek. Friday, Davenport, Iowa chiropractic student Gabe Ellis ran along with him to experience part of the journey on U.S. 6, then north to U.S. 52 in Waltham Township and over to Chicago. And previously, a lost or stray dog that startled him, gnawed on his arm and leapt on his back later accompanied him for two days and a night before someone retrieved the retriever.

Next year he plans to start a five-year journey around the world, through 90 countries, raising funds for a charity in each nation. He said a crew for Discovery Channel will follow the journey, including his crossing of oceans in a pedal-powered watercraft he designed.

New Balance Woos the Sneakerheads

In an attempt to solidify its standing with influential sneaker bloggers, New Balance Lifestyle has launched a campaign around a limited release—just 480—of the company's 574 Clips running shoe.

The campaign, the first from Mother since winning the New Balance Lifestyle account last August (BBDO, New York, handles the brand's other work), includes a Polaroid in each of the 480 shoes with a 5-digit code on the back that buyers can use to "claim" their shoe online. The individual attention is meant to underscore the unusual, all-American lineage of the shoes: Each are composed of leftover material clippings in New Balance's Lawrence, Mass., factory, (hence "Clips.")

The 574 Clips will sell for $75, so the goal is not so much related to revenues from the line, but to creating a positive buzz among sneaker bloggers or "sneakerheads" as they're known in the industry. "They're vastly important for us because of the influence they have over the broader marketplace," said Taylor Duffy, integrated marketing manager for New Balance's Lifestyle. Duffy said that such sneakerheads have become much more influential over the past three years or so.

One of the industry's biggest sneakerheads, Matt Halfhill, founder of the NiceKicks.com, which gets 2 million hits a month, said that there's a ruboff effect among consumers when hardcore fans like himself give a sneaker the nod. "I think we are tastemakers at times," he said. "What we say might catch on. Sometimes people look to the blogs for opinion about the shoe and read the comments closely."

Only a sneakerhead is likely to fully appreciate Mother's campaign, which invites buyers of the shoes to go to a 574 Clips Web site where they can find the video clip of their shoe and then claim it by entering a 5-digit code on the back of a Polaroid that comes with their shoe. Afterwards, that consumer is invited to share that information with friends via Tumblr, MySpace, Delicious and Facebook links. The clips shoes doing things like riding a roller coaster or even being chased by a zebra.

The viral media component is designed to let the buzz linger long after the shoes have sold out, said Kristina Helb, a New Balance Lifestyle rep.
New Balance began repositioning its Lifestyle category about a year ago. The idea, similar to Adidas' Originals line, was to recycle New Balance's older running shoes, which have become hip in certain circles. After Mother was brought on board last year, the agency launched a research project called "The Mother Study," that identified New Balance's brand essence and its audience, including those influential bloggers.

Source: Todd Wasserman

Running Almost Barefoot

By Gaia Remerowski on September 4, 2009 10:26 AM

When WGBH, NOVA's parent PBS company moved locations, our new home (in Brighton, MA) just happened to be next to the offices of the New Balance shoe company. And they just happen to have a store in the building adjacent to ours. So whenever I pass the store, it often brings running to mind.

Which leads me to my current post - Not too long ago I bought a pair of running shoes. They are quite snazzy - with powder blue trim and futuristic looking mesh over the toes. But they don't come close to some other running shoes I recently came across - the Vibram FiveFingers. A cross between a gorilla's foot and a waterproof slipper, the shoes are meant to mimic the act of running barefoot. Check out a demo video from Wired:

Sounds a little strange, but there is some science to back up the idea that running without shoes could actually prevent more injuries than it sounds like it would cause.
Barely more than a rubber sole and thin material that wraps around each individual toe, the shoes fit like a glove would - on your foot. They are called Five'Fingers' because of a 'lost in translation' moment. Vibram is an Italian company and the Italians' have the same word for fingers as toes. When the name was translated as Five Fingers, American marketers thought it sounded cool and it stuck.

So why run barefoot (or as close as possible to barefoot)? It turns out those snazzy running shoes I bought prevent my feet from truly feeling the ground and that makes my foot hit that ground in an unnatural way. The heel in running shoes is very built up to cushion us from the impact of running. Since our heels are so well-protected, we tend to hit the ground heel first. But a shoe can only absorb so much impact and your leg absorbs the rest, which can lead to injury.

When you run barefoot, your natural tendency is to hit the ground towards the middle of your foot - around the arch area. Your arch acts like a spring by flattening out as you hit the ground to absorb the impact and then rebounding as you push back off the ground.
Basically by running barefoot, you're running the way nature intended. And if you wear Vibram FiveFingers on your runs, if nothing else, you'll certainly turn some heads as you fly by in these crazy looking shoes.