From: dvfreese@freese.aix.kingston.ibm.com (Doug Freese)
Subject: Re: shoe suggestions wanted
Date: Thu, 31 Dec 92 22:40:07 GMT
Organization: IBM Corp. Kingston NY

In article <1992Dec30.205239.11220@mcs.kent.edu> sscott@mcs.kent.edu (Stephen Scott) writes:
>I am in the market for an alternative shoe to the Asics GT and GT cool. 
>Specifically I am concerned over forefoot cushioning as I have metatarsal
>damage due to years of racing in spikes.
>
>Presently I use the Asics GT cool (the one with the silver stripes and
>purple leather).  Inside these I use an insole with sorbothane in the
>metatarsal and heal areas only.  I don't recall the model or manufacturer
>of the insole but they are made by a company in Twinnsburg OH.  This
>combination seems to work for me.
>
>The reason for a shoe change is twofold.  1. I don't like to rely on one
>manufacturer as just as I get comfortable with a shoe they change it.  2.
>I have found that when doing high milage or multiple workouts in a day
>that using two different models of shoes will help prevent injuries. (in
>me anyway)
>

I'm also looking for a replacement for the Cool X - mostly because I'm 
upset that they are following in the way of Nike and not selling to 
mail order. (I'll refrain from a nasty dialog on Asics greed).  

Road Runner put out a nice shoe comparison chart mapping the Asics models 
across all the other brands.  At least it is a place to start looking 
and asking questions.  I have no association with Road Runner but have 
had excellent service, including returns and solid answers to general 
questions.  Call 1-800-435-3696(Asics to brand x chart questions) or 
1-800-551-5558(general anything).          

>My specifics are the following: 5'11" and 150 lbs (20 lbs of "thesis" fat
>- going back down I hope - don't we all) I generally run between 50 and
>80 miles per week with 2 speed workouts on the track - repeat 800s and
>miles (I use racing flats for this).  My road training speeds vary from
>5:30 to 7 minutes per mile.  I consider my stride to be somewhat of a
>midfoot stride - thus metatarsal cushioning is vital.
>
>I dislike a very soft heel - so most nike air shoes are out.  They (nike
>air) feel like running on an inflatable raft in the heel and a rock for
>the forefoot - too unstable for my tastes.
>
>I would appreciate any comments from others regarding their likes and
>dislikes in shoes.  Some of the new Addidas and Saucony shoes look
>promising - any comments?
>
The chart shows the following:
  NB 1500
  Saucony 9000
  Addidas Equipment Cushion 
  Brooks Chariot PPS
  Etonic Air Pro II

I know nothing about any of the above but personally, I'm going to try 
the Saucony 9000(nice clean cut Maine folks).  

>Thanks in advance,  Stephen Scott.
>email:  sscott@mcs.kent.edu
>
>ps.  I've only run a 4:11 mile - so I'm not THE Steve Scott of 70's
>     and 80's Mile fame.  Of course I have been told that I am better 
>     looking.....  by my wife.... :)


Maybe we should get your autograph now befor you shead the extra pounds 
and start running sub 4 minute miles :-).   Good luck!
-- 
--------The race is not to the swift but to those who keep on running -----
Doug Freese                 (The views expressed here are entirely mine)     
I.B.M. Corp.                email: dvfreese@donald.aix.kingston.ibm.com 
Neighborhood Rd. Kingston N.Y. 12401 
From: lbrodie@hpscit.sc.hp.com (Les Brodie)
Date: Tue, 22 Dec 1992 00:02:39 GMT
Subject: Re: Pain in hamsting
Organization: Hewlett-Packard, Santa Clara, CA