By Sheila McCullough; Owner, Fleet Feet Sports - Greenville
How many times have you tried to get the same running shoe that you've loved for years, only to discover it has been replaced with a "newer, better" model? Or, even better, it has been dropped from the line all together! Have you ever wondered why a brand that has never worked for you suddenly feels pretty good? It has to do with the fact that these are not just running shoes you are buying, they are patented creations of a particular designer.
Some patented features stay with the manufacturer - like Nike's waffle outsole design and Asics' GEL - but most running shoe designs stay with the designer. So, while some features remain the same, the designs may show up with another brand.
The world of running shoes is smaller than you might think. Just like in any other industry, the designers and engineers are not above jumping ship if they believe another shoe company is going to be a better fit or makes them a better deal.
It is very possible that the new Brooks shoe you love was designed by the same person who made that Nike shoe you loved five years ago. That may also be why Nike no longer makes that shoe. That is precisely why it is important to keep an open "brand" mind when purchasing your next pair of kicks!
It's not just the shoes and designs either. As you've been running for the last year, the last 15 years, do you think your foot has changed? Look at the rest of your body. Has it changed over those same years? Your feet, gait and needs change over time, so even seasoned,been-there-done-that runners should still get their feet measured on a regular basis. It is equally important to try every pair of shoes on that you purchase.
Something else to consider - the factory where your last shoes were produced may not be the same factory that is producing the shoes you are wishing to buy. Even if it is the same shoe and the same brand!
Running shoe manufacturers are getting better. I ran in shoes in the late '70s that I wouldn't let my dog run in now! The change in great product is very slight, and doesn't typically take place but every 12 to18 months. You will find that year to year, factory to factory, designer to designer, the evolution of the running shoe has come a long and positive way. Most every shoe brand has put a tremendous amount of money, time and resources into the research and development of their line.
Keep these factors in mind the next time you're buying shoes - even if they're "the same shoes you've always worn." Change is the only thing constant when it comes to your running shoes!
