New Balance M8505 Running Shoe : Cool and Comfy

Back when I was running marathons, fifteen years ago, I wore many pairs of New Balance. NB had made its reputation as a well-made, durable shoe, ideally suited for heavier runners.   At 6'4" and 190 lbs, I qualified as a heavier runner, and my NBs served me well through five marathons and plenty of shorter road races. They were springy and comfortable, and in those days, that was all we asked of running shoes (or, as some people called them, "joggers").  

That was then; this is now. Image might not be everything, but these days you ignore it at your peril. The moment I lifted my size 13 M8505s from the box I smiled that sport-shoe addict "Oh, yeah" smile because, well, they were so sweet.   Not ostentatious or flashy, just cool.

The 8505s come in 11 different color combos (6 in the women's model). On mine, black stripes lurk beneath a white synthetic mesh upper like a crouching tiger, or maybe a fleeing zebra. The corrugated lime green soles are designed to provide optimal shock absorption in the heel, and add to the visual sense of forward motion. Cool on cool.

Designed for a runner with a neutral gait, the 8505s are ideal both for a three-time-a-week runner or someone training for a marathon. They've got the right amount of cushioning, they're comfortable, and still lightweight. They're New Balance, so I know they'll be extremely durable. Luckily, some things never change.

Available in men's and women's sizes, a variety of color schemes, and two different widths (D and 2E for men; B and D for women.)

Bottom Line: Built with lightweight, synthetic leather and mesh, this durable, shock-absorbing shoe is ideal for runners aiming on logging mile after comfortable mile.--J.G. (May '07)

Price: $84.95

BUY ONLINE : ,

Manufacturer's Site: www.newbalance.com

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