Why I Love Mizuno Running Shoes

As a novice runner at best, I need a shoe that will offer support and comfort as well as keep me from falling on my face. The Mizuno Wave achieved this beautifully. What sets the Mizuno Wave apart from other running shoes is the aptly named Wave technology. This consists of a piece of undulated or "wavy" plastic material that runs the length of the mid-sole. It provides shock absorption and bounce while giving structure and stability to the shoe. All good things.

To be more specific, I own the Mizuno Wave Rider 14, the latest addition to the Mizuno Wave family. What sets the Mizuno Wave Rider 14 apart from older versions of the shoe is the Dynamotion Fit. It consists of the padding and fabric surrounding the heel cup. In essence, this helps keep your foot in place in the shoe while running, helping keep the heel from coming out of the shoe which can sometimes cause blisters, and those are never fun. It has a well-ventilated mesh upper, which keeps your foot nice and cool while running for long periods of time. However, the mesh makes this shoe less than ideal when running in the rain or snow.

Another positive for the Mizuno Wave Rider 14 is that is it an ounce lighter than the previous model, which is a big deal for avid runners. It seems to make a big difference for me as well, though I do not train nearly as hard as some of my friends. Some fellow runners have complained that the toe box is narrower than in other models, so if you have wide feet, you may want to look out for that. I find these shoes fit me perfectly, but to each his, or her, own.

The soles are thick and sturdy and should stand the test of time. Another positive is that the price is very reasonable when comparing them to other running shoes of their caliber. They offer comfort, durability, support and traction at a lower price than its competitors. You would be hard-pressed to find a running shoe of this quality for a better price.

I have seen a big difference in my endurance since I started running in this shoe. My feet do not hurt like they used to, and I can run faster, further and longer than with my previous pair. I have lost eight pounds since buying my Mizunos. They just make running more fun.

My LOVE of Vibram

I love to walk. For errands or for pleasure walking is my preferred mode of transportation. 

Shoes often leave my feet feeling tired and sore at the end of the day. Not even the most expensive shoes on the market solved this problem. No matter how well a pair of shoes fit, my feet were still sore, aching and dying to get out of them the minute I arrived home. 

I didn’t think there was a perfect to solution to finding a comfortable pair of shoes that left my feet feeling great. Then one day I noticed someone wearing a pair of Vibram 5 fingers. He initially purchased them for running but they felt so wonderful that he wore them everywhere. 

They were definitely weird looking but I was ready to try anything. Curious, I decided to get a pair of these Five Finger Vibram shoes. 

It was a revelation.

My life changed the moment I slipped my first pair of Five finger Vibrams on. 

I wear them constantly, on my daily walks and at work as well. These have been the best shoes I have ever owned—hands down. Vibram 5 fingers feel like I have on nothing at all. At the end of the day my feet are no longer sore. The moment I arrive home I am not looking to kick off my shoes to let my feet relax; sometimes I even forget that I have them on. 

My feet are no longer forced to adapt to the shape of whatever shoe I decide to wear for the day. Vibram 5 fingers are the comfort equivalent of being barefoot. The design of the five fingers Vibram shoes allows your feet to move naturally. This is healthier for your feet, and actually your entire body. The lower back pain that I often experience after being on my feet disappeared completely after just a week of wearing these shoes. Think of all the pressure you place on your feet everyday just by moving around. Now add to that the fact that you are forcing them to support your weight while at the same time being forced to conform to the shape of your shoe. Five fingers Vibram shoes eliminate this problem because they form to the shape of your foot. 

Why not make your shoe conform to you? 

Saucony Running Shoes

I made a concentrated effort to identify a running shoe which afforded comfort, stability, and superior craftsmanship; it didn’t take long before my search was narrowed to a few brands. A little more searching and Saucony was quickly leading the pack. Providing superior performance coupled with innovative technology, the Saucony brand excels in meeting the distinct needs of the seasoned athlete as well as meeting the needs of someone like me—someone who runs for pleasure and needs above-average foot support. There are two specific running shoes that caught my eye, the Saucony Kinvara and the Saucony ProGrid Kinvara.



The Saucony Kinvara grabbed my attention first because the midsole, outsole and heel drop visually appear to complement and enhance the running shoe, creating a sturdy attractiveness. Once I tried the running shoe on, everything felt so comfortable; I was thrilled with the versatility and flexibility all while having my feet feel securely nestled, not overly padded nor elevated but just right. I couldn't wait to check the traction on an outdoor course with this lightweight running shoe. I really liked the simplicity of color choice; white/blue or white/purple.



When deciding between the two, with the second type being the Saucony ProGrid Kinvara, I was glad to see that this running shoe offered virtually the same features as the Kinvara, with the difference being a visibly slight change in the heel-to-toe drop which would ultimately help with overall running form. So I tried them on and really appreciated the flexibility and comfort. Although they are considered a minimalist running shoe, I think this would be adequate for what I would need for my non-competitive running. I have a bad knee and can't wait to see how they hold up overall with support and functionality. There are a variety of color choices that complement the white which include blue, pink, purple, green or blue/navy, turquoise/black; other colors are hot pink, black, silver/grey/blue.

With color not being a main factor (as I knew from the beginning I wanted white/purple) I needed to decide between the two styles and what looked and felt right for me. With this being said, I decided on the first running shoe, the Kinvara. Making non-competitive runs under a mile, feel they offer everything I need and am so excited to give them a run while maintaining my feet.

What Makes Asics Golf Shoes Great

If there was a superstar of the running shoe arena it would be Asics. They are beloved. And as of last November, they offer Asics golf shoes. They have taken some of their key technical features from their running shoes and adapted them for the golf shoes. According to people who wear them the extended trusstic contours the heel and offer more support under heel and arch which reduces fatigue and enhances foot stability during the swing.

Other features:

• waterproof inner lining
•  reinforced sockliner
•  hidden lacing system for a snugger fit
•  replaceable Champ Scorpion Stinger Spikes

Asics GEL-Ace™ for men and women are the superstars of this line. Remember Shingo Katayama, the Japanese golfer in the cowboy hat? He wore a prototype of the Asics Gel-ACE golf shoe when he placed fourth in the 2009 Masters.

"I am proud to wear ASICS golf shoes, and believe the shoes make me a better player,” says Shingo Katayama, professional golfer. “They have great fit and style and I’m less tired after several rounds.”

Do Asics running shoes fit the same as Asics golf shoes?


This is a fantastic question. Asics golf shoes actually run about 1/4 size longer than their running shoes. However, if you have wide feet you can probably stay in the same size width as you wear for running. But, if you have a narrow foot than you might want to try a half size smaller. As far as I know, the standard width is the same in both running and golf shoes.


What about golf spikes?

Asics golf shoes have replaceable spikes. This shoe takes the Champ Scorpion Stinger Spikes.

When you have one of the best running shoe companies, there is extra pressure to be the best when it comes to all other athletic shoes. Don't worry, Asics is totally rising to the challenge. Asics is using their patented alpha gel which disperses and balances your weight and reduces the load on your legs.

If you need extra reinforcement consider the Asics Gel-Ace Top. Otherwise, the Asics Gel-Ace Tour is a wise choice.

Saucony ProGrid Cortana: Great Updates, Lower Price

In this review of Saucony ProGrid Cortana running shoes we will be going over the Saucony ProGrid Cortana women's, Saucony ProGrid Cortana men's, and doing a full line of Saucony ProGrid Cortana reviews. With the new launch of the Saucony ProGrid Cortana women's lines the shoe has been made sleeker and with a more modern look. Along with the thinning of the rubber sole for a more natural glide when on the move. Surprisingly, with all of these updates, the new model is also cheaper than older models.

The Saucony ProGrid Cortana men's had a lot of the same updates as the Saucony ProGrid Cortana women's. With a sleeker design and a more modern look this shoes looks nothing like the older models, they are far superior. With the new model of Saucony ProGrid Cortana men's shoes they have also reduced the impact in the sole for a more natural feel when running long distances. Nothing is left out in this update of the Saucony ProGrid Cortana running shoes.

One major stride that I would like to point out in this review that is often left out in other Saucony ProGrid Cortana reviews is the reduced price on all models of this shoe. With the launch of the new product the price has been slashed drastically. Now even those on a tight budget can enjoy the use and pleasure of the Saucony ProGrid Cortana running shoes. With a sleeker fit, modern look, and affordable price tag these shoes will bring joy back into any active lifestyle.

These shoes can be used for a range of activities from running to hiking you'll always be pleased with the performance and durability of these shoes. Along with the new sole that applies the 4mm heel-to-toe drop and lightweight concept from older models this shoe is perfect mix of flexibility, and sustained modern comfort for the life of the shoe.

Nike Air Uptempo 1996

Today we go way back to the 90’s, 1996 to be precise. This was the Jordan era of basketball with the red hot Chicago Bulls. But let’s not leave out his swingman and the Bulls number 2 go to man, Scottie Pippen. In honor of Scottie Pippen we take a look at the unforgettable and readily available Nike Air Uptempo basketball shoes. 

With the big “AIR” going across the shoes it comes off a little flashy, but nonetheless these shoes are comfortable.  They protected your ankles from quick cuts and gave you enough cushioning when going up for a rebound.  But if you’re not wearing these for basketball then these could be considered a fashion statement if you’re wearing the right outfit. 

Overall these are great shoes for both on and off the court.  You get a comfortable shoe with a retro look.

Saucony ProGrid Ride 4 Running Shoes Offer Big Improvements

The Saucony ProGrid Ride 4 is unquestionably an improvement over its generational predecessors. In fact, after reading multiple reviews of Saucony ProGrid running shoes, I'm realizing that they have always been positive—which probably accounts for their years of loyal fans. Now, with a few tweaks in just the right spots, dramatic improvements are promoting a whole new generation of Saucony ProGrid Ride runners.

As a lightweight everyday trainer for neutral runners, the Saucony ProGrid Ride 4 is a dependable long distance shoe. Fans of the Ride shoes have always liked the support and breathability of this series but weight has always been a mild point of contention and the source of a few complaints. The developers at Saucony were able to turn customers’ feedback into a reality by shedding much of the weight without sacrificing the shoes reputation for stability. Now, reviews of Saucony ProGrid running shoes are confirming that this new generation of trainer has successfully become one of the lightest in its class while retaining all the attributes runners love.

The new found lightness of the Saucony ProGrid running shoes is due to the blown rubber outsole which maintains the same shock absorbent qualities as before but at a fraction of the weight. Some have remarked that this shoe’s weight feels very much like a race shoe, but the cushioning is still perfect for those long weekly miles.

Other improvements include the addition of a new more comfortable lining in the collar and tongue area. Previous versions of the Saucony ProGrid running shoes required sacrificing comfort in the top lining to allow for the firmer support weight in the sole. By lightening the sole, there was weight to spare, so Saucony added a more comfortable and faster wicking anti-microbial lining that is thicker at the tongue and collar. With feet being able to stay dryer, that means fewer odors (great for you and everyone in the locker room) and more comfort while running.

Overall, the Saucony ProGrid Ride reviews very well. The cornerstone of this shoe's success is still the ProGrid system that allows the heel to absorb and dissipate heel impact. With sizes available for both men and women, this shoe is still a crowd favorite.

Review of the Brooks Ghost 4

A review of Brooks Ghost 4 running shoes is an endeavor to decipher things like "DNA Technology" and the caterpillar-crash-pad. The Brooks Ghost 4 has improvements in design over the Ghost 3, but how does the newly configured technology make a difference for all runners?

This Brooks Ghost 4 review takes us first to the DNA technology located in the shoes’ cushion system. This signature Brooks' innovation is a revolutionized way of manufacturing a shoe sole. "DNA Technology" actually allows the shoe's cushioning material to change its density in direct response to the stress of impact being applied by the foot because it is made of a non-Newtonian chemical composition. In other words, the shoe can actually become harder or softer based on the amount of force in each step. This shoe provides a soft comfortable surface for walking, but when you need the shoe to be firmer and stiffer for running this shoe gives it to you automatically. That is a benefit to every level of runner.

Immediate adaptability to a variety of surface conditions and speeds is the hallmark of a good shoe. Runners train to make their legs highly responsive and Brooks has tried to include technology that keeps up. This is the thinking behind the new caterpillar-crash-pad included in the Brooks Ghost 4. Instead of being a solid sole, the caterpillar design is part of Brooks' improvement to allow for a smoother ride through any style of pronation while maintaining flexibility that allows for your foot's natural muscle structure to be more road responsive. With such an abundance of personalizing technology, this Brooks Ghost 4 review would be remiss if we did not discuss the Ghost 4's price.

Brooks Ghost running shoes have built a legacy on innovation and affordability. This latest addition to the Brooks Ghost running shoes lineage packs amazing technological advancements into a product that is still under the $100 mark. The chance to write a review of Brooks Ghost 4 running shoes has helped me recognize Brooks' competitive amount of technology, comparable to other industry leaders, packed into such an affordable product.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11

Looking for a balanced and comfortable running shoe? The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11 is often a top pick.

Brooks Adrenaline running shoes for men and women are known for their extreme comfort. In 2010, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10 won the running shoe Best Update award. Even with this great update, Brooks kept everything that the public wanted. They took what already worked, and simply expanded upon it.  

Brooks enhanced all the positive aspects of their Adrenaline running shoe line to make them even more popular. Since not everyone is alike in stride and comfort, the company added patent-pending DNA in the heel and forefoot of every shoe. The cushion in each shoe, and how these shoes respond to each individual person, surpasses any other running shoe found in the current market.

They also added an adjustable stitch lacing to each shoe for a customized individual fit. In November of 2010, Runner's World did a Brooks Adrenaline review and gave the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 11 the Best Update award for the second time.

Runner's World reviews of Brooks running shoes finds these running shoes to be lightweight and stable with more security at the back of the foot and more comfort in the underfoot (they added more gel to cushion running impact). Brooks claims that each year it will continue to update the Brooks Adrenaline running shoes and push onward towards another Best Update award.  This will be the third time in a row.

If you want the best, get a pair of Brooks Running shoes. You will be glad that you gave your feet the attention that they need. You will not be disappointed in the comfort and style you will find with each pair of Brooks' running shoes.

Mizuno Wave Alchemy 11

Mizuno Wave running shoes are engineered to give runners the best performance possible from their shoes.

The Mizuno Wave Alchemy 11 is specifically designed to help people who pronate their feet when running. This means the runner tends to turn the sole of their foot outward and their weight is mostly placed on the inner edge of their foot when standing. The Wave Alchemy 11 also works to decrease the fast deceleration and acceleration of the foot when running. This process helps the shoe provide the smoothest ride possible from a running shoe.

Mizuno Wave running shoes are engineered to help the forces of impact be directed away from the foot and the airmesh fabric helps maintain breathability. Mizuno Wave Alchemy 11 shoes are made for both men and women and Mizuno Wave Alchemy reviews are very high.

When I checked several different running shoe websites, I did not find any flat out negative reviews of Mizuno Wave Alchemy shoes. One review of Mizuno Wave alchemy shoes states they are the overall best running shoe that person has tried and there are many more reviews like this one. Generally speaking Mizuno Wave Alchemy reviews are higher than the ratings I have seen for other running shoes. People who purchased Mizuno Wave running shoes seem to be genuinely happy with the performance of the shoe and most mention that they would in fact recommend this shoe to others. The average overall Mizuno Wave Alchemy reviews were about 4.5-5 out of 6 starts with many wearers claiming the Mizuno Wave Alchemy 11 is a perfect running shoe for people who pronate their feet.

The Mizuno Wave line of running shoes have many different versions for both men and women but I have found them all to be rated by consumers as a superior running shoe. Even reviewers who run on many different terrains rate Mizuno running shoes high—from asphalt, to grass, through mud and even snow, wearers of these shoes attest to its supreme performance and comfort.

Many reviewers also went on to discuss the lack of discomfort while running as well as the absence of pain when they are finished with their run.