ThisNext

These nimble shoes have superior cushioning -- a boon if you run on hardpacked trails and fire roads -- and a thin plastic insert in the midsole to keep feet stable.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

adidas
supernova riot
TN Nano
trail running

Comment

This is:

Although it looks just like a running shoe, the Intensity performs well off the treadmill too. A very breathable large-gauge mesh upper eliminates the hot-foot feeling on cardio machines. When dancing on studio floors, the soles offer traction without suction.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Asics Gel-Trabuco 11

First to recommend

Description

These light pavement-to-dirt shoes offer a lot of arch support. The double-layer mesh upper resists tears from twigs and rocks while providing excellent ventilation.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Etonic Jepara 2 SC

First to recommend

Description

This cushioned ride has firm foam in the midsole to reduce rolling and deep grooves in the sole that help it flex.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

etonic
jepara 2 sc
running
TN Nano

Comment

This is:

Brooks Axiom 3

First to recommend

Description

With no pinching or binding, these light shoes fit perfectly on the first run. The midsole's foam feels supportive and the outsole provides great traction that grabs the pavement. Large-gauge mesh on the upper prevents feet from overheating.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Keen Ridgeline

First to recommend

Description

A flexible plastic plate in the midsole and an oversize toe bumper make feet feel impervious to rocks, Plus, the outsole's thick, multidirectional lugs provide rainy day runners with plenty of traction.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Merrell CT Marquis

First to recommend

Description

Two foam inserts in the midsole provide amazing stability. Ample cushioning makes the Marquis feel downright springy. The footbed and upper contain a heat-controlling substance that keeps feet cool even when the pavement's hot.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

ct marquis
merrell
running
TN Nano

Comment

This is:

Nike Air Pegasus + 25

First to recommend

Description

The superlight, flexible sole helps runners get up on their toes and turn on the speed. These shoes feel supportive, but they're not at all stiff.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Nike Shox Walk+

First to recommend

Description

This stylish shoe feels cushiony thanks to its five impact-absorbing coils under the heel and a soft forefoot pad.

Updated Oct 6, 2008

For people who like:

Comment

This is:

Reebok Hex Ride Rally II

First to recommend

Description

More than 30 plastic pods in each sole absorb shock really well -- so well you can even run in these shoes. When you switch to strength training, the extra padding around ankles provides plenty of support.

Updated Oct 6, 2008