Training Shoes
Training Shoes
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US $7.99
The Need For Shoes in Sport
Barefoot training is currenlty popular, here is Dr Mel Siff’s take on the topic of should we train with shoes?
In view of all the comments on the use of shoes in sport, here are some
extracts from our “Supertraining” book (Siff & Verkhoshansky 1999 Ch 
that
are relevant to the discussion.
Later I have provided a collection of websites that will also shed some more
light on this issue.
SHOES AND SAFETY
Shoe manufacturers would have athletes believe that the primary solution to
most athletic injuries is the wearing of expensive footwear. Ailments such as
shin splints, iliotibial band syndrome and peripatellar pain are attributed
variously to excessive shock loading of the limbs, pronation or supination.
Research, however, reveals that fewer injuries occur among those who wear
thin soled shoes and that current athletic footwear may even be injurious
(Robbins et al, 1988). The paradoxical observation of a much lower incidence
of running injuries reported in barefoot populations implies that modern
running shoes may produce injuries that normally would not occur without
their use (Robbins & Hanna, 1987). Furthermore, running shoes seem to be
associated with fewer injuries in fitness classes than so-called ‘aerobics
shoes’. Nigg (1986) reports that, on firm shock absorbing mats, the
difference in heel strike force is minimal between bare feet, thick-soled
shoes and thin-soled shoes. Nigg also points out that the use of any shoe
usually increases the tendency of the foot to pronate, particularly if the
impact forces are smaller.
Moreover, several studies have shown that there is no correlation between the
amount of shoe cushioning and impact absorption by footwear during locomotion
(Robbins et al, 1988; Clarke et al, 1982). Similarly, epidemiological
studies have failed to provide evidence that expensive modern athletic
footwear enhances protection from injury to the lower extremities (Caspersen
et al, 1984; Powell et al, 1986). Thus, it would appear that safety of the
lower extremity is not simply a consequence of suitable footwear, but of
learning how to move the body efficiently while wearing a specific type of
shoe.
SHOE DESIGN
Clearly, the science of athletic shoe design is far from being exact. For inst
ance, the current fo-cus is on foot pronation. Other possible causes of
injury such as toe, ankle, knee and hip movement in three dimensions are
largely neglected. Moreover, footwear design is based almost exclusively on
theoretical models which postulate that shock loading and the inability of
the human anatomy to adapt to this loading are the primary causes of running
injuries. This becomes evident from the claims of manufacturers that their
specific shoes correct excessive pronation, control the rearfoot, offer
superior arch support or absorb shock effectively. These shoes do not modify
the impact forces during locomotion, a fact which casts severe doubt on the
cushioning philosophy that forms the foundation of all current shoe design.
Studies by Robbins et al (1988) have shown that the sole of the bare foot
exhibits a powerful plantar surface protective response which diminishes
plantar loading on ground contact, thereby reducing the risk of damage from
overloading during locomotion. Their work also revealed that this response
was not apparent among subjects who always wear shoes, especially the highly
shock-absorbing shoes generally worn by runners. They concluded this
protective response prevents injury by decreasing system rigidity, thereby
diminishing the peak force during foot impact. The lack of the protective
response among shoe wearers apparently is due to diminished plantar sensory
feedback, possibly combined with mechanical interference with arch deflection
by shoe laces, heel counters and arch supports (Robbins et al, 1988). It
would seem that sufficient regular locomotor activity without footwear should
be done daily to maintain the sensitivity of the plantar protective reflex
and that less emphasis should be concentrated on designing passive
shock-absorbing or pronation-modifying shoes.
Little work has been done on relating lower limb injury to anthropometric
factors such as bodymass, height or limb length, or other factors including
level of qualification, movement intensity, muscle fibre distribution,
patterns of EMG activity, feedback processes or bone density. No research
has examined aerobics or ‘cross training’ shoes with this degree of
thoroughness, nor has it carried out entirely satisfactory three-dimensional
studies of all physical factors influencing the efficiency of whole body
movement from initiation to termination of a locomotor action, in particular
with respect to the optimal design of any shoe.
Irrespective of how well designed shoes are, they must be used correctly in
different move-ments. In doing so the user must be aware that shoes always
reduce the proprioceptive and tactile sensitivity to the surface on which
they are being used.
Another reflex is also worthy of attention. Forces exerted on the shoe are
delayed in being transmitted through its shock absorbing sole en route to the
foot. The reflex positive supporting reaction (see 3.5.3), which normally
operates highly effi-ciently in bare feet to produce strong reflex extension
of the legs and stabilisation of the body, is delayed in facilitating rapid
cybernetic control and correction of unsafe movements when shoes are worn.
In particular, the locus of application of pres-sure to the surface of the
sole of the foot determines the position to which the limb will extend
(Guyton, 1984), so that inappropriate geometry of the shoe can significantly
alter the pattern of recruitment of the muscles of the lower extremities.
In contrast, the use of bare feet on firm, very high density chip-foam mats
in the average fitness class preserves proprioceptive efficiency, lowers the
centre of gravity of the body and, unlike shoes, does not increase the lever
arm length from the point of heel contact to the ankle joint, thereby
reducing the moments of force about all joints of the lower limb.
If anyone is interested in the biomechanics of shoe design and use, the
following book is very informative:
Nigg, B The Biomechanics of Running Shoes 1986
There are several useful websites on gait analysis and footwear that are also
relevant. Here is a small sample of ones that you might enjoy:
barefooters.org/medicine/med_sci_sports_exer-23.2.html (Barefoot Running)
barefooters.org/medicine/ (Bare feet are healthier)
uni-essen.de/~qpd800/FWISB/sneakers.html (Footwear Biomechanics)
ortho.rush.edu/gait/cases1.htm (Gait Analysis - Educational site)
polyu.edu.hk:80/cga/ (Clinical Gait Analysis)
About the Author
Dr Mel Siff
Author of Supertraining + Facts and Fallacies of Fitness
http://www.drmelsiff.com
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ATI Training Shoe - Running & Training Shoes $129.99 Increase your vertical to inches. Lower yd. dash time /ths of a second. Lightweight synthetic polyurethane upper. Rubber cupsole, non-marking outsole, molded EVA pedestal. Comes with a -week in/off season training program, instructional HD-DVD, laminated workout card and stretch strap. Sizes - , , . Color Blue/White. Conversion Mens size is a Womens .. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Under Armour Men's Nitric Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $59.98 Upper made of engineered patent and nubuck synthetics strategically placed for structure and support. This combined with a lightweight mesh provides trainers that are durable, yet breathable and light. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes / - , , . Colors Graphite/Steel/Evening, Black/Metallic Silver.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Women's GEL-Ipera Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $69.99 Style and performance wrapped into one shoe. Lightweight monofiliament mesh upper. EVA and canvass midsole for comfort and stability. Features Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System that absorbs shocks and provides a more comfortable ride. Removable sockliner. Solid rubber outsole. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - . Colors White/Orange, Blue/White/Green, Black/Silver/Raspberry, Green/Silver/BlueRunning & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Mizuno Men's Infinity Trainer 2 Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $94.99 Suede and Dynamic Synthetic construction provides superior durability, comfort and breathability. Infinity Wave technology provides cushioning and stability. Full-length EVA footbed has incredible shock absorption. Forefoot Flex response with Pro Flex multi-zone flex points. Multi-directional solid rubber outsole provides superior traction. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Color Black/White only. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Mizuno Women's Wave Nexus G3 Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $99.99 Lightweight mesh and synthetic leather upper for breathable durability. Parallel Wave Technology provides cushioning and stability for a comfortable smooth ride. Full-length contoured compression EVA foot bed provides incredible shock absorption. Durable Carbon Rubber outsole for long wear in high impact areas. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - . Color White/Silver only. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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ATI Training Shoe - Running Shoes $129.99 Increase your vertical to inches. Lower yd. dash time /ths of a second. Lightweight synthetic polyurethane upper. Rubber cupsole, non-marking outsole, molded EVA pedestal. Comes with a -week in/off season training program, instructional HD-DVD, laminated workout card and stretch strap. Sizes - , , . Color Blue/White. Conversion Mens size is a Womens .. Running Shoes - Running Shoes |
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Mizuno Women's Elite Trainer Fastpitch Training Shoe - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 Elite Trainer is an all purpose trainer ideal for training, batting practice, fielding drills, and play on hard turf. Colorcards to customize your team colors. Dynamic Synthetic Leather for superior feel, breathability, and comfort. Diamond tread multi-directional solid rubber outsole provides superior traction on all surfaces. Womens Sizes - . Colors Black/White only.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Mizuno Men's Wave Trainer G5 Training Shoe - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 Wave Trainer G is a lightweight comfortable training shoe ideal for batting practice, fielding drills, and play on hard turf. Premium Dynamic Synthetic leather for superior feel, durability, comfort, and breathability. Diamond Tread multi-directional solid rubber outsole provides superior traction on all surfaces. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Black/White, Red/White, Royal/White, Black/Black.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's Gel-170 Trainers - Running & Training Shoes $69.99 The successor to the Gel A great all-round shoe for all foot types. Packed with stability, cushioning and performance. Mens Sizes - , , , . Colors Lightning/Titanium/Navy, Black/Lightning, White/Navy/Silver.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Women's Complete Haraka XCS Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $19.98 Spiked cross country racer offers a snug fit and all the protection and stability you need to give the racer the best during tough racing conditions. Imported. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes / - . Colors Black/Pink/Blue, Scarlet/Navy.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Under Armour Women's Assert Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $52.98 Footsleeve system automatically wraps the midfoot with a secure feel that keeps athletes quick and comfortable. Ultra-breathable mesh body provides lightweight support. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - , . Colors Blue/Escape/Yellow, Black/Black/Silver, Aluminum/Carolina Blue/White.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Under Armour Men's Assert Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $45.98 Footsleeve system automatically wraps the midfoot with a secure feel that keeps athletes quick and comfortable. Ultra-breathable mesh body provides lightweight support. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Silver/Steel/Blue, Graphite/Steel/Velocity, Red/Red/White.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Under Armour Men's Chase Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $59.98 Customized fit cradles midfoot to give athlete better control. Thin, breathable mesh keeps foot cool. A durable, flexible shoe. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Silver/Steel/Red, Blue Taro/Velocity/White, Graphite/Graphite/VelocityRunning & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Reebok RealFlex Train Women's Training Shoes $89.99 The RealFlex Train is all about natural movement. Engineered with individual flex-friendly sensors and an Ultralite sole, these training shoes are designed to help your feet move and flex as you run, jump and stretch. It's natural movement - perfected. |
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Reebok SolarVibe Men's Training Shoes $54.99 The SolarVibe training shoe - with VibeTech energy-efficient foam cushioning system - is designed to maximize your workout. Plus it has a SmoothFit seamless upper, 3D Ultralite cushioning and forefoot flex grooves for optimal pushoff. Perfect for running, |
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Reebok SolarVibe Women's Training Shoes $49.99 The SolarVibe training shoe - with VibeTech energy-efficient foam cushioning system - is designed to maximize your workout. Plus it has a SmoothFit seamless upper, 3D Ultralite cushioning and forefoot flex grooves for optimal pushoff. Perfect for running, |
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3n2 Men's Momentum Trainers - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 Great for players and coaches alike. Leather and cordura upper offers the breathability of mesh but the durability of leather. Removable tongue strap. Injected molded midsole provides superior support and long lasting comfort. Aggressive turf outsole provides excellent grip in all-weather conditions. Imported. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Black/Black, Royal, Red, Patent Leather Black/White. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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The Pointe Book: Shoes, Training & Technique $22.68 This guide provides a thorough examination of the pointe technique and pointe shoes. Dancers tired of their pointe shoes wearing out too quickly benefit from research that illuminates the shoemaking process and tips that show how to best fit, care for, and custom order their shoes. Interviews with ballet stars Martine van Hamel and Darci Kistler reveal their highly evolved but proven methods of caring for pointe shoes. The basics of the pointe technique, different pointe methods, and the history of pointe are discussed. A handy reference on pointe-related injuries and their remedies is included. This new edition offers the latest information on contemporary designs, materials, products, and suppliers. A sampling of pointe technique schools around the country offers an authoritative syllabus for teachers and students alike. |
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Reebok Men's Realflex Transition Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $99.99 Synthetic mesh upper provides comfort, durability and fit. Removable Ortholite foam sockliner provides superior cushioning. Forefoot flex grooves provide flexibility. High-abrasion rubber outsole provides durability. Low-cut design adds mobility. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - . Colors Blue/Yellow/White, Grey/Red, Black/Silver, White/Black/Silver.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-1160 Silver/Navy Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $84.99 Features DuoMax Support System in midsole for enhanced stability. Trussic System in midsole for enhanced control and more efficient stride. GEL insert in heel absorbs shock for a smooth ride. ComforDry Sockliner provides comfortable fit and helps prevents odors. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , , , . Colors White/Silver/Navy.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-1160 Silver/Royal Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $84.99 Features DuoMax Support System in midsole for enhanced stability. Trussic System in midsole for enhanced control and more efficient stride. GEL insert in heel absorbs shock for a smooth ride. ComforDry Sockliner provides comfortable fit and helps prevents odors. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , , , . Colors Silver/Black/Royal.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-Cumulus 13 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $104.99 Features Trussic System in midsole for enhanced control. GEL insert in heel absorbs shock for a smooth ride. Look no further for a soft, smooth ride. Solyte Midsole material provides support for mild to moderate overpronators. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors White/Royal/Black, Silver/Yellow/Black, Silver/Scarlet/Grey, Grey/White/OrangeRunning & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Women's GEL-Strike 3 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $57.99 With a high-tech mixture of GEL Cushioning, long-lasting solid rubber outsoles, and the precision comfort of width-specific sizing, this plush and durable trainer is ideal for entry-level runners. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - . Colors Silver/Blue, White/Navy/Purple, White/Silver/Pink, Black/White/Pink.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-Strike 3 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $57.99 Features synthetic leather and mesh upper. GEL Cushioning absorbs shock for a smooth stride. EVA and canvass midsole for comfort and stability. Long-lasting high abrasion rubber outsoles for enhanced durability and traction. California Slip Last construction provides width specific sizing. Ideal for entry-level runners. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Black/Silver/Yellow, White/Grey/Royal, White/Grey/Scarlet.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Women's GEL-Cumulus 13 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $104.99 Look no further for a soft, smooth ride. Gender specific forefoot cushioning Trussic System conforms to the athletes arch throughout the stride. Full-length Solyte midsole material. ComforDry Sockliner for cooler performance with anti-odor properties. Added stability for mild to moderate overpronators. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - . Colors White/Scarlet/Turquoise, White/Grey/Blue, Silver/Pink/Grey.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-Nimbus 13 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $129.99 The GEL-Nimbus has dropped of an ounce, thanks to the new super light, super durable AHAR outsole material. Full-length Guidance Line gives the shoe a smooth transition through the gait cycle, and promotes a more efficient toe-off position. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Silver/White/Red, White/Black/Royal, Silver/White/Scarlet/Yellow.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GT-2160 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $99.99 Millions of runners have enjoyed the consistent fit, stability and comfort of this economically priced high-end performance shoe. Now with Guidance Line for a more efficient gait cycle, and reduced overall shoe weight. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Black/Black/Green, Black/Black/Silver, Black/White/Scarlet, Black/Grey/Scarlet, Silver/White/Blue, White/Silver/Royal.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Asics Men's GEL-1160 White/Black Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $84.99 Features DuoMax Support System in midsole for enhanced stability. Trussic System in midsole for enhanced control and more efficient stride. GEL insert in heel absorbs shock for a smooth ride. ComforDry Sockliner provides comfortable fit and helps prevents odors. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , , , . Colors White/Black/Grey.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Women's FAAS 250 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 Lightweight racing at its best. Lightweight mesh upper. Heel to toe rocker allows smooth roll off. Horizontal lateral flex groove allows natural stability. BioRide technology. flex grooves. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes / - , . Colors Festival Fuchia/Puma Silver, Dark Shadow/Neon Fluorescent Green.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Youth Faas 250 NM Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 The Faas offers a incredibly lightweight and responsive feel. Great for Ks. Mesh upper for breathability and long wear. Molded sockliner for snug fit and performance. EverRide and EverTrack technology in outsole for superior traction, durability and advanced cushioning. BioRide technology in midsole for responsive comfortable ride. Imported. Weight . oz. Youth Sizes - / Colors Crimson/Grey/Blue, Green/Gray/Orange, Grey/Black/Yellow.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Women's Faas 300 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 The Faas lightweight running shoe is built for runners who defy convention on a daily basis. Air mesh and synthetic nubuck upper for breathability and long wear. Lace-up closure with molded sockliner for perfect fit. BioRide technology in midsole for a natural, responsive ride. EverRide and EverTrack technology in outsole for superior traction, durability and advanced cushioning. Imported. Weight . oz. Adult Sizes / - , . Colors Grey/Purple/Blue, Grey/Green.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Women's FAAS 400 Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 An alternative to tradition with superior flexibility. flex grooves . Heel to toe rocker allows for smooth roll off. Horizontal lateral flex groove allows for natural stability. BioRide technology in midsole for a natural, responsive ride. EverRide and EverTrack technology in outsole for superior traction, durability and advanced cushioning. Imported. Weight . oz. Womens Sizes - , . Colors White/Puma Silver/Lime Punch, Black/Blue Atoll. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Puma Men's Faas 250 NM Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $64.99 The Faas offers a incredibly lightweight and responsive feel. Great for Ks. Mesh upper for breathability and long wear. Molded sockliner for snug fit and performance. EverRide and EverTrack technology in outsole for superior traction, durability and advanced cushioning. BioRide technology in midsole for responsive comfortable ride. Imported. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes - , , . Colors Crimson/Grey/Blue, Green/Gray/Orange, Grey/Black/Yellow. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Reebok Men's Zig Dynamic Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $99.99 Built for running, training and more. Features unique ZigTech sole, designed to provide the perfect balance of energy efficiency and cushioning. Also features SmoothFit upper designed to minimize irritation and rub, and Transition Bridge for optimal heel-to-toe handling. Synthetic upper for lightweight comfort and support. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes / - , , . Colors White/Red/Silver, White/Royal/Silver, White/Navy/Silver, White/Green/Silver, White/Black/Silver, White/Orange/Silver, White/Cardinal/Silver, Black/White/Silver. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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Reebok Men's Zig Fuel Running Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $99.99 Built for training and more. Features unique ZigTech sole, designed to provide the perfect balance of energy efficiency and cushioning. Also features a SmoothFit upper design, DMX Shear panel system for reduced heel stress and forefoot flex grooves for flexibility through the footstrike. Synthetic/mesh upper for comfort, support, breathability and fit. Weight . oz. Mens Sizes / - , , . Colors White/Red, White/Black, White/Burgundy, White/Royal, White/Green, White/Orange, White/Navy, Black/White/Silver. Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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New Balance Men's 696 Red 4E Wide Coaches Shoes - Running & Training Shoes $69.99 Abzorb EX technology provides lightweight performance. Synthetic upper. Weight .oz. Adult Sizes - , , , . Width E. Color Red.Running & Training Shoes - Running & Training Shoes |
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New Balance Men's 696 Black D Wide Coaches Shoes - Size 7 - Running & Training Shoes $49.98 Abzorb EX technology provides lightweight performance. Synthetic upper. Weight .oz. Adult Sizes - , , , . Width D. Color Black.Running & Training Shoes - Size 7 - Running & Training Shoes |