Running shoe marketeers would have you believe that every year there is some great new design or technology that is so far superior that you must run out to buy the latest pair and pay mucho buckos for em.. . . . . . . .NOT. No Way.. Don't trip over your laces as it just aint so > . . . . . In my opinion here is the real scoop.
The fact is, running shoes have improved only slightly over the last 15-20 years.
Barefoot facts:
A) My running shoes dont last any longer - 300-500 miles... do yours???
B) The basic cushioning ingredients are really the same. (EVA in many forms)
C) The basic outsole materials are pretty much the same. (Carbon rubber or Blown rubber)
D) The basics reason runners buy a shoe remains the same.. Because it FITS THEIR FOOT and it works for them..
The Sneakerhead guy says: Just like 15-20 years ago, running shoes last just about 300-500 miles. If the technology is so much better, why do we have to keep on replacing them..?? It's because the outsole wears out, or the midsole bottoms out, or they just get too darn stinky.
Most running shoes are made using the exact same manufacturing process as ever. Stitch an upper together and glue on a midsole/outsole. Not much new there. (Granted the upper and trim materials are now synthetic and do dry out faster and don't shrink as much.)
RE-Inventing the Wheel - Lets make it ROUND this time?
The stuff that protects your feet from the road - the cushioning material still is some type of that hard to pronounce stuff - It's called EVA, a foam pioneered in the 70's and 80's. Yes we know every company has to re-invent EVA - but lets be honest shall we. As long as the shoe fits right, Runners can't really don't care what you call it. as long as it works and they don't get hurt. So it begs the question if the shoes aren't lasting any longer, how can the cushioning be better? ? ? ? ?
What do you think..? / / /???
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