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Consumer Reports Tests Running Shoes

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Jul 31, 2008 5:34 pm US/Eastern

Consumer Reports Tests Running Shoes

  Most of us own at least one pair of athletic shoes. When we're shopping for a new pair, we usually choose running shoes, but with so many brands and features available, how do you know you're choosing the ones that will perform best?

Consumer Reports tested 24 pairs of running shoes for men and women. It tested the shoes in the lab and it tested shoes out on the road.

Nine men and women ran more than 1,200 miles to help Consumer Reports test running shoes, including big name brands such as Nike, New Balance, Asics, and Adidas. The target price was between $80 and $120. Tests also included running shoes from Target called Champion that sell for about $30.

One test measured flexibility. Consumer Reports determined that the inexpensive shoes proved just as flexible as some of those that cost more. Other tests measured cushioning and stability.

"The least expensive shoes did okay for cushioning and stability, but they weren't the best rated," said Peter Anzalone of Consumer Reports.

Another test checks breathability. That's an important one if your feet sweat. Testers dampened socks, put them in each shoe and left them in a climate-controlled chamber for four hours. Weighing the shoe before and after shows how much water has evaporated. The inexpensive shoes were not very breathable.

When all the testing was done, top ratings for both men and women went to Nike's Air Zoom Vomero Plus Two. The selling price is $120. They're the only shoes tested that got an excellent score for cushioning.

Second place went to the Nike Air Pegasus Plus, 2007. Retail price is $85. Third place finisher was the Puma Complete Infinitus, also retailing for $85.

Consumer Reports says the most important thing when shopping for shoes is that they fit correctly. That's why the magazine recommends shopping at a specialty store with experienced sales help.

If you have a pair of well-worn running shoes, Consumer Reports suggests you take them with you when shopping for new shoes. The wear pattern on the shoe might help the salesperson find the right shoe for the way you run.

Another suggestion is that you go to the store dressed to run, and if the store has a treadmill, run for a couple of minutes on it with the new shoes just to make sure you like the way they feel.

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