Date: 29 Oct 2006 21:07:31
From: Jeff Walther
Subject: Replacement for Brooks Radius 257?
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It's time (probably past time) to retire my Brooks Radius 257s. I bought
a pair of Radius 6 but they're going back. The stinkin' folks at Brooks
had to mess with the design. Specifically, the upper around the ankle is
cut lower in front so it doesn't lace as securely, and it seems tighter
around the ball of the foot, though the latter could be the difference
between a new and a well worn shoe.
Would someone out there who loved the Radius 257 care to recommend a
satisfactory replacement?
Over the years there have been running shoes that were adequate, and
running shoes I loved. And I loved the Radius 257. I would walk into
the store and ask for a couple of pair in my size with no need to try them
on after that first pair. I know we all go through this, but Grrrrrr, at
shoe companies for constantly changing fit and styling. What's the
point? How does it help them?
A long time ago I felt less strongly about the Nike Pegasus. Then around
1990 (1992?) somewhere in there they radically changed the design.
Bleah.
I think my all time favorite pair of running shoes was a pair of Avia 2050
back around 1991 or 1992. I switched to the Avia after Nike messed up.
And then to Brooks after Avia couldn't resist messing with a perfect (for
me) shoe.
Anyway, those are running shoes I have loved over the years. If there's
someone who has had similar preferences, I'd love to hear what you're
happy with now.
My feet appear totally normal when I do the wet feet test. I liked the
Radius 257 for the stability and cushioning (now days, I'm an overweight
runner, and my running often more closely resembles walking) and for the
way it snugged up around my ankle with a nice roll of cushioning at the
top. The new Radius feels on my ankle, the way I imagine a pair of hip
huggers would feel around my waist. The Avia 2050 also had that nice snug
feel in the early 90s. The last couple of times I tried Avias, they seem
to have lost it in the same manner as Nike and Brooks--lower cut upper,
tighter toe box--buts that's been a few years. Avia is claiming that
they've brought back the old 2050, so I may try on a pair.
--
A friend will help you move. A real friend will help you move a body.
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