What To Look For
Nike shoes feature the company's Zoom Air technology, giving a runner more cushioning with less thickness to the sole. Nike puts a different shank into its shoe, which offers more support and is specifically designed for the female foot. Women are thought to have more trouble with the flexion of their toes because of the lighter body weight applied to their foot, so Nike includes deeper flex grooves on the outer layer of the sole of some styles to counter the problem. It provides a more beveled heel for their women's shoes to help the foot roll through its stride. Additional features included in some models are a molded sock liner, which adapts to fit the foot, and additional support built in to the uppers of their women's shoes. The Nike+ iPod system offers sensors that connect to your iPod to download your run statistics from your shoes.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid manufacturers that use the same last for men's and women's shoes. Nike uses separate lasts to allow for the difference in biomechanics between the sexes. Among these differences are the tendency for women to overpronate more because of the angle produced by their hip alignment. Women also have feet that are shaped differently and need more arch support. Nike offers shoes that provide cushioning and stability created specifically for the needs of women runners.
Where To Buy
Visit the Nike website to purchase shoes straight from the company, including its iD line of customizable shoes. Nike shoes are widely stocked and can be found in many department stores or any specialty athletic shoe store.
Cost
You will generally pay $65 to $185 at the Nike website and in stores as of September 2009. Specialty shoe stores might charge premium prices, although sales and clearance merchandise can sometimes be found at a deep discount. Online auction sites frequently carry new or gently used shoes. These can range from average retail to bargain prices.
Comparison Shopping
For cushioning, the Air Max+ and Air Pegasus+ have received notice and good reviews. If you require stability in your shoe, or a trail model, the Zoom Structure Triax +12 is made to provide that extra durability. Runner's World liked the Air Streak for its double density midsole and midfoot support, and the Zoom Katana Trainer for its wide base and midsole, for those looking for a lightweight racing shoe. The Nike iD line allows customers to choose their own material, independent right and left shoe sizes, extra-large and small sizes, wide to narrow widths, personal coloring and iD. Customers can create a shoe tailor made for their specific needs from the Nike website.
