New Balance Shoes

I have the 851 which looks to be the same target. I am happy with them (and I am very picky about shoes). They seem to offer me enough protection.

If you feel too many rocks, a variety of materials can be placed under the insole of many shoes.

Be sure to try on the model you are buying as New Balance has several different lasts.

Thanks.

I've never seen "protective" (I'll call them) insoles – just comfort ones (which is another issue for me).

Clarification: your last sentence ended with "lasts" – do you mean "styles?" Wondering if I'm missing something or are you referring to discontinued models….

Thanks again for your reply….

Here is some information about the New Balance Lasts:

http://tinyurl.com/4j2nb9

Thank you for the comments and the link – any other thoughts welcome….

I purchased a pair of NB 479 trail running shoes…liked the fit, but the top shoe lace loop broke after only about 20 miles. so I returned them and got turned off on the brand.

Try try again…I went with Asics GT- 2130 shoe, and after 10 or so miles, I like the fit and feel much better. I don't feel sharp rocks near as much with the Asics, and they appear to be much better made. Keeping my fingers crossed.

"I've never seen "protective" (I'll call them) insoles – just comfort ones (which is another issue for me)."

Eric, My comment on a "variety of materials" may or may not lead to solutions. I have a pair of old multi-pitch climbing shoes which came with a couple layers of removable stiffening material slipped inside. I have at times used this in other shoes. Probably only useful if you happen to have a plastic or composite laying around with the right amount of flex.

The question about lasts was answered in this thread as well or better than I could answer it.

Good luck with your footwear system. It may be more important than most of our (captivating and entertaining) gram weenie discussions here. Unfortunately it is also more subjective and experience in this area is difficult to apply universally.