I have a pair of Saucony Omni 8's which I really like and I think they got Runners World sneaker of the year in 2009. The Nikes I have looked at have been crap, you can bend the sole very easily and I was told that is not good. Saucony. Asics and Brooks will only bend at the ball of the foot. You do have to see what sneaker is best for you though and it does't matter what anyone says if you are not comfortable. I tend to pronate and when I started running I was 230 pounds (at 5'9") so I needed a lot of support. Look at your current sneakers and see if they are worn on the inner foot, that would mean you pronate and need some bulk or more support by the inner arch and heel. A good running store will have you bring your old sneakers to evaluate you. Because I have a tight budget and like a deal I just picked up a pair of Asics GT-2150 at Olympia Sports for $59 (with a $10 coupon). They are usually a $100 but because they came out with a new model they cut the price. This got good write ups in runners world but check out others online. Welcome to the running club I started running last year while trying to lose weight for the portly angler. Last Saturday I ran 9.5 miles which is the longest I ever ran, I am almost ready for that half marathon I have been shooting for. Do your research, there are sneakers out there that are not top of the line that people are very happy with but I think you get what you pay for so I would rather pay an extra $15 on something I can rely on. Good Luck!
