Running Season 2012: Top 3 New Running Shoes for Men and Women

By Daniel O'Rourke | Yahoo! Contributor Network – Thu, May 3, 2012 2:05 PM EDT

As all of you runners out there know, the 2012 running season is upon us. The most important thing to a runner is his or her feet and legs. The proper care of those two parts of your body all starts with the right shoes.

In this article, we will take a look at the top 3 new men's shoes and top 3 new women's running shoes on the market right now.
Top 3 Men's Running Shoes:
#1 Asics Gel-Nimbus 14 T241N Men's
After in-depth Internet research, phone interviews with shoe stores that specialize in running shoes, interviews with other runners, and, my personal opinion, these are the #1 best running shoes out there. At $140, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 14 is a newer, sleeker, lighter running shoe, with abundant cushioning and stability. They are also very breathable and good for almost every type of foot and runner profile. The only downside to these shoes is the price, and they are not good for people who are flat-footed or have sever pronation.
#2 Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 12
The Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 12 is the 12th incarnation of this shoe, and it only gets better each time around. The legendary fit of this shoe is even better in this model, with increased breathability, a friction-resistance heel, and crash plate to give you a better overall run with a shoe that lasts longer. At $110, this shoe is both a good price and durable. On the flip side, they do provide much cushioning and are a little stiff.
#3 Saucony Men's Kinvara 3
This running shoe is ultra-light, sleek, and built with soles that give your calves more range of motion to improve your stride. These shoes are the epitome of the minimalist model, but it is important for any consumer to note that the Saucony Men's Kinvara 3 shoe is a size bigger than other shoes in its class. Another special note, the Saucony website for this shoe is interactive and amazing. I highly recommend it. At $100, the Kinvara 3 is the most affordable and light weight quality running shoe out there. The only negative to these shoes are they do not last long and the durability is not the best.
Top 3 Women's Running Shoes:
#1 Nike Air Max+ 2012 Women's Running Shoe
With as much cushioning as a lady could ask for, you'll be running on air in these shoes. If that isn't reason enough to go out and get a pair, the Women's Nike Air Max+ is a durable shoe, combined with breathability and constructed to eliminate seams, minimizing the pieces of the shoe to provide an amazing feel and fit for your feet. This shoe is sure to put a spring in your step. At $170, this shoe is higher end, but you get what you pay for, which is the best female running shoe out there. Other than the price, it is hard to find a negative review of this shoe. The only downside to them is spending the money and then having them become damaged.
#2 Women's Adidas Adistar Ride 4W
Though this women's running shoe has come in at number two, it provides a fit that is second to none. This shoe is durable and was created for the serious runner, featuring technology that lets this shoe actually adapt to the ground to provide a very comfortable run. With maximum breathability and stability, the Adidas Adistar Ride 4W keeps your feet anatomically correct while running, and is a great choice. You can pick up a pair of these for $145. These are not the most attractive shoes and will not appeal to a women's sense of style, but they are built to last.
#3 New Balance NB Minimus MR00
You can where these shoes without socks, ladies! Enough said, but I will elaborate. The NB Minimus MR00 is designed for maximum comfort and is ultra-light weight. This shoe is a minimalist model, and is said to be like running barefoot, according to consumer reviews. While it is a minimalist shoe, you will also be paying a minimalist price for it and get a pair for $109. These shoes are not designed to last long, however, and if you do not have good form or pronation, they will be hard on your feet and legs.
I am a runner myself and am participating in the Bloomsday run on Sunday May 13^th, 2012. I am also registered in the Run for the Son event and the St. Joe River Marathon which was created and is chaired by my good friend, former trainer, fellow fire fighter, and avid runner, Jesse Baker. I support Mr. Baker's non-profit St. Joe River Marathon every year by bringing publicity to it and participating in it.