Motion control: six running shoes that cover your particular feats

Men's Fitness, May, 2003 by Mark Thorpe

Finishing a run is like finding a pot of pork bellies at the end of the trading day. But finding the shoe that will make the run possible can be even more rewarding. Spend a foot-wrenching jog in the wrong pair of kicks and your adventures in the asphalt trade promise to be as enjoyable as an Enron stock return. For a straight-up shot at a season of serious, pain-free cardio, consider these money-in-the-bank performers.

1 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: SUPERIOR CUSHION

NIKE SHOX TL

Style: Cushioning

Stride: Neutral. Also a good option for guys with high arches.

Mechanics: The new Shox system provides superior cushioning from the heel to the forefoot to help serious runners protect their dogs on long hauls. C.O.D: $150

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2 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: NEXT-LEVEL OPTION

AVIA 2050

Style: Stability

Stride: Overpronators

Mechanics: The 2050's cantilever system not only stabilizes the heel, but also acts like a trampoline to soften the effects of pounding the pavement. Solid enough for the average jogger looking to take his game to the next level. C.O.D: $85

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3 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: COOLEST KICK

ADIDAS CLIMACOOL II

Style: Stability

Stride: Neutral to slight overpronators

Mechanics: With 360 degrees of ventilation--holes everywhere, in other words--hot feet will find the going a little cooler thanks to the shoe's unique design. C.O.D: $100

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4 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: EVERYDAY SPEED SHOE

MIZUNO WAVE MAVERICK 2

Style: Performance stability

Stride: Overpronators

Mechanics: Guys with medium, flexible arches will appreciate the shoe's stable platform for unstable feet. Also good for runners who want more speed on their runs. C.O.D: $85

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5 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: CUSTOMIZABLE

MERRELL FLASH

Style: Motion control

Stride: Good for all, from the neutral striker to the overpronator to the morally suspect supinator.

Mechanics: The removable M-chip support lets you customize the shoe to meet your foot's particular needs. C.O.D: $90

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6 MEN'S FITNESS SELECTION: WATER-RESISTANT RUNNER

ASICS GEL-1080

Style: Structured cushioning

Stride: Neutral to mild overpronators looking for a cushioned ride.

Mechanics: Support and cushioning make this a solid choice for the beginner or for the guy moving up the cement ladder. Water-resistant uppers keep puddle stompers dry. C.O.D: $80

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