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- Jun 14, 2004
Originally Posted by markyd33psu
As a serious runner, I'll admit that Nike did lose major ground in the running game in the past decade. ASICS in particular caught up and started making a superior technical shoe, but don't think for a second that Nike doesn't make shoes for serious runners any more. It's just a shame that they push the 360's and Shox running shoes harder than their Bowerman Series line.
I just bought a pair of Equalon+ 2's a few weeks ago, and they're the best running shoes I've ever had. Air cushioning doesn't fully encompass their running tech... for instance, the E2's have a Cushlon ST midsole (a new, improved foam over Phylon), de-coupled crash pad (a huge advance in running tech), an upper designed to work around the bones of the foot, and outstanding medial support. Previously, I've worn the Structure Triax 10's, which, after visiting a running specialty store and checking out the ASICS 2120, a salesman said, "Check out Nike's AST 10... they're just as good as that shoe." And those shoes held up great for me for 400+ miles. And I've worn these shoes because I overpronate... if I was neutral, I'd gladly wear a pair of Vomero's instead of ASICS' Nimbus or the Peg's instead of ASICS' Cumulus.
I'm hoping that the continued quality that they've been putting out lately (some incredible running shoes are coming out in the spring) as well as the Nike+ product campaign will help change the public opinion that Nike's running shoes are "fashion over function". While this may be the case with the 360's and other non-technical shoes like that, the Bowerman Series line is really top-notch.
MenOfOregon... to answer your question, I'd love a Nike specialty running store. But then again, I'm a runner. I can see why this wouldn't appeal to many of the people in this forum... nothing against them, but it's a sport that many people just don't "get". It wouldn't have the consumer appeal of basketball, and nobody would flock there to see Paula Radcliffe's or Meb Keflezghi's PE's, but the running community is a small and dedicated one, and I see two main benefits of a Nike running shop: it could spread the history of Nike's involvement in the sport, and also demonstrate Nike's commitment to making serious (i.e. Bowerman Series) running shoes for all kinds of runners.
Oh no doubt, I know about the Bowerman series and have heard good things about it. That is what I was refering to when I said they were taking small stepsforward. But you hit the nail right on the head and was also the point I was trying to get across: Nike pushes fashion over function. This, in my opinion,causes Nike to fall out of the race for people who run. When I first started running, I steered clear of Nike shoes just because of the gimmicks (Shox, 360,etc...). I went for a brand who seemed to be dedicated to making running shoes (Brooks, Asics). I'm sure the Bowerman series could elevate Nike back intothe race but it's their gimmicks that cause people to choose another brand.
Take for instance the Nike+ accessories. This would be a great opportunity to also promote the Bowerman series along with the +accessories but what do you see?Air Max 180's and other fashion driven shoes being promoted more heavily.
I actually like the idea of having a Nike Specialty Running Store. It would be nice to go into a store and have educated employees fit you in the proper shoeinstead of trying to sell the most expensive shoe. I just think Nike needs to gain some more credibility within the running community and with people who arebeginners by showing that they have a serious line of running shoes.