The funny thing about this whole debate is, I love Nike so much. I mean I really LOOOOOOVE the swoosh. When my wife got into stocks I told her it was mandatory that she get at least on share of Nike just because the way I feel about Nike.
I will still say that when it comes to running shoes Nike doesn't work on performance as much as other companies. Don't just single out New Balance, think about Mizuno, Brooks, Asics, etc.
I have foot problems that have bothered me since before I started officiating. I'm in the Air Force and I wear boots everyday. Additionally, I used to be one of those guys that was at the gym playing ball all the time. The position I'm coming from is someone who must get the best shoes for running. My opinion has been formed by various doctors and employees at running shoe stores. BTW, those stores are way more than just a Foot Locker type of store. They allow you to run in their shoes and they evaluate how your foot is striking the ground. They have Nikes at those stores and it wouldn't be too far of a stretch to say they are collecting dust.
I know Nike was founded on running. I did some research on the company. Did I mention how much I love Nike?
I agree with you about marketing. Besides Microsoft, Nike probably has one of the best marketing departments ever. When I say fashion shoes I mean I wear Nike running shoes when I'm out and about, but I do not run in them. They work great for a lot of people and I wish my feet would allow me to be one of them, but I don't think they are the best by any means.
If we were to talk about any activity besides running, I would agree with you. I just don't really consider another brand. The New Balance I got for officiating was just to see what they were about and I'm not impressed so far.
You should tell running publications that shoe styles change every year then maybe they would deduct points from other companies for not changing their styles.
I think the core names you speak of are probably Shox, Air, Air Max, 360, Zoom, etc. The specific shoe names is what changes. That isn't always the case with other brands. My sister works for Saucony's parent company and I was in their company store looking at the 2008 model line. The same shoe I have is carrying over to the new line. That is what I was talking about. Nike doesn't always change the shoe names, but they do it a lot.
How can you speak about running shoes and not know what motion control is? Different foot types require different types of shoes. Motion control is a type of shoe that helps runners who overpronate. These shoes basically have a built-in orthodic.
Look at this article
http://www.mensjournal.com/toolsToys...ningshoes.html Nike wins in the cushioning category with the 360 of course. That is the only Nike mentioned. Look at this
http://www.rateitall.com/t-559-running-shoes.aspx Only 3 out of 27 ratings are Nikes.
After the advice of doctors, running shoe store specialists and dealing with plantar faciitis for over 10 years, do you really think I'm guessing? The alternative is to listen solely to someone who is making their living from Nike. It is safe to say you are a little biased.