Been there had that! Converse "Whistle" model sneakers aare excellent.
Roadrunnersports.com has an item called the
"Pro Stretch". It looks like 2 old drum brake pads attached together. You stand on it and rock back, it stretches from the achilles to the glute, and is supposed to help with shin splints.
Have fun - -Suppref

[This message has been edited by Suppref (edited August 31, 2000).]