I'm a new official, and after my first few games, my feet are killing me. Can anyone recommend a good pair of shoes to referee in any other trick of the trade?

What are you wearing now?

What part of your foot hurts?

I've only ever worn New Balance (609s I think). They're pretty good. But they're even better when you put in a Spenco inserts. I suspect that they might make any shoe even more comfortable.

Thanks for the quick reply. Right now, I'm wearing an old pair of Nike Air that I've had for a while.

I use the 609 but without the inserts. On the job. I stand on my feet for 8 hours, so there I use Dr. Schoules(spelling?) work insouls with my work shoes. They work very well there.

Thanks, I'll pick up a pair of 609s and the inserts.

I wear the Dr. Scholls gel inserts, they work pretty well. ;)

What part of your foot hurts?

Are YOU gellin'?

Usually the back part of my foot hurts the most, near the heel.

like a felon, want some melon?

Then get the Spenco inserts or something similiar. This are NOT the soft squishy inserts. They are hard plastic orthotics that get the arch saupport. They will also help prevent plantar fascitis. Between those and some better shoes, your feet should be fine.

Do a Google search for Spenco.

If you can, talk to your doctor about getting orthodics. I got a pair, and make my feet feel so much better.

Teste manual: Thanks to following the advice of BktBallRef for several years, I am happy to report that I just bought my third pair of Spenco Cross Trainers and smiled at just the thought of using them, even as I was carrying the bag outa the store.
Got 'em, again, at Footlocker. (<small>I still prefer the V-neck to the sales assistants' BIG Black collars.</small> :cool: )
mick

I didn't get a manual with mine. . . :confused:

I agree with ref18. Find a podiatrist in your area and get some custom made orthotics..........I had plantar fascitis and after having them made I am pain free......I have worn both the NW 608 and the Converse Whistle.

New Balance 609's
 

Just found New Balance 609's on roadrunnersports.com for $39.99 (on clearance). Free shipping also.

I'm also a runner and have always used New Balance shoes for that, so would highly recommend them for running the court.

Custom orthotics are great. But they're also expensive, running $200 to $500 for a pair. Many insurance plans don't cover them, plus many insurance companies require that your MD refer you to the podiztrist.

Spenco inserts are a viable alternative.

when your feet, back or neck start hurting (providing it's not an overexertion issue) then usually it's a sign that your shoes have broke down. my shoes never see the outdoors and look practically brand new but when the support and shock absorbtion has broken down, then it's time for some new kicks. having 2 pair will last you more than twice as long as you will give 1 pair a day off to airiate and they aren't constantly being mashed down. Also, I couldn't do this without orthodics. Don't just look for a soft cushy feel, you need support and shock absorbtion. Orthodics will provide full contact support so your foot is not flexing and will help keep you from developing other foot problems.

No, I do not sell orthodics but I swear by them.

BktBallRef

Yes they can be pricy sometimes...........I get mine for about 175.00 and fortunately my insurance pays for 1 pair in each 12 month period. Just got my 3rd pair and they will stay in my officiating bag all season long. But you are correct the spenco is a great alternative.....

They are expensive, but worth it. They are better than Spenco or Dr. Scholls. Don't mess around with foot pain. Go see a podiatrist ASAP. If he recommends customorthodics--get them. You won't regret it.

Actually, my podiatrist recommended the Spencos. Even told me where I could pick them up! :D