I am looking for any recommendations on lighter weight court shoes that have good flex/support/cushioning. I have heelspur problems and use orthotics and currently use New Balance 381s. To me they are "clunky" and not very flexible or cushiony and are not helping my feet. Looking for a change. Saw the new OC shoes which are 3/4 height and supposedly good - any experience out there? - they are patent leather though and not theat excited about that. Any recommendations for a light weight shoe more like a running shoe but of course black? Not easy to find and of course take your luck on line with not trying on. Thanks.

Never seen the 381's. Most of the guys who wear New Balance around here wear the 600 series. Depending on what the current model is (608 I believe), you'll find them to be the lightest, most supportive shoe around.

Whatever you do, don't buy Nike.

Nike Monarch!

Spot Bilt by Saucony
 

I do like the patent leather, my original Converse are getting worn out so I bought the patent leather Spot Bilt. The main reason I tried the Spot Bilt is cause they are made by Saucony and I have worn Saucony running shoes for years. I am a runner and have custom orthotics I also use when officiating. I have a double varsity tournament tonight, this will be my first time wearing the Spot Bilts (at least for the first game). They certainly seem light, I can report after my games tonight.

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Nuf said! The Nike Air Monacrh II are the best padded and most comfortable I have ever worn. And I, for the most part, am not a Nike fan. If you go New Balance do not go below the 600 line. They won't suffice. Also, don't make the mistake I did once and go with a Reebok walking shoe. They shined up great, looked great -- but I ended up with plantar fasciitis. Not enough support. Sounds like you're battling that, too.

My new Spot Bilts performed great. I wore them for both games with no problems.