Shoes

[dahoopref]

Since we're on the topic of shoes, I used to work for Roadrunner Sports (a running shoe catalog company) and I'd like to give some friendly advice to my fellow officials.

If you are a referee 200 lbs or more, you need to wear a stable shoe. That means most likely a heavier shoe like a crosstrainer. These shoes will give you more support for your ankle and take more shock absorbtion for your knees. A light/soft shoe might feel comfy and light, but will not be able to take the pounding up and down the court you'll put on them. The midsole will not take the shock with the weight you put on the shoes. You will eventually feel pain in your foot and knees.

Running shoes have their bottom sole made of carbon. This material is designed for the street/pavement and not for the court. A carbon sole will leave a black mark on the court. This especially happens when a heavier referee uses them on the court.

If you referee more than 5 times a week, the idea of rotating two pairs of shoes is good. It allows the midsole of the shoe to regenerate to their original shape. In the long run, you'll be able to put more games in both shoes than if you bought 4 different shoes without rotating.

I use the Nike Air Max 5 Tool Trainer and these are very good.

[cmathews]

I really like the OC shoe as well...They did seem to break down fairly quickly though...I could feel when I stopped and changed directions, my foot seemed to "roll" out over the edge of the sole....and believe me this is not from and fantastic amount of speed I subject them too....but there are some forces at work LOL...