I've been using the same pair of running shoes since 2002. Not continuously.
But they're starting to get really worn out, and I've noticed that my right ankle and calf develops a dull pain when running. My trainer (and others) have suggested that the shoes are about dead, and need to be replaced.
The warning sign here is that if the shoe can be twisted torsionally along the major axis with "significant" flex (what the hell does that mean?) then the shoe is worn out.
So, yeah. Manuel recommended Footzone, so I'll probably head down there tomorrow or something. And then hopefully, the pain in my leg will stop.
Yeah, gait analysis kicks ass.
The gait analysis people may even be able to analyze an ass-kicking.
That picture of the shoe weighs heavily upon my soul. I can't stop looking at it.
It's a bit like staring into the sun, isn't it?
I really valued the guidance I got from The Seattle Running Company when I bought my running shoes. They do gait analysis there as well but those people love running.
Bonnie-
Good to know—when I wear out my bling shoes, I'll stop by the Running Company!
--Dan