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Author Topic: Cushioning in bowling shoes  (Read 32968 times)

jensm

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Cushioning in bowling shoes
« on: February 19, 2015, 05:11:29 AM »
Thinking about getting a new pair of bowling shoes with a little more cushioning under the foot than my Tour Ultras. I am already using inner soles which support the arches better than the ones that came with the shoes. Any recommendations?
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charlest

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #1 on: February 19, 2015, 06:06:45 AM »
I've used the best shoes I can afford over my bowling life: Linds, 3Gs, and now Dexters. All had pretty good support BUT I always used my own insoles. I found the insoles make a bigger difference than the shoe in the support area.

While Linds in the 70s and 80s did not have anywhere near the support that 3Gs and Dexters have in the 2000s, they were the best shoe then available. I started using good insoles back then.

I use these 2 insoles. They are the best I have found for what I consider a reasonable price, given the job they have to do.

SofSole Arch: https://www.sofsole.com/product/Arch $20 per pair del.
I've used these for years and the the darn things won't wear out and I'm no light weight!

New Balance IUSA3810: http://www.theinsolestore.com/new-balance-supportive-cushioning-insoles-iusa3810-2.html $35 per pair delivered

The NBs have a higher, more firm arch support while still being ultra comfortable.

A friend had problems with his foot and a podiatrist prescribed a pair of custom made orthotics for some ridiculous price over $200. He threw them away because the SofSole were more comfortable and a better support for his feet. I don't know if that would be true for everyone.
« Last Edit: February 19, 2015, 06:08:40 AM by charlest »
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jensm

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #2 on: February 19, 2015, 07:26:05 AM »
Thanks Charlest! I've used the top line products from Dexter and 3G since I picked up bowling again 15 years ago. The last five years or so with my own insoles.

Still, I was wondering if shoes like Storm's SP 702s would offer a more cushioned experience: http://stormbowling.com/products/shoes/711

I have only seen pictures of the SP 702s. Don't they look a bit more cushioned, though?

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jensm

badbeard

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #3 on: February 19, 2015, 08:16:34 AM »
the answer for me was thicker socks they work well and the cost is about $9.00 a pair sold by Foxriver
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charlest

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #4 on: February 19, 2015, 09:28:28 AM »
Quote from: jensm on February 19, 2015, 07:26:05 AM
Thanks Charlest! I've used the top line products from Dexter and 3G since I picked up bowling again 15 years ago. The last five years or so with my own insoles.

Still, I was wondering if shoes like Storm's SP 702s would offer a more cushioned experience: http://stormbowling.com/products/shoes/711

I have only seen pictures of the SP 702s. Don't they look a bit more cushioned, though?


Looks are or cn be deceiving. While they look very much like many good running shoes (like my New Balance which I have found t be among the best for true support), it hard to tell how they actually support your feet. I understand they are built by Dexter for Storm so I'd suspect (but don't know) that their support would be similar if not identical.

On the other hand I have recently heard many, many good things about Brunswick's new shoes, the TPU-X model. They seem different from all the rest, but have adjustable soles and heels on both left and right which I need/want. The reports are so good, I am considering their purchase even though my Dexters (a very stiff leather upper) are not worn out.
http://www.buddiesproshop.com/p-5000-brunswick-tpu-x-bowling-shoes-right-handed.aspx
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tuckinfenpin

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #5 on: February 19, 2015, 09:50:54 AM »
My suggestion would be to get new inserts, as the inserts have a tendency to wear out in my opinion. If new inserts do not work, then you will have a new pair when you get the new shoes.

I always change out the inserts with new shoes. Not only does it help with sore feet, the additional benefit is a better balance for me.
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BallReviews-Removed0385

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #6 on: February 19, 2015, 10:27:14 AM »

Try on a pair of the new Brunswick TPU-X  shoes and you'll never buy another shoe.  Incredibly comfortable.  The footbed just cradles your foot.

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vkowalski1970

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #7 on: February 19, 2015, 10:52:29 AM »
Id love to try the TPUx....but i love the 3g cleated sole...
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Impending Doom

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #8 on: February 19, 2015, 11:05:06 AM »
This is a topic I feel many shoe manufacturers ignore. I have very flat feet. Charlest, do you recommend either of those inserts for flat feet?
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Steven

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #9 on: February 19, 2015, 11:57:41 AM »
Quote from: Impending Doom on February 19, 2015, 11:05:06 AM
This is a topic I feel many shoe manufacturers ignore. I have very flat feet. Charlest, do you recommend either of those inserts for flat feet?

Many years ago when I developed severe Achilles Tendonitis, my physical therapist prescribed Superfeet insoles. He said for most patients, they worked at least as well as custom orthotics at much lower cost, so try them first.
 
He was right, and I've worn them in all my shoes/boots since (hiking, skiing, snowboarding, bowling, walking). There are several Superfeet models based on foot shape and activity. For flatter feet and some cusion, look at the Superfeet Copper. I have them in my hiking boots and bowling shoes with no complains. I also use the Green and Blue models for specialized needs.
 
I haven't tried the brands that Charlest suggested, and they may be just as good. I'd suggest going to a high end sporting goods store that carries multiple brands and try them in the shoes you'll be wearing. They're all a little different with respect to feel, so make no assumptions.
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charlest

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #10 on: February 19, 2015, 12:51:50 PM »
Quote from: Impending Doom on February 19, 2015, 11:05:06 AM
This is a topic I feel many shoe manufacturers ignore. I have very flat feet. Charlest, do you recommend either of those inserts for flat feet?

Not being a doctor, I don't really know about flat feet.

I do have Plantar Fasciitis in my left foot. I suspect that this problem might cause the arch to lower somewhat as good arch support was strongly recommended by the therapist when I had the attack. Both those insoles have very good arch supports with the New Balance's arch being more  pronounced. I usually prefer the SofSole Arch as that is less .. forcefully than the New Balance.

You might try getting the New Balance insole from a place called Zappos, because the cost of every shoe and insole includes return shipping. $35 per pair is worth it but can be an expensive test if they don't suit you.
http://www.zappos.com/new-balance-iusa3810-supportive-cushioning-insole
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charlest

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #11 on: February 19, 2015, 12:56:03 PM »
Quote from: Steven on February 19, 2015, 11:57:41 AM
Quote from: Impending Doom on February 19, 2015, 11:05:06 AM
This is a topic I feel many shoe manufacturers ignore. I have very flat feet. Charlest, do you recommend either of those inserts for flat feet?

Many years ago when I developed severe Achilles Tendonitis, my physical therapist prescribed Superfeet insoles. He said for most patients, they worked at least as well as custom orthotics at much lower cost, so try them first.
 
He was right, and I've worn them in all my shoes/boots since (hiking, skiing, snowboarding, bowling, walking). There are several Superfeet models based on foot shape and activity. For flatter feet and some cusion, look at the Superfeet Copper. I have them in my hiking boots and bowling shoes with no complains. I also use the Green and Blue models for specialized needs.
 
I haven't tried the brands that Charlest suggested, and they may be just as good. I'd suggest going to a high end sporting goods store that carries multiple brands and try them in the shoes you'll be wearing. They're all a little different with respect to feel, so make no assumptions.

I tried the Superfeet Orange and they were $10 more than the New Balance. I wanted to send them back as I liked the Sofsole better but forgot and trimmed them.
Ironically I'm using them now due to a Stress Fracture in my slide foot; they work better now, they're less cushioned but stiffer and thinner than the other two. The podiatrist who diagnosed the fracture said a stiff insole supported the foot better until the fracture heals.

Very Ironic, Steven.
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TDC57

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #12 on: February 19, 2015, 01:12:42 PM »
jensm, the Storm SP-702 shoes are very much like the Dexter SST5 LX from a few years ago. I sent an email a while back to Dexter about whether they were the same and they said they were very close. That being said, I own a pair of the SST 5 LX and they are far more comfortable than the SST 8, I also own. I can wear them for extended periods and my feet always feel great. Same cannot be said for the SST 8. I think the SP-702 would be worth trying!
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Steven

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #13 on: February 19, 2015, 01:34:33 PM »
Quote from: charlest on February 19, 2015, 12:56:03 PM

I tried the Superfeet Orange and they were $10 more than the New Balance. I wanted to send them back as I liked the Sofsole better but forgot and trimmed them.
Ironically I'm using them now due to a Stress Fracture in my slide foot; they work better now, they're less cushioned but stiffer and thinner than the other two. The podiatrist who diagnosed the fracture said a stiff insole supported the foot better until the fracture heals.

Very Ironic, Steven.

 
Your point is well taken. That's why I'm suggesting to Doom that if he can, go some place where he can try on different brand/models. One man's foot heaven is another man's torture chamber.  ::)
 
The Superfeet Copper has more cushion than the other Superfeet models. It's claim to fame is that it molds to your feet without having to do anything special. I choked on the $50 price tag (priciest of the Superfeet), but I'm happy with the combination of cushion and support the Copper provides. I'm bowling 30-40 games a week now, and I can't afford to take shortcuts on foot support/comfort.
 
The stock footbeds in any bowling shoe are generic jokes, because the manufacturers don't know the foot structure of the person wearing them. It's well worth the effort for anyone to get insoles that support the feet and body. Ignoring this will potentially cause significant problems down the road.
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charlest

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Re: Cushioning in bowling shoes
« Reply #14 on: February 19, 2015, 03:08:46 PM »
Quote from: Steven on February 19, 2015, 01:34:33 PM
Quote from: charlest on February 19, 2015, 12:56:03 PM

I tried the Superfeet Orange and they were $10 more than the New Balance. I wanted to send them back as I liked the Sofsole better but forgot and trimmed them.
Ironically I'm using them now due to a Stress Fracture in my slide foot; they work better now, they're less cushioned but stiffer and thinner than the other two. The podiatrist who diagnosed the fracture said a stiff insole supported the foot better until the fracture heals.

Very Ironic, Steven.

 
Your point is well taken. That's why I'm suggesting to Doom that if he can, go some place where he can try on different brand/models. One man's foot heaven is another man's torture chamber.  ::)

Agreed 110%
Quote

The Superfeet Copper has more cushion than the other Superfeet models. It's claim to fame is that it molds to your feet without having to do anything special. I choked on the $50 price tag (priciest of the Superfeet), but I'm happy with the combination of cushion and support the Copper provides. I'm bowling 30-40 games a week now, and I can't afford to take shortcuts on foot support/comfort.

Those are expensive, but
That's exactly how I feel about it for bowling and for the rest of life.
 
Quote
The stock footbeds in any bowling shoe are generic jokes, because the manufacturers don't know the foot structure of the person wearing them. It's well worth the effort for anyone to get insoles that support the feet and body. Ignoring this will potentially cause significant problems down the road.

Yet again, agreed!
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