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Equipment Boards => Bags, Shoes, Accessories => Topic started by: jensm on February 19, 2015, 05:11:29 AM
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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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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 (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 (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.
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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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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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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 (http://www.buddiesproshop.com/p-5000-brunswick-tpu-x-bowling-shoes-right-handed.aspx)
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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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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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Id love to try the TPUx....but i love the 3g cleated sole...
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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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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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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 (http://www.zappos.com/new-balance-iusa3810-supportive-cushioning-insole)
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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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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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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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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%
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.
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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a lot of replies over shoe inserts....I'm willing to bet everyone is over the age of 40 :D
I use SST8's and I have molded inserts that I use. It's expensive, but my insurance paid for it.....otherwise I would go over the counter and see which brand/style works....
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I'll be going to Dick's then soon! Being a small guy, I need my feet under me.
And I'm 37. :p
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I went Dr. Scholls "active series" gel insoles (I'm gellin' like Magellan) in my Dexter SST 6's.
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Great to see so many people weighing in on this!
I picked up on insoles after taking up running five years ago (I'll be 56 this year). I use ASICS Kayano running shoes with third party insoles that give my feet better support than the ones included with the shoes. I probably would not be able to run 20-30 miles a week without the right shoe/insole combination. I live in Sweden and it seems like insole brands are different here, but the ones I use cost roughly $75 a pair. They seem to do the job for me.
I have only used Dexter SSTs and 3G Tuor Ultras, but after a recent six hour tournament in my Tour Ultras and the same insoles I use for running, my feet felt a bit more tired that I am used to. So I thought I had better see if there are any bowling shoes with a bit more cushioning under the foot in the market. A neutral shoe with a bit more cushioning under the foot could be better than a neutral shoe with less cushioning under the foot. I doubt if bowling shoe manufacturers would make shoes with pronation support. But it would be neat to have that choice.
I will look into the Brunswick TPU-X shoes.
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I really don't mean to Hijack this thread, but I'm curious who amongst you bowls in street shoes with just a shoe slider over the toe? I also see a guy at one of my local centers who puts a GIANT sock all the way over his sliding shoe.
I was goofing off after a session and grabbed my spare ball to throw some balls thumbless and in my street shoes. I was surprised at how very little I slide to begin with and it made me think I may be happier in a pair of street shoes devoted to bowling and with a shoe slider.
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I might be going for the Brunswick TPU X shoes. A friend who got them a couple of months ago thinks they are the most comfortable and cushioned bowling shoes he's ever had. Allegedly the TPU X shoes were designed (and made?) by Calloway. That may explain why they cost roughly $325 a pair here in Sweden.
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I'll wear two pair of athletic socks with my SST8's, feel I have better balance and comfort.
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I really don't mean to Hijack this thread, but I'm curious who amongst you bowls in street shoes with just a shoe slider over the toe? I also see a guy at one of my local centers who puts a GIANT sock all the way over his sliding shoe.
I was goofing off after a session and grabbed my spare ball to throw some balls thumbless and in my street shoes. I was surprised at how very little I slide to begin with and it made me think I may be happier in a pair of street shoes devoted to bowling and with a shoe slider.
Depends on the shoe.
As long as it does NOT leave marks on the approach after you get there, slide or not, no harm, no foul. But most marks are left by the non-sliding shoe, if you look at the area from 6" to 5' behind the foul line. Many shoes or even running shoes use a plain rubber sole or heel; they leave tons of marks on the approach. Those are as bad as someone throwing baby powder or Easy Slide back in the setee area.
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Brunswick TPU-X.
I wore 3G's for 5 years and thought they were great. Trust me Brunswick TPU-X's are 10 times more comfortable.
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Brunswick TPU-X.
I wore 3G's for 5 years and thought they were great. Trust me Brunswick TPU-X's are 10 times more comfortable.
How do they compare size-wise? I currently use Tour Ultras so can I expect to use the same size in the TPU-X?
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Brunswick TPU-X.
I wore 3G's for 5 years and thought they were great. Trust me Brunswick TPU-X's are 10 times more comfortable.
How do they compare size-wise? I currently use Tour Ultras so can I expect to use the same size in the TPU-X?
Mine were almost identical in size.The only difference I found was that the TPU-X are not quite as wide as the 3g's and I purchased the Wide fitting.
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Brunswick TPU-X.
I wore 3G's for 5 years and thought they were great. Trust me Brunswick TPU-X's are 10 times more comfortable.
How do they compare size-wise? I currently use Tour Ultras so can I expect to use the same size in the TPU-X?
Mine were almost identical in size.The only difference I found was that the TPU-X are not quite as wide as the 3g's and I purchased the Wide fitting.
Ok, thanks for the info.
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I'll wear two pair of athletic socks with my SST8's, feel I have better balance and comfort.
order them from the us at 149.00 and get em shipped
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My daughter wanted a shoe with some color, something they really don't offer in women's bowling shoes. Her Coach recommended she try the Brunswick TPU, Donna slid her foot in the shoe and the smile was instant! I'm quickly watching quite a few teammates go from Dexter to Brunswick!
http://www.bowlwithbrunswick.com/shoes/detail/tpu-x/
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My daughter wanted a shoe with some color, something they really don't offer in women's bowling shoes. Her Coach recommended she try the Brunswick TPU, Donna slid her foot in the shoe and the smile was instant! I'm quickly watching quite a few teammates go from Dexter to Brunswick!
http://www.bowlwithbrunswick.com/shoes/detail/tpu-x/
I don't mean to offer any discouragement, but it seems people are having a problem with the non-sliding shoe, especially with the toe not holding up. Brunswick is aware of this problem. I don't know if they has corrected this problem yet or not. People do say though that the shoes are really comfortable. Ditto on the comfort of 3G Tour Ultras being really comfortable.
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I'm a big guy and have had issues with Plantar Fasciitis in the past. The Brunswick TPU-X are by far the most comfortable shoe. The arch support and comfort is amazing. Very similar to golf shoes.
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I have Linds Exxxtra shoes. Earlier this year...I was bowling league one night and in the middle of the set something in my sliding foot just went, and I couldn't put any pressure on my sliding foot without feeling noticeable pain on the bottom of the foot or arch most likely.....was limping for most of the week and when bowling came around the next week was able to bowl without really feeling anything...then after the 2nd game my foot gave again....same thing.....was limping for most of the week ..and right before bowling I stopped off a dicks sporting good and bought a pair of superfeet insoles, the orange ones--I saw them online and decided to try them....felt weird and different at first compared to the insoles mt Linds shoes came with--never considered putting different insoles in there till then....used the superfeet and I was fine for the set.....got used to the feel after a couple of weeks and since that first time I put them on, haven't had any recurring issues with my feet...so those worked for me.
Brad
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I wish Brunswick made the tpx in my size. I might try a pair of those inserts. My dexters give me little support.
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I have Linds Exxxtra shoes. Earlier this year...I was bowling league one night and in the middle of the set something in my sliding foot just went, and I couldn't put any pressure on my sliding foot without feeling noticeable pain on the bottom of the foot or arch most likely.....was limping for most of the week and when bowling came around the next week was able to bowl without really feeling anything...then after the 2nd game my foot gave again....same thing.....was limping for most of the week ..and right before bowling I stopped off a dicks sporting good and bought a pair of superfeet insoles, the orange ones--I saw them online and decided to try them....felt weird and different at first compared to the insoles mt Linds shoes came with--never considered putting different insoles in there till then....used the superfeet and I was fine for the set.....got used to the feel after a couple of weeks and since that first time I put them on, haven't had any recurring issues with my feet...so those worked for me.
Brad
Sounds the beginnings of Plantar Fasciitis to me. I have it in my left arch. The initial pain was in the heel and it was excruciating. It felt like someone was driving a nail into my heel with a hammer. I went to the orthopedist and his therapist gave me an exercise to do that cured it in a few days. I've shown it to several friends who had similar pain int he same area and it helped them also.
You basically need to stretch the tendon that is THE sole of your foot. It runs from the base of the toes to the heel and up into the achilles tendon. You just sit in a chair, cross the leg of pained foot and lay it across your knee, so the ankle faces up. With your fingers bend your toes with the heel of your hand towards top of the foot. Hold it, stretched as far as you can (so you feel it in your achilles tendon) for about 30 seconds. Do that 5 - 10 times a few times per day.
Now I do that 2or 3 times once every week or two and I'm good to go.
I also tried the Orange SUperfeet which works well in supporting the arch but they're expensive $45 or so. I use these other two with equal sucess.
Sof Sole's ARCH:
https://www.sofsole.com/product/Arch (https://www.sofsole.com/product/Arch)
(420 per pair delivered)
or for more arch support (higher, that is)
New Balance's Insoles IUSA3810
http://www.theinsolestore.com/new-balance-supportive-cushioning-insoles-iusa3810-2.html (http://www.theinsolestore.com/new-balance-supportive-cushioning-insoles-iusa3810-2.html)
You can find either of these almost any place on the internet. Sof Soles' own web site is the best and cheapest place to get it and they also have wide range of sole.
https://www.sofsole.com/category/insoles (https://www.sofsole.com/category/insoles)
They even have one specifically for Plantar Fasciitis. I have not tried that one.
I use one of these, New Balance, Sof Sole or Superfeet in every shoe and slipper I own. They put Dr. Schol's to shame. The best thing is the last forever with out losing their softness or their support. I use Sof SOle in every day shoes and New Balance in my bowling shoes and some long distance walking shoes.