New Balance 768 Running Shoes : Old Reliable

A couple of years ago I did a 400-mile section hike on the Pacific Crest Trail in a pair of New Balance running shoes. They were everything I wanted in a shoe for that trip.

I don't have any outings quite as grand on the docket for this summer but that doesn't mean I want a lesser shoe. Looking forward with great excitement, I've already got my lightweight summer trail shoes for this year: New Balance 768 Runners.

I have a personal policy not to wear my hiking shoes around town so I can get the most trail miles out of them. I thought of that policy during the first weekend of spring when I was supposed to mow the lawn but instead opted for an early-season hike.  

As soon as I got out of the car at the trail head it was apparent that the conditions were going to be much muddier than anticipated. By 100 yards down the trail, everything below my knees was soaked and mud splattered. The weather was mild and I was already there, so I pressed on.   

Despite the fact that my feet were wet most of the day I was glad to have worn my New Balance shoes. There's something invigorating and optimistic about making the first hike of the season in running shoes. A little mud and water doesn't change that.  

I've had a lot of luck with New Balance shoes over the years because they have so many styles, available in so many widths. I have a wide forefoot, a medium arch, a narrow heel, and I pronate a bit. The New Balance 768's fit my foot and stride perfectl--right out of the box. Because of the excellent fit, my feet remained blister-free even after several hours of hiking with wet feet.

Available in men's and women's styles and sizes.

Bottom Line: : These runners offer a well-engineered balance of support and flexibility that lets them move with and work for my foot as it goes through the motions of walking and jogging. I look forward to putting many more miles on my New Balance 768s...hopefully in drier conditions.--A.S. (April 08)

Price: $95

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Manufacturer's Site: www.newbalanace.com

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