New Balance Connections

New Balance has a new site just for runners training for the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon; NewBalanceConnections.com. Check this site out for training tips, nutritional advice and expert guidance from world renown marathoners.

You can even participate in live chat with world class athletes and featured competitors. This is a great resource for new and veteran runners alike, there really is something for everyone.

You will need to register and set up a user name, password, and also enter some information about yourself to set up your account; it really just takes a second. But once you do, you will have access to incredible information just for the marathoner in training!

Have a look, then give us your review below...

--Cassie

What is a Shoe Last?

This is a common question people have about New Balance shoes; "What is a Shoe Last?" All New Balance shoes are constructed around a wood or plastic model called a 'last.' The last effects the overall fit of the shoe. The most common lasts are 'SL-1' and 'SL-2.' You can find out more about Shoe Lasts on NBwebexpress.com.

Each New Balance shoe last creates a specific fit for men's, women's and kids' shoes. Once you know the last you need, you can search for shoes based on your desired shoe last. I personally prefer an SL-2 last...it's the most comfortable for me and gives my foot a little room to breath.

Did this answer any questions? Let us know...

--Cassie

Zhang Huimin Age 8: Too Young for a Marathon?

Check out this unbelievable article about Zhang Huimin, an 8 year old marathon runner from Lingao, China.

I found this article on a trail running blog created by ultra-runner Scott Dunlap. This article is from CentreDaily.com and was originally written by Evan Osnos for the Chicago Tribune.

Is this story a testimony of the human spirit and drive to perform your best? Or is this the story of an overzealous father and an over-trained young girl? You be the judge... post your comments and let us know.

This is a slightly older story dated May 2007, but I just couldn't pass it up.

Please note: Zhang Huimin is now 8 years old, at the time of this article she was 7.

--Cassie

New Balance - How New Balance Shoes are Made

Ever wonder how your New Balance shoes find their way to your feet? Of course you are the one who picks them out and brings them home, but how did they get to the store shelf or that website?

Check out this awesome video from YouTube.com. This 4 minute video shows us how New Balance shoes are constructed and the effort put into each pair.

Watch Now!

Walk This Way! Wendy Bumgardner's NB Walking Shoe Picks

Are you looking for just the right walking shoe? Check out this recent article on About.com.
Wendy Bumgardner, an avid race walker, lists her top 4 picks of New Balance walking shoes.

Keep in mind her picks are for neutral walkers or walkers who do not have motion control issues. To my surprise, her top picks are mostly running shoes! Read and find out for yourself.

Has anyone ever tried strictly walking in a running shoe? How did the running shoe perform?

--Cassie