Hey fitness shoe experts: need help finding an alternative shoe

[yomama]

Sounds weird, I know, but here's the deal: I currently wear New Balance women's shoe, 1123. This style was recommended to me by my physical therapist and shoe specialist way back when I started having hip issues. It truly is the only shoe I can wear that does not cause pain for me. I will buy a pair and wear the bejeebers out of them before I get a new pair, because they are so expensive. The cheapest I have found them for is $109.00, but they usually retail for around $150.00. The thing is, I'm very active, and I am becoming more active as my latest surgery heals. I have to have a good shoe or my legs hurt. I just have a hard time being able to afford this price for a shoe, though. Does anyone know of a comparable brand for maybe about half the price? Here is a pic with what the type of shoe I wear, and what it has:
(one thing the description does not say is that it is a good shoe for arch support too. It is very important that my legs have stable support)

• A high mileage trainer for the runner who requires maximum motion control and cushioning.
• ABZORB
  
  FL offers excellent cushioning and compression set properties. A blend of DuPont
  
  Engage
  
  Isoprene rubber and proprietary materials provides the ultimate ride.
• ABZORB
  
  SBS in heel and forefoot provide optimal shock absorption and no compression set.
• N-LOCK
  
  integrated lacing and webbing system delivers the optimal fit, support and security.
• ROLLBAR
  
  GR.
• Multi-density insert.
• Suede overlays for additional comfort.
• Single density PU post.
• 360 degree reflectivity.
• Blown rubber outsole is lightweight and cushioned.
• N-DURANCE
  
  crash pad.
• SL-2 last.
• Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500 Diabetic shoe.
• Made in the USA.

 

[mom'sfolly]

I don't think you are going to find what you need in a cheaper shoe, unfortunately. My running guy wears Brookes, one of the stability styles, and he has even had problems when they change things at the factory.

You might want to consult a PT again, and see if they can recommend a shoe, or go to a store that specializes in running shoes. Here in Austin (admittedly a runner's town), I know of at least three stores that specialize in running shoes. My dh is currently seeing a PT for a foot issue, and he got new orthotics and his PT is going to be looking at getting him into a lighter shoe.

I also wear NB shoes, and I've bought shoes up and down the product line. In the case of running shoes, I've found you really do get what you pay for. The cheaper NB don't have the same support or materials. I have found that the Avia shoe line is much stiffer than most, and generally has a lower price. Maybe they will have something that works for you.

Obviously, I'm not an expert, but I wish you all the luck. I know lots of runners, and finding the perfect shoe is certainly the Holy Grail.

 

[yomama]

Thanks! It's funny, it seems like such a simple task to find a comfortable shoe, but what a difference it makes when it isn't the right fit. I see my pt tomorrow, I'll see what he has to say. I have a feeling I may just have to fork over the doe for another pair of NB.

 

[mom'sfolly]

I volunteer in the clothing store that supports the local food pantry. This week we got in a pair of size 18 NB shoes. I've been tickled since I saw them imagining just how big the man who wore them must be, and secretly appalled at what he must have paid for shoes that are surely a special order....

Good luck finding your Holy Grail.