Running on Empty

Just like a car needs regular maintenance, your athletic equipment needs frequent attention and occasional replacement to keep your motor running.

When shoes are on their last leg they lose stability and shock absorption capacity and can lead to athletic injuries. Experts say you should replace your shoes every 350 to 550 miles.

For me (I run about 10-15 miles a week) that means buying a new pair every 6 to 8 months. For people logging 25 miles a week though, that equals every 3 to 4 months.

Some other factors to take into account are whether you run indoors or on pavement, which also adds to wear and tear.

But sweet gear often costs a pretty penny and to save cash people will literally run their shoes into the ground.

Well fret not fearless road warriors because hot new kicks don't have to cost a leg and a leg. I hit up my local DSW this week and found tons of fabulous shoes at major discounts.

Check of some of their sneaker steals:

Nike® Women's
Air Skyraider 2
Running Shoe
$59.95

New Balance Women's
WR7500
Running Shoe
$54.94

ASICS® Women's
Gel-Pulse® 2
Running Shoe
$69.95


Adidas
Women's Modulate
Running Shoe
$44.94

These kicks cost about half that of the newer versions but are just as bomb. So don't worry if you don't have over $100 to drop on the latest styles...the pricetag only reflects their level of fashion, not how far they will take you.

And you know what's not cool...crutches!