I went to Big Five Sporting Goods to buy shoes for my son and I figured I would buy a pair of discount shoes to work outside in the yard and use for walks. I saw Avia for $ 19.95 and since they were inexpensive I picked them up. When I put them on, I was surprised at how comfortable and sturdy they felt.

I was used to buying running shoes for $ 80 to $ 100 but here was a pair that might work at least temporarily until I bought my self a pair of better built shoes.

But then I wondered about the Avia brand. On its website, Avia bills itself as “the leader in endurance sports racing footwear, is proud to celebrate a history of creating great products for the runner, triathlete, weekend warrior, and endurance enthusiast.”

The shoes are built with “Cantilever Technology” as imprinted in the insole.

Cantilever centers the heel over a concave sole which acts like a trampoline to soften impact and stabilize the heel. Cantilever is registered with Avia. I found a website, tennisserver.com, which states certain Avia shoes are good for a narrow sole. The article describes other manufacturers that found similar solutions.

Although I liked the Avia shoes when I got home, I am brand loyal to Asics Gels since they’ve served me well during my post-competitive running years. That means the Asics have protected my feet even though I’m above my racing weight.

Some research, however, brings into question the need for quality running shoes.

On www.abc.net.au, a question is asked Will good quality running shoes help prevent injuries? The answer from Dr. Craig Richards states that no research conclusively proves that quality running shoes will prevent injury.

In my opinion, keeping weight low will reduce the risk of knee injury and other potential injuries associated with running or power walking. But good shoes that serve you well are important.

So will I run in my Avias? I have even though I only planned to do so temporarily. While I like the short-term comfort and protection I wonder if they’ll last long term.

My Asics Gels withstand my weight and eventual wear and tear in the yard. I have my doubts the Avias can do the same. But maybe I’ll be surprised by my discount running shoes.