So, I was at this local shoe store that has a bunch of odds and ends, and I found a pair of these in my size. I tried them on, and they fit, but I didn't want to buy them until I got a little feedback on what you thought of when you first tried them on. They feel pretty stiff and heavy.....does that change pretty quickly? Would I be better off with a pair of Tiger Mexico '66s (even less heel, but might wear out real quick) or perhaps the retro Nike Waffle Trainer?
I think the Mexico 66 is a little too flimsy in the upper (in particular, the heel counter) for significant running, at least that is my own taste. The U81 and retro waffle trainer are two of my favorites -- for me, the waffle is a slightly better all around shoe (I ran my last marathon in it), but the U81 is wonderful -- I have used it for long training runs; for a full marathon a bit of extra cush seems to help the last six miles (that space-age, hi-tech waffle technology, y'know). Actually, I'd suggest getting both, they're not too pricey.
I'm on my 4th pair of Ultimate 81s, 1000+ miles per pair. You will drop an ounce off each shoe by taking out the rubber insole and putting in a foam insole (taken from almonst any other shoe). The firmness will dissipate a bit but you will never get a "soft" ride with these shoes. I see that as a major benefit.
How many miles do the Ultimate 81s last? I have ~250 miles on them right now. Also, how do they hold up on roads? I ran in them mostly on trails and grass but now I only have access to roads.
question wrote:
How many miles do the Ultimate 81s last? I have ~250 miles on them right now. Also, how do they hold up on roads? I ran in them mostly on trails and grass but now I only have access to roads.
You've got a long, long way to go.
The limiting factor in the life of the Ultimate 81 is the upper. Each of the three pair I've run in so far have developed tears in the upper around 800-1000 miles. At that point I sewed them up to get a little more out of them, but they were mostly done. The sole had barely any wear at that point, and I have no doubt I could have gotten even more out of them if the upper was more durable. Remember, the less there is to the shoe, the less will break down and need replacing.
question wrote:
How many miles do the Ultimate 81s last? I have ~250 miles on them right now. Also, how do they hold up on roads? I ran in them mostly on trails and grass but now I only have access to roads.
I change after 250 with the Ultimate 81's. I start noticing a difference at about 200 miles, so I don't feel comfortable going over 250 with them. I tried running in one of my older pairs that had 250+ miles on them, and my legs felt beat. They feel great on the roads. I run mostly off-road, but I love the smooth ride and flat sole on the roads. Very versatile shoe.