New Balance is well known for its superior shock absorbtion technology in its running shoes. ***Shameless plug: buy NB shoes they are great running shoes! Some of the shock absorbing features they have: ABZORB® — Shock Absorbtion ABZORB SBS® — Enhanced Cushioning N-ERGY™ 2.0 — Supportive Cushioning and Responsiveness Descriptions of each: ABZORB® For pure cushioning in the heel and forefoot, ABZORB® is the solution. By absorbing shock and displacing energy, ABZORB® softens the impact, foot-strike after foot-strike. ABZORB SBS® For enhanced cushioning ABZORB SBS® is the solution. Its unique cored design and material, absorb shock and displace energy to soften the impact foot-strike after foot-strike. N-ERGY™ 2.0 A new asymmetrical three-chamber design, N-ergy™ 2.0 provides a unique supportive cushioning experience as it compresses upon impact, to absorb heel shock. It then rebounds to its original shape for maximum responsiveness. For additional pronation control, the medial (inner) chamber is reinforced with an additional stabilizing element made of Dupont's Hytrel®. resource: http://www.newbalance.com/aboutus/media/pressReleases/03.29.05 http://www.newbalance.com/aboutus/media/pressReleases/10.27.04 http://www.aperfectdealer.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/scstore/sitepages/nb_technology.html?E+scstore