Treats for your dogs

It's a rare breed of runner who doesn't have specific needs when it comes to shoes. Pronators count on support to keep their rolling feet in place. Extra cushioning means added shock absorption, good for less-than-perfect knees, and a lightweight shoe can provide a competitive edge for racers. Then there are sizing issues ... Luckily, versatility is the watchword with this season's crop of shoes. Our testers (the two-legged variety) laced up, hit the road and trails, to report back on the best of the spring line. So, read on to find a compatible pair, because you only want the best for your dogs.

1 Saucony Fastwitch

At a lean 7.6 ounces, this high-performance racer is ideal for the serious runner who spends time racing or speed training on the road or track. From its streamlined look, lightweight cushioning system and razorthin rubber outsoles, everything about this shoe screams "fast," but it still offers enough shock absorption and support to protect your joints and soak up the impact. If you've got good running mechanics and are looking for a competitive edge, your feet should be in the Fastwitch this season.

Price: $85

www.saucony.com

800-365-7282

2. Nike Shox Turbo

The Shox Turbo is proof that form and function can coexist in one shoe. One tester noted how gorgeous this shoe is; the silvery outsole and exposed midsole reminded her of a wedding cake. But she was also quick to point out that it furnishes a seriously comfy, responsive ride. The standout feature is the four-column Shox cushioning unit (that's the part that's exposed). It's lightweight, sturdy and provides tons of impact protection, making this shoe ideal for owners of narrow-to-medium feet who pronate and put in moderate mileage.

Price: $100

www.NIKEgoddess.com

3. Asics Gel-Kayano X

The hallmark of the Gel-Kayano is comfort. Of particular note: the Personalized Heel Fit (PHF), a foam-lined heel collar that "remembers" the shape of your heel--it works! The gel midsole technology that Asics is famous for delivers the perfect blend of shock attenuation, stability and flexibility, so the shoe feels cushy, not mushy, buoyant but not overly bouncy. One tester claimed that the shoes felt so good her feet said "ahh!" when she slipped them on, and they were a joy to run in, from the first stride of her run to the last. Best for high-mileage runners with normal range pronation.

Price: $135

www.asics.com; 800-678-9435

4. New Balance W1221SB

There are many reasons why our testers say the W1221SB rocks. They were quite taken with the Stability Web support system in the midfoot, which provides outstanding structure yet allows the shoe to maintain its overall flexibility, especially in the forefoot. They also raved about the spiffy appearance and the virtually indestructible treads. Like all New Balance footwear, the W1221SB comes in a wide range of widths, so whether your feet are ultra-narrow A's or expansively wide D's, you're sure to find your perfect fit.

Price: $135

www.newbalance.com; 800-253-SHOE

5. Adidas Clima Cool III

This is literally the coolest shoe in our review, thanks to a unique ventilation system that forces air through special ducts in the shoe and out over the foot every time your foot strikes the ground. The air then escapes through the openings under the foot, through the side panels and out the back, thus keeping the foot cool and dry. Add to that Adidas's Torsion midsole technology, which allows the forefoot and heel to move naturally, and the other awesome stability, cushioning and support features, and you've got the perfect ride for someone who's prone to sweaty feet and needs a lightweight yet substantial shoe.

Price: $100

www.adidas.com; 800-448-1796

6. Asics Gel Eagle Trail III WP

Finally, a lightweight trail shoe that doesn't sacrifice any of the specialized technical features you need to skim over uneven terrain with ease. Trail runners of all abilities will appreciate the rugged, water-resistant design of this shoe, as well as the trail-specific outsole's durability and traction. Our testers noted the shoe's superior ability to provide a springy pushoff and a secure landing even on loose, rocky surfaces. It's a bit more flexible than most trail shoes we've tried, yet it still provides the extra support and stability that off-road running demands.

Price: $110

www.asics.com; 800-678-9435

7 Reebok Ultra Premier

Attention, mild pronators seeking excellent motion control and plenty of lateral support--this is the shoe for you. It features Reebok's DMX Shear Strip midsole technology, a high-performance heel cushioning system that holds your foot firmly in place while reducing the impact of initial heel strike. Our testers cited the Play Dry lining and mesh upper for their excellent breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. They also said that while the Ultra Premier doesn't have a flashy profile, it's attractive in an understated sort of way, like a superhero in disguise. Check out the rest of the Premier series, too: Premier Trail DMX, Premier Road Lite and Premier Competition.