What running shoes provide the best shock absorption?
Yes, as an overpronate runner weighing in at 210 pounds, I probably should take up a less impact-prone sport. But I'm still running, so I need some shoes with torsional stability and impact-absorbing capability. For the past year, I have been running in a pair of Brooks Beasts, which have worked pretty well, but not perfectly (Spenco insoles helped some). Can you recommend several running shoes that are suited for a runner of my build?
— Charles New York City
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I don't think you'll find anything that works perfectly. I mean, a 210-pound guy with a pronation problem is going to beat the crap out of any shoe on the market. I just hope for your knees' sake that when you say the Brooks shoes have worked "for the past year," it isn't the same pair. I'd get new shoes every six months, if I were you. The cushioning is gone long before you really feel it.
Be that as it may, I always thought Asics shoes had both good cushioning and above-average motion control. The Eagle Trail II ($90; www.asics.com) is a trail-oriented shoe; the Kayano IX ($130) is better suited to pavement. The Kayano is also meant for runners who need stability. New Balance is another brand that's very tough and stable. The 1220S ($150; www.newbalance.com) is a highly rated option. Take a look, too, at the Adidas Adistar Control ($110; www.adidas.com).
I'd stick with the Spenco insoles, or maybe swap them out for a pair of Superfeet ($25; www.rei.com), which will add more stability (the Spencos mainly add cushioning). But, I just cringe when I think of you pounding down a hill somewhere. Running is really, really bad for your knees. Some people can go for years without blowing any cartilage, but you won't know how much damage is done until it's too late. I'm speaking as a reformed runner, including a half-dozen sub-three-hour marathons. No more, man, it's time to find another sport.
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I don't think you'll find anything that works perfectly. I mean, a 210-pound guy with a pronation problem is going to beat the crap out of any shoe on the market. I just hope for your knees' sake that when you say the Brooks shoes have worked "for the past year," it isn't the same pair. I'd get new shoes every six months, if I were you. The cushioning is gone long before you really feel it. 
