New, High-Tech Sneakers

Whether running a marathon or around the block, new sneaker technology can help.

What will they think of next? Today's newest sneakers aim to boost athletic performance, comfort and your coolness factor, but they don't come cheap. Shoes to help you put your best foot forward:

Nike Free
Nike Free has a featherlight sole that's ultra-flexible to mimic running barefoot, strengthening the feet and legs. You can even customize it in dozens of colors ($85-$100 at NikeFree.com and Niketown stores).

Spira
Spira's super-comfortable shoes feature real springs in the soles. When your foot hits the ground, the technology returns 87% to 96% of otherwise lost energy to you, decreasing fatigue and recovery time ($90 to $135 at Zappos.com; find a store near you at www.spirafootwear.com).

MBT
MBT shoe's rounded sole wobbles slightly, challenging your abs and back muscles to work harder while you walk. This tones them and improves posture-like doing Pilates upright ($250 at blissspa.com; find a store near you at swissmasaius.com).

Reebok
Reebok's Pump Wrapshear for runners has an inner air chamber that inflates, molding around any foot for a custom fit, while cushioning decreases impact ($100 at Reebok.com and sporting goods stores).