You act like 50lbs is no big deal. It's a decade of your life back, plus more fun now. Try replacing your shoes more often, your feet will thank you. A pair of running shoes is only good for about 300 miles, max. I lost 70+ and stopped b/c I was at "my weight" and I promise you that if you keep going you'll continue to get benefits. -XC
Three hundred miles? It sounds so far if I'm driving. However if I think of 2.5 miles at least twice a week (and how much I need to make that thrice a week), then I broke my first pair a few hundred miles ago. Wow. That makes the light bulb on a projector sound durable. Then again, I need my legs far more than I need pretty light against a wall. Thank you for that perspective.
How does one determine what's they best running shoe for them?
I'd go to a good running store - Fleet Feet, etc. Not a chain in the mall, that's for sure. Look for someone who might die if you sat on them! :-0) You can ask any local serious runners you see in the parking lot of the good running trails - it's a flattering question. There are probably better and worse pairs, but best seems to change (for me) depending on my running habits. Keep on keeping on! -XC
There's actually a renowned store nearby that I'll check out today!
Don't let them sell you a "walking" shoe. Running shoes are not great to walk on (not enough heel protection) but walking shoes are TERRIBLE to run on. If your goal is to run, buy running shoes. if you just want to walk, wear hiking boots. :-) If people ask, tell them you're going to the computer room. -XC