Do I really need Nike brand shoes to use Nike Plus?

Question

As I know there is a pocket on the Nike brand shoes for the chip that Nike Plus comes with, but can you use another brand shoe?

Answer 1

No. You can purchase pouches to hold the pod to your shoelaces for non-Nike shoes.

It looks like this product is one of the favored pouches, and it is $5.99 plus shipping:
http://www.shoepouch.com/

More info on other solutions:
http://podophile.com/2006/11/30/nike-ipod-shoe-hack-and-sensor-accessory-round-up/

http://podophile.com/2006/10/23/new-shoe-pouch-announced-for-nike-ipod/

Answer 2

Luas,

I run with Nike Running in Los Angeles on Saturdays. We get to test drive their equipment and gadgets before the come on the market.

The Nike+ shoes have an indentation in the bed beneath the cushion to place the chip. I used Nike+ Equilons and I could feel the thin chip beneath the cushion. The shoes were new, so you can imagine what will happen when the cushion wears down.

Other runners experienced the same thing with other Nike+ shoes. Some put the chip in their pockets, socks or laces and got the same results.

I personally would not recommend a Nike mp3 player, even if it is by iPod. I've had several Nike Philips mp3s in the past, and they break down completely about a day after the warranty is over. If you get the extended warranty, the product can't be replaced because it's no longer on the market.

Answer 3

I would say yes, you need the Nike Plus shoes. I have the Nike Chip and Nike Plus shoes that I love. The chip has a specially built in spot in the shoes under the sole so that it records every motion. You couldn't just stick it into a normal pair of shoes and expect it to work because you would have a big bump in your shoe and it wouldn't be as accurate.

Answer 4

No, you do not need the Nike shoes. I just saw in my last issue of Runners World where you can order a holder that attaches to the shoe laces that hold the chip and the products website at www.lacelid.com. I have not heard any reviews on it nor do I know the cost

Answer 5

I have always had good experience with nike plus they are good shoes. I would suggest you try a few out at the store before buying some. They have a cool little slot underneath the sole. comfortable. You should have waited though since the new wrist band is coming out soon. Its pretty cool no iPod needed. just the wrist band and the sensor. Way more conveniant then the iPod way. And yes if you put the sensor in your sole you will get a better reading.

Answer 6

Yes you can there a kind of shoes called asics i use them and I'm a runner and there so much conformable but they are kind of spendy the price of them are about $80 to $100 but i really suggest them and they really helped me run better and once i got them i cut of 30 seconds on a race i ran in so save some money and go buy yourself something that will really help you be a better runner.