Wow, how funny, I tried on the new balance new ones and they seemed to look rather wide too me. Anyway, I am brand new to running so I have yet to develop any technique whatsoever. i plan to start by going barefoot on the beach. I am reading, (as i mentioned) Chirunning, so I hope this helps me develop proper form from the beginning - we'll see, LOL. I'll have to check out those other brands. I have tried the Merrill Pace - very nice!