In Reply to: sneakers/sports shoes posted by first_timer on Wednesday, 19. January 2005 at 06:23 Bali Time:
Sports shoes are very commonly available and are popular buys in Bali but many are very poor quality and, unless you're looking for a cheap pair, caution is required. If you are in a position to compare various offerings try gripping the toe and heel and twisting the sole. Better shoes will not twist very easily.
Another test is to try pushing the heel (at the finger loop) in towards the sole at the instep. If it gives then the heel support is paper or cardboard rather the rigid plastic and the shoes are not genuine ones from a name brand - no matter what the words or symbols show.
Don't believe that well-known names in the shoe retail business will only sell the genuine article either! In the past I have had fakes from the Athlete's Foot in Bali.
Watch out for ‘Rebok' brand and' Niike' or similar 'almost right' names.