I'm not sure about how long a pair of running shoes
should last, but if you have run 250 miles since
1/1, that is alot of miles, especially if you're
new to running. I run 3-4x a week and I probably
buy 2-3 pairs a year. If you are new to running,
you may be putting on too many miles or too many
days per week. It's important to slowly build
your mileage. I wouldn't add more than 1/4 mile
at a time and then wait at least 2 weeks before
adding more mileage. It takes time for your joints
and muscles to adjust.

Make sure you get your shoes from a running store,
not a 'Just for Feet' or 'Oshmann's'. It's important
to get shoes from sales people who are trained to
properly fit your feet with shoes that not only fit
your shape foot, but also work with the way you step.
Do you over-pronate or under-pronate? The shoes
you're weaking are excellent, but not if they're not
specifically for you.

As a fellow runner, I believe it's really important
to take care of your feet. They're taking on several
times your body-weight with each step. You might
want to check out Runner's World Magazine's March
1998 issue - it has their annual rating of running
shoes. It's really helpful.

Don't know if this helps, but I think you chose an
excellent sport. Running is my favorite sport! It
keeps me in shape physically and mentally.

Let us know how you do.