Tri For 30: Sneakers or Humiliation Tool?

I went to a running store (plug) Run-n-Tri Company in Gulfport, MS.  It was a really great experience. I have really just been winging my training with no real plan in mind except for just running because I can do that with my boys, oh, and ignoring the fact that I have to swim because I'm not that great at it... and ignoring the bike because I have a "Mom Bike" with a kid seat on the back which everyone will mock be about but I refuse to take off because it was a serious pain in the butt to put on and I'm not doing that again.  Now that I have (gasp) less than 8 weeks until my debut as a triathlete I realized that I need to take it more seriously- or fail miserably.  This was the first step.. literally.... get it?? Bad pun.
I stood on a platform and had my feet scanned to see where I put pressure when I stand- super cool.  Turns out, not a huge surprise, I have ridiculously high arches.  So that means I need support... A lifetime ago when I did gymnastics my arches always hurt and felt like they were falling... weird right?  Anyway, I would tape them up since we tumbled barefoot and couldn't wear shoes with support.  Even then I knew my arches were "special".
 I stand with even pressure on each foot and evenly distributed for the most part.  I put a little bit more pressure on my right big toe.  I like to think that is my "mom toe" which allows me to spring into action and any second.  Either way, no big deal.  I got on the treadmill and ran for a bit.  The outcome: I have a neutral gait and just need a supportive shoe.  Awesome... especially for my bank account.  I tried on several different pairs, ran on the treadmill and picked the pair that felt the best.  There was a tie between 2 pairs and the $$ was the tie breaker.  The only problem with them is that they are florescent purple. Shield your eyes folks.... yeah, they are bright.

I normally pick the most comfortable pair from the ones that are on sale at Kohl's (when I have a 30% off coupon) and that are the most neutral looking.  Rarely do I spend more than $40 on a pair.  Not this day... $100 later and neon signs attached to my feet- I am all set to run my heart out.  My feet appreciate the upgrade... my vanity, not so much... oh well, at least I don't have to wear a goofy bike helmet... oh wait.