How to shop for the right sneakers for each of your workouts
Deciding on the precise workout footwear for your workout needs is a more specialised task than selecting your everyday wear shoes for running errands. While making your selection, it is important to understand how to shop for the right sneakers for each of your workouts, thereby paying attention to a few specific things depending on the exercise regime that you follow, and the running routine you are gearing up for. E.g. the sneakers you would wear for your morning/evening runs should differ considerably in comparison to the shoes you would wear for squats or weight training.
There are several brands, styles, and colours available, that you could easily get distracted by these choices and find it confusing to differentiate between what will actually provide proper cushioning through the activities that you will be engaged in versus what just looks trendy or stylish. Here is some advice to heed before buying new footwear ~
How to shop for the right sneakers for each of your workouts:
Strength and Weight Training
Try converse sneakers for serious weight training. They are supportive although they don’t have any cushion or heel, which allows weight lifters to maintain traction and stability thereby protecting their knees from jerky movements. Another benefit is that you have high ankle variants which can be tightly laced up around your ankles, hence protecting them as well. However, if you are looking for something a bit more versatile that can be used for both weight training and your regular gym routine, try Nike Free X Metcon 2 trainers, which are lightweight and provide just the right amount of cushioning.
Cross-Training
A popular choice, cross-trainers are versatile enough to get you through your workout routines: running outdoors or on a treadmill, interval training, or lifting weights. Cross-trainers are light, have mild-cushioned fusion soles, and are usually made of a tougher material to handle wear and tear. In my opinion, it is always a great idea to invest in a pair of cross-trainers, rather than buying a dozen different pairs of sneakers for different activities. Some of the popular ones in this category are: Reebok CrossFit Nano 8 Flexweave, Nike Air Zoom SuperRep, Vibram KSO EVO Cross-Training Shoe, and Adidas Women’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer.
Plyometrics
If you are into jump training or plyometrics, you will want to be kind to your muscles and leg joints by ensuring your sneakers have shock absorption to counter the force exerted on your legs. An athletic pair like the ASICS Gel-Quantum 180, with a layer of cushioning and a thicker sole to allow for softer landings while also providing excellent shock absorption will work. Also, ensure you have sufficient arch and ankle support.
Running Sneakers
This one I would advise you to be extra careful about, as running puts the maximum amount of pressure on your leg muscles, knees, ankles, and toes. Also, the type of terrain you are running on; rough, smooth, uphill, or on a treadmill ~ will have to be taken into consideration while making your selection. I advocate getting fitted by an in-store expert at a speciality running boutique, where you can discuss what type of soles you were comfortable with in the past; reveal any history of accidents or injury, to enable them to present the best sneakers specifically for you. My recommendations: Nike Zoom Fly Flyknit Running Shoe, Mizuno Wave Inspire 15, Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail-Running Shoes, Asics Gel Kayano 26, and Adidas Ultra Boost 20.
Casual Sneakers
A hot commodity at the moment and for good reason; casual sneakers are practical, comfortable, and trendy. Wear them to explore a new city, to brunch with friends, for a casual meeting, for a fun bike ride, to run errands, and everything else in between! Take your pick of fashionable casual sneakers from Nike x Undercover React Presto, Adidas x White Mountaineering LXCON, Air Jordan 4 ‘Black Cat’, etc.
To conclude: Irrespective of what your workout plan may be, make sure you spend enough time researching how to shop for the right sneakers for each of your workouts. You may go with whatever brand and style feels the most comfortable to you, but my advice would be to head to a speciality or sports boutique for a suitable shoe fitting; that way your feet will be well taken care of when it will be time to get moving and work up a sweat!
The optimal shoe is going to support whatever is happening at the foot during that specific activity. Are you wearing the right sneakers for your workout?
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own personal trainer for more information.