Quality shoes for fitness is of great importance, because it can even affect your attitude and motivation about sports. From the shoes depends on the convenience when you exercise, technique and safety during class.
When choosing shoes for training should first consider the type of activity, for example, running shoes are not suitable for the gym and Vice versa. In our collection you’ll find tips on how to choose the right shoes for different types of workouts to feel comfortable and train with pleasure.
Sneakers for different types of workouts
Selection of sneakers for fitness will depend on where and what type of workouts you plan to do:
- Strength training in the gym
- Group or home fitness
- Crossfit or HIIT
- Mixed workout in a gym
- Aerobic workout in a gym
- Mixed outdoor sessions
- Dance workout
Let’s consider the recommended type of shoes for each of these types of workouts.
Running shoes for workouts in the gym
When choosing a Shoe for strength training in the gym should focus on their own goals in training. If you are doing heavy weights, then fit an ordinary running shoes for fitness with the support of the foot.
For those who regularly trains with more weight and perform basic exercises such as deadlifts and squats, require specialist shoes, for example, weightlifting shoes, or minimalist running shoes anatomical.
Tips for choosing sneakers for strength training in the hall:
- Prefer a model with a hard, solid sole for stability.
- Eliminate cross-country options with a depreciation, as they reduce the stability of the knee.
- Choose a model with a reliable support of the foot and rigid fixation of the heel.
- The sole should not be smooth and slippery to provide a secure grip with the floor.
- Ventilated uppers provide comfort during intense workouts.
Best female model for strength training in the gym: Nike Flex Essential TR running shoes for fitness with a hard rubber sole that promises a reliable grip due to the relief treads the average depth. Ventilated top mesh, and excellent fit makes the model perfect for strength training in the gym.
Best male model for strength training in the gym: Reebok Speed TR , sneakers with reliable zonal support ensure stability and sustainability in training. Low, hard sole ensures a complete sense of support and reliable traction. Anatomical pad sits exactly on the foot, which guarantees comfort in training.
Sneakers for group and home fitness
Home and group training sessions include elements of aerobic and anaerobic loads. Sneakers for mixed training needs to be multifunctional and is a good choice, both for cardio and for strength training and stretching. The best sneakers for group and home exercises will become a universal model with a sole of average height, with a reliable fixation of the foot and cushioning.
Tips for choosing sneakers for group and home fitness:
- Choose shoes with a cushioning layer to ease the task of joints during dynamic exercise.
- The sole should be solid and stable, not too high.
- Advantage will be removable footbed, perhaps, anatomically for personalized fit.
- Choose shoes with breathable uppers for comfort during workouts.
- The weight of the model should be small, otherwise not be able to train at the right pace and reduced the duration of employment.
- Note for fitness sneakers with flexible sole and elastic upper material, which is convenient to do the stretching after the main workout.
- Fixation of the foot should provide a framework for the model and solid lacing.
Best female model for group and home fitness: Under Armour Aura Trainer – lightweight running shoes versatile training with a breathable upper and flexible rubber sole are ideal for home and group dynamic training. Support foot provides padded the heel and individual adjustment – functional asymmetric lacing and removable footbed. Sole has an excellent grip thanks to the rubber protector, as well as flexibility, which provide transverse grooves.
Best male model for group and home fitness: Nike Tanjun – minimalist running shoes with breathable textile uppers and soles of ultratechnology foam material will be the best option for home and group training. Small protector provides excellent traction and flexibility, soles, and symmetrical lacing to help you secure the footwear to the foot.
Running shoes for crossfit and HIIT
Intense crossfit, and HIIT-workouts include elements of power, cross country, interval, and even gymnastic exercises, but because the shoes have to be versatile and reliable. Choosing running shoes for crossfit, please note breathable model with reliable fixation on the leg, in which it will be convenient to perform the exercises of varying difficulty.
Tips for choosing sneakers for crossfit and HIIT:
- The sole should be sustained without shock-absorbing layer, which reduces the stability of the foot.
- Please note on the model with a rubber sole, a foam or gel to reduce resistance.
- Excellent grip is necessary for crossfit shoes, otherwise you can get injured while performing such exercises as jumping, flipping tires, “farmer’s walk” and others. Choose a model with a clear rubber protector that have the best grip.
- You should not choose models with soft, flexible soles as they will not provide stability during strenuous exercise and will not stand climbing rope and similar exercises.
- Prefer running shoes for fitness with vented uppers, as the breathability is important when performing energy exercises.
Best female model for crossfit and HIIT: Reebok CrossFitNano 4 is an improved version CrossFitNano equipped with a special insert ROPEPRO for ease of climbing rope. Unique upper construction for durability, strength, comfort and a secure fit to the foot. Rubber sole provides superior grip and soft absorption of shock loads.
Best male model for crossfit and HIIT: 8.0 Reebok CrossFit Nano sneakers for functional training with compacted toe, a reliable fixation of the heel and soft cushioning. Rubber outsole with tread ensures the quality of the grip, and the FlexWeave has a breathable upper and flexible structure for more comfort during training.
Sneakers for mixed training at the gym (cardio + strength)
Shoes for mixed workouts needs to be sustained but at the same time have a cushion to mitigate shock loads during cardio. When choosing shoes for training cardio+strength is recommended to pay attention to light, a universal model for fitness with a stable sole and anatomical footbed for the perfect fit.
Tips for choosing sneakers for the mixed training in the gym:
- The sole should be with a cushioning layer and a rubber sole for maximum grip and stability.
- Breathable upper and removable insole – the need for comfort during intense workouts.
- Choose a model with a classic lace-up closure and padded sides for individual fit.
- Prefer lightweight running shoes for fitness, in which you can easily change the tempo workout.
- The rigid structure of the frame is desirable in order not to get injured when you change activity. The best option – the elastic top with hard inserts.
Best female model for mixed training in the gym: Adidas Alphabounce EX – universal sneakers for fitness technology with seamless upper for a perfect fit. Supports heel shock-absorbing Bounce sole with deep grooves for flexibility and a ventilated mesh upper make this the perfect option for energetic mixed training in the gym.
Best male model for mixed training in the hall: Complete Train Nike Zoom – running shoes for training, with textile uppers and inserts from rubber is designed for mixed type load. Low, stable sole with a cushioning layer guarantees stability and mitigating shock loads. Ventilated uppers, classic lace-up and handy you’ll enjoy the benefits of the model.
Shoes for aerobic workouts in the gym
Dynamic load suggest light and comfortable footwear that does not hinder movement, but is well fixed on the foot and allows you to make a wide range of motions. For aerobic training mandatory criterion for the selection of shoes should be cushioning to soften impact on joints.
Tips for choosing sneakers for aerobic training in the gym:
- Choose a model with cushioning and a stable sole.
- The optimum semi-rigid frame with supporting gussets and extended heel counter that secures the heel and ankle.
- Ventilated upper made of modern materials will allow to train for a long time.
- Professional Jogging sneakers will not work as they are designed for running, and not to perform various exercises in the aerobic rhythm.
- Choose lightweight running shoes for training with a low sole.
- A removable insole is required because during aerobic exercise, there is intense perspiration, and the insoles often have to wash or change.
Best female model for aerobic training in the gym: Reebok Flexagon Force – lightweight running shoes for training with the support of the foot and a shock-absorbing sole made of foam ideal for aerobics and other dynamic training in the gym. Breathable uppers, classic lace-up and semi-rigid frame for maximum comfort in the gym.
Best male model for aerobic training in the gym: Nike Revolution 4 – running shoes for fitness are ideal for cardio on the treadmill, and for any aerobic exercise. Springy sole medium height with a rubber tread to ensure stability, shock absorption and excellent traction. Ventilated top, a reliable fixation of the foot and protective inserts and a classic lace-up – everything for a comfortable training in the gym.
Sneakers for mixed outdoor sessions
Trainers for fitness on the street should be with water-repellent impregnation for classes in the fall or spring. Shock absorbing outsole and excellent support of the foot and ankle – a prerequisite for training in complex terrain.
Tips for choosing sneakers for mixed outdoor sessions:
- Sole with shock absorption and a rubber outsole with a pronounced tread will be optimal for functional, interval and cardio training.
- A rigid frame with the ankle support protects from injuries.
- Sturdy lace-up is necessary for additional support of foot.
- The top of the diaphragm of fabric or leather will protect from water and moisture inside the Shoe.
- Removable insole provides ease and comfort, because they can be washed or replaced.
Best female model: Nike In-Season TR 8 sneakers for fitness with the support of the foot and ankle, flexible, shock-absorbing sole and classic lace-up is suitable for outdoors in the summer season and the period of demisezonnye.
Best male model: Under Armour Commit Ex Tr – running shoes for training with uppers of leather and breathable textile inserts suitable for outdoor activities in warm seasons, and during the period of demisezonnye. Resistant rubber sole with shock absorption, a frame with seals at the fore and heel parts make the model ideal for mixed practice.
Sneakers for dancing
On the dance training is necessary to perform a wide range of different movements with aerobic and weight load. For dancing it is recommended to choose light shoes with soft frame made of textile or leather. The sole should be thin, strong and flexible so it was no problem to move in a fast or slow tempo, and perform the elements of stretching and gymnastics.
Tips for selection of sneakers for dancing:
- Prefer lightweight running shoes for fitness on a thin rubber sole with slight tread.
- Choose a model with soft, flexible frame.
- Durable lace-up will help you secure the footwear to the foot.
- Please note shoes with a removable insole to be able to wash or change if necessary.
- You should not choose a model with thick soles with cushioning, sneakers or running shoes, as they fail to perform specific dance moves.
Best female model: Fenist professional sneakers for dance with a suede upper and a flexible sole.
Best male model: SKECHERS Summits Forton – comfortable, lightweight model with a flexible frame and outsole, ideal for practicing modern dance.
Popular questions about selecting sneakers
1. What else is important to pay attention to when choosing sneakers for your fitness?
Choose a model in size, otherwise the training will turn into torment. Sometimes even offers half the size play a big role. To measure a new pair you need at the end of the day, when foot size is slightly increased due to the load for a whole day.
2. Are there any features in the selection of men’s and women’s running shoes for fitness?
According to statistics, women are more likely to injure the ankle, and therefore choose running shoes for training with compacted and “raised” back.
Men should pay attention to models with high ventilation, due to more intense sweating than women.
3. Is it possible to do strength training in running shoes for cardio and Vice versa?
It is not recommended to engage in strength training in shoes with high attenuation, as it reduces the resistance. And Vice versa – you should not run and jump in shoes with a thin sole as it increases stress on the joints.
If you plan on running on the street or in the hall, view our selections:
- Top 20 best womens running shoes
- Top 20 best men’s sneakers for running
4. What a universal model of sneakers for different type of fitness you can choose?
Choose running shoes with light cushioning, semi-rigid frame and durable lacing. Pay attention to the presented model.
Women’s budget model: Demix Fiji Trainer
Budget mens model: Demix Magus
Women’s universal model: Nike Air Zoom Fitness 2
Men’s universal model: Under Armour 2.0 Showstopper
5. Do you need special shoes for people with high obesity and problems of the knees?
In the case of problem joints or large excess weight it is recommended to pay attention to the shoes with an intermediate shock-absorbing sole.
You should not choose a cross-country model, the best choice is a versatile sneaker for training with soft cushioning, rigid fixation of the foot, sturdy lacing, and protection of the ankle.
6. Which brands produces the best fitness sneakers?
Great options of sneakers for fitness in the average price category, you can find Nike, adidas and Reebok.
7. What kind of running shoes not exactly the best to buy?
Do not buy a pair of running shoes, for example, from brands Mizuno or ASICS. Running shoes are designed not just for cardio workouts and Jogging at a specific load, and because it would be inconvenient to carry power and even plyometric exercises.
Also not suitable too cheap unbranded synthetic shoes that do not provide proper convenience and comfort during workouts.
8. Do I need special socks for fitness?
Perfect cropped socks made from natural materials that you can find at the same Nike or adidas.
9. How often to change running shoes for fitness?
Depends on the intensity of training – some have only one pair for a year or two, others for several months.
If fixation of the foot weakened or sole started to deform, then it’s time to look for a new pair.
10. How to extend the life of shoes for fitness?
Quality running shoes for fitness have high wear resistance, but also for them to properly care for. After a workout the shoes must be dried in natural conditions periodically to be washed by hand, regularly change the insoles and laces.
You should not use shoes for gym training in a different environment. For lessons on the street or the stadium must purchase a separate pair of sneakers for fitness in the outdoors.
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