For running, for fitness, for every day. How to choose the right sneakers. How to choose the right running shoes? Detailed study of sneakers
Good health and good physical shape is becoming the dream of many people. Today it has become fashionable to go to the gym, engage in athletics, fitness and other sports. But to ensure that exercise does not bring discomfort, you need to choose the right shoes. It should not only be comfortable, but also protect the foot from unnecessary injury. That is why experts from goodrun.com.ua recommend that women take models of sneakers that have a grooved sole with good shock-absorbing properties and prevent slipping. It is desirable that the upper of the shoe allows air to pass through, is light and does not float the foot, and the sole is widened near the heel - such models of sneakers are considered stable.
Be sure to look at the heel of the shoe - it must be firm. The frame of the sneaker should be the same, since soft shoes during high-impact training can lead to injuries. Buy models with laces - they secure the shoes well on your feet. When it comes to color, everyone has their own aesthetic tastes: some like bright pink sneakers, while others prefer more subdued shades.
For treadmill
Running on exercise machines is very popular today. For such an activity, it is better to choose sneakers with micropore soles, arch support and gel inserts. Such models provide excellent shock absorption for the legs and reduce the risk of injury. In this case, the top should be lightweight. Sneakers should not create a “greenhouse effect” inside. Alternatively: models made of fine, durable mesh with few or no soft seams. Then it will be possible to avoid chafing of the skin and calluses. Also pay attention to the weight of the product - it should fit your leg comfortably and be light.
For aerobic exercise
For those who are engaged in strengthening their cardiovascular system and attend aerobics, we recommend choosing the following models of sneakers:
- with a durable upper made of thick fabric, artificial leather or genuine leather;
- practical;
- with a micropore sole, but without gel inserts;
- stylish and comfortable.
For athletics, it is better to choose sneakers with a grooved and hard sole, which also has good shock-absorbing qualities. But for playing badminton or tennis, light shoes are suitable. A great option: sneakers-boots with low backs that won't fly off your feet.
For strength training in the gym
Girls who dream of increasing muscle volume do strength exercises. If everything is more or less clear with the choice of clothing, then the choice of shoes should be taken seriously, because the risk of injury during training will depend on it. So, for strength exercises, you need to choose models with micropore soles, corrugated ones, then the foot will not slip. Also suitable are products in which the sole at the heel is wider than the top of the shoe - such shoes are more stable. To lift the barbell, it is better to use models in which the heel and frame are rigid and durable, then you can avoid dislocating your leg. Experts recommend choosing sneakers with thick soles and cushioning. By the way, in such shoes there is a slight rise in the back of the sole, which is responsible for shock absorption.
Purchase
When purchasing sports shoes, you must first decide on the style and color. After that, take the selected sneakers and check their weight. They should be light; heavy models are not suitable for fitness. Next, you need to conduct a visual inspection of the shoes: there should be no traces of glue or unevenness on the seams. Check the backdrop - it should be rigid and not wrinkled. For running and jumping, choose products with grooved soles.
For many years, jogging has been one of the most accessible and popular types of physical activity, which allows you to comprehensively improve your health, train your heart muscle, lungs, lose excess weight and gain emotional balance. A daily standard run will not require significant material costs for equipment, except perhaps shoes, since good, proper running sneakers are simply necessary. Professional track and field athletes are well versed in the modern selection and will immediately name the best sneakers for running on rough terrain, on the road, or sneakers for Nordic walking, but beginners will find it difficult to understand the range offered. Therefore, especially for them, a review of the main characteristics of running shoes or how to choose running shoes?
Anyone who doesn’t run far or often and doesn’t have serious problems with health and well-being can get by with regular, high-quality standard sneakers. The main thing is that they must be sized, well ventilated and have some shock-absorbing properties.
People who are committed to serious and regular exercise need to be prepared for the fact that they will need more than one pair of special shoes - for different seasons and different routes - sneakers for off-road running, road running, waterproof, insulated or others. Special, properly selected sneakers will provide more effective and safe training for people:
- who are overweight and, accordingly, their feet experience increased shock loads;
- sprinters who move at a speed of more than 13 km/h;
- stayers who train at least three to four times a week for 30 minutes or longer.
What kind of sneakers are there?
General selection criteria
Despite the variety of types of running shoes, all models share a number of key characteristics that you should focus on when choosing.
- It is worth purchasing only soft and flexible models, especially in the front part, where the foot bends.
- It is necessary to have shock-absorbing blocks located depending on the running style in the heel or toe area.
- Sneakers should have a high degree of breathability to avoid diaper rash, discomfort, unpleasant odor and fungal infections. You should not buy completely leather ones; it is better if they are made from combined materials.
- Laces are used as fixing elements for the tightest fit on the foot.
- The weight of a pair should not exceed 300-400 grams.
- The insole must be removable so that it can be replaced with a new one or an orthopedic one.
- The sole material is of high quality, resistant to deformation, abrasion, and mechanical damage.
If you are more interested in just an active walk through the forest or city streets, rather than running, then it is better to buy walking shoes, they will make it much more pleasant and comfortable.
Review of popular brands and models
The selected list was compiled based on reviews from customers who had the opportunity to test the presented running sneakers in action. All models are products of famous brands, so their quality characteristics are beyond doubt. As for functionality, each pair is optimal for certain conditions.
Nike Free Run Distance– a universal model, suitable for amateur and professional races. The sole is massive, divided into large segments, excellent shock absorption for long distances. High strength and wear resistance.
Puma Speed 300 Ignite– maximum comfort in one pair from a famous brand. Model for sprinters. Suitable for people with neutral pronation, they provide excellent cushioning in both the heel, toe and midfoot areas. The highlight of the model is a special insert in the multi-component sole, which increases the pushing force and has a positive effect on acceleration. The sole texture is suitable for soil and asphalt, wear resistance is excellent, the sneakers are very light, breathable over the entire surface, and have reflective elements.
Wave Enigma 5 from Mizuno– one of the best running models. Very comfortable and durable sneakers for people with normal foot pronation. Both the upper of the shoe and the sole are wear-resistant, have excellent air permeability, the inside is soft, comfortable for the foot, highly resistant to injury, and protects against fatigue. The model is intended for long runs at a moderate pace, not for speed competitions. Depreciation 5 out of 5.
from the same manufacturer Mizuno - a special development for runners who prefer rough terrain and off-road. The sneakers have good traction characteristics and durability during intensive use. Very light, although massive in appearance. There is a special protective insert on the heel that protects the athlete from excessive shock loads and provides excellent shock absorption. Deep, I perfectly fix the leg in the anatomically correct position.
Supernova Sequence Boost 8 from the famous company Adidas. Part of the professional line for asphalt racing, the #1 choice of most qualified athletes. Prevent flat feet, stabilize the foot, a special Boost midsole with an Eva insert for perfect air exchange. Sneakers perfectly absorb shock loads, making sports comfortable and effective. Suitable for people with excessive and normal pronation. Durable and reliable, like all things from Adidas.
Another Adidas development - sneakers Energy Boos t, is also included in the premium class segment. The upper is a sports synthetic with polyurethane inserts, 100% breathable, providing excellent aeration under any load, as it is also equipped with a Boost outsole with an Eva insert. The shoes are almost imperceptible, very light, and fit the foot like a second skin. Depreciation is excellent.
Ultra MT from The North Face– another universal model for running on any surface. The sneakers feature a large number of innovations, one of which is super-breathable fabric with a microporous structure. A set of shock-absorbing elements reliably protects against injuries and, when moving, returns the energy expended by the runner. One of the most comfortable models from the entire list, wear resistance is excellent.
Sonoma by Asics– affordable sneakers with balanced performance characteristics. They performed well off-road. An excellent option for amateur use. Suitable for people with normal pronation, the heel is protected from impacts by a special gel insert. The upper is mesh, reinforced with overlays, the design is durable and comfortable, the legs do not get tired even after long distances. Suitable for leisurely running.
Gel-Trabuco 10 from the same ASICS are designed for rough terrain and routes of increased difficulty. Excellent grip on dry and wet soil, slippery surfaces, grass, roads covered with mud. Not suitable for speed races, more for moderate pace. The shock absorption is excellent and the wear resistance is also excellent.
S-Lab Fellcross 3 from Salomon– aggressive design, powerful construction specifically for off-road use. A large number of edges guarantee excellent adhesion to any type and condition of fabric. Made from water-repellent materials, very soft and durable. The cushioning is average, the sneakers are not suitable for compacted ground. Very comfortable for the user. Average weight.
Based on the characteristics of shoes from sports experts, you can choose analogues made by less famous brands, which are correspondingly cheaper.
Sneakers are absolutely universal shoes for all occasions. They come in a variety of models and from a variety of materials. What do you need to know so as not to make a mistake with their choice?
Purpose, time and place of purchase
You shouldn't go to the clothing market to buy real sneakers. You won't find them there. Only to a good sports or shoe store, or to a company store that sells clothes and shoes of famous brands.
Decide on the amount you are willing to pay for them. Of course, 300 rubles won’t buy you anything good. It will just be wasted money. Prices for real sneakers start somewhere from two thousand, however, you can save up to 50, or even 70%, by purchasing a model from last year’s collection. You may have to wait for a discount period to do this.
What do you need them for?
Before going to the store, think carefully about what you need sneakers for - for running, for fitness, for playing football, or you will simply wear them as everyday shoes. Whatever the purpose of the sneakers, they should be as light as possible, otherwise they will hinder your movement.
Running and jumping shoes must have shock absorbers under the heel and toe. This allows you to reduce the compression load on the spine and joints. The soft foam cushion on the back will protect your feet from blisters. If you are buying sneakers for walking, then reflective stripes will be useful. They will increase your safety on the street several times.
If the sneakers are intended for sports activities in the gym, then their sole can be almost flat, with a not very deep, but quite frequent wavy texture. These sneakers slip less, and even on a wet floor the likelihood of slipping and falling is low. Sneakers for walking over rough terrain should have a porous sole structure and convex treads, and for winter running - a thick sole made of material that does not harden in the cold, sufficiently textured so that the foot does not slip in them, and an insulated upper so that it does not freeze.
What their top is made of is also important. Traditionally, genuine leather is considered the best material, although today artificial materials also successfully compete with it. For example, mesh synthetic fabric. This is an ideal option for summer. True, in the rain, sneakers with such an upper will get wet, but in dry weather you simply won’t feel them on your feet. They are light, comfortable, and breathable. Modern synthetic materials are also good for sneakers, this is not cheap leatherette! They are quite wear-resistant, sometimes even stronger than leather. These sneakers will last you quite a long time. Just pay attention to whether they have perforations. If you don't have it, your feet will sweat a lot. However, today manufacturers often combine these materials: capes made of artificial leather, mesh inserts on the sides, foam back, trimmed with soft natural leather. Larger people need firmer sneakers, while thinner people need softer ones.
It's worth looking at how well the sole of the pair you choose flexes, and whether it has a raised toe and a tapered back. Also pay attention to what material the midsole is made of. In good expensive models it is made from ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) or super ethyl vinyl acetate (SpEVA). The name of these materials must be indicated on the label. They make sneakers more durable, increase their service life and prevent sole deformation under heavy loads. To make the heel part of the sneakers spring better, special cans filled with compressed air or a special gel are placed in it.
Look inside the sneakers: what kind of insole does it have? It should be removable, absorb sweat well and be made of a material that is easy to wash. Also, the insole should not move under your foot. It should also have an instep support that supports the arch of the foot, which helps distribute the load more evenly.
Under no circumstances should you buy sneakers with Velcro; only lacing can securely fix your foot and protect it from dislocation.
It is advisable to buy sneakers half a size larger than you usually wear. Be sure to try on the chosen model, and in the socks with which you intend to wear them. If possible, walk in them and jump. They should not press under any circumstances.
The cold weather is coming, and training smoothly flows from the street to the gym. If you decide to continue your strenuous training, then the first thing you will need is a pair of versatile running shoes. The advantage of such sports shoes is obvious: you can exercise on an exercise bike, lift dumbbells, and even go to a yoga class (a friend convinced me to “go just once”).
In addition, gym sneakers should be durable, yet lightweight, functional and fashionable. Yes, fashion is now everywhere, even in the gym. So, here is a guide to the best gym shoes.
PUMA CARSON RUNNER
If you love your favorite sweater, then why not find a worthy pair. The PUMA CARSON RUNNER sneakers are made of durable textile material and will help bring back the forgotten feeling of your student youth. Cost: $52.
NIKE AIR MAX 1 ESSENTIAL
AIR MAX sneakers have long become a cult model and the NIKE AIR MAX 1 ESSENTIAL is no exception. Air cushioning for enhanced cushioning and Nike's signature swirl will set you up for more athletic success. Cost: $75.
REEBOK FURYLITE OG RED RUSH
Low-top, comfortable sneakers for moving around the gym. They're durable enough to withstand the demands of your workout and stylish enough to take you home from the gym. Cost: $75.
NEW BALANCE 574
New Balance sneakers are arguably the most iconic sports shoe. The brand created the 574 model back in 1988 based on two of its best sneakers. And although the 574s are more of a casual sneaker than a pure sports sneaker, they will quickly win your love. Made of natural suede and mesh, with a super shock-absorbing sole, they will become your companion in the gym for a long time. Cost: $75.
REEBOK VENTILATOR NEON
You're guaranteed attention when you wear the Reebok Ventilators, a model from the 1990s. The enlarged logo and bright neon accents are responsible for this. Cost: $75.
ADIDAS TUBULAR RUNNER
Return of the 1993 model. The Adidas Tubular Runner is soft. The shock-absorbing outsole is made of EVA, and its design is inspired by inflatable car tires. Cost: $77.
REEBOK ZPUMP FUSION
Everyone probably remembers the classic Reebok pump basketball shoes from 1989. Everyone has dreamed of shooting hoops like Shaquille O'Neal. And even if years later your basketball game isn’t going well for you, you can simply pump up your pump with the updated Reebok ZPump Fusion. The main thing to remember is that the pump is now located on the side, and not in the tongue, as before. Cost: $80.
NIKE INTERNATIONALIST
Inspired by retro design, Nike Internationalist added a durable ridged outsole for better traction. The signature Nike curl is still there. As a result, we get truly universal sneakers; you can work out in them in the gym or walk down the street. Cost: $85.
NIKE AIR PEGASUS 83
Somewhat reminiscent of the Internationalist, the Nike Air Pegasus 83 also has a ridged outsole for good traction. The upper is made of suede and mesh. Thus, again we get multi-purpose sneakers. Cost: $85.
REEBOK LES MILLS ZCUT
A collaboration between Les Mills and Reebok, the ZCUT looks like it's from another world. Made using NanoWeb and Fit Frame technologies, the sneakers are extremely comfortable and flexible, and the special Velcro weave ensures a firm fit of the sneakers on the foot. Cost: $90.
ADIDAS ZX FLUX
Another way to stand out in the gym is the Adidas ZX Flux. Featuring a bold geometric pattern, molded EVA midsole, durable mesh upper and internal Torsion system, the sneaker not only looks beautiful, but is also durable. Cost: $95.
ADIDAS CLIMACHILL COSMIC BOOST
However, if you come to the gym specifically for training, then the Adidas Climachill Cosmic Boost sneakers are exactly what you need. The elastic midsole and Climachill technology will make you forget about fatigue and give it your all. Cost: $98.
NIKE AIR HUARACHE
If you think that these shoes look more like space shoes than sports shoes, then you are wrong. Here is a remake of the classic 1991 model, which became the ultimate dream for many. And, despite the numerous details and accents, the sneakers are ideal for working out in the gym, and not just for going out. Durable sulfur and elastane construction, a soft toe cap and resilient outsole are everything you'd expect from a proper sports shoe. Cost: $100.
ADIDAS LOS ANGELES
Emulating the aesthetics of the original LA Trainer, the adidas Los Angeles model combines the best of both casual and athletic footwear. This is how the Adidas Los Angeles sneakers appeared. Cost: $100.
NIKE ROSHE LD-1000
An update to classic Nikes from the 1970s. The sneaker's sweeping silhouette is complemented by a flexible ridged outsole, breathable mesh upper and Ortholite insole for a comfortable fit. Cost: $100.
NIKE ROSHE ONE FLEECE
An updated version of the Nike model above. The Nike Roshe One Fleece has a simple silhouette; they are made from fleece, which is fashionable today; The elastic white sole is shaped like a small springboard. Cost: $110.
NIKE FREE 4.0 FLYKNIT
Nike introduces the Flyknit series - breathable, ultra-light running sneakers. Compared to other models, the Free 4.0 Flynight is more resilient and low-profile. In other words, they're perfect for running on the treadmill when it gets too cold to run outside. Cost: $120.
NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM ZANTE SWEATSHIRT
Made from breathable textile material, the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Sweatshirt is the perfect weekend shoe for hitting the gym, then grabbing a coffee and enjoying the day. Cost: $120.
NIKE AIR PRESTO FLEECE
Another sneaker model made of breathable fleece. The combination of soft textile material and a responsive molded sole makes the Nike Air Presto Fleece extremely comfortable. Cost: $75.
NIKE AIR MAX 90 ULTRA
Another update to the original Nike Air Max. The Nike Air Max 90 Ultra is almost a third lighter than its predecessors. Featuring its signature Air-Sole technology, the Nike Air Max has been a must-have for fans since the 1990s. Cost: $130.
ATHLETIC PROPULSION LABS TECHLOOM PRO
Athletic Propulsion Labs is new to the sneaker world, but they make some amazing shoes. At one time, their sneakers were banned by the NBA because they gave players an unfair advantage. The Techloom Pro's one-piece upper is made from breathable material. Also worth noting is the shock-absorbing insole and sole made of proprietary Propelium material. Cost: $140.
AIR JORDAN FUTURE LOW
Air Jordan sneakers debuted in 1984 and became the best-selling sneakers in history. Naturally, there have been many updates released over the years and the Air Jordan Future Low is one of the most recent. The sneakers feature a minimalistic mesh upper with reflective coating and a rubber outsole throughout. You can have a great workout in them and in the gym and you won’t be ashamed to leave the gym. Cost: $145.
NIKE AIR MAX 95
The NIKE AIR MAX 95 sneakers are an update of the original hit model introduced in 1995. While retaining the signature sole with Air Max technology, the sneakers also boast new features: an innovative and reliable lacing system. Now you don’t have to worry that a lace untied at the wrong time will throw you off your rhythm. Cost: $160.
ADIDAS ULTRA BOOST
The super mega lightweight Adidas Ultra Boost is sure to become your favorite sneaker. They are so weightless that your legs will lead you to the gym themselves, the main thing is to grab your sports bag in time. Cost: $180.
ADIDAS YEEZY BOOST 350
The YEEZY BOOST 350 sneakers are a collaboration between Adidas and Kanye West. Featuring an all-black, textile upper, custom rubber outsole and simple laces, this is the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350. Price: $200+.
Today, the dream of many people is to be fit and healthy. But dreams alone will not help make your body perfect; for this you need, first of all, to take a step towards sports. And for this step to be comfortable and effective, you need to purchase good, high-quality and suitable sneakers for training.
Many people think that the sneakers they wear for walking with friends are also suitable for working out in the gym, but this is a mistaken opinion. For exercise in the gym, you need to select sneakers individually, depending on what type of physical exercise you plan to do.
How to choose sneakers for the gym
Properly chosen shoes are not only comfortable when working out in the gym, but also protect against unnecessary injuries. After all, if your shoes are chosen incorrectly, you will not be able to avoid falls when playing sports. What do you need to remember to avoid mistakes when choosing shoes for the gym?
Always consider a few rules for choosing sports shoes, and thanks to them you will choose the ideal pair for sports:
- for gyms, you should take sneakers with grooved soles to avoid slipping;
- the top of the shoe should be light and breathable, it is advisable to avoid synthetic fabrics, because sports shoes should be well ventilated and not float the foot;
- the sole of sports shoes should be widened near the heel, since such shoes are always stable;
- the heel of the shoe for the gym should be solid, like the frame of the sneaker itself, because soft shoes easily warp under load and can cause injury;
- the sole of training shoes should not only be grooved, but also stable, with shock-absorbing properties;
- sneakers for the gym should be light, of high quality, meet all orthopedic requirements and satisfy your aesthetic tastes;
- buy sneakers with laces; they fit securely on your feet;
- Make sure that the tongue on your sports shoes is securely sewn on and does not curl inward.
Men's shoes
While women pay a lot of attention to the choice of sportswear and shoes, men very often choose shoes almost at random, thereby creating discomfort and the threat of injury during training.
To choose the right men's sneakers for training in the gym, it is not necessary to rely on trendy types, because a brand does not mean reliability. The main thing is to learn to distinguish between shoes for athletics and shoes for strength training.
For athletics, First of all, you need to pay attention to the sole of the sneaker; it should be hard, grooved and with good shock-absorbing qualities.
For strength training take shoes with a solid back and frame. This pair will protect against sprains when lifting heavy objects. For strength training, it is better to take high-top sneakers; they fit snugly to the foot and protect against ligament tears and various types of sprains.
Female sneakers
Sneakers for women are chosen according to the same principle as sneakers for men. If you decide to exercise on a treadmill, choose light, comfortable shoes, preferably without laces, fasteners or Velcro. Sneakers with elastic fit perfectly on the foot and are very comfortable for athletics.
Strength exercises always require tougher and harder shoes.
For playing tennis, badminton, etc. It is better to take light leather sneakers-boots, because shoes with low backs can fly off your feet.
When choosing women's sneakers, do not forget about such an important point as style and fashion. When choosing sports shoes, we should not forget that a woman should be irresistible even in the gym.
Sneakers for classes
If you decide to buy comfortable and reliable sneakers for working out in the gym, then you should follow some rules.
Once you have decided on the color and style, take the selected sneakers in your hand and check their approximate weight. Sneakers for exercise should not be heavy. Excess weight of sports shoes indicates poor quality, because natural materials for sports shoes are quite light.
Next, look carefully at the chosen shoes, look for unevenness on the seams and glue residues at the joints. If you manage to find such defects, you should not buy these shoes; they are of poor quality and will fall apart after the first lesson.
If you are choosing sneakers for training, choose shoes with a rigid back that does not wrinkle.
Next, after putting on your sneakers, stand up on your toes and look at the curve of the sole. If it is in the middle of the sole, you should not take such shoes, they will quickly tire your feet and can cause injury, and over time can lead to flat feet.
The bend should be closer to the toe; shoes with this property are comfortable and practical for training.
You should also take seriously the way the sneaker is supported on your foot; under no circumstances choose sneakers with Velcro; they are intended for hiking and treadmills, and not for serious workouts in the gym.
Take shoes with laces, but give preference to flat laces, because round ones often come undone. The advantage of sneakers with laces is that they can be fixed on your foot in a way that is comfortable for you; such shoes will not fly off or squeeze your foot like sneakers with an elastic band. Remember that the quality of your sports activities depends on the quality of your sneakers.
Indoor sneakers are not much different from regular sports sneakers; their main feature is a soft and breathable surface and a sole that can have a symmetrical pattern.
For outdoor activities, you should not take shoes with a symmetrical pattern on the sole, as they wear out quickly. To choose comfortable shoes for the gym, try bending them to test the elasticity of the sole. For the gym, it is better to take sneakers with a high level of elasticity.
