There is no better choice than cross training shoes for people who lead an active, athletic life. These versatile shoes are ideal for performing a host of athletic activities like sports, aerobics, gymming, and more. If you’re looking for the perfect pair of shoes for cross training, the tips discussed in this post are sure to help.
A lot of people like to mix up their workouts on a regular basis. From cycling, gymming, sports, to aerobics, they enjoy a host of athletic activities to keep themselves healthy and active. While there are now shoes created for specific activities, there are other versatile ones that are compatible with a host of athletic activities.
Known as cross-training shoes, they are durable, functional, and ideal for a healthy mix of athletic activities. But as these shoes are different than other types of training shoes, the factors affecting your selection are different as well.
If you’re looking to buy a pair of shoes for cross training, these are the five things you should keep in mind-
- The Shape of your Foot
The shape of your foot is one of the most important considerations when selecting shoes for cross training. Examine whether you have flat feet or high arches.
People with flat feet find more comfort in neutral or stability shoes. Go for a cushioned sole if you have high arches. This will ensure that you have better control and comfort in all the different activities you perform.
- Supportive Uppers
Supportive and stable upper is a significant characteristic of shoes designed for cross-training. The uppers in such shoes are generally supportive and stable to offer better comfort.
You can go for a pair with breathable upper material if your feet get sweaty while working out. For added support, prefer pairs with leather uppers.
- The Outsole of the Shoe
Outsoles play a critical role in absorbing impact and providing a cushion to the wearer in training shoes. It is better to go with a pair that has durable but lightweight outsole.
However, one of the biggest difference between a running shoe and a cross-training shoe is the sole of both of these types of shoes. A good cross training shoes have a lower heel drop or lowered midsole making them flatter than the running shoes; perfect for giving increased stability required especially during the side-to-side movements. It should be made of a non-marking material to ensure that you don’t leave black marks on the training floor.
- Selecting the Right Fit
Know the exact UK/EU size of shoes that give you a snug fit. If you go with a bigger size, you might have to suffer from painful and pesky blisters. If the shoe you select is smaller than what you need, you’ll suffer from a great deal of pain in your toes and feet.
If you’re buying the shoe online, ensure that you try it as soon as it arrives. Wear your training socks, and try to walk around in your new shoes. Do not rely on breaking them in. If they’re not comfortable, prefer returning them.
- Check Online Reviews
Once you’re done with the factors discussed above and shortlisted a few options, the last thing left to do is to go through the user reviews. The quality of the cross-training shoes will have a significant impact on the comfort and quality of your workouts.
Thus, it is better to go for a reputable brand. There should be a warranty on the product and easy returns in case of an online purchase.
Get Going
Keep the points mentioned above in mind when buying shoes for cross training, and you’re sure to make a great decision. Most importantly, make sure that you replace the shoes every 80-100 training hours to ensure that you continue experiencing maximum comfort and stability throughout your workouts.