CHOOSING THE RIGHT GYM SHOES

Now that you’ve carefully chosen the perfect workout outfit, it’s time to take a close look at your workout shoes (that’s right, bend over and look at those feet!). Do your runners fit your lifestyle?  

Something that comes up often in determining your clothing needs is what type of exercise you’ll be doing with your shoes.

The good news is, if you’re planning to do yoga, you can move on to the next step—unless you’re the type who always wants the latest technology, or have your heart set on non-slip half-toe shoes or non-slip yoga socks. In my opinion, a good mat is all you need for a good yoga practice.

👟 RUNNING SHOES

For the runners out there, whether you run outdoors or on a treadmill, you’ll definitely need running shoes, which you can find at a big-box sports store or at one of many specialized running stores. Why are running shoes a must? Because they are designed to provide unilateral support, which often makes the shoes lighter and more flexible. The sole is also made to absorb and dissipate impacts, depending on the running technique. Your shoes should stand up to 600 to 800 km of running, which, for a regular runner, is about 8 months.

 

For runners who don’t run daily or keep a detailed distance log, you should watch for signs that your shoes are giving out on you, such as a loss of comfort or unexplained, non-specific pain in your joints.

👟 CROSS-TRAINING AND STRENGTH-TRAINING SHOES

For everyone else—people who take group classes, or follow traditional strength-training or functional exercise programs, or even the latest Internet workout trends—you should go with a multisport shoe. Just remember not to pick your shoes just because you like the colour! Some models will be better than others depending on your sport. If you have any questions, your shoe consultant at your favourite store should be able to help you.

Strength training requires a more rigid, wider sole than group classes, which need better lateral support for your feet and ankles. Actually, these last two points are what differentiate running shoes from multisport shoes. Since the latter are generally more robust, they should last you up to a year. Watch for the same signs as running shoes to know when it’s time for a new pair.

Remember! Before buying your dream shoes, determine the sport or physical activity you will be using them for. And feel free to ask the expert at your favourite footwear store for help and advice.