Shoes

blh_1010

What type of shoes do you wear when you work out? Has anyone ever tried the new work out shoes they have at skeetchers or the foot toes shoes (or five finger shoes or something like that)? Do they really work?

jrich1

Five Fingers are mainly for running and run around $100 a pair, I wear new Balance running shoes to do my workouts, I prefer newbalance becuase I have such a wide foot, 4E width

BeeZoe

I've been through alot of shoes lol but just bought a pair of Nike Max Air running shoes and been walking, running and done kickboxing in them. They have to be the most comfortable shoes I've ever had, no breaking in and they seem to adjust my posture. Otherwise I've talked to others who have sketchers (good for basic walking and daily light acitivity but not made for actual aerobics or cardio workouts) and the "barefoot" runners (they love these, say it's just like barefeet, just make sure you size correctly, surprisingly have great support) Hope that helps a bit.

trainguy917

Shoes are extremely individual. I went through three brands before I found the best running shoes for me in Saucony Grid Hurricane, but my sister and brother-in-law run in Asics. If you have a specialty running or fitness store in your area, go to them and have them help you pick.

jaglover04

You should go to a running store that is by you, the best experience! They look at how your run and tell you what type of shoe is best so if you need more support in certain areas you have the correct shoe support! I went for the first time 2 weeks ago and got my first pair of running shoes and love them! It is also a little more motivation to use them ! Good Luck!

MrsSki

I wear New Balance shoes for running, they are the most comfortable, and very light.

I did buy the Champion version of the Sketcher's Shape-Ups, basically the Sketcher Shape Up for $40 instead of $100, got them at Payless. I like the Champion version, but they only come in all white. I think they feel the same as the Sketchers (tried them both on), and they really do work your calve and thigh muscles, but you can really only walk with them. I tried running/aerobics, and it was pretty painful. I didn't notice any weight loss, but I do feel like my leg muscles might be stronger. I have had them for about 3 months. Now I run more than I walk, so I haven't worn them in a while.

RedneckWmn

I'd reccomend going to a comfort shoe store or a walking shoe store where they measure your foot and arch and all that. They will put you in shoes that will support your feet. I wear a type of Nike's. Can't remember what they are off the top of my head. I think it's the Nike Air Max that someone posted earlier. Awesome shoes!

Chenoachem

Just for the oposite opinion. When I workout at home I wear no shoes at all. I do all my aerobics barefoot. When I hike I wear Vibram Fivefinger, which depending on the model are $65-$85 a pair. For running I go barefoot (yes, even outdoors) or I wear Asics Hyper Speeds. I really like the minimalist thing. I feel so free.

Edit: yes they fivefingers really work. But you do have to strengthen your feet first. If you are used to large arch support and wearing shoes all the time, you will have to strengthen the muscles in your feet just like any other muscle you don't use often. So you have to take it in stride.

Barneystinson

Just for the oposite opinion. When I workout at home I wear no shoes at all. I do all my aerobics barefoot. When I hike I wear Vibram Fivefinger, which depending on the model are $65-$85 a pair. For running I go barefoot (yes, even outdoors) or I wear Asics Hyper Speeds. I really like the minimalist thing. I feel so free.

:drinker:

I'm also a barefoot at-home worker-outer. If I need traction during a workout, I'll put on my VFF's. I also wear my VFF's for any water activities - kayaking, boating, etc. as well as hiking. If I'm running around in the grass or sand, it's barefoot all the way. For running or walking, I like a little more cushion and have been wearing Nike Frees with success.

bloblynda

I love my Nike. I've had four pairs and they've been superb running shoes. But you have to make your own choice of what is right for your feet and running style

Kath15

The MBTs, Sketcher Shape-ups, New Balance Easy Tones,etc are really meant for just walking. They are supposed to be good for toning, good posture, and lower back issues. The type of shoes you get really depend on what activities you plan on doing with them. I have Nike Zoom Quick Sister + shoes that I love though they are really meant for the gym and not outdoor use. They are very lightweight and have a flexible diamond sole which is nice. They don't have a lot of arch support so they are not meant for vigorous running. But, if you plan on running a lot you should probably go to a specialty running store just like others have suggested. My husband is a runner and he has both Asics and Mizunos which were recommended and he likes. Also, remember to buy shoes that are a half size larger if you plan to run or be on your feet for long periods of time because feet swell. Good luck!

glfprncs2

Whatever shoe you choose, be sure to wear an appropriate shoe for the exercise you're doing. If your cardio workout involves plyometric leaping and lateral, a running shoe wouldn't be a good choice...they're not designed for impact in the ball of the foot or for lateral stability.

I wear Asics runners and the Saucony Grid Virtue for my gym/fitness workouts.

simona1972

I tend to buy Reeboks because of their fit. Nikes are way too narrow for my feet. Im thinking of buying a pair of the KSwiss Tubes.

Mellie13

I used to be die hard Nike fan, but then I went to a shoe store where they actually know what they are talking about & was won over to Saucony's. I love them!!!! They are also pretty inexpensive for what you get because they don't really advertise or have super star athletes to endorse the product. They are technically a running shoe, but I do the machines, etc in them. They are awesome!

disneyfetishboy

I had a history of foot problems, but have come over to adopt the "barefoot is better" philosophy. I try to exercise barefoot, but it's not always advisable or practical (e.g. gym requires shoes). For those occasions, I wear minimalist shoes (including Vibram Five Fingers and Terra Plana EVOs). I have used them for martial arts, basketball, cross-training, and other activities as well with good results.

But as others have mentioned, you need to transition to barefooting slowly and strengthen your feet, ankles, and calves. For me, it has been well worth the work because I have avoided injuries and foot/ankle pain that previously kept me from exercising, and improved my athletic performance at the same time.

Chenoachem

Just for the oposite opinion. When I workout at home I wear no shoes at all. I do all my aerobics barefoot. When I hike I wear Vibram Fivefinger, which depending on the model are $65-$85 a pair. For running I go barefoot (yes, even outdoors) or I wear Asics Hyper Speeds. I really like the minimalist thing. I feel so free.

:drinker:

I'm also a barefoot at-home worker-outer. If I need traction during a workout, I'll put on my VFF's. I also wear my VFF's for any water activities - kayaking, boating, etc. as well as hiking. If I'm running around in the grass or sand, it's barefoot all the way. For running or walking, I like a little more cushion and have been wearing Nike Frees with success.

I find the Nike Frees interesting. I know other people that like them too. I found that they had to much arch support. I actually pronated in them, when I don't in FF's or the Asics Hyper speeds. Do you find the frees comfortable for long runs?