How do you choose the right shoe for the activities you do?

I work out regularly at the health club. My activities includes:

1. Brisk walking/running (5.5Kmph/9Kmph) on the treadmill -> 30-40 mins - 4 times a week
2. Cross-trainer in aerobics mode with a intensity ranging from 18-20 -> 30 mins - Everyday
3. Step Aerobics -> 1 hr - 4 times a week
4. Circuit training -> 30 mins - Everyday - I do exercises like Burpees, jumping jacks, frog tuck, planks, etc
5. Zumba -> 1 hr - 3 times a week
6. Cardio Kickboxing -> 1 hr - Once a week

What kind of shoe will work best for me? What to look out for when I choose one? The last time I bought my pair, I didn't give so much thought. I understand it's importance now. My toes pain or feel numb after some workout.

Thanks.

Replies

  • I work out regularly at the health club. My activities includes:

    1. Brisk walking/running (5.5Kmph/9Kmph) on the treadmill -> 30-40 mins - 4 times a week
    2. Cross-trainer in aerobics mode with a intensity ranging from 18-20 -> 30 mins - Everyday
    3. Step Aerobics -> 1 hr - 4 times a week
    4. Circuit training -> 30 mins - Everyday - I do exercises like Burpees, jumping jacks, frog tuck, planks, etc
    5. Zumba -> 1 hr - 3 times a week
    6. Cardio Kickboxing -> 1 hr - Once a week

    What kind of shoe will work best for me? What to look out for when I choose one? The last time I bought my pair, I didn't give so much thought. I understand it's importance now. My toes pain or feel numb after some workout.

    Thanks.



    EDIT: Please suggest something from Skechers..
  • GMANDREWK
    GMANDREWK Posts: 8 Member
    I have worn Nike's since my college days and have been really happy with anything that has the "Air" sole in it. I most recently have been wearing Monarch Air Nike which is a cross trainer. I have tried on others brands, but they all seem to be too narrow. The one word of caution is that the air sole does eventually wear out, my guess is that some or all of the air leaks out and the shoe loses it cushion feel. My wife who has heel spurs, also wears Nike's with the Air sole and has been pretty pleased. But again they do go flat in a sense and you will know by their feel when they need to be replaced.

    I find that the Monarch is a good shoe for all type of activity. I use them on the elliptical trainer, in the weight room, on the basketball and tennis court. Good luck, don't be afraid to spend the extra money for the Air Soles and your feet will thank you.
    George in Pittsburgh
  • tiny_clanger
    tiny_clanger Posts: 301 Member
    I went to a specialist shop and bought a shoe (primarily for running).

    Having supported someone suffering from debilitating plantar fasciitis (to the point they could no longer walk their feet were in so much pain) from exercising in improper footwear, I'd advise you to do the same. Your feet are so important - trust me, you will not be able to exercise if you feel like someone is stabbing you in the feet, if you're not sleeping because of your feet, etc.
  • EvgeniZyntx
    EvgeniZyntx Posts: 24,208 Member
    Depends on the activity - in general, if you are seeing toe pain the toe box or shoe size isn't large enough. Counter shoe slide or looseness by proper lacing and tightness. Go to a store, get fitted.

    And personally I'd never suggest Skechers. The ones I've seen in the past are not running quality shoes, but it appears they've upped their game. Read reviews ....

    http://runblogger.com/2011/09/skechers-go-run-review-first.html
  • GMANDREWK wrote: »
    I have worn Nike's since my college days and have been really happy with anything that has the "Air" sole in it. I most recently have been wearing Monarch Air Nike which is a cross trainer. I have tried on others brands, but they all seem to be too narrow. The one word of caution is that the air sole does eventually wear out, my guess is that some or all of the air leaks out and the shoe loses it cushion feel. My wife who has heel spurs, also wears Nike's with the Air sole and has been pretty pleased. But again they do go flat in a sense and you will know by their feel when they need to be replaced.

    I find that the Monarch is a good shoe for all type of activity. I use them on the elliptical trainer, in the weight room, on the basketball and tennis court. Good luck, don't be afraid to spend the extra money for the Air Soles and your feet will thank you.
    George in Pittsburgh


    Thank you. :) Points noted.
  • I went to a specialist shop and bought a shoe (primarily for running).

    Having supported someone suffering from debilitating plantar fasciitis (to the point they could no longer walk their feet were in so much pain) from exercising in improper footwear, I'd advise you to do the same. Your feet are so important - trust me, you will not be able to exercise if you feel like someone is stabbing you in the feet, if you're not sleeping because of your feet, etc.


    Whenever I bought a pair of sports shoe, the only point I used to look is the sole size at heel & toe and of course made sure it fitted well. But, this time I'm being a bit more careful at what I choose.

    Points noted. Thank you. :)
  • Depends on the activity - in general, if you are seeing toe pain the toe box or shoe size isn't large enough. Counter shoe slide or looseness by proper lacing and tightness. Go to a store, get fitted.

    And personally I'd never suggest Skechers. The ones I've seen in the past are not running quality shoes, but it appears they've upped their game. Read reviews ....

    http://runblogger.com/2011/09/skechers-go-run-review-first.html

    Thank you. Points noted. :)
    I have a friend who recently bought a pair from Skechers & she was happy with it. But, after reading reviews now, I better try other kinds too.