Need help choosing new cross-train shoes!

rexy915
rexy915 Posts: 10
edited October 6 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi - I'm looking to get some new shoes, but I don't want strict running shoes. I need to be able to do plyometric jumping, side to side moves, in addition to running.

Any favorites?

(they need to look awesome too)

;)

Replies

  • shellbell525
    shellbell525 Posts: 80 Member
    I have a pair of kswiss tubes that i like a lot. There's plenty of cushion for jumping around.
  • jwintonyk
    jwintonyk Posts: 40 Member
    I have the New Balance Minimus and Vibram Five Fingers that I do all my circuits in, I love them. I don't run long distances in the though, 5-8km max and that's with the Minimus...
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    Why can't you do those things in running shoes? Just get a pair with a little more cushion if you're worried about the jumping.
  • Why can't you do those things in running shoes? Just get a pair with a little more cushion if you're worried about the jumping.

    I read somewhere... and now I can't remember where... that shoes designed for JUST running don't offer the right support as far as cushioning to help with the impact of jumping and support your ankles. I could probably look at some more cushioned ones though...
  • HollyMac20
    HollyMac20 Posts: 259 Member
    Finding the right shoes is super important. I would have never believed it either a few years ago, but as I get into more specialized and challenging movements, I notice a different.

    A running shoes is designed for support front to back. I went to a fancy running store once and they told me that you just know when you put on your running shoe. It is like finding the pair of perfect jeans, they just fit and you know it. I have a pair of New Balance 1080s for my running shoe, love them!

    As for a cross training shoe, I have had a couple pairs. Currently I am wearing Merrell Lithe Gloves. They are a barefoot style shoe. Perfect for jumps, side to side motion, lifts, jump rope and other plyo/body weight movements. I don't notice them on my feet, but they also provide unbelievable support to my foot. Before I was wearing Nike Flywires (?) and have also purchased and really love, espeically for plyo (I was doing Insanity), a Nike Training shoes. They were all white and almost looked like a dance shoe. Definately not a running shoes, but great for training.

    If you can swing a pair of each, I believe your feet will thank you. Depending on your exercise, intensity, duration and frequency I may ever say it is a must. Also, it is super important to replace your shoes after about 100 hours of wear, espeically for high impact activity. I started to develop arch and foot pain and knew it was time for new shoes.

    Most stores are very good about returning shoes as well. I have brought back many pairs of cross trainers after doing a class in them, knowing they weren't the ticket.
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    Why can't you do those things in running shoes? Just get a pair with a little more cushion if you're worried about the jumping.

    I read somewhere... and now I can't remember where... that shoes designed for JUST running don't offer the right support as far as cushioning to help with the impact of jumping and support your ankles. I could probably look at some more cushioned ones though...
    That may be the case for light-weight race shoes that border on minimalist shoes, but running shoes come in all shapes and sizes with all types of support options - over and under pronators, high arches, flat feet, high cushion, firm sole, etc etc.
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