The Ultimate Sneaker Guide + Promo Code

When I first started working out for realz I owned one pair of sneakers. Every few months I would arbitrarily choose a new pair of sneaks based on what I thought was cute, what was trendy (remember Nike Shox!?!?) and what was comfortable. I couldn’t tell you the difference between a running shoe and one that was more appropriate for zumba. In fact, I ran my first 5K in said Nike Shox which was a terrible, terrible idea.

I was also wearing a cotton t-shirt. Get it together, Kayla of 2011!

The truth is, all sneakers are not created equal and some are more suited for particular workouts. I’ve become really really obsessive about not wearing my running shoes for any other activity besides running. I’m also particular about which shoes I wear for which class I’m taking. A class that is danced based requires a different sneaker than a class that’s more CrossFit-y.

When I hung out with Shoebuy a few weeks ago I was super intrigued by our discussion of which shoe is good for which workout. Their sneaker expert and SVP of Merchandising Sean Scales was kind enough to break it down for me based on some of the popular workouts and which sneaker he highly recommends. It definitely made me realize that I’m not always wearing the best sneaker for my workout which is no bueno because it leaves me at risk for injury.

 

For Cardio Dance Classes: Ryka RZX

For cardio heavy classes with a lot of lateral movements like 305 Fitness or intenSati you are on the balls of your feet and will want some extra forefoot cushioning. You also want to look for an omni-directional outsole pattern to accommodate all the pivoting, lunges, etc. Different than a running shoe, your shoe for cardio classes should provide more lateral support as well.

 

For the Obstacle Runner: Reebok All Terrain Thunder 2.0, Salomon Speedcross 3 or New Balance Zero V2 Trail

When I ran Mudderella in May I ended up tossing my sneakers at the finish line. If you’re participating in a few mud/ obstacle runs that’s probably not a good idea. Who has that many shoes they don’t care about? The obstacle runner should focus on trail shoes, which offer an outsole pattern that provides uphill and downhill traction. You’ll want to look for durable uppers that can handle the weather conditions you might face, and the sole should feature larger lugs for extra grip in muddy and loose terrain.

Shoes specifically designed for trail running or mud runs also have unique technology that allows for draining. I definitely could have used this during Mudderella. After that first mud bath my shoes felt like they weighed a ton.

 

For the Runner: This one is a toughy. If you’re going to be pounding the pavement frequently or training for a race, I highly highly recommend getting fitted.

There are a bunch of nuances to define what type of runner you are – beginner, distance, surface, pronator, non-pronator. Once you know your foot a little bit better you can start choosing running shoes based on those categories. I know for myself I prefer a neutral running shoe.

Neutral Running Shoes: These are appropriate for those who haven’t had any knee or shin issues in the past or don’t overpronate: ASICS Gel Nimbus 16, Brooks Launch, Brooks Glycerin or New Balance 890-v5

Stability Running Shoes: These will offer a more stable ride, usually with moderate support, and are a better fit for those that are mild to moderate overpronators: ASICS Gel Kayano 21, Saucony Guide 8 or New Balance v1260v4

 

 

For HIIT Classes: Asics Gel-Craze TR 2 and New Balance WX811

HIIT classes are huge in NYC right now- think The Fhitting Room and Exceed. These workouts are kind of all over the place in the sense that they combine strength movements (kettlebells, body weight movements and TRX) with cardio intervals (burpees, burpees and more burpees). You need a shoe that’s supportive, but not overly clunky and corrective like running shoes tend to be.   What’s really cool about the New Balance model is the FantomTape upper which is inspired by kinesiology tape.

 

So, are you wearing the right shoes for your workout? Did I put you in the shopping mood? ShoeBuy kindly offered discount of 20% off to all KITC readers– not limited to just these sneakers. Just enter the code SBKAYLACITY at check out.  Expires 7/28/15 at 11:59PM PST, some exclusions apply.

 

And in unrelated sneaker news: I really want to check out the sneaker exhibit “The Rise of Sneaker Culture” at the Brooklyn Museum.