I’ll be honest – there’s not going to be a whole lot of faith in a post about sneakers. Lots of “run your race” analogies, sure, but really? I just love shoes and wanted to share the three kinds of sneakers I think every gal needs in her closet. For the longest time I assumed I’d be just fine in any old pair of sneakers. I didn’t really know if I was going to commit to this whole fitness thing, and it seemed like a huge investment for something that went on my feet for 30 minutes a day.
Because mama can’t endorse the athletic sneakers with jeans look. Nope. Can’t do it. On very rare occasions – like hiking in the woods or walking for hours through amusement parks I’ve done it. But there will be no photos to prove it.
Moving on.
One of the things I’ve realized this year is that certain things are worth the investment. My health is one of them. I’d rather pay more now to get healthy and stay healthy than to pay a doctor a lot more money later to try to fix what I’ve broken. And if I’m going to invest, I want to make sure I’m getting the most out of my money. Which might make three pairs of sneakers still seem excessive, but I’ll explain.
Pair #1 – The Cross Trainer
This all-purpose sneaker is build to serve a variety of workout purposes. Not a running shoe (which is built to pitch your stride forward) and not a dance sneaker (we’ll get to that one), but a great, supportive sneaker for those 21 Day Fix, Insanity, or T25 workouts you love to do. And Hammer & Chisel once it comes out in December 😉 I have a pair like these Under Armor cross trainers that I love. I only wear them to workout at home, and they are the perfect combination of light weight, support, and comfort. Plus I’m a sucker for a bright color sneaker.
Pair #2 – The Dance Sneaker
Whether you’re into CIZE, Zumba, or Refit, a good pair of dance sneakers will save you sore knees and ankles. Regular cross trainers and running shoes aren’t build to pivot on smooth surfaces the way a dance sneaker can. They’re actually built to keep you from sliding around, but when you get in the groove and want to bust a move? The last thing you want to do is trip over your own feet. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect pair, but right now I’m wearing a pair of Ryka Influence. They have more comfort and support than the Zumba brand I had before (which also fell apart after a few months of wear) but they’re too loose in the heel for my narrow feet. These Adidas high tops are on my wishlist, if they ever get my size back in stock. The glitter. SWOON. Ideally you want to make sure the bottom of the shoes you wear for a dance workout are smooth, and a circular pivot point is ideal. That will help you make quick turns without straining your joints.
Pair #3 – The Every Day Sneaker
Sometimes I just need a pair of sneakers to wear outside to do yard work, or head to the greenhouse, or run through an airport. I don’t want to wear my cross trainers because I like to keep those as “indoor” sneakers (helps me not track dirt all over the floor when I go from garden work to working out). The dance sneakers are strictly worn to & from CIZE or Zumba, so those won’t work. Enter: Chucks. I thought I was all smart getting the super cheap $14 knocks off at Target a couple months ago, but listen. Unless you also happen to own a bottle of Gorilla Glue (we did) and are unafraid to use it (I was), you’ll be tossing those shoes when the fabric splits apart from the sole of the shoe. Mine are so permanently attached that they’ll never again be torn asunder, but really? Just invest in the real thing. I’m also loving these from Toms now, and really hope I can convince hubs {hint…please..size 8} to get them for me as an anniversary present 😉
I also feel like I need to encourage you to include one barefoot workout into your practice each week. Whether it’s pilates, yoga, or PiYo – try something new. Slow down, stretch it out, and ditch the shoes. It’s a great way to refocus and recenter before jumping back in the next day.
I’d love to know what your favorite workout shoes are? Are there any I just HAVE to try for Zumba next time?
