Did you know that there are different types of athletic shoes? Sure, you can wear the same pair of shoes for different activities, but you’re doing more harm than good.

Buying for your foot shape is key to finding a comfortable and supportive shoe. And you want to be comfortable when you hit the gym so you can get the most out of your workout.

Learn more about how your foot shape matters and discover how to find the perfect pair of gym shoes for you.

Why Your Foot Shape Matters

There are three different arch types and knowing your type can help you understand why you feel various kinds of pain. For example, have you ever experienced shin splints? If so, improper footwear may have been to blame.

Even if you don’t experience pain, understanding your foot shape can help you find a more supportive shoe. The right support reduces shock and promotes proper body alignment.

You may think that you don’t need special shoes because you’re going to the gym and not exercising outside. But it’s just as important to have the right footwear indoors. You want a supportive shoe with a good grip to prevent injuries.

The best athletic shoes for you may vary depending on the activity. Some shoes are versatile, but the type of shoe you need for a dance class may not be the same one you want for the treadmill.

What Type of Athletic Shoe Do I Need?

Finding the best shoe for you depends on both your foot shape and the activities you take part in at the gym. Some shoes provide more cushion and shock absorption while others have a better grip.

Below are some common types of exercise shoes.

Running

If you plan on running on the track or the treadmill, you need running shoes. This type of athletic shoe provides more cushion and shock absorption so you’re putting less stress on your joints and body.

Avoid any shoes that feel too tight or pinch anywhere. You also want to make sure your laces are staying tied and snug around your foot while running.

Not sure where to begin with so many choices and styles? Check out this shoe review for a normal-width shoe perfect for both beginners and competitive runners.

Wide-Width Shoes

Depending on the type of foot you have, a wide-width shoe may feel more comfortable. Certain brands have specialty wide-shoe sizes for both men and women.

Not sure whether you have narrow feet or wide feet?

To find out, you can measure your feet at home by tracing your foot on a piece of paper. Once you have your foot traced, measure and compare it to a shoe chart. Another option is to have them measured in an athletic shoe store.

Weight Lifting

When lifting weights at the gym, you need a solid grip on the ground. Since proper form is so important, you want flat shoes that grip well. For this reason, you want to skip the thick-soled shoes and stick with a flatter style.

Cardio Class

If you’re participating in a cardio class at the gym like Zumba or Boot Camp, you’ll be doing a lot of moving around and high-intensity routines. support is important, but you also want shoes with a strong grip.

Shoes that offer movement in the toe area like those with a wide toe box are ideal for classes like these. Try to avoid shoes with too much padding and opt for lightweight styles. Mesh shoes can also provide greater breathability during an intense workout.

Signs You’re Wearing the Wrong Shoe

Buying cheap shoes might be easier on your budget, but more often than not cheap shoes don’t fit well. And ill-fitting shoes cause all sorts of problems from foot pain to blisters.

If you have any of these problems with your current shoes, it’s time to ditch them and buy another pair.

• Blisters
• Heel pain (plantar fasciitis)
• Stress fractures
• Shin splints
• Inflamed tendons (tendonitis)

Wearing the wrong type of shoe is as bad as wearing worn-down shoes. You can often tell if your sneakers are too old by looking at them. Look for worn-out soles or holes.

If your shoes don’t feel comfortable or provide enough support, that’s a sign you need to replace them.

Tips for Buying Your New Gym Shoes

If you plan on buying your shoes online, make sure you find out your foot type first. You can do this with the wet test. To measure your foot, trace it with a pencil and paper and measure across using a size chart for reference.

Understanding the type of arch you have as well as whether you have wide or narrow feet helps you find the best fit.

Though when it comes to finding your fit, it’s best to get a professional athletic shoe fitting. This way, you can discover the best shoe for you based on your gait, stride, weight, and other factors.

Your feet change over time so make sure to measure them often. Measuring them once or twice a year is a good rule of thumb.

Trying your shoes on in the store tends to be better than buying them online. This way you can see how they feel and try walking around in them first.

Because your feet swell throughout the day, it’s best to go shopping later in the day. This is because you want your shoes to fit your feet even at their largest size.

If you head to a specialty store, you can always ask for assistance picking out your new sneakers.

Hit the Gym in Style and Comfort

The next time you head to the gym, make sure you’ve got the right pair of athletic shoes.

To find the best gym shoes for you, take a look at your feet. Everything from your arch to the width of your foot affects the type of shoe you need.

The best athletic shoes offer both support and durability. Depending on your workout routine, you may need a few different pairs for different activities. Don’t make the mistake of using the same pair of shoes for everything.

Looking for more workout or healthy living tips? Be sure to check our blog often for more advice and articles like this one.