How to Choose the Best Aerobic Shoes
Aerobic Shoes
What’s the difference between aerobic shoes and running shoes? The basic difference is flexibility. Running shoes were manufactured specifically to withstand tremendous amounts of pressure and shearing stresses from running. Think of it this way- a regular runner is about 130 lbs. This translates to the same weight pressing down on the shoe every second during use.
If you would notice, running shoes seem to have a tougher sole than other rubber shoes. This allows the shoes to withstand the tremendous force that repeatedly imposes itself on the material.
Aerobic shoes on the other hand, are mainly used for their flexibility. Most aerobic exercises require the body to perform concentric movements. This means the body is always in motion- and this requires immediate yet sustained changes in leg position.
Since running shoes have harder soles and are generally less flexible than aerobic shoes, there’s a chance that you might trip or break your ankle with them.
Popular aerobic shoes
Reebok is gaining popularity nowadays with their line of aerobic shoes for women. Since men are not as selective as women during purchases, women’s aerobic shoes have more variety.
Another reason for this is that most men prefer bodybuilding to aerobics. While men go to the gym to bulk up, women go to the gym to slim down and be sexier. The Reebok Classic Freestyle Hi Shoes for Women come in a classic light purple color, and have two Velcro straps.
Fila is another popular brand of aerobic shoes. The most popular aerobic shoes from Fila is the Fila Original Fitness Sneaker. This model comes in black, and is low cut. Men are often more heavy-footed than women, and so this model gives the feet more freedom during aerobic workouts.
From Strength System comes the Strength Shoe, designed specifically for male aerobic enthusiasts. The large difference with the Strength Shoe is that there’s a large block of hard rubber on the toe side of the shoe. This means that the full weight is supported on the front while the heels and the calves need to work harder during workouts. This shoe was designed to develop muscles more efficiently in the legs and calves.
The Avia A224 on the other hand utilizes a simple design and is fit for low to middle-high intensities of workouts. The shoe is lightweight and utilizes a breathable mesh design. Retailing for about $41, this shoe is fit for teenagers who don’t need to spend that much for more comfortable aerobic shoes.
For female fans of New Balance, the brand has a new offering: the New Balance 1008 Fitness shoes. Though more expensive, New Balance is known for its durability.