Cross training is a great way to exercise a wide range of muscle groups in your body for the best results. For that, you also need a versatile shoe, so a cross training shoe that is designed for this type of exercise is the best option.
With so many different types and brands of cross training shoes to choose from, it is not easy to find a pair that suits you. That is why we created this buying guide to make it easier to find the best cross training shoes for you.
Find out how to choose the right cross training shoes so you can have the best overall results.
How To Choose the Best Cross Training Shoes
Many elements must be considered to get a pair of the best cross training shoes. One of the main factors that may impact the type of cross training shoes you select is your type of feet.
We will first take a look at the different types of feet so you can make a more informed decision when selecting cross training shoes.
Different Foot Types
There are three main foot types for athletics and finding the right type of training shoes for your feet.
Neutral Feet
A neutral runner is most common and is where the runner impacts the heel first and rolls the foot forward until the final forward impact. When the foot rolls forward from the heel in the gait cycle, it distributes the impact evenly across the forefoot, which is normal.
Overpronation
This is when the foot rolls; instead of the normal forward motion, it rolls more to the inside of the foot. Medical experts also commonly know this as the flat foot, which may cause injuries if not careful.
Underpronation
With underpronation feet, the opposite of overpronation happens when walking or running where the feet have insufficient inward rolling, also known as supination. This might be caused by feet with higher than normal arches or weakness in certain muscles.
Now that we have that technical detail out of the way let’s focus on choosing cross training shoes.
Now We Can Choose
There are a few factors about cross training shoes that need to be investigated when making a choice.
Your Foot Arch
When selecting the right shoe for you, you should consider the height of the arch of the cross training shoe. There are three main foot arch types: a flat arch, a high arch, and a neutral arch. This will determine the height of cross training shoe arches.
If the shoe’s arch feels too low or too high, it will impact your overall performance while training. So, you need to find the perfect shoe with just enough arch to make the shoe fit comfortably and not put too much strain on your foot.
Shoe Outer Sole Construction
You should pay attention to the overall construction of a cross training shoe while shopping and fitting. At the bottom of the shoes, you need ample cushioning from the outer soles so they can absorb the shock.
The outer sole of the cross training shoes should also be strong enough to last for more than just a few months. It must be made from durable rubber or a combination of rubber materials that are durable enough. Carbon rubber is a durable and lightweight material.
The Cross Training Shoe Upper
The upper of a cross training shoe must be strong enough to withstand rough handling and the different training disciplines. Leather is used to support your foot, especially your ankles, to prevent injuries, but it is a bit heavy.
On the other hand, strong and durable but very lightweight synthetic mesh materials provide much better breathability options for your feet. Many of the top range cross training shoes on the market use a combination of these materials for the upper.
A Proper Fit
A very important factor when it comes to cross training shoes is the overall fit of the shoe on your feet. You should leave ample space in the toe area to provide enough wiggling space for your feet inside the shoes.
It should also be wide enough so your feet will fit snugly but not too tight around the toes, the midsole, and the heel. To find the right shoes, you may need to fit many different shoe types and brands until you are satisfied.
When fitting your shoes, you should be able to walk around or have a trial run with them to ensure they fit comfortably. If you do a few exercises, your feet will be slightly swollen, the same as when you train.
Make sure your feet are measured when finding the perfect fit for your foot type. Ask for a gait analysis from the shoe fitter when you try on your shoes so you can make the right choice.
Summing It Up
- Before buying, make sure the arch of the cross training shoes is a perfect fit for your foot type.
- The material used for the sole of your shoe will determine whether it will last long enough when training.
- Proper cushioning is needed from the sole to absorb the impact energy.
- A durable and strong upper is required from a cross training shoe so it will support your feet.
- Make sure your feet have enough space inside the shoe without feeling cramped.
- Get your feet measured before trying any new shoes.
Conclusion
Finding the right fit for cross training shoes will be much easier now that you know what to look for when trying on new shoes. Hopefully, this guide will help you find the perfect cross training shoes so you can have the best results from them while training.