LOVE YOUR FEET MORE
You might not yet know how cool your feet can be. Shoes can be surprisingly brilliant at helping you to feel more agile, give you balance, better form, and therefore better outcomes in practicing and developing your body.
I am often asked for shoe recommendations, so here is my usual list. Please be advised that I usually like to check the links to be current and leading to the right show, so if you find that not to be the case, please let me know and I’ll update it.
A few ideas on trainers. I’ve picked these for function and shape to give you ideas on what to look for.
A top tip is to take the inner out of the trainers and stand on it with your bare foot. It’s a very visual way to see how much space your toes should have to feel connection with the floor, space to move. Ideally for gym you need a versatile gym/ training shoe or cross trainer. Running shoes tend to have toes curling up or big fat cushioned soles, which aren’t great for the gym/ cross training. There are lots of different price ranges, and brands. To give you an idea of what decent ones look like here’s a few to demo- (PS these are not affiliate links, I make nothing from sharing these with you).
We’re looking for:
- Great width on the broadest bit of the toe knuckles.
- Space for toes to move and press into the ground.
- A toe end that can push into the ground (running shoes tend to arc upwards). Sole can root into the ground.
- Minimal heel/ heel rise (note – this does not have to be barefoot shoe-like). This is to feel the ground and not rock heel to toe. Less padding underfoot.
- Structure and support.
- Does your bare foot fit naturally in the insole, or do your toes ‘leak’ over the edges (if they do – the toes space is not ideal).]
- Can your shoes move with you?
- Good quality lacing.
Most are found in the category ‘cross trainers‘.
NIKE METCON (Not the 4’s)
Note, the design can look like the heel is raised, but the ‘plastic’ bit is just for looks.
REEBOK NANO (not the adventure or hiit ones)
Inov8 (versatile cross trainers )
PUMA
These look ok. I’ve tried a similar one and they were a little softer than my preferred kinds, but that may suit you.
UNDER ARMOUR
I’d suggest the Reign our project Rock ones here. Others have large heels/ or turned up toes.
ADIDAS
I’d suggest the Drop set (but be warned about the mess/ hole in the sole – only inside the gym shoes. Everyset looks ok.
Avoid sketchers or anything describing itself as a running shoe (or cardio shoe). You don’t need proper lifters either.
I’ve sometimes found ones I really like in outlets on eBay or Amazon too.
Most of the above do sales several times a year too.
Happy shopping.
