How to choose sneakers for everyday wear: tips for choosing. Choosing men's sneakers: tips and tricks How to choose the color of sneakers

Sneakers occupy a special place in the wardrobe of a modern active girl. High-quality sports shoes turn training into real pleasure, protect your feet from injury, and look stylish and bright. Let's figure out how to choose the right sneakers without paying a fortune for them!

Before choosing a model based on color and design (which is what you want to do first), think about what kind of workouts you need shoes for. Whether you will be running, doing aerobics or going to the gym in your new sneakers. Major brands produce separate lines of each type of sneaker. They differ in the design of the sole, the materials used, and other parameters.

For running

Running involves significant stress on the joints and ligaments of the ankle. Accordingly, good running shoes have a number of features.

First of all, they must absorb the impact of the foot on the surface, that is, have good shock absorption. And it is ensured by a thick elastic sole. The harder the surface you are running on, the more important this criterion is. Most running models have elastic inserts under the heel. The best option is special thickenings under the heel and under the metatarsal part of the foot, that is, under the bone of the big toe.

Flexibility of the sole is also important, especially in the forefoot. When trying on sneakers, roll your foot from heel to toe several times. You will perform these movements regularly while jogging. The sole and upper part of the boot should bend easily in the right places, following the contours of the foot.

The abrasion resistance of the sole is also important. The criterion is important if you are going to run on asphalt. This issue is often solved by adding inserts of a denser material to the toe and heel portions of the sole surface.

The heel portion of the boot upper may have rigid elements to stabilize the foot. This is not necessary, the main thing is that the sneaker fits perfectly on your foot. That is, the foot should not dangle from side to side.

The upper part of running shoes is made of fabric materials. Running in leather or rubberized sneakers will be hot and uncomfortable.

If you are going to run in the gym, choose the lightest, breathable model. For jogging outside in cold, damp weather, you should prefer an option with a denser upper material. You won’t be able to kill two birds with one stone - light, thin materials quickly get wet, but remove excess heat well. And denser moisture-resistant fabrics will not allow your feet to breathe fully.

When choosing a size, leave a margin of 3–4 mm. That is, there should be a small space left in the toe box. If your big toe rests on the front of the shoe, it can cause nail injuries when running. That is, you will have to forget about a beautiful pedicure.

For aerobics and group training

In many ways, these sneakers are similar to running models. They should have good cushioning, be light and comfortable.

An important criterion is the flexibility of the sole and good ankle support. Mobile group training involves not only relatively monotonous steps, as when running, but also active movements from right to left, turns, jumps, climbing steps, etc. That is, the variability of movements, and, accordingly, the risk of injury increases.

Therefore, when trying on a model, bend your ankle to the right and left, try to push to the side, feel how well the shoe fits on your foot.

There are special models for dancing. Their peculiarity is that the sole is divided into two parts - the heel and toe. And in the middle part of the foot the sole is very thin. This provides maximum flexibility to the boot.

For the gym

When choosing sneakers for strength training in the gym, you need to be guided by completely different criteria than for running shoes.

What is important here is not shock absorption (you won’t be jumping with a barbell and dumbbells), but maximum stability of the foot.

The sole of sneakers for the gym should be smooth, without pronounced thickening under the heel or toe, and relatively thin. The bottom of the heel should be wider than the top. When lifting weights, your feet should be horizontal and stable.

Choose a thin and breathable upper material - you definitely won’t freeze in the gym, but you can easily sweat.

It is also important that the sole does not slip and has good grip on the surface.

For yoga and gentle fitness

Many trainers encourage their clients to do yoga, Pilates or stretching without shoes at all. But this will not always be comfortable for everyone. A compromise option is shoes with thick, non-slip soles and open toes.

When choosing shoes for soft fitness, the principle is this: the thinner and less noticeable a sneaker or slipper is on the foot, the better.

Thin flexible sole, light elastic upper fabric. Shoes should allow you to freely bend your foot in any direction without slipping off your feet.

Some yoga models have additional ties or elastic bands for a soft fit on the leg.

For walking around the city

Everything is very simple here. Shoes should be comfortable and match your clothing style. You can choose both sports and walking sneakers. Leather and rubberized models will save you from dampness, insulated winter ones made of suede and thick fabrics will keep you warm in the cold, and light and bright summer models will cheer you up in the warm and sunny period of the year!

How not to overpay?

I will not advise anyone to buy sneakers for training on unverified Chinese sites or choose little-known manufacturers. Well-known brands value their reputation and strive to make high-quality and comfortable shoes. Another thing is that such shoes are always expensive. So what to do?

The answer is simple - buy sneakers during official promotions and sales. For manufacturers, this is a good opportunity to increase customer loyalty and stir up interest in the brand, and for fitness enthusiasts - to get high-quality sports shoes at a reduced price.

The widest range of sports shoes from various manufacturers often causes confusion among buyers. How to choose sneakers so as not to be disappointed in the purchase and not to regret wasting money? These shoes are very specific, so you shouldn’t focus only on appearance. There are many other important criteria that must be taken into account when purchasing suitable equipment.

The main differences between models for men and women

Women's and men's sneakers, like all other clothing, differ from each other. The exception is unisex models designed for daily use. Despite the fact that these sneakers can even be worn for long walks, they are not intended for sports.

Features of models for women:

bright colors (men's sneakers are less often decorated with colorful patterns);
due to the structural features of the foot, in order to avoid dislocations and rubbing, women’s lasts are much narrower;
additional heel height avoids damage to the Achilles tendons;
use of more elastic material;
women usually weigh less, so the shock absorption of shoes should be softer;
insoles, laces - durable, but less massive;
The mark in the form of the letter W will definitely not allow you to make a mistake in choosing shoes.

Purpose of purchase

Choosing sneakers is not an easy task: running shoes are not suitable for playing basketball, fitness shoes are not the best option for regular walks.

Shoes for everyday wear should be light, ankle-length, have a raised heel, a fairly rigid textured sole, and a mesh breathable upper. An important point to consider is fashion trends.

Sneakers for long walks should be well cushioned, firmly fix the ankle joint, and protect the toes and heels from impacts. It is better to choose a waterproof upper for these shoes.

Running places its own demands on shoes: low, dense soles, even, precise seams, and the absence of unnecessary decorative elements. Shoes should not be heavy, but not too lightweight.

Strength training requires a hard sole and a dense, reliable heel. Leather sneakers fit your feet well and help you maintain balance, which is important for such activities.

A curved heel, excellent shock absorption, non-slip hard herringbone sole, foam inserts around the ankle, leather or mesh upper are the criteria for choosing sports shoes for playing volleyball.

For tennis, it is better to choose ankle-high sneakers, with an unusual pattern on the sole (zigzags or dashes) to prevent slipping, socks with rubberized inserts that protect the toes from impacts, a lightweight leather upper and soft foam inserts.

Fitness will help relieve tension, relax muscles, feel healthy and energetic. Accordingly, properly selected shoes should help with this. The ideal option is leather with mesh inserts, high or medium height models, firmly fixing the ankle joint, flexible thin sole, narrow back, wide toes.

Good basketball sneakers should be stable, have a rigid and relatively thick sole that provides good grip on the surface, have excellent shock absorption, and firmly fix the foot. Which sneakers to choose - high, low or mid - depends on the functions performed by the player.

What does a visual inspection tell you?

Choosing sneakers in specialized boutiques is the right decision, since in addition to professional advice from sales consultants, you are guaranteed to purchase high-quality, reliable shoes, and not cheap, homemade fakes.

The first look at a pair of sneakers will tell you a lot. For example, missing laces, torn or uneven stitching, glue splashes all over the product, a pungent, unpleasant synthetic smell, lack of a sticker with information about the material (sole, upper and inner part), lack of size, country of origin should cause a hint of doubt in the buyer.

Inspection of individual parts

Each shoe consists of an upper with tongue and laces, insole, arch support, midsole, outsole and tread.

The top can be different: leather, fabric, made by combining artificial leather with synthetic materials. If you're buying sneakers for everyday wear, it's worth remembering that even the highest-quality models made from premium, breathable mesh look awkward in the cold season. In addition, a person wearing such shoes will feel cold and uncomfortable.

Shoes that combine several materials at once look beautiful: for example, elements made of genuine leather with synthetic mesh. Foam inserts will add comfort and softness to the shoes, reflective strips located on the sides will protect the owner while walking in the dark. Rigid elements on the upper are only allowed in the heel area.

There are different types of laces: elastic ones are easier to secure shoes on the foot, round ones are easier to untie than flat ones. The insoles of branded sneakers (removable and non-removable) should provide reliable support for the foot, prevent slipping, and have good ventilation and absorbency. The presence of a soft arch support will prevent flat feet and leg fatigue.

The midsole prevents deformation of the main sole under high loads, and the presence of cans filled with compressed air significantly increases elasticity. The tread serves for adhesion to the surface: a rubber porous sole with all kinds of indentations is suitable for uneven surfaces, a more even ribbed one is suitable for smooth and wet ones. Rubber pads attached in the heel area will significantly extend abrasion resistance.

General tips to help you choose the right sneakers

active movements require more cushioning;
the more prominent the surface, the higher the tread;
the more movements, the stiffer the sole;
a breathable upper will ensure good air exchange, models with a special membrane will combine “breathing” with excellent waterproofness.

The final touch - fitting

The comfort and safety of movement depends on which sneakers you choose. A correctly selected shoe size means no calluses, corns, bumps, protruding bones or deformed feet.

Tip: When choosing shoes, it is more important to know your foot size, not your shoe size.

A few rules to help you choose the right sneakers:

size is the length of the foot in a relaxed natural state;
try on each new pair of your size as if it were the first time;
take your time - try on several pairs, including half sizes;
Be sure to wear both sneakers;
It is better to try on the socks that you are supposed to wear;
socks should not be too thick;
by the end of the day, the legs swell, so it is better to try on at this time;
the insole in the toe area should be 5-7 mm larger than the foot;
keep in mind that training shoes should be a few millimeters larger than usual;
it is important to walk on a hard surface, as a soft one distorts the sensation;
standing up on your toes, measure the distance between the heel and the heel, the index finger should fit freely;
A run will allow you to feel if these are your shoes.

Shoes that are chosen in size, fit comfortably on the foot, made from high-quality materials in compliance with all existing standards - a 100% feeling of comfort and confidence, half the way to achieving high results in sports.

When buying shoes, especially sports shoes, it is important to decide on the size. How to choose the right sneaker size, how to measure your foot and what are the units of measurement?

With the spread of social networks, online shopping sites and the ability to pay for almost everything via the Internet, shopping for shoes, as well as for other items of clothing, has become less common. There is an increasing desire to buy online, but shoes are not as easy to choose without trying them on, like, for example, a T-shirt or accessories. Here you need to take into account many factors, one of the important ones is the size chart of each brand. All manufacturers may indicate sizes differently; even within the same company, sneaker lines will differ in terms of indicators. We will help you understand the features of sizing charts and tell you how best to choose sneakers.

How to choose your running shoe size

The key feature of sports sneakers is their shape, modifications and additional technologies for comfortable running, jumping or other activities. This is why sports shoes have their own separate size chart for almost all brands. For example, running shoes from Asics should be selected in centimeters, since this is the only correct designation that will exactly match the size of your feet. Please note that foot measurements should be taken after the load on the legs, as the length and width will be slightly larger. Thanks to this small point, the sneakers will not rub or squeeze during direct use. In addition to the size itself, it is worth considering that there are also differences in women's, men's and children's lines. Even if a girl sees attractive small men's sneakers, she shouldn't buy them. The width of the foot, the structure of the instep and changes in shape to suit the individual characteristics of the male leg will cause discomfort, and a person will no longer be able to fully devote himself to sports, feeling uncomfortable.

When buying running shoes, it is still recommended to come to the store and feel all the details of the shoe’s structure for yourself. In addition, it is important to understand how suitable the cushioning, toe and heel structure are for you. If you decide to make a purchase online, we advise you to take your time, carefully measure your foot by standing on a piece of paper and tracing your foot with a pencil. Place a ruler from the farthest point of the big toe in the figure to the farthest point of the heel, round to an even value, for example, if the size is 25.7 cm, round it to 26 cm. In any case, it is recommended to always add about 5 mm to your size. When choosing sports shoes, be sure to take into account not only the blood flow to the foot, but also the thickness of the sock; this can lead to the fact that you will need to take shoes 1 or even 1.5 cm more than the original result. Compare the centimeters indicated on the box with your measurements, you should not rely on the European system, and we will tell you why.

Choose the size of sneakers based on the insole

Most often, this is how shoes are selected, but there is a certain feature that needs to be taken into account. Manufacturers reserve the right to change the size chart depending on the shoe model. For example, the same size of sports and casual sneakers may differ. Often European sizes (EUR) do not coincide with real ones. This happens because the unit of length of the European measure is calculated by the so-called shtich, which should be equal to 6.7 mm. This is a very long tradition, which not all companies currently observe, so you can find sneakers that have the same size in the EUR system, but differ in the British, American and Japanese systems. It is very convenient that the Japanese shoe measurement (JP) is indicated in centimeters; thanks to such knowledge, you can compare the length of the leg with this parameter indicated. After all, there are times when there are no adapted tables on store websites. Therefore, for Russian buyers, the only correct and understandable measurement is in centimeters.

Remember that when choosing, be sure to focus on the tables of exactly the series of sneakers and exactly the manufacturer that you have chosen. Never change your Nike running shoe size to New Balance casual shoes. The sizes will definitely not match.

How to find out your sneaker size

We have already briefly described the simplest and most accurate method above. If you have known your size in the American or British measurement system for a long time, searching for shoes will become an easier task for you, but it is best to know the size in centimeters so that whenever possible you can check it in a specific table models. At the same time, always pay attention to such details as indicating the men's, women's, and children's line. There are also Unisex lines, in which the width of the foot is less important, so you can find sneakers for both genders. When choosing sports shoes, you should be more picky about all the parameters; you generally won’t find running shoes in the Unisex category.

By measuring your foot on the sheet and comparing it with the table of the line you like, you can easily buy shoes without trying them on in the store. But our advice is to still try to do this, because the time has not yet come when you can virtually try on shoes and immediately refuse delivery if the size does not fit. Until this is not possible, don't be lazy about spending time measuring, comparing, and reading specs when buying sneakers without trying them on. It is thanks to attentiveness that you can always have one or more perfectly fitting sneakers at home, which you didn’t have to take a step to purchase.

The main differences between models for men and women

Features of models for women:

bright colors (men's sneakers are less often decorated with colorful patterns);
due to the structural features of the foot, in order to avoid dislocations and rubbing, women’s lasts are much narrower;
additional heel height avoids damage to the Achilles tendons;
use of more elastic material;
women usually weigh less, so the shock absorption of shoes should be softer;
insoles, laces - durable, but less massive;
The mark in the form of the letter W will definitely not allow you to make a mistake in choosing shoes.

Purpose of purchase

Choosing sneakers is not an easy task: running shoes are not suitable for playing basketball, fitness shoes are not the best option for regular walks.

Shoes for everyday wear should be light, ankle-length, have a raised heel, a fairly rigid textured sole, and a mesh breathable upper. An important point to consider is fashion trends.

Sneakers for long walks should be well cushioned, firmly fix the ankle joint, and protect the toes and heels from impacts. It is better to choose a waterproof upper for these shoes.

Running places its own demands on shoes: low, dense soles, even, precise seams, and the absence of unnecessary decorative elements. Shoes should not be heavy, but not too lightweight.

Strength training requires a hard sole and a dense, reliable heel. Leather sneakers fit your feet well and help you maintain balance, which is important for such activities.

A curved heel, excellent shock absorption, non-slip hard herringbone sole, foam inserts around the ankle, leather or mesh upper are the criteria for choosing sports shoes for playing volleyball.

What does a visual inspection tell you?

Inspection of individual parts

Each shoe consists of an upper with tongue and laces, insole, arch support, midsole, outsole and tread.

General tips to help you choose the right sneakers

active movements require more cushioning;
the more prominent the surface, the higher the tread;
the more movements, the stiffer the sole;
a breathable upper will ensure good air exchange, models with a special membrane will combine “breathing” with excellent waterproofness.

The final touch - fitting

The comfort and safety of movement depends on which sneakers you choose. A correctly selected shoe size means no calluses, corns, bumps, protruding bones or deformed feet.

Tip: When choosing shoes, it is more important to know your foot size, not your shoe size.

A few rules to help you choose the right sneakers:

size is the length of the foot in a relaxed natural state;
try on each new pair of your size as if it were the first time;
take your time - try on several pairs, including half sizes;
Be sure to wear both sneakers;
It is better to try on the socks that you are supposed to wear;
socks should not be too thick;
by the end of the day, the legs swell, so it is better to try on at this time;
the insole in the toe area should be 5-7 mm larger than the foot;
keep in mind that training shoes should be a few millimeters larger than usual;
it is important to walk on a hard surface, as a soft one distorts the sensation;
standing up on your toes, measure the distance between the heel and the heel, the index finger should fit freely;
A run will allow you to feel if these are your shoes.

When someone says that running is the cheapest sport, put on your sneakers and run, I laugh in his face. If you don't want blisters, injuries, and terrible knee and spine problems in the near future, you either need to have amazing, professional running technique, or quality shoes that can smooth out all the shortcomings of your technique. So let's talk about how to choose sneakers.

Part 1. “Auchancrosses”, or shoes that you don’t need to buy

One day there was a huge hole in my budget, and my previous sneakers also had a hole in them. I needed new ones urgently, so I bought (forgive me, legs!) running shoes from Demix. For 800 rubles.

No, at first it was fine. The sole is quite elastic and flexible, which seems to be good. But after just four hour runs, I rubbed the arch of my foot. Do you understand? ARCH OF THE FOOT. This is a place that (it seems to me) should not come into contact with shoes at all. This is where Demix and I parted.

But things can get even worse. Many people believe that they can train in sneakers bought on the market during their student years, or in shoes from unknown manufacturers sold in hypermarkets. Yes, I know, I myself have seen cheerful grandfathers at marathons, covering the distance in old-fashioned sneakers. Maybe this is also comfortable for you, and everything will be fine, and your spine won’t fall into your underpants halfway through the distance. But I wouldn't risk it.

Part 2.Reebok

Some time ago, even before the CrossFit craze, Reebok mass-produced only one model of women's shoes.

Reebok Easytone

Ladies! These are not sneakers for the gym! And not running shoes. They are not for sports at all!

I did not escape the craze for isitons and tried to train in them for about a month. In vain.

First of all, they are heavy. And tough. And if you carry a barbell on your shoulders, an unstable sole can seriously harm you. To pump up your abs in them is just the thing. Or go for a walk, you can walk very beautifully in them, just like the girls in the advertisements. Maybe at the same time your butt will pump up, the main thing is to believe in it!

Reebok ZigTech

These are wonderful sneakers! Lightweight, comfortable, multifunctional. And they look a little alien. It’s even a shame that ZigTech for women hasn’t appeared in stores lately.

In Zigtec, I entered the first half marathon and ran it almost without loss. And besides, I actively used them as gym sneakers. It's all in the sole. It is designed to soften the impact and reduce stress on the joints. The manufacturer positions this model as suitable for overweight people - well, great, increased cushioning of the sole has never harmed anyone. The model is ideal for running from the heel. For those who run on their toes, it will be a little uncomfortable - due to the thick sole, the calves will be slightly overstrained.

The only negative I noticed during use was the thin mesh on the toe of the sneakers, which quickly breaks in the area of the big toe.

Reebok Z PUMP

Over the years, the company has improved in the production of running shoes, although it suspiciously ignores winter studded models for women (girls also run on ice and snow in winter, know this). And here is the pinnacle of perfection so far – the Z PUMP model.

You want them, everyone wants them. I definitely want to. These are lightweight and flexible, completely seamless running shoes. They are made of compression material and do not have a tongue. Pressing the cute button on the side helps inflate the frame of the sneaker with air so it molds to the exact shape of your foot. They look stylish and look very neat on the foot. This is the Lamborghini of sneakers.

I really only tried them on in the store. If someone has already tried it in practice, please share how it was?

Part 3.Nike

We love Nike, and Nike loves runners. And he also loves those who work out on the gym. And those who prefer yoga to all this. Sneakers for every taste and color, come and choose!

Nike Air Max

Perhaps the most famous, almost legendary brand. In my opinion, they are a bit heavy, and I wouldn’t dare run long distances in them, but in all other respects they are perfect. The unique shock absorption system, proven over the years, does not fail - you will feel soft and comfortable in them. Again, they are perfect for overweight people - the load on the joints when running or walking will be significantly reduced.

Nike releases new models Air Max almost every year, so anyone can find the most suitable pair. Don't limit yourself to the gym - these are wonderful sneakers for everyday life if you prefer a sporty style. I especially recommend it to tourists and everyone who lives far from the metro. And in hip=hop culture Air Max became a symbol of special luxury.

And all because of the price. But here's a little life hack: pay attention to children's models! If you are a very miniature Cinderella, models for girls will suit you; for those with feet larger than size 36 - models for boys. They are cheaper and even more convenient, because all the best is for children!

Nike Flex Trainer

Training sneakers that fit perfectly into the concept of functional training - flexible, lightweight, almost flat sole, allow you to perform any movement of the foot.

These shoes are designed to maintain the natural movement of the foot and provide the feeling of a barefoot workout. There is a theory that the emphasis on cushioning in shoe manufacturing contributes to the development of flat feet and other foot abnormalities. There's something about it. I wear these sneakers for particularly dynamic workouts, like PT or wushu.

Nike Flex Run

My love from the first run. I completed my first marathon with these sneakers, and they saved me on icy paths during winter runs. Here's a list of advantages: very light, very flexible, wide toe (for those with fairly wide feet), breathable, absolutely indestructible. Seriously, this is my second year of actively running in them and they are still as good as new.

But what’s important to remember is that they have virtually no shock absorption. These are shoes for toe-off and toe-off running only. I don’t recommend switching to the heel - your back may hurt. But if you follow the technique Flex Run – my number one choice.

Nike Twilight

Wanted! If you see these sneakers on sale, let me know!

These sneakers with an extremely romantic name disappeared from the shelves somewhere, which is a pity. Or do I just not see them?

They're like Air Max, but much, much lighter. Vulcanized outsole for excellent cushioning, the world's best ventilation, and a vibrant design that lifts your spirits. Dancing, barbell, treadmill - everything comes easy when I'm in them. Let's like Nike!

Part 4.Adidas

Previously, I somehow did not consider Adidas sneakers as running shoes, traditionally preferring Nike. And then they appeared in my wardrobe.

Adidas Boost

Weightless, soft, this magical mint color... These are sneakers to fly, soar, so that the road itself falls under your feet. You don’t notice the distance, fatigue, or difficult surfaces in them. Asphalt - let it be asphalt, paving stones - not scary either... Just a song, not sneakers!

The problem with running on your toes is that at some point your calves become so cramped that you can no longer move your leg. And running down a hill is simply torture. That's when I switch to heel, and Adidas Boost They help me with this. They provide maximum arch support and provide really good cushioning while maintaining flexibility in the sole so you can alternate techniques without loss. I recommend!