November 2023 - Saucedby

If you plan to hit the gym, you might wonder what shoes to wear. Are regular sneakers good enough, or do you need to buy a pair of gym shoes? This is a common question for many fitness enthusiasts.

In this article, you will learn:

The differences between sneakers and gym shoes and how they affect your performance and safety in the gym
How to choose the best sneakers for the gym based on your workout type, foot shape, and personal preference
How to take care of your sneakers for the gym and extend their lifespan and quality

By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of whether you can use sneakers for the gym. Let’s get started!

The Difference Between Sneakers and Gym Shoes

But before you grab your sneakers and head to the gym, there are some advantages and drawbacks you should be aware of.

Sneakers

Sneakers, also known as athletic shoes or trainers, are versatile footwear for casual wear, walking, and light physical activities.

They come in various styles, from running shoes to fashionable streetwear.

Gym Shoes

nike-zoom-alphafly-next-nature — Nike Zoom Alphafly Next Nature

On the other hand, gym shoes, or workout shoes, are specifically engineered to enhance your performance during exercises.

They offer better support, stability, and traction, which are crucial for rigorous workouts.

Sneakers for the Gym

Advantages

Versatility: Sneakers are a jack-of-all-trades; they can handle cardio, weightlifting, and group classes. So, depending on your fitness goal, there will always be a suitable sneaker for you.

Comfort: Sneakers often offer cushioning and shock absorption, making them ideal for high-impact activities and making more vigorous fitness activities comfortable. The right pair can help you perform at your best, potentially elevating your fitness game.

Style: Remember that sneakers come in countless trendy designs so you can be both stylish and fit. You can also pick a colour or silhouette matching your style, making exercising more fun and personalised.

Disadvantages

Choose gym sneakers carefully for your exercise. Some sneakers suit only certain activities, like running or weightlifting. For example, running shoes have more cushioning and flexibility, while weightlifting shoes have more stability and support. Nike Alphafly 2 is a good choice for long runs but a bad one for Romanian deadlifts.

Fun fact: Each year, between 37% and 56% of runners worldwide get injuries from wearing the incorrect running shoes.

Sneakers for the gym need to be durable, but they often wear out faster than other shoes. Running machines and stair masters can damage your sneakers’ soles and uppers with rough surfaces.

Wet conditions can also shorten the lifespan of your sneakers and making them less comfortable. You may need to replace your gym sneakers more often to keep them in good shape.

Using the same sneakers for workouts and daily activities can make them smell bad and cause hygiene issues. Consider using specialised sneakers for the gym instead. Breathable and moisture-absorbing materials make these sneakers. They keep your feet fresh and prevent hygiene problems.

I use the Nike Air Max TW. Discover how awesome these sneakers are in the gym. Check out this video on my YouTube channel and see for yourself.

How to Choose the Best Sneakers for the Gym

sneakers-or-gym-shoes-new-balance-display-wall

Understanding your feet is the foundation for selecting the perfect gym sneakers. Here’s how you can do it

Know Your Feet
To identify your foot type, you need to look at your arches. There are three common types of arches: flat, neutral, and high.

Flat arches (or pronated feet) need sneakers for the gym with good arch support to distribute weight evenly.

Neutral arches have more flexibility in choosing sneakers.
High arches (or cavus feet) require sneakers with extra cushioning to absorb shock.
Consider Your Workout Type
The type of exercises you engage in should determine and guide your sneaker selection. Here’s how to match sneakers with your workout:

Running: If you’re into running, you must prioritise good cushioning and shock absorption in your sneakers. Ultimately, this will help reduce the impact on your joints during your runs, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of injury.

Weightlifting: For weightlifting, stability and a flat sole are vital. It would be worth looking for weightlifting shoes with a solid, non-compressible sole to create a sturdy base for lifting.
Choosing The Right Sneakers For You
Selecting the right sneakers for you isn’t just about fit and function; it’s also about balancing personal style, quality, and budget. Here’s how to form the perfect trifecta.

Budget and Quality: Gym shoes have different prices. You need to balance quality and budget. Premium gym shoes offer more features and durability but may be too expensive. Budget-friendly options can give good performance and comfort. You should find sneakers that meet your standards and fit your budget.

Personal Style: Your fitness journey should also reflect your personality; sneakers are another way to express this. You will find a gym sneaker that matches your style with vibrant colours, unique silhouettes, and trendy patterns. This way, you can feel and look good while working towards your fitness goals.

Light in weight: 10 ounces (283 grams) or less for a man’s size 9 and 8 ounces (227 grams) or less for a woman’s size 8.

How to Take Care of Your Sneakers for the Gym

Cleanliness: Regularly wipe down your sneakers to remove sweat and dirt. You’d be surprised how much of a difference it can make.
Storage: Keep your gym sneakers in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or damp environments.
Replacement: As a rule, replace your sneakers every 300-500 miles if used primarily for running or every 6-12 months for daily workouts. Signs of wear and tear, like a worn-out sole or lack of cushioning, are cues for replacement.
Responsibility: Recycle or donate your old sneakers to reduce environmental impact instead of throwing them away.

Conclusion

Sneakers or gym shoes? The best choice depends on your goals, budget, and taste. Sneakers are versatile and comfy, but gym shoes are more specialised and durable.

The most important thing is to stay fit and healthy, no matter what you wear. Use your sneakers as long as they work for you, but don’t hesitate to switch to gym shoes if you need more support.

Choose wisely, stay motivated, and have fun with your fitness journey!

Loved this article on Sneakers or Gym Shoes? Don’t miss our awesome trainer reviews and videos! Follow us on Instagram and Pinterest, or like us on Facebook today.

Do you know the difference between sneakers and shoes?

If you are looking for a new pair of shoes, you should learn more about these two types of footwear.

Sneakers and shoes are different; they have similar features, benefits, and drawbacks. They differ in design and purpose.

In this article, you will learn about:

What are sneakers and shoes?
How do sneakers and shoes feel, look, and perform?
Sharing my personal experiences with sneakers and shoes
How do they compare in comfort, durability, style, and price?
Choosing the best sneakers or shoes for you?

By the end, you will clearly understand the difference between sneakers and shoes.

Extra tips have been included at the end of the article to help you choose the right sneaker or shoes.

And you can decide which one suits your needs and preferences.

What are Sneakers?

Sneakers are more than just shoes. They are a way of expressing personal style and identity. Their customisation options let people choose their colours, patterns, and designs.

Sneakers are also comfortable and supportive for various activities and casual wear. They have cushioned soles, breathable materials, and flexible shapes that adapt to the feet.

Sneakers have become fashion symbols, attracting luxury brands and celebrities. They have different styles, such as high-tops, low-tops, slip-ons, and lace-ups. They can match any outfit, from jeans to dresses.

Sneakers uniquely combine comfort and personal style. They are shoes that people can wear with confidence and flair.

Why I Prefer Sneakers

I love sneakers for many reasons. Some of them are:

Comfy: They are soft and flexible and fit my feet well
Stylish: They are fashionable and suit my personality
Cool: They are breathable and airy and let my feet breathe
Versatile: They are adaptable and flexible and match most outfits and occasions

I prefer to wear low-top sneakers with shorts or cargo pants for a casual look.

I wear my cosy and lightweight Nike Vomero 5 to work, which might surprise you. They look professional enough, I guess haha.

Another reason I prefer sneakers over sports shoes is that they last longer. I have a lot of sneakers that I review on YouTube.

I can wear them all day without hurting my feet.

What are Shoes?

curling-sports-shoes — Image via Richard Heathcote

Designers create sports shoes for specific physical activities. They have features that suit the activity and enhance and improve performance.

Different sports require different shoes, depending on whether they are indoor or outdoor and what kind of movements they involve.

For example, curling is an ice sport requiring warm and flexible shoes and a Teflon slider for sliding on the ice. They also have a stable outsole and an adjustable upper for balance and mobility.

Another example is squash, a fast-paced sport that needs shoes with good stability for quickly changing direction.

Some sports shoes, such as running shoes, can be used for multiple sports. Running shoes are versatile and can adapt to different surfaces and speeds.

Why Shoes Are Worth It

Sports shoes are great for boosting my performance because they have:

Cushioning: They protect my feet from impact and reduce fatigue
Stability: They support my feet and prevent injuries
Grip: They adapt to different surfaces and improve traction

I’m a gym and running fan. I need sports shoes that can handle both activities. My favourite sports shoes are the Nike React Infinity 3. They are road running shoes but also great for gym circuits, treadmills and outdoor running.

Sports shoes are worth it because they are versatile, comfortable and cool. They can do different things, cushion my feet and let them breathe. My feet are less sweaty after exercise.

Difference Between Sneakers and Shoes

Sneakers	Shoes
Design: Designed to showcase product technology and innovation, with cushioning, ventilation, traction, and stability features.	Design: Designed to be casual and comfortable, with a slip-on style and an open or closed heel.
Comfort: Sneakers provide comfort for different activities and lifestyles, with support, safety, and shock absorption.	Comfort: sports shoes provide comfort for all-season wear, with waterproof or water-resistant properties that keep the feet dry and clean.
Style: Sneakers express personal style and identity with a thriving custom sneaker market and collaborations.	Style: Versatile and convenient, with a simple, minimalist design that matches any outfit.
Sneakers fit snugly or loose. You can adjust the laces or straps. They have different sizes and widths for different foot shapes.	Sports shoes fit tightly and correctly. They restrict your feet’s movement and lock them in.
Sneakers resist wear and tear with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. You can replace parts like insoles, laces, or outsoles to make them last longer.	Sports shoes resist scratches and cracks better and have durable, easy-to-clean materials. Little maintenance or repair is needed.
Purpose: The fashion industry designs sneakers to meet specific needs and preferences.	Purpose: You can use sports shoes for a variety of activities.
Cushioning: Usually is medium to firm feeling depending on the brand and style.	Cushioning: This is usually bouncy, with the right feedback feeling with every stride.
Material: Sneaker manufacturers use various materials, including suede, textile, leather, and recycled fabric.	Material: Used in sports shoes, it is much more durable due to the likelihood of more movement.
Traction: Best used on smooth surfaces such as paved walkways and indoor use.	Sports shoes usually have ridged outsoles, ideal for various surfaces such as tracks and indoor use.

Tips For Buying Shoes

Try sports shoes in the late afternoon, when your feet are the most swollen.
Take along any orthotics or insoles you wear and the socks you typically use.
There should be half a thumb’s width between the end of your longest toe and the tip of a shoe.
Emulate on-court movements while you’re trying shoes/running around, and try out your different moves in a match.
Wear the shoes around the house before you use them on the court.

Pros and Cons of Sneakers

Pros	Cons
Comfortable: Sneakers provide cushioning, support, and flexibility for your feet with their design.	Expensive: Sneakers can cost much money, especially if you want to buy the latest or limited edition models.
Versatile: People wear sneakers for different purposes, such as casual, athletic, or fashion.	Sneakers get dirty easily outdoors or in dusty, muddy, or wet places. Mesh and suede sneakers take more work to clean.
Stylish: Sneakers can express your personality, taste, and preferences.	Foot problems: Sneakers can cause foot problems, such as blisters, if not fitted properly.

Pros and Cons of Shoes

Pros	Cons
You can wear comfy and versatile sports shoes anytime, anywhere. They match any outfit.	Sports shoes wear out faster than sneakers with more exercise. You need to change them more often.
Sports shoes last longer than sneakers and need minor repair or replacement.	Some sports shoes look plain and boring compared to sneakers.
Some sports shoes keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Some have no laces, so you can quickly put them on and take them off.	New sports shoes may cause blisters until you break them in.

Conclusion

You have learned the difference between sneakers and shoes, two footwear types with similar features, benefits, and drawbacks.

Loved this article on sneakers vs sports shoes? Don’t miss our awesome trainer reviews and videos! Follow us on Instagram , Pinterest or liking our Facebook Page today.

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Sneakers or Gym Shoes: The Difference and How It Matters