What Are the Different Types of Cross Training Shoes?

Cross trainers are shoes that are created from variety of different materials and that can be used for a myriad of activities. They are meant to be confined to just one type of exercise, and instead are perfect for the athlete who loves to train by completing numerous different types of activities. Some cross trainers are made with the typical shoe laces, but others are completely laceless and easy to wear. Due to the vast amount of options for cross trainers, the right shoe for you may be completely different for another person.
Types of Cross Training Shoes

Synthetic Cross Training Shoes

Nowadays, most tennis shoes are produced using synthetic mesh. This allows your feet to breathe properly during exercise, which promotes comfort and reduction of odor. Breathable shoes feel different when you run, because often they allow a direct air flow into the shoe as you go on your daily run. Most runners appreciate this for both comfort levels, and the fact that breathable shoes can prevent your feet from sweating.

Another plus surrounding synthetic training shoes, is that they often don’t require much care. Compared to leather cross trainers, synthetic shoes won’t crack or dry out after a few months of wear and tear.

Leather Cross Training Shoes

In general, leather cross trainers won’t be nearly as breathable as synthetic cross trainers. The leather that is used to produce cross trainers isn’t as breathable as natural leather, and therefore it doesn’t allow much air to pass through the shoe. However, many people are still drawn to leather cross trainers due to their sleekness and designs.

No-Tie Cross Training Shoes

No-tie shoes have begun to saturate the cross training market just recently. Adults have taken a chapter right out of children’s fashion, and have turned to no-tie cross trainers for their exercise routines. These shoes are equipped with springy laces, and can be pulled tight from their tops. These shoes rid you of the frustrations of dealing with untied shoes and knotted laces. If you buy these shoes and do get tired of the no-lace design, then with a few snips of your scissors, you can easily put a pair of standard laces in the shoes.

Barefoot Cross Training Shoes

Shoes like Vibram Fivefingers have recently appeared in the market to make you feel as if you are running barefoot. These type of shoes aren’t for everyone, but if you do love them, then you can relax knowing that you are gaining a few benefits. These shoes allow you to work different muscles in your feet, are super light, and give you the ability to feel the texture of the road/court beneath your feet. Basically, the shoe is a glove for your foot.

Barefoot cross trainers have been designed for a variety of sports and activities. They do take some time to get used to, and should be broken in thoroughly before you attempt to wear them running. Often, manufacturers recommend that people gradually ease themselves into wearing the shoes, so that their feet can build the proper muscles overtime.

Wearing Socks with Barefoot Cross Training Shoes

Barefoot cross training shoes aren’t supposed to be worn with socks. They have individual places for each toe, so regular socks aren’t even allowed to be worn with these shoes. However, if your feet get cold or you want a bit of extra comfort, you can wear toe socks. However, wearing toe socks may make the shoes tight. Overtime though, the shoes should stretch and be super comfortable.

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