Running, gym, city and beyond: a guide to all kinds of sneakers – 25 pairs to choose from

Sneakers are a closet masthead. We wear them anywhere and everywhere. Some of us even wear them to the office! There is a whole culture of fans of these shoes. They call themselves snickerheads. However, to paraphrase a famous expression, “Not all sneakers are equally useful”. Each type has its own unique features that distinguish it from the others.

Sportmaster PRO expert, prize-winner at Russian starts, first-rate marathon runner.

Depending on what purpose the sneakers are intended for, they can have different characteristics: durability, flexibility, shock absorption, stability, etc. So what types of sneakers exist and what are the fundamental differences? We understand, in order to make an unambiguously correct choice.

All sneakers are usually divided into the following categories:

1. Children’s (they are allocated separately, since adults are not recommended to wear a child’s shoes and vice versa),
2. for traveling and tourism,
3. for fitness,
4. for running.

There is also a category of “sports style ” – so called sneakers designed for daily movements around the city.

Buyers who do not understand the types and purpose of sneakers, often make the same mistakes. The main one is to choose a product solely by design, without taking into account the purpose. A person thinks that sneakers are comfortable and convenient in fact. Whatever they are.

Here lies the main mistake. In unsuitable shoes you will be uncomfortable. Plus, if the sneakers are used improperly (for example, you work out in the gym in a regular city model), they will wear out faster.

Global differences

But how exactly do the different types differ? First of all by material. There are sneakers made of natural or artificial leather, textile, nylon and polyester. And this is only the most popular materials.

The sole is also different – from soft and flexible to rigid and hard. The latter, for example, is needed to protect your feet when hiking on rough terrain. But the sole differs not only in stiffness. Sneakers for fitness, running, team sports, parkour, indoor and outdoor activities will have certain types of soles.

For example, basketball sneakers for the street have a herringbone tread. This is necessary so that the player does not slip on the asphalt or court. Running sneakers should have a sole with inserts made of durable rubber. This gives additional reliability and durability.

As for the design, it is the same in a variety of models. Only the details differ: the sole, upper, lacing and so on. Let’s analyze all these points on the example of different types.

Features and nuances

For running

Representatives of this category are considered the lightest among their brethren. Ideally, the runner should not feel them on his feet at all. Such shoes have a flexible toe. This allows you to follow the shape of the foot when running. A good, stiff heel is also needed here. This gives additional cushioning. Another characteristic detail – running shoes are always low.

Men’s Reebok Lavante Trail 2 sneakers, 9399 rubles / Sportmaster

For basketball

These sneakers can have different top heights, but the bulk of popular models belong to high-tops – they cover the ankle. Thanks to reliable ankle support, snickers significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Sneakers men’s 361 ° AG3 Pro-Bruce Lee, 13 999 rubles / Sportmaster

For soccer

Such sneakers are called cleats, and the main difference here is the spikes. They are also different. According to the markings on the box, you can find out for the game on which surface this or that pair is intended. For example:

• ID – futsal cleats,
• HG – hard natural surface,
• TF – ground, snow and gravel,
• SG – soft and/or wet turf,
• FG – natural or synthetic turf.

Boots adidas COPA SENSE.3 FG, 10 999 rubles / Lamoda

For tennis and volleyball

Both are characterized by a large amount of movement and jerky movements on a small court. It is important that the shoes give stability, foot cushioning and protection from possible injuries (sprains). Sneakers should cover all needs. To do this, they have: reinforced side parts (better protection wear resistance), increased shock absorption, as well as herringbone tread, which we mentioned above. It gives maximum grip and maneuverability.

FILA Axilus 2 Energized women’s tennis sneakers, 11,699 rubles / Sportmaster

For skateboarding

These are sneakers. They are called skateboarders. Taking into account the peculiarities of use, increased durability is important here. Especially in places of frequent contact with the board. Also fundamental are good traction with the skateboard, additional protection for the foot and ankle.

Supra CHINO sneakers, 2799 rubles / Trial-Sport

For fitness

Such sneakers should have a thin and flexible sole. Such models are almost always low. The tread is characterized by a small herringbone pattern.

Sneakers women’s Reebok FLEXAGON ENERGY TR 4, 6999 rubles / Lamoda

For active tourism

Such shoes assume increased wear resistance. For the most part, sneakers have water-repellent properties and are equipped with special technologies for self-cleaning from dirt. For comfort and safety in models for active recreation add special shock-absorbing inserts and improved ankle support.

Millet LIGHT RUSH M sneakers, 15 120 rubles / Trial-Sport

As for everyday urban models, these are mostly comfortable , elegant shoes that resemble classic shoes in appearance. Such sneakers are characterized by a low or medium upper and almost complete absence of additional technologies.

PUMA Cassia Mix women’s casual sneakers, 7999 rubles / Sportmaster

Weight matters

The rule “lighter = better” does not always work. In general, the weight of sneakers varies on average from 180 grams to one kilogram. On the one hand, indeed, the lighter the shoes, the less we get tired in them. But on the other hand – stability directly depends on the weight, width, relief of the sole, seasonality and other factors that clearly add weight to sneakers.

It is clear that running and professional sports shoes should be lightweight. But for normal everyday models, chasing the minimum weight is not necessary. You’ll be able to walk easily, but the chances of accidentally twisting your foot will increase.

+17 options from different categories

Choosing the right pair can make a big difference to your performance, comfort and safety. Sneakers for running, training in the gym, walking or outdoor activities have their own design features, which are revealed in certain types of movements and loads.

Don’t be guided by design alone. Be sure to think about when, on what surface and for what purposes you will use the shoes. This is what will ensure comfort in movement and will save you from irrational purchases.