It’s gotta be the shoes
You might say I have a thing for shoes. (Understatement? Shhh...) I view them as having storytelling power. But they also just happen to be the most important part of your training apparel. It’s gotta be the shoes!
Okay, well—listen, they’re not magic. Great shoes won’t completely transform you into a top-level athlete; you still gotta put in the work! But will solid shoes help you as an athlete? For sure! Beyond function, putting on a good pair of training shoes will also help get you in the optimal mental state for training.
You’ll want shoes that match your activity:
For running, you’ll want a softer shoe that provides quality cushioning for your feet.
For cross training, look for a shoe that is somewhat flat with a little bit of a heel.
For weightlifting (and I only recommend weightlifting specific shoes if you're dedicated to the sport), reach for a shoe with a hard, flat bottom. This keeps your feet planted so you can drive through the ground for more power.
Some of my overall favorites are the Nike Metcon, Reebok Nano, and NOBULL shoes.
Remember that everyone’s feet are different, so experiment and find what works best for you. Your form and control are still key no matter what shoes you wear. Because I have dialed down my movements, I often wear non-traditional shoes when training, like Converse and Vans. Again, experiment for the shoes that give you the most comfort and confidence.
Socks are an important pairing and not to be overlooked. Make sure your socks are somewhat thick. Thin, no-show socks are not going to set you up for success. Bonus points for matching your socks with your outfit.
What other questions do you have about shoes and training? As this is the nexus of two of my passions, I could say a lot more on this topic, but these are some quick basics to get you off on the right foot.
See you out there,
Andrew
