Sneakers first came onto the scene in the 1830s to help people walk comfortably on the beach. Since then, they’ve become an important athletic and style staple.

Whether you are an athlete or just looking to improve your style, you need the right sneaker to keep you comfortable. Picking the best sneaker for you requires a little bit of planning. You must consider the shoe’s size, function, and fit before making your final decision. 

If you’re unsure of what sneaker is right for you, we’re here to help. Before you buy your next pair of sneakers, here are a few things to consider.

Parts of a Sneaker 

An athletic sneaker is made up of several different parts. These parts work together to provide support and comfort while you’re active. The basic elements of an athletic sneaker include the outsole, insole, upper, and lining. 

A sneaker outsole comes into contact with the ground. It’s made of durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. 

The insole of the sneaker is the part that you step on. It’s usually made of foam or another soft material to provide cushioning. 

The upper is the portion of the sneaker that covers your foot. It’s usually made of breathable fabric to keep your feet cool and comfortable. 

The lining of a sneaker comes into contact with your foot. It’s usually constructed from soft fabric to prevent irritation like blisters. 

A sneaker’s ankle collar is the part that wraps around your ankle at the top of the shoe. Usually, this part is made from padding to keep your ankle in place. The ankle collar should keep your foot in the shoe and make you feel comfortable walking around. 

How to Determine What Type of Sneaker You Need

When buying a pair of sneakers, deciding which type is right for you can be tricky. You have to keep several factors in mind before making your final decision. 

Sport 

First, look at the type of activity you’ll be doing in your sneakers. Do you like doing high-impact activities like running? The best shoes for running, like the air max shoes, provide good support and cushioning. 

If less intense activities are more your speed, you may not need as sturdy of a shoe. A lighter walking shoes may be all you need.

Next, think about the surface you’ll be doing your activity on. If you are running on pavement, you’ll need a different sneaker than if you’re running on a trail. Make sure to choose a sneaker that’s designed for the type of surface you’ll be using most often.

Your personal preference should play into your sneaker decision. When choosing your sneakers, make sure you pick ones you’ll want to wear.

Foot Type 

Your foot has its own unique shape. The arches on your foot can be high or narrow, which can impact the shoe you choose. 

You’ll want to look for a shoe with good arch support if you have high arches. A shoe with increased stability is recommended for people with low arches. 

Don’t forget to try your sneakers on! You won’t be able to find the best sneakers without feeling them on your foot. You may have to go through several different pairs before finding the ones that feel best. 

Style

Think about the kind of sneaker you want. Sneakers come in many styles and colors, so you want to narrow down what you like before shopping. 

Although you’ll want to try on your sneakers in the store, you can look online before you shop to get some ideas. This extra step will help you get to your ideal pair of shoes faster when it’s time to go to the store. 

You may want a sneaker that is more about fashion than function. For example, buy Air Max 96 for a sneaker that looks chic while still being supportive. 

Finding the Right Fit 

So many people think they know their shoe size but are not wearing shoes that fit them. You must find a pair that fits your foot correctly to get the most out of your sneakers. 

Head to a store specializing in sneakers when you start shoe shopping. These stores will have employees who can help you find a shoe that is right for you. 

If you are finding shoes for a specific sport, wear the socks you would wear while doing that activity. Put the shoe on and take note of how it feels. 

You want about half an inch between the shoe tip and your longest toe. Your toes should have enough room to wiggle around a bit. Getting a pair of shoes that are too tight will get in the way of your athletic performance. 

Types of Athletic Sneakers 

There are many types of athletic sneakers on the market today. Many, like some Nike sneakers, are designed for a specific athletic purpose. Here is a look at the most popular kinds of sneakers. 

Running Shoes 

These shoes have many features to make them more comfortable during long runs. They usually have a thick sole to cushion the impact of each step and a supportive upper to keep your foot in the shoe. 

Walking Shoes 

Walking shoes are like running shoes but are lighter with a more flexible sole. This makes them more comfortable when walking long distances. They also usually have a wider toe box to allow your foot to spread out more as you walk. 

Tennis Shoes 

The best tennis shoe will be designed for lateral movement and have a very durable sole. They also need sturdy ankle support to prevent injuries while you move on the court.

Volleyball Shoes 

Volleyball shoes have a very thick sole to protect your feet from the impact of jumping and landing. They also have good ankle support and a sticky outsole to help you move around the court.

Caring for Your Sneakers

Sneakers are a necessary part of any fashion-savvy or athletic wardrobe. Like any other article of clothing, they need proper care to keep them looking their best. Take care of your sneakers using the following tips:

Keep Them Clean 

It’s essential to keep your sneakers clean if you want them to last as long as they can. If you wear your sneakers on trails, brush off any dirt or debris after wearing them. 

Protect Them From Water 

Make sure to dry off your shoes as soon as possible if they get wet. Wet shoes can cause the material to break down and the soles to separate. One trick is to stuff your wet shoes with newspaper to help them dry out faster.

Storing Your Shoes 

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing them. Don’t place them in direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the material to break down. Too much humidity, like in a garage, can also damage your shoes. 

How to Tell if You Need a New Pair of Shoes 

Your sneakers aren’t going to last you forever. There are a few telltale signs that it’s time to retire your old sneakers and get a new pair. 

Don’t wait until your shoes are completely worn out before you get a new pair. You’ll be happier and healthier with a new pair of shoes.

Worn Down Soles 

Make sure to examine the soles of your sneakers. If they look worn and thin, it’s time for a new pair. The soles protect your feet from the ground, so if they’re worn out, you’re more likely to get injured.

Uncomfortable Shoes 

You should be able to wear your shoes for hours without having any pain or discomfort. If you can’t, it’s time for a new pair. 

Old shoes can get ripped on the inside. Rips expose the inner part of your shoe, which can rub against your heels and feet. This friction can cause blisters and other foot problems. 

Your Shoes Are Old

You don’t want to have a pair of shoes older than six months. The materials in shoes break down over time, so they’re not as effective after a while.

The miles you put on your shoes can dictate when you need a new pair. The more you use them, the faster they break down. It would be best to replace your shoes every four to five hundred miles. 

You’re Not Getting Results 

The right shoes can make a big difference in how effective your workout is. If you’re not getting the results you want from your activities, it might be time to get new shoes. 

Once You Find the Best Sneaker for You, You’ll Never Want to Take Them Off 

Although finding the best sneaker for your lifestyle can take some time, it’s worth it to have a perfect pair. Your body will thank you for finding a shoe that feels and looks great. 

Did you find this article helpful? If so, make sure to read more from our Sports category today. 

Kenneth

Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].