As a dance fitness instructor the question I get asked the most is "What is the best shoe for Zumba/Ujam?"
Since fitting shoes varies from person to person, no one brand is going to suit everyone, however, I have a few requirements for a dance fitness shoe:
Minimal traction on the sole: The last thing you want as you twist and turn is traction. That's just asking for a torn meniscus.
Flexibility: We're dancing, enough said.
Comfort: Shoes should feel "ahhhhhh" good from the second you put them on. Break in periods are a myth. You'll know if a shoe has enough or too much arch support or cushioning from the moment you lace it it. (It bears mentioning: wear athletic socks when you try on your shoes)
Ankle support: I prefer a shoe with mid to high top construction, as I find the extra ankle support protects me during a particularly rockin' class.
All that being equal, Ryka is a shoe brand designed for women & the kind folks at Ryka have taken the time to create a shoe that lets you twist & engage in all that lateral movement without sticking to the floor! Check out the Pivot Circle at the ball of the foot, oh that's a dancers dream right there! Twist and turn with no knee issues!
Hands down, my favorite brand and on sale right now at 6pm.com.
I tend to buy a half size up so I can wear thick socks & allow my foot to swell (as they tend to do) during the course of a class.
Tell me, what is your favorite shoe?
Tell me, what is your favorite shoe?
