Choosing the right pair of shoes is the first and the foremost step in your bid to be fit. It doesn’t really matter whether you plan to hit the trails for a backcountry run, or hop on the treadmill for some light training, the footwear you choose can make a world of difference. Let us go through the basics of how to choose the ideal running and training shoes for you to begin your next fitness goal.

When it comes to training shoes, there are the three major categories:

  • Cross-training shoes
  • Road-running shoes
  • Trail-running shoes

You have a lot of options to choose from within these three broad categories

Cross-training Shoes

These type of shoes are ideal while undertaking an array of athletic activities. You can wear these if you undertake weight lifting and cardio-related workouts. These shoes can also be worn while covering short distances.

About These Shoes: A good pair of cross-training shoes is lightweight and features a wide outsole to supplement stability and lateral movement. It is something that is rarely taken into consideration while designing running shoes. Also, cross trainers come with very low heel-to-toe drop in order to enhance stability. These type of shoes come with a good amount of responsive cushion in the midsole.

Why Choose Cross-training Shoes? Cross trainers are an ideal option for those who have a varied fitness routine. Weight lifters and power lifters can go for cross-training shoes.

Road-Running Shoes

Road-running shoes are tailor-made for running long distances on roads and smooth surfaces. These shoes are lightweight and support your feet while traditional running is being undertaken.

About the Road-Running Shoes:  Here, you need to look for a cushioning system that supports your forefoot. The specific arch and type of your foot is something that will decide what features you want in your road-running shoe.

Why choose Road-Running shoes? These can be used for running on either pavements or treadmills. Also, these shoes can be used on both indoor as well as outdoor tracks.

Trail-Running Shoes

These are ideal while undertaking a run on rugged, non-paved ground. Trail-running shoes can be for running outside in wet, mucky conditions because many of them come with full waterproof features. These types of shoes are heavier than road-running shoes, and feature a lugged outsole to grip varied grounds, so they aren't the best choice for running long distances on paved surfaces or treadmills. Some hikers choose trail-running shoes over classic hiking boots for lighter, more mobile footwear.

Why Choose Trail-Running Shoes: A lugged outsole is the striking feature to look for in a trail-running shoe. The outsole will be thick with deep indentations for improved traction and stability. The upper is designed with overlays to prevent rocks and other trail debris from entering the shoe. If you are the type to go on runs through rocky trails, look for a rubber toe guard for that added bit of extra protection, you don't want to be stubbing your toe on a rock in the middle of a run.

Why Trail-Running Shoes: People who want to keep fit whilst still getting to enjoy the beauty of the nature rather than the four walls of a gym will love the trail-running option. Wear trail-running shoes for all types of trails, dirt paths and any countryside running that requires more grip.