Treadmills have become one of the most popular gym equipment in recent times, and for good reasons. Using a treadmill gives you all the advantages of your outdoor jogs without the added worry of sidewalks, uneven terrains, obstructions and so on. It is, therefore, no real surprise that more and more treadmill associated products like treadmill running shoes are being sold every day.
The type of shoes you use with your treadmill could go a long way in determining the result you get from your workouts. It is therefore vital that you get the right shoes. We have put together this guide to help you make a more informed decision when choosing a shoe for your treadmill workouts.
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How to choose the best treadmill running shoes
There are many Treadmill running shoes on the market today, so picking one may prove a bit tricky for you. Choosing a treadmill running shoe is much more than just picking the first one you come across. It is important you choose one that suits you perfectly. Here are some of the features to consider before choosing a treadmill running shoe.
Weight
The weight of your running shoes is one of the determinants of the type of experience you have running, especially when going for long periods. Of course, you don’t want to tire yourself before completing your daily workout quota, so it is vital that you consider the weight of the shoe before making your purchase.
Flexibility
A study shows that runners on treadmills land with flatter feet than when they run on land. Also, runners on the treadmill usually have shorter strides than on land. It is vital that your shoe is flexible enough to allow for the difference in ankle movement on a treadmill. The flexibility of the shoe plays a huge role in the level of comfort you get.
Cushioning
Cushioning is another feature that you have to consider when getting a treadmill running shoe, especially if you will be making long runs on the machine. Cushioning directly affects the comfort the shoe offers and it usually affects the weight of the shoe. It is vital that you get the right balance between cushioning and weight, as lightweight shoes often have little cushioning.
Breathability
Here’s a fun fact for you. The feet have the highest number of sweat glands in the body. A shoe made from breathable material provides a natural cooling system for your feet. This will improve your overall running experience and will help you run for longer periods.
Fit
Fit is perhaps the most important feature to consider when choosing a treadmill running shoe. I mean, if the shoe isn’t a perfect fit for you, it wouldn’t matter if it has great cushioning, excellent weight, or good flexibility. It is vital that you consider the fit of the shoe before making a purchase. Most brick-and-mortar stores would allow you to try the shoe out. If you are making your purchase online, then you will need to get the right measurement of your feet.
TOP 6 best treadmill running shoes
1. ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoes
ASICS is one of the most popular running shoe brands on the market today with many top quality shoes to their name. Gel-Venture 6 is one of their great products. It features a Rearfoot GEL cushioning system that gives you a unique level of comfort. The reverse lugs on the rubber sole mean you have excellent traction either uphill or downhill. This durable treadmill running shoe boasts an AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) outsole that improves its durability.
One of the drawbacks of the shoe is the width, which is wider than what you will find on many other running shoes. The overall size is also a bit large, which is a bit of a concern for many treadmill users. The impressive technology used on the Gel-Venture 6 absorbs shock during impact and gives you a powerful take-off. Another interesting feature is the removable sockliner that makes the accommodation of a medical orthotic easy.
2. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4 Lace-Up
If you are familiar with running shoes, then you would have come across a couple of products from Skechers. The Performance Go Walk 4 Lace-Up is another one of their top-quality products. If you are looking for a lightweight running shoe made with breathable material, then this shoe is an excellent choice for you. Looking at this shoe, it is pretty obvious that Skechers took their time designing it, with its comfortable flexibility and supportive midsole.
One of the most significant drawbacks to using this shoe is the fact that the lack of significant support on the shoe makes it more suitable for walking on treadmills than running. Also, the width tends to be quite narrow, making it unsuitable for people with wide feet.
The GoGa mat used on this shoe is one of the features that easily distinguishes it from the rest. This GoGa mat holds up longer than the memory foam used in most other running shoes.
3. Brooks Women’s Ghost 11
Brooks is another reputable brand with a good number of treadmill running shoes on the market. Ghost 11 is one of their most widely accepted products today. This treadmill running shoe offers a nice cushioning that gives you maximum comfort. The lightweight material used makes it suitable for prolonged use. One of the selling points of Ghost 11 is its BioMoGo mid-sole, which is unique to Brooks and biodegrades quickly. This makes the Ghost 11 perhaps the most environmentally friendly shoe you will find on the market. No wonder it was given the Runner’s World Editor’s Choice award.
One of the biggest downsides of the Brooks Ghost 11 treadmill running shoe is the fact that it is a bit on the pricey side. The price is quite understandable though if you consider its excellent features. Also, the groove design makes it easy for pebbles to get stuck in them. If you need a wide shoe, then Ghost 11 may not be the best option for you.
4. Nike Women’s Tanjun Running Sneaker
This list of top treadmill running shoes will be incomplete without at least a product from Nike. This global brand has a lot of running shoes on the market, but the Women’s Tanjun stands out for the unique qualities that make it an excellent choice for treadmill users. It boasts a breathable lightweight textile, making it comfortable for prolonged use. It features a cushioned foam outsole and a midsole that absorbs shock and adds a spring to your step.
Just as the name implies, the Nike Tanjun is really a shoe of simplicity. The simple and comfortable design also makes it suitable for use outside the gym. The shoe has a durable midsole and an overall high level of durability. What’s more? It is a budget running shoe.
The shoe is not without its flaws, as it runs a bit small, making it unsuitable for runners with large feet. Also, the shoe doesn’t do an excellent job in guarding your feet against cold, and it doesn’t do well in the rain.
5. New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080v7
New Balance is another top-of-the-line brand with numerous products to its name. The Fresh Foam 1080v7 is a treadmill running shoe that delivers in terms of comfort, and it competes well in terms of design. The sole is designed to have a high level of traction for easy use on treadmill surfaces. The shoe comes at a very nice fit, so you don’t have to worry about it being too wide or too narrow. The rubber sole is quite sturdy and provides the necessary support during your workout.
The soft cushioning in the shoe and the light weight makes it a top choice for users looking for comfort. The shock absorbing quality of the midsole improves your overall user experience. One drawback though is the fact that the shoe is a bit more expensive than most other running shoes. Also, some users have complained about the arch support being inadequate. The back of the heel could also rub your heel, although this is mostly common if the shoe not your perfect fit.
6. Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam QT Racer Running Shoe
You would be hard-pressed finding a list of the best treadmill running shoes without one from Adidas. The Cloudfoam QT Racer is one of Adidas’ most reputable running shoes. The shoe comes in up to about 7 colors, giving you a wide range of color options. If you like style and comfort, then the Cloudfoam QT Racer is the right choice for you. The Adidas Cloudfoam technology and the cushioned insole gives you an unparalleled level of comfort.
This lightweight running shoe has a shock-absorbent midsole, giving you a unique spring on the treadmill. Also, you don’t have to worry about the weight on the shoe, as the sturdy soles can handle heavy weight. The padded collar near the ankle means you don’t have to worry about the back heel rubbing on your heel.
One of the drawbacks of using the shoe is the fact that it has no arch support. Some users have also complained about the cheap looking material which isn’t such a surprise considering it is a budget shoe. Also, the breathability of the fabric used is not as good as what you will find on some other treadmill running shoes.
FAQs
Let’s look at some of the questions that users often ask concerning treadmill running shoes.
How long can my shoe last?
Immediately you start using your best treadmill running shoes, it starts to tend towards the end of its life cycle. You don’t expect to use your shoes forever right? Over time, the guts or EVA of the running shoe will begin to break down. Your shoes will not degrade on the treadmill as fast as if you use them on concrete or asphalt. On the treadmill, you can use your shoe for about 500 miles. Of course, this also depends on other factors.
How can I extend the lifespan of my shoe?
Apart from maintaining your shoe well by cleaning it often and storing it adequately, you can also extend its lifespan by rotating your shoes. What does this mean? When you use a shoe for a while, it is advisable that you get a second pair to rotate with. This will increase the resting period of your shoes, thereby prolonging both shoes.
Do I need different shoes for the treadmill and outdoor running?
Most runners actually use the same shoes for running on a treadmill or running outside. This isn’t really a problem, although runners on the treadmill may opt for lighter shoes that offer less cushioning. This is because the treadmill surface is softer than outdoor surfaces, so you may not need the type of cushioning you will need for outdoor runs.
Conclusion
Treadmills have become one of the most important gym equipment today, and it is easy to understand why. Running or taking jogs outside can be sometimes unpleasant, especially when the weather isn’t really favorable. With treadmills, you don’t have to experience this, as you can complete your daily routine mileage without leaving the comfort of your house.
Just like any other physical activity, it is vital that you get the right pair of shoes for your workout on the treadmill. The shoes you use could affect your workout experience as well as the result you get from your workout. Getting a shoe can be quite a chore considering the number of shoes available on the market. If you are looking to get a treadmill shoe, then this guide is an excellent place to start your search.
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