Cross training sneakers are becoming increasingly popular among serious and recreational strength athletes alike. These shoes are built for adaptability and have become a go-to for any weight-bearing, jumping, or running workout. While the term “cross training shoe” has grown more popular than ever, it is not a new concept.
Cross training sneakers cross-training-shoes are becoming increasingly popular among serious and recreational strength athletes alike. These shoes are built for adaptability and have become a go-to for any weight-bearing, jumping, or running workout. While the term “cross training shoe” has grown more popular than ever, it is not a new concept.
Cross training shoes may be traced back to the 1980s, when Nike and Reebok attempted to create shoes that could be used for running, aerobics, and lifting all in the same session. Keep in mind that, despite being technically a multipurpose shoe, cross training shoes have taken a considerably more niche turn since then, and shoes are now built with very specific objectives.
Guide to Cross-Training Shoes
In this piece, we’ll go over three of the most prevalent features seen in cross training shoes. It’s crucial to state up front that no two shoes are the same, so there may be some differences in construction between models, but the main aspects that are consistent across the board will be thoroughly covered.
Features of Cross-Training Shoe Construction
We’re convinced that after reading this article, you’ll have a lot better notion of what type of cross training shoe you should select based on your comprehension of the below structural elements.
1. Heel Support for Cross-Training Shoes
When it comes to cross training shoes, one of the most important factors to consider is heel support. The heel on cross trainers is one of the most distinguishing features that distinguishes them from traditional sneakers. These shoes’ heels are frequently more firmer, which is fantastic for weight bearing activities but not always ideal for everyday wear.
The materials used in the heels of cross trainers are frequently the same as those used in weightlifting shoes. Three materials commonly used in cross trainer heels are listed below. Orange Material Under High Abrasion Rubber — White Rubber Under Orange EVA Foam — White Layer Above Orange TPU
Don’t worry if you’re unsure about the information presented here. TPU, the orange layer above, is a plastic layer that is extremely robust, light, and compression resistant. This substance is also employed in the heels of popular weightlifting shoes; it’s a plastic, so it’s easy to feel out and locate on shoes.
The rubber outsole and EVA foam are easily distinguishable and engineered to create a natural reaction while resisting compression. Simply press your finger into the stiffness of a shoe’s foam on the midsole to feel how the shoe will respond to wear. Because most rubber outsoles on cross trainers are firmer, they won’t change significantly.
Support for the Heel
Another element of cross training shoe heels worth highlighting is the added support they provide. This is a distinctive feature of these shoes that not only distinguishes them in terms of production but also in terms of appearance. Companies have tried to match the demands of these exercises with enhanced heel support because cross training routines can be so varied with things like rope climbs and handstand push-ups.
Reebok Functionality of the Reebok CrossFit Nano 8 Flexweave
The cosmetically different additional heel support will typically appear as an extra layer of plastic on the shoes. For example, Reebok uses a heel cup, while Nike uses a heel clip. These plastic modifications, according to both firms, are meant to help with smoothness in handstand push-ups and provide more support in compound actions.
Most cross trainers give enough support within the heel’s boot, aside from the obvious plastic modifications. You’ll be hard pressed to find a cross training shoe without beefed-up heel support materials, so keep in mind that while the plastic improvements are helpful, they’re not a deal-breaker for a good cross training shoe.
Midsole Materials Increased
Increased midsole material is a last and minor structural characteristic found on some cross training shoes. Cross trainers include somewhat more midsole material than regular sneakers to give grip for rope climbs and more support for activities like the squat.
2. Outer Construction of Cross Training Shoes
The exterior construction, after the heel, is the second most important construction aspect to consider. Okay, so you discovered a shoe with a sturdy basis, which is fantastic; can it now withstand a year or two of intense workouts? Well, the exterior construction will be a major predictor of that cross training shoe feature.
Most cross training shoes will have numerous layers of material on their exterior construction, and no two shoes are the same, so we can’t give you a definitive answer as to what each shoe’s material will have, however we can give you some examples.
Outer Construction: Reebok Speed TR Flex weave
- Mesh Synthetic
- Rubber with texture
- Flex weave
- CORDURA®
- Fly knit
- Dyneme
- Nylon
- Cloth Mixtures
For a couple of reasons, cross training sneakers with numerous layers are ideal. For starters, they make the shoe more durable. Second, they’re more resistant to stretching out, which is important while squatting, lifting Olympic weights, and jumping.
Our Advice: When looking at different shoes, pay attention to the outward structure and spend time reading about the materials. Every shoe is built to last, but some materials perform better in certain situations, such as rope climbs or actions that produce a lot of friction on the shoe.
Check out our individual model reviews for more information, as we test each shoe for these exact durability and construction characteristics.
- Metcon 4 by Nike
- Metcon x Nike Free
- Speed TR by Reebok
- Reebok Flexweave Speed TR
- CrossFit Nano 8 Flexweave by Reebok
- Trainers by NOBULL
- Nike DSX Flyknit
- Nike TR V8
3. Cross-Training Shoe Innovation
Shoe technology isn’t just for sneakerheads and hypebeasts; in fact, we’d argue that if you’re shopping around and doing your research, you’re already a sneakerhead (on top of being a careful shopper!).
Metcon Nike Free Construction
Cross Training shoes include more technology than most people realise or credit them with. Nike’s Flywire and Flyknit, as well as Reebok’s Flexweave, CORDURA, and Dyneema materials, are examples of technology. All of these characteristics are unique to the shoe and used to generate a unique response. All of these materials, for example, have an effect on a shoe’s long-term durability, breathability, and workout support.
Message for Takeaway
Do your homework. Cross training shoes are getting better all the time, and there are more options than ever before. These shoes for huge lifts and models for more running-focused exercises and everyday wear are both available. If you’re shopping for a new pair of these shoes, develop a list of your most important requirements and then match them to the shoe’s construction. For more related articles please visit: trimandsassy.com