Sneakers can easily either make or break a fitness regimen, and the wrong ones can cause real injury. So what do county fitness pros wear?
General Fitness
Nike Free 4.0 Flyknit: A one-piece upper and Flywire cables make for a snug, breathable fit that conforms to the foot.
“This is my favorite shoe to train people in all day. I have a wider foot and this sneaker has some stretch to it. The best part of the shoe is that it is super-light and has minimal support, so my foot and ankle muscles have to support my foot. Plus, being low to the ground with a soft sole activates more sensory nerves in the bottom of your foot.”
— Luke Guanzon, Refinery Strength and Conditioning, West Harrison
Running
Asics Gel Kayano 22: Asics’ bestselling long-distance running shoe includes a new FluidFit upper, a re-engineered Heel-Clutching System, and a FluidRide midsole.
“There is no ‘one sneaker fits all.’ The best running shoe is the one that feels right for you. I run in the Asics Gel Kayano 22, the only stability sneaker that completely corrects for my over-pronation. The unique gel that lines the heel and lateral part of the shoe provides unparalleled cushioning and a smooth heel-to-toe transition. I also enjoy the way Asics fit: true to size but comfortably snug.”
— Brian Ripka of RIPPED Fitness in Rye Brook
CrossFit
Nike Metcon 2: The second generation of Nike’s popular training shoe features a wide platform, abrasion-resistant film, and a zero-drag heel clip.
“The Nike Metcon 2 is the perfect cross-training sneaker. It’s solid for weightlifting but versatile enough for shorter-distance runs, calisthenics, and the normal rigors of any cross-training activity you can encounter.”
— Chris Guerrero of CrossFit Westchester in White Plains
Tennis
Wilson Rush Pro 2.0: This roomy, high-level tennis sneaker provides innovative arch technology and increased response time.
“I used Wilson shoes all through my collegiate playing career and have a level of comfort with the weight and fit. I love the traction the Rush Pro 2.0 gives you on the court. It’s a great shoe for tennis players who like to wear their tennis shoes in the gym for weight training because of the stability.”
— Ryan Berthod of Life Time Athletic Westchester in Harrison