Footwear that covers a lot of ground
They’re known variously as “cross-trainers,” “fitness trainers” or “sport trainers.” But you probably just call them gym shoes -- footwear designed for health club use. These multi-taskers are supposed to provide a firm platform for weightlifting, Spinning and working out on elliptical training machines, and they have grippy soles for quick moves on the racquetball court or in the aerobics studio. And they’re usually fine for a little (but not a lot of) treadmill running. Here’s a collection of four cross-trainers for men and women.
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Good for running too
Asics 110 TR: Versatile cross-trainer well-suited for running.
Likes: Herringbone-patterned sole (slotted channels, commonly found on tennis and basketball shoes) provides good grip for racquet sports and aerobics. Has gel pads under the rear heel. Good for moderate-length treadmill running (about five miles). Many colors -- the all-black model has a chic look.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $59; (800) 333-8404; www.asicstiger.com.
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Roomy, with wide sizes
New Balance 852: A good choice for weightlifters and those with wide feet.
Likes: Nice and roomy. Optional 6E width is the widest on the market.
Flat, wide sole is very stable for pumping iron. Grips well for racquetball and basketball. Fine for all aerobic machines, except treadmills.
Dislikes: Too stiff, heavy and sweaty for more intense aerobics and running activities. (Hard-core runners may want to try the better-cushioned New Balance 1005 ($100), which comes in widths up to 4E.)
Price: $90; (800) 343-1395; www.newbalance.com.
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On the treadmill, or the court
Nike Air Max Mobile: Lightweight running and court sports shoe.
Likes: Good choice for treadmill runners. Flexible and well-cushioned. Unique split sole has a herringbone pattern on the inside, running lugs on the outside. Snazzy air-streak design.
Dislikes: Narrow; cramped my size D feet. Not as stable as others while lifting heavy free weights, probably due to the height of the air-cushioned heel.
Price: $85; www.niketown.com.
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Comes with weights
Heavy Air Power Shoes: Innovative snap-on, weighted heel is a conversation piece.
Likes: Shiny 1-pound weight easily attaches to shoe’s heel in seconds. Provides a great strength workout for your legs, just by walking. (You can walk the dog in them or try them on the treadmill, especially at a steep incline, for a good hiking-type workout.) Using them for just a few days, I noticed an increase in my stamina, strength and jumping height. It’s a decent basketball shoe too.
Dislikes: Clunky for running. Made by a tiny company in Santa Barbara. Expensive. For now, available only on the Internet.
Price: $169; www.heavyair.com.
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-- Roy M. Wallack