Sneakers

Finding the perfect running shoe isn't always an easy task but finding the right pair is important to help prevent injury. But where to start? Because there are several styles and options to choose from, we've created a go-to glossary to help you find your sole mate. Once you've determined your arch and gait type (a running store or your running partner can help) turn to this guide that explains the different styles of shoes available. From a barefoot fit to extra stability, it comes down to what works best for you and your workout.

• Barefoot: Barefoot running shoes have become increasingly popular over the last few years and are the closest you'll get to actually running barefoot. Most styles look like gloves for your feet, providing minimal protection and cushioning. Barefoot shoes, with a "zero drop" from heel to toe, encourage a more natural mid-foot strike. This style of sneakers is thought to engage all the muscles of the feet, encourage good posture, and help train you to land correctly. But, you shouldn't try these shoes blindly; it will take your body time to adjust to avoid injury. Prep yourself first with these tips, then consider our favorites.
• Minimalist: Minimalist running shoes are the happy medium between barefoot shoes and traditional kicks; they are also a great way to ease into barefoot running. Always lightweight, they have little to no arch support but still offer some cushion and flexibility. If you are used to tons of cushion, adjusting to minimalist shoes can take time.

See which shoes offer more stability and cushioning after the break!

Over time, running shoes lose their ability to absorb shocks, properly cushion steps, and support arches. If you continue to run in old sneakers, it increases the stress and impact on your legs and joints, which is a surefire way to develop shin splints, stress fractures, or other overuse injuries. You're supposed to replace sneakers after 300 to 500 miles, but that's not too helpful if you're not keeping track of mileage and can't remember the date you bought your last pair.

Depending on how hard you are on your shoes, you'll know it's time to buy a new pair when you notice they are becoming too loose, you feel joint or muscle pain while running or after you run, or they're obviously worn with fray or holes. The bottom line is go by how they feel, and if they are not as comfortable or as supportive as you think they should be, it's time to go shopping!

Keep the old pair around for dirty house projects or weekend errands, or, even better, donate them — it's Earth Month after all!

Learn where you can donate your shoes after the break!

There's no doubt that Spring is the season of sneakers, but today, we're digging a little deeper with the fashion set's latest obsession. Specifically, it's all about the printed sneaker, with classic brands like Converse, Keds, and Nike collaborating with designers to create supercool kicks to go with all of your warm-weather outfits. Even if you're not the typical tomboy type, the latest floral, graphic, and cheeky patterned options are sure to complement even the girliest look. Try pairing your printed pair with jeans, a patterned tee, and smart trench coat for an effortless transitional look. Once the temperature warms up, pair your eye-catching kicks with a flirty dress or cropped trousers. Inspired? Shop our editors' picks below.

At some point in their lives, your kids will probably have to learn to tie their own shoes. But thanks to a super-cool new elastic lacing system called Hickies, that day doesn't have to be today. The product, which gained its funding from a Kickstarter campaign, allows users to turn their shoes into slip-ons with stretchy "laces" that come in a range of customizable colors. The most amazing thing about Hickies? One size fits all — from your tiny tot's first pair of kicks to your own trusty adult-sized sneakers. Before making a purchase, you can download the brand's virtual dressing room app to try Hickies on with your own shoes.

The product recently made appearances in gift bags at both the Grammys and Oscars, and for just $15/set, it can become a part of your own little one's (or your own) footwear wardrobe as well. All in favor of making getting out the door in the morning just a little bit easier, say Hickies!

While feeling connected to the ground is something I appreciate during a gym workout, I didn't think this same feeling could translate to a hike — out in the wild, a stiffer shoe is the rule. I was dubious when Merrell sent me its new minimalist hiking shoe, but after going on numerous hikes in the Proterra Vim Sport ($100), I can't wear anything else on my feet. With hiking season just about to hit, here's why the Vims make an excellent choice on the trail.

Before I even got the Vims out of the box, I was struck at both the weight and size of the shoes. The Vims weigh in at only 24 ounces; surprisingly lightweight for a hiking shoe. On my first hike out, I found that I appreciated how light the Vims are; it made maneuvering the trail much easier, and unlike my other hiking shoes, I wasn't keenly aware of the added weight on my feet. This helped me move a bit quicker, and also added to my comfort level, which was especially important on a recent 10-mile hike. While many hiking shoes use steel to offer stability, Merrell saves ounces by using Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) in the arch, which allows for more flexibility. While I felt more connected to the ground in the Vims — but not so much I felt every twig and rock under my feet — they're still built with stiff support. In addition to stable arch support, the midsole is built with PU to offer added stability. While these shoes will definitely be my go-to for most day hikes, I would probably opt for a steel design for any difficult hiking with rough terrain.

Keeping reading to learn even more about the Vims!

There's something about superhero red sneakers that makes me feel like a crazy-fast runner, with the ability to zip up hills with ease and blast through miles and miles without stopping. If you're in the market for some new running shoes for the warmer weather, check out these vibrant sneaks from Puma (that also come in silver white and black) — Mobium Elite Women's Running Shoe ($110)

These kicks are made for neutral runners who strike with the midfoot or forefoot, and the first thing I noticed about them is how spongy the sole felt when running. I felt almost gazelle-like with each step, which is one of the best feelings to have when you're sweating it out on a run. The fabric of the shoe is also slightly stretchy, which is one of Puma's main selling points — that this shoe "adapts to you," meaning to your expanding and contracting foot as you run. I definitely appreciated that. The shoe felt roomy, yet supportive since the fabric hugged and moved with my foot.

I also liked that the fabric is made of breathable mesh, which is great for warmer weather or indoor running to prevent sweating that can lead to blisters. For those of you still dealing with temps in the 30s or 40s, I'd hold off until Spring weather arrives or you'll end up with cold feet. Another interesting feature is the elastic Mobium Band than runs through the outside of the sole of the shoe in a figure eight. Just like your foot's tendons, the more force you apply with each step, the more spring the band gives in response.

With the super-snug fit offers one drawback — these shoes can't easily be slipped off after a run without you having to bend over and untie them. It's not the worse thing in the world, but a little annoying when you're rushing to get into the shower after your post-run stretch session. All in all, I'm a fan and would recommend these to fellow runners looking for a supportive, lightweight shoe.

High-quality sneakers definitely aren't cheap! Costing upward of $150, new running shoes can put quite a dent in your wallet. It's recommended that you replace sneakers every 300 to 500 miles, which works out to every five to eight months if you're running 15 miles a week. If your weekly mileage is more, then you need to replace them even sooner (cue the cash register sound). You definitely don't want to compromise on support or functionality, so try these strategies for prolonging the life of your shoes.

Buy Shoes Based on Terrain
If you run on uneven, wet trails, you'll quickly wear through sneakers made for the road. Purchase shoes specifically designed for the surface you usually run on, and they'll last a lot longer.

Use Them Only For Running
Even if your running shoes are cute enough for post-workout errands, reserve them just for your runs. The more you wear them, the faster they'll wear out.

Undo the Laces
Rushing to fit your workout in means saving time whenever you can. But slipping your sneakers on or off without untying the laces can stretch out your sneaks, affecting the snug fit, causing you to need a new pair earlier than expected.

Air Them Out
Whether your kicks are wet from sweat or rain, don't store them in a dark closet or stashed in your gym bag. Musty, moldy shoes will need to be replaced even sooner than the recommended time. Don't place them on a radiator or in the dryer either — extreme heat will damage the leather and other fabrics on the shoe.

Alternate Between Two Pairs
If you rack up serious mileage each week, alternating between two different pairs allows them to fully dry out between runs. Reserve one pair for dirtier runs (dirt roads) and one pair for cleaner runs (treadmill).

Whether you're out on the streets or shaking it up in dance class, the new Reebok Dance UR Lead Mid shoes ($85) make a bold statement with their midcut reach and vibrant hues.

This retro design from Reebok satisfies the demand for a dance-specific sneaker: breathable, cushioned, and lightweight, they feel like a supportive second skin. After wearing the Reebok Dance UR Lead Mids in both Zumba and POUND classes, I found them to be perfect for a high-impact aerobic dance workout. Jumping, shaking, and stomping in both these classes, I wasn't held back once by the shoes — a problem I regularly have when wearing traditional running shoes during a dance workout.

As opposed to running shoes which are made for the front-to-back motion of running and not so great for the side-to-side dance movements, the thin sole and tread pattern on the bottom are designed to move in all directions, freeing up the feet, and helping you feel more agile. The shoes allowed for plenty of easy pivoting, and I was able to slide across the floor with the right amount of traction and control. Running shoes can be tough on ankles in dance classes, but the high-top-inspired ankle reach, extra cushioning, and two Velcro straps across the top of the shoe also helped to stabilize the ankle without limiting mobility. As a big fan of going barefoot whenever possible, I found these kicks to be surprisingly comfortable and flexible.

From the first time I laced up, I was impressed with their feel and design and received a ton of questions, compliments, and double takes from fellow classmates. While the shoes are a little bulky to transport in a gym bag, the experience in class is well worth the hassle. If you're a Zumba enthusiast who has been looking for the right shoes, investing in this wild pair from Reebok will pay off. The Reebok Dance UR Lead Mids are available in four color schemes that you can check out here.