A year and a half ago, I got introduced to zumba almost by accident. I was taking a morning sampler workout class, which offered a different exercise routine every two weeks. I had to travel during the first week of zumba, but luckily caught the second week because I was instantly hooked.
Soon after starting zumba workouts, it was apparent that I didn’t have the right shoes. With all the jumping, twisting, and lateral moves, my Puma cross trainers were holding me back and also a bit dangerous.
I did a few google searches and found several lists of the “Best Shoes for Zumba.” From the lists, I chose a pair-Ryka Studio D-that I felt might work best for me and they did. The Ryka Studio D significantly improved the quality of my zumba workouts.
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| Ryka Studio D |
I have owned my first pair of Rykas for almost a year now and they have held up quite well, but with my rigorous workout schedule, it’s time for a new pair. Of course, my plan was to get a new pair of the same shoe. When I tried to do just that, however, the Studio D was sold out everywhere (Zappos now has them back in stock for $60). I sought an alternative and found the Ryka Transition.
I hesitated to get the Transition sneaker at first, but a couple weeks ago when I saw that Finish Line had them on sale for $29.98, I snagged them. I didn’t think it was possible, but I actually like the Transition even more than the Studio D. They are mesh for easy breathability. The ortholite insole is removable and can be washed. The midsoles provide superb lateral stability. The soles have minimal grip making it easy to move on the dance floor. And, unlike other dance shoes, my feet feel like they are in a cushioned paradise.
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| Ryka Transition |
Finish Line has the above color on sale. I might need a backup pair, though, perhaps the white (on sale at Amazon for $49.96)?
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| Top-GapBodyFit, Pants-Kyodan via Marshalls Shoes-Ryka Transition via Finish Line |
LOVE those! I need some new fitness shoes…love your blog to 😉
I was passing through different blogs and thought id just say hello. Richard from the Amish community of Lebanon,Pa.
I saw some Rykas at the DSW off Brentwood the other day and REALLY liked them (I'm looking for a new pair of cross trainers with serious lateral support)…but I didn't buy them because I wanted to do more research on the quality – from what I've seen they aren't super well known, but the quality looks nice (and they're SO cute!)
@Abbie: Thanks! Rykas have worked so well for me, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend that you try them.
@AmishStories: Thanks for stopping by!
@Ashley: That's the DSW I always shop in! How cool. DSW sure does carry Ryka shoes and the Transition style is in store too (the price is still a tad steep though). I got introduced to Ryka shoes a year ago. They are very popular in the dance fitness circles. I am confident that you will find a pair with great lateral support. I have never worn or owned sneakers this comfortable and supportive. Give 'em a try!
Had to add my comment on the Rykas…I responded to your post last year re/Rykas when you wrote about using them for Zumba…I don't do Zumba but I do power walk 10-12,000steps per day…My Rykas are the marshmallow shoes of the universe…I absolutely love how my feet feel in these babies…I am still on the same pair and they are doing sooo well…I just bought a replacement pair at DSW so that I would not be without them..
Love these shoes!Â
I'll have to check it out.