Maybe it’s because the Olympics are this year, but athletic footwear is a hot commodity of late. (Thank goodness we can’t say the same for tiny Speedos.)
For those dedicated fans of the old-school standby Chuck Taylors, there may be too many bells and whistles on the newfangled footwear, but we think it’s about time to bring your sport shoes up to speed. Especially after New Year’s, don’t let your crusty kicks be the reason you’re not getting yourself to the gym. Don’t kid yourself—the male version of shapewear will not work for an entire year.
Please bear in mind that athletic shoes are for athletic use. That doesn’t mean that you can’t wear your ratty old ones to do yard work or other stuff like that. But you do need a pair that’s intended for sport, even if it’s just going to the local YMCA.
To get business-y here, growth in the athletic footwear sector has driven the financial performance of companies like Foot Locker and Under Armour for more than a year, so keep your eyes out for more product selection in the coming months.
Also, recognize there is a wide variety of shoes to match a wide variety of athletic pursuits—hoops, running, tennis, golf, soccer, cycling, bowling, heck—even chasing the ladies.
So pick your passion and get a style of shoe that’s appropriate to your particular pastime. Pick colors and styles that mesh well with your existing sports gear, and don’t overreach in terms of performance… if you’re a mediocre pickup hoops player, there’s no reason to have the highest grade shoes on the market, not to mention it also makes you look like someone who needs a good lesson in playground humility.
Like dressing for daily life, pick what works easily with your build and size (and what you’ve already got, unless you’re in for a whole new wardrobe) as well as what keeps you comfortable on your toes.
Your feet are counting on you.
