Today we will be learning about the do’s and don'ts for Parkour shoes. I remember when I first started training and I was looking to buy a nice pair of Traceur kicks but I couldn't find very much info on the characteristics of a good Parkour shoe. I ended up getting a less than effective pair that handicapped my training for the next 5 months. I hope this article will prevent you from making the same mistake I did.
Overview
When you are first starting out, any decent running shoe will do. But once you decide to go out and try your luck searching for a new pair, take note of the following guidelines
Grip
Grip is arguably the most important aspect of a Parkour shoe, but it shouldn't be your only priority when picking the right shoe for you. Often times, extremely grippy shoes wear down faster than denser, less grippy shoes. The design of the sole is also something to take note of. The best shoes have one solid piece of rubber that won’t tear off. Shoes with many small pieces can be easily torn and ruined.
Small pieces get torn off fast.
High grip but low durability.
High durability but low grip.
High grip and high durability.
Durability
Durability will determine how long your shoes will serve you. Thicker shoes are usually more durable, but they sometimes lack flexibility. Generally the more expensive the shoe is, the higher quality it will be. Rubber durability is important too, if the rubber is low quality, it will wear away quickly, leaving you with an ugly hole.
Ugly hole.
Uglier hole.
Wear and tear.
Too many cranes.
Weak glue.
Support
The amount of support a shoe has is determined by the padding in the shoe. Shoes with a lot of padding are generally safer, they will prevent ankle rolls and painful landings. However, more padding also means less sensitivity to the obstacle; You will have a harder time feeling what’s below you with heavily padded shoes. Shoes with less support encourage joint stability and strong ankles, but be aware that they may give you sore feet the first time you train hard in them.
More support.
Less support.
Weight
The weight of the shoes play a role in your training too, heavy shoes will feel like weights for your feet (not good). Whereas light shoes will seem to disappear, you will feel as if you are wearing no shoes at all.
Style
The style of the shoe is not important. Besides, most Parkour shoes are grotesque anyways.
Very ugly.
Somewhat less ugly.
Comfort
I often disregard comfort when picking my shoes, I figure the pain is a test of willpower. But it would still be a wise decision for you to look for a pair that fit nicely. Make sure the shoes won’t chafe or dig into your foot.
Flexibility
You want your shoes to be flexible, more flexibility means more range of motion for your foot. Extremely flexible shoes are great for technical moves where it pays to be precise.
Very Flexible.
Less flexible.
Techniques
Certain shoes are better for certain techniques. For example: shoes with extensive padding and high durability would be suitable for big drops; In contrast, a flexible shoe with no padding would be great for precisions and balancing. All shoes have their trade offs, so It’s up to you to find a pair that suit you.
Closing I hope this article will be of some assistance to you in your grand quest for the perfect shoe. May your search be swift and effective, godspeed be with you!