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Zumba combines moves from dancing and regular fitness exercise to create a fun and beneficial cardio exercise. Zumba shoes come in different stylish designs and are made to ensure optimum performance as you engage in Zumba. The shoes generally have low friction compared to conventional sneakers so that you can execute Zumba moves flawlessly.
The 10 Best Zumba Shoes Reviewed
One of the things that make Zumba so appealing is that it’s heavily inspired by dancing that you don’t even know you’re working out. It’s probably the most fun way to workout. If you’re looking for a form of cardio workout that’s exciting and has all the benefits the regular workouts, Zumba is your best bet.
1
Ryka Influence
The Ryka Influence is a lightweight and very flexible Zumba shoe. It was designed to cater to those involved in high-impact exercises. The dance sneaker has an upper made from a synthetic mesh for breathability to keep your feet fresh and free of sweat during your Zumba session. The insole is a trademark insole from Ryka, and it is named Comfort Fit Precise Return, which gives you an extra bounce due to high energy returns, serves as cushioning, and also absorbs shock.
The Ryka Influence uses a high-density foam dual impact midsole for cushioning and returning energy both under the forefoot and the heel. The Ryka Influence uses a flex foil and a direct-fuse layer for support. The inside is lined with textile to prevent chafing and keep your foot very comfortable.
It has decent traction that prevents slips without being too grippy; the outsole has footprint design. The tongue is padded, which makes it more comfortable. The heel is very narrow, and it is designed as a lace-up shoe, giving it a secure fit. This Zumba shoe has a pivot-point for added maneuverability and smooth spins. The Ryka Influence comes in various beautiful colors. The Influence happens to be a cross-training shoe and is one of the best sneakers for Zumba.
Key Features:
- Pivot-point
- Comfort Fit Precise Return insole
- Padded tongue
- Dual-density N-Gage E.V.A. energy return midsole
Specification:
- Brand: Ryka
- Model: Influence
- Colour: Black multi, Sleet, Black/Atomic Pink/Royal Blue/Forge Grey, Influence/White/Aqua/Pink
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Lightweight
- Very supportive
- Flexible
Cons
- No ankle support
2
New Balance FuelCore NERGIZE9
The New Balance FuelCore NERGIZE is an impressive cross-trainer. It’s a low top with a striking design that comes in a variety of colors. The trainers are easy to slip on and have laces for extra support and snug fit. The uppers of the FuelCore NERGIZE are made from very breathable fabric.
The cross trainer is lauded for its superior level of coziness; this is seen in the materials used for cushioning. The FuelCore NERGIZE uses the Memory Sole comfort insert, which gives it a premium level of cushioning, support, and comfort. The midsole is made from lightweight foam REVLite. These soles combined give the New Balance FuelCore NERGIZE premium cushioning under your feet.
The outsole of the FuelCore NERGIZE is made from rubber, which is slippery for smooth transitions and perfect execution of dance moves; however, it has sufficient grip. The FuelCore is a cross-trainer that made in a modern style and is aesthetically pleasing and delivers excellent performance and comfort all day long.
Key Features:
- Memory Sole insert
- REVLite cushioning foam
- Slip-on design
Specification:
- Brand: New Balance
- Model: FuelCore NERGIZE
- Colour: Grey, Magnet, Black, Black & Grey
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Superior cushioning
- Easy to put on and remove
Cons
- Lacks ankle support
- Not suitable for people with high arches
3
ASICS Gel-Fit Sana 4
The ASICS Gel-Fit Sana 4 is a cross-trainer suitable for Zumba workouts. The upper is made from thin synthetic textile material, has a breathable mesh with a lace-up closure. The shoes are padded around the collar and lined inside to keep your foot very comfortable as you work out. The trainers use the trademarked MONO SOCK fit system, which gives you a secure and snug fit.
The midsole of the Gel-Fit Sana 4 is designed with a crisscross pattern to encourage flexion in multiple directions and adaptability. It uses the rear foot G.E.L. for cushioning, and it diminishes the shock from impact and toe-off. The footbed is made from textile and is very breathable.
The ASICS Gel-Fit Sana 4 uses the sturdy AHAR high abrasion rubber outsole, which gives it high levels of flexibility and durability. ASICS made an excellent Zumba dance shoe with the Gel-Fit Sana 4.
Key Features:
- Rearfoot GEL
- MONO SOCK fit technology
- AHAR rubber outsole
Specification:
- Brand: ASICS
- Model: Gel-Fit Sana 4
- Colour: Black/White, Night Shade/Purple Spectrum, Azure
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Lightweight
- Crisscross patterned midsole
- Durable outsole
- Has multidirectional flexion capabilities
Cons
- It’s too narrow
4
Capezio DS24 Rockit Dance Sneaker
The Capezio DS24 is one of the best dancing sneakers for Zumba from a brand that is known for making quality dancing shoes. The shoes are lightweight as dancing shoes should be and have a boxed toe box. The shoes are lined with paddings to give you that comfort you deserve and need, they’re also very flexible due to Caspezio’s trademark flex point system, making the shoes are perfect for executing rotations and maneuvers.
The upper has a mesh made from S.B.R. Nylex for breathability. The DS24 is built with P.U. Nubuck and imitation suede has a padded collar for additional comfort. The footbed is removable and is made from E.V.A., and is contoured to align with the natural foot shape, providing support.
The outsole is made from polyurethane and is non-marking. The outsole is made using the split-sole design and houses flex points and spin spots at the front of the shoe. The arch is perforated, which gives the already breathable dance shoes extra ventilation.
Key Features:
- Non-marking outsole
- Removable E.V.A. midsole
- S.B.R. Nylex upper
- Contoured E.V.A. footbed
Specification:
- Brand: Capezio
- Model: DS24 Rockit Dance
- Colour: Black,
- Gender: Unisex
Pros
- Very flexible
- Lightweight
- Split sole design
- Flex point
Cons
- Not suitable for wide feet
5
Zumba Air Classic Workout Sneakers
The Air Classic workout sneaker a classic high-top workout sneaker designed by Zumba; it’s made to be used during Zumba workouts. It is built with the trademark Air technology by Zumba, and this gives it more exceptional cushioning. The upper of the Zumba Air classic is made of breathable mesh and is lined with a material that wicks off sweat to keep your feet dry and cool during your workout.
The midsole is lightweight E.V.A., which makes the Zumba Air Classic very comfortable and protects your feet from impact and reduces the risk of injury. The insole is removable and is made from polyurethane, which is known for high energy returns in shoes, so foot fatigue is reduced.
The Zumba Air Classic workout sneaker has a pivot point, an essential but not common feature of Zumba shoes. The pivot uses the Z slide technology, which makes turns and spins easy. The rubber outsole provides you the grip you need, yet allows you to glide smoothly across the floor.
Key Features:
- Air technology
- E.V.A. midsole
- Pivot point
Specification:
- Brand: Zumba
- Model: Air Classic Athletic High Top
- Colour: Denim, Gold, Yellow, Black, Silver
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Has a pivot point
- Air technology cushioning
- Very breathable
Cons
- It looks a bit bulky
6
ASICS GEL-Fit Tempo 3
The G.E.L. Fit Tempo 3 is one of the top cross trainers made by ASICS. It has a mesh upper in the forefoot and midfoot sections constructed from flexible synthetic materials. It features a lace-up closure and provides ankle support with the padded collar. The inside is lined with smooth textile constructed seamlessly to keep your foot comfortable.
The ASICS GEL-Fit Tempo 3 has a durable midsole for shock absorption, and it runs the length of the shoe. The heel section of the G.E.L. Fit Tempo 3 uses the trademarked Rearfoot Gel cushioning system in the midsole. It mitigates shock from the impact of your feet hitting the floor, has a high energy return rate, and provides heel stability. The midsole thins out towards the toe to promote natural foot flexion.
The outsole extends a bit to the toe, serving as a form of protection. Underneath, there are flex grooves that accommodate multidirectional flexion. AHAR+ is put underneath the heel and forefoot to extend the life of the sole.
The shoes are suitable for dancing. It is designed for high impact workouts, which makes it one of the best Zumba shoes for bad knees as it prevents shock from reaching your knees.
Key Features:
- Rearfoot Gel cushioning
- AHAR+ rubber outsole
Specification:
- Brand: ASICS
- Model: G.E.L. Fit Tempo 3
- Colour: Carbon/Limelight/Silver, Pink/Silver/Melon, Black/Silver/White, Mid Grey/Silver/Bay
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Provides you with heel stability
- Lightweight
- Provides support
- Gives you ankle stability
Cons
- Not enough cushioning in the forefoot
7
Ryka Tenacity
The Ryka Tenacity is a cross-trainer for women who are in search of the best shoes for dance cardio like Zumba. The uppers of the Tenacity is made from breathable synthetic mesh and is lined inside with fabric for comfort. It comes in a range of stunning colors with beautiful patterns. The shoe has a lace-up design and a rounded toe.
The Ryka Tenacity is a high top trainer that has a Velcro strap at the midfoot, which in addition to the lacing system, which provides added security and adjustability to give you a snug fit. The Tenacity uses a flex foil and Direct Fuse layers for support.
The insole of the cross-trainers is lined with a smooth fabric, which makes it comfy. The footbed is the trademarked RE-ZORB. The Tenacity has a dual midsole that provides cushioning, even at pressure points of the forefoot. The outsole of the Tenacity is made from rubber, and it is fitted with a pivot point, which makes it easy to dance in the studio. The Tenacity also stabilizes the heel with an I.H.G clip.
Key Features:
- Pivot point
- Flex Foil
- I.H.G. Clip
- Velcro strap
- RE-ZORB footbed
- Dual foam midsole
Specification:
- Brand: Ryka
- Model: Tenacity
- Colour: Black/Green, Silver, Leopard, Yellow/Pink, Brilliant White
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Provides heel support
- Supports the ankle
- Secure fit
- Pivot point makes dancing easy
Cons
- Feels a bit bulky on the feet
- Not suitable for wide feet
8
Bloch Boost Split Sole Dance Sneakers
Bloch is an established brand in producing dance gear, and the Boost is a lace-up dance sneaker with a variable lacing system, and split sole from them. The upper is made from suede and mesh, which is both breathable and light. The sneakers are lined with Dri-Lex, a wrinkle-free, odor, and mildew resisting material.
The Bloch Boost has a lightweight midsole made by hand and has an air cushion that can absorb the shock of up to 4PSI. The outsole of the dance sneakers is a non-marking, 4 part high-density outsole made by hand and features a spin spot. The heel is cushioned with D.R.T. (Dynamic Resistance Technology), which has a high impact absorbing capabilities.
Key Features:
- Suede and Mesh upper
- Dri-Lex lining
- High-density spin spot
- Air cushioning
- D.R.T. cushioning
- Compression-molded E.V.A. insole
Specification:
- Brand: Bloch
- Model: Boost Split Sole
- Colour: Black, Pink
- Gender: Male and Female
Pros
- It has superb cushioning
- Provides arch support
- Breathable
- Odor and mildew resistant
Cons
9
Nike Flex Trainer 8
The Nike Flex Trainer 8 is a lightweight trainer for women made for intense sessions. The Trainer 8 uses a lightweight, abrasion-resistant, and breathable closed-hole mesh fabric for the uppers. The uppers keep the shoes very breathable. The trainer offers lateral support through medial and lateral panels, which Nike added with a seamless design.
The midfoot of the trainer makes use of Flywire cables, which are integrated with the lace-up system. It gives the Flex Trainer 8 a comfortable, non-restricting, snug, and secure fit. It has a padded collar for ankle support as it locks it in place.
Nike designed the Flex Trainer 8 with dual-density foam for the midsole. The dual-density foam serves two purposes: to dampen shock and to offer lateral stability. It has a molded insole for extra cushioning.
The outsole of the Nike Flex Trainer uses the Nike Flex Technology, and it is made a very durable foam rubber for excellent traction. The Nike Flex Technology ensures that the foot flexes naturally through the thin slits on the sole. The tread on the outsole is constructed with a Tri-Star pattern, which promotes a multidirectional grip.
For added durability, the Nike Trainer has rubber pods on areas subject to wear.
Key Features:
- Flymesh material
- Dual-density foam midsole
- Tri-Star outsole pattern
- Nike Flex Technology
Specification:
- Brand: Nike
- Model: Flex Trainer 8
- Colour: White, Black,
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Lightweight
- It uses a dual-density midsole
- Has good multidirectional grip
Cons
- A bit narrow
10
Reebok Guresu 2.0
The Reebok Guresu 2.0 is a versatile and lightweight cross-trainer. The shoe has a neoprene upper, which makes it comfortable, easy to slip on due to its elastic nature, and well fitted. The design of the Guresu 2.0 makes it very supportive of your ankle. The heel and midfoot are supported by Gore wraps, which is interwoven with the lace-up closure. The Gore supports also provide lateral and rear stabilization and prevents slippage.
The midsole of the Reebok Guresu is the Lightweight and responsive Astro Ride foam, which absorbs shock and protects you from impact-related injury. The Guresu 2.0 features a removable ortholite insole, which is very comfortable on its own, however, if you prefer more premium orthotics, you can have them replaced. The Reebok Guresu 2.0 has a midfoot wrap system. The outsole of the Guresu is made from durable rubber, which provides traction, and has a Turnzone pivot point.
Key Features:
- Astro Ride foam
- Removable ortholite sock liner
- TurnZone pivot point
Specification:
- Brand: Reebok
- Model: Guresu 2.0
- Colour: White, Crushed Cobalt, Cold Grey
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Has a pivot point
- Enhanced cushioning
Cons
- The outsoles are a bit grippy
- Lacks arch support
Buying Guide Questions
Are there special shoes for Zumba?
You can’t wear just any type of shoes for Zumba, and there are shoes specially made for Zumba. The shoes provide you all you need from footwear on your Zumba journey, from style to functionality.
Zumba shoes give you the proper support needed and help your transitions to be very smooth. Shoes designed for Zumba are very comfortable due to the cushioning. The cushioning can be either rubber or foam or a combination of both. The cushioning provides comfort and protection from shock.
They also have less traction than you’ll find in conventional shoes like chef shoes or nursing shoes which have zero tolerance for slipping, which allows you to maneuver with ease while giving you sufficient lateral support. Cross trainers are the most common shoes worn for Zumba. However, any deeply treaded footwear is not suitable.
The shoes are also designed to be lightweight and not subject your foot to excessive pressure. Zumba shoes are usually designed with a pivot point, which is a patch of rubber under the heel, which makes you pivot, twist, and spin easily, just like you would if you were playing competitive outdoor basketball.
Some famous shoe brands make Zumba shoes; the chances are that your favorite shoe company makes Zumba shoes if you want to get one made by them.
Can you wear running shoes for Zumba?
Running shoes are not ideal for Zumba. As with every type of activity, you need the right footwear; wearing running shoes for Zumba may cause you to injure yourself. Running shoes have too much traction to be suitable for Zumba, and they don’t bend as much as Zumba shoes do.
Running shoes make maneuvering Zumba moves very hard and can even cause considerable damage to your foot. You can use shoes made for dancing, indoor soccer, and shoes designed for use in a studio because they are slippery. However, consider the floor where your Zumba classes would be held; some surfaces may need shoes with more grip than others.
What are the benefits of Zumba? Weight loss? Muscle building?
As a cardio exercise, Zumba is loaded with health benefits. Some people don’t take Zumba seriously and see it as ineffective and a waste of time, but it’s the contrary. Zumba is a cardio workout, that’s an excellent substitute for conventional fitness exercise or competitive running.
Zumba is known to be a great stress reliever because it’s an exercise it causes your body to release endorphins, which is known to be a feel-good hormone that will significantly improve your mood; and other stress-relieving hormones. It reduces fatigue, too, so if you always feel tired, you can opt for a Zumba class.
As you progress in Zumba, your coordination begins to improve. One of the things that make Zumba great and separate it from a regular workout is that it demands a lot of coordination from you because the movements are more complex. As you practice, you’ll begin to notice that you’re getting more coordinated than before.
It’s a known fact that cardio workouts are good for weight loss. If you want to lose some pounds, Zumba is a fun suggestion for you. You can burn up to 1,000 calories in an hour session of Zumba, and you wouldn’t even notice with the beautiful tunes playing in the background.
Zumba workout focuses on more areas and targets different groups of muscle than a regular exercise. As such, you’ll get a more thorough level of muscle toning. It helps build and strengthen your core which is why many boxers mix-in their core training with Zumba workouts.
How should you dress for Zumba?
You’ve finally signed up for a Zumba class, and you’re wondering what you should wear. Fitness clothes are perfect for Zumba; you can wear your t-shirts, sweat pants, tank tops, and even shorts. The watchword here is comfort; always go for comfortable clothing.
Some people feel a bit intimidated when they sign up for Zumba classes, not knowing what to wear, and scared of being over and or underdressed. You don’t need to be, just get a pair of Zumba shoes, and wear your favorite workout clothes.
Why are my feet hurting during Zumba? Wrong shoes?
If you’re just starting Zumba, you might feel sore for a while. Foot ache and feelings of soreness are typical for the first few classes, and when you try to perfect new moves. However, if you’re feeling pains regularly, especially in your inner arch, the chances are that you’re not wearing the appropriate shoes. maybe you are wearing volleyball shoes as someone told you that should be fine? Well try a different pair of Zumba friendly shoes and see how they feel after a week.
To avoid injuries during Zumba, you must get the right shoes. Tight shoes will cause your feet to hurt. Shoes with too much grip like running shoes are not suitable and can increase the likelihood of you developing an injury.
When shopping for shoes for Zumba, there are things you need to take note of. The first thing is to check if the shoes are an accurate fit; Zumba shoes should not be too tight neither should they have too much room. An inaccurate fit could be the cause of feet ache. Consider the weight; the best footwear for Zumba are the lightest ones.
Also, keep an eye out for shoes whose soles are bendable with flexible and breathable uppers. Cushioning matters in the soles, however, don’t get tempted to get shoes with very thick soles. You want a lightweight shoe that gives you support at the same time. It is preferred for your Zumba sneakers to have a split sole for increased flexibility.
Grippy shoes can also cause your feet to hurt during Zumba and can even lead to twisted ankles. If you feel pains in your feet, it’s advisable to see an Orthopaedic specialist. If you have bad knees from parkour or strenuous outdoor activities, arthritis or a bad back, it is advisable to avoid moves that have high impact as this will worsen your condition, and subject you to a great deal of pain.
In preparation for your Zumba class, you must take certain precautions to avoid injury to yourself. You should go over the necessary dance steps to get you acquainted. Don’t stretch before a workout; instead, do so after your class.
Make sure your instructor is certified and experienced so they can instruct you properly. Besides that, make sure the studio isn’t a makeshift one, as Zumba is not well suited for particular floors. Concrete floors, tiles and carpeted surfaces are to be avoided because they are more likely to cause you injury, instead ensure the floors are hardwood.
Is Zumba challenging to learn? What is Zumba?
Zumba is a form of exercise that’s a blend of dance and regular fitness workout. It draws inspiration from Latin dance but incorporates rumba, hip-hop, salsa, reggaeton, and other genres. The music range from fast to slow tempo. It’s a trademarked fitness program created by a Columbian choreographer.
Zumba is not difficult, although it may feel like that because it demands more from you than traditional dancing. Flawlessly executing the moves might take a while, but with practice, you’ll get it.
You don’t need to be the greatest of dancers; you can have zero dancing skills and still learn Zumba. It all boils down to dedication and consistency.
Zumba has ten different types of classes, each of varying intensity and targeted at different age groups. The Zumba Gold is meant for the elderly and beginners, so if you’re a newbie, this is a great place to start. Zumba Step focuses on exercising the lower body; Zumba Toning works the muscles all over your body, especially your thighs, arms, and abs. Aqua Zumba is carried out in a shallow pool and incorporates moves from aqua fitness workouts. Zumba Senato is a chair based workout where you use only the weight of your body for muscle toning.
Zumba in the circuit is a combination of circuit training and Zumba dance. There are Zumba classes made for children, Zumbatomic, Zumba Kids, and Kids Jr. For the elderly who wish to tone their muscles, they can go for Zumba Gold Tonning. If you want something more intense, then Strong by Zumba class is for you. Zumbini is targeted at babies and caregivers, while A Plate by Zumba teaches healthy eating.
Every Zumba class is led by an instructor who guides you through a series of movements. You have to follow the movements of the instructor as best as you can, they may use verbal cues, although verbal cues are rarely used in Zumba, and also use hand signals.
Zumba is done to a tracked energizing music, which is usually Latin, the same as the dance moves. The moves are easy enough to follow through visual cues. Hip-hop is also frequently used.
The class starts by warming up. Afterward, it moves to a stage where the fast and slow tempo is interchanged at intervals, which ends with a cooling down. As you go for that Zumba, expect a lot of lunges, bicep curls. If you feel like some moves are too complicated, you can ask the instructor to show you an alternative way of doing it.
Conclusion
If you’re about to start a Zumba class, ensure you have the proper gear: comfortable clothing and the perfect pair of Zumba shoes to go along. Make sure you don’t Zumba on an empty stomach because you’ll need the energy for the workout. However, eat a light meal, and ensure you’re adequately hydrated.
Start slowly and build up your endurance. You can start Zumba classes with as little as a class to three classes per week. As your body gets acclimated with the routine, you can increase the intensity and duration of the workout.
Don’t worry about whether or not you’re getting the moves correctly as you start. The more you practice, the more perfect your moves would be. If you have any medical concerns, especially asthma, heart, and kidney problem, see your doctor and let them advise you accordingly.