Why wear fitness shoes?
Studies carried out at our Sportslab have shown that fitness and other sports involve a whole host of different movements. Movements like twists, repeated jumps, squats, lunges, etc. Our shoes are designed to help you perform these movements without risking an injury. Wearing suitable shoes reduces the risk of injury by 20% when compared with people who wear running shoes.
DROP: height difference between the front and back of your foot
All of our fitness shoes have a 4 mm drop. The feeling you get with this 4 mm drop is closer to that of your natural foot position (barefoot = no drop).
Multi-directional flexibility
The multi-directional flexibility refers to how well a shoe flexes and twists to support direction changes.
Studies have shown that we need 1.7 times more flex and extension during fitness activities than during running. The ankle's movement also varies depending on the kind of fitness or running you do. That's why we've created multi-directional shoes specifically for fitness.
Forefoot support
Why is it important? Good forefoot support - a must for fitness - helps you stay balanced when you go to change direction.
Forefoot cushioning
The cushioning is the ability of the shoe to cushion impacts and dampen vibrations.
The main point of impact between the foot and the floor during fitness activities is at the forefoot, whereas for running the impact is at the heel. We design our shoes with excellent cushioning at the forefoot to protect your body from repeated impacts while also stabilising your supporting leg to help you string movements together more smoothly.
Grip and rotation
The grip on this model lets you change direction quickly and easily, while the pivot zone has less grip so you can turn and spin easily without putting pressure on your joints.
Finding a balance between these two needs is therefore essential. A combination of sensory, mechanical and biomechanical tests has allowed us to determine the right level of grip and which part of your foot is in contact with the floor as you pivot.
How do we prove it? Product tests
In our labs, our researchers analyse movements using sensors that precisely measure the responses of the human body. But because there's nothing like trying things out in real life, we also test all of our fitness products in the gyms where they will actually be used.
These tests allow us to offer high-tech products to everyone at great prices, with the sole objective of helping you enjoy your sport in the best possible conditions.
The bonus is no marks on the floor.
Our sole has been designed to leave no marks on the floor.
Can you run on a treadmill wearing fitness shoes?
Our fitness shoes were specially designed for cardio fitness activities. They can also be used for limited treadmill running.
If you want to warm up/cool down before/after a session on a treadmill, these shoes are just what you need. However if your sole exercise is running on a treadmill or outdoors, for safety reasons it is highly recommended that you wear shoes designed for running.
Are fitness shoes for indoor use only?
Cardio fitness is mainly done in gyms and/or at home. Our shoes have been designed for indoor use. The rubber is specially suited for indoor use as it is softer. Wearing these shoes outdoors on tarmac will cause premature wear to the rubber. The grip of our soles is tested based on the floors used in gyms or in your home, and rubber is designed to be more grippy when used in these places.
Ultra-cushioning thanks to the new MFOAM
Comfort and cushioning are always essential features of fitness shoes.
The new MFOAM from Decathlon answers your every need. Both flexible and soft, it's without a doubt the most high-quality EVA available.
