Zumba is a fitness program that helps improve your endurance and overall health. It is a fun way to get your body moving to break out some sweat. But did you know that the shoes you wear when dancing Zumba can affect your performance? You'll need the right pair of shoes to reduce the risk of injuries!
We made choosing easier through our buying guide, fact-checked by fitness coach Michelle Estuar, which lists the considerations that you should look into before buying a pair of dance sneakers. Also, we have included a list of the best shoes you can buy online to save some time so you can focus on your Zumba experience.
Quick List - Top Zumba Shoes
Michelle Estuar is the Head Coach of one of the indoor cycling studios in Metro Manila. She trains individuals interested in becoming cycling coaches. She also designs and develops programs to meet fitness goals. To add to that, she is a former triathlete, running coach, and ultra-marathoner, and has completed long-distance events such as a 102km run and a 10km open water swim. Michelle is addicted to anything related to sports and fitness as well as diet and nutrition. She has tried (and will keep on trying) the latest trends in diets, apps, equipment, gears, and accessories—she will do anything to stay fit and healthy.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Zumba routines are often composed of twists and turns. That said, you will need the right pair of shoes that will let you move without difficulty while reducing the risk of injuries. Although running shoes are perfect for workout activities, it does not work well with Zumba as it limits the motion of the feet, especially when performing lateral movements.
Zumba shoes are specifically engineered to accommodate a series of bends, twists, and turns while dancing. The split-sole, heel counter, good grip, and spin spot are just some of the features that allow the feet to move in every direction. These attributes will also help you move fast and easy without damaging muscles, tissues, and joints of the leg, especially on your foot,
Here are some key points to consider:
Depending on your level, Zumba could be an intense exercise that may result in heavy sweating. That said, you want a pair of shoes that are lightweight and well-aerated. Find a pair that will allow the air to enter to avoid sweaty feet while on the groove. Shoes made of mesh uppers usually facilitate this feature.
Shoes with split soles promote flexibility. The space in the middle of each shoe creates an arch that allows you to move more flexibly. Since the sole for the ball of the feet and the heel are separate, it allows the foot to curve and point to its maximum potential. This feature is something that regular shoes cannot facilitate due to their full soles.
Although Zumba is a type of dance class, it is not as complex nor as intense as the other dances. It is a routine intended for the general population, with the goal of improving overall fitness and health. Zumba has attracted millions of followers all over the world. In the Philippines, people look forward to the sweat and camaraderie within their Zumba communities.
In this case, dance shoes with split soles are not highly recommended. It takes a lot of leg strength to be able to control the freedom of movement these shoes allow. However, if you want to take it to the next level, or you simply want to work on your dance skills, then the split-type soles are highly recommended.
Heel counter promotes steadiness when dancing. The higher and stiffer the heel counter, the better stability it can produce. This feature also prevents injury by providing enough space to allow the natural tension from the Achilles.
The heel counter is the most important feature of a shoe. It provides rear-foot stability, and lengthens the life of a shoe.
When it comes to Zumba, grip means the right amount of hold that will not make your shoes stick too much to the ground, nor too smooth that you might slip off. This feature is important since Zumba requires you to be agile - anything beyond the proper amount of grip may result in injury, especially when dancing to a fast rhythm.
In the Philippines, most Zumba activities take place outdoors. That is why having thick-soled shoes that can withstand the roughness of an outdoor environment is important.
Zumba routines involve some twists and turns. And, a sudden twist and turn may cause injury when the body spins while the feet remain on the ground. A spin-spot is a distinct feature of dance shoes that helps avoid this kind of accident. It allows you to turn and spin swiftly without impeding the shoes' grip when moving in a different direction.
The shock-absorbing sole feature of shoes is as important as other features. It functions as the main receivers of force that will reduce impact absorbed by the joints and soft tissues in the body. Remember, the thicker the shock-absorption soles, the more protected your heels are.
Opt for a pair of shoes that fits perfectly on your feet. To get the right size, it would be best to fit the shoe in-store, or when buying online, double-check the sizing chart of each brand. Shoes that fit properly will allow you to move freely and comfortably. Also, find a pair of shoes that do not rub too much on your skin. At the same time. it shouldn't be too loose that it may fly away any moment.
Shoes with an adjustable Velcro strap or lacing system will allow you to modify the fitting depending on how wide or narrow your feet are. After all, you do not want any inconvenience while dancing.
It is equally important to pick a pair of shoes with a design that you like, whether it be minimal or something with bold colors. Take note, though, that when choosing a design, you should still first consider one that matches your level or dancing skills.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Adidas Ultraboost 20 | ![]() | Lightweight and Provides the Right Cushioning | |
2 | Zumba Air Stud | ![]() | Pivot Comfortably With This Pair of Stylish Zumba Shoes | |
3 | Nike Tanjun | ![]() | Simple, Comfortable, and Can be Paired With Any Workout Outfit | |
4 | Reebok Flexagon Force 2.0 | ![]() | Promotes Good Balance While Dancing | |
5 | Zumba Air Funk | ![]() | Gives Your Ankle the Right Amount of Protection | |
6 | Skechers FLEX APPEAL 3.0 | ![]() | Gives You a Youthful Vibe While Protecting Your Ankles | |
7 | Adidas ENERGYFALCON SHOES | ![]() | Support Your Achilles Heel With These Stylish Shoes | |
8 | Reebok Freestyle Motion Studio Shoes | ![]() | Pivoting Shoes in a Classic Style | |
9 | Puma Jaab XT | ![]() | Comfortable Shoes With an Adjustable Fit | |
10 | Adidas EDGE LUX 4 | ![]() | Avoid Sweaty Feet With These Shoes’ Great Ventilation Feature |
These high-performance shoes are made with highly responsive cushioning that will absorb the force from the ground, reducing the energy that your feet receive. Due to this, you can avoid muscle pain and injuries while dancing. The technology is remarkably heavy-duty yet light-weight.
The product is made with a Primeknit textile upper that promotes a sock-like fit. This feature can effectively support the feet while keeping them properly ventilated. Since the upper is a solid one whole piece, you do not have to worry about parts falling off when the shoe is worn out.
This product also showcases its cause of protecting the ocean since the knitted upper is made from Parley Ocean Plastics which are upcycled plastic waste collected from the ocean shore. If you are a Zumba enthusiast and an environmentalist on the side this is the perfect pair for you.
With its Retro style uppers that come in different colors, pivoting will always be fun. The sole has a Z-slide feature that allows you to pivot at any surface effortlessly. Its high-top cut can effectively protect the ankle by providing enough support. These characteristics can reduce the chance of having muscle pain and tension.
With its air technology, stomping or jumping will not be a problem since it promotes maximum impact protection. Moreover, its Comprehensive Midsole EVA feature can effectively resist compression for a more responsive cushioning.
The Japanese word "Tanjun" means "simplicity" in English. This pair of shoes is exactly that. It is simple yet powerful. Even though it has a modern look, it still promotes comfortability and flexibility. For an affordable price, it comes with a sliding pad and heel cushion that makes it a great alternative to Zumba shoes.
Apart from that, the synthetic leather and mesh uppers attributes make the shoes breathable without impeding the shoes' ability to promote balance and support. Its spinnable non-marking rubber pivot point works well in an indoor environment with smooth flooring.
If you are someone who loves to walk or jog outdoor and a Zumba dancer on the side, this pair of shoes is for you. On your lazy days, where you do not want to go outdoor for exercise, you can still put these shoes on to do your Zumba routine at home.
These lightweight and breathable shoes can help you balance yourself while dancing. Its midsole feature provides an optimal balance of cushioning and response. Also, the memory foam sock liner helps stabilize the feet, reducing the impact from jumping.
On the contrary, some reviews state that the memory foam feature that this shoe highlights can still be improved. While others assert that apart from its training and dancing functions, this shoe is also great for everyday use. Nonetheless, with its price and comfortability, this is still something you can consider.
Style up your moves with these mid-top designed shoes that come with sole Air Technology for maximum impact protection. It has a soft cushioning foam sole that helps reduce impact from the ground when dancing. With its Z-Slide feature, you can pivot on any type of surface without inconvenience.
This shoe is also made with a lightweight mesh upper that promotes additional flexibility in every move. With the wide range of color variations, you can easily pair this shoe with any workout outfit. You can choose from vibrant colors like green, blue, red, or a black one with a smile graphic on both sides—your call.
If you are an adult who engages in Zumba, this pair of shoes with floral embroideries will make you feel young at heart again. Apart from its adorable appearance, it is also beneficial as dance shoes. Its padded collar and tongue promote good ankle support.
Besides that, its Air Cooled Memory Foam cushion promotes comfort and reduces the impact from the ground when you stomp or jump. With the shoes wide size range, it is perfect for youthful-at-heart adults as well as for kids who engage in Zumba.
Are you having a hard time dancing because of the tension in your Achilles tendon? Worry no more, because this pair of shoes will help you with that problem! With its molded heel design, your Achilles tendon will have the chance to move freely and lightly, reducing the risk of tension and muscle pain.
Apart from that, its mild foot support panel provides a natural fit—not too tight nor too loose and appropriate for any type of feet. Whether you have a narrow or wide one, that will not be a problem. While its durable Adiwear outsole is reasonably heavy-duty that can stand intense motion and movements.
You can guarantee its quality with a verified review that testified how reliable this product is, considering its affordable price. This shoe is perfect for those who want to enjoy Zumba to its full potential without worrying about aching tendons and muscles.
Dig deeper with this pair of pivoting shoes which comes in a classic contemporary design - truly one you can use for years to come! It is made with textile and synthetic upper that provides a sock-like fit.
This product also highlights its pivot point on the outer rubber sole that allows feet to move freely in a studio type flooring. Although it was not specified in the official product description, countless reviews claim that these shoes are lightweight and comfortable.
This shoe made from woven webbing upper is a great alternative to Zumba shoes. Its dynamic lacing structure provides an adjustable fit that you can customize depending on your foot size. This product highlights its sole feature such as PROFOAM lightweight midsole for instant cushioning.
Apart from that, the Hybrid drop-in sole feature provides additional motion support with every step. This shoe is best for Zumba dancers who have weak feet issues and even for those with strong foundations yet still looking for additional movement support while dancing.
In a country with a warm climate, sweaty feet are not uncommon. But worry not, as these shoes will keep your feet smelling fresh despite an intense Zumba session. This shoe is made with a stretchable knit upper with tiny holes for free-flowing air even when moving.
Built-in vents in the mid and outer sole facilitate 360 degrees ventilation. These vents help reduce the humidity and temperature by moving heat and foot perspiration away from the shoe interiors.
Made from at least 50% recycled materials, this product is made with a series of high-performance recycled materials like Primegreen. This is best for Zumba dancers who are concerned about the environment and their sweaty feet at the same time.
Since you have found the best pair of shoes for you, it is time to provide your feet with the best before and aftercare regimen for a better Zumba experience. You can check these products for more information.
Author: E. Hubilla
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Adidas|Ultraboost 20
No. 2: Zumba|Air Stud
No. 3: Nike|Tanjun
No. 4: Reebok|Flexagon Force 2.0
No. 5: Zumba|Air Funk
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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