It's almost a given that not all cardio is created equal. People — whether they consistently go to the gym or not — find workouts they love and gravitate toward them because not only does the exercise get their heart pumping, but it brings them joy, stress relief, and even new friendships.
Zumba [1], the cardio workout that incorporates dance moves into its full-body workout, can help burn more than 500 calories [2] in an hour. It can also lift your mood, and the workout incorporates some of the most badass playlists [3] to make you feel like you can take on the world after you leave a class.
So what are the best sneakers around that can optimize your booty-shaking and side-stepping? We scoped them out.
Bloch Red Traverse Dance Sneaker
Stay on your toes in Bloch's Red Traverse Dance sneaker [4] ($30), which provides your feet with range of motion while offering protection with a grippy sole.
RYKA Women's Exertion Shoe
Available in a variety of colors and price points, the RYKA Women's Exertion Shoe [5] ($40 to $75) is lightweight and has a pivot point on the sole.
Capezio Women's DS24 Rockit Dance Sneaker
The Capezio Women's DS24 Rockit Dance Sneaker [6] ($59-$65) has a synthetic sole and padded Achilles notch for added comfort.
Zumba Women's Fly Fusion Athletic Dance Workout Sneakers
Made with compression cushioning, the Zumba Women's Fly Fusion Athletic Dance Workout Sneakers [7] ($30) comes with Z-Slide to allow you to slide easily on any surface. It's also lightweight and provides support.
Reebok Hayasu
Reebok Hayasu [8] ($50) has a seamless neoprene bootie upper to promote irritation-free, sock-like comfort while a fixed OrthoLite footbed offers high-stepping cushioning.
F2 Puma
The injected EVA outsole delivers performance-inspired comfort and elevated cushioning, while the mesh material of the F2 Puma [9] ($35) allows for a sporty yet feminine look.
Nike Flex Trainer
The Nike Flex Trainer 5 [10] ($55 and up) has a mesh upper that provides lightweight breathability, and a traction pattern allows for flexible grip in every direction.
New Balance WX711v2
Breathable mesh and synthetic upper with TPU reinforcement make these New Balances WX711v2 [10] ($56) a great choice to rock your body with. Cush+ technology, forefoot flex grooves, and a heel pillow are also added benefits.
Zumba Women's Flex II
The Zumba Women's Flex II [11] ($30 and up) has Z-Flex technology to provide maximum flexibility and leather overlays on the toe and heel to protect stress points on impact.
PUMA Women's Anaida Lace Metallic Slip-On Dance Sneaker
A dance-inspired fitness shoe in mesh, the PUMA Women's Anaida [12] ($30 and up) lace metallic slip-on dance sneaker also comes in four bright color combinations.