But if you really value sports and fitness, you can't afford to cheat on your feet. Doctors, trainers and athletes agree that good shoes are a must for optimum athletic performance and a healthy, happy body, from the neck to the toes.
Walking shoes are flexible, like running shoes, but a bit heavier.
If you don't take care of your feet and your shoes, you may join the 43 million Americans who suffer from painful foot conditions. It's a pretty significant problem. Cross-trainers are good if you are not a serious athlete. But if you're involved in a sport three or more times a week, you should get a sport-specific shoe, Andrews said. These shoes are designed to provide differing amounts of flexibility, stability, cushioning and motion control, depending on which sport is being played.