A degree of ankle support is built into every cross-trainer, because a cross-trainer must stabilize the foot and ankle for a variety of activities that often require quick stops and starts and lateral movement. An aerobics class or volleyball game, for example, demand such movements. So all Avia cross-trainers will have such support. As for the best Avia cross-trainers, one model, the Avia A1433 for women, stands out above the rest.
Cross-Trainers
Cross-trainers are the most versatile of athletic shoes. You can wear them to your aerobics class, take a long walk or casual jog in the park, go for a bike ride, and play in your softball league in the same pair of shoes. The versatility of cross-trainers translates into economy as well, because you only have to buy one pair of shoes for multiple activities. On the minus side, cross-trainers are not designed for regular runners because cross-trainers are significantly heavier than running shoes.
Avia A1433
Fitness Magazine selected the Avia A1433 in May 2010 as the best cross-training shoe in the business for women. Its expert reviewers praised the extra conditioning in the heel and the side-to-side stability, which protects the foot and the ankle. One reviewer, who put the Avia A1433 through a vigorous test, said, "These provide great support -- I taught a circuit class and ran 2 miles in them without pain or blisters."
Men
Although the Avia1433 for men doesn't rate as high as the women's model in terms of independent rankings, it has all the same stability features for your feet and ankles. Another option for men is the Avia 1399 model, which draws rave reviews from users on Buzzillions and sells for around $30, as of February 2011.
Additional Ankle Support
If you have weak ankles or a history of ankle injuries, try an ankle support. The Active Ankle Cross-Training Ankle Support can be worn with any brand of cross-trainer. It offers extra ankle support by way of supports on each side of your ankle. The Active Ankle brand has a neoprene padding system with a patented hinge to give you maximum flexibility. It also has a double strap for reliable protection.
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