Men and women's gymnastics shoes vary depending on the event. They provide support and protection for the feet, but must also be aesthetically pleasing to make the gymnast's feet appear graceful. Gymnasts are free to choose whether to wear shoes or go barefoot when performing their routines. Some gymnasts feel that shoes puts a barrier between them and the beam. Gymnasts who wear shoes typically have different types for each event in which they compete.
Beam Shoes
Beam shoes must be lightweight and provide traction so the gymnast does not slip off the balance beam. Beam shoes are available in stretch nylon with rubber soles for gripping and leather-soled styles. Leather shoes can be moistened with a wet towel to provide more slide.
Trampoline Shoes
While the trampoline is not a competitive event in gymnastics, it is used in training. Trampoline shoes have a snug fit and a triangular elastic throat for stretch. The sole is padded and the bottom of the shoe is rubber for traction, either on the trampoline or for vaulting off the trampoline. Trampoline shoes are flexible and come in leather, fabric or canvas.
Apparatus Shoes
Apparatus shoes are for gymnastics events where the feet only meet a surface during dismounts, such as the parallel bars. Apparatus shoes are very light and attractive on the feet. They have thin leather or stretch nylon soles to provide extra grab on dismounts. Slipping during a dismount drops the gymnast's score, so a sole with good traction is important. The rubber also helps the gymnast recover if sliding does occur during a dismount.
Vault Shoes
Vault shoes are used to absorb the shock of landings. Gymnasts take off from the springboard, perform a series of rotations and vault over the horse, then end with a controlled landing. The sole is heavily padded for shock absorption on the landing. They are typically made of soft leather.
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