Step aerobics classes may be less high-impact than standard dance aerobic classes, but they still place demands on your muscles, joints and bones. The repetitive movements of stepping up and down, coupled with traveling moves that have you crossing the floor or leaping over the step, demand something beyond basic running shoes.
Fit
Even the best pair of step shoes will not work for you if the fit is wrong. Try on step aerobics shoes in the afternoon, when your feet have swelled slightly from the day's activities. Wear the same type of socks that you intend to wear during your workout. Try different moves in the store to see how the shoe feels during turns, stops, jumps, lateral movements and stepping.
Support
Super lightweight athletic shoes do not offer enough support for a step aerobics class. Strike the balance between shoes that do not feel clunky and shoes that have enough padding to absorb shock. Steppers should look for extra support around the ball of your foot and the heel. A slightly higher rise on the shoe helps support your ankles, but do not choose a style that covers the Achilles tendon. High-tip shoes affect your mobility too much during a step class.
Sole
Look for two key elements in regard to the soles of step shoes. The first is flexibility. You want a sole that bends slightly but that does not give easily. Most shoes for dancing or racing have soles that are too thin, which do not provide the stability you need for landing on the step and the floor. The next issue is the sole's tread. Avoid slick-bottomed shoes that will not grip the step or the gym floor well, especially during sliding and traveling moves. You want a tread that lightly grips surfaces, because too much tread will inhibit your stepping.
Wear Patterns
The best pair of step shoes for one person will not work for another person. Examine a pair of your old step workout shoes to assess the way you wear out shoes. If the cushioning is flat in only one part of the shoe, you should find shoes that offer extra support for that area. Look carefully at the heel box of the shoe, because the heel receives intense pressure during step workouts. Some step shoes have wider or thicker heels to compensate for the additional shock.
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