You may hear that running on a treadmill is boring. But that's wrong! You can do easy runs, long runs, short sprints, hill intervals, walking, and much more. It's up to you what type of run you're planning. Plus, the conditions are much easier than running outdoors - no surface changes, no pedestrians and you don't have to worry about it being cloudy or bitterly hot outside, so there's no need to worry about choosing seasonal running clothes. You just run! All you need are running shoes.
How to choose treadmill running shoes?
Right shoes are the basis for a healthy and enjoyable run. And this is also true when running on a treadmill, even though it may not seem so at the first. A big role is played by:
- Outsole - The treadmill surface is flat and predictable, so a quality rubber outsole with a slight pattern will give you great traction. Trail shoes with an aggressive pattern or athletic spikes are undesirable for treadmill running.
- Level of cushioning - Even though a treadmill is softer than concrete or asphalt, shoes should have cushioning layers to reduce impact and excessive stress on joints, ligaments, and tendons. Cushioning is especially important for overweight people.
- Breathable upper - Treadmills are often placed inside a gym or building where air circulation is not as great as when running outdoors. A lightweight mesh upper gives you an optimal climate inside the shoe, even during intense training.
And what does this all mean? That your best friend for training on the treadmill will be road shoes. We have 5 tips on what shoes to wear on the treadmill!
1) Nike Pegasus
The workhorse with wings from Nike is very popular and we totally understand. There is a road version and also a trail version. For training on the treadmill, choose a road version such as the Pegasus 39. It's a flexible and extremely comfortable shoe, and you'll use it for other gym activities too. Nike React technology provides great cushioning and combined with the Zoom Air unit in the forefoot and heel, it ensures an energetic step. Time to take off - even on the treadmill!
2) adidas Ultraboost
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, with the adidas Ultraboost 22 you enjoy treadmill easy runs, recovery runs, long runs, and also walking. The BOOST midsole takes care of energy return and the Linear Energy Push system adds more dynamism to your movement. The adidas Primeknit upper has a layer of foam around the heel to help prevent blisters. Just beware that the adidas models have a narrower construction, which may not suit you if you have a wider foot shape.
3) Asics Superblast
Even treadmill runs need to be variable - sometimes long endurance training, another day fast sprints. Get the most out of every workout with the Asics Superblast - a functional buddy for every type of training. A new member of the BLAST family boasts two technologies in the midsole - FF BLAST™ PLUS and FF BLAST™ TURBO. These cushion impacts and provide responsive rebound response. The durable AHARPLUS™ outsole is trampoline-inspired for a better transition from impact to rebound. A versatile shoe that will take your performance on the treadmill to the next level!
4) On Cloud X
On models have a wider platform that provides even better stability, support, and safety. They are suitable for athletes with wider feet and for those who prefer more space in the toe area. The third series, the On Cloud X 3, is ideal for any activity - from (treadmill) running and gym workouts to HIIT or jumping rope. It offers great cushioning, optimal traction, and explosiveness with every step. Enjoy running on the treadmill like on a cloud!
5) Nike Zoom Fly
Do you plan to run mainly tempo runs, sprints, and intervals on the treadmill? Then wear the Nike Zoom Fly shoe, specifically the Nike Air Zoom Rival Fly 3. The soft React foam combined with the Zoom Air unit will give you a nimble and comfortable feeling at high speeds. Push your limits, whether you're running on the road or on the treadmill!