Zumba is an effective way to exercise and have some good times in the process. It’s an aerobic fitness workout program that combines dance moves with Latin and international music beats.
It was first invented in the 1990s by the Colombian dancer, choreographer, and cyclist named Alberto Perez. It involves multiple dance styles such as hip-hop, salsa, mambo, and samba alongside other moves of mixed martial arts. Thus far, you need to keep up with the super quick music beats if you want to augment your session.
Nowadays, Zumba is a regular offering in many exercise centers and you would be expected to have the best outfits to get the most out of such routines.
Zumba practices involve the movement of all body parts. You will jump, skip and execute other high-octane dreary movements that can wreak havoc on your fee. As such, you need to have a pair of Zumba shoes to wear to the studio.
The various issues addressed by dance exercise shoes include minimizing sprains, alleviating muscle pain, and general foot ache. This post will help if you’re searching for a reliable shoe that can minimize shock, and bear the non-slip repetitive abuse. We have reviewed the 10 best Nike shoes for Zumba in 2021 that podiatrists and market experts hold in high esteem.
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Here are The Best Nike Shoes For Zumba
Nike Women’s Free RN Flyknit 2018 Running Athletic
Flyknit shoes are super lightweight, coming at about 178g. Speaking of minimalist, shoes with mesh design are not only lightweight but also extremely comfortable to help you practice dance for long sessions.
The arch support design, cushioning on the front, and soft underfoot cushioning are meant to protect your feet and ankles during movements, absorbing shock while jumping. Moreover, the outsole is made with foam rubber on the heel to enhance both traction and durability.
Nike Free RN Flyknit is ideal for many activities; you can use it to walk, jog playing tennis, going to the gym, and obviously practicing Zumba. The shoe is available in diverse colors, in fact, you get to choose from 15 different shades for both men and women.
Nike Metcon 3 Men’s Training Shoes
You might want to consider the Nike Metcon 3 Men’s Training Shoes if you’re looking for the best shoes for Zumba. The overall product quality allows it to manage all demanding fitness like heavy lifting, sprints, climbs, and other flexible moves.
The top overlays are made from synthetic material, which is carefully meshed to ensure better breathability. The fabric makeup around the collar padding and high-density foam is designed for maximum comfort while shaking your body.
The Nike Metcon 3 Men’s Training Shoes is equipped with unique Flywire mid-foot technology that simply strands of high-tensile carbon that connects to the laces. It also helps to wrap the foot and secure it in position during exercise.
The technology employed here adds longevity to the shoe. Moreover, the shoe is available in more than 30 colors, meaning you won’t run out of options.
Nike Women Zoom Fit Cross-Trainer Shoe
If you prefer the vibrant neon colors, you can get your Nike Zoom Fit Cross-Trainer Shoe in bright but cute pink. Else, you can go in blue, black.
It is one of the best shoes for Zumba that comes with lightweight, breathable, mesh lining to keep you comfortable throughout the session. There’s also the synthetic rubber outsole that comes in handy to improve the durability of the shoe.
With that being said, you might want to order half the size of your normal shoes to keep your feet comfortable during performances.
Nike Women’s Musique IV Dance Shoes
The Nike Women’s Musique IV Dance Shoes are designed for gyms and studios with a style that ensures maximum comfort to dancers. The shoe is highly rated for flexibility and offers a lot of support for Zumba dancing.
The lightweight mesh and the upper synthetic leather will keep you breathing during exercise, so you don’t have to worry about sweaty or smelly feet at the end of the session. Furthermore, the heel and forefoot design is doubled to promote stability.
As for the soles, the midsole is adequately cushioned for extra comfort. The outsole is made with high traction rubber that’s durable too. Not to mention the medial forefoot pivot point that radiuses edge for a lateral transition.
The only gripe is that these shoes aren’t available in many sizes. You only get to choose from sizes 9.5 and 10. Apart from that, the Nike Women’s Musique IV Dance Shoes is certainly one of the best shoes for Zumba in the market.
Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 31 Running Shoe
The Air Zoom Pegasus 31 Running Shoe is yet another contender for the best Zumba shoes from Nike. One thing that makes this pair exceptional is the architecture. The shoe is designed to provide support to the foot while enhancing flexibility for multiple movements.
Several users reported that the sole is a little thinner compared to other brands. However, this will work well if you’re someone who likes the feeling of your underfoot having contact with the floor. This in turn adds more stability and control over your moves while doing Zumba.
You also experience superior arch support- great for those who are dealing with plantar fasciitis. The shoe also boasts a contoured footbed, a Nike zoom forefoot on the forefoot for a responsive feel. There’s also the waffle pattern on the outsole that ensures maximum traction and minimal midsole offset.
Buyers rave about this shoe and it definitely inspires die-hard loyalty. The shoe is very popular among Zumba enthusiasts due to the synthetic and mesh uppers that spot bright day logo colors. Moreover, it is a quality sneaker that can withstand Zumba workouts.
Nike Women’s Flyknit Zoom Agility Knit Colorblock Running Shoes
Much the same as the Nike Women’s Free RN Flyknit, the Flyknit Zoom Agility Knit Colorblock is a great choice for color lovers. True to its name, the Flyknit Zoom Agility Knit Colorblock is available in a range of up to 18 brilliant colors.
These shoes are not only meant for training purposes but also to deliver unique fashion styles. It will let you shine on the dance floor. It’s among the best shoes for Zumba that serve great for cross-training, cardio, strength, and core.
It comes with a lightweight upper mesh plus a soft backer for extra support and comfort. Indeed, the practitioner will feel extremely comfortable dancing for many hours.
Aside from being lightweight, durable, and comfortable, the Flyknit Zoom Agility Knit Colorblock also incorporates midsole cushioning alongside Air technology for adequate responsiveness. It also enhances specific flexibility. The built quality will protect your ankles, feet, and absorb shock during intensive training.
Additionally, the strategy of including rubber balls on the outsole and front foot comes in handy to create internal and external traction. This in turn makes it easy to move on surfaces without slipping.
Some users suggest buying these shoes half the size, larger than your regular shoes.
Women’s Nike Studio Trainer Print Shoes
The Women’s Nike Studio Trainer Print Shoes look both functional and fashionable. The shoe is available in four different colors to choose from. Made with synthetic and mesh, this product promises to be more flexible as per your foot movement.
Flexibility is on top, particularly during a Zumba class. Furthermore, it’s breathable, s you don’t have to worry about irritation or discomfort when you move around. Besides the mesh will make sure your feet stay cool and dry throughout, so no chafing occurs.
Lastly, the sole is made from rubber. Generally, rubber ensures that you can practice as freely as you wish and for all kinds of moves.
Out of 5 stars, the Women’s Nike Studio Trainer Print Shoes were rated at 4.2 on amazon. Users reported that 79% of the shoes fit as expected. Others reviewed that the pair is super comfortable, lightweight, and serves correctly for Zumba. However, some customers said that there was a narrow fit to them with little arch support.
Nike Flex Experience Run 4
Let’s face it, we all know that Zumba classes are usually full of people wearing clothes that come in vivid colors and shades. Well, you can match these colors with white shoes, but still, you might want to use footwear in vivid colors as well.
Although we’ve reviewed the men’s version of this model, the traits apply to the women’s model too. This pair is made with mesh that ensures ample airflow inside the shoe.
They also come with a rubber, anti-slip outsole that allows you to practice freely without risking injuries. The shoes are also lightweight so no fatigue. The generous cushioning is flexible, thanks to the soft IU midsole. Overall, the Nike Flex Experience Run 4 is one of the best lightweight shoes for Zumba.
Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker
Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker by Nike is one of the most popular footwear for fitness enthusiasts. The fact that this shoe is not designed specifically for cardio makes it ideal for dancers, thanks to the comfort level and ease of practice it offers.
Made to meet all fitness needs, the Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker is equipped with synthetic rubber outsoles in areas that are prone to wear, so durability is pretty much guaranteed. The midsole is durable as well, while the lightweight construction reduces weight greatly. Moreover, the outsole design incorporates an extended Tri-star structure to minimize pressure.
The lockout form, flexibility, and minimalist design come in handy when you need them most. The synthetic upper couples with a heel strap to improve support and containment. The shoe is also padded on the heel and forefoot. This helps to protect your feet even better. The shaft comes in carefully low-top from the arch. Not to forget the shoe is available in 11 color selections.
According to most previous buyers, the Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker is one of the best shoes for Zumba that responds to size. We suggest that you buy based on your Nike size. That’s if you normally wear size 10 for other shoes, consider size 10 for the Flex Trainer.
Nike Women’s Musique VI Sneakers
As the name suggests, the Nike Women’s Musique VI Sneakers are specially designed for music and dancing. Apparently, the Musique series is quite popular among Zumba lovers, which is probably why Nike is introducing new models almost every year.
This pair of Nike shoes are made from synthetic materials for max durability, yet it doesn’t fall short on flexibility. The manufacturer also understands that natural materials don’t always provide the same flexibility as synthetic materials, which is very important for those who are involved in intensive Zumba classes.
Another impressive feature of the Nike Women’s Musique VI Sneakers is that it has a neat classic design that will match any Zumba outfit. The shoes are available in white colors and spot the Nike logo in red shade.
Nike Women’s Sideline III Insert Training Shoe
For a classic-ly good looking Zumba sneaker, be sure to consider the Nike Women’s Sideline III. It’s among the best in the range. Actually, a cheerleading shoe, with convincing similarities between cheerleading and Zumba. That means the overall design’s really agreeable for Zumba workouts.
It has a medial pivot point on the outsole to help you execute your Zumba turns and grooves with great ease. There’s also flex grooves on the outsole that promotes natural movement, while the synthetic and mesh uppers ensure excellent support and durability.
For those dealing with foot pain or plantar fasciitis, the Nike Women’s Sideline III shoes will reassure you. They come with a lightweight Phylon midsole that offers superior cushioning for those who have these conditions.
Some users have reported that these shoes are often a tighter fit in general. That means you might want to get this pair half a size larger than you usually do.
Apart from that, this is a great choice for Zumba fanatics who want to introduce athleticism into their Zumba sessions. If you’re searching for superior quality, great value Nike dance sneakers, then you’ll be wise to check these out.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Nike Zumba Shoes
If you’ve been to a Zumba workout lately, then you understand why it’s important to have the best dance practice shoes. The best Zumba shoes should offer protection stability and keep you putting your best forward.
Thusly, you need to take some time to choose the best pair before you attend your first Zumba class. Below are the various things to consider when shopping for dance workout sneakers.
Traction
Not all gyms provide a mat or floor to step. Instead, you will be expected to work out on smoothly tiled surfaces. One misstep and you could slide and hit the floor, harming yourself.
The best Zumba shoes should offer a decent grip and traction so you don’t end up losing stability. Note, the term is “decent” not overboard. While dancing you might need to spin, turn, slide and glide while executing various moves. As such, a shoe with too much grip will be a downer.
Shock Absorption
As an energetic exercise, Zumba dance sometimes will force you to pound hard on the floor. Therefore, the shoes you choose should be effective in shock absorbency to minimize foot pain and other injuries.
How good a shoe is at engrossing shock can be attributed to the built material of the outsole and its thickness. Foam and rubber are not sufficient on their own. However, when combined, they deliver excellent shock absorbing abilities.
A quick reminder, however, is to consider the floors of the gym before making a purchase as this will help you pick the right outsole construction. Carpeted floorings work best with smooth soles while smooth/tiled, non-carpeted surfaces work fine with moderately treaded soles.
Heel counter
This is the part that gives support to the heel, which further advances stability. The heel counter is a significant element, especially for beginners since their heel hasn’t strengthened yet.
Breathability
You can compromise breathability in easygoing shoes that you don’t use often but not Zumba shoes. Zumba dancing involves a lot of movements and is thus bound to sweat. While you don’t want to develop awful odor at the end of the day, breathable shoes will allow you for proper ventilation, which combats dampness and overheating.
As you’ve already figured out, most shoes in this review feature a mesh design and synthetic overlays that channel out excessive heat and moisture. The shoes should remain dry to prolong your session at the workout station. Not to mention that breathability helps prevent foot infections.
Sole
Zumba dance shoes come in different sole design. Some of the common styles on the market include low, mid, and split. The split style is flexible, and usually don’t incorporate the midsole to improve the experience of the dancer. On the flip side, however, such Zumba shoes provide zero arch support.
The mid-assortment covers the lower leg, which means it provides proper support and stability. They are best for starters, albeit being not as flexible. As for the low sole type, it lies below the ankle and is associated with better flexibility and freedom compared to the other two. However, this sole type skimps on support and stability.
Style
Appearance may not be of much substance for Zumba classes, but everyone strives to look great, and so do you, right? Fortunately, most of the best shoes for Zumba boast awesome design worth showing off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to find out more about Zumba shoes? Here are some of the frequently asked questions that can help you make a more informed decision regarding dancing shoes.
Where to Purchase Nike Zumba Shoes?
Zumba shoes are accessible from any local store that sells sports sneakers. A better alternative is to purchase from online hubs like Amazon.
Are High-Quality Nike shoes Ideal for Zumba?
Usually no. No matter how impressive running shoes are, they’re mostly designed with profound treads meant of surging forwards. Zumba dance sneakers, on the other hand, require minimum treads to make it possible to spin and turn easily in all directions.
What type of Nike shoes are best for Zumba?
Any breathable shoe with medium treads and pivot point can virtually keep up with fast-paced Latin music. The shoe needs to be lightweight to facilitate fluid articulation.
How Long do Nike Zumba Shoes Last?
Well-made shoes for Zumba can last somewhere between six months to 1 ½ year max. They will serve considerably shorter time when used outside the gym. If you need to, walking in your running shoes instead.
Can you do Zumba Without Shoes?
No, you shouldn’t. This is a high-octane fitness routine that involves intensive moves and spins, not to mention the heavy pounding on the floor. Not wearing proper footwear can lead to a plethora of foot injuries.
Conclusion
Zumba is inarguably a high-impact practice that calls for max flexibility and agility. Only the best Zumba shoes can help you achieve that. contrary to running shoes, Zumba shoes feature a pivot point underneath them, and their outsoles spots minimal treads to enhance smooth movements. Other elements like heel counter and breathability will make the whole thing feel as comfortable as possible.
Avoid using running shoes on the dance floor. They will only restrict movements. Zumba shoes on the other hand will let you effortlessly shake your body while remaining firmly held on the ground. These shoes are available in different styles, colors, and price points. It’s easy to find one that matches your needs.
The bottom line is, when executing your Zumba moves, the last thing you would want is a shoe that’s causing you pain or giving you grief amid the session. You want a shoe that will fit well, provide excellent support, look fabulous and prevent pain.
That becomes even more crucial if you’re having any kind of foot condition, including heel pain, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. To sum-up, this review is a selection of the best Nike shoes for Zumba that will help get into the flow and Zumba away to your favorite heart’s content without however much you might want.