Training shoes or trainers are shoes used for active outdoor activities such as running. Trainers have been around for about 100 years or so. The earliest trainers were reportedly made at around the 18th century, when people started to develop interest in running. During the 19th century the all-leather spiked shoe came out for the need for shoes that can grip the ground and give good traction while running. It was during the 1800s when manufacturers started to attach rubber soles to shoes. Croquet players during this time were using rubber-soled shoes with canvas uppers. Because the rubber reduced the noise the feet made when walking, the shoes ultimately became known as sneakers.

From the mid to late 1800s, spiked shoes for running became increasingly popular. The modern sneaker was soon introduced to the US in 1917, the same year that a higher boot shoes for basketball players were introduced by Converse. The real training shoes did not come out until Adolf Dassler, known as the father of the modern running shoes, introduced new designs and materials. Great runners such as Jesse Owens wore his shoes, which he began to make in the 1920s. Dassler designed his trainers using surplus canvas and rubber salvaged from fuel tanks. It was Adolf Dassler who founded Addidas, which was later split to form Addas, renamed to Addidas, and Puma.

Choosing training shoes

With so many choices, it can be hard to find the right pair of trainers. You need to know what you are going to be using your trainers for. Trainers can be light or heavy, and are constructed for light to moderate physical activity. They are designed to support your feet when running, preventing knee injuries that usually come from the constant pounding on hard surfaces like pavement when you jog. Heavy trainers are larger and can be used for long-distance running, suitable for serious runners or those planning to join a marathon. Light trainers offer a middle ground between those who want the support of heavy trainers but the weight of light trainers, which is important for those who want more speed when running.

Where to buy training shoes

For a good fit and to get the right trainer shoes, avoid general stores and head for the specialty sportswear stores where the staff is trained in helping you pick out which shoe will fit your type of activity and the needs of your feet.