Amongst various types of aerobic exercises, step aerobics is the most fast paced type of exercise. As the name suggests, it is performed on an elevated platform, which is where the name step aerobics comes from. Step aerobic exercises are beneficial for maintaining health of muscles, bones and joints. This exercise routine is excellent for improving your cardiovascular health as well. However, since step aerobic exercises are fast paced, they also involve strong foot movements, which can badly hamper your feet and legs. Most of the people who are new to step aerobics, tend to choose their regular sneakers for step aerobics, which could prove to be a grave mistake. There are special types of step aerobic shoes that you need to choose for added safety of your feet. Choosing the Best Shoes As I was saying, many people choose to wear their best athletic shoes for step aerobics. If you are one of such people then let me tell you that wearing running shoes is fine if you do step aerobics on rare occasions; like once or twice a month. But if you indulge in this exercise everyday, then it is always better to choose a pair of good shoes for aerobics that is specifically designed for step aerobics. Understand the fact that step aerobics is a high intensity yet low impact exercise routine, and hence you need to refrain from wearing boots, dress shoes and all the other types of shoes while performing this exercise. Shoes for step aerobics are not that hard to find, in fact, you may find a good pair of step aerobic shoes in any nearby store that provides athletic footwear. You need to determine your correct foot size and also any special foot conditions like high arches, low arches, wide feet or flat feet, that you may be suffering from. In case you are suffering from any of these conditions, then you need to find for the shoes that are designed for the same. While trying shoes for step aerobics, always make sure that you are trying them on by wearing the same type of socks that you wear for your step aerobic routine. Along with the fitting, also make sure that the shoes that you choose are lightweight and have good shock absorption properties. The sole of the shoes should be flexible and have a gripping tread. Also make sure that the shoes are made using breathable materials and have comfortable cushioning. You may choose shoes with thick heels, that offer better shock absorption. In case,you are finding it hard to find the best shoes for step aerobics in your local stores, then you might think of choosing cross trainers or court shoes. But always remember that they are the last option and hence, consult with your physical trainer or class instructor before choosing such shoes. Well, here are some of the popular types of step aerobics shoes that you may find in your local footwear stores. Ryka Intensity XT3 Shoes Ryka Intensity XT3 Shoes are basically designed for cross training. However, these shoes are extremely lightweight and they come with removable sock lining for extra shock absorption. If you don't want the additional cushioning that the sock lining offers, then you can simply remove it. You can also try Ryka Transition or Ryka Rhythm II in the same regards. The average price of Ryka Cross trainers is around USD 60. New Balance WX871 Shoes New Balance WX871 Shoes are specially designed for aerobics and step aerobics. These shoes are relatively lightweight and they also provide good shock absorption, with extra cushioning in the heel region of the shoes. Along with step aerobics, you can use these shoes as regular sneakers as they are designed to be used for indoor and outdoor use. The average cost of these shoes is around USD 90. Saucony Women's Twister Shoes Saucony Women's Twister Shoes are designed for all types of aerobic exercises and hence they are ideal for step aerobics as well. These shoes are made of lightweight material and injection molded trademark EVA midsole which is excellent for added cushioning. The thick heel region of these shoes is ideal for stability and extra grip during step aerobics. These shoes are made of breathable materials that keeps your feet dry. The average cost of these shoes is around USD 65. Apart from the shoes that I have mentioned above, you can also try brands like Reebok Tempo Flex, Avia Avi-Motion iburn Leather Shoes, Skechers Women's Energy 2, etc. Well, that's it as far as the best step aerobic shoes are concerned. As I said earlier, always consult a knowledgeable instructor before you purchase the best shoes for step aerobics. Good luck!