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NOBULL High-Top Trainer
From Amazon
SuperFabric guard plates, flexible mesh base layer, multi-environment outsole lug pattern.
Think of these as classic Chucks, but juiced up on steroids just like your favorite all-natty Instagram trainer. High-carbon lateral and medial guards add protection on the sidewalls. With just the right blend of flexibility, padding, traction, and support, you'll be wearing these for more than squats. Like doing ninja stuff. They look like they'd be great for ninja stuff.
– Chris Shugart
Inov-8 F-LITE 260 Knit Cross Trainer
From Amazon
Light and flexible design, ROPE-TEC technology, welded toe bumper.
Sometimes you want a flexible, versatile shoe that does anything you want it to do. You know, like your side piece. This shoe is clearly aimed at CrossFitters, but if you like to do a little running, rope climbing, and box jumping to balance out your heavy lifting, this shoe can handle it.
– Chris Shugart
Oboz Bridger Hiking Shoe
From Amazon
Waterproof, TPU chassis for stability, molded heal counter, generous toe box.
I prefer to get my cardio in the mountains... and I prefer to not fall down those mountains while screaming like a little bitch. After a few precarious slips while hiking around in gym shoes, I decided to invest in a pair of real hikers. These shoes have a grippy lug outsole that digs deep on the inclines and defeats scree on the declines. You can slosh through puddles and step on the sharpest of rocks without ever feeling a thing. They're tough too. If I'm ever eaten by a bear, at least they'll be able to identify my remains by my perfectly intact feet. That's a thing, right?
– Chris Shugart
Merrell Vapor Glove 4 Sneaker
From Amazon
Hyperlock TPU film heel counter for security, breathable mesh lining, integrated insole
Your feet and ankles have over 100 muscles. And they don't get much work in over-built gym shoes. This can create problems all the way up the chain, even leading to hip issues and back pain. Barefoot training can help you strengthen those underused muscles and re-educate the nervous system. Problem is, you have nasty feet. Really, everyone says so. And no one wants to see them at your gym. So what you need is a shoe with minimalist construction that gets you as close to the ground as possible. These zero-drop Merrells may be just what you're looking for. They're also certified vegan. So I guess you can eat them without guilt or whatever.
– Chris Shugart
Merrell Icepack Polar
From Amazon
Waterproof upper, insulated with fleece lining, outsole made for icy conditions.
You know how the T Nation coaches are always recommending that you take long walks to boost your NEPA and speed recovery? Great advice, but it gets tricky in the winter. Your gym shoes aren't going to cut it. It's time to invest in a shoe built for ice and snow. This one is waterproof and insulated. And it has the "M Select ICE" outsole, meaning you're less likely to bust your big ass on a slick spot. Now bundle up and hit the road, because beach bodies are made in the winter.
– Chris Shugart
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