Style is most important, right?  NO.

Ok, then color must be most important, right?  NO!

Oh, it must be the brand.  A swoosh or LeBron.  NO!!

The shoes you wear are important because they support, stabilize, and protect you.  If you injure your feet, you probably won’t be able to exercise.  And if your goal depends on this, then you just sabotaged yourself.

Think of wearing the green-stained shoes that you mow the grass in to the gym, the same way as if you were playing tennis with a wooden racket or batting in the MLB with an aluminum bat.  Could you do it?  Yes.  Is it the best choice?  No.  Will you do well?  No!  Set records?  No!!

And would you believe that I've seen men wearing open-toed sandals in the weight room?  That is soooo dangerous.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right shoes:
1.  Determine your foot type (see image below).  If you are unsure of which best represents you, take your shoes with you when you buy new ones.  The salesperson can help you.
If you over-pronate, you most probably have a low arch and your foot rolls inward from heel to toe.  Try a stability or motion-control shoe for better support.
If you under-pronate (or supinate), you most probably have a high arch and your foot rolls outward.  Try a highly cushioned shoe with single-density midsoles.

2.  Don’t bargain shop.  Go to a store that specializes in athletic footwear and is staffed by knowledgeable employees.
3.  Bring a pair of the socks you would normally wear, try on both shoes, stand, and then check for proper sizing.  You should have a thumb width’s room at the toe.
4.  Walk and/or jog around the store.
5.  If your feet are different sizes, pick the size for the larger foot and buy an insole for the other if necessary.

Invest in yourself by buying the proper shoes to fit you!