Okay, like the subject says - I am in DIRE need of new shoes. But I have a dilemma - I do as much cardio as I do strength (circuit full body workouts or 3-way strength workouts). I only recently started doing more cardio though. And I walk.

I've been using the same running shoes for all the activites for the past 3 years and I can tell it's time to get new shoes but what shoes do I get? Which ones can I use for all of these activites? should I stick with running shoes, or should I go for cross-training shoes? Any input will be much appreciated.

I use running shoes for everything except my outdoor workouts- I use trail runners for my outdoor workouts to get the extra traction.

Ditto... don't do trail running but walk and run outside/inside do classes all with the same running shoes...

I would go with running shoes...

The ones that I use for actual running I have to replace every 4 or 5 months or so based on my mileage (the cushioning wears out) than I use them for other things because they are perfectly good (just not for running anymore for me)

I have trail running shoes too... But for the most part I just stick with a well cushioned regular running shoe with maybe some added stability for the trails that I run on because I don't get to run many technical trails where a "true" trail shoe would make a noticeable difference...

Oh, and I never really understood "cross training" shoes... But I guess I'm biased because of my running background... But I just think that whatever your biomechanics that there is a "running" shoe that will meet your needs in the gym... but that's just me...

when i first got a pair of running shoes, i looked up info about the differences...to my understanding, cross-training shoes offer alot more support on the sides of feet for people who also train by doing sideways motions...for example, tennis, racquetball, basketball, volleyball, etc...rather than just the forwards motion used in running...and that running shoes offer more support for that forwards motion than perhaps cross trainers do...

That makes alot of sense. I've been doing aerobics in my running shoes and I've noticed that the side to side stuff is really breaking down my shoes.

Thanks for this... Makes sence.. Now I think I might have to get a pair because I've been thinking of maybe doing some aerobics at home for a change of pace...

I did try a pair of those shaper type toning sneakers a while back and those didn't work out so well for me, so I guess that's why I just stick with using and old pair of running shoes for the gym...