Sneakers are not only a very popular type of footwear all over the world, but also, according to experts, the best-selling one. People who are fond of sports usually have several pairs for different types of loads, but even those who are far from a healthy lifestyle appreciate the comfort and convenience of sneakers. In order to choose the right type of shoes that suits you best, it is useful to learn about what kind of sneakers there are in general.
A brief history of sneakers
The first footwear created specifically for sports appeared back in the 18th century! They were canvas shoes that vaguely resembled sneakers. True, then no one had thought to sew right and left shoes according to different patterns: they were the same. On the basis of canvas shoes, sneakers were later created, which are the official progenitor of sneakers. Modern sneakers, already almost the same as everyone knows them, appeared in the 30s-40s of the XX century. Their first type was tennis.
But the real revolution in sneaker history came when manufacturers realized the potential of this shoe not only for athletes, but for everyone else. Sneakers began to make stylish, spending a lot of time and effort on their design. This is what ultimately led sneakers to the popularity they have now.
Football Sneakers
They are also called boots. They are easy to distinguish by their special studs, designed for a more rigid grip on the pitch of the football field. The upper is always made of leather, it can be natural or artificial. Cleats are also divided into subspecies, designed for different types of surfaces on football fields, because lawns are soft, damp, ordinary, artificial, and sometimes football is played even on hard surfaces.
Basketball shoes
Basketball shoes are easily recognizable because they are the tallest. Since the athlete makes many jumps and lateral movements, the shoe must firmly fix the ankle to protect it from injury. Also, basketball shoes have a special cushioning sole (in the toe and heel areas) to protect the joints while jumping. The upper part of the sneaker is made of leather or mesh material.
Basketball shoes are among the heaviest. The weight of one pair can reach 3 kg!
Tennis shoes
The tennis shoe features ankle support and excellent grip on the court. They have a wide sole, the pattern on which depends on the type of flooring for which it is intended. Tennis shoes are cushioned in the forefoot, sometimes with nylon inserts to improve ventilation.
Running shoes
Running shoes are the lightest of all. The heel is usually stiff, but the toe is flexible. The running shoe is covered with a lightweight synthetic fabric upper. They are also divided into subtypes:
- sneakers for slow long runs.
- sneakers for high-speed sprint races.
One of the main requirements for a running shoe is excellent cushioning.
For manufacturers of quality running shoes, durability is a major concern. Various studies are being carried out to improve it.
Other types of sneakers
There is a special type of sneaker for almost every sport, but it would take a whole book to list them. The above are the main and most common types of sneakers. It can also be noted that various fitness sneakers, volleyball, for martial arts, handball and other disciplines are very popular.
A special niche is occupied by the so-called universal sneakers, not intended for a specific sport, but suitable for everyday wear.
