Puma Trinomics, available at ASOS
RheumasCloset fashion blogger Sasha Hunte tells us all about her favourite trainers - the comfy and the supercool!
As a fashion student, I know trends come and go. Thankfully, one of today’s biggest footwear trends – the lifestyle trainer – is here to stay. For me, it seems this horrid illness came at a rather appropriate time – as inappropriate as that sounds!
Before I started getting symptoms of painful joints in my fingers, wrists and more obviously the balls of my feet and my toes, I only owned one pair of trainers; the renowned Nike Free Run 5.0. Although I have now owned them for at least three years, and they were initially for the gym, I know that they will guarantee me an easy, comfortable day.
Once my diagnosis became more apparent, and flare-ups were uncontrollable without the administration of treatment, I knew it was time to invest in more trainers. My favourite trainer store is Size; from Adidas to Asics to Nike and Reebok you’re spoilt for choice. In my first summer with arthritis I bought some Asics Onitsuka Tigers (Shaw Runner design) and I’d encourage you to try them. They’re flexible and soft whilst having the stability you need for the sole of your foot. You could wear them for exercise and daily use. Aesthetically, they are one of my faves too.
If you are looking for more of a statement trainer, something that doesn’t shout ‘I love to exercise!’, then I’d look at Adidas and Puma. My Adidas ZX750s are, in my opinion, the coolest. An original sole design, and the toe box is very wide which is unusual for many trainers. Stability is probably at its height with these trainers, a thick material which with no doubt will last a long time.
My Puma Trinomics are my latest trainer; again, the sole is a novel design to me. I love its urban look and there are so many colours to choose from. They aren’t as tough as the Adidas ZX750s, which some of you might find more comfortable. Currently they are my go-to shoes for everyday wear.
I must point out, I don’t include or recommend Converse. They have zero stability and in my experience make my feet feel worse.
Also, I have never bought trainers online. I can’t stress enough how important it is to go into a store, not only to get a proper impression of the styling (pictures often don’t always do a trainer justice), but trying on a range of fits is a must. Trainers aren’t cheap and if comfort is practically the most important decision don’t leave a shop until you are sure that your trainers fit well and are comfortable. Ask a trained shop assistant to help you. There is a perfect trainer for everyone!
I am on a hunt for a good pair of trainers without laces. I can relate to those whose fingers become so stiff that tying up shoelaces can be near enough impossible at times; I understand that this is imperative to some! I hope I’ve helped, and I would love to hear your feedback!
