Even as you walk leisurely, your feet takes a lot of pressure. Now just imagine how much beating they’d get if you run and jump and repeat the process for several hours. Without the proper support from a reliable pair of shoes, it won’t be long ‘til you end up getting injured which may prematurely end your game or even your entire sporty lifestyle. Thankfully, this is a fortunate age for women. Since the 1900 Olympics, where women were first allowed to compete, production of various types of ladies’ sports shoes have picked up with designs that have both function and fashion. Here is what you should look for:

Sports shoe types

Stability shoes are designed to offer a balance between cushioning and control. They are the most common type you’ll find in the market simply because they caters to the most prevalent type of pronators - the neutral or normal type.

Cushioned running shoes are the best to choice to counteract supination as they have adequate shock absorption on the lateral side of the shoes.

Motion control type is the best choice for severe overpronators or flat-footed people because it focuses more of its support on the medial side of the foot to prevent injuries.

Racing flats have been known to help improve a runner’s speed by about 4 seconds. It’s the type of shoes for women who take running quite seriously. With minimal cushion and weight, racing flats are best used for marathon distances under 10 kilometers.

Trail runners are for women whose sport is off-road jogging, mountain trekking or for those who are simply looking for a heavy-duty, all-terrain, weatherproof pair, then trail running shoes are a must-have. Its rugged features are specially designed to provide ample traction on uneven surfaces and protection from sharp and jagged objects. Depending on the brand and model, some trail runners can be either water-resistant or waterproof, while some are made of material that expels water just as easily as it can absorb it.

Cross- trainers are for women who engage in various athletic activities. Cross-trainers are so-called because they are considered the all-purpose type of sports shoes. They are best known for their comfort, and with meshed soles, they allow your feet to “breathe”.

Lightweight trainers, as the name suggests, are made of light materials designed for those who engage in sports activities that require speed and brisk footwork. They are, however, meant only for casual sports enthusiasts because they do not provide ample cushioning, support and durability.

Walking shoes are, of all the types on this list, most aesthetically conservative sports shoes. These lot are flexible and comfortable to wear and are great for walking on even surfaces.

Top sneakers, trainers and other women sports shoes on the market

Some of the top sneakers today are Merrell Women's JUNGLE MOC gunsmoke slip-on shoes, Converse Women's Chuck Taylor All Star Fancy Seas, Nurse Mates Women's Lexi sneakers and Vans Classic Slip-On sneakers.

If you are into more extreme sports like cycling and mountaineering, you need specially designed women’s sports shoes. These shoes are designed to grip and make you feel stable all the time. Consider some of the top selling brands in this category including Sidi Genius Fit Women's Shoes, Northwave Typhoon S.B.S. Women's Shoes, Merrell Jungle Moc Women's Shoes and New Balance 99v1 Trail Shoes for Women (photo 2).

Running shoes are perhaps the highest selling of all the different types of women’s sports shoes. When you look at some of the best known names in women’s sports shoes, you will find that there is an extensive range for runners. This is because women don’t run professionally but even when they are into personal exercises. Consider the following models in women’s running shoes and you will be delighted with your experience – Nike Air Max 2014 Women's Running Shoes (photo 1), New Balance WO10 Minimus Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoes for Women, Nurse Mates Women's Lexi Running Shoes and Asics Gel Frequency 2 Women's Running Shoes.

And it is best to stick to the biggest known brands in women’s sports shoes. These manufacturers have the experience and they will keep your feet safe. Adidas, Nike, Asics, New Balance and Skechers make some excellent women’s sports shoes.