Fitness -- Better Shoes for Your Workouts

From Shape magazine's April 2007 issue, a few of the sneakers reviewed stood out. Better sneakers may mean fewer injuries, less sore muscles and joints.

Nike Shox O-Drive ($100 approximate retail prices)
Who it's for: Dance-class divas who want shoes that keep them on their toes
Details: One tester, who wore the O-Drive in a step class, says that the pivot point on the smooth soles "makes turns easier." When jumping, your knees won't feel the shock thanks to the heel's five cushioning coils.

Avia A191W ($55)
On stair climbers and treadmills, testers appreciate the "shock-absorbing heel" of these "supportive" shoes, which protects joints and keeps feet steady.

Reebok DMX Mega WalkR ($70)
Who it's for: Walkers of all speeds
Details: This winner gets rave reviews for its "secure," stable base as well as its "light, bouncy" qualities. The mostly mesh uppers are "breathable," a boon on longer and warm-weather walks. Deep grooves on the soles and extra cushioning under the the balls of the feet let one tester "land softly and push off fast," making this shoe "a pleasure to walk in."

Saucony ProGrid Omni 6 ($100)
Who it's for: Runners with lower arches; heavy heel strikers
Details: Dense rubber on the outer edge of the heel, where impact first occurs, absorbs shock. One runner says the shoe's beefed-up midsole offers "plenty of support at the arch, where you need it." Testers also say the push-off is "exceptional," because of the "springy" heel.

New Balance WR1060 ($120)
Who it's for: Runners with a high arch or a neutral stride
Details: Many shoes have shock absorption only under the heel, but this one has joint-cushioning inserts under the forefoot as well. "It feels supportive but responsive enough to propel me forward," says one marathoner. Thanks to a roomy toe box, this pair is "comfortable from the get-go."

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 7 ($95)
Who it's for: Runners training for a 10K or longer race
Details: Gel-filled heel and forefoot inserts allow for "superb rebound" that "makes each step feel easier." One runner who's gearing up for a marathon says her knees "don't ache like they usually do" after longer training sessions. High-milers also appreciate how the upper's ventilation and antimicrobial collar and tongue squelch odors.

Asics Gel Kayano 13 ($135)
Boasting the largest shock-absorbing gel insert ever in an Asics shoe, the sleek Kayano "combines good support with a lightweight, speedy feel."