Casual, simple sneakers that come in all different colors and designs. These are great for everyday wear, however, they don't provide much support or cushioning.

• High vs. Low tops: This is all about preferences -- high tops have recently made a strong comeback and help to create a more urban, retro look, while low tops can be worn with just about everything.
• Low Maintenance: These sneakers are perfect for those who believe shoes were meant to get dirty. All it takes to clean these are a little water and some mild detergent.
• Cost: It's cheap! Most canvas sneakers don't exhibit the new and expensive high technology designs that say, running or basketball sneakers do. Therefore, you can grab a decent pair for as little as $20-$40. Special edition sneakers can, however, get to be around $100.
• Popular Brands: Converse,  Keds 

These are perfect for anyone on a budget because it can be used for a wide variety of sports and activities. Cross training sneakers meet the basic necessities of a good athletic sneaker in terms of support, stability, comfort, and durability. They're great for the gym or even an aerobics class!

• Soles: The wide base of these sneaker types provide very good support.
• Weight: Cross training sneakers are heavier than running shoes. Therefore, if you're someone who's on or is planning on getting on a regular running routine, investing in actual running shoes is probably a good idea.
• Replacing: You know to replace the old for new cross training sneakers by looking at the soles. If they're worn or noticeably uneven, then it's time to get new ones. On average, however, you should purchase a new one every year.
• Cost: These can go anywhere from as low as $40 to as high as over $100, so it's basically up to you to decide how much you're willing to pay for the look and/or technology.
• Popular Brands: Adidas,  Nike,  New Balance,  Reebok 

For the dedicated, running sneakers are a must-have as it caters specifically to the needs of a runner.

• Fit: There should be about half an inch of room between your toes and the front of the shoe. Anything tighter usually leads to blisters and hurt toes.
• Stability: To find the perfect pair of running shoes is actually a lot more complicated than it seems, mostly because everyone has different feet. Check out this guide by Dick's Sporting Goods to find out what your specific needs are.
• Cost: A lot of research and new technology goes into this category of shoes so be prepared to shell out a good $50-$100 for a good pair of running shoes.
• Popular Brands: Asics,  Nike,  New Balance 

If you're looking to take it easy on the knees and exercise by walking, this category of sneakers is the best bet. They have more support for the arch of your feet and lower heels than running sneakers do, all to help make the most of your walking experience.

• Technology: When it comes to research and new technology, most of it is actually going towards running and basketball sneakers. So while walking sneakers should be ideal for those who don't plan to run, some find trying on a couple of running sneakers a good idea as well.
• Comfort and Stability: The two things you should be looking for in a good pair of walking sneakers is comfort and stability. If you have problem areas, such as the arcs, make sure the pair you get addresses those needs, and the best way to make sure of that is to try on as many different pairs possible.
• Cost: Similar to cross-training sneakers, walking sneakers are usually between $40 and $100.
• Popular Brands: New Balance,  Rockport 

If you're planning on hiking, then investing in actual hiking sneakers is a good idea. While walking and running shoes can work as well, they don't provide the important ankle support and traction for uneven, rough surfaces that is required of this sport.

• Ankle Support: As mentioned already, ankle support is important. While hiking boots probably provide the most stability and support, they're too heavy and bulky for most people, so make sure those light hiking sneakers of yours have the most support possible!
• Insulation: Hiking sneakers don't provide as much insulation as hiking boots. Therefore, try to look for sneakers with newer technology, or plan on investing in some heat-retaining socks!
• Cost: These go for around $40-$90. There is a lot of variation and according to your needs, the price can vary.
• Popular Brands: Columbia,  Merrell 

Designed to sit flat on a skateboard, these are pretty much both a necessity as well as personal fashion statement these days. These sneakers comes in all different colors and designs, the checkered Vans design being probably the most well-known of them all.

• Soles: The soles should be thick, flat, and uniform throughout. Because you will be using them with specific equipment (your skateboard), it's a good idea to bring your skateboard with you to test out how it grips the deck.
• Extra Protection: Skateboarding is a sport where some parts of the shoe will get more beat up and worn than others, so look for extra padding in those areas.
• Cost: Somewhere between $30-$70 is what you're going to be paying for a good pair of skateboarding shoes.
• Popular Brands: Vans,  Etnies,  DC,  Globes,  DVS 

Cleats are commonly worn by those who play soccer and football. However, any sport that is played in mud or grass requires these spiked sneakers.

• Traction: These shoes exist to give you mainly one thing: traction. It allows you to run on a wide aray of surfaces and weather conditions.
• Material: Leather is better because it lasts longer than synthetic materials. However, be prepared to pay the extra cash for it.
• Fit: Higher-quality cleats should mold to your feet over time. Therefore, the shoes should fit snugly when you first try them on.
• Cost: Most people will pay about $40-$80 for a good pair, however, it's also not uncommon for people to pay in the hundreds for a newly released design.
• Popular Brands: Puma,  Adidas,  Nike 

Like skateboarding, tennis requires their own special category of shoes as well because of the quick shifts and changes in movement that the sport requires.

• Soles: Because tennis is played on a number of different surfaces, it is important to get the right kind of sole for what surface you plan to play on:
• Hardcourts: Traditional herringbone soles are the best.
• Clay courts: Specific clay court tennis shoes that allow you to slide around as you please.
• Grasscourts: Soles with small rubber studs that prevent slipping.
• Carpet courts: Completely smooth soles are ideal and safest.
• Support: Tennis players need to move quickly from side to side, so make sure that the shoes you get have lateral support.
• Cost: This category of shoes, like running shoes, can be a bit pricier than most. Most people spend between $50-$100 for a good pair.
• Popular Brands: Vans,  Puma,  Adidas,  ES,  K-Swiss 

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