Style:
For starters, the Forza Trainer is an attractive shoe! It comes in multiple colors for men and women. For women, there are four choices: black, elderberry, white, and gray (featured throughout this article). It is available for women in Sizes 5-12.
A noticeable feature of the shoe is a strap that runs around much of the foot, including over the upper laces. The instep strap is also a heel strap. This strap makes the foot feel really secure while doing whatever exercise – lifting, jogging, pilates, etc.
The Forza Trainer – as is the case with all Xero Shoes – has a wider toe box than typical sneakers. This allows toes to spread out and move freely – the way our toes are naturally supposed to.
Sole & Tread:
The Forza Trainer has a flexible sole with good grip. There is a removable insole, if one wants to remove it. I have not, but have seen other people online talking about the option to take it out. Because it has this insole that can be removed, it does have a bit more cushion than some other minimalist shoes. So, it’s a good “intro” to the world of minimalist shoes.
Cons:
From other reviews I have read, some people say the strap isn’t built well. They wish it was longer. Others say that the shoe holds sweat and their feet feel hot after an intense workout. They think that the Forza Trainer is not the best option for breathability. Personally, I have no complaints about either the strap or the shoe’s inability to breathe. The mesh upper part of the Forza Trainer offers adequate ventilation for me.
Uses:
Online, I see that the Xero Shoes Forza Trainer is a popular shoe with weight lifters.
I have been wearing it for indoor exercising. I have worn the Forza Trainer for Zumba exercise videos. I wear them when I do wall pilates. Lastly, I wear them for steep incline walking on the treadmill. They are lightweight and feel sock-like!
I have not run in them. If I did, I know that they would tire my legs more quickly than a shoe with more cushion, such as a Hoka. The zero heel-to-toe drop design really strengthens the calves and arches.
My daughter’s pediatrician, actually, has completely made the shift from Hokas to Xero Shoes. He shared with us that after years and years of wearing cushy shoes, his arches were very weak and in pain. His shift to Xero Shoes has strengthened his arches. My daughter, who has hyper flexibility issues with her joints, is now also wearing Xero Shoes.
I’d recommend giving the Forza Trainer a try if you’re in the market for an attractive, lightweight comfortable new shoe for your various exercise needs – or even for casual wearing. An added bonus will be that this type of minimalist shoe will strengthen your feet and legs!
