Verdict from 2 experts and 100+ user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- The majority of owners stated that the Ryka Influence 2.5 was comfortable to be worn for extended periods.
- Numerous reviewers adored the design and style of the trainer.
- Many users claimed that it was great for dance-related exercises and high-intensity workouts.
- The Pivot Point feature was much appreciated by plenty of commenters as it allowed for quick foot-transitions during the routines.
- Several people mentioned that they liked how the lacing system hugged their feet.
- A few consumers stated that the shoe offered adequate heel and arch support.
- Some fitness enthusiasts were pleased that it did not need breaking in.
2 reasons not to buy
- Many gym-goers stated that it did not offer enough support in the ankles and the heel.
- There were claims that the Influence 2.5 caused foot or knee pain after a few hours of use.
Bottom line
The Ryka Influence 2.5 was highly recommended by dance workout enthusiasts and those who enjoy high-intensity training. One of the welcomed features was the Pivot Point as it allowed for smooth twists and turns without putting pressure on the knees and ankles. The cage-like lacing system also appealed to many training enthusiasts who were looking for a shoe with adequate lateral support. Though the trainer received positive reviews, some wearers were not pleased that it did not have adequate ankle and heel support. It also caused foot discomfort and pain for several individuals.
Tip: see the best workout training shoes.
Good to know
The Ryka Influence 2.5 is a training shoe designed to meet the unique needs of a woman with an active lifestyle. It builds on the success of previous Influence models and retains features such as the breathable mesh upper with the Flex-Foil and Direct-Fuse technologies that give the top part structure and support.
The Influence 2.5 sports an ergonomic rubber outsole that supports the natural movement of the foot. The rubber compound is durable, resilient, and the ridges found on it serve to increase the surface area to provide better traction. It sports a design similar to a footprint, reinforcing those parts of the sole unit that are likely to receive higher impact.
The Pivot Point at the ball area makes transitions easy during studio-based workouts. This feature offers enough traction to support controlled turns to prevent stressing the knee or ankle joints.
This workout shoe from Ryka uses the N-Gage EVA for its midsole. It is designed to return energy on impact which allows it to accommodate quick direction changes associated with dance workouts.
The trainer also features the RE-ZORB sockliner. It is an engineered foam that adds a layer of shock absorption and impact protection to the shoe.
The medial post uses a harder EVA material. This structure is located under the arch and gives it better support while also controlling pronation.
A mesh material makes up the upper of the Ryka Influence 2.5. This type of fabric is lightweight and breathable to keep the foot chamber ventilated.
The Flex-Foil is a type of welded synthetic material that protects high wear-and-tear areas without adding weight. This technology protects the toe box, parts of the side panels, the lacing system, and the heel counter.
This model also employs the Direct-Fuse, another synthetic material, to reinforce the upper. The fusion of the two elements creates a stitch-less system that is strong and supportive, but lightweight.
An independent lacing system allows users to customize the fit and lateral support. The round laces pass through cable-like structures that span the midfoot on both sides. When the laces are pulled, the cables become taut and draws the side panels closer to the foot, thereby enhancing the lateral support.
At the back of the footwear, the padded collar supports the ankle and prevents the foot from sliding out of the shoe while in motion. It also has an external heel counter that holds the back of the foot in place so he foot won’t wobble when doing explosive movements.
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