In 1987, Sheri Poe did something a little different. She created an athletic shoe made specifically for a woman. A woman’s foot shape, build and muscle movements are not just scaled-down versions of a man. They are something all on their own.
Ryka shoes have narrow heels, a roomy toe box, and soft cushioning right where it’s needed. Whether a woman is into jogging, aerobics, or even weight lifting, Ryka is sure to have the right athletic shoes for her.
What Is Ryka Brand?
Ryka brand is a little different from the usual athletic shoes. Many brands of athletic shoes are just men’s athletic shoes scaled down. The thing is, women aren’t just shrunken down men. Women’s bones and muscles are very different from men.
This is like the difference between Supergirl and Wonder Woman. The Ryka shoe isn’t a man’s shoe scaled-down and painted pink. It’s something all on its own. (Though it does carry pink colorways if that’s what you like.)
Is Ryka A Good Brand?
They are comfortable and reasonably priced. They are lightweight and good for both running and walking. They have a lot of satisfied customers who find the shoe to be comfortable and supportive. The most frequent complaints seem to be web site difficulties (since fixed) and the fact that they run a bit on the small side.
On the humanitarian side, Ryka donates at least $10,000 every quarter to ROSE (Regaining One’s Self Esteem), a charity dedicated to stopping violence against women.
Who Owns Ryka Shoes?
Since 2011, Ryka has been owned by Caleres. Previously, it had belonged to Global Sports and American Sporting Goods Corporation.
Where Are Ryka Shoes Made?
The headquarters is in Irvine, California but the tag says “Made in China”.
Do Ryka Shoes Have Good Arch Support?
The Ryka Women’s Assist XT in particular has great arch support and is very comfortable. They’re stable enough to do weightlifting in.
Are Ryka Shoes Good For Walking?
The Ryka Women’s Sky Walk Walking Shoe is built for this form of exercise. It is supportive and durable and does not slip on the heel easily. They fit true to size and require no break-in period.
Are Ryka Shoes Good For Running?
The Ultimate is the shoe made by Ryka specifically for running. The EVA midsole on the sneaker offers flexibility while the cushioning insole will supply comfort. The crash heel pad is something every running shoe should have.
Are Ryka Shoes Good For Plantar Fasciitis?
The Sky Walking shoe has merits for this as well. They have excellent arch support and they are very lightweight. The memory foam sock liner is just the thing for plantar fasciitis.
Do Ryka Shoes Run Big Or Small?
They’re a little on the small side. Many people recommend going half a size up, particularly if you wear thick socks.
Ryka Vs. Nike
Nike is the favored brand of athletic shoes. It has undeniably left a hard to meet the benchmark that other athletic shoes are judged by. However, they are one of the aforementioned brands that make athletic shoes for men and just scale them down for women.
Ryka Vs. Asics
The Asics are somewhat less expensive than Ryka. The gel technology in the soles of Asics does add to comfort and stability. Ryka is lighter and has better traction. Plus, Asics does not strictly cater to women as Ryka does.
Where To Buy Ryka Shoes?
Ryka.com is a good place to go, also they are available at Amazon and wherever women’s athletic wear is sold.
Top Rated Ryka Shoes
Here are some of the best models Ryka has on the market. Comparison shop to see which is best for you.
1. Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe
These are shoes certainly devoted to comfort. They are quite durable and have great shock absorption. It’s no wonder the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoe is one of the more popular of the Ryka models.
Features and Benefits:
- Comfort The padded tongue and collar prevents blisters and chafing. The lacing system provides an adjustable fit. The footbed is removable for convenience.
- Shock Absorption The Re-Sorb cushioning technology keeps the foot comfortable with every step. Cobblestone pods add to the shock absorption.
- Stability A narrow heel cup provides more stability. The toe box is roomy yet sturdy. The footbed prevents ankle rolling.
- Durability The eight-piece rubber skeletal outsole ensures that these shoes are built to last.
- Value These shoes overall are breathable, stylish, and comfortable. Well worth what’s spent on them.
What We Like:
- The shoes are very flexible.
- They are lightweight.
- They are very breathable and comfortable.
What We Don’t:
- They are not for tough trail running.
2. Ryka Women’s Hydro Sport Training Water Shoe
Here is a shoe that is great for doing water aerobics. The Ryka Women’s Hydro Sport Training Water Shoe has drainage ports so that even after they’re submerged the water will just pour right out.
Features and Benefits:
- Comfort A padded tongue and collar prevents blisters and chafing. The toggle lace system makes it easy for the shoes to be taken on and off. It has a removable cushioning Nitracel insole for both comfort and convenience.
- Shock Absorption The Nitracel insole cushions the foot and provides shock absorption.
- Stability The midfoot cage offers both medial and lateral support.
- Durability The compression-molded EVA midsole is long-lasting. The sticky rubber outsole comes with drainage ports so that the shoe will not take on water damage.
- Value The high quality and styling of this shoe make it well worth the cost.
What We Like:
- There is plenty of cushioning and shock absorption.
- The traction is very good.
- The shoes are lightweight yet durable.
What We Don’t:
- The laces come undone easily.
3. Ryka Women’s Sky Walk Walking Shoe
Yeah, I know, the name makes you want to grab a lightsaber. But it is a comfortable and lightweight shoe that is very stylish and good for taking a power walk around the block.
Features and Benefits:
- Comfort The memory foam has a latex base to keep the sock liner from staying compressed and delivers support all day.
- Shock Absorption Not much here.
- Stability The lightweight molded Eva comes with a TPU midfoot shank.
- Durability The rubber outsole provides durability and traction on many surfaces.
- Value Pretty good.
What We Like:
- The traction is good.
- The toe box is roomy.
- The shoes are breathable and lightweight.
What We Don’t:
- The fit is narrow.
- There isn’t much arch support.
4. Ryka Women’s Influence Cross-Training Shoe
The Ryka Women’s Influence cross-training shoe works very well for a vast variety of activities and sports. The support, cushioning and grippy sole can take on just about anything.
Features and Benefits:
- Comfort The padded collar and tongue prevent blistering. Cage like lacing system gives you a custom fit. The mesh uppers are breathable so the shoe doesn’t feel too hot.
- Shock Absorption The dual impact insole provides ample shock absorption. The insoles are very responsive.
- Stability The dual-density foam midsole with high impact N-Gage EVA energy return delivers shape retention and cushioning on impact.
- Durability The rubber sole is grippy and flexible for traction and durability.
- Value Not bad.
What We Like:
- There is no slippage in the heel.
- It has good cushioning.
- It has excellent traction.
- The material is breathable.
What We Don’t:
- The sole is too thin.
- It runs too high on the ankle for some people.
5. RYKA Women’s Dash 3 Walking Shoe
Here is an update to a classic. The Dash 3 walking shoe from Ryka has a lot to offer. Not only does it deliver the comfort and support you require but a fun design that you’re sure to love.
Features and Benefits:
- Comfort The uppers are composed of a breathable mesh with supportive leather overlays. The round toe is roomy so the foot has room to move.
- Shock Absorption The Anatomical Precise-Return footbed absorbs shock. The rounded edges provide a smooth ride.
- Stability The molded EVA midsole provides great overall stability to the shoe.
- Durability The outsole has full rubber coverage in order to offer the best in traction, durability, and flexibility.
- Value They are well worth it.
What We Like:
- They have a good amount of cushioning.
- The traction is good.
- The shoes are lightweight.
- The shock absorption is great.
What We Don’t:
- The heel isn’t narrow enough.
What Shoes Do Doctors Recommend For Plantar Fasciitis?
Shoes for people with plantar fasciitis are recommended to wear supportive shoes that fit well. They need to have cushioning and arch support. Take care to properly measure each foot to determine that you’re getting the best fit.
Can Plantar Fasciitis Be Caused By Shoes?
The problem can certainly be exacerbated by the wrong kind of shoes. Shoes that have soft soles and insufficient arch support can lead to plantar fasciitis.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot. It acts as a shock absorber when you walk. Should tension and stress build-up and get too heavy, small tears may happen in the fascia. Repeatedly stretching and tearing can inflame and irritate the fascia. However, the cause in many cases of plantar fasciitis remains unknown.
What Aggravates Plantar Fasciitis?
Too much weight on the feet can aggravate plantar fasciitis as cannot doing warm-ups before exercising. The wrong shoes can be a major aggravator. Wear the right shoes for your condition and do exercises that stretch the Achilles’ tendon and the calf muscles plus the plantar fascia.
What Not To Do With Plantar Fasciitis?
The most important thing to do is rest until the inflammation goes down. An ice pack can reduce the swelling. You can take some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to further reduce swelling. You can do exercises to stretch your calves and Achilles tendon. Stabilize your ankle with compression. You may also wear supportive inserts in your shoe.
Is Walking Bad For Plantar Fasciitis?
If you are in pain, don’t walk. That will just lead to more pain. At least do some stretches in the morning first until the pain goes away.
How To Ease The Pain Of Plantar Fasciitis?
Besides stretching your plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles and icing the area you may also try switching over to a low impact sport for exercises such as swimming or cycling.
If your shoes no longer give you the support you need, get rid of them. Your shoes should have a low to moderate heel, good arch support, thick heels, and extra cushioning. Do not walk around barefoot. You may also want to try dropping a few pounds.
N.B. You may find this article helpful Role Of Chiropractor In Plantar Fasciitis
Conclusion
Ryka shoes have a compelling back story that is too much for just this one article. They are made for the woman who likes to stay active. They are also fit for the woman who suffers from plantar fasciitis and needs good arch support and plenty of cushioning.
