Making sure the shoe fits: Preston Ramsey puts his clients on solid footing.

Engaged in a regular workout schedule? Unfortunately, you're sneakers are probably as old as your routine. Comfort is usually the most cited reason for wearing the same athletic shoe for years, according to Brooklyn, New York, native Preston Ramsey, a personal trainer and gym designer. "But when working out this can be a big mistake," he says. "A shoe can break down." Worn down heels and cracks in the soles are signals that it's time to shop, but more significant is foot pain following a workout. Ramsey notes some professional athletes change their shoes during games to avoid these issues.

Regardless of the type of shoe, fit, cushioning, and stability are important factors when buying athletic footwear. And Ramsey agrees with The American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society, which recommends buying sport-specific shoes if participating in a sport at least three times weekly:

1. Cross-trainers permit multisport use

2. Aerobic and tennis sneakers offer lateral stability.

3. Walking sneakers cushion the ball of the foot.

4. Running sneakers permit toe flexibility and cushion the heel from shock.

ADVICE FOR BUYING SNEAKERS

1. Look for good arch and heel support. You should be able to move your toes, and the shoe should grip the heel.

2. The cushioning system should be durable and support your efforts during runs, games, or matches.

3. Keep more than one pair in your rotation, just like dress shoes. While playing certain sports, this is your most important piece of equipment, and if this fails, injuries may occur.

4. Look for quality workmanship, including stitching. Also, there should be no excess glue protruding from the upper portion of the sneaker.

5. There should be no bleeding from the color-way of the shoe. This means if there is a colored stripe on the shoe, or a featured color in the design, it should not run on to the rest of the shoe, or your socks.