If You’re Not Walking in Rykas, You’re Doing It Wrong

They might not get the same air time as Hokas or Brooks, but the Ryka shoe reviews that are out there are positively glowing—and a lot of that praise comes from foot health experts (as well as sneaker connoisseurs here at SELF). “Ryka is well regarded among podiatrists, as they’re designed with women’s foot biomechanics in mind,” Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist based in North Carolina, tells SELF. “I’m impressed with their commitment to women’s fitness and comfort.”

A trademark of the brand’s shoes is a wider toe box, balanced by a narrow, snug-fitting heel. Dr. Daughtry says this design maps most women’s feet (and we’d say that anyone with this foot shape may benefit from giving Ryka a try). Its walking shoes are easily its flagship category, but there’s a Ryka sneaker out there for everyone—we’ve tested enough to know. Check out our favorite pairs below, then read on to learn more about what makes this brand special.

Our top picks

1. Best Overall: Ryka Devotion X 2, $120
2. Best for Cushioning: Ryka Devotion X Max RS, $100
3. Best Cross Trainer: Ryka Influence Cross Trainer, $90
4. Trendiest: Ryka Devotion Max Mary Jane, $90
5. Best Athleisure: Ryka Podflow EZ, $90
6. Best for Cardio Classes: Ryka Vida RZX, $100

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Best Overall: Ryka Devotion X 2

It’s easy to see why the Devotion X is Ryka’s bestseller: Its heel is stiff and supportive, while its forefoot bends and flexes as you move. It also has a moderate amount of cushioning that keeps the shoe feeling light yet comfy. To top it off, it earned a seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which experts only grant to shoes they consider good for foot health.

This is an updated version of my personal favorite pair of Rykas, which are still going strong. I wear them for long neighborhood walks, trips to the park, and busy days full of errands—they reliably support my flat feet and keep a spring in my step.

Best for Cushioning: Ryka Devotion X Max RS

Take the Devotion X, add a layer of cloudlike cushioning, and you get the Devotion X Max RS. It won a SELF Sneaker Award this year for its plush ride. “They’re my new go-to walking shoe,” our tester said. “Highly recommend for running errands and going on walks.”

Responsive padding runs the length of the shoe’s midsole, while its upper consists of breathable mesh—no sweaty feet here. If shoes with balanced cushioning don’t quite soften your steps and most highly cushioned shoes feel unwieldy, give this sneaker a try. It’s stable yet shock absorbing, so you get the best of both worlds.

Best Cross Trainer: Ryka Influence Cross Trainer

Like any good cross trainer, the Influence has what it takes to carry you through weightlifting sessions, cardio workouts, HIIT classes, and wherever else your gym sesh takes you. Its outsole is made of durable, grippy rubber that keeps you grounded, and its midsole consists of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, which helps you stay light on your feet when the pace picks up.

Trendiest: Ryka Devotion Max Mary Jane

An expert-approved ballerina sneaker? Sign us up. The Devotion Max Mary Jane has the same well-padded midsole as Ryka’s Devotion Max walking shoe, but its midfoot strap gives it a fashion-y edge. We love when we can hop on a sneaker trend and still be kind to our feet, and this Mary Jane certainly fits the bill.

Best Athleisure: Ryka Podflow EZ

Available in breezy pastels and equipped with an on-trend toggle fastener, the Podflow EZ was basically made to complement your favorite joggers or leggings-and-crop-top set. But, according to our tester, they’re not just nice to look at—they’re also built to perform. “They have ample cushioning and are pretty lightweight, so they’re really comfortable for everyday walking and being on your feet for extended periods of time,” She says.

Best for Cardio Classes: Ryka Vida RZX

Stevie Eberle, SCW, AFAA, a personal trainer and fitness instructor at Bay Club Redwood Shores in California, previously told SELF that the Vida RZX are their go-tos for fast-paced dance classes. “They’re lightweight, breathable, well-arched, and have a beautiful pivot point,” they said. “I’m pretty rough with them, and they hold up!”

One thing to note: This sneaker’s ability to support multi-directional movements makes it perfect for dance and Zumba—but it isn’t designed for running, where cushioning and forward propulsion are your priorities. Luckily, Ryka also makes some great running shoes you can lace up for your next jog.

Frequently asked questions about Ryka

Related:

• The Best New Balance Shoes That Runners and Podiatrists Keep Recommending
• The Best Nike Running Shoes for Every Outing
• The Best Adidas Running Shoes to Try This Year

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