Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe - Cushioning for Dance

In this review of the Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe, the bottom line is simple: this is a lightweight cross-trainer built for dance fitness and low-impact classes where cushioning and lateral support matter most. The shoe stands out because of its N-Gage energy return foam and a pivot point outsole that helps keep turns smooth, making it a reliable pick for Zumba, cardio dance, and other side-to-side motion workouts. Fit and long-term durability get mixed feedback, but for anyone prioritizing comfort and movement agility, these shoes deliver immediate performance.

Key Features

• N-Gage foam: Provides energy return and cushioning so impacts feel softer while the midsole holds its shape during repeated movement.
• Made for women fit: Narrower heel and roomier toe box provide a more secure rearfoot lock and less crowding at the toes during dance steps.
• Breathable upper: Mesh construction with faux leather overlays balances airflow and durability where the shoe needs reinforcement.
• Pivot Point outsole: The ergonomically-shaped rubber sole with a pivot point supports smooth turns and lateral transitions on studio floors.
• Anatomical insole: Extra arch and heel support help stabilize the foot during side-to-side routines and reduce fatigue over class length.

Who It's For

The Influence is best for women who attend dance-based fitness classes, Zumba, or low-impact cardio sessions and want a lightweight trainer that cushions impacts while enabling quick turns. It is most useful for people who need good arch and lateral support and prefer a shoe designed to a woman's foot shape.

Those who need heavy-duty stability for high-impact running, trail use, or very wide feet should look elsewhere; some customers also reported sizing or durability concerns, so those seeking a very long-lasting, heavy-use studio shoe may prefer options with thicker outsoles or reinforced construction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning from N-Gage foam that reduces impact during dance and cardio classes.
• Good lateral and arch support thanks to the anatomical insole and tailored women's fit.
• Lightweight construction that keeps feet feeling agile during long sessions.
• Pivot Point outsole promotes smooth turns and transitions on studio floors.

Cons

• Fit can be inconsistent for some customers, with a few reporting the shoe runs small.
• Durability is mixed in reviews, so heavy daily use may expose wear sooner than expected.

Specifications

Best for	Dance fitness and low-impact workouts
Performance tech	N-Gage energy return foam
Fit	Made for women: narrower heel, roomier toe
Upper materials	Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays
Insole / midsole	Anatomical insole; lightweight EVA midsole
Outsole	Ergonomically-shaped rubber with Pivot Point
Weight	206 g / 7.2 oz per shoe

Our Verdict

The Ryka Influence is a strong value for women who take dance fitness and low-impact classes and want a lightweight, cushioned trainer with good lateral support and smooth turning. It is not the toughest shoe for heavy daily wear and buyers should check sizing, but for its target use it offers comfort and performance that justify the purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes run true to size?
Many customers find the fit accurate to their usual size, but some report the Influence runs small, so trying on or ordering the brand's recommended half size up is advisable.

Are these shoes good for Zumba and dance classes?
Yes; the Pivot Point outsole and lateral support make them well suited to Zumba and studio dance fitness where quick turns and side-to-side movement are common.

How breathable and cushioned are they?
The mesh upper with faux leather overlays offers breathability, while N-Gage foam and a lightweight EVA midsole provide visible cushioning and energy return for low-impact workouts.