Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe - Lightweight Cushioning Shoes

Our review of the Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe finds it best for people who take dance fitness or low-impact classes and want a lightweight shoe with focused cushioning and support. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of the N-Gage energy return foam and anatomically shaped insole, which keeps the foot supported during turns and sustained movement while still feeling light underfoot. Reviewers consistently report comfort and support for Zumba and similar workouts, making these shoes a sensible pick for dance-conditioned training.

Key Features

• N-Gage foam: Delivers energy return and cushioning on impact so jumps and quick steps feel less jarring.
• Made for women fit: Designed with a narrower heel and roomier toe to match typical female foot shapes and reduce heel slip.
• Breathable mesh upper: Keeps the foot ventilated during long classes while faux leather overlays add durable structure.
• Ergonomic outsole with pivot point: Provides durable contact in high-wear areas and a pivot point for smooth turns during dance moves.
• Anatomical insole: Adds extra arch and heel support to maintain stability during side-to-side and rotational movements.

Who It's For

The Influence is aimed at women who do dance fitness, Zumba, barre, and other low-impact cross-training where agility and a responsive feel matter more than heavy cushioning. It works well for people who value a light shoe (about 7.2 oz per shoe) and want built-in arch and heel support for longer class sessions.

Those with very wide feet or who need maximum shock absorption for high-impact running should look elsewhere; the shoe is tailored to a narrower heel and a medium width that some buyers found snug. Also, runners seeking long-distance cushioning will prefer a dedicated running design.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning that can be worn all day without pain for low-impact activity.
• Good support and stability for dance fitness thanks to the anatomical insole and N-Gage foam.
• Lightweight construction and breathable materials keep feet feeling nimble and cool.
• Durable outsole with pivot point helps with smooth turns and adds longevity in high-wear zones.

Cons

• Not ideal for very wide feet; some customers report the width is too narrow for their toes.
• Designed for low-impact work, so it is not the best choice for high-mileage running.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Ryka Influence is a strong value for women who attend dance fitness and low-impact classes and want a lightweight, supportive shoe with good turnability. Its cushioning and anatomical support make it comfortable for extended sessions, while the pivot-ready outsole helps with agility; choose a larger width if your feet are wide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for Zumba?
Yes, customers praise the support and pivot point for Zumba and similar dance fitness classes.

Do they run true to size?
Most buyers find the length true, but some report the width is narrow, so consider trying a wider size if you have broad feet.

Can I use them for running?
They are designed for low-impact workouts and dance, not for high-mileage running; a running-specific shoe is recommended for that use.