Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe - Lightweight Dance Fitness Shoe

In this review of the Ryka Women's Influence Training Shoe the bottom line is simple: it is built for people who take dance fitness and low-impact classes seriously and want a lightweight, cushioned trainer that supports turns and all-day wear. The most compelling reason to buy is the combination of N-Gage energy return foam and a pivot-friendly sole that keeps movements smooth while protecting joints during repetitive dance patterns. Fit is tailored to a woman's foot shape, and the shoe's breathable mesh and padded heel make it comfortable from warmups through cooldowns.

Key Features

• N-Gage foam: Provides responsive energy return and cushioning that helps retain shape after frequent use and reduces impact on joints.
• Made for women fit: A narrower heel and roomier toe box offer a more secure rearfoot fit while allowing natural toe splay for dance moves.
• Pivot Point outsole: The built-in pivot point allows smoother turns and transitions in dance fitness and Zumba-style classes.
• Breathable materials: Mesh upper with faux leather overlays balances airflow and durability in high-wear areas.
• Anatomical insole: Adds extra arch and heel support to improve comfort during long sessions or all-day wear.
• Lightweight construction: At about 206 g/7.2 oz per shoe, the design keeps the foot feeling light for quick footwork and agility.

Who It's For

This shoe is ideal for women who attend dance fitness classes, low-impact cardio, and studio cross-training sessions where mobility and a smooth pivot matter. The design favors people who want a supportive, cushioned shoe that still feels light underfoot and who appreciate a fit tailored to a woman's narrower heel and roomier toe.

Shoppers who need heavy impact running support, wide-width specific construction, or maximalist cushioning for long road runs should look elsewhere. Also, those with very wide feet may find the fit snug in the midfoot even though many customers report a comfortable width.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable all-day wear thanks to padded heel and anatomical insole.
• Excellent for dance fitness: pivot point and lightweight sole aid smooth turns and quick steps.
• Good support and shape retention from N-Gage foam and EVA midsole.
• Breathable mesh with overlays provides durability without excess weight.

Cons

• Some wearers with wider feet report the fit is not roomy enough in the midfoot or toe area.

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 material	Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays
Insole / midsole	Anatomical insole with extra arch and heel support; lightweight EVA midsole
Outsole	Ergonomically-shaped rubber sole with Pivot Point
Weight	206 g / 7.2 oz per shoe

Our Verdict

The Ryka Influence is a focused training shoe that delivers good value for anyone who prioritizes dance fitness and low-impact studio work. Its combination of N-Gage foam, anatomical support, and pivot-friendly outsole makes it especially useful for Zumba and class-based cardio, while the tailored women's fit improves rearfoot security. Buy it if you want a lightweight, supportive trainer for studio sessions; consider a wider model if you need extra room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for Zumba and dance fitness?
Yes. The Pivot Point outsole and lightweight construction make them well suited for Zumba and other dance fitness classes.

Do they run true to size?
Many customers report they fit true to size, but people with wider feet may find the midfoot or toe area snug and should consider trying a wider option.

How is the cushioning?
The N-Gage foam plus EVA midsole and padded heel provide responsive cushioning and shape retention that handles repeated impact well.