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Can You Wear Yeezys to the Gym?

By: Author Stephanie Rodriguez

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Can You Wear Yeezys to the Gym?

Can You Wear Yeezys to the Gym?

Since their launch in 2007, sneakerheads and average shoe buyers have flocked to the Yeezy brand.  A collaboration between the rapper Kanye West and Adidas, Yeezys have left on imprint on the shoe industry that has proven difficult to replicate.

However, if you have been lucky enough to cop a pair of Yeezys, you may be wondering whether or not you can wear Yeezys to the gym. 

Below, we are going to discuss if you can wear Yeezys to the gym and provide you with a list of alternatives that are perfect for the gym.

What Are Yeezys?

If you’re not a sneakerhead, you may be wondering, just what are Yeezys? 

In short, Yeezys are a line of shoes designed by famed rapper Kanye West with a partnership from Adidas.  Although the collaboration between the two also includes shirts, jackets, pants, and even socks, generally Yeezys refer to the shoe line.

Although the Yeezy lineup originally began with a collaboration between Kanye West and Bape, the collaboration was short-lived. 

Kanye West would then collaborate with Nike to release additional pairs of his famed shoes.  However, after five-years with Nike, West would partner and collaborate with Adidas on his next lineup.

While Kanye West described his departure from Nike as, “heartbreaking”, he claimed that Nike would not pay him royalties for his shoe designs, rather opting to pay some of the proceeds to a charity of his choice. 

This decision by Nike would force Kanye to reach out to Adidas for a partnership deal. 

In addition to agreeing to pay Kanye West royalties on his designs, Adidas also provided Kanye West with 100% ownership of the brand and full creative control over the products release. 

Due to this control, Kanye West has decided to offer Yeezys in extremely limited supply.

This artificial supply release has been notable.  Due to the limited number of pairs released, sneakerheads, fans, and casual shoppers alike all vie for a pair, creating inflated demand and significant price hikes on the secondary market.

As a result, many Yeezys, originally retailed for a couple of hundred dollars, may resell for several thousand. 

It can be said with near certainty then that Yeezys have fully transcended from a regular shoe to an icon.  Yeezys are no longer seen as just a pair of shoes but rather as a designer, luxury item.

Best Yeezys Available to Buy Right Now

Although Yeezys are extremely difficult to purchase at first drop, with time and a bit of patience, many consumers are able to purchase a pair from second-hand resellers.  Below are a few of our favorite pairs:

  • Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 – perhaps our favorite pair of Yeezys are none other than the Yeezy Boost 350 V2. This pair is one of the most iconic designs made by Kanye and have a reputation for superior comfort and relaxation. With a simple, yet forward, design the Yeezy Boost 350 V2 will allow you to enjoy the recognition of Yeezys without sacrificing design or comfort.
  • Adidas Mens Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Yeshaya – the Adidas Mens Yeezy Boost 350 V2 Yeshaya are an upgraded look from the base Boost 350 V2. Nearly impeccable in design, the Yeshaya lineup brings forth a heftier look while maintaining the classic design. And with a slew of vibrant colors across the base of the shoe, you’ll definitely stand out with this pair.
  • Adidas Yeezy 700 V3 Clay Brown – the Adidas Yeezy 700 V3 Clay Brown are one of the most stylish and grungy Yeezys available on the market. With an expanded view, nearly coming out from within itself, the shoe is juxtaposed by a mesh-like system wrapped around the shoe. Forward in design, the Yeezy 700 V3 Clay Brown shoes are great for anyone looking to showcase their love of unique sneaker designs.

Should You Go To The Gym in Yeezys?

With the above understanding, the next question we receive from many readers is whether or not you can, or should, go to the gym wearing a pair of Yeezys. 

Now, although you can go to the gym in Yeezy’s, we would not recommend doing so.  Although the Yeezy lineup is meant to be a casual shoe, it has become a luxury item, costing several hundreds of dollars.

Due to the relative price of a pair of Yeezy’s, wearing them at the gym can lead to significant scuffing, tearing, and degradation of the shoe. 

Essentialy, Yeezys were never made to be worn in the gym, or while playing any sport, and should be worn exclusively off the court.

In addition, the general build and design of Yeezys is not made to support the movement of individuals while at the gym. 

From squatting, to running, to deadlifting and completing a push-up routine, a pair of Yeezys are simply ineffective in providing your entire foot and ankle with the proper support needed for the gym.

Rather, you should always opt for specifically designed gym or workout shoes for all your gym needs.  Gym or workout shoes provide proper and correct cushioning and support for your feet and ankles, helping to avoid injury and sprains.

Will Yeezys Come Out with a Gym or Workout Shoe?

It has been reported that Kanye West is planning on releasing a pair of Yeezys specifically made to be worn and played during a game of basketball.  Although the report came out several years ago, internal discussions have shown that both West and Adidas are keen on providing basketball players with a dedicated pair of Yeezys meant to be played with.

However, no word has been received as to whether or not Kanye West and Adidas are planning on releasing a pair of Yeezys specifically for the gym or working out. And although there is much interest for a pair of Yeezys which can be worn at the gym, no discussions have yet occurred regarding production of a pair.

Best Alternatives to Yeezys for the Gym

While we recommend sticking with Yeezys out of the gym, there are a plethora of well-designed and fashionable gym shoes to replace your Yeezys while at the gym.  Below are a few of our personal favorites:

  • adidas Men’s Lite Racer Adapt 4.0 Trail Running Shoe – one of the simplest designed running shoes, the adidas Men’s Lite Racer Adapt 4.0 bring simplicity to the forefront of the shoe. A simple black-and-white design, the shoe features a strap with the word ‘Adidas’ inscribed upon the front of the shoe. Comfortable and sleek, these are one of our favorite workout shoes of all time.
  • Under Armour Men’s Charged Impulse 2 Running Shoe – Under Armour, in recent years, has made a significant push towards attracting newer users to their shoes. With major NBA sponsorships, Under Armour has made both Nike and Adidas a run for their title. And the Under Armour Men’s Charged Impulse 2 Running Shoe is no exception. With a charged cushioned midsole, these shoes provide superior support and comfort for all your gym needs.