Source: http://cheerleading.about.com/od/cheershoes/l/aabyb_shoes.htm
Note: edited where grammatical errors were spotted.
Whether you're stunting, jumping, competing, practicing or just standing around, your shoes take a lot of abuse and what you put on feet can make a big difference in your comfort and performance. Cheerleading shoes are part of your uniform, but think of them as part of your Cheerleading equipment. Choosing the right Cheerleading shoes should be a top priority.
PriceAs in most things, you get what you pay for. The price you pay for a pair of Cheerleading shoes can make a difference in the quality of the shoes. It can not only affect the comfort, but also the durability and upkeep. Cheerleading shoes range in price from approximately $20 to $70 with the average shoes running from $30-$50. Find a price range that meets your needs and then shop for the best shoe in that range.
ComfortNothing can make you more miserable than a pair of uncomfortable shoes. Look for good cushioning, flexibility, lightweight and breathability in your Cheerleading shoes.
Fit/SizeInsure the fit of your Cheerleading shoes. If possible, try them on before you purchase them or make sure you can return them if they don't fit properly. Some brands fit differently from others, so if you're used to one brand and are making a change to another, ask the company how the new brand runs.
FeaturesYou'll want a shoe that is as lightweight as possible but still offers the most comfort, support and durability. Look for any added features you need for stunting or tumbling such as finger grips or grooves, flexibility, shock absorption, scalloped archways and ankle support. Choose a shoe that meets the needs of your activity. Keep in mind the upkeep of the shoe and if necessary, weatherproofing.
StyleMost cheerleading shoes come in white with added team colour insertions. Check the style you're ordering to be sure they meet your needs in style and colours.
From: Valerie Ninemire.
So, some of us, after this practice, are looking to invest in a pair of cheerleading shoes, so as not to hurt our poor bases. We did shoulder sits and shoulder stands. And shoulder stands can be especially painful. For bases whose flyers wear running shoes, sneakers, etc. The thick rubber soles
dig into their shoulders, and I'm not referring to the hard bone part. I'm talking about the soft part where the neck and the shoulder meet. That is the part that will probably take most of the flyer's weight, and it is sickeningly painful, especially if you wear shoes like mine.
My running shoes, nikes, have sectioned soles. They act almost like studs. And they absolutely kill my shoulder stand bases who have narrower shoulders, or shoulders that slope, forcing me to stand closer to their neck than their shoulders. Cheers to those with broader shoulders. So, as not to kill them before I can do all my stunts, I'm investing in a good pair of cheerleading shoes. My mom was so sweet, she offered to sponsor me when I told her about it. But I won't be tricked, she's just looking to bribe me into getting better results. It was sweet of her, though. If I get those shoes myself, I'll probably take care of them a lot more. But if I do, my new phone will be slightly delayed. How?
Sigh. Swallow my pride and tell her it would be good if she could sponsor my cheerleading shoes?
I'll see what I can do.