Shoes

There's no doubt about it - Insanity is a very high impact workout program.  Shaun T is constantly telling you to "land softly" and "keep your knees soft".  And for good reason.  Injuries and joint pain can easily result if you have improper form, or even if your footwear is insufficient.  I was doing fine in my sneakers until about Week 6 - then I started noticing knee pain.  Since my shoes were very old to begin with, I determined it was time to buy some new sneakers.

Shaun T recommends Cross Trainers, but these are increasingly difficult to find in stores (I went to 4 different stores including specialized footwear and running stores, and could only find a couple options at each store).  So I started researching online.  Many online shoe stores offer free shipping and free returns, which makes this a great option to try out exercise shoes.  I find it really hard to assess a shoe after just trying it on for a couple minutes in a store.  But having it at home to run around, doing some jumps and other exercises that you normally do in your workout, makes it much easier to sense the problems you may have in a shoe.  Many shoes felt great at first, but after some exercises problems became evident such as numbness in the toes or lack of stability in lateral movements.

Thus begins my search that's been ongoing for about a month. I'm a pretty indecisive person, who prefers to research things to death and leave no option unexplored.  While this annoys my husband to no end, in the matter of choosing shoes, I wanted to share my research and findings with you so hopefully you can find the shoe you need a whole lot quicker than I did.

First off, everyone's foot is different, and we also have different preferences while working out.  I've read of many people who prefer to do Insanity barefoot or with minimalist shoes.  Personally, my husband and I both tried it barefoot and I found I couldn't do as much and my feet hurt.  The shoes also gave me extra traction and enabled me to do things like suicide jumps, push-ups, and level 1-3 drills with much more ease.  I work out at home on a carpeted surface (also spent 2 weeks on vacation exercising on wood floors with a thick area rug beneath me) and still find that I need extra cushioning in my shoes.  Others have had great success with EVA foam floor mats, which is a great surface on which to exercise, especially if the floor beneath you is very hard, like a concrete or tile surface.

That being said, here's the shoes my husband and I tried, and how we felt about each one.  My husband and I both have normal-to-high arches, and standard (medium) width feet.
None of the cross trainers I found seemed to be right for Insanity.  It seems that most manufacturers nowadays build cross trainers with stability, but not a lot of cushioning. I read reviews from people who loved their cross trainers, but they were mostly doing Zumba or Jazzercise or Step aeorbics - nothing as demanding as Insanity, which may be why I disliked the trainers I tried.
TESTING:  Included 123-123 and Heisman for lateral movement, High Knees and jogging around the house for forward movement, Power Jumps and Power Squats for impact testing, and Floor Sprints and In/Out Abs for testing traction and comfort in the toe area.  We chose the following shoes to try based on how it would fit our feet, as well as those that provided lateral stability and extra cushioning. After running each through our testing exercises, my husband ended up with the Asics Landreth 7, and my favorite were the Asics Excel33.  Here's our findings on each shoe - hopefully our findings will help you find one that works for you too!

MENS
Adidas Marathon 10 - Running Shoe.  Really liked this shoe, but they were too small and toes rubbed against the top.  So I sent them back and ordered the next size up (up by 1/2).  My toes still rubbed against the top.  I re-read the reviews on Amazon, and turns out I'm not the only one with this problem.  Others recommended to go up at least 1 size, maybe even 1 1/2 sizes.  May try one more time, but I'm kind of tired of sending this shoe back.  Wish my local store carried them.

Features:

• FORMOTION® adapts to the ground to ensure the smoothest, most comfortable run possible.
• Air mesh upper for maximum breathability; ADIPRENE®+ in the forefoot maintains propulsion and efficiency.
• TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity; Nonslip lining for comfort and performance.
• Dual-layer ADILITE™/respoEVA anti-microbial sockliner for great step-in and motion comfort.
• ADIWEAR™ outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability.
• Weighs 10.2oz

New Balance 1012 -  Cross Trainer built for cushioning. This was the heaviest shoe of all that I tried, and it showed. While I may not have noticed the difference if this were the only shoe I was trying, it felt noticeably heavier trying on immediately after the other shoes.  The cushioning was nice, and I considered keeping them as just a good general sneaker, but they just felt sort of clunky when trying to do Insanity moves in them.

Features:

• ACTEVA Midsole cushions and resists compression set - 12% lighter than standard foam.
• N-ERGY in the midsole provides NB's most advanced shock absorption and cushioning.
• Ndurance rubber compound for maximum outsole durability.
• ENCAP midsole technology provides support and maximum durability.
• External heel counter for rearfoot stability
• Weighs 13 oz

Nike Trainer 1.3 Max - I could tell this was a great shoe, but it just didn't fit me well.  When comparing side by side with the Asics, it simply didn't hug my foot the same way.  They were the most expensive shoe I tried, so this was strike 2.  Plus, I felt like this particular design made me a walking Nike advertisement. Strike 3.

Asics Excel33 - Running Shoe. Great shoe, but there was slightly less support for my high arches.  I noticed my heel slipped a little during movement.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• SpEVA Midsole Material improves bounce-back characteristics and midsole durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle .
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity. 
• Propulsion Trusstic mimics connective tissue in the foot by creating tension as foot enters propulsion stage.
• Weighs 9.9 oz

Asics Gel Neo33 - Running Shoe. Toe was a little too close to edge of shoe, and overall I just liked another shoe better.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• DuoMax sport-specific dual-density midsole Support System to enhance support and stability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Weighs 10.2 oz

Asics GEL-DS Trainer 17 - Listed as a Running Shoe built for speed and training.  Love this shoe.  The fit is amazing.  Cushioning is perfect for Insanity, and my foot is very stable throughout all the lateral movements.  My only gripe is the color.  The Amazon.com picture shows a sky blue color, but the picture on the Asics site shows the correct coloring.  It's just a tad too bright for my taste.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• DuraSponge Outsole enhances cushioning and durability in the forefoot.
• Wet Grip Outsole designed to enhance traction even on wet surfaces.
• Biomorphic Fit offers stretch material on the upper to reduce buckling and potential irritation.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• DuoMax sport-specific dual-density midsole Support System to enhance support and stability.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Clutch Collar System offers a uniquely secure fit.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Propulsion Trusstic mimics connective tissue in the foot by creating tension as foot enters propulsion stage.
• Space Trusstic System stabilizes the midfoot and creates a pocket between the Trusstic System device and the midsole, allowing for controlled midsole deformation and more efficient foot function.
• Weighs 10.4 oz

Asics GEL-Landreth 7 - Listed as a Running Shoe built for speed and training.  This is very similar to the DS-17.  I decided to try it because I just really didn't like the color of the DS-17s, and this one came in a red/grey combo.  I was surprised when I opened the box and saw the asymmetrical lacing design - it really improved the fit of the shoe, which I didn't think was possible.  This shoe should be high up on anyone's list for consideration.  Amazing cushioning, support through lateral movements, fits like a dream.  THIS is my new shoe!!

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• DuraSponge Outsole enhances cushioning and durability in the forefoot.
• Asymmetrical Lacing Design reduces potential for irritation and provides improved comfort and fit.
• Discrete Eyelets disburse lace tension, creating a customized fitting environment and enhanced upper comfort.
• Biomorphic Fit offers stretch material on the upper to reduce buckling and potential irritation.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Space Trusstic System stabilizes the midfoot and creates a pocket between the Trusstic System device and the midsole, allowing for controlled midsole deformation and more efficient foot function.
• Weighs 11 oz

Asics Fortitude 5 - Maximum Support Running Shoe.  I honestly can't decide between these and the Landreth 7.  Apparently, this shoe is designed for large-framed runners with a neutral gait, and features a larger toe box and firmer midsole.  While I am not a large-framed runner, the extra room around the toes is much appreciated.  I found it slightly less comfortable during Insanity (toes would get pushed forward during some of the In/Out moves), but ended up keeping the shoes as my new go-to sneaker for work and for long outings with my family.

Features:

• Larger toe box
• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• DuraSponge Outsole enhances cushioning and durability in the forefoot.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Space Trusstic System stabilizes the midfoot and creates a pocket between the Trusstic System device and the midsole, allowing for controlled midsole deformation and more efficient foot function.
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity.
• Weighs 11.4 oz

WOMENS
I tried many other shoes not listed here.  I cannot remember the names of them because there were boxes upon boxes at about 5 different specialty shoe stores.  Some were vetoed due to lack of arch support, but I have fairly high arches, so they might be perfectly acceptable shoes for someone else - again, these are MY findings.  I tried a few more Asics not listed, Saucony, Ryka, and Reebok.

New Balance 871 - Cross Trainers built for stability.  New Balance website says they are perfect for fitness boot camps and other aerobics and training. Named "Best for Fitness Classes" by Shape magazine.  I found them kind of difficult to lace, and the cushioning was just plain weird.  It offered some nice heel and midsole cushioning, but almost nothing in the forefoot, so it felt like your foot was on a constant downhill slope.  I mean, clearly many people must like this shoe, but I don't think it has the right cushioning for Insanity.

Features:

• N-ERGY in the midsole provides NB's most advanced shock absorption and cushioning.
• Ndurance rubber compound for maximum outsole durability.
• Aggressive lugged outsole gives maximum traction for off-road activities and quick side-to-side movements.
• ACTEVA Midsole cushions and resists compression set - 12% lighter than standard foam.
• Sure Lace secure shoe laces provide added midfoot support and keep the shoe snug around the foot.
• ABZORB cushioning in the midfoot provides exceptional shock absorption.
• Weighs 8.5 oz
  

New Balance 1211 - Cross Trainer built for stability.   Although boasting superior cushioning, I found they paled in comparison to the cushioning support of the Asics, especially in the forefoot.  They also felt a little heavy on my feet with a clunky outsole that kind of dragged me down when I attempted some Insanity moves.
 
Features:

• ACTEVA LITE premium lightweight midsole provides optimal resistance to compression set - 24% lighter than standard foam.
• LockDown Liner is integrated into lacing to provide a custom fit without smothering your foot.
• STABILITY WEB delivers midfoot support and reduces the weight of the shoe.  Includes a medial post on the inside edge of the shoe to help prevent overpronation.
• ABZORB cushioning in the midfoot provides exceptional shock absorption.
• Ndurance rubber compound for maximum outsole durability.
• N-ERGY in the midsole provides NB's most advanced shock absorption and cushioning.
• Full EVA strobel board for all-day comfort.
• Weighs 9.8 oz

Asics Gel Intensity 2 - Cross Trainers, built with a specific outsole designed to offer more traction on court-like surfaces.  I loved the cushioning in these, and they held my foot very securely.  This was one of those shoes that felt great at first, but I noticed problems when I attempted my first Insanity workout in them.  The first problem is the Clutch Collar System, which is actually a separate piece that wraps around your heel.  While this works wonders to hold your heel in place, I found that where the piece ended often rubbed uncomfortably against my foot during some of the movements.  Also, I noticed numbness in my toes about halfway through my workout.  Tried them again another day, tying them looser nearest the toes, but this didn't alleviate the problem.  Hopefully others will have better luck with these - I loved the black color, and the cushioning was so awesome I was sad to send them back.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• Clutch Collar System offers an Endoskelatal collar the compliments the exoskelatal heel counter for a uniquely secure fit.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity.  Weighs 10.2 oz

Asics Gel Uptempo - Cross Trainers, advertised as perfect for interval training and plyometric drills.  Sounds perfect, right?  I tried them on and put them right back in the box.  Just plain uncomfortable.

Features:

• Forefoot Outsole Wrap for lateral stability.
• California Slip Lasting for stability and comfort.
• Solid Rubber Outsole provides enhanced durability and traction.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity. 
• Weighs 9.3 oz

Asics Gel Resolution 4 - Also comes in Orange/Grey.  Tennis Shoe. After some discouragement with the cross trainers, I thought, "Hey!  Tennis requires lateral stability and flexibility for movement, plus shock absorption.  Maybe tennis shoes will work!"  Decided to try these.  They hold the foot really nicely, and the arch support is very pronounced and comfortable.  But I noticed some slight slippage inside on lateral movements.  Also, the cushioning isn't as thick as most of the others.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• Flexion Fit upper provides form fitting comfort without sacrificing support.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity. 
• Weighs 11.2 oz

Asics Gel Neo33 - Running Shoe.  This shoe is kind of hard to tighten the laces, but I also found that it fits so perfectly you don't need to.  It seems to conform to my foot perfectly.  I really love the way they feel.  Wonderful cushioning all around, and the arch support is amazing.  Adequate stabilization during lateral movements, especially for a soft shoe like this.  I would have stopped my search right here, but my toe is a little close to the edge.  It doesn't rub and it hasn't bothered me during my trial exercises around the house, but I found the next size up to be a better fit.  I recommend trying these, and compare with the Asics Excel33, listed next.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• DuoMax sport-specific dual-density midsole Support System to enhance support and stability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Weighs 8.5 oz

Asics Gel Excel33 - Running Shoe.  These are very lightweight.  Fit very similarly to the Neo33.  Great shoe, and really hard to decide which one I preferred: Neo33 or Excel33.  The Excel seems to have slightly better padding and a little bit bigger toe box, but I also experience some numbness in the toes.  This seems to be a constant problem in shoes with extra cushioning.  Is it possible to have too much padding?  I've decided to keep these, since I can live with occasional numbness in the toes in exchange for absolutely no heel, arch, shin, or knee pain.
Update:  After doing Insanity with these for a couple weeks, the toe numbness has completely gone away.  So perhaps all they needed was a bit of a break-in period.  Very happy with these shoes.

Features:

• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• SpEVA Midsole Material improves bounce-back characteristics and midsole durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Impact Guidance System to enhance foot's natural gait from heal strike to toe off.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle .
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity.
• Propulsion Trusstic mimics connective tissue in the foot by creating tension as foot enters propulsion stage.
• Weighs 7.9 oz

Asics Fortitude 5 - Maximum Support Running Shoe.  Apparently, this shoe is designed for large-framed runners with a neutral gait, and features a larger toe box and firmer midsole.  While I am not a large-framed runner, the extra room around the toes reminded me very much of my former sneakers.  I have often appreciated having more room around the toes during long days at Theme Parks, but wished my sneakers had more cushioning.  This was literally the shoe I had dreamed of.  However, after trying some Insanity moves, I noticed my toes would get pushed forward during moves such as In/Out Abs.  Also, they sit higher up on the ankle, which for me is a little too high (I have fairly small feet).  They held my heel like no other shoe - no movement whatsoever.  But the arch support and cushioning to me weren't as good as the Excel33's, and after just jogging around the house in them, they were rubbing uncomfortably on my ankles.  They just didn't work for me.

Features:

• Larger toe box
• Asics High Abrasion Rubber on the outsole for durability.
• DuraSponge Outsole enhances cushioning and durability in the forefoot.
• ComforDry sockliner.
• Solyte Midsole Material offers a light weight midsole compound for enhanced cushioning and durability.
• SpEVA Midsole Material improves bounce-back characteristics and midsole durability.
• Guidance Line for enhanced gait efficiency.
• Personalized Heel Fit with 2 layers of memory foam to mold to your heel.
• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
• Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity. 
• Weighs 9.6 oz

Nike Lunar Hyperworkout
After trying on numerous Nikes and being a bit disappointed, these were a pleasant surprise.  It conformed to my foot beautifully, but also offered a nice amount of lateral support.  It felt like I was wearing a sock that somehow offered support and cushioning for my feet.  I don't particularly care for how the top mesh on the shoe rests on my toes, but it's not tight (I just prefer a little more wiggle room).  I experienced no numbing in my toes whatsoever, which says a lot because most other shoes seem to cause this.  I think this is a great shoe for those who prefer a more minimalist-type.  The traction on the bottom of the shoe doesn't really lend this to being an all-purpose sneaker, so if you're also looking for something you can wear to the park with your kids, you may wish to look elsewhere.  But nice for the gym.

Features:

• Lunarlon midsole for soft yet responsive, ultra-plush yet lightweight cushioning. For added comfort, a cushioned pod is located at the back of the heel.
• Flywire technology for an adaptive, supportive fit.  These ultra-lightweight dynamic cables tighten during multi-directional movements and sudden bursts, enhancing support and lockdown when you need it.
• Outsole flex grooves for stable multidirectional movement
• Neoprene-inspired inner sleeve acts as a base layer, conforming to the foot for lightweight comfort and support.
• Allover traction pattern allows for multidirectional movement

Nike Air Pegasus +28
Running Shoe.  These were awesome.  Great cushioning, great feel to the shoe, held my foot in place, but still nice room in the toe box.  However, these shoes tend to run about a half size small.  For me, my normal shoe size was too small (toes right at the top), but the next size up was too big and my foot was not held securely in the shoe.  Sigh.  I would highly recommend trying these out for Insanity to see if they will work for your feet, but sad to say they didn't work for me.

Features:
With a ventilated mesh upper and impact-resistant midsole, the Nike Air Pegasus+ 29 Women's Running Shoe delivers responsiveness and breathability over any distance. Low-profile Nike Zoom unit and a flexible outsole offer impact protection and a more natural ride that's ideal for runners with a neutral gait.

• Mesh and synthetic upper for lightweight ventilation and support
• Full-length Cushlon midsole with Nike Zoom unit in the heel for low-profile, responsive cushioning
• Rubber Waffle outsole for durability and traction
• Flex grooves for enhanced flexibility

Nike Lunar Allways+ TR
Training Shoe.  These sounded great on paper.  I wanted to like this shoe, but it just didn't work.  The cushioning is nice, but it didn't feel very secure in lateral movements like 123-123.  In my normal size, my toe felt crammed vertically in the toe box (that is, my toes were not too close to the top, but I felt the mesh resting on my toes, which was distracting and uncomfortable).  I tried it in the next size up, but they were too big and held my foot even less securely.  I personally wouldn't recommend these for Insanity.

Features:

• Ventilated upper for improved breathability.
• Lunarlon cushioning system provides lightweight yet springy cushioning and responsive shock absorption for exceptional comfort and demanding side-to-side movements.
• Outsole flex grooves for multidirectional movement and flexibility.
• Rubber pods at the heel and forefoot for traction where it's needed most.
•  No-sew upper that virtually eliminates seams for comfort and enhanced flexibility. Overlays at the midfoot are integrated with the lacing system for a customized fit that helps keep the foot locked in place.
• Full inner sleeve provides reduced lace pressure, ventilation and a snug fit and foam in the collar lends a comfortable fit around the ankle.
• OrthoLite™ foam sockliner molds to the shape of the foot for a custom fit and great support.

Nike Lunarglide +4
I recommend going up a size in these.  I really, really liked these shoes.  Perfect blend of cushioning, stability, and ease of movement.  Perfect amount of wiggle room for the toes but not an excessively large toe box.  The tongue is extremely comfortable.  These laced like a dream, and held my feet securely.  The inner structure of the shoe took some getting used to.  At first, it felt like the arches were hitting too far back, between my arch and my heel.  I thought maybe it was just my imagination, so took them for a test workout of Insanity.  Seemed fine and my feet felt great at the end of the workout.  The arch support is not as noticeable as in the Asics Excel 33, which is my favorite shoe so far, but I have slightly high arches, so they might be perfect for someone with normal arches.  I highly recommend giving these a try.  I almost kept them as a 2nd pair because they were just that comfortable.

Features:

• Lunarlon cushioning for an incredibly soft and springy ride.
• Ultra-light Flywire threads cradle the foot for an adaptive, personalized, glove-like fit.
• Dynamic Support in the midsole provides just the stability you need without stiffness.
• Floating heel-support clip that moves with you and helps keep the back of the foot from rolling inward or outward upon landing to moderate excessive pronation.
•  Mesh upper for breathability.
• Natural-motion-inspired flex grooves allow for increased forefoot flexibility.
• Weight: 8.2 ounces (women's size 8)

Nike Zoom Elite
Running shoe.  True to size.  Nice stability, especially in lateral movements.  Roomy toe box - perfect blend of wiggle room without feeling too big or unstable.  These shoes provide a nice, firm grasp on the foot, with nice stability and adequate cushioning for high-impact moves.  Cons:  Very difficult to lace - the laces didn't want to budge at all through the loops, which was kind of irritating.  The arches are almost too high?  I felt some pain in my arches during trial exercises. 

Features:

• Mesh upper for breathability with strategically placed overlays for support.
• Nike Zoom unit in the forefoot for low-profile, responsive cushioning.
• Waffle pattern at the outsole for traction on a variety of surfaces.
• Deep flex grooves along the length and width of the outsole for a smooth ride.
• Thin yet springy Nike Zoom unit in the forefoot helps provide cushioning while absorbing impact. The Cushlon crash pad runs three-quarters the length of the midsole and helps absorb shock.
• Sockliner at interior to mold to the shape of the foot for a custom fit.
• Durable rubber outsole for cushioning and a more efficient stride.

Ryka Studio Flex Mid
I tried these on since some people in my Step class really like Ryka, and figured if they didn't work for Insanity I might be able to make this my gym shoe.  They were HUGE!  My ankle was held securely merely because of the height of the shoe, but the rest of my foot was just swimming in these.  They also seemed terribly inflexible.  I tried floor sprints in these and the shoe just did not want to bend with any comfort.  Perhaps that improves once breaking them in, but I wasn't in love with these to try that.

Features:

• Combination upper of synthetic, mesh, and high density foam.
• Removable molded Nitracel® footbed with EVA strobel board.
• Lightweight compression EVA with hidden pressed N-Gage® in heel.
• Nitracel® injected forefoot and sleek Skeletal Support Shank offers responsive support.
• Solid rubber outsole with C2 heel cushioning and high-functioning outsole with forefoot flex grooves offers serious grip and flexibility.
• Weighs 9 oz (in a size 6.5)

Ryka Revive 2
This was a surprisingly decent shoe.  There's lots of room in the toe box, which I love.  It held my foot very securely, and was one of the best shoes I've tried for lateral movements.  My one gripe is the cushioning is kind of lean for Insanity, and it didn't seem like there was much forefoot cushioning at all.  I tried using a cross-trainer separate insole, but that insole was so thick it pushed my foot so high up the shoe no longer fit nicely.  I'd say with the right insole, I would totally consider these shoes for Insanity and other high-movement aerobics, especially as a lower-cost alternative to some of the Asics and Nike shoes.

Features:

• A running shoe designed for the neutral to under-pronator who requires a combination of enhanced cushioning and support.
• Highly breathable air mesh upper for a cool, comfortable environment.
• Leather overlays supply structural support.
• Reflective trim allows you to remain visible in low light conditions.
• Plush tongue and collar for added comfort.
• Ortholite insole delivers ultra-lightweight support.
• Lightweight molded EVA midsole with N2 DM™ cushioning technology in the heel for optimal energy return and impact protection.
• S.G.S (Skeletal Guidance Shank) supplies midfoot support during heel strike to toe-off phases, while keeping the shoes lightweight.
• Tri-piece rubber outsole is designed with balanced traction and forefoot flex grooves to promote a more natural range of motion.
• Weighs 9 oz (using size 8.5)

Avia 5792 (also called CC-Tech)
Nice roomy toe box.  Nice cushioning - the design of the sole of the shoe really lends itself to providing additional cushioning against the high impact movements in Insanity.  However, these were just "ok" in my opinion for lateral movements.  Also, the bottom of the lace structure dug into my toes whenever I bent my foot (such as when doing floor sprints or In/Out Abs).

Features:

• A running shoe built for the neutral to under-pronator who requires enhanced cushioning.
• Three layers of air mesh and synthetic uppers.
• Plush tongue and collar for added comfort.
• Soft textile lining offers a great step-in feel.
• Foam insole for light underfoot support.
• Full-length Compression Cushioning Technology (CC TECH) provides lightweight and flexible cushioning.
• Suspension bridge delivers an exceptionally cushioned and stable ride.
• Three-part carbon rubber outsole supplies flexible durability.
• Flex grooves allow for a greater range of motion.
• Weighs 9 oz (using size 7.5)