2023 Recommended Shoe List for Marching Musicians
Guide to Shoes for Marching Musicians
For nearly two decades Dr. Tom Freeman, a podiatrist who works with DCI's Marching Arts Safety & Health Project, has created an annual list of recommended footwear designed to stand up to the rigors of participating in a summer season of drum corps and the fall marching band. Freeman says of the 2023 list:
As always for veteran drum corps members, and to acquaint newcomers, we are very selective in the parameters that make up a good shoe for the marching music activity. You would not wear football cleats even though we are on football fields, and as such you should not wear “running shoes” as the lateral stability, forefoot and backward movements of the activity are not reflected in running shoes.
We have found over the years through hundreds of injuries and shoe analysis behind the injuries, along with the changing face of the activity, that the current crop of cross trainers and trail shoes fit us very well. Within these genres of shoes there are some that do what we need of them nicely. Keep in mind that this list of recommendations is a broad general assembly of shoes that still requires each member to find what fits their foot and activity within their corps the best. For example, a larger individual looking for the lightest and most flexible shoe will probably find a mid-season injury in their future.
These shoes need to provide support through a summer of heat, moisture, different surfaces and abuse. The Nike Air Monarch, New Balance 608 and similar have been battle tested and come up as proven choices, albeit uninspiring in design and “coolness.” Some of those great values in the New Balance, Asics and other lines are easily found at popular retail outlets. Go try shoes on even if you are buying online.
When heading out, take this list and never let sales folks who know nothing about our activity lead you astray. Try the shoes on. Asics tend to run a little small while New Balance come in widths from 2a to 4E. Shoes come in shapes and widths with variations in how each manufacturer addresses the shapes of the last on which they are built. Allow a thumb width from the end of the longest toe to the end of the shoe. Find a shoe with the shape of your foot. Use a pen and trace around the outside of the foot. If the shoe has a similar shape as your foot that is a great start. Take your time and get it right.
Once you find a great shoe with a great fit, BUY A SECOND PAIR. Yearly, we hear “I can make it with one pair” from those who show up halfway through the summer tour with an injury and a beat-up pair of shoes. Just don’t do it.
We have long used SPENCO products with our university and recreational athletes. For this activity, the Polysorb Cross Trainer and the Full-Length Orthotic have been proven performers depending on if an athlete needs more cushion or more support. There are lots of gimmicky and “custom” insoles out there, but the SPENCO products have consistently delivered.
Lastly, when it comes to socks, COTTON IS DEAD. Find a good moisture wicking sock and buy a dozen pairs. Adidas Climalite, Nike Dri-Fit and similar names by each manufacturer are the best choice for this activity. All will say “moisture wicking.”
Get good equipment starting from the ground up. Have a GREAT summer.
View full list (link to downloadable PDF)
Recommended Shoe Buying Guide
We may earn a commission when you shop through the Amazon affiliate links below. Proceeds will support the ongoing work of the Marching Arts Safety & Health Project (MASH), including the MASH scholarship presented annually as part of the DCI World Championships. Pricing below may vary by style, color and size.
Additional Resources
2023 Printable List of Recommended Shoe Styles
More from Dr. Freeman on the best shoes for marching music
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