When it’s time to head for the gym it’s important to have the best workout shoes ready to go inside your gym bag. The wrong shoes for your workout routine could not only detract from the efficiency of your workout and possibly cause you to enjoy it less, and consequently workout less—it can also potentially cause injury. An injury could put your workout routine on hold indefinitely. Just as you’d choose the appropriate shoes for work—such as comfortable shoes for a floor nurse, or steel-toed boots for construction work—it’s critical to choose the best workout shoes for your trip to the gym.

Unlike those whose fitness routine is highly specified, such as a jogger, trail-runner, or weight-trainer, workout shoes must be versatile enough to allow for multiple types of foot movements. A trip to the gym could easily involve various workout activities including cardio workout routines, treadmill, strength training, and more.

According to experts, the shoes you choose could have a dramatic impact on how you workout—and not only on your feet. The positioning of your feet during any exercise activity can dramatically influence alignment in other parts of your body. Using the wrong shoes could cause stress or injury not only to your feet, but also to ankles, knees, hips and back.

Different parts of your workout require very different foot movements. Running on a treadmill for example involves impact to the ball and heel of the foot in a forward running motion, while Pilates requires sideways movement and yoga requires balance and stability. Strength training and lifting requires a stable shoe base with limited inner shoe movement and firm, flat grip on the ground.

In order to be able to engage in multiple workout activities, the best workout shoes must be versatile enough to provide support for many different foot motions.

One of the best workout shoes available today is from the name you trust most in athletic shoes. The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer shoe is versatile enough for running, weightlifting, or any indoor or outdoor training activity. The leather upper includes overlays for increased stability and support, as well as perforated vents to allow airflow and breathability. The mesh fabric tongue is lightweight and adds to the breathable nature of this athletic shoe.

The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer features a springy rubber sole to add an energetic response to any workout activity, with traction that assures natural motion and exceptional grip over any surface texture. Your training will be more comfortable with a full shoe-length footbed of encapsulated air-sole technology for cushiony support for the entire foot. A foam phylon is added at the midsole point for ideal arch support. The lace-up closure further allows flexibility and comfort for any foot shape.

The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer contains a soft inner fabric lining to reduce chafing and irritation during movement. The sole is designed with flex grooves to ensure flexibility in the forefoot to aid in grip and responsiveness during all varieties of workout activities.

The Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer shoes are one of the best workout shoes and are also great for everyday use, especially for those who work on their feet. They are offered in five color combinations and in a full range of sizes from 6 to 15 X-Wide.

Key Features
  • Leather and synthetic cross trainer
  • Rubber sole
  • Perforated leather uppers to allow breathability
  • Foam midsole support
  • Full length air-sole comfort cushions
  • Durable rubber outsole with superior traction
Specifications
  • Size Range: 6 to 15 X-wide
  • Notable Materials: Leather, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 5
  • Brand: Nike
Pros
  • Lightweight shoe with mesh tongue
  • Traction suitable for multiple surfaces
  • Heel pull tab for easy on and off
Cons
  • Shoes may squeak

One of the best workout shoes for men today, is from Brooks, a name you trust in athletic shoes. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe provides ideal foot support for various workout activities with balanced cushioning and stability. The unique Brooks BioMoGo DNA Loft Crash Pad cushion is engineered to provide soft, cushioned support for running, walking, weight lifting, jumping rope, and other workout and cross training activities. The patented cushioning system provides the ideal amount of softness, comfort, and support without losing responsive reaction.

Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS Running Shoe is lightweight in spite of the extra cushioning, with a breathable engineered mesh fabric, and an attractive 3D fit print upper designed to provide structure and support with a more streamlined appearance.

The Guiderail holistic inner support system is designed to limit inner movement in the shoe, allowing for more secure support with less slippage and less chance of injury to other parts of the body such as ankles and knees during walking, running, or other athletic activities. They also reduce pain and increase stability during energetic workout routines or lifting.

The outsole is of durable rubber with a flawless traction grip for any surface conditions both indoors and outside. The tough, responsive treads resist wear for long-lasting durability.

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe is offered in ten colors and the entire range of sizes from size 7 to size 15 X-Wide, making this one of the best workout shoes for those who want extra cushioned support, a modernized fit, and a wide range of color-choice options in a versatile shoe for many activities.

Key Features
  • Ideal for arch support for all foot types
  • Guiderail inner support limits foot movement in the shoe
  • Superior insole DNA loft cushioning system
  • Breathable engineered mesh upper
  • Minimalist, streamlined appearance
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7 to 15
  • Notable Materials: Synthetic mesh fabric, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 9
  • Brand: Brooks
Pros
  • Guiderail inner support keeps foot stable during workout activities with multiple foot actions
  • Lightweight shoe with responsive and flexible outsole
  • Breathable mesh upper prevents sweating and moisture during vigorous workouts
  • Stable soles work well for weight lifting base
Cons
  • Toe box is a little narrow for some users
  • Inner support makes these less flexible for running, but works well for training and workouts

One of the best workout shoes that can be worn for multiple workout activities or for comfortable and supportive everyday wear is Puma Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer shoe. It has a man-made upper of synthetic leather that is available in three different attractive color combinations. An ecoOrtholite sockliner insures interior support and comfort while the EVA foam heel absorbs impact. A midsole saddle provides arch support and adds stability for workout activities such as weight lifting. The fabric lining and padded footbed add comfort while the lace-up closure on the upper allows the shoe to be flexible and to easily adapt to individual foot shape with a snug fit.

The Puma Women’s Tazon 6 WNs FM Cross-Trainer Shoe has a springy rubber outsole to add lift and energy for many workout activities. The lightweight design will not add excess weight to your workout routine, while the highly stable platform keeps feet from rolling or moving sideways, to prevent injury during workout routines. This is especially helpful for those whose feet roll outward while walking, known as over-supination, or roll inward, which is over-pronation.

The Puma Women’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer shoe is idea for the gym and can be worn for multiple workout activities, making mid-training shoe changing unnecessary. They are available in a wide range of sizes from 5 to size 11 wide. Three color choices include black and purple, black and pink and Puma white and purple. The Puma logo is visible.

These shoes are a good choice for any workout activity or for daily use, making them the best workout shoe for those who appreciate a versatile shoe for multiple purposes.

Key Features
  • Synthetic leather cross-trainer workout shoe for women
  • Springy rubber sole
  • Breathable sockliner
  • Designed for stability
  • Midfoot saddle support
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5.5 to 11 wide
  • Notable Materials: Synthetic leather
  • Number of Colors: 3
  • Brand: Puma
Pros
  • Works for indoor and outdoor training
  • Offers a stable platform for weight lifting
  • Streamlined silhouette
  • EVA foam heel for shock absorbing
Cons
  • Toe box is narrow
  • Limited breathability may result in hot feet

One of the best workout shoes for women who incorporate dancing or pilates into their workout routine is the Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers. Not only are they a great workout shoe, they are also ideal for those who are on their feet all day, such as nurses or those in the service industry. The knit mesh fabric is attractive as well as breathable with a soft, sock-like texture for workout or everyday comfort. They slip-on easily without the bother of ties or velcro closures.

The Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers has a boxed toe for protection during toe stands, making it the best workout shoes for dancers, or any dance-related exercise routine, as well as for running, speed-walking, lifting, and other activities. The slip-on style offers comfort and ease while walking, standing, working, or working out. The outsole has air cushioning technology for lightweight support with perforations for breathability.

The Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers have a durable rubber outsole with air cushioning and non-slip, skid-proof traction that works on all surface types for any activity. The wide toe box allows comfort and roominess for the entire toe area to prevent rubbing, chafing, or irritation.

The Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes are comfortable, supportive, and stylish, as well as breathable. They come in a wide variety of colors, covering the entire rainbow spectrum so there is a pair to suit any style, or you can purchase multiple colors for various outfits or looks. They are offered in a wide range of sizes from 5.5 to 11. Winter styles are also offered with a faux fur shoe collar that’s both warm and attractive.

The lightweight support, air-cushioned outsoles, and cute and comfortable sock-like uppers make the Slow Man Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers one of the best workout shoes for women.

Key Features
  • Knit, mesh slip-on shoe
  • Air-cushioned outsole
  • Durable, wear resistant rubber, non-skid soles
  • Boxed toe feature
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5.5 to 11
  • Notable Materials: Mesh knit fabric, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 24
  • Brand: Slow Man
Pros
  • Non-skid rubber soles
  • Easy, slip-on style
  • Boxed toe for toe-stand protection
  • Lightweight design with air cushioned sole for impact absorption
Cons
  • Sizes run large
  • Extra fabric at the toes may pucker

One of the best workout shoes is the one that goes back to the basics. The classic Reebok Men’s Workout Plus Sneaker takes us back to the basics that made Reebok a household name with the return of the design originally released in 1987 but ahead of its time in style, support, and comfort.

The Reebok Men’s Workout Plus Sneaker features a classic low-cut shoe collar design for more freedom of motion, as well as the traditional Reebok H-strap side detailing for adjustable side support to allow or restrict side movement within the shoe. The leather upper features the soft, supple, full grain leather that makes Reebok shoes unique, while the perforated toe box allows for air flow and breathability. This classic shoe is stylish and comfortable, and is available in a variety of colors to suit any personal style preference. Sizes are fully ranged from a small size 3.5 to 15.

The Reebok Men’s Workout Plus Sneaker features an EVA memory foam midsole for shock absorption and a durable rubber outsole designed to withstand high abrasion and provide traction for a wide variety of training, athletic, or workout activities. The high-abrasion rubber gives just the right amount of springy, energetic response while maintaining grip and allowing for flexibility of motion.

The Reebok Men’s Workout Plus Sneaker focuses on comfort with the classic minimalistic design that made this model appropriate not only for athletic activities by for everyday use to offer support and comfort. These features make this classic shoe one of the best workout shoes of both yesterday and today.

Key Features
  • Leather uppers with minimal styling and low cut design
  • Rubber soles
  • EVA memory foam midsole for shock absorption
  • Reeboks iconic H-strap side details
Specifications
  • Size Range: 3.5 to 15
  • Notable Materials: Leather, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 24
  • Brand: Reebok
Pros
  • Perforated toe box for air-flow
  • Memory foam cushioning for shock absorption
  • Great shoe for multiple workout activities or everyday use
Cons
  • Sizes run small and narrow

One of the best workout shoes for versatile wear for multiple workout activities is the New Balance Women’s 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer. This shoe comes from the name we’ve trusted in athletic shoes since 1908. New Balance has always led the way in supportive shoes for athletic activities.

The New Balance Women’s 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer provides superior shock absorption in the midfoot area of the footbed with unique ABZORB cushioning. A polyurethane insert is added for all day cushioned comfort, or support through workout activities and cross training. Injection molded EVA foam allows the cushioned footbed to adapt and mold to each individual foot shape to provide a comfortable fit and support where you need it. The internal shank helps to keep the foot in proper position, relieving foot pain and preventing injuries.

The New Balance Women’s 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer has a supple leather upper that is available in five color combinations and a wide variety of sizes from 5 to 12 wide. The shoe collar is constructed of dual density foam for comfort and to prevent chafing and irritation with workout motion or all day wear.

The New Balance Women’s 608v5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer has a resilient rubber sole that’s durable, while providing superior traction for multiple surface textures, and allowing flexibility. The shoe is responsive and flexible, making it the best workout shoe for multiple training activities or for comfortable and supportive daily wear.

Key Features
  • Leather upper with perforated holes for air flow
  • Dual density foam in shoe collar
  • Molded EVA foam cushioning
  • PU insert
  • Durable rubber soles
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5 to 12 wide
  • Notable Materials: Leather, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 5
  • Brand: New Balance
Pros
  • Super flexible for responsive grip
  • Roomy toe box
  • Memory foam heel pad cushioning
  • Available in three widths
Cons
  • Sizing changes have caused confusion: sizes run smaller than previously

One of the best workout shoes for women who enjoy yoga and pilates are the Tiosebon Women’s Walking Sock Shoes Lightweight Slip-on Breathable Yoga Sneakers. These super cute and comfortable shoes are attractive enough for daily wear as well as for the yoga studio or gym. The super-stretchy and comfortable uppers are constructed of lightweight, breathable, knit mesh and are available in 21 colors. There is a pair to suit any look or style preference from neutral to bold color choices.

Tiosebon Women’s Walking Sock Shoes are constructed in a relaxed, slip-on style with handy heel pull tabs to easily slip on and off. The stretchy knitted uppers include a soft and comfortable low heel collar and may be worn with or without socks. The mesh fabric is highly breathable to prevent sweating and moisture. The toe box is soft, roomy, and comfortable and the uniquely flexible and lightweight shoe is designed to move and flex along with the foot, making them ideal for yoga, pilates, and other workout activities, including jogging.

Tiosebon Women’s Walking Sock Shoes are also a great choice for tennis playing as well as for walking, dance, weight-lifting, and other workout routines. Their attractive style and unique look also make them attractive and appropriate for everyday use such as at work or while shopping. The memory foam insoles are ideal for those who work all day on their feet and need comfortable support. The springy rubber outsoles have versatile traction to prevent slipping and to promote a responsive feel and grip on multiple surface types, including indoor gym surfaces and outdoor terrain for walking or shopping.

The attractive appearance, comfortably stretchy upper and versatile and flexible outsoles make Tiosebon Women’s Walking Sock Shoes Lightweight, Slip-on Breathable Yoga Sneakers one of the best workout shoe choices for women today.

Key Features
  • Simple, attractively designed slip-on sneaker
  • Ultra-light rubber sole
  • Knitted sock-like fabric upper
  • Versatile enough for yoga and multiple workout activities
  • Memory foam insole for optimal buffering between foot and ground
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5 to 13
  • Notable Materials: Knit fabric mesh, lightweight rubber
  • Number of Colors: 21
  • Brand: Tiosebon
Pros
  • Soft and flexible for yoga, pilates, and multiple workout activities
  • Easy, slip on style with pull tabs
  • Cute and functional for daily use as well as for workouts
  • Many seasonal colors available for year round enjoyment
Cons
  • Sizes run small

One of the best workout shoes for those who prefer a tough, durable shoe that is versatile enough for any man’s training activities are the NOBULL Men’s Training Shoes. These shoes are the toughest in the business with a no-nonsense vented fabric upper made with unique “Super-fabric” guard plates added to a flexible mesh base for all around protection. The upper is constructed with a single piece of fabric to avoid uncomfortable seams. NOBULL adds superior support from inner guards and an outsole lug pattern that is suitable for multiple workout surfaces.

NOBULL Men’s Training Shoes are durable and versatile enough for any activity and provides a flat heel for steadiness in weight training. It is also supportive enough for running, walking, other rigorous workout routines such as cross fit training. The toe box is roomy and comfortable, with seamless construction to prevent rubbing or chafing. The sole is tough enough to be durable and provide surface traction while remaining flexible and responsive on any surface.

NOBULL Men’s Training Shoes have a reflective logo on the side to make them safer for running and are light enough in construction to make them a good running shoe as well as a trainer. It is also vegan friendly, with no leather or wool in the upper or insole construction.

NOBULL is a rapidly growing brand in popularity due to their no-frills, minimalistic approach to shoe construction. This approach has resulted in the NOBULL Men’s Training Shoe for both functional fitness and recreational athletes, or simply for those looking for a comfortable, understated look and feel in an athletic shoe.

NOBULL Men’s Training Shoes are one of the best workout shoes of today.

Key Features
  • Lightweight and breathable upper
  • Flexible shoe that moves with you
  • Super fabric guard plates for protections
  • Outsole traction designed for multiple surfaces
Specifications
  • Size Range: 9 to 15
  • Notable Materials: High carbon rubber, fabric
  • Number of Colors: 13
  • Brand: NOBULL
Pros
  • One-piece construction for seamless comfort
  • Flexible upper adjust to foot shape and doesn't restrict motion
Cons
  • Insole may slide during use
  • Not as much arch support as typical training shoes

One of the best workout shoes are Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe. These are performance running sneakers that are attractive enough for everyday use as well as for multiple workout activities. The plush, memory foam sockliner and cloudfoam cushioning through the midsole delivers comfort and support, as well as versatility.

Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe features a comfortable stretch upper of breathable mesh and a springy rubber sole with the superior responsiveness that makes Adidas a name you trust in athletic shoes.

With Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe, the memory foam sockliner and cloudfoam cushioning conform to every foot shape, resulting in individualized comfort for every foot type and for multiple activities including lifting, jump rope, treadmill running, pilates, yoga, and more.

These shoes are cute and sporty, in a slip-on design with the trademark three side-strips and pull-tab top and heel, as well as stretch-laces for foot-hugging comfort. The soles are strong and stable enough for a good weight lifting base. The toe box is roomy and comfortable, with a female-inspired fit. They are available in 25 colors so you can find your ideal pair, or choose several colors. Sizes offered are size 5 through 11, so you can find your perfect fit.

Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe looks great with jeans, leggings, shorts, or yoga pants and can be worn for running, walking, gym activities, or for everyday wear. The superior comfort and cute design make these one of the best shoes workout shoes, or simply great shoes for those who seek comfort in a cute pair of athletic-style sneakers.

Key Features
  • Running and workout shoes with stretchy mesh upper
  • Breathable mesh for airflow
  • Memory foam sockliner for individualized comfort
  • Contains unique cloudfoam cushioning arch support
Specifications
  • Size Range: 5 to 11
  • Notable Materials: Mesh fabric, rubber
  • Number of Colors: 25
  • Brand: Adidas
Pros
  • Low ankle support makes these ideal for multiple workout activities
  • Heel pull tabs for easy on and off
  • Springy rubber sole for energetic response
  • Cute enough to wear daily as well as for workouts
Cons
  • Sizes run small
  • Low-level cushioning makes these ideal for workout activities, but no for long distance running

One of the best workout shoes for men are the Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes. These are a great neutral shoe that works well not only for running but for multiple workout activities. They are designed to provide a perfect balance of flexibility and cushioning to make them the best workout shoes for versatility of function.

The Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes are constructed of lightweight mesh uppers with tri-colored print in a breathable and stretchy fabric to offer flexible comfort for any foot shape. Durable leather overlays are added to provide stability and limit unwanted foot motion inside the shoe to prevent strain or injury. The EVA sockliner is added to provide super-soft step-in comfort for every individual.

Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes have interior charged cushioned midsoles with compression molded foam to conform to individual foot shape for superior comfort as well as extra responsiveness and high energy return for any workout activity. The outsole is constructed of solid rubber, intended to cover high impact zones to provide further durability while remaining lightweight.

The Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes have a roomy toe box with rounded toe shape to prevent rubbing and irritation. The lace-up closure adds further flexibility to adapt to foot shape, and to allow freedom of motion for a wide variety of workout activities. The lightweight, neutral-grade support and superior comfort cushioning makes the Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes among the best workout shoes available today.

Key Features
  • Mesh upper for lightweight breathability
  • Leather overlays to provide foot stability
  • EVA sockliner feature
  • Compression molded foam midsole
Specifications
  • Size Range: 7 to 15
  • Notable Materials: Textile, Synthetic, Rubber
  • Number of Colors: 15
  • Brand: Under Armour
Pros
  • Provides both balance and stability
  • Heel pull tabs for easy on and off
  • Extra responsive cushioning for energy return
Cons
  • Sizes run small

While in the past, most people considered a good pair of sneakers all that was needed for any athletic or sports activity, today’s athletic shoes are highly specialized. If you choose a good running shoe but try to wear them while trail-running, you may find yourself not enjoying your trail run as much as you anticipated, and sore feet and shin splints could keep you from ever trying the trail again. So how do you choose the best workout shoes for your trip to the gym without having to buy four or five pairs to suit every workout activity you have planned?

What You Need in Your Best Workout Shoes

Experts tell us that the best workout shoes are not the same as the best running shoes, though some shoes may be used for both if your run is short distance and your shoe isn’t designed strictly for running only. Activities inside the gym typically require a good workout shoe that’s closer to the ground than more specialized running shoes. They also need to provide greater stability and support for joints and muscles during the sideways and sliding motions associated with gym class activities which vary greatly from typical running movements. They may also be required to provide a firm and stable platform during weight training. Cycling or spinning activities also require a firm, flat base without the extreme flexibility of a running shoe. Running shoes have more lift and angle than is recommended for weight training and cause wasted energy while you struggle to maintain balance during lifting.

The best workout shoes deliver responsiveness, grip, and support, while still offering at least some of the cushioning, arch support, and energetic performance of a running shoe.

The Best Workout Shoes Available Today

Today’s Best Workout Shoes should be able to take your from your pilates, dance, or yoga class, straight to strength training without having to break for a shoe change along with your water break. Stable heel balance for lifting or squats, should be paired with a flexible sole for the more energetic movements of cardio activities. Inner support structures to stabilize the foot during energetic and vigorous exercise can be essential in protecting your feet from the stress and strain of slipping and sliding inside the shoe structure.

Experts tell us to also look for workout shoes that also offer such amenities as sock liners for comfort, memory foam insole cushioning, and low heel collars to allow multiple muscle movements for a variety of workout routines.

Some research can go a long way toward ferreting out the absolute best workout shoes to get you through all of your favorite workout activities at the gym. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and found the best workout shoes of today.

Resources— Health, RealSimple, GearPatrol

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