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Best Gym Shoes For Men and Women Reviewed
To make your life easier, we have researched and reviewed the best options currently available and put together reviews for our top ten picks. We rated each on comfort, versatility, durability, breathability, and overall value.
Now that winter is coming, we know a lot of you will be hitting the gym even more than usual—working out in frigid temperatures and harsher conditions.
Check out our 10 best gym shoes below and get a pair that will make your winter workouts the best experience ever.
Enjoy!
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to our workout gear--which is why we made this factor our priority when looking for the best shoes for our readers!
Having the right pair of gym shoes is incredibly important if you want to get a good workout in and continuously push yourself to the limit.
We rated each of the shoes we chose based on their overall comfort and took a look at the factors below--however when you are shopping for yourself just make sure to apply each of these factors to your own specific needs and comfort preferences.
Sizing and fit--make sure you get it right!
The key factor to consider when you want to make sure you are comfortable in your gym shoes is the size.
If you get something that is too small or too large you won't be comfortable--and either way, you will end up with blisters, chafing, and uncomfortable irritation. If you are ordering online make sure to refer to the sizing chart before you buy!
Consider your foot type
Not all of us have the same feet--which means we don't have the same needs. Before you choose your shoes you will need to take a look at your foot type and see if there are any specific issues you need to address.
This is especially important for those of you who overpronate or underpronate because you want to make sure you get the support you need.
Versatility
The best gym shoes should be versatile and a good option for different types of workouts--so get a pair that you can use for the types of workouts you enjoy doing.
While we were compiling our list of reviews, we made sure to take a look at how versatile each pair of shoes is.
Overall, we have a well-rounded selection for all types of athletes--so there is definitely something on here for everyone. Make sure to create a list of the types of workouts you need your shoes for and stick to those that will fit your needs.
The first thing we took a look at when evaluating each pair of shoes for versatility was user reviews. We wanted to see how well the shoes actually held up when put to the test for certain activities and we wanted to make sure they were comfortable and effective for those workouts...because if you want to be comfortable you also need to make sure the shoes fit your workouts.
Next, we took a look at how well the shoes move with you. This is important because some workouts require a lighter and more flexible pair of shoes and you may have noticed that many of the options on the list are not a good choice for just runners.
These shoes are designed for gym workouts on the mat and other activities, although you can run shorter distances with some of them.
Durability
If you want a pair of shoes you don't have to replace in a few short months, make sure to take a close look at how durable they really are.
We all want to get the most out of our workout gear, and the best gym shoes are no exception.
In order to ensure you are getting a durable pair of shoes, you will need to take a look at the material they are made of, their overall constructions, and what real-world users have to say about how the shoes actually hold up when they are put to the test of time.
What materials are the shoes made of?
This is incredibly important when it comes to durability. Some materials just don't hold up as well as others--which plays a big part in why some shoes fall apart faster than others.
All of the shoes on our list feature durable rubber outsoles; however, many of them have uppers made of different materials--the most durable being the flexweave on the Reebok Nano shoes.
See what others have to say for yourself!
This is where we took a close look at what real-world users had to say. We literally sifted through hundreds and hundreds of reviews to see how durable each of our top picks are and we encourage each of our readers to the same so you can see for yourself if the shoes will work for your gym workouts.
Breathability
When you are sweating through your workouts it's important to keep your feet cool and dry--which is where breathability comes in.
The upper material of your gym shoes is the most important thing to look at when you are trying to figure out how breathable your shoes are.
Some of the shoes on our list are more breathable than others--but trust us when we say that we made sure all of our selections will ensure your feet are cool and dry so you don't have to worry about any chafing, blisters, or skin irritation.
If you live in hotter climates or need a pair of shoes you can use during the hot summer months you will need to take an extra close look at the overall breathability of the shoes.
More importantly, if you already deal with overly sweaty feet you will need to take an extra precaution and ensure that you are getting the ventilation you need to prevent blisters.
All in all, although breathability is not the most important thing you need to take a look at, it is one of the top factors to keep in mind.
Once you find the best shoes to cover your comfort needs as well as the activities you want to do with them, then you will need to check out if the overall breathability of the shoes you are considering will work for you.
Value
To get the most value out of a pair of shoes for the gym, you are going to have to look beyond just the price!
When it comes to value, many people often assume we are just referring to the price of the shoes--however, that is not the case. Yes, the price plays an important part in determining the overall value of the shoes, but it is not the only component we took a look at when compiling our list of reviews--and you need to make sure to look at all of the following.
Does it fit your budget?
We don't all have the same needs as runners--and the same can be said about the amount of money we have to spend.
If you know you are on a tight budget--or if you only want to spend a certain amount--then you will want to make sure you set that from the very beginning so you aren't disappointed when you find shoes that you cannot afford.
Compare what the shoes have to offer to the price
This is the easiest and quickest way to determine the overall value of the best gym shoes featured above.
We made sure to do this in each of our reviews, but since you are purchasing shoes for yourself, you will need to take it a step further and compare the price to all of the features you need in your pair of good gym shoes specifically.
Top 10 Best Shoes for the Gym
1. Reebok Nano 9
Best affordable cross trainer
The Reebok Nano 9 cross trainers are not only a great option for CrossFit enthusiasts, but also for anyone who likes to hit the gym and get a good non-running specific workout in.
They are available in several different colors to choose from as well—so you can look great while you're at it.
Read moreComfort
These lace-up gym shoes are easy to secure into place, so you won’t have to worry about them slipping and sliding while you are working out. The Nano’s are also known for their roomy toe box—if you have wide feet, these shoes will definitely be comfortable enough for you.
Versatility
The Reebok nano series are my personal favorite CrossFit shoes—but they are also a great overall pair of shoes for the gym.
They help keep your heels firmly in place, so you don’t have to worry about leaning forward on your toes and they are flexible enough to allow for a full range of motion.
Overall, you can do most workouts with these shoes—even running, just don’t go too far.
Durability
The rubber sole is perfect for your gym workouts and they boost the overall durability of these shoes. The flexweave uppers are really durable as well and designed to ensure your shoes will make it through even your toughest workouts.
Breathability
Thanks to the mesh material in their upper, the shoes are able to be really breathable and allow for the proper ventilation.
It is important to note that the Reebok Nano 9 are not made of traditional mesh just like your running shoes, but rather they feature the flexweave material.
Value
The Reebok Nano 9 actually range in price. This model isn’t as expensive as previous models have been in the past; however, they are still a little pricey if you want certain colors.
Overall, the Reebok Nano 9 are worth every penny if you need a good well-rounded pair of gym shoes.
2. Nike Metcon 5
If you want a stylish and effective pair of shoes for the gym, you will love the Nike Metcon 5. Not only will you be looking great in them, but this model has been a favorite for years and the fifth iteration does not disappoint.
These shoes are comfortable, durable, and a great option for a variety of lifts and workouts—you can use them every time you hit the gym.
Read moreComfort
If you have wider feet, you will love them because they offer a lot of space in the toe box area. They also feature a firm foam on the heel portion of the shoe, which ensures you have a comfortable and secure fit that won’t move around.
In contrast, the forefoot of the shoe is well-cushioned, which provides excellent shock absorption.
Versatility
The Nike Metcon 5 are low to the ground and also come with the Hyperlift insert—which means you can use these for heavy squats and thrusters where you need more stability as well as the deadlift when you need to be lower to the ground.
They also feature directional traction on the side, which is perfect for rope climbs!
Durability
Incredibly durable, these are built to last—and they are also really lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about them weighing you down.
The directional traction on the shoes boosts their overall durability and protects them from wear and tear from certain workouts.
Breathability
They may not appear durable when you look at their upper, but that is not the case at all.
The Nike Metcon 5 are actually really breathable and well-ventilated, so you can count on them to keep your feet cool and dry during all of your workouts.
Value
Because this is the newest Metcon model, it will cost you a pretty penny. However, if you have already experienced the power of the Metcon, then you know they are worth every cent you spend.
If you're looking for optimal traction, grip, and versatility then these are perfect for you.
3. Asics Gel Venture 7
Yes, these are running shoes, but they are also a great pair of gym shoes—so, if you are looking for a pair of good outdoor running shoes that you can take with you to the gym to get some weight training or group workouts in, then you will love these.
They are available in several colors so you can choose the option you like most.
Read moreComfort
The best part about the Asics Gel Venture 7 is how comfortable they are for both running and gym workouts. They feature a secure fit thanks to their closure system, and their heel counter will provide the stability you need to keep your foot upright the entire time.
They have a cushioned ortholite sockliner that contours to your foot, so you get custom-tailored comfort.
Versatility
As I mentioned earlier, these are running shoes that are perfect for trail runs, but they are also a great pair of gym shoes—so if you just want to buy one pair of shoes you can use for both, then these are it.
They provide you with excellent shock absorption and are great for trail running and high impact workouts—like HIIT.
Durability
They feature a durable rubber sole and a high-quality mesh upper. In fact, the upper portion of the shoe is made of good quality synthetic leather and mesh, so you can trust they will last you the long haul without sacrificing other features.
Breathability
Because the Asics Gel Venture 7 feature breathable mesh in their upper, they will definitely keep you cool and dry even on the hottest days.
They come with breathable and moisture-wicking fabric lining, so you get optimal breathability as well.
Value
These are by far one of the more affordable selections on our list so far. They come at a great price, are available in several colors, and are perfect for a variety of workouts—including running.
If you want to look great and never worry about missing a workout again, Asics Gel Venture 7 is a great way to go.
4. Mizuno TC-01
Here we have a pair of Mizuno shoes for the gym that is comfortable, durable, and really versatile. They are available in a few color options but don’t expect to have a ton of selections to choose from.
Other than that, these are a great pair for anyone looking for a flexible pair of shoes they can wear for different types of workouts.
Read moreComfort
The defining feature these Mizuno gym shoes have to offer is their COB midsole, which allows for optimal balance, energy return, and helps you keep the proper form when you work out in them.
The midsole is also really flexible and allows for a full range of motion with each and every movement.
The shoes have support straps on the inside to ensure your feet stay securely placed so blisters and chafing don’t occur.
Versatility
The Mizuno TC-01 are perfect for a wide range of workouts. A lot of people like them for weight training in the gym, group classes, and so much more. They are also a great option for static movements because of the stability they provide.
Durability
With a rubber sole and a knit upper, they are designed to last you a long time. They feature a 3D fit so they don’t slip around and—according to user review—thy can really hold up in the long run.
Not only is the outsole of the shoe durable, but it also provides optimal grip and traction.
Breathability
The knit upper on these gym shoes are not just comfortable and durable but also really breathable. If you deal with sweaty feet or are worried about not getting the ventilation you need, then you will love these shoes.
Value
If you are on a budget and looking for something affordable, then you have to check out the Mizuno TC-01. They offer a lot of great features and if you treat them right, they will definitely last you the long haul.
5. Under Armour TriBase Reign
The Under Armour TriBase Reign gym shoes are sleek and lightweight, so if you want a comfortable, lightweight, and breathable pair of shoes, these might be the right pair for you.
Make sure to take a look at our review below to see if they will work for you and be the perfect match for your workout needs.
Read moreComfort
As far as comfort goes, these features will provide you with ground feel so you can hold your position without worrying about any slipping and sliding.
The heel counter ensures you get the stability you need while you work out and the cushioning for ideal responsiveness.
Versatility
When it comes to versatility, the Under Armour TriBase Reign allow for a full range of motion and are a great option for static movements. You can lift with these and do HIIT workouts with static movements programmed in them.
The great thing about these shoes is how easy you can transition in between movements, so you can switch between workouts effortlessly.
Durability
Because of the ripstop material used in their construction, the Under Armour TriBase Reign are abrasion-resistant and really durable. They feature lightweight and durable mesh material that will hold up to countless workouts and long term use.
Breathability
Those of you who deal with sweaty feet or who are worried about a pair of shoes not keeping your feet cool and dry will love these shoes.
While they are not the most breathable shoes on our list of reviews, they will ensure your feet cool and dry through hours of working out.
Value
The one thing about the Under Armour TriBase Reign is that they are a little pricey, especially if you want certain color options.
However, if you need a low profile shoe that provides an excellent ground feel and is made for static workouts, you will find these are definitely a great investment.
6. New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1
If you have ever had a pair of New Balance shoes, then you know how awesome they are. These New Balance shoes are sleek, stylish, and provide you with the comfort and stability you need to get through even the toughest of workouts—each and every day.
If you want to look great while you get a good workout, these may be the perfect pair of shoes for you.
Read moreComfort
Thanks to the foamy Revlite midsole and the memory insole, these are really comfortable and well-cushioned. The insert itself is removable, so you can choose the amount of cushioning you have and the lacing system allows you to get a secure and comfortable fit that prevents any slipping and sliding.
Versatility
The New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 are perfect for a variety of exercise and ladies everywhere love that they can use them for almost all of their favorite group workouts—they are a great option for everyday use as well.
They come in a lot of different colors to choose from, so you can pick your favorite.
Durability
With a durable rubber outsole and synthetic material for the exterior, the New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 are designed to be durable and built to last. Their removable cushioned insert is also really durable and will hold up to the test of time.
Breathability
If you are looking for a really breathable pair of shoes, then you will love this option. They are lightweight and provide for optimal ventilation so you can count on them to keep you cool and dry for the long haul.
Value
The New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 run on the pricey side, but they are worth every penny if you want a versatile pair of shoes you can use to work out in as well as to wear every day.
7. Altra HIIT XT 2
The Altra HIIT XT 2 are an awesome pair of shoes that you can use for almost all of your gym workouts, group classes, and so much more. And, although you can’t run really long distances with these, you can do some short-distance running.
If you need more support and stability in a pair of shoes for the gym, then these may be a solid option for you to consider getting.
Read moreComfort
If you have wide feet, you are in luck because these shoes have a wide toe box with plenty of room for your toes to splay—in fact, they are actually better for those of you with wide feet.
If you aren’t able to try them on in-store, you will want to make sure to check the sizing chart and size down if you have narrower feet.
Versatility
Although a lot of users love these shoes for CrossFit workouts and daily WODs, they are also a great option for static workouts, light running, and several lists. They also provide a lot of stability and support, so you can trust them to keep you firmly in place.
Durability
One thing to note here is that although these are pretty durable, they aren’t as durable as many other options on our list of reviews. The compression is a great feature, but over time it loses its compressibility which many users find frustrating.
Breathability
The Altra HIIT XT 2 feature a mesh upper that allows for optimal breathability and great ventilation throughout the entire shoes. Not only is the upper breathable, but it is also fast drying good for most people.
However, if you have sweaty feet you may find you will still experience chafing and blisters.
Value
Although the Altra HIIT XT 2 are pricey, if you have really wide feet you will find these are the best option on our list. They are comfortable, breathable, and a great option for most workouts.
8. No Bull Trainer
The No Bull brand is well-known in the CrossFit community, but that doesn’t mean they only work for CrossFit. These are a great pair of shoes for gym workouts because they are versatile, comfortable, and designed to last through countless workouts for the long haul.
Read moreComfort
As far as comfort goes, these are designed for it. They run true to size, so if you are ordering online make sure to refer to the sizing chart. They feature a seamless design, which makes them more comfortable.
They are also flexible enough to allow for a full range of motion, so you can do most movements with the No Bull Trainer.
Versatility
The No Bull Trainer is really versatile—you can run, lift, climb ropes, and so much more…if you can think of it, you can probably do it in these shoes. They also have lugs on the outsole that are made for a variety of surfaces.
They are flexible and supportive as well.
Durability
Thanks to the SuperFabric guard plates, you can count on them to be both durable and flexible.
The No Bull Trainer is abrasion-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about tearing them up in the middle of your workouts.
Breathability
Incredibly breathable and lightweight, these shoes will ensure you stay cool and dry through all of your workouts.
Not only is the seamless option of the shoe really durable, but it is also extraordinarily breathable and well-ventilated.
Value
The No Bull Trainer is pretty pricey, but given its reputation, you will find these are worth every penny.
They are a great option for almost every athlete, not just CrossFit athletes, so if you need a great pair of gym shoes, do consider the No Bull Trainer.
9. Reebok Fast Tempo
Here we have another Reebok selection on our list of reviews, and it is no surprise given how great the Reebok brand is. The Reebok Fast Tempo are sleek and stylish and a more affordable option than other options on our list.
Read moreComfort
In order to provide a secure and comfortable fit, these shoes feature support straps on the inside that help keep your feet in place.
They also feature a well-cushioned midsole that contours to your foot and is flexible enough to allow for a full range of motion.
Versatility
If you want a versatile pair of shoes, then these are definitely the way to go. They are a great option for runners, static workouts, group classes, and so on.
The Reebok Fast Tempo are designed to keep your feet securely in place and are well-cushioned to ensure they provide you with shock absorption, support, and the stability they need.
Durability
These shoes are incredibly durable, much like other Reebok gym shoes. They feature a good quality rubber outsole and have a flexweave upper that can hold up to long term use without sacrificing their overall flexibility.
Breathability
Although they are not the most breathable shoes on our list of reviews, there is still a good amount of ventilation and the trainers will definitely keep your feet cool and dry during your workouts. The mesh in the upper is both durable and breathable.
Value
If you are on a budget, you will like the price of the Reebok Fast Tempo. They offer several features and are incredibly comfortable, breathable, and durable—so they are worth every penny.
10. Puma Tazon 6
These are by far the most affordable shoes on our list of reviews. They are a great option for those of you who enjoy hitting the gym and want something to use for different types of workouts.
The Puma Tazon 6 feature a classic design that looks great even as an everyday shoe—so you can transition from the gym to errands without having to go home and change.
Read moreComfort
The best part about these is how comfortable they are. They provide you with the stability, support, and shock absorption that you need to stay comfortable.
If you need additional padding for support, you will love the Puma Tazon 6 since they offer that.
Versatility
Overall, these shoes are a great option for those of you who need a well-cushioned pair of trainers that will provide the support and stability you need.
They are also slip-resistant and assure the proper grip for static exercises and many different lifts.
Durability
As far as durability goes, the Puma Tazon 6 are designed to hold up to long term use.
The shoes are made with leather that is built to last. This makes them easy to clean—but the leather also means they are less odor resistant.
Breathability
The biggest downfall is their lack of breathability because they are made with synthetic leather that limits the ventilation. If you have overly sweaty feet this option is not the best choice for you; however, if you don’t have that issue you will be fine with your indoor gym workouts.
Value
Those of you who are on a tight budget will find these come at the right price. The Puma Tazon 6 are incredibly durable and comfortable—and a great option for many different workouts.
Sources
- , Best workout shoes 2019: safely and effectively squat, leap and lift your way to fitness with the best gym shoes, Buying Guide
- , 10 Best Gym Shoes in 2019, Buying Guide
- , The 11 Best Gym Shoes for Every Type of Workout, Buying Guide
