Best Gym Shoes For Men and Women Reviewed

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.

Comfort

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.