When it comes to maintaining an active lifestyle, choosing the right sneaker is not just a preference—it's a necessity. For those who are serious about lifting, running, and engaging in intense workouts, finding the best sneaker can significantly impact performance and prevent injuries. The perfect pair should offer unparalleled support and stability for lifting heavy weights while also providing the cushioning needed for running and high-impact activities.
Sneakers designed for intense workouts must feature durable construction to withstand rigorous use without compromising comfort. Look for options with advanced sole technology that offers exceptional grip and traction during dynamic movements. A well-designed sneaker will seamlessly transition between different types of exercises, ensuring that whether you're sprinting on a track or powering through squats at the gym, your footwear is working as hard as you are.
Don't settle for less when it comes to your fitness journey; invest in sneakers that meet the demands of your active lifestyle. Prioritize quality and functionality to enhance every step you take towards achieving your fitness goals.
Best Gym Shoes Overall: TYR CXT-2 Trainer
All-Around Performer for The Avid Gym-Goer
Sizes: 7.5 to 15 (men), 5 to 12 (women) | Features: Wide fit, TPU Stability Wrap, secure lacing system | Colors: 14 options (men), 15 options (women)
Pros:
A TPU Stability Wrap gives the shoe superior stability
The flexible forefoot allows for more agile movement
An extended toe guard for excellent traction
Cons:
Full range of sizes limited to some colors
Price range: $150 and up
If your gym sessions blend a mix of workouts—a few rounds of cardio interspersed with weights, for example—you’ll need a shoe that’s adaptable and versatile to work as hard as you do.
I’ve chosen the TYR CXT-2 Trainer as the best overall gym shoe for this reason. It’s a solid pick for all types of workouts, designed with the full spectrum of armor for protection and to help improve your performance. From the laundry list of tech and specs, the shoe tackles stability with a TPU Stability Wrap on both sides and heels. It has High-Density Heel Foam for comfort and its trademarked rubber Tyrtac Outsole for high traction during movements. It also boasts an “ultra responsive” foam midsole for ample cushioning and protection.
Best Budget Gym Shoes: Nike MC Trainer 3
A High-End Gym Shoe for A Low Investment
Sizes: 6 to 15 (men), 5 to 12 (women) | Features: Forefoot flex grooves, foam midsole, outer rubber | Colors: 6 options (men), 5 options (women)
Pros:
Made with a breathable upper mesh
A flat base is great for stability
Half sizes available
Cons:
Its “moderate” flexibility may not best serve dynamic movements
Price range:
$60 - $80
If your workouts are more sporadic than set, you may want to save on splashing out without skimping on quality. The MC Trainer 3 is an all-rounder, meaning it suits many types of workouts. This is due to its thoughtful design combo—a flat base adds an element of stability during lifts, while forefoot and heel cushioning pads your feet from impact and rubber enhances your floor grip.
Best Gym Shoes For HIIT: Nobull Allday Ripstop
Hit The Ground Running (Or jumping)
Sizes: 7 to 18 (men, availability depending on color), 5 to 11 (women) | Features: Removable anatomical insole, breathable ripstop, outer rubber | Colors: 8 options (men), 8 options (women)
Pros:
Lightweight for lightning movements
A grippy rubber outsole provides stability
Breathable material
Cons:
Expensive
Price Range: $149 and up
It’s no secret that HIIT classes are intense. It says it in the name. “High exertion” requires a shoe that not only performs across multiple fitness disciplines but doesn't wear out fast. The Nobull Allday Ripstop is the ideal HIIT partner to meet the demands of this challenging workout.
Best Gym Shoes for Running: Asics Novablast 4
A Highly Cushioned Shoe for Indoor and Outdoor Runs
Sizes: 6 to 15 (men), 5 to 12 (women) | Features: Energized cushioning, woven upper | Colors: 16 options (men), 14 (women)
Pros:
FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning provides a bouncier run
Woven upper fabric allows feet to breathe
Outside is “trampoline-inspired” for a spring in your step
Cons:
Not designed for over-pronated feet
Price range: $100 - $150
For avid runners whose runway of choice is the treadmill, what gives a good shoe the edge is ample cushioning and shock absorption, according to Valadares. This helps reduce the impact on your joints, especially your knees and hips. Running also involves repetitive heel strikes, requiring a shoe with a heel-to-toe drop of between 8mm and 12mm to help shift some impact away from your Achilles tendon, he adds.
Best Gym Shoes for Weightlifting: Nike Romaleos 4
Exemplary Support to Step Up Your Deadlifts
Sizes: 3.5 to 15 (men), 5 to 16.5 (women) | Features: Adjustable midfoot straps, sturdy base| Colors: 4 options
Pros:
Secure straps lock down your feet
Rigid midsole gives support during intense movements
Rubber tread provides high traction
Cons:
Expensive
Price Range: $150 - $200
There’s a lot more to weightlifting than hoisting heavy steel. This demanding sport also requires flexibility, cardio output and good balance. Before loading on the weights, consider upgrading to a shoe that delivers on all these fronts and more.
First off, a sturdy base is non-negotiable. This is where a powerful shoe like the Nike Romaleos 4 steps in. With an elevation of just over 19mm that allows for a better range of motion (particularly at the ankles) and a super stiff platform that doesn’t compress, these shoes will keep you steady during liftoff. The heel is wide, too, for a steadier base, while the rubber sole grips the floor for added confidence during explosive lifts.