9 Best Gym Shoes for Running, Weights, and More

The best gym shoes have features specific to certain activities. Running shoes are typically more cushioned to reduce the impact on the joints. Weightlifting shoes help to align and stabilize the lower body to reduce the risk of injury.
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This article explores why different workouts may require different gym shoes, and lists a range of gym shoes available. Finally, we answer some frequently asked questions about gym shoes.
A quick look at the best gym shoes:
Best weightlifting shoes: Under Armour Project Rock 3 Training Shoes
Under Armour Project Rock 3 Training Shoes
Best all-terrain shoes: Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
Best cross-training shoes: Reebok Nano X Shoes
Reebok Nano X Shoes
Best running shoes: Reebok Lavante Terrain Running Shoes
Reebok Lavante Terrain Running Shoes
Best strength training shoes: Nike Free Metcon 7 Shoes
Nike Free Metcon 7 Shoes
Best sustainable gym shoes: Nike Tanjun Shoes
Nike Tanjun Shoes
Best treadmill shoes: Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Running Shoes
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Running Shoes
Best cycling shoes: Tiem Slipstream Shoes
Tiem Slipstream Shoes
Best shoes for fitness classes: Rykä Influence Training Shoe
Rykä Influence Training Shoe
How we chose
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices.
Materials: MNT chooses products that use safe and durable materials and fabrics that are easy to clean.
Sizing: MNT chooses products available for various body shapes and sizes.
Quality: MNT chooses companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes.
Top gym shoes
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
Under Armour Project Rock 4 Training Shoes
Approximate weight:9 ounces (oz)
Fit: regular
Number of sizes: 14
Price: $75-260
Under Armour is a fitness shoe and apparel company that sells shoes for different sports, including baseball, football, and golf. It also makes military and tactical training shoes.
Under Armour’s weightlifting shoes use the company’s HOVR technology to provide a feeling of zero gravity. According to Under Armour, this patented technology helps people maintain energy return, which reduces impact on the joints.
These shoes may provide adequate stability to assist people who lift weights.
The shoes are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between these ranges and include:
black/gray
lime/black
blue/black
The Under Armour Project Rock 4 Training Shoes cost between $75-260. The company also offers interest-free payments and 60-day returns.
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Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
Approximate weight: 8 oz
Fit: regular
Number of sizes: 14
Price: $30-125
Under Armour’s Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes feature a compression-molded foam midsole that responds to and reduces impact while running.
The solid rubber outsole spreads over several high impact zones, ensuring the shoes have good durability no matter the running surface.
A mesh upper ensures breathability for a comfortable run.
These shoes may suit runners who need flexibility, cushioning, and breathability. They are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between the ranges and include:
black
black/white
white/black
gray/white
teal/white
pink/white
The Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes cost between $30-125. The company also offers interest-free payments for those who do not wish to pay the full amount in one go.
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Reebok Nano X Shoes
Weight: 14.4 oz
Fit: regular
Number of sizes: 12+
Price: $60-200
Reebok is an established sports brand that sells a range of fitness apparel and sports equipment, from leggings and trainers to treadmills and free weights.
The Reebok Nano X shoe is a crosstraining shoe. Features include:
Flexweave material breathability, stability, and durability
enhanced comfort, with a new collar construction that holds the ankle in place
a minimal drop outsole
low profile stability that secures footing
These shoes are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between the ranges and include:
black/black/white
black/white/orange
black/gray
army green/poplar green
white/black/red
chalk/navy/sepia
pure gray
The Reebok Nano X Shoes cost between $60-200.
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Reebok Lavante Terrain Running Shoes
Approximate weight: 11 oz
Fit: regular
Number of sizes: 12+
Price: $25-90
Reebok specifically designed these shoes for outdoor running, though a person can also use them in the gym.
These terrain shoes have the following key features:
FuelFoam in the midsole to provide a cushioning response
a textured rubber sole for increased grip, even in muddy and other challenging terrains
soft and breathable material
These shoes are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between the ranges and include:
black/white
black/gray
gray/red/blue
pure gray
The Reebok Lavante Terrain Running Shoes cost between $25-90.
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Nike Free Metcon 7 Shoes
Approximate weight: 11 oz
Fit: narrow
Number of sizes: 15+
Price: $70-250
Nike is a well-established sports brand, and its fitness products are available globally.
According to Nike, the Nike Free Metcon 7 supports various activities, including boot camps and strength training.
The shoes feature a durable strap that offers stability during workouts. They have a snug, sock-like fit and are lightweight, flexible, and breathable.
The shoes are available in men’s and women’s sizes. Color options vary between the ranges and include:
black/white
orange/gray/white
gray/white
pink
black/white/green
yellow
white/green
The Nike Free Metcon 7 Shoes cost between $70-250 but are also available with payment installments. There is also a 60-day return for Nike members purchasing directly.
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Nike Tanjun Shoes
Approximate weight: 7 oz
Fit: tight
Number of sizes: 15
Price: $38-155
Nike’s Tanjun shoes feature a lightweight but durable midsole and outsole and a low-cut padded collar for comfort. The shoes also comprise a minimum of 20% recycled material by weight.
Reviews on the company website indicate that users find the shoes comfortable and suitable for all-day wear, walking, and gym use.
The shoes are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between the ranges and include:
black
white/black
black/white
pink/gray
gray/white
The Nike Tanjun Shoes cost between $38-155. The company also offers four interest-free payments.
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Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Running Shoes
Approximate weight: 8 oz
Fit: tight
Number of sizes: 13
Price: $78-200
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Running shoes contain a patented Mizuno Wave plate, which the company claims disperses energy from impacts over a broad area for stability and superior cushioning. These shoes also feature a durable and breathable mesh upper.
The shoes are available in men’s and women’s ranges. Color options vary between these ranges and include:
imperial blue/vivid blue
blackened pearl
black
lake blue/clearwater
pale lilac/white
The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 shoes cost between $78-200 and come with a 30-day return guarantee.
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Tiem Slipstream Shoes
Approximate weight: 5 oz
Fit: tight
Number of sizes: 13
Price: $135
Tiem has used designed these shoes specifically for studio cycling classes. The slip-on shoes have a single strap and a breathable mesh toe box. Cleats are available separately.
Tiem Slipstream Shoes are available only in women’s sizes. However, Tiem states that people seeking men’s sizes can add 1.5 to their usual size. For example, a man who is ordinarily a size 9 should purchase a women’s size 10.5.
There are 13 color options, including:
black
white
coral
navy
lilac
camo
The Tiem Slipstream shoes cost $135 and come with a 30-day guarantee.
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Rykä Influence Training Shoe
Approximate weight: 7 oz
Fit: regular
Number of sizes: 13
Price: $45-165
This shoe is suitable for dance fitness and light workouts at home or at the gym.
A dual-density foam midsole provides padding for impact and helps the shoe keep its shape. The shoe aims to provide ease of movement, and the insole provides extra arch and heel support.
These shoes are available in women’s sizes, with medium or wide-width options.
There are 9 color options, including:
black
vapor gray
iris blue
pink rose
black/multi
The Rykä Influence Training Shoes cost between $45-165 and come with a 45-day guarantee.
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Comparison table
The following table compares the gym shoes above on key features:
Under Armour Project Rock 4 Training Shoes
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
Reebok Nano X Shoes
Reebok Lavante Terrain Running Shoes
Nike Free Metcon 7 Shoes
Nike Tanjun Shoes
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Running Shoes
Tiem Slipstream Shoes
Rykä Influence Training Shoe
What to look for in gym shoes
Comfort, safety, and proper fit are important factors when choosing a gym shoe.
factors
A safe gym shoe features a flat, nonskid sole with heel support and enough space for the toes to move around.
Gym shoes should also provide cushioning for the foot arch. People with flat feet should carefully research gym shoes, as regular-fit shoes may not provide enough arch support.
flat feet
Learn about the best running shoes for flat feet here.
Learn about the best running shoes for flat feet here.
People should also look for shoes suitable for their chosen activity:
Running vs. workout shoes
Depending on a person’s workout routine, they may need different gym shoes for different activities.
Below are some activities for which a person may require a specific type of gym shoe.
Sportswear manufacturers have dramatically altered the look and feel of running shoes in the past century by trialing new designs and materials.
Running shoes now have technical and engineering elements that provide different characteristics important for running, such as:
characteristics
support
cushioning
a barefoot feel
A 2015 review notes that running injury levels have remained unchanged for 40 years despite these advances. However, the authors state this may be due to changes to the running population and the definition of a running injury.
2015 review
Learn more about the best running shoes for men here.
Learn more about the best running shoes for men here.
Learn more about the best running shoes for women here.
Learn more about the best running shoes for women here.
The key characteristics of weightlifting shoes include:
raised heels, appropriate for a person’s height
solid, nonslip soles
ankle support
a roomy, secure fit
Although weightlifting shoes have features that running shoes lack, studies cannot confirm their benefits for all people who lift weights. A 2017 study demonstrated that weightlifting shoes may benefit experienced weightlifters more than inexperienced weightlifters.
2017 study
Below are some key differences between running shoes and weightlifting shoes:
Running shoes focus on cushioning, while weightlifting shoes focus on alignment.
Running shoes are flexible, while weightlifting shoes are solid.
Running shoes promote rebounding, whereas weightlifting shoes help absorb force.
Learn about the best weightlifting shoes here.
Learn about the best weightlifting shoes here.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about gym shoes:
Most companies provide a size chart on their website to help people take their measurements and select an appropriate shoe size. Those who need help choosing their size may contact the customer team for guidance.
Many products also come with a return guarantee, so customers can return their shoes if they do not fit.
Gym instructors may recommend weightlifting shoes for individuals who lift weights. These help provide stability and maintain a comfortable position when squatting, especially if a person has ankle problems.
may recommend
The cost of workout trainers varies according to the type, brand, and materials. Most cost more than $100. Many brands offer interest-free payments for people who wish to pay in installments.
Gym shoes will deteriorate over time, so individuals should check them regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Signs that a shoe needs replacing include:
having tired, aching feet after physical activity
experiencing pain in the shins, knees, or hips after physical activity
noticing a worn-out tread on the shoes
Summary
Gym shoe manufacturers offer shoes specialized for different types of gym activities. Whether a person runs, lifts weights, or participates in group classes, they can find a specialized gym shoe to suit their needs.
The best gym shoe will provide appropriate durability, support, and comfort.
People can use online sizing charts to select the most appropriate shoe for their foot size and shape. Most companies also offer a guarantee period, during which a person can return their shoes if they are not a good fit.