The 11 Best Workout Shoes to Hit the Gym Hard
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The 11 Best Workout Shoes to Hit the Gym Hard
When it comes to working out, there's one word that I'm sure you hear a lot: foundation. Trying out a new spin bike? Make sure you have a solid foundation of resistance. Going for a P.R. on a snatch or clean? Keep your stance firm with a stable foundation. And when it comes down to what is best to wear to your workout? Well, it all starts with your foundation: Gym shoes.
A pair of good gym shoes is the literal base of your workout, and you need the right ones if you expect to hit your 2023 fitness goals. Before you pick your pair, it's important to think about what kind of workout you intend to do in them. It may seem obvious, but there's a big difference between a seven-mile run and a heavy lifting session, and thus, your shoes must reflect this difference. You may just want a more generalized pair, in which case a cross trainer is going to be your best bet. Once you decide on the type of sneaker you want, consider fit, material, and heft. You want a shoe that's snug but not too snug. A shoe that's breathable but well-made. A shoe that's lightweight but supportive. And then, only once you've narrowed it down through all this criteria, can you choose your sneaker's look.
We know it's a lot to consider so don't worry about trying to remember it all. We've made it easy by rounding up the 11 best workout shoes, from basketball high-tops to running sneakers, and have covered all of the bases. Get your head (and your feet) in the game.
Courtesy - 2/12
Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes
Nike
nike.com
$120.00
In terms of everyday training, these are the shoes to hit the gym in. Nike is obviously one of the favorites when it comes to athletic shoes, but the Free Metcon 4 are particularly special. They are flexible and stable, with mesh to cool your feet.
nike.com - 3/12
Endorphin Speed 3
Saucony
saucony.com
$170.00
My family stands behind Saucony running shoes, especially my sister who just completed the Boston Marathon in them. They have extra cushion for support on long runs, and they are lightweight so that you can go the distance without feeling like you're slogging through mud.
saucony.com - 4/12
Adipower Weightlifting 3 Shoes
Adidas
adidas.com
$220.00
So you're the one who came here for some shoes for practicing your Olympic weightlifting? Look no further than these Adidas ones. The raised heel and dense sole will stabilize you, and the lace-and-strap combo keeps your feet firmly locked in.
adidas.com - 5/12
Challenger 7 Shoes
Hoka
Hoka
$145.00
Maybe you aren't planning on running straight to the gym. Maybe you're going to take a quick detour through that forest in your backyard. Or embark on Central Park's hilly routes before ending up at Equinox. Wherever your workout takes you, these Hokas are a great choice for any trail running you intend to do. The reinforced support makes for a durable all-terrain shoe.
Hoka - 6/12
TechLoom Pro
APL
athleticpropulsionlabs.com
$160.00
For a lifestyle shoe, we turn to APL. The sneakers are incredibly lightweight and nimble, almost feeling like more of a sock than a shoe. If you are hitting a yoga class, or if you plan on walking hours around town before making it to the gym, these are the pair for you.
athleticpropulsionlabs.com - 7/12
Air Jordan XXXVII Shoes
Nike
nike.com
$135.97
You can't be a baller without baller shoes. Obviously, Jordans are going to make the list, and these ones are a staple. With multiple Air units to increase your vertical and a soft foam to cushion your landing, you will be truly catching some air in these.
nike.com - 8/12
Court FF 3 Shoes
Asics
Asics
$170.00
If anyone knows tennis shoes, it's Asics. One of the more understated footwear brands, Asics is not to be slept on. Its tennis shoes in particular are a brand favorite, as they are extra stable for all the side-to-side movements. The strong grip allows for you to plant your feet firmly and pour power into your swing.
Asics - 9/12
Cloud 5 Running Shoes
On
nordstrom.com
$139.99
A cult-like following, On's running shoes have been frequenting streets and gyms alike, surging to popularity in the last few years. These shoes are the perfect hybrid between workout and lifestyle, a great transition shoe from the gym to the sidewalk. Once you have a pair, you won't ever look back.
nordstrom.com - 10/12
DailyFit DMX Shoes
Reebok
reebok.com
$80.00
Some people like to just walk at the gym, and I'm into that vibe. And then hit the steam room of course. In which case, you should make sure that you have a pair of shoes apt for doing just that, like these Reeboks.
reebok.com - 11/12
Mercurial Zoom Superfly Shoes
Nike
dickssportinggoods.com
$94.99
When it comes to indoor soccer, I'm loyal to my Mercurials. They have gripping soles to keep you from slipping and sliding, and an additional level of cushioning for tough terrains. The NikeSkin material is super soft and flexible, making them an excellent choice for comfort. They also come in a turf version, if that's where your indoor soccer takes you.
dickssportinggoods.com - 12/12
Wool Knit Runners
No Bull
nobullproject.com
$169.00
For a real sock-like fit, these Merino wool knit running shoes are going to give you just that. Odor absorbing and moisture managing, the shoes are a sleek style that keep your feet dry and smell-free (mostly). The minimalistic design is perfect if you like your shoes to blend into a monochrome fit.
nobullproject.com