The 16 Best Cross-Training Shoes for Women, Reviewed by Fitness Experts
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Top Cross-Training Shoes for Women of 2024
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for CrossFit
Nike Metcon 9 Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for High Arches
Asics NovaBlast 4 Shoes
adidas Dropset 2 Training Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT
Nike SuperRep Go 3 Flyknit Next Nature Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Under Armour HOVR Phantom 3 SE Shoes
Best Affordable Cross-Training Shoes for Women
adidas Everyset Trainer Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
New Balance Minimus TR Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Overpronation
Puma PWR XX Nitro Luxe Training Shoes
Nobull Gum Trainer+ Sneakers
Most Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Bunions
APL Ascend Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Bad Knees
Brooks Levitate 6 Running Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for WeightLifting
Reebok Nano X3 Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet
Altra Solstice XT 2 Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Heel Support
On Cloud X 3 AD Shoes
Rykä No Limit Training Shoes
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Hiking
Salewa Ultra Train 3 W Hiking Shoes
Yes, you really do need a dedicated pair of cross-training shoes — your typical walking sneakers, running sneakers, and workout shoes won’t cut it for demanding workouts that involve a mix of weightlifting, HIIT, and cardio. That’s because the best cross-training shoes for women have distinctly different features that support every movement, from slow and steady squats to explosive box jumps.
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“Cross trainers tend to be a little firmer when it comes to cushioning and shock absorption, as running shoe foam compresses over time when repeatedly absorbing weight,” explains Grace Wentzien, project manager for women’s training shoes at Under Armour. “Cross-training shoes, on the other hand, are able to withstand the weight absorption that cross-training requires without compromising stability or longevity.”
Wearing the proper footwear for whatever activity you choose to do is about so much more than style. The best cross-training shoes for women help ensure you have the ankle stability, arch support, and necessary flexibility or stiffness needed to perform your workouts to the best of your ability. Plus, as with the best running shoes or the best weightlifting shoes, shoes specially made for cross-training will help prevent injuries. “These shoes should be less flexible, because they’re designed to keep the foot stable within the shoe,” says Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, is a New York-based podiatrist and a Vionic Innovation Lab member.
Cross-training covers a wide range of modalities — from HIIT to CrossFit or even bodyweight workouts and jumping rope — so, naturally, cross-training shoes on the market come in a variety of styles with different features that are tailored to the type of workouts you’re doing.
What’s more, your unique foot shape or potential foot concerns, like high arches, bunions, or plantar fasciitis, will change the type of cross-trainer shoes for women you’ll be shopping for.
To help you sift through all the cross-training shoes for women available, we tapped Dr. Sutera and Wentzien, along with Fran Calvert, a competitive CrossFit athlete for their picks. Together, these experts, along with the expertise of the Footwear News team, bring you the ultimate list of the best cross-training shoes for women available right now.
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for CrossFit
Nike Metcon 9 Shoes
Best for: CrossFit, weightlifting
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Beloved by athletes, easy on-and-off, firm sole for ample stability
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Nike’s Metcon series has long been the gold standard for weight training and CrossFit shoes. And despite some pretty significant updates to similar shoes from competitors over the years, its status remains. For the latest iteration, Nike changed the shoe’s Hyperlift plate in the heel to make it even bigger and more stable. This means it’s great for complex lifts like snatches and cleans during CrossFit WODs. Plus, the durable rubber outsole has great traction for dynamic movements, and the extended rubber wrap on the sides helps ensure you have grip from all angles.
What testers say: “This shoe is great for a workout at the gym or for a day of hiking. The sole is extremely grippy… This shoe is a little more than what you need for every day, casual wear but these are definitely my go to for high intensity or outdoor exercise.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for High Arches
Asics NovaBlast 4 Shoes
Best for: Treadmill workouts
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Lots of cushion, and high energy return
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
People who have high arches tend to underpronate, meaning their feet roll inward as they walk or run. These individuals need a shoe with lots of cushioning to disperse force and reduce the chance of lower leg injuries. While technically a running shoe, the Asics NovaBlast 4 is one of the most comfortable sneakers for women you can buy. The newest iteration of the shoes come with improvements to the midsole, which provides better energy return and more cushioned landings. If you’re struggling with lower leg pain, these Asics running shoes may help, as they’re well-cushioned running shoes and ultra-comfortable. Just be aware that for heavy lifting and agility work, the extra cushioning in these arch support shoes may reduce stability.
What testers say: “I love my Novablast 3. I intended to use it for Tempo runs as it is super responsive but I have since used it for easy runs, tempo runs, speed workouts on the track, long runs, recovery runs, plain walking. I have them at 200 miles now and they still look and feel new.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
adidas Dropset 2 Training Shoes
Best for: Weightlifting
Size range: 5 to 14
Special features: Grippy Traxion outsole; upper is made with 50% recycled content
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
For stability during heavier lifts, consider adidas’ Dropset 2 Training Shoes. These top weightlifting sneakers are designed with a 6 millimeter heel-to-toe drop — a helpful feature for those with limited ankle mobility, as the slight incline decreases stress on the joint. Beyond this, the Dropset 2 trainers have a roomy fit that allows for a healthy toe splay, which is also a key part of creating a stable foundation for lifts, squats, and lunges. A grippy Traxion outsole is the cherry on top, providing traction that nearly glues you to the ground for better balance during isometric holds and more precarious moves like Bulgarian split squats.
What testers say: “I love these. I have been wearing them to do dumbbell workouts at home, walking around everyday and look forward to getting them to the gym soon. They have really helped my back and balance working out and walking. Highly recommend.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT
Nike SuperRep Go 3 Flyknit Next Nature Shoes
Best for: HIIT, plyometrics, boutique classes
Size range: 5 to 15
Special features: Made with 20% recycled materials, packable
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
On Sale 24% off
These responsive sneakers are by far the best HIIT shoes for women to keep you energized all class long. The stretchy Flyknit upper is strategically designed to make these one of the best shoes for ankle support during side-to-side movement — think: lateral shuffles or rotational jump squats. These shoes are so comfortable, you just might like doing burpees in them. Plus, these Nike workout shoes come in a variety of colors so your outfit is perfect from head to toe. A word to the wise: These run a little small.
What testers say: “The most lightweight and comfortable workout shoe that’s also stylish and matches with almost all my workout gear. Will be looking to order additional colors as they are available.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $84
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Under Armour HOVR Phantom 3 SE Shoes
Best for: Running, HIIT, sprints
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Stretchy, pull-on style, external heel counter
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Under Armour’s HOVR Phantom 3 SE cross trainers have two notable features that make them a great pair of shoes for plantar fasciitis. The first is an external heel counter for stability and support, and the second is responsive cushioning that reduces impact on your sensitive plantar fascia. Plus, Hovr technology provides “zero gravity feel” to ward off foot fatigue and keep you moving with ease.
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Related:
Best Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Best Affordable Cross-Training Shoes for Women
adidas Everyset Trainer Shoes
Best for: Gym workouts, walking
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Everyday training shoe with medium balance, cushioning, and stability
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
On Sale 30% off
If you’re a beginner to fitness or heading back to the gym after some time off, the Adidas Everyset cross-training shoes are the perfect do-it-all shoe. Not to mention, the price point is entry-level, too, as these are definitely among the best training shoes for under $100. While still a worthy investment, these Adidas gym shoes are more affordable than many of the $180-plus options on the market. They give you that classic Adidas sneaker look in a functional, well-priced training shoe. The soft and stretchy knit upper allows for excellent airflow for those stuffy gym sessions, while the midsole gives you a perfect balance of cushioning and stability.
What testers say: “Great to workout in, whether doing HIT or strength training, they provide stability and comfort.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $63
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
New Balance Minimus TR Shoes
Best for: Agility training, weight lifting
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Flat, stiff sole, no socks needed
Amazon’s Choice
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
On Sale 22% off
The New Balance Minimus TR has long been a favorite choice as an all-around great cross-training shoe. While they’re minimally cushioned with high sensitivity, they also offer some extra underfoot protection for those who want it. Even so, these minimalist shoes are extremely lightweight. Weighing just six ounces, these help you crush those short sprints and agility drills with ease. Plus, as are many New Balance shoes, the style tends to run narrow, making them a great option if you have narrow feet and other styles tend to make you feel like your feet are bouncing around.
What testers say: “I’ve been a bit of a Goldilocks in my search for the perfect cross trainers for weight lifting and HIIT. These aren’t perfect, but they’re as close as I’ve found after trying low drop shoes from nearly every major shoe company in the past few months.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $101
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Overpronation
Puma PWR XX Nitro Luxe Training Shoes
Best for: Gym workouts, HIIT, treadmill
Size range: 5.5 to 12
Special features: Superior support, nitrogen-infused midsole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Asos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.2/5 stars
On Sale 23% off
The combination of stability and cushioning earn Puma’s XX Nitro Luxe sneakers a spot on this list. You get shock-absorbing technology that protects your joints, and a nitrogen-infused midsole that provides the feel of a cushioned running shoe — needed for those with flat feet from overpronation. The hybrid tread makes these appropriate and safe for indoor and outdoor workouts as well as floor routines and gym machine sets.
What testers say: “I can’t get over these shoes!! They’re so fresh looking and so comfortable. I wear them at the gym for short runs on the treadmill, weight training, and HIIT workouts. They’re PERFECT.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Nobull Gum Trainer+ Sneakers
Best for: CrossFit and weightlifting
Size range: 5 to 11
Special features: Durable one-piece upper; sidewall guards and toe bumper
Nobull Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nobull is known for its CrossFit-friendly gear that’s carefully designed to conquer the plyometric movements during WODs. The Trainer+ sneakers offer more cushioning than the brand’s traditional Trainer sneakers, which contributes to a plusher feel during high impact workouts, all without compromising on stability (starting from the ground up with a gum rubber outsole). The highly durable upper and toe bumpers protect your feet from all angles, while sidewall guards help to keep them in a safe, stable position during heavy lifts. You can clock up to one mile of running in these kicks, too.
What testers say: “These have a wider toe box than the standard trainers which for me is a must have! The stability is amazing yet they’re still mobile enough to go from big lifts to burpees and more agile movements! 10/10 love this shoe!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139
Most Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Bunions
APL Ascend Shoes
Best for: HIIT, boutique classes, hybrid workouts
Size range: 5 to 11
Special features: Supportive, breathable, knit upper
You can find people wearing APL sneakers in just about every workout studio in all major cities. While at first glance the APL Ascend cross-training shoes for women look like super stylish white sneakers for women, they’re actually so much more. The Ascend sneakers are a top pick for any type of HIIT workouts like Barry’s, F45, or Orangetheory Fitness. The brand is known for its signature TechLoom upper, which is specifically engineered for a balance of ventilation and support in these sneakers. It feels like a knit that provides slight stretch for anyone with bunions or feet that swell easily.
What testers say: “This shoe is so cute! Feels like a cushion all around my foot but not super bulky. I sized up half a size because of this. Definitely feels supportive enough for me at the gym or a Barry’s workout class!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $200
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Bad Knees
Brooks Levitate 6 Running Shoes
Best for: Treadmill workouts, walking, HIIT
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Lightweight, high energy-return
Amazon’s Choice
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
If your cross-training involves running but you’re always needing shoes for knee pain, look no further than the Brooks Levitate 6 running shoes that offer superior energy return with its springy design but lightweight cushioning. The plush feel protects your knees from the impact caused by many cross-training workouts without sacrificing your intensity.
While technically a running shoe, it doubles nicely as a cross trainer due to its stability. A stretchy upper offers the breathability you need during sweaty workouts, and the unique arrow-shaped design on the outsole allows for quick transitions — much needed during quick-paced classes.
What testers say: “I really love how comfortable and supportive these shoes feel while working out; cross-training, walking/running whatever workout I’m doing. I believe I’ve found my ‘sole mate’”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for WeightLifting
Reebok Nano X3 Shoes
Best for: Olympic weightlifting, strength training, running
Size range: 5 to 11
Special features: Tons of colors, unique heel feature for stability while lifting and bounce while running
Amazon’s Choice
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
On Sale 30% off
Whether you’re a competitive CrossFit athlete or weekend weightlifting warrior, the Reebok Nano X3 is one of the most trusted fitness shoes for just about any form of training. Rearfoot stability is top notch. And a lightweight heel clip keeps the foot locked in and prevents unnecessary movements, which is key for those who need a pair of squat shoes.
The Nano X3’s have a unique Lift and Run Chassis system, which is a dome-shaped heel piece that compresses under load when lifting for stability, but then softens and springs to help you push off when you’re running. Consider these Reebok sneakers the perfect hybrid cross-training shoe for women.
What testers say: “This is the best shoe for training. I love it for running, box jumps, lifting and everything else. It’s hard to find a training shoe that works for everything. I will be buying in more colors.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet
Altra Solstice XT 2 Shoes
Best for: Gym workouts, boutique classes, cardio machines
Size range: 5.5 to 12
Special features: Wide toe box
Amazon’s Choice
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Altra shoes have long been a fan-favorite for runners looking for shoes for wide feet. The brand’s famed FootShape toe box allows for full, natural toe splay. Grooves in the midsole and outsole give the shoe a good amount of flexibility, which extends into the upper as well.
The Altra Solstice XT 2 offers peak comfort no matter what cross-training workout you’re doing. From the stair climber to the elliptical, these best shoes for weight training and cardio work for all kinds of cardio machines at the gym, but it’s also great for strength training on cable machines or using dumbbells. If you love hopping on a stationary bike for your cross-training workouts, consider these some of the best indoor cycling shoes.
What testers say: “Very comfortable, and cute! I definitely appreciate the wide toe box, and the stylish looks. Many wide toe box, “barefoot” shoes, are also kinda clunky looking, but not these.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Heel Support
On Cloud X 3 AD Shoes
Best for: Multi-sport workouts, agility training, lateral movements, running
Size range: 5 to 11
Special features: outsole design offers stable movement in all planes
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
On sneakers are designed with a unique technology called CloudTec which promotes the natural rolling motion of the foot and facilitates efficient energy transfer from landing to take-off. The result is a minimally cushioned footbed that provides deep-seated heel support and high-energy return. The Cloud X 3 AD sneakers are slightly stiffer than the previous iteration of the shoes, which makes them more stable and durable on pavement for both training and running sessions. The Cloud X 3 AD sneakers are made with a knit-weave mesh upper that provides lightweight breathability and the brand’s Zero-Gravity Clouds on the outsole, which feature abrasion pads for superior grip and increased durability.
What testers say: “I bought these two weeks ago and have worn them nearly every day!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Rykä No Limit Training Shoes
Best for: Agility workouts, weightlifting
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: Available in two widths; designed specifically for women
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Rykä creates workout shoes exclusively for women, factoring in mind female anatomy, foot shape, and muscle movements with each pair of shoes. Many weightlifting shoes are zero drop, which provides a solid foundation for deadlifts but can feel clunky during a treadmill workout. If you’re always angling for a cardio machine during your cross-training workout, the No Limit Training Shoes are a great fit — these shoes support healthy alignment while you run (thanks to an 8 millimeter drop that encourage a solid foot strike), and are also equipped with stability features for agile and lateral movements on the mat.
What testers say: “I generally cross train (free weights, machines, walk, elliptical) and find these sneakers to have excellent support and comfort. Zero break in period, which is how it should be.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Hiking
Salewa Ultra Train 3 W Hiking Shoes
Best for: Hiking, trail running
Size range: 6 to 10.5
Special features: Motion guidance-technology, anti-slip outsole
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Backcountry Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
If your idea of cross-training involves anything in the mountains, the Salewa Ultra Train 3 W shoe is for you. This lightweight, low-top hiker will keep your feet glued to the ground and give you the traction and confidence needed to crush those day hikes. Try them out as trail-running shoes, and you’ll see how these cross-training shoes for women can take on whatever challenge you ask of them. They aren’t called “speed hiking” shoes for nothing.
Price upon publish date of this article: $70
Related:
Best Hiking Boots for Women
Best Hiking Boots for Men
What to Look for in the Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes
When shopping for your perfect pair, it’s important to consider the types of cross-training activities you’ll be doing. Multifaceted cross-training shoes need to be “jack of all trades” shoes. Compared to modality-specific shoes, they’re more versatile and capable of handling a broad range of activities and movements. These are the key features to look for when shopping for crossing training shoes for women:
Lateral support: You’ll likely be moving in multiple planes of motion during your cross-training workouts, particularly if you’re doing HIIT classes. Shoes with good lateral support will ensure you don’t twist an ankle, while also still being able to move freely and efficiently.
Heel stability: “A good cross-training shoe includes lateral support and heel lockdown for multi-directional movements, so that your foot is kept in place and secure,” says Wentzien.
Flexibility: You’ll likely need to react quickly during many of your cross-training workouts. Whether that’s an interval run on the treadmill or a plyometrics workout focused on producing power, you need a shoe that will move with you. “Flexibility and cushioning are also key, so that your foot can move naturally and freely, which helps when quickly changing directions or balancing,” says Wentzien.
Mild heel-to-toe drop: Most weightlifting shoes are designed with a low heel-to-toe drop to encourage stability during heavy lifts, however running shoes often have a higher drop to facilitate an efficient foot strike. Cross-training shoes should fall somewhere in the middle — a 4 to 6 millimeter drop is suitable for most foot types across cardio workouts and weightlifting exercises.
Cushioning: “Cross-training involves lifting, running, jumping, climbing and a range of other functional movements, so the shoe needs to be stable, flexible, durable and responsive all at the same time,” says Calvert.
The Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions
If you suffer from common foot problems, you’ll want to look for additional support features to help you stay comfortable and healthy.
Best women’s cross-training shoes for bunions: People with bunions should look for “mesh sneakers or any styles with a forgiving material,” says Dr. Sutera. “Oftentimes, going up a wider size, if necessary, is also more comfortable.”
Best women’s cross-training shoes for high arches: If you have high arches, you’ll need a shoe with lots of cushioning to disperse force and reduce the chance of injury.
Best women’s cross-training shoes for HIIT: Look for a shoe that has a good balance of cushion and stability. You may also want a higher-top shoe (similar to boxing shoes) for greater ankle support while moving laterally. You want a shoe that is versatile, lightweight, and flexible.
Best women’s cross-training shoes for narrow feet: Read online reviews for certain brands or styles to get a sense of which might be known to fit a narrow foot, such as New Balance. Brands that run wide, such as Altra Running, may be better suited for those who need a little more space.
Best women’s cross-training shoes for overpronation: Cushion is your friend if you suffer from overpronation or need shoes for flat feet. You want to avoid excessive pressure on your plantar fascia and other sensitive tissue on the soles of your feet. A stability running shoe with cushioning is a solid choice.
Best women’s cross-training shoes for plantar fasciitis: “People with heel spurs and plantar fasciitis should avoid shoes with thin, flat insoles and outer soles,” says Dr. Sutera. “Look for styles with a deep seated heel cup, arch support and a cushioned insole [for proper structure and support].” You can also retrofit your favorite pair with plantar fasciitis insoles for a more comfortable feel.
How We Chose the Best Women’s Cross-Training Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
For a streamlined shopping experience, we’ve compiled the best cross-trainer shoes for women based on expert recommendations, user reviews, and product testing. We also consulted experts about which cross-training shoes were best for people with certain foot types or conditions. Customer reviews and footwear market research also helped us make the final selections. The bottom line is you can feel good knowing that this list includes the best of the best cross-training shoes for women no matter what workout you choose to tackle next. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Grace Wentzien is the project line manager for women’s train footwear at Under Armour. She’s been in the role since 2020 and has been with the company since 2016.
Fran Calvert is the UK-based training marketing manager at inov-8 and a competitive CrossFit athlete. She has competed at the CrossFit Games Meridian Regionals on several occasions. Prior to joining the inov-8 team, she worked in sports nutrition and was the communications manager for British Weight Lifting.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a New York-based podiatrist specializing in the prevention and treatment of foot pathology. She is a Vionic Innovation Lab member, as well as a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and a member and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New York State Podiatric Medical Society.
Meet the Author
Alyssa Sparacino is a content strategist, editor, and writer with a focus on fitness, health, and wellness with more than a decade of experience in digital media. She most recently held the role of editorial director at Shape. Her writing has been published in outlets including Shape, Health, What to Expect, Men’s Journal, Travel & Leisure, and more. Sparacino holds a personal training certification with the American Council on Exercise. Her extensive knowledge and experience covering the fitness and health industries informed this list of the best cross-training shoes for women.
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