Whether you’re a frequent gym-goer or are looking to incorporate going more exercise in your weekly routine, one workout essential you need is a pair of quality shoes to get you through each session — and not all sneakers are supportive enough to do the job.
Who better to get recommendations from than people who are in the gym every day? To help you get your feet on the right track the next time you hit the gym, we asked fitness experts, including trainers and instructors who really know their stuff, to give us their top picks for the best gym shoes.
The best gym shoe is durable enough to hold up for your most intense fitness days, has the correct kind of support for your foot shape and has construction designed to enhance the type of workout you’re engaging in. Activities such as HIIT, cross-training, weightlifting, squats and running will yield better results — and reduce the possibility of you getting hurt — with the right shoe.
“I use different shoes for different training. I see shoes not only as a way to keep my feet protected and healthy, but also as a way to amplify my power and stability,” said Justice Williams, a Boston, Massachusetts-based lead trainer at Fitness4AllBodies.
The footwear options below are suitable for all types of fitness tasks, and a few experts say they wear them for running, too.
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For weightlifting
Designed specifically for weightlifting, this lightweight shoe provides the security and stability you need for strengthening. It's constructed with straps, laces and a rubber outsole to keep your feet in place. This unisex shoe is available in four colors — red, white, blue and black — and comes in women's 5-15 and men's 4-14.
For speed and stability
Available in multiple colors, including burgundy, cream, teal, navy blue, pink/black, orange and black, this training shoe's wide heel design gives you a stable base for weight lifting. It's available in women's 5-15 and sizes 3.5-20.
For a 'barely there' feel while strength training
"I like a Nike Free for the ‘barefoot’ feel that gives a flat surface (similar to a Converse or Vans) but with a bit more flexibility and support should your programming incorporate things like squat jumps or faster lateral movements. If you’re doing HIIT training you might, however, opt for a shoe with a bit more foot and ankle support," said Thea Hughes, a New York City-based functional strength coach and founder of Max Effort.
This breathable running shoe has reinforced material on the sides where the shoe laces loop through to keep your foot secure and stable. It comes in multiple colors including black, white/red, dark blue, khaki and black/cream. The shoe is available in women's 5-12 and sizes 6-15.
For casual gym activities (women's only)
These shoes are available in women's sizes 5-13 and in an array of colors like black, peach, blue, gray, all-white and pastel pink. With four-way stretch for maximum flexibility in the upper part and cushioning in the mid and outsole, your feet will be comfortable and supported while you move.
For arch support during gym activities (women's only)
The structure of this lightweight shoe was intentionally designed for women's feet because it's been proven that on average, men's feet are structurally different than women's. 3D foot scans were used to create a custom fit that hugs feet and gives arch support. The upper is made of soft knit and the interior even has a plush sock liner for added comfort. It comes in women's 5-12 and in white, pink, black/silver, black/teal and black/orange.
For everyday gym sessions (women's only)
Made for cross-training, this lace-up shoe has a memory insole to last through even extra-long sessions. There are also elastic bands on each side of the shoe for added security. It comes in women's sizes 5-12 with wide options available and in multiple colors like black, gray, black/white, and white/pink.