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The cross-training shoe market can seem overwhelming and endless at times, especially if you’re new to cross-training shoes.
Instead of hitting you with countless options that lack context, I’ve broken this article into specific performance sub-categories to help you navigate the best cross-training shoes for your needs.
More specifically, this article is designed to help men find the best cross-training shoes for their training needs. All of the models included have their own list of pros and cons, and whether you’re a guy looking into the best CrossFit shoes or cross-training shoes for narrow feet, this article will have you covered.
Below, I’m breaking my best men’s cross-training shoe picks into 9 sub-categories that select models based on their specific fit and performance.
Contents
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes Overall
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for High Arches
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for CrossFit
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for Runners
- Best Men's Cross-Training Shoes for Bad Knees
- Are Cross-Training Shoes Necessary?
- How Should Cross-Training Shoes Fit?
On the market for new cross-training shoes? Make you check out my TF2 Cross-Training Shoe Finder. This calculator takes the best models I’ve reviewed and matches you with shoes for your training wants and needs.
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes Overall
When assessing training shoes to earn my top pick as the best men’s cross-training overall, I’m most interested in how well-rounded a shoe is. For example, can it support my heaviest training sessions while also being a good option for HIIT workouts and shorter runs?
A lot of cross-training shoes can technically work for these tasks, but I wanted to know what is currently the best of the best? Below are two of my favorite cross-training shoes for men.
Top Pick: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
The STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer is earning my top pick as being the best men’s cross-training shoe overall. This shoe is what I would describe as a sneaky strong performer and it works well in a variety of training settings.
In fact, I’m wearing them now as I write this round-up at my local coffee shop and using them as my daily wear shoes because they’re comfortable, and I’m going to wear them for my deadlift day in a few hours because their midsole and outsole stability are really good.
In my opinion, the Haze Trainer’s claim to fame is its Cush50 midsole and Cross Platform 2 outsole construction. The blend of these two gives this shoe a nice level of articulation which is awesome for training, daily wear, and tackling shorter runs (<1-2 miles).
I describe this shoe as being a really good “minimalist” style cross-training shoe while also providing a nice level of comfort. The only caveat to the Haze Trainer is its price, but if you’re looking for a strong trainer and don’t mind the price, then I think the Haze Trainer is worth it.
- Best For: All-Around Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 11.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer Review
STRIKE MVMNT Haze Trainer
$150
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Cross-Training Workouts
- Athletic-Focused Sessions
- Shorter Runs (<3 miles)
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Custom Orthotics
Runner-Up: RAD ONE
My second pick for the best men’s cross-training shoe overall is the RAD ONE. This model is relatively newer to the cross-training shoe scene and they’re worth looking into as a good all-around cross-training shoe that also excels for CrossFit.
I think if you’re a guy that likes to vary their training every week with a slight bias towards CrossFit workouts, then the RAD ONE will be a good pick for your needs. This shoe does a good job of walking a fine line between being stable and versatile.
The major callouts in the RAD ONE are the Swell Foam midsole and rubber outsole wrap. The Swell Foam does a good job of giving you a nice bounce while the rubber outsole wrap does a great job at prolonging this shoe’s durability and assisting with rope climbs.
I also like the upper and the silhouette in this shoe and it has a nice “classic” look similar to the Haze Trainer. The caveat to the RAD ONE, like the Haze Trainer, is its slightly higher price point.
- Best For: All-Around Training and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 12.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: R.A.D recommends going up a half size, I went true and they fit fine (more on that in my review article)
- Read My Review: R.A.D ONE Review
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet
When testing and assessing the best men’s cross-training shoes for wide feet I’m concerned with two key performance and construction aspects. First and foremost, is the shoe wide enough for a variety of foot anatomies?
Second, I assess what types of training the shoe is best for and how it fits into different training contexts. If you can understand the best uses for a wide-fitting cross-training shoe, then you can select models that fit your needs best.
Top Pick: Reebok Nano X2
The Reebok Nano X2 is taking my top spot as being a good all-around cross-training shoe for wider feet. This model’s width should work for most foot anatomies and I’d describe its width as being neutral and slightly wider.
The Reebok Nano X2 works for a variety of training contexts and I describe it in my reviews as being a strong general training shoe. This model can support heavier training and it’s comfortable and responsive enough for HIIT workouts and short runs (<3 miles).
This model features Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam in its midsole and this material gives you a nice “bounce” when jumping and doing explosive work. The full rubber outsole with lugs is also nice for providing additional traction and tread on different surfaces.
I think if you’re in the market for a good “all-in-one” style cross-training shoe that works for wide feet, then the Reebok Nano X2 is a good option to look into. The only caveat to the Nano X2 is that it does fall short for rope climbing and more serious CrossFit workouts.
- Best For: General Training and Wider Feet
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: For wider feet, you should be safe going true-to-size in the Nano X2.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
$135
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Runner-Up: Altra Solstice XT 2
My second cross-training shoe pick for wide feet is the Altra Solstice XT 2. This model is one of the widest cross-training shoes on the market and it has a few key construction features that make it great for certain contexts and are important to note.
For starters, this model features a 0mm heel-to-toe drop so if you like a lower drop or want to use this model as a transition shoe from traditional training shoes to barefoot shoes, then the Altra Solstice XT 2 can be a really good option to look into.
Another aspect to note is that this shoe is a really good pick for anyone that varies their training every week and primarily trains indoors. This shoe’s midsole and outsole provide a nice level of maneuverability for HIIT workouts, classes, and casual lifting.
I think if you’re wanting a comfortable training shoe with a lower drop that can work well in most training settings for wide feet, then the Altra Solstice XT 2 is worth looking into. The main caveat with this shoe is its durability for outdoor training on concrete, so keep an eye on this if you plan to use them outdoors.
- Best For: Wide Feet, HIIT Workouts, Recreational Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 9.5 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Altra Solstice XT 2 Review
Altra Solstice XT 2
$130
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Workouts
- Classes
- Wide Weet
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Heavy Lifting
- For CrossFit
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet
To test and assess the best men’s cross-training shoes for flat feet I’m most concerned with how a shoe’s sole provides support for flat feet in different workout contexts.
Below are two of my top picks for flat feet, and if you’re interested in more flat-feet-friendly training shoes, then I’d suggest checking out my best cross-training shoes for flat feet round-up.
Top Pick: NOBULL Trainer+
The NOBULL Trainer+ is taking my top spot as being a good cross-training to explore if you have flat feet. This model provides more support than the traditional NOBULL Trainer and can be a good option for those with flat feet in need of additional sole support.
This model features a thicker EVA midsole and whether you’re lifting, walking, standing, or tackling short runs (<1-2 miles), you should get adequate support from this shoe. For context, this model was designed to be more comfortable and supportive compared to other NOBULL Trainers.
Another aspect to like about the NOBULL Trainer+ is its width and upper volume. If you use custom orthotics and insoles, then you should be safe using them in this model without feeling limited due to space.
The reworked outsole is also a nice feature for additional grip and prolonging this shoe’s durability when training outdoors or using these as daily wear shoes. The one caveat with this shoe is that they can feel a little clunky at times for explosive exercises and HIIT training.
- Best For: Flat Feet, General Training, and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 12.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: NOBULL Trainer+ Review
NOBULL Trainer+
$139
Best For
- Cross-Training Style Workouts
- CrossFit
- Recreational Lifting
Falls Short
- For Versatile Training
- For Cost-Efficiency
Runner-Up: Reebok Nano X2
The Reebok Nano X2 is making my list for the second time and it’s a good option to explore if have flat feet. The Nano X2 is a good pick for flat feet for two key reasons and these include its heel clips and sole construction.
Compared to the Reebok Nano X1, the Reebok Nano X2 has received a nice update to its heel clips and their construction. In the Nano X2, the heel clips extend from the midfoot and finish around the base of the heel and they provide a nice level of midfoot support.
The sole is also good for flat feet because it walks a fine line between being stable and supportive but maneuverable enough to promote some natural movement. This feature is what makes the Nano X2 a good option for walking and standing all day.
If you need a good flat feet-friendly cross-training shoe, then the Reebok Nano X2 is a good option to look into. The supportive heel clips and stable yet responsive midsole and outsole give this shoe a good dynamic fit and feel.
- Best For: General Training, Flatter, and Wider Feet
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: For wider feet, you should be safe going true-to-size in the Nano X2.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
$135
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for High Arches
When testing cross-training shoes that are good for high arches I’m most concerned with two aspects including a shoe’s overall arch support and how well a shoe performs in certain contexts and settings.
Arch support can be huge for those with high arch support and can be a make or break for a shoe’s overall comfort and performance.
Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 is taking my top pick as the best men’s cross-training shoe for high arches. This model’s last construction typically works really well and is best for those that want and need a little arch support when training.
The F-Lite G 300 delivers a good versatile construction and performance, so it’s a good training shoe for a little bit of everything. This model’s midsole is stable for heavier strength training and it works well for cross-training and CrossFit.
I also think you’ll enjoy this model if you typically like bootie-style construction shoes. This shoe has a glove-like fit and the TPU midfoot cage provides a nice level of security for explosive training and it helps protect the midfoot of this shoe.
If you’re wanting a training shoe that works for high arches that can wear for pretty much everything, then I think you’ll enjoy the F-Lite G 300. It’s versatile, stable, and does a good job regarding durability for most training contexts.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 12.3 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 Review
Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
$150
Best For
- Versatile Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Shorter Runs
- Plyometrics
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Runner-Up: OluKai Mio Li
The OluKai Mio Li is taking my second spot as the best cross-training shoe for high arches. This shoe’s insole and construction provide a really good amount of arch support and it works well in certain training contexts.
This model’s insole is built with dual-density foam and an additional gel insert. Of all the cross-training shoes I’ve tested and reviewed, this model’s insole has provided me with some stellar arch support and I think it will work best for medium and high arches.
For general cross-training, I think the OluKai Mio Li will work well. This model’s foam midsole does a good job of providing some stability and some “pop” when doing plyometrics and HIIT workouts.
I also like the Drop-In Heel construction in this shoe and how easy it makes this model to slip on and wear as loafers for casual daily wear. The main caveat to the OluKai Mio Li is that they will fall short with serious training, so I’d suggest keeping your training more casual in these shoes.
- Best For: General Training and High Arches
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8.5mm
- Weight: 11.25 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size.
- Read My Review: OluKai Mio Li Review
OluKai Mio Li
$130
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Cross-Training Sessions
- Light and Short Runs
- Daily Wear
- High Arches
Falls Short
- For CrossFit
- For Heavy Barbell Training
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
When testing cross-training shoes that excel for narrow feet I try to compare how a model fits compared to its peers, then I cross-reference its performance to contextualize its best uses.
If you have narrow feet, then the last thing you want is a cross-training shoe that has too much width that leaves you swimming in the model.
Top Pick: Nike Metcon 7
My top cross-training shoe pick for narrow feet is the Nike Metcon 7. Do note, the Nike Metcon 8 works well, too, but I think the 7 is better. For narrow and even neutral-width feet, the Nike Metcon 7 is a really good option to look into and it performs strongly in a variety of contexts.
The Nike Metcon cross-training shoe line is known for its width and slightly lower-profile boot and design. These construction features give this shoe a nice “athletic” fit that gives it a sock-like feel.
The best part about the Nike Metcon 7 is that it works well for heavy lifting, CrossFit, HIIT workouts, short runs (<1 mile), and sprints. If you vary your training often and need a high-performing cross-training shoe, then the Nike Metcon 7 is a good pick.
Another perk of this model compared to other cross-training is its durability for CrossFit and things like rope climbs. If you like adding in rope climbing work or CrossFit sessions here and there, then you’ll enjoy the Nike Mecon 7’s performance.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 12.4 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Nike Metcon 7 Review
Nike Metcon 7
$130
Best For
- Heavy Training
- CrossFit Workouts
- Rope Climbs
- Plyos and Agility Workouts
- Short Runs
Falls Short
- For Long-Distance Runs
- For Wider Feet
Runner-Up: UA TriBase Reign 4
The UA TriBase Reign 4 is another good cross-training shoe option for narrow feet. Compared to the UA TriBase Reign 2 and 3, the 4 was actually made to be a little wider, but relatively speaking, it’s a good pick for narrow feet.
This model features a lower heel-to-toe drop at 2mm and has a good midsole and outsole construction for blending stability and versatility. This shoe’s midsole is made with Under Armour’s Micro G Foam and I think most will enjoy the stability they get from this model.
The TriBase tech on the outsole of this shoe is also a nice feature for promoting stability and balance in different training settings. I also like that the UA TriBase Reign 4 can hold its own in CrossFit workouts regarding its durability and performance.
I think if you prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop and like to vary your training every week and regularly tackle CrossFit workouts, then you’ll enjoy the TriBase Reign 4’s performance. The one caveat to this shoe is that it can feel a little blocky when tackling explosive lateral work.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2mm
- Weight: 13 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: UA TriBase Reign 4 Review
UA TriBase Reign 4
$120
Best For
- CrossFit and Cross-Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
Falls Short
- For Wider Feet
- For Longer Runs
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for CrossFit
When testing and assessing the best men’s cross-training shoes for CrossFit the name of the game is CrossFit workouts and how a shoe holds up for their varied demands.
More specifically, I’m assessing a shoe’s stability for heavy lifting, versatility for plyometrics and short runs, and its ability to be durable for CrossFit workouts that often come with high levels of abrasion.
1. RAD ONE
The RAD ONE cross-training shoe is making my list for the second time as being one of the better models for CrossFit workouts. Despite being newer on the CrossFit shoe scene, the RAD ONE has demonstrated that it is very much for real.
As a whole, the RAD ONE ticks all of the boxes that you’d want in a good cross-training shoe for CrossFit. For starters, the upper construction and outsole wrap prolongs this shoe’s durability and makes them great for rope climbs.
Additionally, the Swell Foam midsole is stable enough for supporting heavy squats, deadlifts, cleans, and snatches while also providing enough responsiveness for box jumps and double-unders.
If you want a good all-around cross-training shoe for CrossFit, then I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in the RAD ONE. Plus, they’re a smaller company and use some responsibly sourced materials which is a subtle perk of this model.
- Best For: All-Around Training and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 12.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: R.A.D recommends going up a half size, I went true and they fit fine (more on that in my review article)
- Read My Review: R.A.D ONE Review
R.A.D ONE
$150
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- CrossFit Workouts
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Training
- Athletic-Focused Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Wider Feet
Runner-Up: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
In all honesty, I think the Haze Trainer or RAD ONE could easily both fulfill the top spot for CrossFit and I regularly rotate my pairs for CrossFit training. I think if you’re someone that prioritizes “feel” in their shoes when tackling CrossFit workouts, then the Haze Trainer would be your best bet.
For CrossFit specifically, I enjoy how this shoe performs when tackling any form of lifting. The toe box moves well and there’s good width in the toe box for splaying the toes and fully gripping the floor.
The durability of the Haze Trainer is also really solid for CrossFit workouts. The 3D jacquard knit upper resists abrasion pretty well and these shoes do a fairly good job at supporting rope climbing performance and prolonging durability.
I think if you’re a guy on the market for a cross-training shoe and prioritize feel when lifting and a shoe that you can also wear for daily wear settings, then the Haze Trainer will be your best bet.
- Best For: All-Around Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 11.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer Review
STRIKE MVMNT Haze Trainer
$150
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Cross-Training Workouts
- Athletic-Focused Sessions
- Shorter Runs (<3 miles)
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Custom Orthotics
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT
When testing the best men’s cross-training shoes for HIIT my main focus is on a shoe’s ability to perform highly in HIIT workouts and settings while also remaining comfortable.
I look for shoes that prioritize midsole constructions that deliver a high level of responsiveness and outsoles that are durable and provide adequate traction and tread.
Top Pick: Reebok Nano X2
The Reebok Nano X2 is taking my top pick as the best cross-training shoes for men wanting a model for HIIT workouts. I like the Nano X2 for this performance context because they can transcend outside of HIIT-only settings.
For example, the Nano X2’s Floatride Energy Foam midsole works for things like kettlebell training and plyometrics due to its responsive versatility, and it can hold its own for heavier strength sessions.
The rubber lug patterned outsole on the Nano X2 also helps deliver a strong performance for HIIT workouts. It grips the floor really well and if you’re training on wood floors in a class or on rubber gym floors or turf, you shouldn’t struggle with traction issues.
Another thing to like about the Reebok Nano X2 regarding its performance is that it should resonate well with men with thicker and wider feet. For example, this model tends to fit a little wider compared to models from Nike, Adidas, and PUMA.
- Best For: Recreational Lifting, HIIT, Agility, and Lighter Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
$135
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Runner-Up: UA HOVR Rise 4
The UA HOVR Rise 4 is another great option for HIIT training and I think this model will be best for those that like having a bit more cushion in their HIIT sessions. If you like more stability, go with the Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 and for more “bounce” go HOVR Rise 4.
This shoe’s main callouts for HIIT training include its outsole and midsole construction. This shoe features Under Armour’s HOVR technology in the midsole and this feature provides this shoe with a nice “bounce” for jumping and explosive movements.
The outsole features Under Armour’s TriBase tech which is nice for promoting overall stability and balance. When doing lateral work and single-leg work, I like how this shoe’s outsole helps me feel grounded.
I think if you’re a guy that regularly tackles classes, HIIT workouts, short runs (<3 miles), and some light to moderate lifting every week, then the HOVR Rise 3 will be a good pick for you. The main drawback to this model is its midsole durability for outdoor training on concrete, so keep this in mind if you invest in this model.
- Best For: Jump Rope, HIIT, and Classes
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 11.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: No
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: UA HOVR Rise 4 Review
UA HOVR Rise 4
$110
Best For
- HIIT Workouts
- Class-Style Training
- Light to Moderate Lifting
- Short Runs
- Daily Wear/Walking
Falls Short
- For Heavy Lifting
- For CrossFit-Style Training
- For Long-Term Durability
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for Runners
When discussing and reviewing the best cross-training shoes for runners I’m considering how a shoe will perform for running and how it will feel when training compared to other running shoes that someone may be used to.
By considering these two aspects, I’m able to make the best picks for runners that would like to run a little bit in their cross-training shoes while also feeling confident in the shoe’s ability to perform in a variety of contexts.
Top Pick: STR/KE MVMNT Vimana Hybrid Runner
The STR/KE MVMNT Hybrid Runner is a really good niche training shoe that can also excel for running. This model is designed to tackle cross-training sessions while also being able to hold its own for casual trail and road runs.
The Vimana Hybrid Runner features STR/KE MVMNT’s Cush50 midsole which is composed of a blend of EVA/EPE materials. This blend gives this shoe a nice level of responsiveness for both lifting and running.
I like using this model most when hitting a training session, then going straight into tackling quicker 5k trail runs. It’s a good hybrid training shoe for both contexts and I don’t have to bring separate shoes for these training days.
If you’re on the market for a more minimalist and hybrid-style training shoe, then the STR/KE MVMNT Vimana Hybrid Runner is a good option to look into. They work well for a variety of training contexts and excel for daily wear, too.
- Best For: Trail Runs, Road Runs, Lifting, Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 10.8 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: STR/KE MVMNT Vimana Hybrid Runner Review
STR/KE MVMNT Vimana Hybrid Runner
$160
Best For
- Trail Runs (Easy to Semi-Technical Terrain)
- Short to Mid-Range Road Runs
- Recreational Training
- Outdoor Workouts
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Highly Technical Trail Runs
Runner-Up: NOBULL Ripstop Runner
Another good option to look into if you’re interested in a shoe for tackling some light cross-training sessions and running is the NOBULL Ripstop Runner. While this shoe isn’t a true cross-training shoe, it does work well for light lifting and bodyweight workouts.
For example, if you’re someone that wants a shoe for track workouts where you’re going to be blending running together with bodyweight training or kettlebell circuits, then the Ripstop Runner can be a good option to explore.
This model features a high-rebound phylon midsole so you get a nice level of pop from this shoe’s midsole and if you’re wanting a shoe for quicker-paced 5ks and mid-range runs, then the Ripstop Runner could be worth exploring.
The NOBULL Ripstop Runner is also decent for daily wear and features a 10mm heel-to-toe drop which could be a good thing for those that like having a higher drop for walking, daily wear, and running.
- Best For: Bodyweight Workouts, Short Runs, Mid-Range Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 11.1 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: NOBULL Ripstop Runner Review
NOBULL Ripstop Runner
$149
Best For
- Casual Outdoor Runs
- Treadmill Running
- Daily Wear
- Longer Walks
Falls Short
- For Serious Running Workouts
- For Wider Footed Runners
Best Men’s Cross-Training Shoes for Bad Knees
When considering the topic of cross-training shoes for bad knees I’m trying to be conscious of the wide range of definitions that come along with “bad knees” for lifters and athletes.
As someone who’s struggled with countless knee injuries (near full quad rupture on my left leg), I get the importance of having good training shoes for mitigating knee discomfort when training. Do note, that knee discomfort can come in all forms and it’s always a good idea to work with someone in person when assessing footwear for “bad knees”.
That being said, below are two good men’s cross-training shoes for bad knees options to get you started on your search for a good pair of trainers for your specific needs.
1. Altra Solstice XT 2
The Altra Solstice XT 2 can be a really good option to explore if you’re constantly navigating knee discomfort while training. I like this model for this context for three key reasons.
First, this shoe’s width is nice for allowing the feet to fully splay and interact with the ground. This can potentially be useful for building the feet’s musculature slowly and increasing the surface area that you have to train on.
Second, the midsole and outsole move well and provide a nice blend of cushion and support. This feature can be nice for mitigating ground reaction forces for a wide range of activities.
Third and lastly, the heel-to-toe drop in this model is 0mm which could be useful in some contexts where knee discomfort is present in training. If flat shoes feel better for you when training, walking and running, then this model is worth exploring.
- Best For: Wide Feet, HIIT Workouts, Recreational Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 9.5 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Altra Solstice XT 2 Review
Altra Solstice XT 2
$130
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Workouts
- Classes
- Wide Weet
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Heavy Lifting
- For CrossFit
2. Reebok Nano X2
The Reebok Nano X2 could also be a viable option to explore if you have knee discomfort and need a good general training shoe. Unlike the Altra Solstice XT 2, this model has a slightly higher drop at 7mm so if you like higher drops, then this model could work well for you.
The Floatride Energy Foam midsole does a good job of promoting stability and cushion for different training settings. This shoe doesn’t feel overly firm when jumping and it provides enough support when lifting.
I also like the heel clips on this model and the additional support that can provide for the midfoot. These can be useful for anyone that needs a little extra structure in their shoes when tackling single-leg exercises and work.
If you’re considering the Reebok Nano X2, then I’d suggest trying them on in-store before investing if you can. This way you can wear them and see if they align with your training needs and goals.
- Best For: General Training, Flatter, and Wider Feet
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: For wider feet, you should be safe going true-to-size in the Nano X2.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
$135
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Are Cross-Training Shoes Necessary?
While no rule says cross-training shoes are absolutely necessary for training, I think it can be useful investing in a good pair that matches the context of your training needs and wants well.
As a strength coach, I often discuss and take the approach of using the right tools for the job when it comes to strength equipment and gear. For example, let’s say you’re planning to regularly lift, tackle HIIT workouts, and even perform short runs all in one workout, then using a pair of cross-training shoes will be a really good idea.
Could you use something like running shoes for this style of training? Sure, but their performance will always be limited and capped due to their level of specificity with their construction.
This is similar to the idea of using a pair of general training shoes for CrossFit workouts. The more general the training shoes are, the more prone they’ll be to breaking down or not matching the CrossFit-specific tasks at hand.
That all being said, investing in the right pair of cross-training shoes for your needs and taking care of them will both support your training goals/performance and your investment.
How Should Cross-Training Shoes Fit?
When looking into investing in a new pair of cross-training shoes for men, I often recommend sizing your shoes so you have between .2″-6″ of clearance at the end of your toe box.
This length will generally be enough to promote a nice “locked-down” feeling while also not feeling too tight or too loose and running into the issue of heel slip.
When it comes to sizing and fit, it’s important to recognize that everyone’s shoes will fit differently based on one’s foot shape, length, width, and personal fit and feel preferences.
Sizing, especially between different cross-training shoes, can be overwhelming so if you need additional sizing help with any cross-training shoe mentioned in this article, drop a comment below and I can help you out accordingly.
How I Test and Review Cross-Training Shoes
Every cross-training shoe featured in this article has been personally tested by me and every model has an individual review designed for providing more depth on whatever pair of shoes you’re interested in.
When testing cross-training shoes, I perform similar baseline tests to assess stability, versatility, and durability, then I perform specific tests based on how the cross-training shoe is intended to be used.
For example, every shoe receives similar lifting tests to assess midsole and outsole stability, then as a shoe gets more niche, I’ll ebb and flow the tests accordingly.
A good example would be assessing the stability in the UA HOVR Rise 3 versus the Haze Trainer. Both models are designed for different contexts. So when lifting, I’ll stop loading in the HOVR Rise 3 once I notice compression, then I’ll continue with heavier sets for the Haze Trainer since it’s marketed as a more stable cross-training shoe.
Outside of these tests, I’m also keeping an eye on how versatile a shoe is for different training contexts and noting the durability of the shoe’s upper, midsole, and outsole. This can then further direct my efforts to identify which cross-training shoes work best in certain contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:What is the difference between a cross trainer and a running shoe?
Q:Can I wear training shoes everyday?
Takeaway Thoughts
There are endless cross-training shoe options on the market and every model will come with its own list of pros and cons. When looking into the best men’s cross-training shoes, I’d suggest identifying your core cross-training shoe needs, then looking into models that fit best for your context.
Since every cross-training shoe is built slightly differently and will perform accordingly to its construction, then I think it can be really useful for your investment to find the correct models for your specific wants.
If you have additional questions on any of the cross-training shoes mentioned in this article, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly).
