I personally buy and test every product featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training gear. I buy the gear I test and may earn commissions on sales made through links on my site.
It can be overwhelming when looking into new shoes for strength training. We all have different strength training goals, levels of strength, and shoe preferences, which can make the search for new strength training shoes even more tedious.
Plus, when considering the best shoes for strength training, we have to consider how wide that range can be. For example, some lifters prefer the tried and true Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star while others prefer a good stable cross-training shoe.
Below, I’m going to provide a plethora of my favorite shoe picks for strength training. The models I’ve included in this article are all training shoes that work really well in different strength training contexts.
In this best shoes for strength training round-up, I’m going to break my top picks into different performance-focused categories. This way, you can select options that align best with your strength training goals.
Contents
- Best Overall Shoes for Strength Training
- Best Men's Shoes for Strength Training
- Best Women's Shoes for Strength Training
- Best Shoes for Strength Training and HIIT
- Best Shoes for Strength Training and Conditioning
- Best Shoes for Strength Training and Running
- Best Shoes for Strength Training for Wide Feet
- Best Budget Shoes for Strength Training
- What to Look for In Shoes for Strength Training
Looking at new cross-training shoes? Make sure you try out my TF2 Cross-Training shoes Finder. This calculator takes models that I’ve reviewed and matches you with the best shoes for your training needs.
Author’s Note: If you’re specific with your strength training, then I also have more specific round-ups for certain activities and shoe types like the best deadlift shoes, best shoes for squats, and best barefoot shoes for lifting.
Best Overall Shoes for Strength Training
When assessing the best overall shoes for strength training, I’m concerned with a shoe’s stability and how its sole interacts with different strength training contexts.
This section is also tough to pick just one shoe for because there are always layers of context needed when picking the best shoes for strength training per your preferences.
Top Pick: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
The STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer is my top pick for the best overall shoes for strength training. This model takes my top pick for three key reasons. First, the maneuverability of the Haze Trainer’s sole is solid for different types of strength training.
This model takes relatively no time to break in and if you like the sole of your shoes to move and articulate well with the foot, then I think you’ll enjoy the fit and feel of the Haze Trainer. Second, the stability of the Haze Trainer’s midsole is good for heavier strength training.
Whether you’re training heavily with free weights or machines, the Haze Trainer’s Cush50 midsole should do a good job at supporting your overall stability. It also provides a nice level of responsiveness for exercises like power cleans and dumbbell snatches.
The third and last reason why I like the Haze Trainer for strength training is its upper construction. The jacquard knit upper locks the foot down and breathes well. Plus, it looks pretty good so you can easily wear this model as a daily wear shoe as well.
- Best For: CrossFit-Style 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
- Comparable Runner-Up: Reebok Nano X2
- Second Runner-Up: NOBULL Court Trainer
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 Shoes for Strength Training
To test and review the best men’s shoes for strength training, I’m looking at how different models perform for different thresholds and contexts of strength training.
By looking at things like where stability is capped and how mobile a sole is, I can make the best-educated picks for men’s shoes for strength training.
Top Pick: RAD ONE
The RAD ONE is taking my top pick as the best men’s shoes for strength training. This model was originally launched to tackle the demands of CrossFit, but it has quickly grown as one of my favorite shoes for strength training.
It’s a model that can pretty much do it all and it delivers a good amount of stability for heavier sessions. I haven’t experienced any compression issues with this model when squatting over 400 lbs and deadlifting over 500 lbs.
This model features a SwellFoam midsole which walks a fine line between stable and versatile. If you plan to do heavy static strength work or more dynamic work, you should enjoy the overall stability and feel you get from this model’s midsole.
I also like the outsole treat and construction on the RAD ONE for strength training due to its grip and durability. This model grips different surfaces really well and is a great option for recreational lifters who also do CrossFit workouts here and there.
- Best For: 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
- Comparable Runner-Up: Nike Metcon 7
- Second Runner Up: Haze Trainer
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
Best Women’s Shoes for Strength Training
When assessing and reviewing the best women’s shoes for strength training, I’m constantly referring to my girlfriend and my YouTube community for their insights and feedback.
That feedback tied with my personal in-depth analysis and assessment of different shoes for strength training helps me make the best-educated picks.
Top Pick: Nike Metcon 8
The Nike Metcon 8 is taking the top pick for the best women’s shoes for strength training. This model works great for heavier strength training and versatile training. It’s also a good shoe for those who like doing CrossFit workouts.
In the context of lifting, the Nike Metcon 8 provides a nice level of stability across the board for different strength training settings. The Nike React Foam midsole is responsive yet stable and the built-in TPU Hyperlift insert in the heel adds to this shoe’s stability.
Outside of its stability, the upper durability is also a nice perk with the Nike Metcon 8. This model features overlays to prevent breakdown from abrasion and it’s one of the better cross-training shoes on the market for rope climbs if you regularly program them.
Must Read: 9 Best CrossFit Shoes | Picks for Wide Feet, High Arches, and More
The width and fit of the Nike Metcon 8 also do a fairly good job of aligning with the anatomical needs of women’s feet. This model has more of a form-fitting feel to it and hugs the foot well without feeling too clunky.
- 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 8 Review
- Comparable Runner-Up: Reebok Nano X3 Review
- Second Runner-Up: R.A.D ONE Review
Nike Metcon 8
$130
Best For
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit and CrossFit-Style Workouts
- Lifting
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Running
Best Shoes for Strength Training and HIIT
When testing and assessing the best shoes for strength training and HIIT workouts, I’m mostly concerned with two key performance aspects. First, I’m concerned about the stability a shoe’s midsole and outsole provide for strength work.
Second, I’m assessing how much “pop” you get from the shoe’s midsole and the level of responsiveness it delivers when tackling different types of HIIT workouts.
Top Pick: UA TriBase Reign 5
The Under Armour TriBase Reign 5 is taking my top pick as best the shoe for strength training and HIIT. For these training contexts, the TriBase Reign 5 delivers a strong construction due to its midsole, outsole, and upper.
The Micro G foam midsole in the TriBase Reign delivers a nice blend of stability and versatility. This shoe is stable enough for things like 500 lb deadlifts and 405 lb squats while being responsive for exercises like jump and plyometrics.
The TriBase outsole tech is also a nice feature for additional midfoot balance and support. You can feel this feature kicking in more when you’re doing single-leg jumps and multi-directional exercises.
The WARP upper in the TriBase Reign 5 also provides a nice level of security and durability for different training contexts. I don’t think you’ll experience stress rips in this shoe from tough strength training sessions and HIIT workouts.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2mm
- Weight: 12.6 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: UA TriBase Reign 5 Review
- Comparable Runner-Up: Reebok Nano X3 Review
- Second Runner-Up: YORK Athletics Frank Trainer
UA TriBase Reign 5
$130
Best For
- Recreational Weight Training
- CrossFit
- Cross-Training/Athletic Workouts
- HIIT Workouts
- Lower Heel-to-Toe Drop Lovers
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Longer Runs
Best Shoes for Strength Training and Conditioning
When assessing the best shoes for strength training and conditioning I try to back to my days tackling dryland sessions as an ice hockey player. Good shoes for strength training and conditioning need stability, versatility, and durability.
A model needs to be able to support different types of strength training, but also provide enough versatility and durability for tackling the demands of plyometrics and other circuit-style sessions.
Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 is taking my top pick for the best shoes for strength training and conditioning. When it comes to performance, the Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 somewhat does it all.
Its midsole is stable for heavier strength training and responsive enough to accommodate HIIT workouts and more athletic-style sessions. Essentially, it’s a good model to tackle something like heavy back squats, power cleans, and broad jumps all in one workout.
This model features a Graphene outsole which is a material that is designed to be both durable and grippy. On wooden platforms, turf, and rubber gym floors, the Inov-8 F-Lite G 300’s grip performs exceptionally well.
I also like the bootie-style construction of this and its upper. Both of these components give this model a nice form-fitting feel and a good level of breathability. The forefoot is also fairly wide to accommodate different foot anatomies.
- 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
- Comparable Runner-Up: UA TriBase Reign 4
- Second Runner-Up: Adidas Dropset Trainer
Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
$150
Best For
- Versatile Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Shorter Runs
- Plyometrics
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Best Shoes for Strength Training and Running
When it comes to the best shoes for strength training and running it’s important to recognize the contrast between these two activities.
For strength work, you’ll want a stable shoe, and for running, you’ll generally want a more cushioned ride (unless you like barefoot running). That being said, there will always be a give and take for both of these when finding a training shoe that works well for both.
Top Pick: On Cloud X 3
The On Cloud X 3 is taking my top pick as the best shoe for strength training and running. It’s important to note that this model will not necessarily be the “best” in either of these categories, but it works well as a hybrid training shoe.
For example, when it comes to lifting, you’ll want to cap your loading around 275-315 lbs in this model. If you go heavier than that, then you may start to notice compression with the CloudTec midsole.
Additionally, for running, this model will work best for distances between 1-6ish miles. I found that this distance tends to be the sweet spot in the On Cloud X 3 for both road and treadmill running.
Must Read: 6 Best Hybrid Training Shoes | Best Models for Running and Lifting
The On Cloud X 3 is a good hybrid training shoe for strength training and running, but it does have its limitations as you get more serious in both directions of running and strength work. That being said, if you fall into the parameters mentioned above, then I think you’ll like the On Cloud X. 3
- Best For: Shorter Runs, Light Lifting, HIIT, Agility
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 9.05 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: On Cloud X 3 Review
- Comparable Runner-Up: Reebok Nano X2
- Second Runner-Up: STR/KE MVMNT Vimana Hybrid Runner
On Cloud X 3
$149.99
Best For
- Light Strength Training
- Versatile Training
- Classes/HIIT
- Short Runs (1-5 miles)
- Daily Wear
Falls Short
- For Outdoor Workouts
- For Heavy Training
- For Wide Feet
Best Shoes for Strength Training for Wide Feet
To assess the best shoes for strength training and wide feet, I’m concerned with two key performance and fit criteria. First, the shoe needs to work for different forms and intensities of strength training.
Second, the shoe needs to be wide enough through the forefoot and midfoot to accommodate a variety of foot anatomies.
Top Pick: Reebok Nano X3
The Reebok Nano X3 is taking my top pick as the best shoe for strength training for wide feet. This model is a good “all-in-one” style cross-training shoe for the wide-footed athlete and lifter that likes to vary their weekly training.
This model is stable enough to support heavier squats and deadlifts and provides enough width throughout for most foot anatomies. When squatting 405 lbs and deadlifting 505 lbs in this model, I didn’t have issues with compression whatsoever.
The Reebok Floatride Energy foam midsole blended with the full rubber outsole provides this shoe with a good amount of stability and tread for different strength training contexts. For static and more dynamic strength work, the Nano X3 works fairly well.
On top of being a good model for wider feet, I also like the level of midfoot support that you get from this model’s reinforced TPU clips. If you have wider feet and need additional midfoot support, then I think you’ll enjoy the overall fit of the Reebok Nano X3.
- Best For: General Training, CrossFit, and Wider Feet
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 13.85 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: Narrow feet, size down a half-size. Neutral-width feet, size down a half-size for a snugger fit, and go true for a normal fit. Wide feet, go true to size.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X3 Review
- Comprarable Runner-Up: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
- Second Runner-Up: NOBULL Trainer+
Reebok Nano X3
$140
Best For
- Recreational Weight Training
- Functional Fitness/CrossFit
- Athletic-Style Training
- Short Runs/Sprints
- Casual HIIT
Falls Short
- For Minimalist Lovers
- For Long-Distance Running
Best Budget Shoes for Strength Training
To assess and test the best budget shoes for strength training shoes need to have two key criteria to make my list. First, they need to have price points under $100 USD.
Second, they need to actually perk well for different types of strength training. Being a budget-friendly model is great, but if the shoes fall short of strength training, then they’ll be a waste of your money.
Top Pick: Nike MC Trainer 2
The Nike MC Trainer is taking my top pick for the best budget shoes for strength training. This model comes in at a price point of $70 USD which is less than half of the price of other Nike training shoes like the Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2.
I like the Nike MC Trainer 2 because its performance is overall really strong for strength training despite its budget-friendly price point. For heavier strength training, the medium-density foam midsole does a good job of providing you with enough stability.
Additionally, the full rubber outsole also supports multi-directional activities and grips different training surfaces really well. This is a good model for those that like to strength train and do some versatile training on a weekly basis and don’t want to break the bank.
Must Read: 8 Best Budget Cross-Training Shoes | Picks for Men, Women, and More
There are a few quirks and drawbacks to this model, which I discuss in my full review, but there really aren’t any glaring issues with this shoe that would knock this model’s overall performance for recreational strength training.
- 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 MC Trainer 2 Review
- Comparable Runner-Up: Reebok Nanoflex V2
- Second Runner-Up: Puma FUSE 2.0
Nike MC Trainer 2
$75
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Narrow/Neutral Width Feet
- Cross-Training
- Sprints/HIIT Workouts
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Serious Barbell/CrossFit Training
What to Look for In Shoes for Strength Training
When looking into new shoes for strength training, it’s important to define how you primarily like to strength train in the first place. For example, an avid barbell-focused recreational lifter will train slightly differently than a beginner who is just getting into strength training.
Strength training takes a lot of different forms and if you can understand how you plan to use your shoes, then you can pick the best model for your needs.
Personally, I think there are three primary details to explore and assess when looking into new shoes for strength training. These details will influence a shoe’s overall stability and performance for strength training and they include:
- Midsole Material/Stability: How stable is the midsole and what is its threshold for different forms of strength training?
- Outsole Construction: How is the outsole constructed? Is it durable? Does the outsole grip floors and machines well?
- Upper Durability: Is the upper durable enough to withstand the stress that can come along with strength training? If you’re training heavy, does the upper lock the foot down properly?
These details and how you should assess them will then ebb and flow based on your strength training goals. For example, if you’re planning to train super heavy in your shoes, then you’ll want a model with a firmer midsole.
Conversely, if you like to blend your strength training with running, then you’ll want a shoe that can perform properly for both of these contexts. So, looking for shoes with responsive midsoles and breathable uppers could be good in this context.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:What are the best shoes for strength training?
Q:Do you need shoes for strength training?
Q:Can you strength train in running shoes?
Takeaway Thoughts
There are a lot of great shoes for strength training on the market. When searching for the ideal pair of strength training shoes for your training needs, it’s important to identify your core asks from the shoes you’re looking into.
By narrowing down how exactly you plan to use your shoes for strength training, you can invest in the perfect model for your context.
If you have additional questions on any of the shoes for strength training featured here, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).
