There are countless great workout shoes on the market and the act of finding your perfect pair can be seriously overwhelming. Not to mention, every pair of workout shoes is built slightly differently based on how you plan to use them.
For example, we have cross-training shoes designed for lifting and versatile training and CrossFit shoes specifically made to tackle CrossFit workouts.
Then we have HIIT shoes that are useful for classes and HIIT workouts, so it’s important to note that all of these training shoe categories can technically fall under the umbrella of workout shoes.
In this round-up, I broke all of my favorite shoes for working out into different performance categories below so you can easily see which workout shoes may be best for the context of your training need, wants, and preferences.
Table of Contents▼
- Best Workout Shoes for Women
- Best Workout Shoes for Men
- Best Workout Shoes for Lifting
- Best Workout Shoes for CrossFit
- Best Workout Shoes for HIIT
- Best Workout Shoes for High Arches
- Best Workout Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
- Best Workout Shoes for Wide Feet
- Best Indoor Workout Shoes
- Best Barefoot Workout Shoes
- How Should Workout Shoes Fit?
- When Should You Replace Workout Shoes?
On the market for new cross-training shoes? Check out my TF2 Cross-Training Shoe Finder. This calculator suggests the best cross-trainers that I’ve reviewed based on the context of your needs and wants.
Best Workout Shoes for Women
When identifying and testing the best workout shoes for women I lean heavily on my YouTube community and girlfriend for their feedback about different women’s workout shoes. This helps me identify trends in different workout shoes and their performance.
I then blend the summation of the women’s workout shoe feedback that I receive with my technical review assessments to create the following list of the best workout shoes for women.
1. Nike Metcon 8
The Nike Metcon 8 is taking the top spot for the best workout shoes for women for a couple of reasons. First, this model delivers a lot of niche construction features to help it excel in the contexts of lifting, CrossFit, and HIIT training. It’s a good “all-in-one” style of cross-training shoe.
Second, the last construction and fit of the Nike Metcon 8 generally work well for women’s foot anatomies. The Nike Metcon 8 has a neutral width and their last construction has a more athletic fit to it that tends to fit and feel fairly natural for different foot anatomies.
I think if you’re looking for a cross-training shoe that can perform strongly in a variety of contexts, then the Nike Metcon 8 is a good option to look into.
They tend to be pretty durable for CrossFit workouts, deliver a good level of stability, and have Nike React Foam in the forefoot for additional versatility.
- 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
Nike Metcon 8
$130
Best For
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit and CrossFit-Style Workouts
- Lifting
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Running
2. On Cloud X
The On Cloud X is another good option for workout shoes for women. This model provides a nice contrast to the Nike Metcon 7 above in that the On Cloud X will be a much better model for HIIT workouts, short runs, and classes.
If you’re not necessarily worried about the stability of your workout shoes and you’re more interested in how a shoe that provides a nice blend of versatility with some light stability, then the On Cloud X is a good model to explore.
The CloudTec construction in this On shoe does a good job of providing a nice level of responsiveness during training sessions. This shoe has also thicker rubber tread patterns compared to other On shoes covering the CloudTec to give it a nice level of grip on different training surfaces.
This shoe is lightweight and breathable which also makes it a good shoe for class settings and short runs. The On Cloud X is what I would describe as a good versatile and athletic-feeling training shoe that can work fairly well in a variety of settings. Plus, the fit of this model tends to work well with women’s foot anatomies.
- Best For: Shorter Runs, Light Lifting, HIIT, Agility
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 8.8 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: On Cloud X Review
On Cloud X
$139.99
Best For
- Plyometrics
- Short/Mid-Range Runs
- HIIT Training
- Agility Workouts
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Heavy Lifting
- For Long-Term Durability
Best Workout Shoes for Men
When considering the best workout shoes for men, I try to look at this topic from multiple points of view. Basically, I try to select workout shoes that fill asks based on different contexts.
Additionally, I look at the overall stability and durability that come along with the workout shoes for men that I’ve listed below. These are two common asks that I receive on my video and article reviews.
1. UA TriBase Reign 4
The UA TriBase Reign 4 is an awesome pick for workout shoes for men. This model delivers a strong performance for cross-training, CrossFit, and lifting, and it has a wider fit compared to prior UA TriBase Reign models.
The width and stability are definitely two of the star players of the UA TriBase Reign 4. This shoe has done a really good job during my lifting sessions by delivering a stable construction. The Micro G Foam midsole does a fairly good job at also giving this shoe a nice blend of versatility and responsiveness.
It’s also worth noting that the TriBase Reign 4 features a 2mm heel-to-toe drop. If you like training with a flatter foot position, then this adds to why this model can be a good training shoe to look into.
If you’re tackling CrossFit workouts, versatile training sessions, and even recreational lifting, then the UA TriBase Reign 4 should be a good model to accommodate your training needs.
- Best For: Cross-Training, CrossFit, Lifting, and Versatile 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
2. NOBULL Trainer+
The NOBULL Trainer+ is my second pick for the best workout shoes for men. To be honest, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the NOBULL Trainer+ when I was breaking them in, but they’re a shoe that has consistently grown on me and I see the benefit of this model for a couple of different contexts.
Compared to the traditional NOBULL Trainer, the NOBULL Trainer+ features a thicker EVA foam midsole, wider construction, and reworked rubber tread. These features give this shoe a slightly heavier fit and feel, but I don’t think that’s necessarily always a bad thing.
For example, I think NOBULL Trainer+ can be a really good training shoe for guys who are a bit heavier. In this context, they provide a nice blend of stability and comfort without completely beating up the feet.
Plus, with the NOBULL Trainer+ reworked width and greater upper volume, I think this will accommodate a wider range of men’s foot anatomies. If you have custom inserts or orthotics, then you should be safe using them in this shoe due to its increased forefoot and midfoot volume.
- Best For: Cross-Training, CrossFit, and Lifting
- 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
Best Workout Shoes for Lifting
When considering the best workout shoes for lifting the name of the game is stability and how well the pair of workout shoes work for barbell training, lifting with free weights, and working out on machines.
All of these contexts will require shoes that support stability, full foot contact with the ground, and grip. The shoes below are strong performers across the board for lifting.
1. GORUCK Ballistic Trainer
It’s hard to fault the GORUCK Ballistic Trainer in regard to its lifting performance. This model delivers a stable construction and is a really good pick for anyone wanting a training shoe primarily for recreational lifting and strength training.
The Ballistic Trainer features a gradient density midsole that is designed with different types of EVA to promote overall stability. I haven’t had any issues with this shoe’s stability when training with a barbell or using these for heavier leg presses and hack squats.
The outsole on the GORUCK Ballistic Trainer is also built with a blend of rubbers to promote traction on different surfaces while also working to create stability and versatility at certain points of the foot.
GORUCK Ballistic Trainer Mid-Top (low and mid both work well for lifting)
I personally like this because when you’re using different lower body machines, having adequate tread and stability are the forefoot, midfoot, and heel are crucial for performance. If you want a shoe for general strength training and lifting, then the GORUCK Ballistic Trainer is a good stable, and durable option to explore.
- Best For: Recreational Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 14.4 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes (comes with 2 insoles, 1 flat and 1 with arch support)
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: GORUCK Ballistic Trainer Review
GORUCK Ballistic Trainers
$125
Best For
- Heavier Training
- Versatile Workouts
- Day-to-Day Wear
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Longer Runs
- For Agility Training
2. R.A.D ONE
The R.A.D ONE is a new cross-training shoe that works really well for lifting and CrossFit. This model comes R.A.D’s proprietary Swell Foam midsole construction which delivers a nice level of stability for different lifting contexts.
Whether you’re deadlifting 500 lbs or doing heavy leg presses, the R.A.D ONE should have no issues with stability for you. I also like the outsole construction on the R.A.D ONE and how it plays into different lifting contexts.
This model features a full rubber outsole that wraps over the midsole which is great for both traction and long-term durability. It helps protect the Swell Foam midsole and gives this shoe a nice boost for context like CrossFit as well.
If you’re looking for a workout that’s good for lifting and is also a strong performer for CrossFit workouts if you tackle both styles of training on a weekly basis, then the R.A.D ONE is a good option to look into.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting, CrossFit, and HIIT Workouts
- 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
Best Workout Shoes for CrossFit
When it comes to the best workout shoes for CrossFit, I’m mostly concerned with three key performance areas. First, I’m assessing a shoe’s overall stability when training heavily.
Second, I’m assessing the versatility of the shoe. Can it work well for things like shorter runs and box jumps? Third, I’m looking at the long-term durability of the shoe and if it can stand up to CrossFit workouts.
1. STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
The STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer is a great workout shoe for CrossFit for three key reasons. First, the Cush50 midsole used in this model does a really good job of walking the line between being versatile and stable.
The midsole in this model has a nice level of responsiveness and it works well under heavyweight. Second, the Cross-Platform Outsole construction in this shoe gives this model a highly maneuverable fit and feel which is great for foot articulation and versatility.
If you’re tackling cleans, unilateral lower body training, wall balls, or whatever it might be, then you’ll likely enjoy the performance of the Haze Trainer’s outsole. I almost categorize this shoe as a bridge between traditional training shoes and barefoot shoes due to its maneuverability.
Third and lastly, the durability of the Haze Trainer is overall pretty good. The 3D jacquard knit upper breathes well while doing a good job of abrasion resistance when tackling rope climbs and burpees.
- 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
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
2. R.A.D ONE
The R.A.D ONE is making this list once again as being a solid workout shoe for CrossFit. This model is relatively new to the cross-training shoe scene and is designed specifically for tackling CrossFit and serious lifting sessions.
In the context of CrossFit specifically, the R.A.D ONE has a lot going for it. The outsole grips the floor really well and the extended wraps help to prolong this shoe’s durability and how well it assists rope climbing performance.
The Swell Foam midsole is also a really strong performer for delivering a nice balance of stability and versatility. This shoe doesn’t compress under heavy lifts and it has a nice “pop” to it when doing things like box jumps and double-unders.
If you’re looking for a newer workout shoe for tackling CrossFit workouts, then the R.A.D ONE is a good option to look into. They’re a good “all-in-one” style shoe.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting, CrossFit, and HIIT Workouts
- 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
Best Workout Shoes for HIIT
When testing and assessing workout shoes for HIIT I’m primarily interested in two key performance areas for shoes. First, I want to know how versatile a shoe is. Will it work well for things like lifting, jumping, and explosive exercises?
Second, I’m interested in the comfort and outsole traction in the shoe. Can the HIIT shoes support multi-directional exercises on different surfaces and not beat the feet up after training sessions?
1. Nike Free Metcon 4
The Nike Free Metcon 4 is a solid workout shoe for HIIT training. This model has Nike’s proprietary Nike Free tech and provides a highly maneuverable fit and feel for different workouts.
This shoe breaks in quickly and has an adequate amount of outsole tread for supporting training on different surfaces. Whether you’re doing classes on wood floors, lifting on rubber gym mats, or training outdoors, this shoe should grip the ground well.
I also enjoy the bootie-style construction of this shoe and its upper materials. This model feels seamless and easy to wear for longer sessions and on a daily wear basis which helps add to their versatility.
If you’re someone looking for a workout shoe for HIIT that can also work for shorter runs, some lifting, and daily wear, then the Nike Free Metcon 4 is a good shoe to look into.
- Best For: HIIT Workouts, Light Lifting, Shorter Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: N/A
- Weight: 10.6 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but shallow instep so it may feel tight for wider feet.
- Read My Review: Nike Free Metcon 4 Review
Nike Free Metcon 4
$120
Best For
- HIIT Workouts
- Classes
- Light Lifting
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Heavy Training
- For Fitting Wide Feet
2. UA HOVR Rise 4
The Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 is another fantastic workout shoe for HIIT training. I like this workout shoe for HIIT workouts for three key reasons. First, the HOVR midsole in this model is a nice feature.
The HOVR midsole in this model has a nice level of bounce and comfort. Whether you’re doing plyometrics, taking classes, or programming your own HIIT workouts, it should stand up to the demands you throw at them pretty well.
Second, the TriBase tech on the outsole gives you a nice stable base to train on and provides a nice level of grip on different surfaces. I like this outsole construction for both single-leg and bilateral work.
Third and lastly, the upper in this shoe does a good job with both breathability and durability in the context of HIIT workouts. The bootie-style construction also provides a nice secure and locked-down feeling when doing multi-directional work.
- Best For: HIIT Workouts and Classes
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: N/A
- Weight: 11.1 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
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 Workout Shoes for High Arches
When assessing the best workout shoes for high arches there is one key area that I’m looking at and that is the level of arch support that certain workout shoes have.
Can the workout shoe perform well for those with high arches and provide the support they need for training sessions without beating up their feet?
1. Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 is my top workout shoe for high arches. This model provides an adequate level of arch support and delivers strong performance across the board for a range of activities.
The Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 provides an adequate level of arch support and it’s a fairly stable shoe so it can be a good option for those with high arches that plan to use these primarily for CrossFit and cross-training.
This model is also durable across the board and features Graphene, which Inov-8 points out to be one of the world’s most durable materials. I have yet to experience breakdown issues in this model, so I do think their durability is on point.
The upper has a good amount of breathability and the additional outsole wrap promotes adequate grip in a variety of training settings and durability for daily wear.
- 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
Best For
- Versatile Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Shorter Runs
- Plyometrics
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
2. Nike Metcon 8
The Nike Metcon 8 is taking my second pick as a good cross-training shoe option for high arches. This model features a fairly pronounced midfoot construction that many athletes enjoy due to its arch support.
The midfoot in the Nike Metcon 8 is technically designed for rope climbing support, but it also serves as moderate arch support and gives these shoes a slightly more athletic feel.
Outside of its arch support, the Nike Metcon 8 is also a pretty well-rounded cross-training shoe. This shoe excels for lifting, and CrossFit, and can work for versatile training sessions where you’ll be on the forefeet a lot.
I think if your training has a heavy bias towards strength-focused workouts, then it’s tough to fault the Nike Metcon 8. It provides plenty of stability for different strength levels and they tend to be durable shoes.
- 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
Nike Metcon 8
$130
Best For
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit and CrossFit-Style Workouts
- Lifting
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Running
Best Workout Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
When considering the best workout shoes for plantar fasciitis it’s always a good idea to see a specialist and learn more about this topic and to get recommendations for orthotics or shoes that can work well for the context of your needs.
For this topic, I lean heavily on my That Fit Friend community for feedback on which workout shoes can be viable options for plantar fasciitis. Below are two options that tend to receive positive feedback for this specific workout shoe ask.
1. Adidas Dropset Trainers
The Adidas Dropset Trainers can be a viable workout shoe to look into for plantar fasciitis, especially if you want a model that can be relatively stable when lifting and training.
The Adidas Dropset Trainers feature a fairly deep heel cup and dual-density foam midsole to provide you with a blend of versatility and stability. The midsole in this shoe should do a good job for lifting and some versatile training.
Another pro of the Adidas Dropset Trainers is that this shoe features a wider toe box and midfoot which makes them a good contender for anyone that wants to put into their own custom insoles and orthotics.
If you’re interested in a stable workout shoe for plantar fasciitis that can also work fairly well for more dynamic training settings, then the Adidas Dropset Trainers are a good shoe to explore.
- Best For: Recreational Lifting and Casual Versatile Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: N/A
- Weight: 10.6 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Adidas Dropset Trainers Review
Adidas Dropset Trainer
$-2
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Casual CrossFit
- HIIT Workouts
- Classes and Very Light Runs
Falls Short
- For Serious CrossFit Workouts
- For Longer Runs
2. Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 can also be a viable workout shoe for plantar fasciitis. I wanted to include this shoe on this list because it provides a nice contrast to the Adidas Dropset Trainers discussed above.
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 will provide you with a much more comfortable and running-focused ride compared to the Dropset Trainers, which I like because I wanted a more cushioned option in the event you’re not worried about stability.
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 is a great model to explore due to its ability to work well for short runs, walking, daily wear, and lighter workouts. The SweetFoam midsole used in this model provides enough stability for light workouts and a comfortable ride for all-day wear.
If you want a comfortable and sustainable workout shoe for plantar fasciitis that works well in a variety of contexts, then the Tree Dasher 2 is worth looking into.
- Best For: Light Workouts, Walking, Short Runs, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 10.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
$135
Best For
- Short and Mid-Distance Runs
- Walking and Standing
- Daily and Casual Wear
- Light Workouts
Falls Short
- For Long-Distance Runs
- For Wet and Harsh Training Settings
Best Workout Shoes for Wide Feet
When testing and reviewing the best workout shoes for wide feet I’m curious about one construction aspect. Are the shoes good for wide feet and different foot anatomies?
Basically, I’m interested in if the workout shoes have enough width through the toe box and midfoot to accommodate wider feet.
1. Altra Solstice XT 2
The Altra Solstice XT 2 takes my top spot for workout shoes for wide feet. This model is purposely designed to accommodate wide feet and features Altra’s signature anatomical toe box shape.
On top of their width, the Altra Solstice XT 2 also has a few key construction aspects to note which could help you further understand if this shoe is good for your needs. For starters, the medium-density midsole in this model provides them with a comfortable and somewhat stable ride.
Additionally, this shoe features a 0mm heel-to-toe drop, so if you want a wider workout shoe that has a zero drop, then it’s really tough to fault the Altra Solstice XT 2.
315 lb squat in Altra Solstice XT 2
If you want a wide workout shoe that works well for recreational lifting, versatile training, and daily wear, then the Altra Solstice XT 2 is a good option to look into.
- 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 is taking my second pick as the best workout shoe for wide feet. Compared to other workout shoes, this model has a good amount of width to them and they have measurements that put them into the D-width category for shoes.
The one caveat with the Reebok Nano X2 is that while it works for wider forefeet, the midfoot can feel uncomfortable at times for flat feet and those who need more width through the forefoot, and this is due to the TPU clip on the medial side of the shoe.
If the above isn’t you, then I do think you’ll enjoy the fit and performance of the Reebok Nano X2. The Reebok Nano X2 is what I would describe as a “do it all” style shoe and it works well for various training contexts.
For example, this shoe is stable enough to support things like 500 lb deadlifts, and it’s responsive enough for plyometrics, short runs under 3 miles, and versatile training sessions.
- Best For: Wider Feet, Cross-Training, and Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: Narrow and neutral-width feet, size down a half size. Wide feet, go true to size.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Best Indoor Workout Shoes
If you’re primarily in need of a pair of indoor workout shoes, then you’re going to want a model that provides a good amount of breathability and versatility.
The types of workout shoes that work best for indoor workouts and at-home workouts generally offer a nice blend of versatility and stability that can accommodate lighter lifting and bodyweight training.
1. On Cloud X 3
The On Cloud X 3 is taking my top pick as the best indoor workout shoe. If you’re doing at-home workouts with a lot of bodyweight exercises, light strength training, and HIIT-style work, it’s tough to fault the On Cloud X 3’s performance.
Compared to the other workout shoes on this list, the On Cloud X 3 is super lightweight and it has a nice level of breathability with its 3-layer mesh upper. These two features make this model an easy and comfortable pick for wearing indoors.
On top of this, the CloudTec midsole in this model is responsive and stable enough for light training. I think the On Cloud X 3 will resonate with those who prioritize comfort with their training settings.
I think if your week generally consists of at-home workouts, HIIT, light strength training, and short runs, and you also want a shoe for daily wear that looks good, then the On Cloud X 3, or On Cloud X for that matter, can be good workout shoes to explore.
- Best For: Short Runs, Classes, Home Workouts, and HIIT Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: N/A
- Weight: 9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, wide feet pass on these.
- Read My Review: On Cloud X 3 Review
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
2. Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2
The Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 is a great cross-training shoe to look into for indoor training. This model delivers a strong performance across the board that helps this shoe transcend only being limited to indoor workouts.
This shoe features Inov-8’s PowerFlow midsole which does a good job of providing a stable and responsive feel during workouts. You can lift heavier in these shoes and use them for indoor workouts and they’ll be comfortable across the board.
The outsole on this model features Inov-8 Dynamic Fascia Band which is another reason why I like them for indoor training and at-home workouts. This outsole moves well with the foot and provides a nice level of traction.
If you’re interested in a good versatile indoor workout shoe that can also hold its own in the gym for lifting, CrossFit, and HIIT training, then the Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 is a good shoe to explore.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, Home Workouts, CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 10.5 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 Review
Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2
Best For
- CrossFit Workouts
- Recreational Lifting
- Versatile Training
- HIIT and Agility Workouts
Falls Short
- For Wider Footed Athletes
- For Cost-Efficiency
Best Barefoot Workout Shoes
Barefoot shoes have continued to grow in popularity as being viable workout shoes. I personally love using barefoot shoes for lifting and I train in a few really great pairs regularly.
If you’re looking for the best barefoot shoes for working out, then check out the two options below. Both of these models do exceptionally across the board as barefoot workout shoes.
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is one of my favorite barefoot shoes for working out. This model features Vivobarefoot’s Active Sole construction which is a sole that has a height of 5.5mm and gets you super close to the ground.
On top of the Active Sole, I like that you can remove the insole in the Primus Lite III and the internal portion of the shoe is finished. This is great for really maximizing a barefoot feel without causing additional shoe breakdown.
Additionally, the toe box in this model is plenty wide to accommodate a wide range of foot anatomies and the outsole provides a nice level of traction for a variety of workout settings.
If you want a barefoot shoe for working out that does pretty well for everything and looks good on a daily wear basis, then the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is a good option to look into.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting and Barbell Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
$160
Best For
- Heavy Weight Training
- Daily Wear
- Casual Workouts
- Lighter Runs and Athletic Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Longer Barefoot-Style Running Workouts
2. Xero Shoes 360
If you’re more interested in a barefoot shoe for working out that can hold its own for CrossFit and cross-training, then the Xero Shoes 360 is a good barefoot shoe to look into.
This model is designed specifically for cross-training and will deliver a slightly more durable upper for this style of training compared to the Primus Lite III which features a lightweight and breathable mesh.
The Xero Shoes 360 has a wide toe box and a removable insole with an internal finished construction so you can get really close to the ground with this model, too. The outsole in this shoe also does a really good job with multi-directional activities on different surfaces.
If you’re someone wanting to use barefoot shoes for CrossFit, cross-training, and outdoor training sessions, then the Xero Shoes 360 is a good barefoot workout shoe to look into.
- Best For: CrossFit and Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 10.2 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes 360 Review
Xero Shoes 360
$119.99
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Functional Fitness Workouts
- Short Runs and Sprints
- Daily Wear
Falls Short
- For Long-Term Durability
How Should Workout Shoes Fit?
When assessing how your workout shoes fit, I always suggest sizing your workout shoes so you have between .2″-.6″ at the end of your shoe’s toe box. This range of length is generally a good bet for most workout lifters and athletes.
If you have wider feet, then you’ll want to generally air on the higher end of the range and if you have narrow, then you might want to opt for the lower range.
This workout shoe fit range is also generally a good range to go with to prevent heel slip in your workout shoes. Heel slip is when your heel continually pops out of your workout shoes despite your best efforts to promote shoe security.
When Should You Replace Workout Shoes?
At That Fit Friend, I have a system that I like to use to help others learn and understand when it’s time to replace their workout shoes. The system that I like to use is called “OMU” and it stands for a shoe’s outsole, midsole, and upper (OMU).
When assessing when to replace your workout shoes these are three areas that I want you to explore. The reason I use OMU is that if these areas are breaking down, then your performance could be compromised which would warrant the need to replace your workout shoes.
By using OMU, you can ask yourself three questions which will then direct if it’s time to replace your workout shoes. An example of this in action can be seen below.
In this example, the midsole and outsole are both breaking down, which would warrant the need to replace the workout shoes. Generally speaking, midsole and outsole breakdown are two areas that will most impact performance.
To take it a step further, if the upper was just breaking down in the example above and the midsole and outsole were fine, then there wouldn’t be such an immediate need to replace the workout shoes.
This is also why I ordered OMU in the way it is as it’s based on a hierarchy of importance for performance. If the outsole and midsole are breaking down, then you likely should look into replacing your workout shoes sooner than later.
How I Rank, Test, and Review Shoes
Every workout shoe included in this round-up has been personally tested and reviewed by myself. I’m the only one that reviews workout shoes for That Fit Friend and I keep it this way to increase the depth and context I can apply to round-ups and reviews.
When assessing workout shoes in the variety of categories mentioned above, I try to create a hyper-focused assessment for each specific category.
With every workout shoe, I have a larger review testing process that I perform, and then this process ebbs and flows based on the context of how a workout shoe is intended to be used.
For example, when I niche down on shoe reviews the tests I perform will then shift accordingly. For context, how I test a CrossFit-focused shoe in the gym will be slightly different than a HIIT-focused shoe.
From here, I then assess a shoe’s overall fit, stability, versatility, durability, and all of the finite construction details that go into the shoe in question.
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Takeaway Thoughts
There are countless workout shoes on the market that work well for a variety of activities and settings. It can be seriously overwhelming to find the perfect workout shoe for your needs.
If you narrow down how you plan to use your workout shoes, then it can be a lot easier to narrow down the workout shoes that will work best for your needs.
If you have additional questions on any of the workout shoes featured in this article or models that weren’t mentioned that you’re looking into, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly)!
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