Expert Picks: The Best Gym Shoes for Every Workout from HIIT to Heavy Lifting
Whether you're a dedicated gym enthusiast or just starting to add more exercise to your weekly routine, having a pair of quality shoes is essential for any workout session. Not all sneakers provide the necessary support to keep you safe and effective during your fitness activities. To help you make the right choice, we consulted fitness experts, including trainers and instructors, for their top recommendations on the best gym shoes available today.
Why the Right Gym Shoe Matters
The ideal gym shoe combines durability, proper support for your foot shape, and design features that enhance your specific workout type. Activities like HIIT, strength training, and cardio can yield better results and reduce injury risks when paired with appropriate footwear. Lauren Kleban, a celebrity trainer and founder of LEKFIT, emphasized the importance of using different shoes for various workouts. "Shoes can wear out quickly, especially if you're doing a mix of strength, cardio, and studio work, so it's smart to keep a few on rotation," she told HuffPost. "Different workouts also place different demands on your feet, so having options helps you figure out what best serves you in different settings."
Justice Roe Williams, a lead trainer at Fitness4AllBodies based in Boston, Massachusetts, echoed this sentiment. "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," he explained.
Top Gym Shoe Recommendations from Experts
Based on expert advice, we've compiled a selection of workout shoes, including some editors' picks, with details on which fitness activities each is best suited for. Here are the standout options:
- Hoka Solimar Sneakers: Recommended by Lauren Kleban for strength training, these shoes offer secure support without excessive cushioning, promoting proper alignment and control during heavy movements. Available in women's sizes 5-11 and men's sizes 7-14, they come in various colors and are a favorite among HuffPost readers for their comfort.
- Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 Sneakers: Kleban's all-time favorite, these sneakers are comfortable, supportive, and adaptable across different movements, especially for rebounder workouts. They provide stability without being too heavy. Available in women's sizes 4.5-12 and men's sizes 6.5-15, they are praised for their style and versatility.
- Reebok Nano Sneakers: Ideal for everyday gym sessions, these versatile shoes are great for class workouts, cardio, and more. They offer support, breathability, and comfortable cushioning. Available in women's sizes 5-12 and men's sizes 6.5-14.
- Under Armour Charged Assert 10 Sneakers: Recommended by Philadelphia-based personal trainer Phil Nicolaou for everyday workouts, these shoes provide support and comfort with a lightweight design, EVA sockliner, and rubber outsole for traction. Available in multiple colors for men and women.
- APL Techloom Phantom Sneakers: Perfect for training or running, these shoes offer flexibility and cushioning, making them suitable for dancing and various workouts. Available in women's sizes 5-14 in neutral colorways.
- Nike Free Metcon 6 Training Shoes: Recommended by New York City-based trainer Tatiana Lampa, these shoes combine flexibility and stability for activities like weight lifting and agility drills. Available in women's sizes 5-12 and men's sizes 6-15.
- Brooks Ghost 17 Sneakers: Ideal for running longer distances, these shoes offer firm cushioning, lightweight design, and a roomy toe box. Available in women's sizes 5-13 and men's sizes 7-15 with multiple width options.
- Adidas Powerlift 5 Shoes: Designed for weightlifting, these shoes provide a raised heel for improved squat depth and stability. Available in unisex sizes and colors like teal, white, pink, and black.
Investing in the right gym shoes can significantly enhance your workout performance and safety. Consider these expert picks to find the perfect pair for your fitness needs and keep your feet on the right track.
