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Apart from the slightly strange guy at the squat rack wearing socks and sliders, every gym goer knows that for ultimate results, you should be wearing the right gear. And this includes the best training shoes for men.
Sure, you can get away with wearing your old Converse or Vans (they’re comfortable, right?), but if you really want to start smashing your personal best, it’s about time you upgraded your footwear.
Whether you’ve taken up permanent residence in the weights section or you’re all about that CrossFit life, finding a good pair of gym sneakers is a must. Not only will they offer you the right kind of support, but they can also help with mobility and overall performance.
To help you find the best on the market, we’ve done our research and pulled together the standout options for every type of training.
Our Top Picks
Fit: Neutral | Colors available: Green, Black, White, + | Sizes available: 6-15 | Workout: All
If you like to mix up your gym program, it’s important not to go too niche with your footwear. This means you should avoid picking out a pair that’s only suitable for a certain type of exercise. To avoid injury and maximize results, you need to find yourself a do-it-all sneaker that can take you from the treadmill to the barbell without breaking a sweat.
Coming up with the goods is
The React foam ensures a cushioned base that feels sponge-like springy as you run, while the wide, flat heel offers stability for heavy lifts. Warning: once these make it into your collection, you’ll probably find yourself wearing them on rest days too.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Khaki, Black, White, + | Sizes available: 7-14 | Workout: All
Nowadays there seem to be shoes for every occasion. In this list alone, there are heaps of options for all kinds of workouts and training programs. But wouldn’t it be great if there was a style suitable enough to take you from the gym to lunch with friends? If you hadn’t already guessed, we’ve found just the pair.
The Hylo Light offers all-day comfort, whether you’re running from shop to shop or kicking some ass in the latest cardio class. Comfortable, light, and breathable, they’re sustainably made using renewable materials and come in over 10 versatile colors.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: White, Black, Gray, + | Sizes available: 7-13 | Workout: Core
While we’re advocates of buying the best workout shoes for men to help with your performance and results, we understand that some of you just want to look the bees knees. If looking good in and out of the gym is your priority, then Alex Arigato’s Marathon Runner sneakers are an excellent choice.
They may be inspired by running shoes of the 90s, but you’ll probably want to look elsewhere if you plan on doing a lot of miles. They’re comfortable enough for basic cardio and core training, plus they’ll be the talk of the weights room (for all the right reasons) as you work on your bench press.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, White, Orange, + | Sizes available: 6-14 | Workout: CrossFit
Whether you’re new to CrossFit or a seasoned pro, to continue improving and smashing your goals, you’ll need to invest in the best workout shoes for men. Functional fitness can demand a lot from your body, so it’s important you find something suitable for your next WOD (that’s ‘workout of the day’ for you newbies).
The Reebok Nano X2 is a great place to start. It’s stable enough for big barbell moves, yet the Floatride Energy Foam provides lightweight, responsive cushioning that’s perfect for short runs and plyo moves such as burpees and box jumps.
If you take your training outside, the durable rubber outsole provides reliable traction suitable for any weather.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, White, Gray, + | Sizes available: 6-15 | Workout: All
You shouldn’t skimp on training footwear, but that doesn’t mean you have to file for bankruptcy in order to secure the best gym shoes for men. Truth is, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that don’t require you to sacrifice style, comfort, or performance.
The
It boasts multipurpose power that gives plenty of stability, flexibility, and support—helping you move from the weight room to spin class without having to change. They’re pretty much suitable for any sweat session—minus training for a marathon.
Fit: Wide | Colors available: Black, Blue, White, + | Sizes available: 7-15 | Workout: CrossFit
There’s no better way to find the best training shoes for men than by getting your information straight from the horse’s mouth. In other words, the fitness footwear that’s been getting the best feedback from its wearers.
With over 14,000 reviews (66% of those 5-star), these minimalist training shoes from WHITIN must be doing something right. While they’re not exactly the prettiest sneaker on this list, they’re given a massive thumbs up for their comfort, flexibility, and wide toe box.
Suitable for CrossFit and muddy trails, they’re designed to feel like you’re working out barefoot while still maintaining a good level of safety.
Fit: Regular or Wide | Colors available: Black, Blue, White, + | Sizes available: 7-15 | Workout: Running
If you run and you’re flat-footed, you probably overpronate. Sorry, what? It’s when the arches of the foot roll inward after landing. By investing in the right pair of training shoes, you can help counterbalance this and evenly distribute the impact.
With an open construction and roomy forefoot, the Hoka Arahi 6 is a versatile support shoe that offers a large dose of comfort for all runners—especially those with flat or slightly wider feet. It’s also super lightweight, which is quite surprising considering how much cushioning it offers. You can wear them on the treadmill, but they’re particularly great for road running (beep beep).
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, Silver, Blue, + | Sizes available: 7-16 | Workout: Running
Arch-support sneakers don’t just offer extra comfort but also help avoid niggling injuries like shin splints, ankle sprains, and tendonitis. For runners with arched feet, not wearing the right training shoes can lead to uneven pressure distribution. As a result, your morning runs become more of a hindrance than a health benefit.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 uses premier cushioning to carry you through many different types of workouts—from light jogging to sprints and marathons. It can also be a real lifesaver for anyone on their feet all day. The EVA foam midsole is firm but soft, providing the perfect balance of comfort and performance.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black | Sizes available: 4-15 | Workout: All
If you’re the kinda guy that wants minimum fuss, maximum results, and a pair of kicks that are as tough as you, then stop your search for the best training shoes for men. We’ve found exactly what you’ve been looking for.
These all-black GORUCK sneakers have hard-to-beat arch support that ensures ultimate comfort as you tackle a variety of training settings, whether you’re squatting, lifting, or lunging.
Crafted using engineered warp-knit technology with a triple compound rubber outsole, these gym shoes are designed to take a beating (so it’ll be a long while before you need another pair).
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, Green, Red, + | Sizes available: 6-15 | Workout: HIIT
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is tough. The cardiovascular training method really pushes you to your limits—often leaving you flat on your back gasping for air as the guy sitting on the yoga mat watches you in admiration. It’s great for fitness but definitely requires the best training shoes for men to perform at your best.
The
The extra support and wide heel create a solid base for some serious lifting. These are not running shoes, but they’ll have no trouble accompanying you for a mile or two.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, Green, Red, + | Sizes available: 6-15 | Workout: Indoor Cycling
Taking off your gym sneakers for some indoor cycling shoes may seem like a bit of an effort, but it’s totally worth it. Wearing suitable shoes for your workout not only provides a more efficient ride, but it’ll be much more comfortable too.
Designed to take your exercise to the next level, these
Convenience was clearly important to the designers because they also work with both caged and clip-in pedal systems—meaning there’s no need to swap out the pedals that come with your bike.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Black, White, Red | Sizes available: 6-13 | Workout: Weightlifting
What’s the difference between a part-time gym enthusiast and a serious lifter? If you were waiting for a witty punchline, you’re out of luck. The answer is, in fact, their shoes. While the former can be spotted in a pair of regular sneakers, the professional opts for something far more serious: weightlifting shoes.
Our pick of the bunch is the Adipower III from Adidas. Originally developed for athletes at the London Olympic Games, they’re now found on the feet of your gym’s strongest squatters.
Thanks to their raised heel and high-density midsole, they’ll keep you safe and stable under the heaviest loads. The lace-and-strap combo keeps you firmly locked in, plus there’s a rubber outsole that will plant your feet on the mat.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Yellow, Black, White, + | Sizes available: 7-14 | Workout: Running
When it comes to the best training shoes for men, you can’t go far wrong with Hoka. Giving the likes of
The Mach 5 is a great training companion, suitable for everything from light jogs to longer-distance efforts. The dual-density ProFly midsole makes pounding the pavements a breeze, while there’s an articulated heel collar for a secure fit. Available in a range of colors, we think you’ll struggle to find better.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: Grey, Yellow, Green, + | Sizes available: 7-14 | Workout: Trail
Nothing beats exploring the great outdoors and burning some serious calories in the process. Why would you not want to swap polluted pavements for scenic views and fresh country air? But before you set off on your next trail run, don’t forget to make sure you have the correct footwear.
The Cloudultra will help you smash your personal best no matter where you decide to clock up the miles. It’s a solid option for beginners and pros looking to increase their distance on the trails.
You don’t have to worry about comfort, as there’s a double layer of superfoam and two layers of CloudTec® to deliver cloud-like cushioning and all-day comfort.
Fit: Regular | Colors available: White | Sizes available: 6.6-16 | Workout: Tennis
It doesn’t matter if you’re a round-robin veteran or play for fun on the weekends; every tennis player should own a proper pair of shoes. It’s not just your choice of racket that can affect performance, but your footwear too.
This pair from Adidas is certainly up to the task at hand. Designed to fit feet of all shapes and sizes, they’re made from recycled materials, including at least 50% ocean plastic.
Deceptively lightweight, you’ll also find a lock-in lacing construction that holds the tongue to your foot for ultimate stability. As far as padding goes, there’s plenty enough to keep you comfortable during longer sessions.
What To Look For When Buying The Best Training Shoes For Men
Workout Type
Before you start banging in your credit card details, you first need to decide which workouts you do the most. Will you be deadlifting? Hitting the treadmill? How about the assault bike? Or a mixture of everything?
Once you’ve nailed down what kind of category you fall into, you can start to narrow down the choices you have and what is most suitable for your needs. This is the easiest way to find the best training shoes for men.
Comfort
When it comes to workout gear, nothing is more important than comfort. As long as you’re comfortable, you can then focus on performing to the best of your ability. To ensure the best results, find a training shoe that offers foam cushioning for enhanced comfort.
You should avoid sneakers that don’t bend at the same place as your toes. You want to look for a style that supports the way your foot naturally moves.
Fit
When searching for the best training shoes for men, one of the most important things to keep in mind is the fit. Before selecting your size, check whether or not you need to take your normal size or size up or down.
Ideally, you want your footwear to be snug but not tight. As you complete your gym workout, you require optimum support to avoid any injuries.
FAQ
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The best workout shoes for men come in a wide range of styles. There is no particular pair that’s better than the others. To decide which pair is most suitable for you, take into consideration what type of training you will be undertaking.
You should then look at the designs which are most appropriate for those types of exercises and which ones are most comfortable and supportive. If you do a bit of everything, the overall pick of the Nike Metcon 8 isn’t a bad choice.
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Which color training shoes you buy will come down to personal preference. However, if you plan on wearing yours outside of the gym, too, it may be a good idea to choose a pair versatile enough to not look out of place with the rest of your outfit. While those neon yellow numbers may look great, they could look questionable as you shop for your groceries.
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As your training shoes absorb the impact of exercise—whether that be squats, sprints, or spin— they begin to wear down and eventually need to be replaced. It’s important to change them at the right time to avoid injury. As a rule of thumb, running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 450 miles or every six months. For weightlifters, the best gym shoes for men should last around a year.
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