7 Best Training Shoes in 2023

Nicholas Rizzo
Nicholas Rizzo on
7 Best Training Shoes in 2023
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Training shoes must be some of the most versatile athletic footwear. They are meant for every imaginable activity at the gym, including jumping, lifting, treadmill running, and rowing, among other exercises.

Some trainers are more geared Chutney a certain type of activity. For example, weightlifting shoes have a wide sturdy base with a raised heel, while HIIT shoes have plenty of cushioning for non-stop jumping. 

We have reviewed over 100 various training shoes to help you choose the best. Depending on your type of training, you may prefer one feature above others. That’s why we have selected our top picks in different categories.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits | Best training shoes overall

What makes it the best?

If buying shoes were like investing, then you should really be putting your hard-earned cash into the Air Jordan 1 Mid Pro Purple Sand 5. The returns of investment on this trainer come in the form of high-level performance that does not compromise on style and looks. Its service to you does not end even when the workout is over. It can still be a reliable companion at work or even for casual strolls around town. Profit maximization is simply what you get!

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Impressively stable
  • Noteworthy ankle support
  • Awesomely close-fitting
  • Roomy toebox
  • Nice and airy upper
  • Comfortable for all-day wear
  • Quite cushiony
  • Notably lightweight
  • Exceptionally flexible
  • Stylish design and overall look

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Not for long runs (2-3 miles max)
  • Mens NIKE AIR JORDAN 1 RETRO HIGH TOP OG PATENT BRED TRAINERS 8.5 Black & Red
Full review of Air Jordan 1 Mid Pro Purple Sand 5

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Men
Women
Any color
Yellow (DV3949700)
Grey (DV3949002)
nike free metcon 5 black 3db0 60
Smoke Grey/Smoke Grey/Iron Grey/Black (DV3949003)

Best training shoes for Crossfit

Nike Metcon 8
86
Great!

What makes it the best?

The Nike Metcon 8 continues the widely recognized success of the Metcon line. This shoe is dependable in different training contexts, though it stands out the most when used in CrossFit and lifting. The money spent on this model is surely not money that goes to waste.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Most stable cross-trainer for weightlifting
  • Ideal for CrossFit
  • Responsive for jumps
  • Sneaker Tees shirts to match Jordan Retros Double Nickel 10s
  • Highly durable structure
  • Solid grip
  • Flexible forefoot
  • Convenient lace lock

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Pretty clunky heel
  • Not for running (1 mile max!)
  • Not for wide feet
Full review of Nike Metcon 8

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Men
Women
Any color
Black/White-Dark Smoke Grey (DO9387001)
nike metcon 8 men s training shoes team red cave purple blackened blue bright crimson f368 60
Grey (DO9328005)
Black (DO9328001)
nike metcon 8 men s training shoes smoke grey dark smoke grey light smoke grey white adult smoke grey dark smoke grey light smoke grey white 1d0e 60
Armory Navy Arctic Orange Obsidian (DO9328401)
Blue (DO9328003)
nike metcon 8 mint foam cave purple volt ghost green 8ad2 60
More colors

Best training shoes for weightlifting

Nike Romaleos 4
92
Superb!

What makes it the best?

Nike's fourth iteration of the Romaleos received a warm welcome from the weightlifting community. Coming from the brand’s elite series of lifting shoes, this version does not disappoint. With top-notch quality from the outside and a secure and stable shoe feel from the inside, it’s hard to go wrong with this lifter.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Phenomenal stability
  • Sturdy platform and sole
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  • Comfortable for a lifting shoe
  • True to size
  • Efficient traction
  • Appealing looks

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Mens NIKE AIR JORDAN 1 RETRO HIGH TOP OG PATENT BRED TRAINERS 8.5 Black & Red
  • Not for narrow ankles
  • Not breathable
Full review of Nike Romaleos 4

Today's best price

Unisex
Any color
nike romaleos 4 black 4544 60
White (CD3463101)
Total Orange/Black (CD3463801)
Marina/Kumquat/Siren Red (CD3463493)

Training shoes with the best comfort

Reebok Nano X3
87
Great!

What makes it the best?

The Reebok Nano line still gets the approval of many fitness enthusiasts with the release of the Nano X3. This trainer is appreciated because of its versatility: it can seamlessly transition from lifting to cardiovascular exercises. It's also stylish and comfortable enough to be worn in non-training contexts. Getting this shoe means having multiple shoes for the price of just one.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Awesome fit
  • Extremely comfortable upper
  • Cloud-like cushioning
  • Good stability for moderate lifting
  • Nice bounce for jumps
  • Sneaker Tees shirts to match Jordan Retros Double Nickel 10s
  • Scene-stealing appearance

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Break-in needed
  • Heavier than average
  • Not for heavier weightlifting
Full review of Reebok Nano X3

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Unisex
Any color
Ftwbla Sofecr Aurorg (LRH15)
Core Black/Energy Glow/Smash Orange (HP6046)
Vecred Vecred Negbás (HP6043)
ftwr white/glen green/vector blue (HP6076)
Ftwbla Glegrn Vecblu (LTE31)
Negbás Orgfla Pugry3 (HP6075)
Purple Oasis/Cold Grey/Vector Blue (HP6051)
Black (HP6041)
More colors

Best minimalist training shoes

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits | What makes it the best?

The Flex Control 4 is one of the cheapest workout shoes from Nike and yet, it doesn’t fall short of the essentials needed for a moderate gym session. Coming from the Nike Flex series, the trainer feels extremely flexible to promote agile, multi-directional movements. This is not to mention how light and comfy it feels on the foot overall.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Comfortable in-shoe feel
  • Lighter than average
  • Very flexible
  • Foot feels planted
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good grip
  • Simple aesthetics
  • True to size

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Durability issues
  • Jordan 1 High "Neutral "
Full review of Nike Flex Control 4

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Men
Women
Any color
Black/white-dark smoke grey (CD0197002)
Black (CD0197004)
White (CD0197100)
Gray (CD0199001)
nike flex control 4 midnight navy metallic silver black men s cross training shoes adult navy 5eda 60
Black/White-dark Smoke Grey-smoke Grey (CD0197003)
Spruce Aura Black Volt White 006 (CD0197006)

Best outdoor training shoes

What makes it the best?

Fitness enthusiasts who have worked out in the Reebok Nano X2 know that while it's great, it really is not for outdoor use. The Nano X2 TR Adventure fixes this by becoming the first-ever outdoor-ready Nano. This shoe sufficiently supports, anchors, and protects. Workout enthusiasts can now enjoy the nature all that they want, even at night!

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Extremely durable for the outdoors
  • Dependable outdoor traction
  • Comfortable upper
  • Reliably protective
  • Functional versatility
  • Great support
  • True-to-size fit
  • Nike Air Jordan 14 Retro

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Not for niche exercises
  • Clunky and heavy
Full review of Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High KO Rush Orange Sneaker DO5047-801 EU 42 NEU

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black/Bold Purple/Acid Yellow (LRI52)
Grey (LIP79)
Core Black/Classic Teal/Pure Grey (GY8901)
Pugry6 Negbás Sofecr (IG0070)
Jurassic World/Modern Olive/Wild Khaki (LRL39)
Hargrn Negbás Soacye (HP9227)
Steblu Negbás Smaora (HP9226)

Best value training shoes

What makes it the best?

Belonging to Nike’s cheapest training shoes, the Legend Essential 2 manages to offer that essential comfort and support for moderate gym workouts as well as recreational use. If you take it easy at the gym, you'll make the best out of this superb deal.

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Pros

  • Insanely cheap
  • Doubles as a casual sneaker
  • Lightweight
  • Breathes well
  • Snug fit
  • Very flexible
  • Reliable grip
  • Looks great

How to Style the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Black Phantom With Matching Outfits Cons

  • Not for wide feet
  • Not the most durable
Full review of Nike Legend Essential 2

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
nike legend essential 2 men s training shoe old royal racer blue dark smoke grey black 3d5e 60
White (CQ9356002)
nike legend essential 2 men s training shoes black obsidian wolf grey racer blue adult black obsidian wolf grey racer blue 19c0 60
nike legend essential 2 gra b7f4 60
nike legend essential 2 black white metallic silver men s shoes adult black 5768 60
nike legend essential 2 preto 7c96 60
nike legend essential 2 pure platinum white chile red metallic silver ea10 60
nike legend essential 2 men s training shoe cargo khaki safety orange sequoia light bone c503 60
More colors

Comparison of the 7 best training shoes

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Best
CoreScore
Users rating
Experts
Best price
Ranking
Popularity
# of colorways

What are training shoes?

Training shoes are used for training (duh). They are constructed differently from running shoes as they target exercises which are performed in the gym:

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  • Strength training/weightlifting: squats, deadlifts, cleans, jerks, bench presses, etc.

Depending on a specific set of activities they accommodate, training shoes are also divided into several categories:

Short runs

(< 5km)

HIIT & Agility training Weightlifting
    moderate

heavy

(Круті жіночі кросівки весна-осінь джордан найк nike jordan)

Comfort-stability-meter.png

Everyday workout shoes

Everyday-workout-shoes.png

Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High KO Bred 2012 27cm

cushioned sole

Nike Jordan 4 Retro BP Pure Money 308499-100

lightweight (~200 - 300 grams/shoe)

Weightlifting shoes

Weightlifting-shoes.png

Best for: Olympic weightlifting

very durable

heavy (~400 - 500 grams/shoe)

elevated heel (15 - 25 mm)

non-compressible platform

Cross-training/CrossFit shoes

CrossFit-shoes.png

Best for: intermediate to advanced gym sessions

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more durable

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better ground feel

low drop (0 - 4 mm)

Jordan 11 Bred shirt black MJ Toon

Training shoes vs. running shoes

Sneakers and shoes Jordan Air Jordan 1 Low on sale a pair of running shoes for a gym session. But if your workout primarily consists of running on a treadmill and doing some light bodyweight exercises, then it’s okay to use runners.

Here are a few reasons why dedicated trainers are a better option for gym use:

Training shoes

Training-shoes.png

Running shoes

Running-shoes.png

support multi-directional movements

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firmer midsole provides stability for weightlifting*

cushioned sole compresses easily under heavy loads which results in wobbling

have extra protection on the sides for rope climbing

soft materials get torn and burned by the rope at the very first climb

thinner sole and lower heel-to-toe drop help to feel the floor better and allow for better control of foot movement

thicker cushioned midsole and higher drop can get in the way of foot sensitivity

generally have Jordan 12 International Flight Japan, especially in the heel and forefoot, to keep the wearer sure-footed

foot has a higher chance of rolling over the edge of the platform if moves laterally

due to their versatile design, they can be used for more activities, including racquet sports, basketball, and handball.

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*If you are particularly interested in how different types of shoes perform for weightlifting, check out our Air Jordan 1 Low Game Time GS CV4892-100.

Frequently asked questions

Can you run in a training shoe?

The same points that make gym shoes excellent for training fail them when it comes to running. However, their performance varies depending on the shoe type:

Jordan 1 low OG Black And Dark Powder Blue EU44 US 10

Everyday-workout-shoes.png

Cross-training/CrossFit shoes

CrossFit-shoes.png

Weightlifting shoes

Weightlifting-shoes.png

can accommodate distances of 1 to 5 miles

not the same level of comfort as in running shoes

not equipped with arch support

Air Jordan XXX1 31 Black Black-Starfish Shattered Backboard

some workout shoes have thicker, more cushioned soles and a higher heel drop, which makes them a bit more comfortable for running

have a similar feel to Jordan 9 University Gold Shirt Gold Trust NONE

take some time and training to get used to

excessive use for running may cause injury

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What kind of training shoes do I need for studio workouts?

We now get a closer look at the all-Gold Air Jordan 10 lightweight workout trainers. In addition to feeling light on the foot, they are:

  • Breathable
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  • Support multi-directional movements, twists, and turns

AIR JORDAN 1 MID TRIPLE WHITE 2.0 2020 Nike SuperRep, New Balance NERGIZE, among Air Jordan 1 Low WMNS Stealth French Blue DC0774-042

What are minimalist training shoes?

This niche of trainers is designed for people who want to go back to the essentials and shift away from external support in favor of acquiring natural strength.

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  • Do not interfere with the natural biomechanics of the foot
  • Provide a barefoot-like experience

Compared to a standard workout shoe, minimalist footwear:

  • Is more flexible
  • How to Style the Air Jordan 1 Mid Lakers With Matching Outfits
  • Has little or no cushioning
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  • Has a low stack height (a thin sole)
  • Lacks arch support

If this is something that resonates with your needs, consider Inov-8 F-Lite or New Balance Minimus.

Can I play basketball in training shoes?

Yes, you can wear training shoes for a game once in a while. But you may not feel enough support and cushion for the best performance.

Dedicated basketball shoes provide the right cushioning to absorb impact from jump shots and runs. They are also equipped with a special kind of traction that’s best for indoor courts.

How we test training shoes

At EdiconnectShops, we are very eager to deliver elaborate scrutinization of training shoes. Due to this, the following are the things that we prioritize:

  • Fairness. We believe that to be able to share pure facts about the shoes, it is important to avoid any sponsorships or donations, especially from brands. So, we buy all the shoes using our funds.
  • Personal shoe impressions. We wear-test these training shoes. From strength and endurance training to core and balance, we do all sorts of fitness and training to get a complete review of the shoes. Plus, we move in them in multi-directions with agility. 
  • Lab testing. We conduct different tests and split the shoes in half so we can identify the factors and features that characterize them. 
Author
Nicholas Rizzo
Nicholas Rizzo

Nick combines 10+ years of experience in the health and fitness industry and a background in the sciences in his role as the Fitness Research Director. During his competitive powerlifting years his PRs have him sitting in the top 2% of bench presses (395 lbs), top 3% of squats (485 lbs) and top 6% of deadlifts (515 lbs) for his weight and age. His work has been featured on Bodybuilding.com, LiveStrong, Healthline, WebMD, WashingtonPost, and many more. Along the way, collaborating with industry leaders like Michael Yessis, Mark Rippetoe, Carlo Buzzichelli, Dave Tate, Ray Williams, and Joel Seedman.