Getting fit and staying healthy is a full-time job.
It takes dedication, discipline, and an unending supply of willpower to push through your workouts and make it to the end of your cardio session. But if there’s one thing that can break your concentration and keep you from reaching those goals, it’s a pair of shoes that doesn’t quite fit right or isn’t built for high impact work.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best shoes for high impact cardio here on [website name]. Whether you’re looking for something light and breathable or something with support and stability, we’ve got you covered!
Best Shoes For High Impact Cardio
The 18 Best Cross-Training Shoes For Every Type Of Workout For 2022
How many pairs is too many? Asking for a friend.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
Your workout is only as good as the shoes on your feet. That’s especially true when it comes to cross-training, which calls for all kinds of movement: front to back, side to side, up and down, you name it.
If you’re going to go all-out in a HIIT or bootcamp workout, you need a shoe that can handle everything from box jumps and cardio machines to weight lifting. Not only will the right shoes enhance your performance, but a secure and comfortable fit can help you prevent injury, too.
1BEST FOR HIITWomen’s HIIT Training ShoeReebokRead More$64 AT AMAZON
2BEST DESIGNED FOR WOMENInfluence Training ShoesRykaRead More$64 AT AMAZON
3BEST FOR STRENGTH TRAININGMinimus Tr Boa V1New BalanceRead More$127 AT AMAZON
4BEST FOR HIGH-IMPACTAir Zoom SuperRep 2 Training ShoesNikeRead More$166 AT AMAZON
5BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SHOECharged Aurora Cross TrainerUnder ArmourRead More$65 AT AMAZON
Mixing up the type of physical activity you do can help you avoid overtraining in any one domain—and therefore, avoid getting injured. Of course, cross-training is a broad term that includes many fitness pursuits, each of which comes with its own perks. For example, one 2017 study from the European Journal of Applied Physiology found that high-intensity interval training boosted the metabolisms of exercisers past finishing as opposed to participants who exercised at a steady-state pace.
Ready to sweat? These are the best cross-training shoes you can buy right now, per online reviews.
1
BEST FOR HIIT
Reebok
Women’s HIIT Training Shoe
pros
Durable
Supportive
cons
Not ideal for running
Made for explosive movement, these sneakers were designed with stability, grip, and durability in mind. They offer targeted support and a secure fit that will get you through all your jumps.
Rave review: “These shoes are the perfect shoe for HIIT workouts. The shoes grip the floor and have a very comfortable base when doing squats.”
2
BEST DESIGNED FOR WOMEN
Ryka
Influence Training Shoes
pros
Midsole cushioning
Ergonomic design
cons
Not very lightweight
This shoe shines in high-impact studio workouts. You’ve got “Flex-Foil” layers that support lateral movement, midsole cushioning that targets pressure points for extra comfort, and an ergonomic design specifically made for women’s feet. What more could you want in a cross-trainer?
Rave review: “The MINUTE I put them on and walked around, I felt like my feet were sighing with relief and saying “finally”…They are lightweight, yet support your feet so well and have padding in all the right places.”
3
BEST FOR STRENGTH TRAINING
New Balance
Minimus Tr Boa V1
pros
Highly cushioned
Ventilation is good for hot weather
cons
Not the most neutral color
These cross-trainers from New Balance are made with mesh fabric for increased ventilation and cushy foam for a customized fit. They’re also designed with premium liners that allow you to go sock-free if you want to.
4
BEST FOR HIGH-IMPACT
Nike
Air Zoom SuperRep 2 Training Shoes
pros
Good for shock absorption
Highly cushioned
cons
Not ideal for hot weather
These next-level sneakers from Nike were constructed to absorb impact from high-intensity movement and provide cushion for lifts. They’re made with a special plate that runs the length of your foot to support multidirectional movements by distributing pressure and activating responsive cushioning.
Rave review: “These have great traction for floor workouts, the design makes them perfect for burpees, and the wide heel base is great for squats. They hit on everything I do in my workouts and make for a more comfortable workout overall.”
5
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SHOE
Under Armour
Charged Aurora Cross Trainer
pros
Breathable
Lightweight
cons
Not ideal walking shoe
These trainers boast a breathable upper that helps keep your feet cool and dry. They weigh just 7.8 oz, so they won’t weigh you down.
Rave review: “So good! I wear these 3-5x a week to a variety of classes at the gym and after 3 months they have held up very well! This was probably the 5th pair I tried and they were so worth it! Comfortable, durable, are TTS AND work well for running, HIIT and lifting.”
6
EASIEST SLIP-ON
New Balance
FuelCore NERGIZE
pros
Stylish
Supportive
cons
Not great for running
ICYMI, this New Balance cross trainer is both easy for slipping on and off your feet *and* is great for those who need arch support. Basically, you can wear these sleek, comfy shoes through all of your training needs without your feet feeling achy AF.
Rave review: “I love these shoes. They are great to slip on and go, match any outfit, and are super comfy.”
7
BEST HEEL SUPPORT
ON
Cloud X Sneakers
pros
Highly supportive
Feature shock absorption
These Cloud X’s offer some of the best heel support thanks to a precision-molded heel cap. And the brand also touts the shoe’s ability to help your foot better absorb impact.
Rave review: “Love the way this shoe fits and looks! They give me the stability during HIIT workouts that I’ve been looking for!!”
8
BEST LACING SYSTEM
Hoka One One
Hupana Flow
pros
Very supportive
Breathable
cons
Not ideal for more narrow feet
One of the coolest features of these Hoka shoes is the unique lace-up closure with double eyelets, which delivers additional lockdown across the instep during quick movements. Plus, the open knit fabric is super breathable.
Rave review: “Use them at the gym for HIIT training! Easy to lunge in and do plyo movement then straight to the treadmill for a run. The shoes are comfortable, true to size, and are multi purpose.”
9
BEST FOR ANKLE SUPPORT
APL
Wave Sneakers
pros
Fashionable
Super light and breathable
cons
Pricey
If you’re looking for a cross-trainer that can help you crush your workout and score some serious Instagram likes, look no further than these trendy sneaks from Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL). Not only are they super light and breathable thanks to the Techloom upper, but they also feature a mid-cut silhouette that offers plenty of support and ankle stability. Go ahead, do it for the ‘gram.
Rave review: “These are the best studio cross-trainers I’ve found. The perfect amount of grip and support, but still very light.”
10
BEST FOR RUNNERS
Brooks
Adrenaline GTS 21
pros
Versatile
Supportive cushioning
cons
Lack of bottom grip doesn’t make it ideal for HIIT
You can log miles and cross-train in the latest iteration of the Brooks Adrenaline. Their lightweight design allows you to move freely while still providing cushion. They also include new tech that helps limit excess foot movement that can harm your knees.
Rave review: “These shoes are like wearing supportive clouds on my feet. They actually position my foot and ankle properly so I don’t have pain or fatigue.“
11
BEST FOR SHOCK ABSORPTION
Puma
Optic Sheer
pros
Fashionale
Shock absorption
cons
Not ideal for running
These sneakers are made with cushioning and shock-absorption technology that truly makes each step comfortable no matter what terrain you’re conquering. And with a design inspired by luxury sports cars, they’re as fashionable as they are functional.
Rave review: “Great shoe for lifting and light cardio. I feel very stable when squatting or doing any leg work. I usually do cardio on the treadmill before lifting, and light running is easy in this shoe.”
12
BEST FOR BREATHABILITY
Ryka
Dedication XT Training Sneaker
pros
Slip-on
Breathable
cons
Not ideal for running
No need to lace these up. Instead, these sneakers come with a pair of straps that can be tightened according to your preference. And if sweaty feet is a concern, you’ll love the breathable mesh fabric that they are made with.
Rave review: “I exercise at least five times a week and needed a good pair of cross-trainers. My instructor recommended Ryka. These are extremely comfy.”
13
BEST VERSATILITY
Hylete
Circuit II Cross-Training Shoe
pros
Stylish
Affordable for the value
These cross-trainers come with three interchangeable insoles that you can swap out depending on what activity you’re doing including:
lift. – 0mm drop – Stability. Ideal for weightlifting.
train. – 4mm drop – Versatility. Perfect for cross training
run. – 6mm drop – High impact. Built for running
Rave review: “I am extremely pleased with the Hylete shoe. It is the best training shoe I have ever worn. Very comfortable in the toe box and just the right cushioning in just the right place. The three different inserts are brilliant! I love being able to quickly switch out the insert to match the WOD. You will not regret buying these shoes! I love Hylete merchandise and have been telling all my CrossFit friends about them.”
14
MOST STYLISH
adidas by Stella McCartney
Earthlight Mesh Shoes
pros
Trendy
Breathable
cons
Pricey
The perfect mix of cute and comfy, these sneakers by Stella McCartney and Adidas provide an ultra-secure fit to keep you moving, whether you’re making it through dance cardio or circuit training. The knit upper is as cozy as it is breathable, BTW.
Rave review: “I really love these sneakers. They are so comfortable and so stylish. Jeans or gym wear, you can rock these! I receive compliments each time I wear them!!!”
15
BEST ROOMY TOE BOX
Reebok
Nano X Cross Trainer Running Shoes
pros
Good for wide feet
Supportive cushioning
cons
Not ideal for narrow feet
These sneakers are designed to handle powerful movements thanks to their support cage and responsive cushioning. They’re also constructed with a wide toe box to ensure you’re comfortable while you perform. No squished toes here!
Rave review: “This was my first time purchasing a pair of Reebok’s Nano Shoes and the Nano X is such a great shoe! I have been doing Crossfit for over 2 years, I’m used to being hard on my feet and doing high intensity workouts and these shoes kept my feet comfortable throughout the entire workout. My arches didn’t get sore at all, which is a big win!”
16
MOST SECURE FIT
Under Armour
HOVR Apex Cross Trainer
Highly supportive
Good for running, too
Under Armour designed these sneakers with a foam that molds to your feet to maintain energy and limit the impact you feel with each step. Plus, webbed lacing locks your foot in place, giving you a secure, glove-like fit.
Rave review: “There is so much cushion inside the shoe I don’t even need to tighten the laces, I can even just slip them on and go. I love these shoes so much that I may even get a second pair just because!”
17
BEST CROSSFIT SHOE
NOBULL
Neon Pink Camo Trainer
pros
Super supportive
Stylish
cons
Sizing often out of stock
These NOBULL shoes were specifically designed for cross-training, and are on the stiffer side due to intentional guard plates that create a 360-degree shield around your foot.
Rave review: “Great shoe for cross-training. Stiff enough for lifting and flexible to get all the burpees done!”
18
BEST MINIMALIST SHOE
Vibram
V-Soul Fitness and Cross Training Yoga Shoe
pros
Versatile for hiking or non-workouts
Supportive grips on bottom
cons
Not a walking shoe
If you prefer a minimalist shoe, these Vibrams are the perfect cross-training shoe for you. The rubber sole offers just enough grip and support, while the Velcro straps help keep them secure during any workout.
Rave review: “I workout everyday and walk roughly 3 miles each evening at least 5 nights a week. I absolutely love these from yoga to lifting. I am a huge fan of walking barefoot, these help have a layer of safety between you and whatever if lying on the ground, but doesn’t provide cushion for say walking on rocks and such. It is just like walking on them barefoot.”
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