The best cross-training shoes are designed to provide the support and performance you need across a multitude of different fitness modalities. Cross-training is popular with professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike, as it's a great way to increase endurance and improve performance in your main sport or favorite exercise by introducing new workouts and types of movement into your fitness regimen. Switching up your workout routine and engaging different muscles while you sweat provides a myriad of health and fitness benefits like easing cardiovascular stress and putting typically unused muscles to work, while simultaneously preventing boredom, burnout, and injury.
The fitness industry produces a slew of new cross-training, workout, and training shoes every year, but how do you find the best cross-training shoes for you? That comes down to the shape of your feet, the support you need, and personal preference. That's why we rounded up our top cross-training shoe picks for fitness fans of all kinds in this comprehensive guide.
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The Best Cross-Training Shoes - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Cross-Training Shoes with Arch Support: Nike Flex Control Tr4
- Best Budget Cross-Training Shoes: Reebok Nano 9
- Best Cross-Training Shoes with Arch Support: Reebok Nano X2
- Best Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet: NOBULL Trainer+
- Best Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet: Inov-8 F-Lite G300
- Best Cross-Training Shoes for Running: UA Hovr Phantom 2 Running
- Best Lightweight Cross-Training Shoes: New Balance Minimus TR
- Best Cushioned Cross-Training Shoes: adidas Trainer V
- Best Cross-Training Shoes for Stability: adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3
- Best Cross-Training Shoes for Jumping: Salomon XT6
Best Overall Cross-Training Shoes - Nike Flex Control Tr4
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop:: 4mm
- Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole
- Sizing: Runs small
The Nike Flex Control Tr4 is a dynamic shoe that is designed for indoor and outdoor bodyweight workouts. These cross-trainers come in six different colors, black, white, blue, gray, red, and navy, to complement your aesthetic. They feature a mesh upper for lightweight breathability. A durable overlay wraps from the midfoot to heel for added stability while you move and premium arch support.
You'll get the grip you need during side-to-side movements with the segmented rubber outrigger on the forefront of the sole. Plus, the overlays above the outrigger add stability for quick movements. The Nike Flex sole lets your foot move naturally and a textured rubber tread provides excellent traction. They run a little small, so we recommend sizing up. The Nike brand delivers a performance you can trust, which is why we have named these shoes the best overall.
What We Like
- Lightweight, durable feel
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Excellent traction and stability
What We Don't Like
- Run small
- Pricey
Best Budget Cross-Training Shoes - Reebok Nano 9
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm
- Material: Flexweave upper, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
The Reebok Nano 9 for men and women are designed specifically for CrossFit, via direct feedback from the CrossFit community. These cross-trainers include updated figure-8 Flexweave technology to create a more durable, flexible, and breathable upper. Sprinting and distance runs are made more comfortable via a new cushioned forefront, and a soft rubber midsole wrap adds another level of impact protection.
The Nano 9 features wide bootie construction, a low-cut design, minimal drop outsole, and RopePro tech for a solid foundation for all your CrossFit needs. They come in shades of white, gray, and black, and most feature a bright orange accent tone for eye-catching performance. Keep in mind that while they have a bit more cushion for running, they're not the best cross-trainers for hardcore runners. Some reviewers also say they're difficult to get on due to the side piece design, but once on, provide a comfortable fit for all your CrossFit needs.
What We Like
- Best budget pick
- New Flexweave upper, soft midsole protection wrap, and more cushion in forefront
- Designed specifically for CrossFit
- Work indoors and out
What We Don't Like
- Difficult to get on
- Not great for running
BUY: Reebok Nano 9
Best Cross-Training Shoe with Arch Support - Reebok Nano X2
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 7mm
- Material: Nylon upper, TPU heel clip, rubber outsole
- Sizing: True to size
These versatile and durable cross-trainers are designed specifically for the outdoors. If you're a fan of running stairs, circuit training in the park, or pull-ups on the playground, these are the right shoes for you. They come in a variety of colors ranging from bright orange to more understated white, black, and gray to suit your personal style and have designs geared specifically toward men and women.
They feature Floatride Energy foam in the forefoot for a lightweight, responsive stride. An updated heel collar provides superior comfort and raised lugs on the outsole give you a no-slip grip on wet grass or sandy trails. They're on the pricier end of the spectrum and the sizing seems a bit inconsistent. Some reviewers say they run large, and some say they run small, but most say they're true to size. Overall, though, they're a solid investment. Whether you're in the gym or on the trails, the Reebok Nano X2 delivers the arch support, comfort, and durability you need to take your training to the next level.
What We Like
- Work in the gym; designed for the outdoors
- Floatride Energy foam and cushioned heel collar for comfort and arch support
- No-slip grip on all terrain
- Large assortment of colors
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- Sizing seems inconsistent
BUY: Reebok Nano X2
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet - NOBULL Trainer+
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm
- Material: Mesh outer, rubber soles
- Sizing: Runs small
If you're looking for the best cross-training shoes for flat feet, look no further than the NOBULL Trainer+. These shoes feature a tall EVA midsole for an excellent cushion, while expanded outsole dimensions create extra surface area for a more stable foundation.
Nobull's updated lace system includes internal webbings for lateral and medial stability. These sleek-looking shoes feature a unisex design. They're outfitted with an anatomical sock liner, toe bumper, and perforated microsuede tongue with an additional foam layer for that cushy comfort we all love in a cross-trainer. They do run a bit small, so consider sizing up when ordering, and they are a pricier cross-training shoe.
What We Like
- Best for flat feet
- Great lateral and medial stability
- Sleek design
- Expanded outsole dimensions
What We Don't Like
- Runs small
- Pricey
BUY: Nobull Trainer +
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet - Inov-8 FLite G300
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm
- Material: Mesh outer, TPU cage, knitted upper, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
The Inov-8 FLite G300 are true cross-training shoes, designed to take on a wide assortment of fitness modalities. These shoes feature exceptional grip and stability via a graphene-enhanced outsole. A graphene-infused internal lifting stabilizer in the midsole gives your foot the stability and support it needs to take on any workout you throw at it.
These shoes come in a wide variety of colors and give off a clean, cool aesthetic. A flexible TPU cage and knitted upper give wide feet room to breathe and the stability they need. These shoes provide excellent versatility in your movement and enhanced performance, though if you don't have wide feet, you'll likely be happier with a different pair of cross-trainers. These are expensive but well worth the investment.
What We Like
- Accommodate wider feet
- Durable and versatile
- Great stability and grip
- Graphene-enhanced outsole, graphene-infused midsole
What We Don't Like
- Not for everyone
- Pricey
BUY: Inov-8 FLite G300
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Running - UA Hovr Phantom 2 Running
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 9mm
- Material: QuickDry liner, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
If you're a runner, you're going to love the plush 360-degree comfort of the UA Hovr Phantom 2 Running shoes. These cross-trainers deliver a sock-like fit with wrap-around cushioning. They feature a SpeedForm 2.0 sockliner for a comfortable, stretchy feel. A responsive UA HOVR Foam + Energy Web helps give back the energy you put into every stride.
They're a smart choice (literally), as they're outfitted with a smart chip that connects your shoe to the UA MapMyRun app so you can track your stats, as well as get coaching and training plans. We love the lime fizz color that will certainly make you more visible while running in the dark. Grab these fast because many sizes are unavailable.
What We Like
- Excellent cushion for running
- Smart shoes
- High visibility color
- 360-degree wrap-around cushion
What We Don't Like
- Many sizes are unavailable
- Only come in 1 color
BUY: UA Hovr Phantom 2 Running
Best Lightweight Cross-Training Shoes - New Balance Minimus TR
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 0mm
- Material: Mesh upper, TPU design, rubber sole
- Sizing: Narrow fit
New Balance is a highly reputable brand and the Minimus TR lives up to the name. These are great cross-trainers for those who love training with zero-millimeter heel-to-toe drops. They're feather-light, weighing in at a mere 228.4 grams, making them the best lightweight cross-training shoes.
They feature a midsole with full rubber coverage for cushion, comfort, and support. A mesh upper enhances airflow and the lightweight feel. A TPU-infused design offers exceptional durability, and minimal construction and premium liners allow for a sock-free training session. These shoes aren't great for wide feet as they provide a narrower fit and a 0mm heel-to-toe drop isn't for everyone.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Premium liners
What We Don't Like
- Narrower fit
- 0mm drop isn't for everyone
Best Cushioned Cross-Training Shoes - adidas Trainer V
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm
- Material: Textile mesh, recycled materials, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
The versatility and cushion on adidas Trainer V make them our pick for the best-cushioned cross-training shoes. They feature a high-density midsole that provides soft, efficient cushioning for any workout. The rubber outsole delivers excellent traction both indoors and out, and they come at a very affordable price.
These shoes are made of a durable, breathable, textile mesh. They offer high arch support and TPU reinforcements in the toecap and midfoot increase durability against everyday wear and tear. Every pair contains a minimum of 50 percent recycled content, so they're eco-friendly and part of the solution to ending plastic waste. They're a little stiff out of the box, so they'll take a few sweat sessions to break in.
What We Like
- Plush cushioning
- Versatile and durable
- Eco-friendly
- Budget-friendly
What We Don't Like
- Stiff
- Only come in 2 basic colors
BUY: adidas Trainer V
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Stability - adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 22mm
- Material: Canvas, recycled materials, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
Lift like a pro with adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 cross-training shoes. These shoes provide the platform and support you need to reach those heavy lifting PRs. They feature a 22-millimeter heel-to-toe drop that keeps you stable under the heaviest of loads.
They have a durable canvas upper and use a lace and strap combo to keep your feet firmly strapped in, and a rubber outsole keeps you grounded on the mat. They're made with at least 50 percent recycled materials, making them a good investment for weightlifting and the planet. They're the most expensive shoes on this list, but if you're serious about weightlifting, these are a sound investment.
What We Like
- Exceptional stability and support
- 22mm heel-to-toe drop
- Eco-friendly
- Durable
What We Don't Like
- Very pricey
- Meant for weightlifting only
BUY: adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Jumping - Salomon XT6
SPECS
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10.5mm
- Material: Synthetic, textile, rubber sole
- Sizing: True to size
The Salomon XT6 features dual-density EVA cushioning in the midsole to protect your feet and ensure soft landings after you jump to serious heights, which is why they're our pick for best cross-trainers for jumping. They have a firm TPU welded on abrasion-resistant mesh, for a lighter, less bulky feel.
They're on the pricier end of the spectrum, but if you're into jumping, you'll be pleased with this purchase. They have a unique aesthetic and come in four different colors for a personalized look.
What We Like
- EVA-cushioned midsole
- Unique look
- Abrasion-resistant mesh
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- Not extra durable
BUY: Salomon XT6
What to Look for in Cross-Training Shoes
If you're trying to find the perfect cross-training shoes, you'll want to consider the kind of cross-training you're doing. Are you looking for a more universal cross-trainer? Or something modality specific? Look for a cross-training shoe that provides the support and performance you need for your favorite workouts.
The size and shape of your feet matter when looking for a good cross-trainer. Everyone has different needs depending on the anatomy of their feet. Do you need a cross-trainer with high arch support? Are you wide-footed? Flat-footed? Do you want something extra cushioned or something with a zero-millimeter heel-to-toe drop? Your personal foot anatomy must be considered before purchasing new shoes. This list has been carefully curated to accommodate all different kinds of feet, so you can find the right shoes for you.
Generally speaking, you want to look for a cross-training shoe that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. You want to leave about 1/4-inch of space between the tip of the longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your shoes should be wide enough so your feet don't stretch the upper, and your heel may move slightly, but it should never slide out of the shoe.
FAQs About Cross-Training Shoes
Can you run in cross-training shoes?
Yes, you can run in most cross-training shoes. Some cross-trainers are better for running than others, so be sure to read the description to ensure you're purchasing a running-specific cross-trainer.
Are cross-training shoes good for walking?
Yes, cross-training shoes are good for walking. In general, cross-trainers are designed to accommodate a wide variety of workouts. Everything from walking to weightlifting to plyometrics.
What is the difference between training shoes and cross-training shoes?
Training shoes are best for lateral movement and working out indoors. The sole of a training shoe tends to be flatter than a cross-training shoe. Cross-training shoes are more universal in the sense that they work for a wider assortment of fitness modalities both indoors and outdoors.
How long do cross-training shoes last?
A cross-training shoe's lifespan depends on the intensity, frequency, and type of your workouts. A good cross-training shoe will last for about six months of heavy use.
About the Author
Nicolette is a writer, and health and fitness expert. Nicolette is a quadruple-certified master fitness instructor and teaches indoor cycling, barre, yoga, and versa climbing. As a writer, Nicolette specializes in tech pertaining to all things exercise-related.
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