Best Training Shoes
in 2021
Best All-Around
Honestly, the Metcon has been our go-to for years. And it just keeps getting better. The cross-trainer has great support, it's well balanced and it's practically indestructible. It's about as versatile as a training sneaker can get. And version 6 improves the all-around shoe by boosting breathability and comfort, with a roomier toe box and a new mesh layer. Plus, morning exercisers will appreciate the new “step-in entry” with laces you only have to tie once.
Metcon 6 FlyEase,
$130 / $110.97 by Nike
For Weight Lifting
When it comes to lifting, you want simple shoes with flat soles. Nathan McCallum, trainer and director of Milestone Strength, often wears them to the gym when he lifts. And Dr. Monara Dini, who specializes in sports medicine at UC San Francisco, gives them a green light as well, saying that they're especially great for squats, bench presses and deadlifts.
Chuck Taylor All Star,
$55 by Converse
For a
Barefoot Feel
There are a lot of guys who say you should be training and weightlifting barefoot. But that comes with some dangers—feet are more open to injury from stress fractures—and you don't always get the best traction. This low-profile sneaker from New Balance feels close to barefoot but its knit upper is infused with strong TPU fibers, while a durable Vibram sole that has a molded external heel counter for added stability.
Minimus Prevail,
$119.99 by New Balance
For Cross Training/
CrossFit
Much like Nike's Metcon, each successive Reebok Nano keeps getting stronger. The latest evolution is designed for pro-level training. The breathable knit upper has integrated support for multidirectional movement and a “Comfort Collar” at the ankle to provide support for everything from squats to sideways shuffles. And the popular Floatride Energy Foam cushioning in the forefoot provides a flexible and responsive feel.
Nano X1,
$130 by Reebok
For HIIT
and Bootcamps
For these kinds of workouts, you need a shoe that can provide stability when you're jumping, working through compound movements or giving it your all on the rower or bike. This is a flexible training shoe packed with performance technology that keeps you comfortable and stable throughout your workout.
F-Lite 245,
$135 by Inov-8
For Treadmill Runners
One Valet. editor who only runs indoors swears by these lightweight, streamlined sneakers. And they've garnered plenty of praise on SoleReview due to their snug fit and durability. The sturdy midsole is firmer than most running shoes, but the firm foam is high-density for better efficiency. And the X-shaped “transition zone” on the sole is engineered to go from heel to toe quickly while maintaining connection to the treadmill surface.
Launch 7,
$100 / $74.95 by Brooks
For Longer Runs
Matt Taylor, the founder and CEO of running-gear brand Tracksmith, recommends the classic adidas Boston for its versatility. He's someone who has tried them all but always returns to the Boston because they're lightweight yet offer stability and cushioning—key if you plan on logging lots of miles.
Adizero Boston 9,
$120 / $96 by adidas