The eight best cross-training shoes of 2026, tried and tested by an expert coach
These are the best cross-training shoes and gym sneakers I’ve tested from Under Armour, Reebok, Brooks, Hoka and more
The best cross-training shoes are built to keep up with any kind of workout you throw at them.
They have enough cushioning for short runs, feel responsive during fast-paced gym sessions, and offer sufficient stability for lifting heavy weights.
I’m a trainer with over a decade of experience and I’ve only found a handful of shoes that fit this bill.
Here are my top picks for 2026, along with detailed explanations of why I like them.
Jennifer Rizzuto is a certified personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist who runs, lifts, and enjoys nearly every athletic pursuit there is. She knows first hand how your shoes can affect your performance, and understands design qualities that make certain trainers appropriate for certain activities.
The quick list
These are my 8 favorite cross-training shoes, with picks for all training types. Here, you’ll find household brands, as well as some lesser-known names that could help you step up your exercise game.
The Under Armour Commit 4 is a fantastic shoe for casual exercisers and serious athletes alike. With just enough cushioning and built-in support, it feels comfortable and stable for a wide range of activities.
The Puma PWR Hybrid is a solid cross trainer that feels durable, comfortable, supportive—and best of all—easy on your wallet.
Thanks to a hard insole and minimal heel-to-toe drop, the NOBULL Outwork keeps your feet stable and supported during any athletic pursuit. However, distance runners and walkers may find them too heavy and stiff.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 combines support, stability, and durability with ample cushioning. I especially like it for running—if you overpronate, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better shoe.
The first version of the R.A.D One lacked enough stability for heavy lifting, but the V2 line provides ample support for your weight training days. There’s enough cushioning for high-impact activities, too, along with a tough and durable outsole.
The latest iteration of Reebok’s popular Nano series is sure to please fitness enthusiasts, particularly if you love to lift. However, if you have narrow feet, the Nano X5 may feel too wide.
The Hoka Solimar may be your next go-to sneaker for those with a neutral stride and versatile training schedule. It has the most cushioning of any cross-training shoe I've tested, which is great if you want something that feels pillowy—but might not work for those who like to lift heavy.
This is a supportive cross-training shoe that properly grounds your foot to the floor. Excellent grip and a thick, rubberized outsole make it ideal for outdoor workouts, but it's a heavy shoe, so not ideal for long-distance running.
The best cross training shoes you can buy right now
Best overall
Buy it if
✅ You want a versatile sneaker for a variety of activities.
✅ You enjoy a cushioned yet supported feel for comfort.
✅ You’re seeking a quality training shoe at an affordable price.
Don't buy it if
❌ You’re a powerlifter or heavy weightlifter; consider a lifting or minimalist shoe.
❌ You have very flat feet. The Commit 4 may not provide enough support for long-distance training.
❌ You prefer bright, colorful styles; the color choices are limited.
Whether you’re picking your first pair of cross-training sneakers or adding to your collection, the Under Armour Commit 4 is a well-constructed, versatile choice for nearly any activity.
The Commit 4 has an optimal level of outsole, midsole and insole support and cushioning—there’s just enough support to feel pillowy without sacrificing your foot and ankle stability.
Initially, I was skeptical about how it would hold up during a resistance training circuit, given its thick rubber outsole.
However, it performed impressively well, providing a strong, grounded feel during exercises like goblet squats and lateral lunges.
During high-impact activities like running and HIIT, the Commit 4 really shone.
I breezed through a 5K with happy feet that felt protected with every stride.
Its flexed grooves on the outsole allowed for smooth lateral movements, making movements like side shuffles and burpees comfortable and stable.
Despite its slightly bulky appearance, it’s surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its breathable upper mesh.
One of the best features of the Commit 4 is its price. Wearing these felt comparable to high-end models but at nearly half the cost.
There are only a few downsides to the Commit 4. Like most cross-training sneakers, it has more cushioning than is ideal for weightlifting, making it less stable for anchoring during exercises with a heavy barbell. A barefoot or minimalist shoe would be better suited for that.
While the Commit 4 offers great support, it may not provide enough motion control for overpronators or those with flat feet.
Lastly, if you prefer vibrant, colorful shoes, you might find the options lacking—men’s choices are mainly neutral and women only have a single color option (white).
Best budget
Buy it if
✅ You want a comfortable, supportive pair of sneakers without spending a fortune.
✅ You have a neutral stride and want a short or mid-distance running shoe.
✅ You’re a HIIT lover and want to feel cushioned and stable for high-impact exercise.
Don't buy it if
❌ Your cross training involves lifting heavy weights—look for a shoe with less cushioning and a lower heel-to-toe drop.
❌ You do a lot of CrossFit or obstacle course training and need more specialized traction.
❌ You run long distances and over or under pronate—the PWR Hybrid suits a neutral stride best.
“You get what you pay for” often rings true when it comes to cross-training shoes—usually, the cheaper you go, the more you’ll sacrifice quality.
Thankfully, that’s not the case with the Puma PWR Hybrid. At $80, it's a budget-friendly option that performed well in most activities.
The shoe's cushioning, combined with reinforced ankle and heel supports, makes each stride feel supportive yet pillowy, especially during high-impact exercise like running.
Though it isn't a high-top design, the shoe fit a little higher than most sneakers I’ve tried, which reinforces that feeling of security and support.
I typically only run in sneakers designed for overpronators, yet the Puma PWR Hybrids—designed for a more neutral stride—felt comfortable on a 5K run.
I wouldn’t wear it for longer distances—preferring a motion-control shoe to support my overpronation—but for short runs or walks, the Hybrids felt great. Even better, they didn’t scuff up or show signs of wear after testing.
While the Hybrid’s generous cushioning felt reassuring for high-impact activities, it was somewhat of a hindrance for weight training.
During sets of dumbbell squats and lunges, the cushioning, thick rubber outsoles and 8mm heel-to-toe drop affected my balance and sense of contact with the floor—elements that are crucial for heavy lifting.
The outsoles also boast Puma’s PUMAGRIP performance rubber that’s designed for traction. I found the traction adequate enough for my usual workouts, but I wouldn’t rely on them for an obstacle course or CrossFit workout.
If you’re not into heavy lifting and mainly do light resistance training or cardio, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better quality shoe at this price.
Best for lifting
Buy it if
✅ You need a versatile sneaker for a variety of activities.
✅ You want a stabilizing and supportive shoe that promotes a natural stride and connection to the ground.
✅ You need something strong and water-repellant.
Don't buy it if
❌ Your workouts consist mainly of long runs or walks.
❌ You need a lightweight sneaker.
❌ You prefer a sneaker with lots of cushioning.
The NOBULL Outwork combines the lower heel-to-toe drop of minimalist shoes and the built-in support of the most popular cross-training sneakers.
This makes them a versatile footwear choice for those who enjoy CrossFit, heavy weightlifting, and HIIT classes in equal measure.
I usually wear classic Converse sneakers (or go barefoot) when working with a heavy barbell, since the thick outsoles and excessive cushioning of traditional cross-trainers can affect foot and ankle stability.
Thanks to the Outwork’s 4mm drop and super-stiff insole, I felt stable and anchored to the floor during every squat and deadlift. When I added in a few dumbbell lunges, I continued to feel supported and strong.
Not only great for the squat rack, the NOBULL Outwork also shone during HIIT and circuit training as well.
While they did start to feel a little heavy in a round of box jumps and burpees, I was able to change direction quickly without fear of twisting an ankle or losing balance.
The Outwork’s outer SuperFabric construction is water-repellent and virtually tear-proof, so they would last you through several seasons of CrossFit classes or even a few obstacle course races.
However, if you’re more inclined to run on the treadmill than pick up a weight, the NOBULL Outwork may not be your best choice.
Their hard insoles were excellent when I was squatting and lunging, but they started to make my feet ache halfway through a 5K. The SuperFabric construction also contributed to my aching feet—the Outwork is a durable shoe, but hard to fully break in.
NOBULL suggests purchasing the Outwork a half-size up from your normal shoe size, and this is advice I should have heeded. I tested a pair in my usual US Women’s size 8, and my toes were a bit squished. An 8.5 would have been more comfortable.
Best for running
Buy it if
✅ You mainly walk or run but also do some resistance training.
✅ You’re an overpronator, as this is one of the best motion control shoes out there.
Don't buy it if
❌ You need a running shoe with a super springy, responsive midsole.
I’ve been using the Brooks Adrenaline line for years, as it has allowed me to keep running despite having flat feet. If you also have flat feet, you’d have a hard time finding a better and more supportive shoe.
This is all down to Brooks’ GuideRails technology, which is essentially two pieces of foam on the inner and outer sides of the heel. The clever positioning of this foam reduces excessive shin and heel movement while walking or running, gently correcting your stride and keeping your ankles, knees, and hips in alignment.
This feature has been a game-changer in my running and got me through a 10K race without my usual aches and gripes.
For those blessed with normal arches and neutral strides, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 may lack the bouncy, energetic responsiveness you’d want in a running shoe. Combine that with a bulkier heel and outsole, and you might start to feel like you’re running in bricks instead of Brooks.
The plus side to that lack of springy cushioning is that the Adrenaline GTS 25 performs well during resistance training, which is something that most plush running shoes can’t claim.
I always feel comfortable and supported wearing them for squats, lunges, and deadlifts, although I’d slip them off to lift anything super heavy. They’re great for rounds of HIIT and other high-impact activities too, not to mention walks on the pavement or treadmill.
The Adrenaline’s mesh upper is breathable yet supportive, with a low-profile silhouette. The available colorways are neutrally-focused with a few pops of color. That’s a plus for me, but a downside for those who like flashier sneakers.
The cost is also a drawback—the $155 price tag is steep but worth it if you overpronate.
Best for CrossFit
Buy it if
✅ You need a durable shoe for CrossFit or obstacle courses.
✅ You want a sneaker that’s stable for squats and deadlifts, but also flexible for lunges.
✅ You prefer a less-cushioned shoe for cardio workouts.
Don't buy it if
❌ You walk or run long distances and need a lot of cushioning.
❌ You’re on a budget and looking for an affordable shoe.
❌ You have a wider foot, as this shoe has a narrow toe box.
The first version of the R.A.D One nabbed a spot on our list for its exceptional comfort, stylistic versatility, and lightweight design. The one area it fell short was stability, as it didn’t have the same secure feel on the foot as other cross-training shoes.
I’m happy to report that, where stability is concerned, the R.A.D One V2 has come a long way from its predecessor.
It performed as well as the NOBULL Outwork—my pick for best lifting shoe—on a round of heavy squats and deadlifts.
The outsole is also a bit more flexible than the Outwork’s, which made lunging more comfortable. I wouldn’t necessarily lace it up for any 1-rep max attempts, but for most other lifting activities, it works well.
The R.A.D One V2’s stability extends to high-impact activities, too. Lateral movements like skaters felt supported and safe, with enough midsole responsiveness to cushion box jumps and burpees.
My feet did start to ache a bit after a longer H.I.I.T class, but that was partly because of a narrow toe box I hadn’t broken in yet.
Avid CrossFitters will also appreciate the R.A.D. One V2’s flexibility and durability. The all-rubber wave pattern on the outsole protects the shoe from premature wear and tear, while also providing good traction for rope climbs.
There’s enough cushioning for short bouts of high-impact cardio, but the shoe started to feel heavy and hard on longer runs and walks. I ended up switching them out for my Brooks Adrenalines after the first mile of my run, and my daily hour-long walks started to get uncomfortable around the 45-minute mark.
At $150, the R.A.D One V2 isn’t exactly budget-friendly. However, its high-tech design, durability, and adaptability more than justify the price.
Best for wide feet
Buy it if
✅ You need a durable, supportive and comfortable shoe for CrossFit and heavy lifting.
✅ You like to lift but don’t want to wear barefoot or lifting-specific shoes.
✅ You prefer a wider toe-box for added comfort.
Don't buy it if
❌ You mostly run as the Nano X5 insole lacks cushioning.
❌ You have narrow feet or ankles as the fit may feel too loose.
❌ You’re on a tight budget and need a more affordable option.
Having tested and reviewed previous Nano models, I was particularly impressed with the Nano X5’s comfort and support.
The new aptly named Dualresponse midsole enhances ground contact and stability, making it ideal for my heavy squat and deadlift days, and transitioned well to more cardio-based workouts.
Unlike many shoes with a thicker outsole, the Nano X5 didn’t negatively impact my stability or compromise my barbell work.
The Nano X5 delivered solid support to my feet and ankles throughout each movement.
I felt balanced and cushioned during high-repetition dumbbell lunges and burpees, where the insole—with little toe-spring—provided just enough comfort while maintaining responsiveness.
For avid CrossFitters, the X5’s durability and stability will help you tackle WODs as well as Olympic lifts.
I have prominent bunions on both feet so I appreciated the wider-than-average toe box of previous Nano models.
The Nano X5 is no different; however, the wider fit—especially in the heel—caused some noticeable slippage during wear. Tightening the laces helped, but this is worth noting if you have narrow feet.
Due to its suitability for lifting, the Nano X5 struggles with middle or long-distance running. I made it through my usual 5K without having to switch shoes but my feet were uncomfortable by the last half-mile.
At $140, the Reebok Nano X5 is priced on the higher end of the market but could be a worthwhile investment if you’re serious about training and need to tackle anything your Box throws at you.
Best for comfort
Buy it if
✅ You want a lightweight, versatile shoe that’s comfortable and supportive.
✅ You need a training shoe that transitions seamlessly between running, HIIT and resistance training.
✅ You’re curious about Hoka shoes and prefer to start with a less bulky model.
Don't buy it if
❌ You’re an overpronator looking for a half-marathon shoe—opt for more control and stability.
❌You focus on heavy lifting and need a shoe with firm ground contact and minimal toe spring.
❌You’re on a tight budget and can compromise on weight for a more affordable option.
The Hoka Solimar achieves a near-perfect balance between comfort and stability. Its pillowy midsole is springy and responsive, providing excellent support from toes to ankle.
Known for its thick, boxy soles, Hoka’s designs haven’t always appealed to me, but the Solimar has a sleeker profile and moderate heel-to-toe drop. It offers the cushioning Hoka fans love without compromising a streamlined aesthetic.
What impressed me the most was Solimar’s lightweight feel. Usually, even a moderately-dense outsole will start to feel heavy on the feet as the miles tick by. But the shoe remained lightweight throughout my weekly 5K run. The stretchy, thin mesh upper paired with the airy rubber outsole delivered a barely-there feel.
Most super comfortable trainers sacrifice stability (especially through the ankle) but the Solimar held up surprisingly well during HIIT and resistance circuits. Its lateral support was particularly impressive—the reinforced heel minimized excessive side-to-side motion, keeping me strong and stable during burpees and weighted lunges.
The Solimar signature “Meta-Rocker” technology enhances toe-off smoothness for runners, which is a bonus for treadmill or sidewalk runs. However, this design can reduce stability during weightlifting—heavy squat and deadlifts call for a more stable shoe—or other exercises requiring firm ground contact, but that’s not what the Solimar is designed for anyway.
If you’re an overpronator like me, I’d think twice about the Solimar, especially if you have long-distance runs in your training plan. While the support on these shoes felt great for the most part on shorter workouts, my ankles began to tire after a few kms/miles.
It should also be noted that at $125 the Solimar isn’t outrageously priced, but on the pricier side compared to models like Under Armour Commit 4, which offers similar comfort and support but without the same lightweight feel.
Best for outdoor workouts
Buy it if
✅ You need a shoe that supports and grounds your feet during heavy lifting.
✅ You need a durable shoe for outdoor obstacle courses, like Tough Mudder or Spartan Race.
✅ You prefer a cross training shoe without a lot of cushioning.
Don't buy it if
❌ You’re a cardio junkie who mainly does walking, running or HIIT. Look for a shoe with more cushioning.
❌ You want a lightweight shoe. The Reign 6 feels heavy during wear.
❌ You’re on a budget. At $130, the Reign 6 is a bit pricey unless it suits your needs.
The Under Armour Reign 6 may not be as plush as some cross-training shoes on the market, but that could be a good thing depending on your favorite activities.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Reign 6 is its thick rubberized outsole, equipped with deep grooves for the best traction possible for all-conditions training. This feature is ideal for competing in outdoor obstacle races or CrossFit workouts—I’m sure the Reign 6 has never met a rope it can’t climb.
Many cross trainers use a design feature called toe spring to improve foot propulsion during walking and running. The downside to toe spring is that it can hinder proper contact between your big toe and the ground—one of the reasons why most sneakers aren’t appropriate for lifting.
The Reign 6 doesn’t have any toe spring, and without the springy cushioning found in popular cross trainers, it makes it a top choice for weightlifting—I was able to squat, deadlift and lunge while feeling stable and anchored to the ground. Under Armour’s trademarked “TriBase” triangular plate provides three solid points of contact with the floor, which kept me feeling supported during all my heavy barbell sets.
The Reign 6 shines in the weight room, but may not be ideal for long cardio sessions. It performed adequately for a short HIIT class but left my feet cramping up after a 5K run. The lack of cushioning takes some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to more padded cross training shoes.
Also tested
Buy it if
✅ You want a shoe for all types of resistance training
✅You want a super stable shoe that can handle some impact
✅Your workouts include CrossFit or similar mixed-modality training
Don't buy it if
❌ You have wide, flat feet or bunions—the CXT-2 fit may be restrictive.
❌ You mainly do high-intensity interval training or running—look for more cushioning.
❌ You prefer convenience over laces—the thick tongue could get in your way.
The TYR CXT-2 is the latest version of the brand’s popular cross trainers, designed full of enhanced features and stability. The sides of the shoe and the heel are reinforced with a flexible but sturdy material, making it feel very stable. It also has a supremely grippy outsole, which helped my foot stay anchored and balanced during my workouts.
I usually have to compromise some comfort and flexibility for optimum stability but this TYR upgrade strikes an ideal balance—during heavy squats and lunges, my ankles stayed stable and toes moved freely.
The shoe also has a foam midsole that offers moderate cushion and bounce for dynamic movements. They held up okay for a 20-minute HIIT workout and a light 5K walk-run but there are better options for higher-impact sessions.
Although TYR CXT-2 claims a wider fit than previous versions, the shoe still felt snug across the ball of my foot, especially tricky for anyone dealing with bunions, as I do. I don’t usually expect ‘wider-fit’ models to pinch or cause me issues so that’s something to be aware of.
One minor design flaw was the thick, padded tongue, which pressed uncomfortably against the top of my foot when the lacing system wasn’t tied properly. If you’re someone who likes to slip shoes on and off, this could be frustrating.
Buy it if
✅ You need an athletic shoe that’s versatile enough to wear for workouts and brunch.
✅ You want a comfortable shoe with decent support for walking and light resistance training.
✅ You prefer a trainer made with flexible mesh and thinner outsoles.
Don't buy it if
❌ Your workouts consist mainly of long-distance running or heavy weight training. You’ll want a shoe designed specifically for your stride or activity.
❌You need a shoe with strong lateral support. The upper mesh provides some structure, but there are more supportive shoes on the market.
❌ You’re on a budget. Chances are you can find an equally as versatile shoe for less, although you may be sacrificing some comfort.
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 pairs well with your favorite jeans and your favorite workout clothes, and that’s a flex most sneakers can’t claim.
The mesh upper and lower-profile rubber outsole lend themselves to everyday wear better than traditional athletic shoes, without compromising on the cushioned support that casual shoes normally lack. I wore the Tree Dasher 2s almost all day every day during testing.
Inside the gym, the Allbirds Tree Dasher 2s performed quite well. I felt stable enough for moderately heavy dumbbell squats and deadlifts, and treadmill walks felt comfortable and supported. Short jogs felt okay too, but since I’m an overpronator my feet didn’t feel stable enough to run more than a mile in them. That’s something to keep in mind if you don’t have a neutral stride.
While the mesh upper is a plus for comfort, it’s a drawback for high-impact activity. While doing a round of HIIT, my ankles wobbled considerably during exercises like skaters and high knees. That being said, the Tree Dasher 2s didn’t feel quite as unstable as other mesh shoes I’ve tested and I was impressed at the level of stability they provided given their materials.
The Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 claims to have an “easy slip-on design,” but to be honest I was never successful at doing so and always had to bend over and pull them on. They’re also expensive—at $135, the Tree Dasher 2s are almost as pricey as my tech-heavy running shoes. However, it’s also worth flagging that this is an eco-friendly shoe, made from sustainable vegan materials. If that’s important to you, the price tag is justified.
✅ You prioritize plush comfort
✅ You need a shoe that doesn’t need a painful break-in period
✅ Your routine consists mainly of walking and moderate resistance training
❌ You overpronate or need stronger lateral support for high-impact workouts
❌ You’re on a budget and can compromise on cushioning for affordability
❌ You prefer durable outsoles and robust lateral support.
If comfort is your main priority when choosing a training shoe, the Under Armour Dynamic IntelliKnit Ele-Grit will not disappoint.
Sliding on the Ele-Grit feels like slipping into a pair of house slippers. The upper, crafted with Under Armour’s lightweight “IntelliKnit” material, stretches and conforms perfectly to your feet. I have sizable bunions but these shoes didn’t require the usual (and painful) break-in period—no new-shoe throb at all, which was very impressive.
The shoe’s comfort is further enhanced by Under Armour’s “Flow” technology, which integrates a cushy midsole and responsive outsole. Despite the ample padding, the Ele-Grit shoe remains lightweight and free of bulk, making walking and light resistance training a breeze, while still feeling supported.
However, the shoe does show limitations during high-impact or lateral movements. During HIIT exercises and a mid-distance run the IntelliKnit upper lacked sufficient support on the sides—particularly for someone like me with flat feet and severe overpronation. This led to instability during high knees and squat jumps and achy ankles halfway through a 5K run. If you have a more neutral stride, this might not be as much of an issue.
The knit material, while breathable, has a tendency to stain easily, which, while a minor gripe, could be inconvenient. Additionally, the price point feels steep compared to other versatile options, like the more affordable Under Armour Commit 4 or the durable and trusted Brooks Adrenaline, which is my usual training shoe.
Buy it if
✅ You love Zumba or Jazzercise classes and you want to avoid twisting your knee or ankle.
✅ Your workout routines consist mainly of light or moderate resistance training and treadmill/pavement walks.
✅ You’re a woman who has a hard time finding sneakers that fit your slightly wider toe and narrower heel.
Don't buy it if
❌ You plan to do a lot of heavy lifting, HIIT workouts, or mid to long-distance running. You’ll either want a shoe with minimal or no cushioning, or one specifically designed for running.
❌ You have flat feet and need a lot of motion control and stabilization through the ankle. You’d be better off with a shoe designed for overpronators.
As a certified personal trainer, one of my best pieces of advice is to find an activity you love and stick with it. For many, the high-energy vibes at a dance class are the best form of motivation.
The one drawback to dance fitness formats like Zumba and Jazzercise is that the choreography can sometimes lead to twisted ankles and knees, usually during movements where the ball of the foot is planted on the floor and the knee and hip revolve around it. Thankfully, Ryka has solved that problem with the Devotion XT training shoe.
The Devotion XT’s outsole features a smooth, circular patch under the ball of the foot called a +Pivot Point, which allows the wearer to twist and turn their feet in a fluid motion. I wore them for a 30-minute Zumba class, and for the first time ever I was able to perform the movements without my shoes catching or sticking on the floor. This felt a lot safer (and a lot more comfortable) for my ankle and knee joints.
Not only great for dance fitness, the Devotion XT’s super soft insoles and shock-absorbing EVA make them a good choice for walking or light to moderate circuit training. My feet felt well-cushioned when I tackled a treadmill session.
If you’re into more intense athletic pursuits like powerlifting, HIIT training, or running, the Ryka Devotion XT may not be your best shoe option. During a round of burpees and box jumps, I felt my ankle give way a few times due to the lack of strong lateral support around the heel.
While all that cushioning may feel nice, it will negatively affect your foot stability—a crucial element when you’re lifting heavy weights or running long distances. In fact, I removed the shoes after performing a few warm-up barbell squats because I felt so unstable. Additionally, my foot started to feel a bit squashed after an hour of wearing them, despite the wider toe box.
Buy it if
✅ You’re committed to transitioning into barefoot shoes.
✅ You’re experienced in fitness and seeking a shoe that encourages a more natural stride and ground connection.
✅ You’ve already familiar with barefoot shoes and want a more classic-looking model.
Don't buy it if
❌ You’ve never worn barefoot shoes and need a new pair of sneakers for next week’s 5K.
❌ You’ve just started exercising regularly and finding it hard to stay motivated. Stick with traditional sneakers for now.
❌ You have chronic foot issues or injuries. While the Primus Lite III could help, consult a healthcare professional before making the switch.
Wearing the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III with its wide toe-box, low drop and minimal cushioning will train your feet to move more naturally, more so than traditional footwear. Without the cushy insoles and high-tech stabilizers found in traditional shoes, your foot has to work harder to propel and support your body during movement. That improves your stride and overall strength and stability.
However, transitioning to barefoot shoes and wearing them for all your activities isn’t an overnight process—just as you can’t expect to lose 50 pounds instantly. It takes time to build the necessary foot strength and rushing the process could lead to discomfort or injury. Fortunately, Vivobarefoot offers a free course to guide you through this transition.
I don’t wear barefoot shoes often but I enjoy using them for heavy squats and deadlifts. The Primus Lite III provided a good compromise between my cushioned running shoes and going barefoot. They kept my feet feeling strong, stable and well-connected to the floor during my lifts—more so than with traditional sneakers. Plus, the more classic design helped me feel more comfortable wearing them.
On the flip side, they didn’t work so well for my cardio workouts. A 30-minute treadmill walk in the Primus Lite III left my ankles feeling sore, HIIT circuits were tough on my joints and running my usual 5K wasn’t even possible—I switched shoes half a mile in.
To be fair, my feet have some issues. Genetics and years of wearing unsupportive shoes have left me with overpronation and large, aching bunions. Although wearing the Primus Lite III consistently might improve my foot health, I don’t have the time or energy to make the transition. If I find it challenging as a fitness professional, I imagine it’s even more challenging for beginners. - Reviewed by Jennifer Rizzuto
How we tested the best cross training shoes
Before we recommend a set of the best cross-training shoes, we put them to the test to see whether they offer the right level of support you need for multi-activity workouts. Before we even lace up a pair, we look at whether the shoe has a men's, women's, or unisex edition.
One of the most important factors is how comfortable they feel, so we evaluate the overall fit, the types of materials used, and whether the shoes need to be worn before they soften. Similarly, we check to see if the fabrics are breathable to help you avoid sweaty feet.
As we use them for our own workouts, we consider how supportive they feel during different exercise styles. To see if they're best suited for certain activities, we wear them during HIIT workouts, quick cardio sessions, and resistance training and weight lifting.
We take note of essential design considerations like the amount of lift around your heel, how much cushioning is in the sole and where on your foot it is, and if there's sufficient support around your ankle.
FAQs
What are cross training shoes?
Cross-training is the practice of filling your exercise plans with a range of activities to develop all-round fitness and have fun doing it—variety is the spice of life after all.
Cross-training shoes are designed to handle the demands of this varied fitness routine. This means balancing the cushioning and support needed for short runs and high-impact exercises with the stability required when lifting weights.
On top of this, any cross-training shoe worth its salt will need to be lightweight, breathable and comfortable, allowing you to keep your cool during fast-paced workouts.
Cross-training shoes do have their limitations. Because they have to balance the features needed for a range of activities, it’s unlikely they’ll be as good as purpose-built sneakers for specific exercises.
For example, a cross-training shoe is good for lifting weights and short runs, but doesn’t have the cushioning you want for covering longer distances. You’ll want a pair of running shoes if you’re racking up the miles regularly, although you wouldn’t want to lift weights on their squishy, unstable soles.
Are cross training shoes good for CrossFit workouts
A one word answer might suffice for this one: yes, cross-training shoes are good for CrossFit workouts. However, we wanted to give you a slightly more in-depth response, so called on the expertise of Will Griffiths, retail manager at cross-training specialists WIT Fitness.
“Most of them are actually built specifically with CrossFit in mind,” he explains. “This is because most cross-training shoes owe their heritage to CrossFit, and as such have been designed with those demands in mind.”
He said that, in conjunction with CrossFit’s growing popularity as a sport and training method over the last decade or so, an ever-growing variety of cross-training shoes have hit the market.
And, with CrossFit’s mission statement of providing workouts with "constantly varied functional movements executed at high intensity", cross-training shoes have had to become increasingly versatile and robust to handle the diverse demands athletes throw at them.
Will Griffiths has eleven years' experience in sports retail, with a focus on footwear. For the past five years he has specialized in training apparel with cross training and CrossFit specialists WIT Fitness, working with most major sportswear brands and other training specialists as the company's retail manager. Through this, he has become an expert on training apparel, footwear, and accessories.
What activities are cross training shoes designed for?
Cross training shoes are designed with the sole purpose of not having a sole purpose. Instead, they’re supposed to be able to turn their hand (or feet) to almost any gym-based activity.
“Cross training shoes are designed for a massive range of activities, they should be able to handle anything from a short run to a max back squat,” says Griffiths. “In essence they're designed for versatility, so (can be worn) if you're doing any form of training or working on your fitness.”
So, who can benefit from investing in this flexible form of footwear? In Griffith’s opinion, it’s more a question of who can’t benefit from picking up a pair. “Everyone that trains in a gym or fitness class should absolutely have a pair of cross training shoes,” he says.
What is the difference between running and cross training shoes?
A running shoe is designed with a specific activity in mind: running. A cross training shoe is created to be versatile.
Running shoes usually have a thick layer of foam cushioning in the midsole to absorb the impact of each stride. On top of this you’ll find a lightweight, breathable mesh upper and plush cushioning around the heel.
But if you wear this sort of shoe in a gym environment, you’ll find the thin upper may be damaged by certain exercises, and the generous layer of foam feels unstable when performing exercises like squats.
That’s why the midsole of a cross training shoe tends to be thinner and provide a lower heel-to-toe offset than the midsole of a running shoe; this improves ground-feel and stability, providing firm foundations for lifting weights.
Cross training shoes may also have added stability and longevity features in the upper. For example, raised rubber guards around the midfoot protect the shoe during exercises like rope climbs and provide support during lateral movements, while a wider forefoot allows you to spread your toes for greater balance.
How often should you buy new cross training shoes?
This is a hard question to respond to without knowing a bit of background information first. For example, the answer will largely depend on the number of times the wearer is training each week, as well as the intensity and nature of their workouts.
However, as a ball-park figure, Griffiths estimates most people can expect between one and two years of solid use out of a quality pair of cross training shoes. Although, he adds, “a new color or style will likely take your fancy before you actually need to replace your shoes.”