8 Best Cross Training Shoes of 2023 (Must Read Before Buying)

Are you ready to get off of the couch and hit the track? If so, you’ll need to equip yourself with proper cross-training shoes. With the right shoes, you’ll be able to push yourself to the brink, without experiencing a significant amount of soreness. Within this comprehensive guide, you will delve into my recent research into the best cross training shoes for men and women.

List of the Best Cross Training Shoes Reviewed

1. Reebok Crossfit Nano

Reebok Crossfit Nano

Whether you are a runner or a weightlifter, you are going to love the flat sole in the Reebok Crossfit Nano. The flat sole provides maximum support to the foot from the ground up. When you combine this with the lightweight design and construction of the shoe, you truly have a comfortable shoe that is capable of handling a variety of different environments and situations.

The Crossfit Nano is equipped with a rubber sole to ensure your feet always stay secure and in place, even during the most strenuous lifts and runs.

With a Kevlar design, you can truly rest assured that shoes are capable of handling the most extreme conditions. The shoe features a sandpaper-textured Kevlar, which ensures that you will have complete stability and durability whether you are running through the wet woods, or deadlifting 400 pounds on a concrete floor.

Pros

  • Flat sole provides maximum comfort and support from the ground up
  • Lightweight design makes the shoes comfortable for extended periods
  • Rubber sole keeps your foot in place inside the shoe
  • The sandpaper-textured Kevlar provides support in a variety of environments

Cons

  • Might take time to get used to
  • Not the cheapest shoes on the market

2. Nike Metcon

Nike Metcon

The Nike Metcon is definitely designed for looks. It is downright sleek and is also available in a wide variety of color options. However, you shouldn’t be fooled by the appearance. The shoe is also idealistic for running and cross training. It is designed for the most intense workouts, including sprints, climbs and cross training. The shoe offers a flat platform so that you can explode from one stride to another. The dual-density foam provides long-lasting support that you can depend on. This also ensures maximum cushioning, so your feet will remain comfortable from start to finish. The shoe also features a unique Flywire mid-foot. This ensures that the foot will remain locked in place at all times.

The Nike Metcon Ankle-High Sneaker is very attractive. More importantly, it can get the job done in spectacular fashion. Whether you’re running, lifting weights or cross training, you can rest assured knowing these shoes will allow you to push yourself to the limits.

Pros

  • Many cool colors to choose from
  • Great for various workouts, including sprints, climbs, and cross training
  • Offers long lasting support
  • Plenty of cushioning to keep your feet comfortable

Cons

  • Sizing might be off

3. Inov-8 Cross-Trainer Shoe

Inov-8 Cross-Trainer Shoe

The Inov-8 Cross-Trainer isn’t available in many styles, but it is still a great shoe for serious cross trainers. The two color schemes that are available are very sleek. It is most important to point out the fact that this shoe delivers plenty of support and comfort. For instance, the heel is approximately forty-percent denser than the alternatives. This guarantees that you’ll experience less fatigue during your run. This also equates to more explosive speeds.

The shoe is equipped with the highly innovative Meta-flex technology. This delivers maximum flexibility and allows the feet to move naturally for a better stride.

At the end of the day, the Inov-8 Cross Trainer Shoe is great for most. It is very attractive, despite the limited number of color choices. If you want to perfect your performance, you cannot go wrong with this specific cross training shoe.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Very flexible and moves with the foot
  • Delivers plenty of traction
  • Absorbs most of the shock

Cons

  • Few color options

4. RYKA Influence

RYKA Influence

The key to high performance is the type of shoe you are wearing when cross training. This is why many athletes refuse to take any risk and invest in the RYKA Influence Cross Training Shoe. This brand is designed to offer the necessities to ensure high performance, even in the most extreme conditions. The outsole is constructed from rubber materials to ensure more grip and traction. The tongue and collar are padded to prevent discomfort, when bending, stooping and jumping.

The Precise-Return insole provides superior cushioning and bounciness, so with each step it will feel like you are walking on air. The brand logo is located on the tongue and on both sides up the shoe. The cuff or top line is also double padded to eliminate the risks of blisters or discomfort throughout your workout.

The TYKA Influence Cross Training Shoe is key to a high-performance action. The shoes are designed to offer superior air ventilation, flexibility, comfort and arch support. For the price, you will not beat this brand and it will provide the necessities of a more expensive name brand shoe.

Pros

  • Blind eyelets
  • Tongue, collar and cuff is double padded for comfort
  • Ridges on rubber outsole for more traction
  • Available in three different styles
  • Direct-Fuse for more support
  • Flex-Foil for more flexibility
  • Lightweight design

Cons

  • Forefoot is slight narrow
  • Slightly smaller in size (size up)

5. Aleader Mesh

Aleader Mesh

The Aleader Mesh Cross Training Running Shoe is key to high-performance action, even in the most extreme conditions. The sole is rigid rubber for additional traction and grip while offering more durability than other designs. The mesh material will ensure adequate air ventilation, so your feet will stay cooler and dryer for longer periods of time. The insole is cushioned to offer superior comfort, even for extended wear.

The lightweight design is perfect for cross training, since the additional weight will only slow you down and alter your performance. The shoe is designed to replicate the act of walking barefoot, which is a more natural walk. The various styles available will allow you to customize your style for every of the week.

The Aleader Mesh Cross Training Running Shoe will ensure high-performance action, comfort, flexibility, and durability. The shoe’s aesthetics are cool and stylish, which is suitable for all age groups.

Pros

  • Lightweight, breathability desig
  • Hydro-grip outsole for added traction
  • Mesh material is stylish and durable
  • Durable, strong shoelace closures
  • Loop on the heel for easier pulling on
  • EVA midsole for better shock absorption

Cons

  • Could use additional support
  • Insole is slightly thinner but can be replaced with a higher quality brand

6. Adidas Freak X

Adidas Freak X

Cross training is never an easy activity to undertake. It requires a lot of dedication and energy. However, without the right shoe, you are going to make your feet miserable, as they will hurt and ache from all the physical activity. If you are a serious cross trainer and truly want to get the most out of your shoes, you need to consider the Adidas Freak X Shoe. With it’s lightweight design you can literally run, jog, or jump in these shoes all day long, and never feel as if they are weighing you down.

In addition to this, the breathable upper air mesh ensures that your feet stay cool and dry or night long, regardless of how hard you are training.

If you are a dedicated cross trainer, you need a shoe that works just as hard as you, and the Adidas Freak X is that and so much more. The design will not only ensure comfort but will also ensure high-performance action every time you put them on.

Pros

  • Breathable supper air mesh keeps your feet dry and cool
  • Extremely lightweight design
  • Flex grooves on the sole provide maximum traction in different terrain
  • Breathable and comfortable materials

Cons

  • Order half a size bigger, as the sizing chart is off
  • Aesthetics could be better

7. Reebok Yourflex Train

Reebok Yourflex Train

The Reebok Yourflex Train Training Shoe will not only improve your performance but also make your feet extremely happy. The sole is rigid and made from durable rubber materials to ensure more traction than other designs. This is a low-cut training shoe, which is more preferable for most athletes, because it is more stylish and comfortable.

The EVA midsole is lightweight, while the mesh materials allow for adequate air ventilation. For those that are always in a hurry, you will definitely appreciate the lace-up vamp, plus this design will ensure the shoes stay tied throughout your workout.

The Reebok Yourflex Train offers the necessities to ensure high-performance action. The design is stylish and will look great in any type of active or casual wear. Just purchase a ½ larger, just to make sure you get the precise fit.

Pros

  • Heel-to-toe drop – 8-1/2 millimeters
  • Low-cut, breathability design
  • Durable mesh and synthetic materials
  • Elastic-molded jersey upper
  • Provides superior support

Cons

  • Slightly narrow in design
  • Size up to get the precise size

8. Asics Gel-Craze TR 4

Asics Gel-Craze TR 4

It is nearly impossible to lose with Asics. The company is definitely a leader in the athletic shoe industry. If you’re preparing for cross training, you owe it to yourself to check out the firm’s Gel-Craze TR 4 Cross Trainer Shoe. My research has told me time and again that this shoe is a major hit among serious athletes. The shoe is available in three color schemes. Each is very attractive. Plus, it possesses the unique rearfoot GEL cushioning system and the AHAR outsole.

This combination guarantees that the shoe delivers the maximum durability and plenty of comforts. Plus, the shoe is surprisingly lightweight. If you’re looking for the overall package, this shoe cannot and should not be ignored.

The Asics Gel-Craze TR 4 is definitely a great shoe for cross-training events. If you’re interested in preparing for your upcoming race, these shoes will do the trick. Check them out for yourself right away.

Pros

  • Three cool color schemes
  • High Abrasion Rubber delivers excellent durability
  • Gel Cushioning System absorbs the shock
  • Surprisingly lightweight
  • Responsive and bounces back well

Cons

  • A little tight
  • Sizing is off a tad

What To Consider When Investing In Cross Training Shoes

Once you’ve started looking for potential shoes to wear, you’ll likely become overwhelmed with the sheer number of options available. This can make the search far more difficult. The good news is that you’ve found this website. Here, you’re going to learn how to find the right shoes for your unique needs, lifestyle and budget. Below, you’ll learn about the most important factors to consider when attempting to locate the best cross training shoes for women or men.

Budget

First and foremost, you should consider how much to spend. Spending a little extra on a pair of shoes is generally a good decision. Spending more will ensure you get longer lasting quality, more comfort, and an overall better shoe. However, you should be cautious about buying the brand name and not the shoe quality. Perform a little research and ensure you’re going to get the bank for your buck.

Adaptability

Another thing to remember is that a lot of shoes are now equipped with memory foam. This is a good addition. Memory foam is capable of molding to the user’s feet. If you want the maximum comfort humanly possible, you will definitely want to invest in a pair of shoes that is equipped with memory foam. This foam will adapt to the precise contours of your feet, so you get the highest level of comfort! Just be prepared to spend a little more for memory foam. Nevertheless, it is well worth it.

Breathability

Pulling off your shoes after a run can be frightening. If you’re wearing the wrong shoes, you’ll smell a horrible odor and your feet will be soaking wet. This is why it is a good idea to choose a pair of cross training shoes that delivers maximum breathability. With more breathability, your feet will remain more comfortable, cooler, and drier than ever before.

Flexibility

When running along, your feet will go through a unique motion. It is vital to make sure your shoe is capable of accommodating the foot’s natural movement. This is why you need plenty of flexibility. While the shoe should offer stability, it should be flexible enough to bend naturally with your foot.

Absorbent Materials

It is also vital to remember that your feet are going to take a beating. This is true whether you’re working on your feet for 8 hours or running around a track for two. My research has confirmed that professional runners absolutely love shoes featuring absorbent materials. The absorbent material will help to keep your feet comfortable and pain free. Instead of forcing your feet to absorb the impact, the material will receive it. This will take pressure off of your feet, knees, and joints.

Cushioning

When purchasing a pair of shoes for cross training, you’ll want plenty of cushioning. More importantly, you’ll want to make sure that the cushioning is responsive and durable. Just like I mentioned regards to some of the best Crossfit gloves, once you’ve worn the shoes for a few months, the cushioning should still be just as effective as ever. At the same time, the cushioning should fluff back out each time you remove the shoes from your feet. Cushioning is an important 

Perfect Fit Is Vital

Many people do not see the purpose of visiting a local shoe store to get their foot measured. The truth of the matter is that the perfect fit could make a world of difference. If the shoe doesn’t fit perfectly, it will flop up and down. This will cause blisters to develop and could lead to even more serious problems. With this in mind, you should definitely consider getting your foot measured. Do whatever possible to ensure you get the best fit. This is truly a necessity for a serious athlete or someone that cares about the overall health of their feet.

Conclusion

Finding the best cross training shoes for women or men can be surprisingly difficult. In fact, you’ll need to put in a little bit of effort and research. This might seem like a chore, but your efforts and energy will pay off dividends in the long run. Do not rush this decision, unless you love blisters and pain. Simultaneously, it is vital to rely on my research above to ensure you make the best choice!

Here are some sources I used during my research

As you probably know, I’ve done an extensive research to provide you the best and most accurate information. Below I list some of the helpful sources I used while conducting this research.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, Cross-Training
  2. Youtube, Cross Training for Runners, Video, Apr 14, 2015.
Sariel Mazuz

My name is Sariel and I’m on a mission to give you simplified and actionable foot health advice, running tips and footwear reviews. My wonderful team and I work hard to provide you the most actionable and up-to-date information. I wish you all the best on your health journey!

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