The best gym trainers are not necessarily the most expensive running shoes on the market or the fancy new “fitness shoes” being marketed by big brands.
If you haven’t guessed, this article refers to gym shoes – not gym trainers as in people…
Now some people call them gym trainers, the Americans refer to them as “sneakers” and in South Africa, they are called “Tekkies”.
Running shoes, like the type of shoe you would wear to go and do a 5k local park run, seem to be the go-to foot attire for gymgoers, but they are not ideal and not suitable at all for some disciplines.
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3 Reasons Why You Need Specific Gym Shoes!
YES. There are a few reasons why I would recommend having dedicated gym shoes, some may surprise you. Ultimately personal preference is always the deciding factor but bear with me on the following points before you make up your mind.
Just to be clear, I am referring to weight lifting and or strength training in the gym. If you are simply doing cardio exercises such as rowing, cycling or running on a treadmill then your regular running shoes are fine!
1. Stability
This is the big one. You need to have maximum stability when doing weight training, especially when you start lifting heavier. As a consequence, you need a training shoe with a flat sole.
Running shoes are simply not designed to provide static stability and are therefore not ideal.
I do not recommend going barefoot either, for safety reasons. However, that would be better in terms of the actual exercise.
Water shoes or Converse-type shoes are a more suitable option but bear in mind that they are not the best option as they would not provide the same level of protection as say Adidas Znsored if you were to drop a weight on your foot.
2. Safety
I see many clients and other gym goers who take their shoes off when lifting weights or doing exercises such as squats that require maximum stability. This is fine in terms of stability for doing the exercise and if you are in a home gym or have no other risks to consider, it is a great choice.
The only downside for you is that your feet are less protected, should you drop a weight. This is not something that should happen anyway, but accidents do occur.
However please consider other gymgoers. This brings me to the 3rd reason:
3. Hygiene & Etiquette
Common sense is not always common…
The old Health & Safety Annoyance
Let’s be honest, nobody wants to trip over other people’s shoes when moving about in the gym.
Neither do they want to stand around mindlessly wondering if the pair of shoes left by the Smyth Machine indicates someone is using it or has just been left there whilst their owner is busy working out somewhere else…
If you are gonna train without shoes then at least make sure you don’t leave them around for others to trip over. Furthermore, throw some powder in them, no one likes to sniff their way through the equipment.
Socks with Holes
In the world we live in today there is no real excuse for walking around with socks that have holes in, yet some people do.
This is not something I want to see and I doubt I am the only one that wants to see other people’s toes. Ok, I admit some people have foot fetishes, and I am excluding them in this observation.
… and Feet that Stink
What is even worse, is when you move about in the gym, there is always that one person who takes their shoes off and signals it to the whole gym with a pungent aroma.
In many instances, we already have to deal with BO. Adding your foot flavours to the mix is not welcome!
Dirt from Outside
The UK is wet and muddy. It is just one of those things. Especially unattended gyms such as Anytime Fitness can suffer from patrons who simply don’t care about the experience for others. You know the type who does not replace weights or wipe equipment when they are done using them.
The worst offenders are the “builder types” that rock up in the gym with “work boots”. You know the Timberland or DeWalt or Dickie Boots? Yes them. They pick up dirt & little stones that they somehow deposit on the gym floor.
You may not have noticed this before but as someone who spends all day in a gym, this happens too frequently. These boots may offer you stability but they are a pain for the rest of us.
Are Dedicated Gym Trainers Worth it or Can I Simply Go Barefoot?
Of course, you can simply go barefoot. However, just because you can wipe your butt with your non-dominant hand, doesn’t mean you should. You run a much bigger risk of getting your hands dirty…
Most people don’t spend money on the best gym shoes not because they don’t have the money but because they don’t know they should.
Do not be most people, get online and look for a good training shoe! (not a running shoe)
How Does Footwear Impact on Your Gym Workouts?
To make the best of your gym sessions you need the right equipment and technique. Your shoes are a major part of your equipment checklist. Lifting heavy weights requires weightlifting shoes with rubber soles for good grip and higher laces for ankle support.
HIIT workouts (high-intensity interval training) require a light comfortable gym shoe with lots of support and cushioning.
Yes, I suppose you can do circuit training in heels and that may do wonders for your Instagram following but you are likely to injure yourself if you attempt box jumps in pumps.
Gym Trainer Attributes: What You Need and Need to Avoid
If you are planning on facing a squat rack anytime soon, or you are going to do any similar exercises that require stability, you will be well advised to invest in some flat-sole shoes that have a good grip and a flat heel. You want to get as close to a barefoot situation as possible without compromising on protection.
For exercises that require running or jumping a training shoe that is comfortable, light and offers decent cushioning is ideal.
Running trainers are all different and some provide specific support for pronation, like Asics Gel Kayano whilst others focus on supination like the Asics Cumulus range.
Avoid
Stay away from heavy boots, flip flops or any other shoe that is designed for a purpose other than training in the gym. Yes, ballet flats will work for doing a heavy squat but they would prevent your toes from flaring out, which is the ideal way to “grip” the floor.
Just remember this simple rule of thumb – A sheep is not a scrambler. Everything is designed with a specific purpose, don’t get clever to save yourself a couple of pounds. You will regret it in the long run.
Which are the Best Gym Trainers?
Remember, you need to go for shoes that fit your requirements. This is literally a case of not being able to go for a one-size-fits-all approach.
Training shoes? They usually have a lower heel drop to keep your feet closer to the ground, which is great for adding stability, especially when you’re lifting heavy weights. Running shoes, though, they’re all about cushioning your steps as you stride along, giving you a bit of your energy back in an efficient way to help propel you forward.
What I Wear
- Price
- Style
- Comfort
- Only available in hi-top
- Limited size range for some reason
So these are my daily go-to shoes. I have a few pairs of them. They are relatively cheap, do a great job and look good. Sitting on a tough rubber outsole, this mid-cut shoe mixes canvas and suede for the upper.
It’s got a cushy padded collar and LIGHTMOTION+ cushioning so your feet feel super comfy. Just pair them with some cropped or tapered trousers and you’re good to go. Plus, these support the sustainable cotton farming initiative.
- The herringbone pattern on the outsole offers improved traction for agility training.
- Available in both low-top and high-top designs.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to all tastes.
- The stiff Superfabric upper requires some time to become comfortable.
When I am not wearing Znsored you will find me in these. I love’em. They are more expensive than the Adidas, and if that were not the case it would be the only gym shoe in my closet. That says it all.
Best Overall Gym Shoe
- Reworked upper improves durability over previous versions.
- Responsive underfoot feel thanks to Nike React foam.
- Rigid heel is not as conducive to long-distance running.
- Slim midfoot might not be ideal for athletes with wider feet.
Every fresh release of the Nike Metcon captivates me, but the latest version? Absolutely smashing!
What’s more, these trainers ace rope climbs – a feat all the more impressive considering they’ve ditched the medial rope guard.
Although the Metcon 8 is not ideal for running circuits due to its rigid and uncomfortable heel clip over longer distances, it continues to be a top choice for the majority of training activities.
- Surge NRG Foam delivers exceptional responsiveness, making it perfect for plyometrics and dynamic exercises.
- The innovative Stability Platform facilitates a solid stance during lifting sessions.
- May initially feel rigid during the first few uses.
- The mesh upper may face durability concerns over time.
TYR made a spectacular debut at the 2022 CrossFit Games, wowing everyone with its first training sneaker that notched up several top-10 finishes. The CXT-1s have completely won me over with their incredible stability, providing a solid foundation for those heavy squats and deadlifts.
I would say, I am not convinced about how durable the upper mesh would be… I don’t own a pair so cannot testify…
Best Budget Gym Shoe
- Quality design & technology.
- Great Price.
- Show offs may want show to off brand name?
The Fuse 3.0, reimagined with a focus on strength training, introduces a new dual-density midsole that enhances comfort. Additionally, a redesigned last promotes a wider toe splay, significantly improving balance, stability, and comfort during both short and intense, long workouts.
This version also boasts an upgraded Pumagrip outsole, featuring custom-designed flex grooves that support explosive movements and provide superior traction.
The newly designed Hex TPY heel clip offers increased support at the back of the foot, while the upper has been optimised for greater flexibility and breathability.
Best Weightlifting Shoe
- A heavy silhouette works best for solid stances.
- Metal clasps affixed to the straps enhance durability.
- The toe box is significantly angled, which may feel restrictive for some individuals.
- A raised heel is suboptimal for performing deadlifts.
Looking for trainers that’ll back your Olympic lifting goals? These Nikes have got you covered with top-notch underfoot stability, all thanks to a flared heel design that gives you a wider base.
Plus, they come with a dual-strap overlay for that extra snugness over your foot.
Just a heads-up for those with wider feet – it’s worth taking a closer look at the size chart.
These bad boys have a pretty narrow toe box, which might not be the comfiest for long wears.
Best Gym Shoe for Agility Workouts
- The herringbone pattern on the outsole offers improved traction for agility training.
- Available in both low-top and high-top designs.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to all tastes.
- The stiff Superfabric upper requires some time to become comfortable.
Nobull trainers have made their mark in the fitness world, offering a solid mix of performance and style with every style they drop.
They’ve got better traction and are just comfier than the main offerings. And if you’re after that extra bit of ankle support, Nobull’s got you covered with high-top versions in the Trainer+ range – perfect for those lifts.
Granted, the minimalist look isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but in my book, these trainers make hitting the gym not just easier, but also way more stylish.
Most Durable Gym Shoes
- A Cordura upper is perfect for tackling even the toughest of training sessions.
- An 8mm heel-to-toe drop pretty much works for everyone.
- Tough material needs a bit of time to soften up.
- Weighing in at 10.8 ounces, this profile is heavier than others.
Take a look at these remarkable trainers from Goruck. The Cordura upper is a standout feature, offering exceptional durability to withstand extensive wear, though it does require a brief break-in period.
Moreover, the Ballistic Trainers feature a Gradient Density midsole that provides ample stability and support, ensuring comfort and security with every step.
Additionally, these shoes are designed for ease of cleaning, maintaining their stylish appearance throughout your fitness journey.
Best Gym Trainers for Indoor Running
- The Pebax plate enhances energy return while minimising strain on the lower body.
- A broad footprint ensures substantial stability beneath your feet.
- Debris and gravel can become lodged in the cut-outs across the outsole’s footprint.
- Surprisingly, a mesh upper can often feel quite warm for some individuals.
The Mach X features a Pebax plate, offering the same responsive feel as some marathon trainers, yet its springy rigidity doesn’t overburden your shins and lower body like its carbon counterparts.
The outcome is a running shoe that excels in daily training, striking the perfect balance between speed and comfort.
However, some runners say that, despite the breathable mesh upper, the shoe tends to retain heat.
Best Barefoot Gym Shoe
- Zero drop footwear facilitates complete foot contact with the ground, making it optimal for executing deadlifts.
- The stretch collar ensures a snug, sock-like fit around the ankle, enhancing comfort.
- Lacks the breathability of other gym shoes featured in this list
- Some may find the minimal cushioning underfoot to be uncomfortable.
Barefoot running enjoys a dedicated fan base, and fortunately, enthusiasts now have choices that are equally comfortable on both the deadlift platform and the open road.
The zero-drop design of these shoes ensures maximum contact with the ground, enhancing your performance whether you’re sprinting towards the finish line or preparing for a heavy squat.
Although barefoot running might not suit everyone, for cross-training athletes who embrace this style, these shoes are the ones you should turn to.
Most Versatile Gym Trainers
- Sufficiently adaptable to support a variety of workout disciplines
- The UA WARP upper ensures superior breathability throughout your training sessions.
- The lacing system may exert undue pressure on the top of the foot.
- Certain athletes might prefer a greater heel-to-toe drop, especially when performing squats.
Revitalising your gym routine with diverse workouts and exercises can banish the tedium commonly felt during training. Thus, the ideal footwear should effortlessly adapt from intense weightlifting sessions to dynamic CrossFit exercises.
The Micro G Foam midsole delivers superior stability for strength-focused activities, while the UA WARP upper ensures durability and breathability.
However, it’s important to allocate time before your workouts to adjust the lacing system properly.
Best Gym Trainer for Recovery
- Simple slip-on design is easy to get in and out of
- Multiple colours for any style and personality
- They are UGLY
- Holes across the upper can lead to “squeaking,” especially for athletes with high arches
- Raised nodes across the footbed are comfortable and relaxing but won’t replace a normal recovery routine
- Did I mention they are UGLY
Yes they are for post workout and you can shower in them bla bla bla. I would not be caught dead in them. That is what flip-flops are for.
Now in my mind, this is the result you would get if you cross breed a pair of Crocs with a pair of Sketchers… nether of which you should wear anywhere if your age has more than one digit!
Seriously – just don’t!
Most Stylish Gym Trainers
- The three-piece segmented midsole offers a pleasing sensation underfoot, balancing cushioning and
- Inspired by the McLaren Senna, the heel padding offers a luxurious, secure sensation with every step and stride.
- Footwear inspired by supercars carries a price tag to match its high-octane inspiration.
- A taller stack height coupled with a carbon plate results in a design that better aligns with running-style exercises.
If a supercar is beyond your budget, i guess the alternative is to walk everywhere with super car like shoes… Influenced by McLaren, their design elevates any gym attire from ordinary to luxurious instantly.
Just as you would reserve your supercar for perfect driving conditions, these sneakers are best kept for running or accessory exercises – avoid wearing them for squats or deadlifts.
In fact I would argue these shoes are almost as pretentious as the people wearing them.
Conclusion
Don’t overthink this and go with what you are comfortable with and can afford. The most important thing is that you train regularly and do so safely and sustainably. The shoes or the clothes are simply aides to help you on your health and fitness journey.
If you need guidance with your journey, be sure to look at the online coaching offer in my services section.
If you have any queries or suggestions, please leave a comment below!
