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Best Shoes for the Gym: A Simple Guide for Every Workout

  • The Anthos Team
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read
Best shoes for the gym
Photo by @isaiahl7

What are the best shoes for the Gym?


Wondering what the best shoes for the gym are? Should you wear running shoes to lift weights or for HIIT workouts? Do those flat shoes really help? Would Crocs work too?


If you're just getting started with fitness or looking to upgrade your gym shoes, this guide will help you choose the best shoes for your workouts based on how you train.


Step One: What Do You Actually Do at the Gym?


Before looking at brands or styles, think about what kind of movement or workouts you’re doing most. Your training style should guide your shoe choice.


If You’re Strength Training (Squats, Deadlifts, Machines)


You would benefit most from shoes that provide stability.


Look for:

  • Flat soles with minimal drop for better force transfer

  • Minimal cushioning so you don’t wobble under weight


Recommended:

  • Converse Chuck Taylors

  • Vans

  • Nike Metcon

  • Reebok Nano

  • Barefoot shoes like Vivobarefoot or Xero


Avoid: Running shoes. They’re designed to absorb impact, which works against you when lifting.


If You’re Doing Cardio or Treadmill Running


You need cushion and flexibility.


Recommended:

  • Hoka

  • Brooks Ghost or Glycerin

  • New Balance Fresh Foam

  • Nike Pegasus

  • On Cloud


Avoid: Flat lifting shoes. They don’t provide enough shock absorption.


If You’re Doing HIIT, Bootcamps, or Functional Training


You're jumping, pushing, running, and lifting, sometimes all in the same workout. You need a shoe that can keep up with that variety and give your feet the support they need.


Look for:

  • A wide, stable base

  • Solid traction

  • Just enough cushion without being too soft


Recommended:

  • Nike Metcon

  • Reebok Nano

  • Under Armour TriBase

  • NoBull Trainers

  • STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer

  • TYR CXT-2 Trainer


Not Sure What You're Doing Yet? Do a Bit of Everything?


Go for a solid cross-trainer. These are built to handle strength work, short runs, and agility drills. They’re made for people who lift, do cardio, and everything in between.


Recommended:

  • Nike Metcon

  • Reebok Nano

  • NoBull Trainers

  • New Balance Minimus

  • STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer

  • TYR CXT-2 Trainer


What About Weightlifting Shoes?


If you squat deep, have limited ankle mobility, or do Olympic lifts, you might benefit from heeled lifting shoes.


These have:

  • A raised heel for deeper squats

  • A hard sole for max stability

  • Straps to lock your feet in


Recommended:

  • Nike Romaleos

  • Adidas Adipower

  • Reebok Legacy Lifter

  • TYR L-2 Lifter


Not necessary for everyone, but game-changing if you’re a barbell-focused lifter.


Quick Recap: Match Your Shoes to Your Training


  • Strength training: flat or barefoot shoes

  • Running or cardio: cushioned running shoes

  • HIIT or functional training: versatile cross-trainers

  • Olympic lifting: raised heel lifters


Final Tips


  • Try on the shoes if you can. Fit varies between brands and models within the same brand.

  • Don’t use running shoes for heavy lifts or HIIT workouts.


The right shoe can make a big difference in how you train and feel. You just need one that fits your goals.

 
 
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