As I explained in my recent article about men’s training shoes, using the wrong footwear will lead to less effective and possibly painful workouts.
This is especially true with specialised workouts like weightlifting or zumba for example.
So with ergonomics and safety in mind, I will recommend some excellent shoes for a variety of different types of training.
I’ll also explain what to look for in a workout shoe and how to choose the right one for you.
Best Shoe For Cross Training
Reebok Women's Nano 9 Cross Trainer Shoes
- Low arch shaft to give you more mobility when working out
- Rubber sole, made of a durable material
- Resilient support and stretch for improved flexibility
- Combines comfortable cushioning with a midsole protection wrap to give you more foot support
- Ideal for lifting, cardio, and high-intensity workouts
The Reebok Nano series is an amazing line of cross training shoes that are cushioned and comfortable yet provide the perfect amount of foot support that is needed for lifting.
They are built to connect your feet to the ground and drive more energy to your legs.
So if you’re squatting with large weights, this shoe can help you improve your physical performance and increase your repetitions.
The Nano 9 is made with 100% textile materials which make it breathable and flexible. If you don’t like black, there are several other colors to choose from.
What customers are saying
Most customers who rate this pair of shoes share a very positive experience.
They aren’t running shoes, but they are comfortable enough to run with and provide excellent foot support, even in lateral movements such as side lunges.
Some people say the sizes are larger than expected, but you can always return them and get them in a smaller size.
Best Shoe For Weightlifting
Inov-8 Women’s Fastlift 335 Weightlifting Training Shoes
- More stable, with an outsole rubber hold to keep your feet in place while lifting
- Extra secure by adjusting the Velcro strap on top of the shoelaces
- Improves stability with an external heel cage designed for lateral movements
- Low heel height, especially thought for lifting purposes
- Wide toe box where you can actually spread your toes without a problem
This is not the most popular brand on our list but it definitely has everything the average lifter needs to improve her technique.
One of the most prominent features on this shoe is how secure your feet feel when you’re lifting large weights.
The outer sole improves your grip and the external heel cage gives you more stability, even while doing lateral movements.
Before ordering this shoe, you can measure your feet and get a recommended size using the size guide provided by the manufacturer.
What customers are saying
There isn’t much variation in color, but customers are usually very satisfied with their purchase.
Some of them even had squatting problems that went away after working out with these shoes.
The shoe is also very comfortable for women with wide feet due to its wider toe box. Still, some people had to return them and get an extra size because they tend to run a bit short.
Favorite Shoe For Squats
Reebok Women's Legacylifter Cross Trainer
- Low arch shaft to give you more mobility when working out
- Made with synthetic material and mesh, with a rubber sole
- 22mm of heel height
- Perfect for all types of lifting exercises in leg day
The Reebok Legacylifter was made with cross training in mind. It is extremely versatile, stable, and secure.
This cross training shoe is manufactured with a combination of synthetic materials and mesh to make it more breathable.
It comes with two Velcro straps on top of the shoelaces which are made to increase your grip and stability in the middle of your squats.
The flat rubber sole increases floor contact and helps you drive your strength from the floor to your legs. That’s why it feels glued to the ground when you need it most.
What customers are saying
Customer ratings are very favorable, and the most common compliments are about color, fit, and stability.
Customers also say that these shoes are very good for hip thrusts and almost all of the exercises you would do on your leg day.
However, there were a few people who complained about the top edge being stiff and hurting their ankles.
Ideal Shoe For CrossFit
Reebok Women's Crossfit Nano 2.0 Training Shoe
- Low arch shaft to give you more mobility when working out
- Made with synthetic materials and breathable textile
- More stability due to its 3D Fuse Frame construction
- More durability due to its high-abrasion outsole
- Designed for fast movement, feet control, and more support in your movements
These shoes were designed with fast-paced movements in mind. In some ways, they are similar to running shoes, but with more grip and lateral support.
In short, they are made for CrossFit, functional training, and similar disciplines where you need to move really fast, and sometimes change your direction abruptly.
The Nano 2.0 training shoe is extremely durable and made to withstand all of the wear and tear it will naturally go through in these types of exercises.
However, they may not be suitable if you’re a very heavy lifter because they lack the ground support you need to lift heavier weights.
What customers are saying
Many people are extremely satisfied with these shoes, especially those that use them for running, CrossFit, cardio, sprints, and similar workouts.
The shoes are versatile and work perfectly as training shoes as well, they just aren’t made to support your body when you lift very large weights.
Best For Dance Workout
Zumba Air High Top Shoes Dance Workout Sneakers
- High shoes with improved ankle protection
- More support and impact reduction
- Features a Z-Slide technology allowing you to make pivoting movements on any surface
- Stylish and with many designs to choose from
When you’re dancing, what you wear should complement your routine instead of being an obstacle in it.
These dance workout sneakers are made especially for Zumba classes but you can use them in other group classes too.
The sneakers are designed to provide extra support and protect your feet from twisting or bad movements.
They are also incredibly comfortable and feature a pivoting technology that gives you extra grip for safer and more precise movements.
What customers are saying
According to reviews, these shoes come in true sizes, so if you’re sure about your foot size, you won’t have problems with smaller or larger shoes being delivered.
Also, don’t be fooled by their appearance. Although they may seem very big on the outside, they fit perfectly when you have them on.
The shoes aren’t made for walking but they’re comfortable enough to wear on a long walk and the only downside reported is that they feel a little heavy when you’re jumping.
Best Gym Shoe Brands
Reebok
Many people think Reebok specializes only in running shoes but that’s clearly not the case.
They have been creating the Nano line for cross training for years, plus other specialist shoes that serve different purposes
The shoes mentioned in this article are made for weightlifting and gyms, but they will also suit crossfitters and people who need more ground contact.
As expected from this brand, the shoes can be quite expensive but most customers will agree that they are truly worth it.
Nike
As one of the biggest brands in the world of fitness, Nike is very popular for sports gear, clothing, and training shoes.
They have a very wide range of products to choose from, and some of them are very appropriate for weightlifting.
Nike creates high-quality sneakers that come in a pretty wide range of prices depending on the materials and technologies they use.
Inov-8
This company is dedicated to manufacturing training shoes, and have a wide variety of options to choose from.
Their weightlifting shoes are very lightweight and flexible and feature a minimalist design that is perfect for cross training or lifting purposes.
The brand is not widely known yet, but their products are excellent and extremely durable.
So, take a look and evaluate their features for yourself.
Under Armour
For many years, we recognized Under Armour as a gym apparel brand.
However, they recently started manufacturing shoes that are just as good as their apparel.
Just like other renowned brands, Under Armour’s products are all high-quality and they usually come at a lower price.
They also have interesting technologies built into their shoes if you’re looking for something fancy and a bit more expensive.
Other Recommended Shoes
NOBULL Women's Training Shoes
These shoes are made with a SuperFabric guard plate that is versatile and durable, flexible, and lightweight.
They are manufactured with breathable materials for a multi-environment use and are meant to be extremely comfortable regardless of the weather.
The shoe is not specifically designed for lifting, but it can be used for that purpose due to its increased ground support.
What customers are saying
Most customers give these shoes a high rating, saying that they are great for HIIT and cardio. Others use them for kickboxing, CrossFit, and weightlifting without a problem.
Some people say that these shoes can feel a bit big and that the price can feel a bit high if you’re on a budget, but overall it’s a great pick.
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These adidas shoes are made with 100% synthetic materials and include a type of synthetic leather that is made to be durable and lightweight at the same time.
It is made with mesh on the tongue and collar to provide more breathability and has a Velcro strap that will provide extra grip and stability in your weightlifting exercises.
What customers are saying
Most people who bought this pair say that squats feel a lot different with the shoes on and that they definitely make a difference in physical performance.
However, the shoes aren’t for people with fallen arches because it can feel a bit narrow and uncomfortable.
Other than that, they are excellent for lifting and provide extra stability and support.
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The Nike WMNS is designed for Cross-fitters and cross-training and it is guaranteed to endure punishing routines and very high demands.
The shoe has an interesting abrasion resistance technology that improves comfort and makes it more durable.
Most of the features on this particular shoe are aimed at improving durability but it is also very flexible and provides excellent traction for those high-intensity workouts.
What customers are saying
Customers recommend this model for HIIT and CrossFit.
The only problem with these shoes is that some people have found the actual sizes to be a bit too narrow, but you can change it for another size if you encounter this issue.
PUMA Women's Tazon FM Cross-Trainer Shoe
These shoes are made with 100% synthetic leather and are still extremely breathable due to its EcoOrthoLite technology.
The shoe includes an impact absorption feature that will be very useful if you ever drop your weights or someone else steps on you by accident during a fast-paced group training.
What customers are saying
Customers love these shoes especially for the stability they offer, and their lightweight design.
They are manufactured with quality materials and are perfect for boxing, HIIT, running on a treadmill, or as a cross-trainer shoe.
The arch support is also fantastic if you’re suffering from foot pain with other models.
Under Armour Women's Breathe Trainer
This is an extra-cushioned, highly breathable model by Under Armour, with an interesting elastic lacing system that not only looks great but also provides extra support and grip to your midfoot.
It has a synthetic heel counter that provides more stability to your feet and is a very comfortable model with extra durability.
What customers are saying
These shoes also have a good rating, but many people have reported that they come in smaller sizes.
Consider ordering a slightly larger size to prevent returns and delays on your order.
Common questions
After considering all of these models and their features, do you still think all sports shoes are the same?
You will have different features in different models, depending on the type of sport or discipline you’re into. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
Should you lift in running shoes?
It’s not the ideal shoe to lift with, at least not large weights.
When you’re on the run, you will have your feet moving at all times, and your running shoes provide an extra lift to speed up your pace.
You don’t need this when you’re lifting. Instead, you need more ground control, which is provided by lifting shoes and not running shoes.
What is a weightlifting shoe?
It is a type of sneaker or sports shoe specially designed for heavy lifting.
It can assist weightlifters in keeping a good posture throughout the exercise and improve their form and technique, especially if they are lifting very heavy.
They are also made with durable materials to withstand the extra pressure and provide more stability.
What are the advantages of a training shoe?
Each model of training shoes can give you an edge in a particular type of sport or sporting discipline.
Some of them give you more ground support, like weightlifting shoes. Others can increase your mobility and speed, like running shoes.
There are also models that feature anti-slip and strong grip materials if you’re performing very fast movements.
Are weightlifting shoes good for CrossFit?
You can use weightlifting shoes for CrossFit, but if you want extra comfort buy a pair of Crossfit shoes.
CrossFit shoes will feel more stable and have less cushioning to increase your contact with the ground.
Some weightlifting shoes have a raised heel, which is not a good idea in CrossFit, so be mindful about it and consider a more fitting model.
Can you deadlift without shoes?
Yes, it is actually ideal to have minimal footwear on when you’re deadlifting because you will be closer to the ground and you won’t be shifting the weight to your toes.
This allows for proper activation of the hamstrings and glutes throughout the exercise.
Shoe Features To Consider
There are many options and models to consider. And, instead of looking for a fancy and colorful model, be sure to look for features that will really contribute to your training.
Types of weightlifting shoes
You will find cushioned and non-cushioned weightlifting shoes.
You may think that cushioning is always best, but excessive cushioning can sometimes compromise your technique.
So, if you’re planning to lift heavier weights, pick other types of weightlifting shoes (less cushioning). What you really need is ground contact.
All weightlifting shoes need a flat surface with full contact to the floor, unlike cardio and running shoes.
Raised heels
Heel raise is a feature you will sometimes find in these types of shoes, and it is very useful if you’re planning to lift massive weights.
The most appropriate heel elevation for lifting is 1’’ to 3’’ this will help you anchor both feet to the ground and boost your leg power.
Stability
This is another essential feature when you’re lifting.
Holding your position is fundamental to maintaining a proper technique and your shoes are responsible for stability and ankle support.
Stability and ankle support is extremely important, especially if you’re lifting heavy weights during leg day.
