2024's Top Gym Shoes for Every Workout: Hoka, Nike, New Balance & More

Selecting the perfect gym shoe can be quite a challenge as it largely hinges on your workout routine.

If you gravitate towards free weights and your idea of cross-training involves alternating between upper and lower body exercises, your ideal shoe will differ from someone who predominantly focuses on treadmill workouts.

Whether you prioritize strength training, cardio, or a mix of both, opt for a shoe that strikes the right balance of stability, support, and flexibility to complement your movement patterns.

Best gym shoes in 2024

From a versatile Hoka to a Nike that can withstand deadlifts, each gym shoe on our list is meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of every gym enthusiast out there.

Best gym shoe overall (Hoka Clifton 9)

When you need a versatile shoe that can go from treadmill to leg press to your Zumba class, the Hoka Clifton 9 is one of your best choices.

Featuring a more neutral footbed and enough cushion to keep you comfortable, the newest model in the Clifton lineup is ideal for a well-rounded gym workout that includes both cardio and strength training exercises.

The Hoka Clifton 9 also boasts the signature Hoka cushioning but with a lighter, more responsive midsole so you get a bit more lift from every step during cardio or dynamic exercise.

When you're weightlifting or doing lower body exercises, the extended heel crash pad provides added shock absorption and a more stable base for your heel without added weight.

Meanwhile, flex grooves on the outsole and a wider toe box give your foot the flexibility and room to move naturally for a more stable stance.

If the toe box on the regular still doesn't feel wide enough for you, the Clifton 9 also comes in wide sizes.

Overall, it's not as bulky as some of the brand's other designs but still gives you the support and comfort you're looking for in a Hoka.

The luxurious yet well-balanced shoe is priced at $145 per pair on Hoka.

The previous model, the beloved Hoka Clifton 8, is currently discounted.

For those seeking a similar style and comfort to the Clifton 9 but at a more affordable cost, the Clifton 8 is available starting at just $112 in both women's and men's sizes.

Top features of the Hoka Clifton 9:

• A 5-millimeter heel to toe drop provides cushy support for dynamic movements and cardio, but is still low enough for weightlifting on your cross training days.
• The traction on the outsole is great for HIIT sessions with lots of dynamic movements like lunges, squat jumps and burpees.
• The wider toe box gives room for your toes to spread during weightlifting or squatting.
• A plush heel minimizes friction on your ankle.

Best gym shoe for cross training (Nike Metcon 9)

Nike might be known for its running shoes, but the brand also makes a great selection of gym trainers.

The Nike Metcon 9, in particular, is one of the most popular gym shoes on the market.

Built for deadlifts and other high intensity weightlifting, the shoes feature a wide Hyperlift plate in the heel to provide stability and support under heavy loads.

Meanwhile, the toebox is designed with a stretchy, breathable fabric that molds to your toes while still providing enough stretch to let your toes spread out while doing squats or deadlifts.

That way, you get the secure fit you need to train safely without restricting your feet when you need that extra movement.

This makes it a great choice for someone who does a lot of HIIT workouts that combine a mix of dynamic exercises and strength training.

Top features of the Nike Metcon 9:

• The breathable and flexible chain-link mesh stretches just enough to let your foot and ankle move naturally.
• The rubber sidewalls and support braces in the heel and midfoot keep you stable while you're lifting.
• The rubber tread on the outsole offers traction for stability during dynamic exercises like lunges or mountain climbers.
• A 4-millimeter heel to toe drop is low enough to feel stable without completely losing the support of a standard training shoe.

Best zero drop gym shoe for weightlifting (New Balance Minimus TR)

For weightlifting and other exercises where your feet stay firmly planted, consider opting for zero-drop or flat sole shoes like the New Balance Minimus TR.

Unlike many running shoes with a higher heel-to-toe drop, which can affect your form and stability by shifting your weight towards the front of your foot, these shoes can be a game changer.

Just as you wouldn't attempt a deadlift on your tiptoes, the concept behind zero-drop shoes is to help maintain your weight over your heels for better balance and form.

The New Balance Minimum TR BOA gives you that zero drop stability along with a firmer foam that provides cushion but doesn't compress so much that it impacts your form.

It's also a lightweight and flexible shoe, with a breathable upper that fits more like a glove than a shoe.

That means you could use these for runs or other cardio, though it might take some getting used to run in zero drop shoes if you've never done it before.

Top features of the New Balance Minimus TR:

• The zero-millimeter heel to drop is the best choice for achieving a solid, stable form while lifting.
• The flexible, breathable upper provides a snug yet stretchy fit -- more like a glove than a shoe.
• The lightweight, minimalist shoe gives you a barefoot feel that's great for people who find other gym shoes too stiff or constricting.

Best gym shoe for cardio (Brooks Ghost 15)

If you spend your entire gym session in the cardio section, your top priorities should be shock absorption and support.

You need a shoe that lets you push yourself to your limit while minimizing the risk of injury or strain.

One of our top picks for that is the Brooks Ghost 15.

Designed for a soft, smooth ride, the Brooks Ghost 15 is built to keep your foot comfortable on long runs.

That means maximum shock absorption, support only where you need it and a lightweight design that won't feel heavy on your foot even after logging multiple miles.

Cardio workouts can be hard on your joints and your feet.

But the balanced design of this running shoe cushions each step for a soft landing whether you're sprinting on a treadmill or sweating it out on a stair stepper.

Top features of the Brooks Ghost 15:

• With a 12 mm heel drop, this running shoe offers good arch support while still being a relatively neutral running shoe.
• The GlideRoll rocker helps your foot move naturally through your stride to propel each step.
• Plush cushioning provides next-level shock absorption while walking or running.

Source: cbssports