Cross-training shoes cover all the bases fitness lovers need for HIIT classes, circuit training, CrossFit, and more. The term cross-training has been used to describe a variety of training modalities from high to low intensity, but at its core, cross-training is all about pairing workouts that support each other.
Best Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT, CrossFit, and Beyond
Shoes with support for any workout
Reviews by Merriam-Webster is supported by its audience. Products and services featured are independently selected by our editorial team. We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.
Although in the early 2000s CrossFit made many people think that cross-training had to be high-intensity, that’s definitely not the case. There are types of cross-training to suit everyone, regardless of their fitness level, and a study published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science showed that runners who completed cross-training workouts twice a week improved their performance. If you’re interested in adding cross-training to your fitness regime, you want to invest in a pair of cross-training shoes, AKA cross-trainers. Cross-training shoes combine many of the benefits of specialized running, lifting, and training shoes, and there is a wide variety to choose from.
5 Things To Know Before Buying Cross-training Shoes:
- Durability: Cross-training shoes take a beating, so pick a pair suited to your workout intensity level and make sure they are built to last.
- Training Type: Cross-training is a very broad term, but there are shoes that cater to nearly every cross-training niche. Some more versatile cross-trainers are suitable for more than one type of workout.
- Heel Height: Heel height can make a difference in your training, especially if you’re focusing on weightlifting. Different heel heights support specific types of workouts, so make sure a shoe’s heel height supports your training style.
- Body: Your body and foot shape, size, and width will help determine which cross-trainers are best for you. Consider what brands have fit your feet well in the past when picking out cross-trainers.
- Price: Cross-training shoes are available in a range of prices, but good shoes can be found at many different price points. Know your budget and work with it.
We evaluated the top cross-trainers, reviewed the prices, and factored in what customers are saying to determine the overall best cross-training shoes. Our top pick is Under Armour’s TriBase Reign 3 Training Shoes, but we’ve also identified the best cross-trainers for weight lifting, the best for CrossFit, and more.
If you find this helpful, you might also want to check out the Best Running Shoes, Best Walking Shoes, and Best Knee Braces.
Our Top Picks
See All Top Picks See All
Best Overall Cross-Training Shoes
Under Armour TriBase Reign 3 Training Shoes
Manufacturer :
Under ArmourWhere to Buy
Pros
- Extremely flexible
- Responsive cushioning
- Full rubber outsole has great grip
- Keeps feet locked in place while weight lifting
Cons
- Can feel a bit narrow
- On the expensive side
Product Snapshot
Under Armour TriBase™ Reign 3 Training Shoes are the best all-around workout shoes for weight lifting, HIIT, rope climbing, walking, CrossFit, and everything in between. The rubber sole and responsive cushioning allow you to grip the floor and feel supported during your workouts, while the low heel-toe drop keeps you close to the ground and locked in for exercises such as weight lifting. The shoe’s triangular base lets your feet move freely in all directions, and is flexible enough to help you perform any movement. The Under Armour TriBase™ Reign 3 Training Shoes are also extremely durable.
Although these cross-trainers are expensive, they go on sale often, so keep an eye on the price. The mesh upper and knit bootie allow for some stretch, but some users have reported that the toe box can feel a bit narrow.
Specs
- Sizes
- 5-14 (W)
7-15 (M) - Heel-Toe Drop
- 2 mm
- Weight
- 9 oz (W)
10.84 oz (M) - Workout Type
- HIIT, CrossFit, Weight lifting, Rope climbing, Box jumping, and more
Where to Buy
Pros
- Firm heel and flexible forefoot
- Secured tongue keeps shoe stable
- Mesh upper allows for maximum breathability
- Durable, ridged outsole grips the floor and ropes
Cons
- Laces can be prone to untying
- Require a bit of a breaking-in period
Product Snapshot
Weight lifting can be hard on the body, so it’s important to have shoes that support you and keep you firmly on the ground. The Nike Metcon 7 X is the best shoe for weight lifting, although it’s versatile enough for CrossFit, rope climbing, circuit training, and other workouts. The Metcon 7’s firm heel and flexible forefoot support you during every movement. Its durability is excellent, too, with a rigid outsole strong enough to grip the floor or a climbing rope. The shoe’s mesh upper allows your foot to breathe and stay cool even during intense sessions. It also makes the shoe better for wider feet than other Nikes. Finally, while it may not seem like a big deal, the secured tongue on the Metcon 7s contributes to the shoe’s stability. You never have to adjust the tongue, and it helps to keep the shoe in place during heavy lifting sessions.
Some users note that these trainers require a breaking-in period and that the slippery laces are prone to coming untied, but the Nike Metcon 7 X is still the best shoe for cross-training with a weight-lifting component.
Specs
- Sizes
- 5-16.5 (W)
3.5-15 (M) - Heel-Toe Drop
- 4 mm
- Weight
- 10 oz/12 oz (M)
- Workout Type
- Rope climbing, circuit training, heavy weight lifting
Pros
- Supportive, stable base
- Versatile; can be used for running
- Lightweight, responsive cushioning
- Shoe shape helps you keep proper form
Cons
- Sizes run a little big
- Require a breaking-in period
Product Snapshot
The Reebok Nano X1 is a lightweight, premium cross-training shoe designed for all types of workouts, but it’s particularly good for CrossFit. CrossFit is a strength and conditioning workout that is made up of functional movements performed at a high intensity. Reebok Nano X1s have responsive cushioning that supports CrossFit-style cardio bursts, while their base is supportive and stable enough for weight training and heavy lifting. This shoe’s design details, such as the strategically placed grooves on the rubber outsole, take them to the next level. These improve grip both when your feet are planted and when you’re changing directions quickly. Their soft, flexible upper also keeps your feet cool and comfortable.
The Reebok Nano X1’s run a little big, so it’s best to try them on before purchasing. Some users also noted that they can cause blisters during the breaking-in period.
Specs
- Sizes
- 5-12 (W)
6-14 (M) - Heel-Toe Drop
- 7 mm
- Weight
- 9.7 oz (W)
12 oz (M) - Workout Type
- CrossFit, running, weight lifting
Pros
- Stable platform
- Responsive cushioning
- Mesh upper and suede tongue
Cons
- Expensive
- Better for bursts than for weight lifting
Product Snapshot
Saucony Freedom 4s are the perfect cross-trainer to go straight from a run to a HIIT class. Their responsive cushioning gives them great springiness for sprints and box jumps, while their stable platform helps keep you steady during lateral movements and agility drills. These are also some of the most comfortable shoes you will find. The mesh upper and suede tongue keep your feet cool and comfy during both indoor and outdoor workouts. A touch of reflectivity at the heel improves their visibility in low light, which helps keep you safe on outdoor runs.
Although Saucony Freedom 4s are on the expensive side for cross-trainers, you can wear them for a wide variety of workouts.
Specs
- Sizes
- 5-12 (W)
7-15 (M) - Heel-Toe Drop
- 4 mm
- Weight
- 6.5 oz (W)
7.5 oz (M) - Workout Type
- HIIT, running, cross-training
Most Popular Cross-Trainers
On Cloud X Training Shoe
Pros
- Lace-up style for stability
- Removable cushioned insole to allow for custom orthotics
Cons
- Expensive
Product Snapshot
These shoes are not only adorable, but they really performed. They’re incredibly lightweight and the mesh is incredibly breathable, so no stinky feet over here. We loved how they increased our stability and agility for both running and weight training. Truly, they are like walking on clouds.
Specs
- Sizes
- 5-11
- Heel-Toe Drop
- 6 mm
- Weight
- 8.47 oz
- Workout Type
- Running, HIIT, Mixed sports sessions, Gym sessions, Workout classes
Compare
Best Overall Cross-Training Shoes
Best Cross-Training Shoes for Weight Lifting
Best Cross-Training Shoes for CrossFit
Best Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT
Most Popular Cross-Trainers
Pros
Pros
Pros
Pros
Pros
Pros
- Extremely flexible
- Responsive cushioning
- Full rubber outsole has great grip
- Keeps feet locked in place while weight lifting
- Firm heel and flexible forefoot
- Secured tongue keeps shoe stable
- Mesh upper allows for maximum breathability
- Durable, ridged outsole grips the floor and ropes
- Supportive, stable base
- Versatile; can be used for running
- Lightweight, responsive cushioning
- Shoe shape helps you keep proper form
- Stable platform
- Responsive cushioning
- Mesh upper and suede tongue
- Lace-up style for stability
- Removable cushioned insole to allow for custom orthotics
Cons
Cons
Cons
Cons
Cons
Cons
- Can feel a bit narrow
- On the expensive side
- Laces can be prone to untying
- Require a bit of a breaking-in period
- Sizes run a little big
- Require a breaking-in period
- Expensive
- Better for bursts than for weight lifting
- Expensive
Sizes
Sizes
Sizes
Sizes
Sizes
Sizes
5-14 (W)
7-15 (M)
7-15 (M)
5-16.5 (W)
3.5-15 (M)
3.5-15 (M)
5-12 (W)
6-14 (M)
6-14 (M)
5-12 (W)
7-15 (M)
7-15 (M)
5-11
Heel-Toe Drop
Heel-Toe Drop
Heel-Toe Drop
Heel-Toe Drop
Heel-Toe Drop
Heel-Toe Drop
2 mm
4 mm
7 mm
4 mm
6 mm
Weight
Weight
Weight
Weight
Weight
Weight
9 oz (W)
10.84 oz (M)
10.84 oz (M)
10 oz/12 oz (M)
9.7 oz (W)
12 oz (M)
12 oz (M)
6.5 oz (W)
7.5 oz (M)
7.5 oz (M)
8.47 oz
Workout Type
Workout Type
Workout Type
Workout Type
Workout Type
Workout Type
HIIT, CrossFit, Weight lifting, Rope climbing, Box jumping, and more
Rope climbing, circuit training, heavy weight lifting
CrossFit, running, weight lifting
HIIT, running, cross-training
Running, HIIT, Mixed sports sessions, Gym sessions, Workout classes
FAQs
Should I wear cross-training shoes every day?
Many cross-training shoes’ special features make them unsuited to everyday use. They will wear out quicker if you’re wearing them all the time, and cross-trainers can be a bit expensive for casual wear.
Can I run in my cross-trainers?
It depends on the shoe. Running shoes should support your foot and bend as your heel hits the ground. That’s why they are often more cushioned on the back end to propel your forward. Some cross-trainers support both running and cross-training workouts, but others are built specifically for cross-training and weight lifting. These won’t have the support or cushioning needed for running.
Is cross-training better than running?
No one workout is best for all people. Mixing and matching your workouts is recommended, particularly combining cardio activities such as running with cross-training. Cross-training should supplement running, not replace it.