Looking for the best gym shoes and training shoes to take your workouts up to the next notch? You’ve come to the right place.
Training shoes and gym shoes for men are specifically designed to help you avoid injury when completing big lifts, and to give you a natural feeling and solid footing so that you still engage as many muscles as possible.
Many people rock up to their sessions a little underprepared, normally with a pair of running shoes that aren’t up to the task ahead. Running shoes tend to have highly cushioned soles and bend and flex easily, qualities you really don’t want when you’re trying to squat or deadlift heavy loads.
What we’re looking for
The main difference between training shoes and running shoes is that training shoes are designed for multi-directional movement, whereas running shoes are designed for forward-moving heel-to-toe movement, and will have a higher heel drop to facilitate the extra shock absorption required.
- Purpose – are they specifically made for training and weight lifting?
- Versatility – can you use them for HIIT classes?
- Quality – what are other people saying about them?
- Price – are they within a reasonable budget?
- Brand – is the brand known for making training/gym shoes?
If you lift weights then you’re going to need a pair of training shoes as opposed to a pair of joggers. Training shoes will have a lower heel drop (the distance between your heel and the ground) to give you a more stable base and to better mimic going barefoot.
Why trust us?
To help put this guide together we purchased and tested a number of these shoes. Specifically we’ve been using the Nike Metcon 7 for a number of months. We scooped them in an all green colour which is fresh as hell. We train at our local gym with these and the local F45 studio.
- Every DMARGE employee is a regular at their local gym
- We have over 50 experts who contribute to our content, specifically personal trainers and gym owners.
- We’ve used these products and can vouch for their quality.
Metcon 9
Best overall gym shoe
TESTED BY DMARGE!
The Nike Metcon 9 is the latest iteration of Nike’s high-performance men’s workout shoe. Claiming to be the golden standard for weight training shoes, Nike’s Metcon 9 is the most breathable version yet, meaning your feet – and ultimately, your whole body – will stay cool. Plus, with a solid and stable base, including a wider heel, these shoes will help you to lift heavier weights. The Metcon 9’s are pretty good-looking too, as expected, and can happily be worn outside the gym.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
This has been our go-top shoe for F45 classes and gym workouts for nearly 12 months. We like the stiff soul and flat profile of the shoe which ensures stable footing when lifting. It’s been especially good in the squat track. The shoes offer a very handy lace saver to ensure you laces stay tied up when you’re working out. The Metcon 7 is low profile and allow for squats, lunges etc without worrying about your knees.
The only thing we’re not fans of is the wrap-around sole. Whilst it looks functional we’re yet to see a reason why we should need it. It almost ruins the aesthetic of the shoes.
Athletic Propulsion Labs TechLoom Tracer
For the luxury gym shoe wearer
The wonderfully named Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) covers that niche territory between luxury and performance. The Los Angeles brand was founded in 2009 by the Goldston twins, two siblings who don’t hold back when it comes to style and innovation.
Their TechLoom Tracer training shoes are engineered to be as comfortable as possible thanks to a moulded collar around the ankle and heel to provide optimum support. Available in a huge range of colours and styles, and with the combination of a TechLoom forefoot and a Propelium midsole to give you stability and cushioning in all the right places, APL’s Techloom Tracer is a worthy candidate for your next pair of training shoes.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THIS SHOE
It’s not Nike, instead, APL are an emerging brand intent on making high-quality trainers. The sock design means it’s a simpler shoe with a touch less support, but that means it’s lighter and more responsive for HIIT classes. For a while APL had teamed up with F45 in Australia and a number of trainers were using these shoes.
One downside to the Techloom is the price. They’re really really f*cking expensive. But with 300 5-star reviews, maybe it’s for good reason.
Project Rock 6
For those who want to push themselves to their limits
The UA Project Rock 6 training shoes have been made in collaboration with The Rock himself, so you know they’re going to be able to withstand the toughest of workouts. You get plenty of support throughout the midfoot and heel, Under Armour’s HOVR cushioning technology and a knitted upper for sock-like comfort. We’ve tried this pair out for ourselves, and can comfortably say they’re some of the best training shoes we’ve ever owned.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
If you are looking for some cushion for the pushin’ then Project 6 is the shoe for you. The TPU heel clips add stability whilst the webbing not only looks good but does keep your foot nicely snug. The Tribase ensures my foot is planted solid for every type of lift so it works for HIIT and workouts. Removable inner soles mean you can put your orthodics in there too.
It’s also priced very reasonably and it’s in its 6th edition.
Legacy Lifter III
For Weightlifters
Achieving your weight room goals requires stability above all else, and these men’s Reebok training shoes are designed to deliver just that. Featuring innovative inflatable pump technology, these shoes empower you to fine-tune your fit, ensuring a perfect feel for squats and easy adjustments for deadlifts. Plus, with a midfoot strap that offers a secure, locked-in sensation, you can focus on your lifts without worrying about stability. The raised heel, equipped with a durable TPU clip, provides the extra support you need to reach your optimum performance.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
So many gym shoes out there try to be all-rounders — which is fine, if that’s what you’re looking for — but many neglect the needs of the heavy lifter. If you want to take care of your knees, then having raised heels and maximum stability is a must. You can trust us on this — our resident fitness expert has osteoarthritis in both knees and swears by these shoes; he’s been able to keep lifting heavy and training hard thanks to their carefully considered design.
Puma FUSE 2
For those seeking total athletic performance
Puma’s FUSE 2 workout shoes feature a wide toe box to give you a stable stance while the internal midsole provides shock absorption. Durable PUMAGRIP provides all-purpose traction and a TPU heel clip offers a boost of support. Available in three awesome colours, Puma’s FUSE are guaranteed to kick your training up a gear.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
The minimal heel-to-toe rise is what sets this shoe apart from the competition. The shoe really works well for CrossFit training which we’ve also seen in a number of online comments. We like the range of colours (Black-Cayenne-Wood Violet) Puma has produced with this line of shoes too.
The only downside is the shoe does fit a little narrow, so be warned for those with wide feet.
New Balance 624 v5
The perfect all-rounder
New Balance has a great range of training shoes that will be perfect for your gym workouts. Their durable trainers, such as the 624v5, are designed for impact and superior traction, so you can stay quick on your feet. Featuring a wide range of technologies for ultimate support and comfort, New Balance’s workout shoes are available in different colours, meaning you can hit your new personal best in style.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
New Balance has become one of the coolest brands on the block in recent years, so to be able to wear it to the gym is a massive style win. The all-black is effortlessly cool and goes with any gym gear in your wardrobe, and the leather look gives it a premium feel at an affordable price. The sole ios cushioned enough for running but not so cushioned that you can’t use it for pumping weights too, so it really is a great all-rounder whatever your training split.
F-LITE G 300
The best workout shoes from an underdog brand
The F-Lite G 300 is the ultimate training shoe. It’s perfect for weightlifting and cardio workouts, offering both support and flexibility. Meta-Flex technology ensures foot movement while providing stability. The Rope-Tec system enhances durability and traction for rope climbs, and Graphene-infused Powerheel tech ensures stability during heavy lifts. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or starting out, this shoe improves gym performance.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
The newly updated designs on the G300 are absolutely great; you’ll be sure to make a statement in the gym, especially since Inov8 is relatively unknown compared to the other brands on this list. On top of that, it really performs well on a number of different workouts from running to weightlifting or even gentle trail walking. If you’re a climber or rope-fiend, these are a no-brainer; no other brand on this list tailors to those activities in this way.
Henry Runner Mesh
For the absolute best fit
It may not be as big as some of its native brothers and sisters in the US sports sector, but York Athletics have had a big, positive impact on the sports footwear market. Now, their iconic Henry shoe is back with a lightweight mesh design update. Their two-piece upper with TPU welded split seam ensures a custom fit, the breathable microfiber tongue reduces discomfort, and the slip-resistant laces keep them secure all while the rubber outsole offers excellent grip.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
The custom PU Foam sockliner provides maximum comfort, support, and moisture-wicking, making them great for running and HIIT training alike. The mesh update has also transformed what was a high-performance but slightly frumpy-looking shoe into a sneaker for the modern age that will turn heads in the best possible way.
These are a challenger brand that we can really get behind, and their close links with a number of high-profile NBA players are testament to the brand’s big future.
TC-02
For outright comfort
Japanese brand Mizuno has truly stood the test of time since starting out as a small sportswear store in Osaka in 1907. Now, the TC-02 is back and marks a significant update from its predecessor: not only is the design lighter in weight a a lot better looking, but also comes in at a significantly lower price point — gotta love it. The dual-layered mesh and a bootie construction provide a precise fit, while COB technology helps to sharpen your foot sensitivity and proprioception — your awareness of your body in space — to maximise your lower-body performance.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
The new update looks fantastic and is basically unbeatable at this price point, especially in terms of comfort where it trumps every other shoe on this list by some distance. This is also the closest you’ll get to a “barefoot” experience, so it’s great if you’re more into calisthenics, mobility training, or simply wanting to feel the ground beneath your feet.
Trainer+
The ultimate in versatility
These No Bull shoes are built to last with a robust one-piece ‘SuperFabric’ upper that resists abrasion. Plus, you can enjoy comfort and support with optimal cushioning, stable design, and a spacious toe box. Additional features include a water-repellent coating, padded heel and tongue, carbon rubber outsole, herringbone traction, durable lace system, perforated tongue, anatomical insole, and reflective branding. Safe to say, you can elevate your training with these versatile and enduring shoes.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS SHOE
Not only do these shoes look very cool indeed — the gum look on the soles is a standout, as is the texture on both upper and lower segments — but these shoes were designed for CrossFit, meaning that they’re the ultimate in versatility when it comes to working out however you like, wherever you like. Plus, they’re even handsome enough to wear out to lunch afterwards. Honestly, we love these.
