When it comes to reaching peak performance at the gym, nothing is as crucial as investing in the best gym trainers. They are more than just simply footwear, they are your trusty sidekicks, providing support, stability and comfort during those intense squats, endurance challenges or even simply walking in trainers on a treadmill.
The best gym trainers, at a glance 2024:
• Best overall running trainers: Nike Pegasus 40 - View on Nike
• Best running trainers for energy return: Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 Shoes - View on Adidas
• Best tried-and-tested running trainers: Hoka Mach 6 - View on Hoka
Why is having the best gym trainers so important?
Investing in the best gym trainers is of paramount importance for anyone who is committed to their fitness journey. The right gym trainers provide essential support and stability and reduce the risk of injury during intense workouts and road running. To prevent this, they offer shock absorption, making high-impact activities more comfortable and less taxing on your joints.
Additionally, well-designed trainers may even help to increase your performance and allow you to push your limits and maximise your potential. With the right pair of trainers, you'll begin to feel more confident, secure and motivated, which ultimately leads to a better all-round gym experience.
With so many options inundating the market, each claiming to be a pair of the best gym trainers, how do you navigate this athletic footwear jungle? Our experts have done the heavy work and have searched through the realm of gym trainers, unveiling the cream of the crop, and helping you make an informed decision to optimise your fitness potential.
The best gym trainers to buy right now
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Running trainers
Running shoes tend to be engineered to provide the utmost comfort and support during your runs. One of the key features to look out for when choosing running trainers is their cushioning system, which helps absorb impact forces generated by each stride, reducing the risk of injuries and preventing any discomfort. Also a key feature in the design of running trainers is the breathable material, to keep your feet cool and dry. Partnered with their lightweight construction, most running trainers aid in promoting a more efficient running gait.
Best overall running trainers
Nikewww.nike.com
Nike is synonymous with quality athletic footwear, and the Pegasus 40 are no exception. Building on the success of its predecessors, this 40 model excels in delivering a winning combination of comfort, responsiveness and versatility. It features a Zoom Air unit in the heel and forefoot, delivering exceptional cushioning and a responsive ride, making it an ideal choice for both long and short sprints on a treadmill, and long-distance runs. The Pegasus 40's upper is created with a breathable mesh material, ensuring substantial ventilation to keep your feet cool during gym workouts.
With a sleek and stylish design, its trainers not only perform exceptionally but also look great whether you're hitting the treadmill or running errands. The Nike Pegasus 40 continues to be the top choice for runners seeking a reliable and all-round running shoe that delivers on both performance and style.
Pros
- Zoom Air units in the shoe make for an energetic ride
- Heel area improves landing space and durability
- Backed by Olympic gold medallist Athing Mu, who took the Pegasus trainers to the Olympic games
Cons
- Some individuals found they were hard to clean
Best running trainers for energy return
Adidaswww.adidas.co.uk
This cool running shoe will help you to hit all your fitness goals. What makes these shoes so ground-breaking is their BOOST midsole technology, which provides an exceptional level of cushioning and energy return. The combination of BOOST cushioning and the PRIMEKNIT upper not only delivers incredible comfort but also adapts to the shape of your feet, ensuring a snug, sock-like fit. With its Continental rubber outsole, these trainers offer great traction on a variety of different surfaces, making their versatile for both running and casual wear.
Pros
- Created with Parley Ocean Plastic for the most sustainably-minded fitness enthusiasts
- Great choice of colours available
- PRIMEKNIT textile upper to enhance comfort and movement
Cons
- Runs small so you may need to size up with this trainer
3.
Hoka Mach 6
Best tried-and-tested running trainers
www.hoka.com
The Hoka Mach 6 trainers feature a new super critical foam that adds a springier feel, that provides a subtle push forward during runs. Despite being slightly more solid than other iterations (the Mach 5), the Mach 6 has a lightweight design, at 189g, to make sure your shoes have effortless speed and adaptability to various running styles. The Mach 6's enticing features encourages runners to explore their limits (albeit preferably in dry weather to avoid slipping). Like the sound of these Hoka trainers? Read our full review here.
Pros
- Features a low-profile cushion bed that keeps your foot closer to the ground
- Super critical foam midsole has been updated for enhanced durability
- Zonal breathability to keep your feet cool
Cons
- Best for 5k running to half marathons
Best running trainers for women
www.fitflop.com
Recognising the needs of female runners, often characterised by narrower feet, higher arches, and unique stride patterns, the FitFlop FFRUNNER trainers cater to these requirements. Engineered with an anatomically contoured footbed, a responsive Neodynamic midsole, and exceptional ventilation, these sneakers excel in both comfort and functionality, ensuring a smooth and supportive running experience. Their thoughtful design and features aimed at enhancing the running journey for women establish them as a great choice in an evolving market seeking gender-specific athletic footwear solutions.
Pros
- Features springy Neodynamic midsole to naturally encourage your foot forward
- Toe spring and heel kick create fluid movement from heel to toe
- Anatomically contoured footbed provides arch support and diffuses pressure
Cons
- Not the easiest to put on and take off
Barefoot trainers
A barefoot shoe has been created to mimic the sensation of walking or running barefoot while still providing some degree of protection and support. These shoes are notably characterised by their unique and no-frills design and typically feature a thin sole with a low heel-to-toe drop. The premise behind barefoot trainers is to encourage a more natural way of moving, allowing the feet to act as they would when barefoot.
Fans of barefoot shoes state that they can help strengthen the foot muscles, improve balance and promote a more natural gait as they allow the feet to relax and flex without restraint. But, barefoot shoes may not be for everyone as they provide less cushioning and support compared to your traditional gym trainers.
Best overall barefoot trainers
AmazonThe VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Lite III is a standout in the world of barefoot trainers and are designed to be incredibly lightweight and flexible. The Primus Lite have a zero-drop sole design, meaning its trainers promote a flat and stable platform, allowing for better ground feel and proprioception. What makes its trainers such a popular choice is the ultra-thin sole, which gives better sensory feedback than your traditional gym trainers. We'd recommend this shoe to individuals looking to strengthen their foot muscles and improve their biomechanics.
Pros
- Ortholite Performance Insole made of 98% recycled PU foam to help reduce waste
- Pro 5 Puncture Resistant finish for protection while running on rough terrain
- Extremely lightweight (232g in a men's UK size 8) to reduce foot fatigue
Cons
- Transitioning to barefoot trainers should be done gradually, as the barefoot feel may not be for everyone
Weightlifting trainers
Weightlifting shoes can optimise performance and assist with support during heavy lifts. A standout feature of this type of trainer is the raised heel, which is often made from hard, non-compressible material, which allows for an improved range of motion. This heel elevation helps individuals achieve better squat depths and maintain an upright torso position mid-lift. Also, specialised weightlifting trainers offer a much-needed stable and secure base, due to their wide outsoles and reinforced upper materials. This minimises the risk of ankle instability and ensures a solid grip on the floor. For anyone serious about weightlifting in the gym, this type of trainer is a must.
Best overall weightlifting trainers
Adidaswww.adidas.co.uk
If your gym workouts tend to involve a lot of weightlifting, the Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3's are going to be your best friend. Its trainers are made to provide maximum stability and grounding during those heart-racing lifts. Featuring a raised heel and a high-density midsole, they ensure your stable footing even under the heaviest weights. The canvas upper, crafted to withstand use after use, is engineered with 50 per cent recycled materials for sustainably-minded athletes.
Pros
- Hook-and-loop instep strap for a secure fit
- Locked-down feel for safety
- Made out of 50 per cent recycled material
Cons
- If your gym workouts include other exercises, the high heel-to-toe drop makes them unsuitable for cardio or mat work
Best weightlifting trainers for comfort
AmazonNordic Lifting's Weightlifting Shoes have been created to provide the ideal blend of stability needed for those weightlifting gym sessions. Its hard, elevated heel of 35mm allows lifters to maintain proper posture, improve squat depth, and generate maximum force during exercises like squats and deadlifts. With its affordable price point and emphasis on qualities for weightlifting, Nordic Lifting's shoes are a popular choice for athletes looking to enhance their lifting performance without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Features a stable yet flexible anti-slip sole that allows for movement
- Well-rounded design so the trainers can be used during cardio too
- Velcro strap and reinforced stitching so the shoes still look as good as new, wear after wear
Cons
- Restrictive sizing as they only stock UK 7-12
CrossFit trainers
CrossFit is a type of workout characterised by its intensity and focus on movements you would make in everyday life, like squatting, lifting, pushing and carrying. To help withstand the rigours of CrossFit, the specialised shoes provide excellent stability, durability and versatility for any type of exercise their Workout of the Day (WOD) might throw at them. The best CrossFit trainers also incorporate features like ample cushioning and flexibility to accommodate high-intensity activities such as rope climbs and box jumps. These trainers are a key tool in enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injury for CrossFitters dedicated to this intense and dynamic workout.
Best overall CrossFit trainers
AmazonOpt for the Salomon Alphacross trainers for your WODs and experience unparalleled performance. Engineered with multidirectional lugs on the outsole and ContraGrip rubber, these shoes provide exceptional traction across various terrains, from sleek tarmac to rugged trails. Moreover, the inclusion of a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane ensures protection against the elements while maintaining the shoes' pristine appearance. The hassle-free lacing system facilitates easy on and off, guaranteeing a secure fit, while the protective toe cap shields against potential obstacles encountered during your CrossFit session.
Pros
- Features cushioned Fuze Surge foam in the midsole
- Enhanced grounding due to ContraGrip rubber
- Lightweight - 304g
Cons
- Designed primarily for outdoor use, so may not work as well during indoor CrossFit sessions
Best minimalist CrossFit trainers
NOBULLuk.nobullproject.com
If you're looking for a no-nonsense pair of trainers for CrossFit, the NOBULL Trainer+ should be your top pick. It features a seamless, one-piece construction with a durable, abrasion-resistant SuperFabric upper that should protect against the intense exercises like rope climbs and burpees. The shoe's low stack and flexible sole offers great grip and traction, as well as natural balance. With its sleek design and uncompromising functionality, the NOBULL CrossFit Trainer+ has become a favourite for individuals wanting nothing but the best from their footwear.
Pros
- Treated with a water-repellent coating so your trainers look brand new
- Added reflective branding to enhance visibility at night
- Circular tread shape for quick movements and multi-direction grip
Cons
- The minimalist design may not be to everyone's taste
HIIT Trainers
HIIT, short for High-Intensity Interval Training shoes are designed to meet the demands of fast-paced workouts. HIIT is a form of cardiovascular exercise that involves short bursts of intense physical activity followed by brief periods of rest or lower-intensity recovery. Designed to be efficient, HIIT workouts typically last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes.
Generally, HIIT trainers will cater to activities like lateral movements, jumps and quick changes of direction, with their thick support and responsive cushioning to absorb impact. This type of gym trainer also will have improved durability and grip, to ensure they can maintain traction on various terrains. Essentially, HIIT shoes are a get addition to your fitness arsenal, if you're someone who is looking to maximise their performance and safety during HIIT workouts.
Best overall trainers for HIIT with explosive power
Sports Directwww.sportsdirect.com
The TriBase Reign 5 features a stable base with a low-to-the-ground feel, ensuring a solid base for lifting, powerful movements, and it also helps to promote natural motion. Its outsole design with triangular grips will give you all the traction you need to make snappy lateral movements and quick transitions. The upper is designed with breathable materials for comfort during intense workouts, because let's be honest, HIIT can get HOT!
Pros
- Under Armour WARP technology for a locked-down feel
- Full-length Micro G foam midsole for added responsiveness
- Rubber build under the toe box so your toes can help with grip
Cons
- Some reviewers found the shoes can take a couple of wears to break in
Best HIIT trainers for comfort
ASICSwww.asics.com
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus Lite 3 offers a plush and comfortable ride during any gym workout, whether that be HIIT or just running on the treadmill. In the heel and forefoot you can find ASICS signature GEL cushioning technology, which helps to absorb impact forces, lessening the risk of injury during your workouts. Another bonus is the Lite 3 is designed with at least 20 percent recycled materials, making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious athletes.
Pros
- Features FF BLAST cushioning for a soft landing and responsive lift-off
- Mesh upper provides breathability
- Laser cut details in the tooling to lighten your load and conserve natural resources
Cons
- Some reviewers had issues with these shoes not keeping their feet cool and dry
FAQs
Are gym trainers worth the money?
High-quality gym trainers provide athletes with several advantages, like better support, stability and durability. This will always help to improve your performance and decrease the risk of injury. If you're serious about specific forms of exercise, such as weightlifting or CrossFit, investing in a suitable pair of gym trainers can be a wise decision. Alternatively, a more cost-effective option may be to consider a well-rounded trainer, which you can wear for any type of workout.
The value of your gym trainers is subjective, and it does depend on how often you work out and how committed you are to your overall fitness. Consider elements like your goals, comfort and the longevity of the trains before making a decision as to whether the investment is worth it for you.
Are flat trainers better for the gym?
As we touched on earlier with barefoot shoes, flat trainers tend to have a thin sole with limited cushioning. Although flat trainers offer excellent stability and promote a natural foot position, for gym activities involving running, jumping, or agility training, shoes with more cushioning and support might be preferable to prevent injury. The choice of flat trainers or more cushioned gym shoes depends on your typical workout regimen, making it essential to reflect on your fitness goals and the type of exercises you perform before investing in the right pair of trainers for the gym.
Should you go up a size in gym trainers?
In essence, there's no rule on whether you should size up or down in gym trainers. Its all dependent on the shape of your feet, toes and the brand of the trainer. Your gym trainers shouldn't be too tight or too loose, but going up a size may be a good idea if you have wider feet, or if the reviews suggest the specific shoe runs small. Also be aware of the type of gym socks you plan to wear during your workouts, as thicker socks might require a slightly larger size shoe.
Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.
When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.
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