The best editor-approved gym trainers for every workout
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We all know the drill — you throw on your trusty old runners and head to the gym, thinking they'll do the job. And sure, they'll get you through a set or two. But here’s the thing: just like you wouldn’t wear your casual sneakers to run a marathon, your everyday trainers might not be cutting it for your gym sessions.
It might seem like overkill to get a new pair of shoes just for the gym, but the difference they can make to your workout is huge. Whether you're into cross-training, heavy lifting, mixing in strength with your runs, or love to HIIT your local gym classes, the right kicks can seriously level up your game.
How we tested
I’ve been hitting the gym across several weeks, putting these shoes through their paces as I try out every kind of workout. My routine includes a mix of cardio on the treadmill and stationary bike, along with boxing classes and strength training—I really love using weights. As much as I like running (she says reluctantly), cross-training is my true preference. With a background in dance, I often incorporate HIIT workouts, Pilates, and dance classes into my regimen as well.
Who I am: As an active woman in my late twenties, I go to the gym 5-6 times a week and have plenty of experience trying out new trainers. I also have wider feet with high arches, which plays a significant role in how I select shoes, so keep that in mind if your foot shape differs.
What type of trainers are best for the gym?
It honestly comes down to preference, take note of what you look for when you're doing your usual workout - do you need additional support to keep you stable or is it flexibility in your shoes you're after so you can workout without restriction? There are plenty of shoes on the market that can suit your specific needs and some lucky few who claim to do it all!
What's the difference between running trainers and gym trainers?
Unlike running shoes that propel you forward, gym shoes are designed for side-to-side movement with a flatter base and solid heel support for exercises like squats and lunges. They offer multi-directional support for lateral moves, jumps, and quick direction changes, with a lower heel drop for stability during lifting.
How to pick gym trainers?
There are a couple of things to look for when you're shopping for gym trainers:
Know your workout: Think about how you train. Are you into heavy lifting, or do you prefer HIIT and cardio? Different workouts need different shoes, so check out the cushioning, grip, and stability that’ll keep you on your game.
Fit is everything: When it comes to gym shoes, the right fit is everything! Take your time to find a size that feels great. Read some reviews for sizing tips, and if they don’t feel right, don’t be shy about returning them. Your feet will thank you!
Durability matters: Let’s be real—gym shoes can be a bit pricey, so you want a pair that lasts. Look for something tough enough to hold up to your workouts and won’t need replacing in just a few months. Go for quality!
The best gym trainers for every kind of workout in 2024
Without further ado, below are the editor-approved gym trainers that will work with you in the gym for every kind of workout you might be sweating it out to this year.
If you snap them up quickly, some of these beauties are currently on sale for Cyber Monday. Don't walk, run!
Free Metcon 6
I - shockingly - have never tried Nike trainers before for the gym, so these were at the top of my list when it came to testing the waters.I had heard a lot about the Metcon 5, so I was endlessly curious about their latest variation—and boy, was I impressed.
If you're looking for a super versatile shoe that can take you through an entire workout, from cardio warm-up to weight training and strength exercises, these are perfect. They provide a medium level of cushioning and support for cardio and HIIT, but the stability and grip for weight training is impressive. They're also very flexible—because there's nothing worse than feeling restricted by your shoes during planks, burpees, agility training, etc.—while still holding your foot comfortably in place.
While some reviews mentioned these aren’t ideal for those with wide feet, I found them very comfortable. They offered enough room without being too loose, preventing any slipping or sliding. They’re not the most stunning shoes in the world, but they sure are comfortable.
Gel-Kayano 31
While strength and weight training are often a priority when it comes to gym workouts, if you're like me and start your session with cardio on the treadmill or elliptical before diving into more focused training, you’ll want gym shoes that provide both cushioning and stability.
The Gel-Kayano, known for being top-tier running shoes, are perfect for hard, unforgiving treadmills. They’re also flexible enough to give you a good ground feel during other types of exercises. I loved them for my daily sprints — no aching shins, which is crucial for someone prone to shin splints like me. And when I transitioned to the mat for core, leg, or arm work, they didn’t feel overly cushioned like some running shoes do.
At first glance, I was immediately a fan of these shoes. They offer a sleek, stylish design and come in a wide variety of colours without being too over-the-top.
Overall I was actually really impressed with this more running-style shoe for the gym, and they’re a pair I’ll be reaching for again.
Dropset 3
This one's for all the lifters out there: this award-winning trainer from Adidas has a loyal fan base for a reason—it's specifically designed to support you through strength training, and it nails that brief.
The midsoles feel dense and supportive but not stiff, allowing you to push through your feet and maximise your power during lifts. The wider fit is a thoughtful touch by the brand, accommodating swollen feet—which is just *chef’s kiss*. They feel incredibly stable, and the grip on the sole ensures you can lift with total confidence.
So I actually tried on the wrong size of these, which I did not realise until I finished my workout and got home, but despite this, you can consider me a fan and I will repurchasing in my actual size ASAP.
Minimus TR v2
When I first started researching the best gym trainers, this unusual-looking pair kept appearing. Unlike anything I had ever worn, they instantly struck me as something I had to try for myself. When I opened the box and picked them up, I was genuinely surprised by how incredibly lightweight they were—just 206 grams—and their sleek, streamlined silhouette.
When I first put them on, they felt slightly tight around the sides near the front of my foot, but by the end of my workout, they had loosened up and now feel almost sculpted to my foot. My only minor concern is that they make my feet look unbelievably small—so much so that even my partner commented on how tiny they appeared.
The brand promises a “barefoot, but better” feel, and they definitely delivered. With minimal cushioning on the sole, you can really feel every muscle in your feet working—and I mean that in a good way—without the bulk of chunkier shoes. I warmed up on the bike, and they were perfect for that. While I was initially hesitant to try a light jog on the treadmill since I typically prefer more cushioning when I run, these shoes truly came into their own during weightlifting and strength training. They’re incredibly responsive, allowing me to push harder into the floor for a more secure lift.
One
I would say I tend to lean towards cross-training when it comes to how I gym, so when I first spotted these I knew I had to try. First of all, this is an incredibly good-looking shoe. They're sleek, stylish and come in an array of colourways to choose from, although this neon watermelon hue immediately caught my eye.
On wear it's no wonder why I see so many of the R.A.D Ones throughout my gym, they feel soft and springy with a decent amount of support and flexibility to get you through your workouts. On the treadmill and bike, they gave me all the cushioning I needed and when I really hit my stride with plyometric and strength training they were right there with me. They're also super lightweight which is great for bodyweight workouts in which you have your feet off the floor so you can focus on your core.
Consider these a new favourite of mine!
Deviate NITRO™ 3
If you lean towards running or class training then you're sure to be a fan of the Deviate NITRO™ 3, they're a great versatile trainer for the runner who likes to hit the gym to supplement their workouts but doesn't want to purchase a whole new pair of shoes for the occasion.
These can hold up throughout your daily runs, providing ample cushioning and support whilst remaining responsive and propulsion through your stride to help you hit that PB. They're also great for cardio or HIIT classes but can take you through some strength training for a rounded gym workout.
Cloud X 4
An underrated aspect of a great gym shoe is flexibility—you need to be able to move your feet comfortably through various activities, from planks and the stationary bike to lifting and the rowing machine. If flexibility is your priority, the Cloud X 4 is one to watch.
From the beloved Swiss brand On, these trainers are perfect for hybrid training, allowing you to seamlessly transition from plyometrics and strength work to cardio and weights. They move with you, rather than forcing you to adapt to them.
I’d consider these a fantastic all-around shoe. If you're looking for something versatile that can handle a variety of workouts and don’t mind a bit of a splurge, they're a worthy investment.
Trail Glove 7
Merrell isn’t the first brand that comes to mind when I think of gym trainers—trail and running shoes? They’re top-tier! So when I was recommended the Trail Glove 7 for gym use, I was definitely intrigued.
These shoes have a minimalist silhouette with light cushioning, truly designed as a durable alternative to barefoot running. If you've been exploring barefoot walking, running, or hiking, these might be your next go-to for the gym.
As expected, they’re extremely lightweight and incredibly comfortable, thanks to their breathability and flexible design. While they’re not the right fit for me when it comes to treadmill runs or HIIT workouts, they’ll easily become a new favourite for anyone into the barefoot movement.
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