The right workout shoes lay the foundation to help you meet—and exceed—your fitness goals, and ultimately create better habits. However, finding the right pair isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. After extensive research, I landed on the best workout shoes for women: My top pick overall is the On’s Cloud X3, due to its supreme comfort and versatility. Meanwhile, NOBULL’s Impact Gum is great for gym-specific workouts, including cross training and weight lifting.
We rounded up the best workout shoes for women that inspire you to get moving and stay motivated.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers
The fitness experts I spoke with pointed out that certain features should be prioritized depending on your preferred activity; your movements and level of impact often dictate the ideal shoe for you. All of our winners are stylish and supportive and keep your feet and joints healthy for light to intense sweat sessions. Whether you need dependable running shoes or a pair for HIIT sessions, these are the best workout shoes for women to help you achieve your personal best.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 12 total, including Rose/Sand and Savannah/Frost | Weight: 7.09 ounces
What’s notable: This shoe’s lightweight cushioning cradles the foot, while the speed lacing system makes it easy to take it on and off.
What could be better: Some reviewers note these have a narrow fit, and there isn’t a lot of stretch.
Swiss-engineered and designed On has skyrocketed to popularity since the company’s founding in 2010 due to their cloud-like running shoes—which provide a firm takeoff and cushioned landing. The On Cloud X3 offers stability and cushioning, and it’s extremely lightweight, so it’s basically the holy grail for everything from lunges to squats to burpees to interval runs on the treadmill. While this model is more minimalist than some of the other super-springy Ons, it’s sturdy enough for varied workouts.
What the reviews say: While many are fans of this cross trainer, saying they’re “a pleasure to run with” and that they love “the no slip laces and how the shoes really hold my foot in place while exercising,” a few reviewers say “the shoe has no stretch whatsoever.”
Best Gym Shoes For Women
NOBULL: Top-Rated Pick For Lifting
MOST POPULAR
Nobull
NOBULL Impact Gum
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 5 total, including Arctic Gum and Black Gum | Weight: 13.1 ounces
What’s notable: These shoes have an abrasion-resistant upper and durable outsole, which provides extra stability and support.
What could be better: Some reviewers say these shoes run small; popular colors are sometimes subject to restocking delays.
Based in Boston, Massachusetts, NOBULL has been in business since 2014 but recently became buzzworthy, thanks to their bestselling Gum Trainer, which has a low heel stack that keeps you closer to the ground and a supportive structure that adds extra stability. The flat sole helps guide your foot so you have the ideal lift-off from heel to toe, and the upper is water-resistant and built to withstand intense workouts. Also great: The anatomical insole molds to your foot and the toe box is wide to keep you comfortable as your feet swell during exercise.
What our testers say: “These are the best shoes for weight training due to their durability,” says Forbes Vetted’s senior operations manager Blaire Tiernan. “The flat sole also provides a strong base, so you truly feel solid and stable while lifting. These shoes are firm and lightweight, creating the perfect lifting shoe.”
Best Affordable Workout Shoes For Women
Under Armour: A Great Basic At A Great Price
Under Armour
Under Armour Charged Assert 9
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Standard, Wide | Colors: 30 total, including Black and Halo Grey | Weight: 8.9 ounces
What’s notable: This shoe has a breathable upper and soft sock liner; it also comes in two widths.
What could be better: The stiff upper fabric might be uncomfortable in the ankle for some.
For a springy model with out-of-the-box comfiness, this all-around shoe comes at an affordable price point. It features a lightweight, breathable upper, a soft sock liner for a snug fit, and a cushiony foam midsole that’s forgiving on joints. Reviewers love this pair for everything from running to interval training to providing support during long days standing at work. Many even say they’re deep enough to accommodate an orthotic—although some comment they run slightly wide.
What the reviews say: Many say these provide “instant comfort when I put them on,” and “I liked them so much I bought a second pair of the exact same ones for when these get finished,” while multiple wearers note sizing inconsistencies and a small fit.
Best Cross Training Shoes For Women
Nike: A Game-Changing, Multi-Purpose Shoe
Nike
Nike Metcon 9
Sizes: 5 to 15 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 15 total, including Sea Glass and Light Silver | Weight: Not listed
What’s notable: These Nikes offer plenty of stability, making them ideal for wearing while lifting weights or doing squats.
What could be better: The shoelaces are shorter than previous versions, and some customers say they run on the smaller side.
The Nike Metcon is one of those shoes that has a cult following—many users are on their third or fourth pair—because they’re an all-around popular fit for HIIT, weightlifting, CrossFit and more. This shoe has a wide and flat heel that’s great for maintaining balance while lifting, a durable mesh upper with plastic overlays for stability and a handy lace lock system to keep laces from tripping you up mid-workout.
What the reviews say: Several customers praise these shoes’ lightweight feel and stable support. “The sturdy base assists with balance but the toe area bends well enough that I can comfortably do lunges without falling over or hurting myself,” writes one Nike reviewer. However, a few customers found the shoe to be too stiff and slightly heavy.
Best Walking Shoes For Women
Hoka: Extreme Cushioning For A Smooth Ride
Hoka
Hoka Clifton 9
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, Wide | Colors: 21 total, including Evening Sky and Swim Day | Weight: 7.3 ounces
What’s notable: The Hoka Clifton 9 has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
What could be better: Some say the sole wears out after several wears.
In our tested review of the best walking shoes for women, Hoka’s Clifton 9 scored the highest on cushioning. If you’re a fan of a rocker shoe—which has a thicker sole that creates a smooth transition from heel strike to toe off—the Clifton has an extremely lightweight EVA foam midsole that won’t weigh you down. The outsole is durable but flexible, the padded, extended heel collar holds your foot in place, and it’s got a breathable mesh upper to keep feet cool.
What our testers say: “These shoes are super comfortable and are my go-to for everything from jogging to dog-walking to workout classes or even heading to the airport,” says Cory Baldwin, executive director of commerce content and strategy at Forbes Vetted. “They are definitely on the clunky side but offer a ton of support and feel more lightweight than you would expect just by looking at them. My feet are on the wider side and they are very accommodating.”
Best HIIT Shoes For Women
Asics: Lightweight, Nimble And Cushioned
Asics
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 12 total, including Sapphire/Light Blue and White | Weight: 9.2 ounces
What’s notable: This shoe’s gel cushioning absorbs shock, while the grippy sole provides excellent traction.
What could be better: The mesh upper, while breathable, isn’t water-resistant.
No workout shoe is perfect for every single person and choosing the best fit is incredibly personal, but this top-rated sneaker has been consistently popular since 1999 for a reason. It offers superior cushioning and stability, and while it’s technically a running shoe, it’s versatile enough for everything from to burpees to lunges to incline treadmill sprints. Reviewers like this version of the Nimbus for its roomy toe box, which is an improvement on previous versions.
What the reviews say: Several reviewers praise the Nimbus 26 for its comfortable fit, describing wearing the shoes as “walking on clouds.” One Asics customer writes, “I love the 26 version. The toe box gives plenty of room and the support along the ankle is perfect.” However, some shoppers note that the shoes need a bit of break-in time.
Best Running Shoes For Women
Brooks: A Shock Absorber With High Energy Return
Brooks
Brooks Ghost 15
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Widths: Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide | Colors: 28 total, including Black and Dark Navy Blue | Weight: 9.1 ounces
What’s notable: These lightweight, supportive shoes have a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
What could be better: The fit is larger than previous versions of this style, and may not provide proper support for flat feet.
Brooks has been in business since 1914, but it decided to focus strictly on producing excellent running shoes in 2001. The brand’s foam midsoles are notoriously adaptive and bouncy, offering runners both shock absorption and rebound. This neutral running shoe—the latest version of the Ghost, which was first introduced in 2008—is beloved for its cushioning and stability that can handle both shorter runs and long hauls.
What the reviews say: Reviewers praise these for their support and comfort as a running shoe, saying “my ankles are supported, I have more pep in my run, and I can run longer than I ever have” and “my foot lands how it is supposed to!” Many, however, say older versions of the shoe is better: “I have bought Ghost 14s for years due to plantar fasciitis and loved that shoe. Ghost 15 [doesn’t offer] the same support.”
Best Tennis Shoes For Women
Asics: Ideal For Fast-Paced Direction Changing On The Court
Amazon
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Width: Standard | Colors: 11 total, including White/Black and Grape Nectar/Cameo Pink | Weight: Not listed
What’s notable: Designed with a high-density outsole and plantar support in the midsole, this tennis shoe optimizes your performance on the court.
What could be better: Multiple customers note that these shoes are quite heavy; they’re not ideal if you want a lightweight shoe.
Whether you’re ripping groundstrokes or smashing overheads, this shoe is consistently a court favorite for support and durability. (Case in point: We named it our top pick on our Best Tennis Shoes For Women list.) A high-density outsole provides traction, while the built-in plantar support ensures your feet won’t ache once the match is finished. Plus, the brand’s Durawrap Flex material protects the foot while allowing for movement. Many have even adopted this as a pickleball shoe.
What the reviews say: Many customers buy these shoes specifically for tennis and pickleball. “I played for five straight hours my first time wearing them and my feet never got sore,” one Amazon shopper writes. “They seem sturdy enough to run and stop in without fear of poking a hole through the toe area.” However, some reviewers found the shoes to be too stiff for their liking.
Best Training Shoes For Women
Reebok: The Perfect Fit For Explosive Interval Training
Reebok
Reebok Nano X4
Sizes: 5.5 to 16 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 12 total, including Grey and White | Weight: Not listed
What’s notable: This shoe offers stability and support while maintaining a minimalist, sleek silhouette.
What could be better: Some customers say this shoe feels stiff upon initial wear, and requires some breaking in.
When you’re doing high intensity interval training, you’ll need a responsive cross-training shoe that’s breathable and doesn’t make you overheat. This top-rated, lightweight and airy model has a slim heel for stability, a high-traction outsole that’s grippy for both indoor and outdoor and a springy forefoot which will make transitions from mountain climbers to split squat jumps a breeze.
What the reviews say: Many like the stability of this shoe, with one reviewer reporting that “the shoe felt more locked in than previous iterations of the Nano.” They also commented that there was a “good amount of cushioning behind the heel.” However, some customers feel the shoe’s toe box is too stiff and narrow.
Best Dance Cardio Shoes For Women
On: A Lightweight Shoe With Excellent Stability
On
On Cloudpulse
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Width: Standard | Colors: 4 total, including Pearl/Blossom and Black/Eclipse | Weight: Not listed
What’s notable: The On Cloudpulse 5 is designed with the brand’s patented Speedboard that provides stability during lateral movements.
What could be better: These shoes are on the narrow side, so they may not be comfortable for wide feet.
Zumba and hip-hop classes require lots of footwork, and this pair offers just the right amount of flexibility along with arch and ankle support for lateral movements, pivoting and jumping. On’s signature Speedboard provides excellent stability, while the patented CloudTec cushioning ensures your feet are comfortable with each step.
What our editors say: Lifestyle commerce editor Kat Louie writes in her review of the On Cloudpulse, “I wore these shoes to a 60-minute dance-based cardio workout on a trampoline, and I was impressed by how stable I felt—especially on an uneven surface.” She continues, “After using these sneakers for several weeks, I was impressed with the Cloudpulse’s performance during varying workouts.”
We consulted with two top workout professionals: Kate Lamere, chief instructor at Barry’s Chicago and New York City-based personal trainer and running coach Elizabeth Corkum.
Our experts discussed key factors to look for when shopping for women’s workout shoes, how the right shoe can bolster your workouts and practical advice on how to care for your sneakers.
We regularly refresh this article to ensure all product selections are in stock and all pricing information is accurate. It was last updated in May 2024 by fashion writer Claire Epting.
How We Chose The Best Women’s Workout Shoes
To find the best workout shoes for women, the Forbes Vetted team first researched top footwear brands that have stellar reputations for crafting high-quality athletic shoes.
We spoke with the above experts for guidance and considered shoes highly rated by professionals.
We pored through hundreds of product reviews, pulling out key insights about shoe performance in real-life settings.
Two of our picks came personally recommended by Forbes Vetted testers. Cory Baldwin, executive director of commerce content and strategy, wears the Hoka Clifton 9, while senior operations manager Blaire Tiernan owns the NOBULL Impact Gum.
We also considered if the shoes were available in a wide range of sizes, widths and colors.
What To Consider When Buying Workout Shoes
The best shoes for you depends on your workouts, your anatomy and the way you move. “Proper footwear is the foundation of your form when training, regardless of modality,” says Kate Lamere, chief instructor at Barry’s Chicago. Below, the top things to keep in mind when shopping for the best women’s workout shoes:
Activity Type
Cross trainers aren’t made for running, just like running shoes likely have too much grip for tennis. Buy shoes that are made for your specific activity to achieve the best support, comfort and performance.
Running: “A running or walking shoe is unique to the individual and should enhance your foot anatomy, running economy and hip alignment,” says Lamere. New York City-based personal trainer and running coach Elizabeth Corkum adds, “Most runners will be best suited in a neutral shoe, which tends to have less ‘spring’ or material than a stability shoe or super shoe.” Also consider what type of surface you plan to run on, whether it be a treadmill, a track, a trail or asphalt, as this may determine the best sole and upper material for your needs.
HIIT: “HIIT workouts require agility, balance and often lateral movements,” says Lamere. “You want to look for a sole with a minimal shape that's flexible with cushioned support. The laces should tighten around the entire foot for a movable but supportive feel, and then finally, the sole should offer traction and stability to avoid slipping on polished surfaces.”
Weight Training: “Strength training is best performed with a shoe with a flat and hard sole and a wide heel to ensure your weight can be distributed from edge to edge,” says Lamere. “When lifting, you want your feet to be as close to the ground as possible and next to no shape on the bottom of the shoe.”
Size And Width
Most women’s workout shoes come in medium widths, but some brands—such as New Balance, Brooks, and Hoka—also come in narrow or wide widths, so you can choose what works best for you depending on your foot anatomy. Workout shoes require a little more breathing room than casual sneakers, especially if you’re a runner, and you might need to size up from your typical size. A roomy toe box is necessary so your toes can comfortably spread as you move and the shoe should firmly hug your heel without any slippage. Take a few steps, jumps, squats and lunges to test them out in a variety of positions. We recommend trying sneakers on indoors to keep them in pristine condition, just in case you end wanting to return them.
Sole
In general, flatter soles work well for lifting weights as they allow for weight distribution and a connection with the ground. For cross training or running shoes, “the sole of the shoe will vary greatly depending on the type of shoe—neutral, stability, super shoe—and in stack height and heel drop,” says Corkum. The stack height refers to how much material is between your foot and the ground, and it implies how cushiony the shoe will feel. The heel drop of a shoe, which is measured in millimeters, refers to the difference between the heel and toe cushioning, and it affects the way your foot strikes the ground.
Upper Fabric
“Fabrics have evolved a lot, especially in the last 10 to 15 years,” says Corkum. “In general, most running shoes are designed to be lightweight, breathable and durable in the top of the shoe.” Many workout shoes have an upper made from engineered mesh, which is lightweight and doesn’t cause feet to sweat. Trail shoes sometimes incorporate a Gore-Tex membrane or a ripstop nylon.
What Type Of Shoe Is Best For Working Out?
Cushioning, traction and support are important workout shoe features, and the On Cloud X3 provides all three. This shoe earns high marks in terms of versatility—even though it was designed with running in mind, it’s also suitable for lunges, squats and burpees. However, if your workouts tend to revolve around one activity (think dance cardio classes or tennis), you should consider a shoe tailored for those specific movements.
Can You Wear Running Shoes To The Gym?
In general, running shoes and gym shoes are constructed differently; running shoes have a higher stack height and more midsole cushioning, while gym shoes typically have flatter soles for greater stability. Ideally, you should have separate pairs for both activities. If your workouts revolve around using the treadmill, however, a running shoe could be suitable for a gym setting. But if weight training and floor workouts are more your speed, we recommend a designated gym shoe like the NOBULL Impact Gum Trainer.
What Shoes Are Best For HIIT Workouts?
For cardio-focused HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workouts, we recommend the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26. It offers plenty of traction, which is helpful for incline treadmill sprints and lunges. Or, if your HIIT workout involves more strength training, opt for the Nike Metcon 9 or the Reebok Nano X4. Both of these options have wide, flat soles that provide excellent stability.
