Whether you’re committing to a lifting regimen or just want something comfortable for everyday runs, choosing the right footwear can make a difference in how you train. To find the best workout shoes for men, we tested several pairs ourselves and evaluated others for comfort, support, durability and activity-specific performance. The Reebok Nano X5 stands out as our best all-around option for its stable base, roomy toe box and versatility, but we also found great picks for running, CrossFit, lifting, racing and recovery. Below, find gym shoes and other athletic styles for men, no matter how you prefer to work up a sweat.
After comparing comfort, construction and durability, we tracked down the best workout shoes for men.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
Our Top Recommendations
Sizes: 4.5-14 | Weight (per pair): 22 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 7mm
Pros:
- Flexible upper
- Excellent stability
- Roomy toe box
Cons:
- Less cushioning for long runs and jumping
The Nano X5 debuted in 2025, nearly 15 years after Reebok launched the original Nano and became the official footwear brand of CrossFit. With a 7mm drop, its low-profile design feels stable, and the wide toe box gives your forefoot room to splay with each step, improving balance and control. Despite being based on an older design, Reebok continues to refine these shoes, keeping them as lightweight (around 11 ounces per shoe), breathable, flexible and grippy as any cross-training counterparts. It’s a true do-it-all shoe, built for a wide range of workouts.
With that said, the Nano X5 doesn’t offer much in the way of cushioning, which can make repetitive jumps and long runs feel jarring—that’s the tradeoff for its stability and sheer versatility. If you’re after a cross trainer with more cushioning, the Nike Metcon or NoBull Outwork Edge might be a better fit. But if you need a tough, reliable shoe to power through varied workouts, the Nano X5 is more than up to the task.
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Sizes: 6-15 | Weight (per pair): 23.6 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 4mm
Pros:
- Durable, stable base
- Solid support for weightlifting and rope climbs
- Wide toe box
Cons:
- Heavier than similar CrossFit shoes
You can think of the Metcon as Nike’s answer to the Reebok Nano and the NoBull Impact. Released in 2015, it’s a well-rounded, versatile cross trainer designed to power you through just about any workout. Like the Nano, it has a slight 4mm drop, and a strip of sticky fabric extends from the base to the top of the shoe, adding durability for rope climbs. Underfoot, dual-density foam boosts support and responsiveness, while the grippy rubber outsole keeps you steady on different surfaces.
The main drawback is that the Metcon 10 is on the heavier side, and you’ll feel that extra weight through box jumps or jumping rope. The upper also isn’t the most breathable, though it won’t leave your feet overheating during a tough workout. And because it’s lighter than its predecessor, the Metcon 9, you’re ultimately shedding a few ounces, which never hurts. Whether you’re new to CrossFit or a HIIT veteran, the Metcon 10 will get you through tough workouts.
Sizes: 7-14 | Weight (per pair): 20.8 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 6mm
Pros:
- Cushioning minimizes impact
- Deep lugs grab onto loose terrain
- Rugged upper protects foot
Cons:
- Minimal ground feel
If you’re running on truly tough terrain, from steep, rocky trails to muddy woodland paths, then a pair of On Cloudultra 3 shoes will serve you well. Having worn these trail runners through varied conditions, the outsole’s chevron-shaped lugs are about 3.5mm deep to bite into loose surfaces and onto rocks or roots. Meanwhile, the CloudTec cushioning system delivers plenty of impact mitigation with each step, even if you’re charging downhill.
The thick soles don’t provide much meaningful ground feel, so if you prefer a more minimalist shoe that keeps you connected to the ground, look elsewhere. Otherwise, the blend of support, cushioning and traction is hard to beat.
NoBull
NoBull Outwork Edge
Sizes: 7-18 | Weight (per pair): 26.26 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 4mm
Pros:
- Built for a variety of gym exercises
- Great shock absorption
- Solid stability and support
Cons:
- Limited breathability
Take a quick scan around your local gym, and you’ll likely spot a pair or two of NoBull Outwork Edge (formerly Impact) cross-trainers. This pair is very popular among athletes for good reason: Designed to be equal parts supportive and cushioned, they’re a do-it-all workhorse in the gym. They feature a 4mm heel drop to provide a secure, grounded feel for recreational weightlifting. They also have a grippy sole to tackle quick, multi-directional movements, rope climbing and a variety of CrossFit exercises.
But this NoBull design sets itself apart from shoes like the Reebok Nano X5 with its added cushioning. The thick midsole excels at shock absorption, making it a more comfortable choice for jumping, walking and short sprints. In other words, it can help take the sting out of high-intensity movements, like box jumps and burpees. That said, avid long-distance runners are better off with a shoe that has a plusher and more responsive feel, like the Asics Gel-Kayano 32.
Amazon
Asics Gel-Kayano 32
Sizes: 6-16 | Weight (per pair): 21 ounces | Width: Standard, wide, extra wide | Drop: 8mm
Pros:
- Breathable mesh upper
- Extra cushioning under the heel
- Available in lots of sizes and widths
Cons:
- Not ideal for races or tempo runs
The latest entry in a long line of celebrated running shoes, the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 offers superlative cushioning and response. Your feet will feel great even after a long run thanks to a thick layer of “PureGEL” foam, which is an extra-soft silicone-based material found under the heel. This cushioning also helps you launch into each stride, offering solid energy return. And the shape of the midsole holds your foot in place, reducing overpronation and enhancing stability.
Former Forbes Vetted staff writer Steven John has worn many pairs of Asics shoes and has always found that they fit true to size, though a number of online reviews suggest the Gel-Kayano 32 runs narrow. That said, the style’s breathable upper releases excess heat to keep your feet cool for miles to come.
Sizes: 5-14 | Weight (per pair): 16 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 7mm
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Carbon-plated midsole
- Responsive and breathable
Cons:
- Not suitable for daily use (less durable than other shoes)
The Hoka Rocket X 3 is built for one thing: speed. If you’re chasing a PR or trying to hit a qualifying time, this is the race shoe to have on your feet. It’s shockingly lightweight—a full pair weighs about one pound—yet it doesn’t skimp on performance. The winged carbon plate provides just the right amount of stiffness to keep your stride snappy and efficient. Meanwhile, dual-density PEBA foam, stacked in two layers, offers plush yet responsive cushioning to keep your legs feeling fresh deep into a race.
Of course, like most high-performance race shoes, all this technology doesn’t come cheap, and the foam won’t maintain its spring forever—it’s built for speed over longevity, and typically gives its best results until about the 250-mile mark. But if you’re looking for a dedicated race-day shoe that gives you every possible advantage, from a lightweight feel to energy-returning propulsion, this one delivers.
Sizes: 3.5-18.5 | Weight (per pair): 38 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 20mm
Pros:
- Grippy rubber tread
- Dual foot straps dial in the fit
- Available in a range of sizes
Cons:
- Toe box might be too narrow for wide feet
Nike’s Romaleos 4 weightlifting shoes are a solid choice if your training revolves around squats, presses and Olympic lifts with heavy weights. With a 20mm (0.75-inch) heel, they provide an aggressive drop that encourages a deeper, more upright squat position—exactly what you want when chasing big numbers. The large heel lift is preferred for Olympic weightlifting, offering the stability and support needed to handle heavy loads with confidence. And the tread offers excellent grip and support, which is critical when you’re lifting heavy weights.
The upper isn’t as breathable as a typical athletic shoe, but you’re not logging miles in these anyway, so it isn’t as much of a concern. The two foot straps running across the upper of each shoe deliver a locked-in fit that reduces any chance of slipping when you’re under load. And some reviews suggest the shoes run narrow, so keep that in mind if you have wider feet.
Hoka
Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3
Sizes: 3-14 | Weight (per pair): 15.6 ounces | Width: Standard | Drop: 6mm
Pros:
- Thick, cloud-like cushioning
- Very lightweight
- Breathable
Cons:
- Limited traction underfoot
Whether or not you buy into the idea of recovery footwear, there’s no denying the comfort of slipping into a pair of soft, open-toed sandals after a tough run—and Hoka’s Ora Recovery Slide 3 delivers to hush your barking dogs. Built with a thick foam midsole for maximum cushioning, it feels like walking on a cloud, and airflow channels help keep your feet cool and comfortable (which we imagine also feels like walking on a cloud).
There’s not much to this slide, but that’s exactly the point—it’s simple, plush and designed for pure relaxation. Some reviewers mention it runs a bit large, so if you’re new to Hoka, you might want to size down. But if you already wear the brand, your usual size should be just right.
How We Chose The Best Workout Shoes For Men
We took a closer look at what goes into comfortable, durable workout shoes for men, keeping a few key factors in mind. We also tested several options ourselves, including the Nike Pegasus Trail 5, Hoka Ora Recovery Slide and Asics Gel-Kayano 32s.
- Comfort: We looked for options with responsive cushioning, supportive midsoles and a secure fit that won’t cause discomfort. Breathable materials were also prioritized to keep feet cool and dry.
- Stability: We picked models with grippy rubber soles, lateral support and solid heels to help prevent slipping or wobbling, and provide confidence with each step.
- Durability: We focused on well-made options that feature tough yet flexible materials. Reinforced uppers, grippy outsoles and quality stitching also earned high marks.
- Workout type: We made sure to include an assortment of running shoes, cross trainers, lifting shoes and even recovery footwear, so there’s a solid option for every discipline.
What To Consider When Shopping For Workout Shoes
When it comes to finding a pair of workout shoes, you’ll want to look beyond the brands you know and the online hype that launches styles into stardom. Here’s how to break it down:
Workout Preferences
Start with how you plan to use the shoes most often. Running, cross-training and lifting place very different demands on your feet, so the best construction depends largely on your workout. Of course, not all workout shoes are created equal. They’re made from slightly different materials and fit a bit differently on your feet. For example, road and trail running shoes rely on breathable uppers and supportive midsoles for propulsion; cross-training shoes offer lateral support and stability; and lifting shoes typically have a firm, elevated heel that can make it easier to maintain an upright position and reach depth during squats.
Fit
Your shoes should feel good out of the box, and they should offer enough cushioning and support to maintain comfort through any workout. According to Dr. Chloe Costigan, PT, of Mobility-Doc, you’ll want to look for styles that deliver a snug feel (though it shouldn’t be too tight), breathable materials and the right arch support for your foot. That said, you won’t always know if a shoe is right for you the first time you wear it. And as Dr. Costigan points out, it’s not just about how your feet feel. The wrong pair can cause discomfort in your knees and lower back, too. If something feels off, it’s a sign to try something different.
Stability And Support
A stable shoe helps prevent injuries. For cross trainers or weightlifting, find shoes with features like a firm heel counter, lateral support and a grippy outsole that provides the balance and traction you need for dynamic movements. For road running, look for shoes with ample midsole cushioning to absorb impact; and for trail runners, you’ll want something with decent cushion and good grip so you’re not sliding around on dirt and rocks.
Durability
Workout shoes take a beating, so you want something made from high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use. Reinforced stitching, strong uppers and a tough rubber outsole all make for a longer-lasting shoe.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team is filled with fitness buffs—and we’ve tapped into our personal experiences as gym-goers to publish a collection of gear guides focused on health and fitness.
- Former Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta is an avid runner, hiker, biker and skier who spent six years covering outdoor and gym essentials. With a degree in kinesiology, he’s also helped an assortment of athletes who rely on athletic footwear.
- Former staff writer Steven John, who also contributed to the piece, has relied on many different workout shoes over the years as a runner and weightlifter himself.
- We regularly revisit this guide to make sure our advice is accurate and up to date. It was last updated in August 2026.
Our Expert
- Dr. Chloe Costigan, PT, of Mobility-Doc
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
