hink any ol’ sneaker will get the job done during your workout? Sorry to say that you, my friend, are terribly mistaken. As anyone who’s ever attempted to exercise in a cheap pair of sneakers knows, poorly-made workout shoes will leave you with blisters, shin splints, and a long list of other not-so-great injuries. While the best workout shoes may cost ya some $$$, they’re well worth the investment, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or someone who’s more likely to be running late than actually, you know, running.
Ofc, finding the best sneakers for you totally depends on the types of activities you do and any injuries or issues you may have, such as overpronation (which is when your feet roll inward) or supination (which is when your feet roll outward). As New York City-based podiatrist Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, previously told Cosmo, “Fitness levels, age, and foot type can make whatever is appropriate for your feet different from what your friend wear,” adding that flat feet require more structured, motion-controlling sneakers, while arched feet need more support and cushioning.
Whether you’re into jogging, sprinting, hiking, lifting, or going for leisurely strolls while looking cute AF, we’ve rounded up all the best workout shoes for women, depending on your needs. And go ahead and treat yourself to a cute new workout ‘fit while you’re at it, ’cause what will give you more motivation than looking like a full-on gym-fluencer?
1
BEST OVERALL WORKOUT SHOES
Cloud X
$140 AT ON RUNNING
Designed to tackle everything from road running and gym sessions to training and fitness classes, these bbs are your best bet if you want an all-in-one shoe for all your exercise needs. Plus, can we talk about how stylish?
2
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR RUNNING
React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
$160 AT NIKE
With its super-thick foam heights, this knit shoe was specifically designed to prevent running injuries, making it an ideal choice for road runners. The arch support in this shoe is also fab for people with mild overpronation.
3
MOST VERSATILE WORKOUT SHOES
Zig Dynamica
$80 AT REEBOK
For a shoe that transitions perfectly from working out to going out, Skechers Shoes Outlets you’ll wanna get this incredibly chic style from Reebok. They’re wildly comfortable, a great choice for all your gym needs, and a total steal at only $80.
4
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR TRAINING
TechLoom Pro
$160 AT ATHLETIC PROPULSION LABS
If you’re a big fan of HIIT workouts and cross-training, then this sneaker has everything you need: a flat sole for quick movement, a mesh upper for ventilation, and an incredibly lightweight design. No wonder why this pair has hundreds of five-star reviews!!
5
MOST SUSTAINABLE WORKOUT SHOES
Condor 2
$160 AT NORDSTROM
You’ve probs seen Meghan Markle rocking Veja’s V-10 leather sneaker, but did you know they make sustainable workout sneakers, too? Made from recycled bottles and all-around mesh fabric, these casual running shoes are a great choice for short recovery runs or longer walks.
6
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR BAD KNEES
Gel-Kayano 28
$160 AT ASICS
While Asics may not make the most ~fashionable~ sneaks out there, they def make the most practical ones, and these bbs are a must for anyone with bad knees (aka pretty much anyone over the age of 30). The cushiony midsole and foamy heels help offset any shock absorption, which is good news for your aching joints.
7
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR SUPPORT
Wave Horizon 5
$160 AT MIZUNOUSA.COM
Need an everyday walking and running shoe with tons of support? The Wave Horizon 5 is your girl. With its springy foam sole and max cushioning, these bbs are specifically designed to help those with overpronation.
8
BEST WASHABLE WORKOUT SHOES
Tree Dashers
$125 AT ALLBIRDS
Not only are these knit sneakers sustainable, durable, and comfy AF—you can also throw ’em in the wash after your workout to keep them from ever getting stinky. Hey Dude Women’s Shoes .Go ahead and check out the t-h-o-u-s-a-n-d-s of glowing reviews raving about these beauts.
9
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR TRAILS
Peregrine 11
$120 AT SAUCONY
With its versatile grip and rock plate for protection, these rugged sneakers can handle any kind of terrain (even at top speed!), and they even have enough traction to handle snow and mud. You’ll also love that you can get them in a wide version and in tonsssss of fun colors and patterns.
10
MOST COMFORTABLE WORKOUT SHOES
Clifton 8
$140 AT HOKA.COM
The most supportive long-distance sneakers on the market rn? These bestsellers from Hoka. In addition to being ridiculously comfortable, this design has a chunky sole that allows you to pound the pavement without having to worry about shin splits (which are a major bummer, ICYDK).
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11
BEST HIGH TOP WORKOUT SHOES
Defy Mid Metal
$100 AT PUMA
With its mid-height sock collar and fun metallic cross straps, these slip-on training shoes definitely aren’t your average sneakers. The high rebound foam sole and super-breathable mesh upper are perf for cross-training, while the design is ideal for making everyone else at the gym jealous.
12
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR WALKING
Cloudfoam Pure 2.0
$75 AT ADIDAS
Yes, you’ve probs seen this shoe all over your IG feed, and yes, it’s for a good reason. Even with that super-thick sole, this sneaker is amazingly lightweight, so you can walk in it for miles without even being tempted to complain. Win!
13
BEST WATERPROOF WORKOUT SHOES
Speedcross 5
$150 AT SALOMON
Hi, if you can’t tell, these shoes aren’t f*cking around. Made with Gore-Tex (meaning they’re totally waterproof), these heavy-duty trail running shoes provide TONS of cushioning and protection for all of your off-road adventures.
14
BEST RETRO WORKOUT SHOES
Alpine
$90 AT MERRELL
For sneaks with some retro flair, go with these bad boys from Merrell. Featuring a chic leather and nylon upper and practical rubber outsole for traction, these shoes let you hike, bike, and run errands in style.
15
MOST LIGHTWEIGHT WORKOUT SHOES
Crossvine Sneakers
$89 AT SIMISIENNA.COM
With its super-breathable air mesh upper, this sleek sneak will keep your foot totally ventilated during any sort of light exercise, making this model the perfect balance of fashion and function.
16
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR WIDE FEET
Fresh Foam X 860v12
$135 AT NEW BALANCE
Just like Asics, New Balance sneaks aren’t known for their high fashion, and that’s A-OK!! Instead, this model is known for reliably handling roads, tracks, courts, and fields, and best of all, it’s available in four different width options: standard, wide, extra wide, and narrow.
17
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR SPEED
Launch 8
$100 AT BROOKS RUNNING
Got a need for speed? Sprinters should get these lightweight road shoes, which are made with air-injected rubber for quick transitions on roads and tracks. It also comes in a wider width option and a huge variety of colorful patterns.
18
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR SPORTS
Jordan Delta 2
$86 AT NIKE
You’ve definitely heard of Air Jordans, but did you know they made stylish shoes for women, too? The Delta 2 has an incredibly durable rubber outsole and ultra-soft foam sole for cushioning your foot no matter the activity (and it looks reeeeally good while doing it).
19
MOST STYLISH WORKOUT SHOES
Ivy Park UltraBOOST
$200 AT ADIDAS
Fashionistas, this one’s for you. Designed in collaboration with Queen Beyoncé herself, these vibrant green sneaks provide plenty of cushioning and will earn you plenty of envious stares whenever you wear ’em.
20
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR LIFTING
UA HOVR Apex 3
$140 AT UNDER ARMOUR
For the ladies who lift: Let me direct your attention to this fab shoe. Withs its flat sole, this model was designed to maximize ground control and keep you balanced, making it perfect for all your snatching and squatting needs.
21
BEST WORKOUT SHOES FOR DISTANCE
Lapatet
$125 AT ENDASPORTSWEAR.COM
Long-distance runners, your search for the perfect sneaker is over. With its breathable knit upper and slightly wider-than-normal toe box, this shoe is a great choice for long runs and recovery runs—plus, a portion of every sale goes towards social initiatives in Kenya.
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