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So, what is a cross-training shoe, anyway? They’re the MVP of sneakers, honestly: Think of the best cross-training shoes as do-it-all footwear for a wide range of workouts. These all-purpose kicks aren't just about versatility—they're about efficiency. Our certified trainers say they save you time and money by eliminating the need for multiple pairs, such as shoes for HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workouts, and constant changes between activities within a single sweat session.Best Cross-Training ShoesKeep in mind that not every cross-trainer is a perfect fit for every gym-goer. Your unique needs, whether it's cushioning preferences or specific stability needs, dictates what's best for your feet. Ultimately, it's about finding what feels right for your feet and the type of workouts you typically perform. Mali Pelham, CPT, CFSC, recommends keeping size and fit, weight, heel-to-toe drop, support, and activities in mind when you're on the hunt for a new pair of cross-trainers. Related video above: Staying physically active through winter benefits heart, mental healthWhat To ConsiderSize And FitWhen it's time to find the right shoe for any occasion, a comfortable fit is the most crucial criterion. Your feet should feel supported, not suffocated, and you shouldn't be counting down the minutes until you can kick them off, according to Pelham. Look for features like a snug midfoot and ample toe room to ensure maximum comfort during workouts.Ensure you find the right size by trying on shoes in multiple sizes whenever possible. (Ordering multiple pairs from retailers that offer free returns is always a good idea!) Pay attention not only to length but also to width, as different brands may offer varying widths to accommodate different foot shapes.WeightCross-training shoes come in a range of weights, from lightweight options that are geared towards HIIT workouts, agility drills, and cardio to heavier, more grounded models designed for stability during weightlifting. (Generally, anything under 10 ounces is considered a lightweight shoe.) Consider what type of workouts you usually do, then choose a shoe with a weight that aligns with your activities.Heel-To-Toe DropThe heel-to-toe drop refers to the height difference between the heel and the forefoot of the shoe. If you're planning to use these shoes for activities like running or plyometrics, consider a minimal drop, as it promotes a more natural foot strike and encourages a midfoot or forefoot landing, which can help reduce the impact on joints and muscles. If you're seeking a shoe for weightlifting, opt for a higher drop to enhance stability and support, especially during heavier lifts.SupportThink about your foot mechanics when determining the level of support you want to get from your cross-training shoes. Neutral shoes support a more natural foot motion and are suitable for those with a neutral or supinated foot strike. Stability shoes, on the other hand, provide added support and control for individuals with flat feet and those who struggle with the arches of their feet rolling inward (also known as overpronation).ActivitiesFinally, consider the type of workouts you'll be tackling in your new kicks. Are you primarily focused on HIIT, weightlifting, plyometrics, or a combination of activities? Look for shoes tailored to your specific needs (we've called out the type of workouts each shoe is best for below), whether it's extra cushioning for high-impact movements or a stable, wide base for heavy lifts.How We ChoseThe Women’s Health editorial team has spent 18 months testing and curating the ultimate guide to the best cross-training shoes for women. In addition to putting more than 32 cross-training shoes from top-rated brands through their paces, we scored insights from certified fitness trainers including Mali Pelham, CPT, CFSC, Melissa Kendter, CPT, and Ashley Barnett, NASM.Led by fitness editor Talene Appleton, NASM, and supported by associate commerce editor Lily Wohlner and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert, our rigorous testing process involved multiple phases, including scouring reviews, consulting industry experts, and most importantly, testing the shoes firsthand. We laced up cross-trainers for a battery of tests designed to assess performance across various activities, including weightlifting, cardio, agility drills, and CrossFit workouts. The list below includes the shoes we were most impressed by.Whether you're a seasoned weightlifter or a runner on a mission to integrate more training modalities into your routine, read on for the eight best cross-training shoes you can buy right now.Best Overall Cross-Training Shoe We’ve tested every major cross-training shoe on the market, and lululemon’s Strongfeel Training Shoe received top marks from our editors because of its comfort, versatility, and great aesthetic. A great cross-training shoe is one that you should feel good about throwing on for virtually all varied, dynamic workouts, and for our testers, this shoe fits the bill better than competitors. But also? It’s super cute.They're made for strength training, but they're flexible enough for agility, rowing, and short running workouts, too. The comfortable but supportive upper and interior kept us locked in and well-ventilated during even the most intense HIIT sessions.A grippy outsole provides all the traction you'll need to stay grounded and maximize your power during your workout, indoors or outdoors. Throughout our testing, this shoe checked the most boxes in terms of performance, durability, versatility, and (stylish) wearability. Our one and only qualm is that this shoe fits snug, so consider sizing up or choosing another model if you have wider feet.Read more: Best Walking ShoesBest Cross-Training Shoe for StabilityYou can log lengthy miles and strength train in the latest iteration of the Brooks Adrenaline thanks to balanced cushioning and a moderate heel-to-toe drop. This shoe is a standout choice specifically for those looking for more stability from their cross trainer—in fact, our fitness editor says it's one of the best stability sneakers on the market right now. That's thanks to its "GuideRails technology," a proprietary midsole design featuring a soft center and firm sides, which supports the arch of the foot to combat inward rolling (overpronation)."These feel super comfortable and supportive for everyday life, traditional workouts, walks, easy runs—you name it," says Melissa Kendter, CPT, a functional strength coach. "I love that this shoe feels well cushioned but doesn't have a huge chunky sole, making them more appropriate for strength workouts than most running shoes."While the Adrenaline may not be the lightest or most cushioned option available, its stability, balance, and motion control capabilities make it a solid choice for those prioritizing support over explosiveness.Best Cross-Training Shoe For RunnersCross-trainers are supposed to combine different shoe attributes into one, and Nike took that literally with the Free Metcon 6 by taking the best parts of the Free running shoe and the Metcons. If you're a runner, chances are you already have a lineup of your favorite running shoes (or at least know what types of running shoes you prefer for different types of running workouts). This shoe isn't going to replace any of the old trusty running shoes, however, it's one you can reach for when your workout doesn't solely consist of running."This is perfect for my training workouts that consist of part speed run intervals and part strength training because of its combination of cushioning and stability," says Ashley Barnett, NASM, CPT. The flexibility, cushioning, snug fit, and lightness of the shoe makes it a great running shoe for shorter distances that also works well for strength and agility work. "It has good support and offers great cushion for jumping, strength, or mixed workouts." However, if you're looking for a shoe to wear for heavy lifts or the majority of weightlifting workouts, we recommend looking elsewhere.While it's always good to opt for a snug fit in running shoes, the Free Metcon 6 may be a little too tight for some people. We discovered that many among our testing group needed to size up by half to find a comfortable fit through the midfoot, though some reported that their true size worked fine. Given the varying shapes and sizes of feet, it's important to note that these shoes may run small, especially for those with wide feet or high arches.Best Cross-Training Shoe for CrossFitIt's impossible to discuss cross-training shoes without mentioning the Nike Metcon 9. WH Fitness editor Talene Appleton, NASM, says it's her all-time favorite shoe for CrossFit-style workouts, and for good reason.The Metcon 9 offers great comfort, cushioning, and most notably, a wide, flat heel that feels super solid and stable underfoot. A sturdy inner plate in the midsole facilitates smooth weight distribution during weightlifting and agility movements, helping you feel stable and ready to tackle any WOD. When it comes to explosive movements like short sprints and jumps, it provides reasonable flexibility and a springy midsole foam that delivers solid bounce and cushioning.This versatility makes the Metcon 9 an excellent choice for those who alternate between high-intensity workouts and heavy lifting. However, it falls short when it comes to running distances over a mile. It's great for CrossFit-style workouts that may include short sprints, but not the best option for more running-intensive classes like ����������’s, for example.Most Lightweight Cross-Training ShoesThese cross-trainers from New Balance are made with ultra-lightweight mesh fabric for increased ventilation and cushy foam for a customized fit. They're also designed with premium liners that allow you to go sock-free if you want to, though we recommend allowing the shoe to fully dry out after each use if you choose to go barefoot in them.Aside from its featherweight feel, our testers love how much room this shoe provides through the toe box. Appleton loves the Minimus Tr for activities such as Zumba, weightlifting, and even CrossFit-style workouts when she's craving more flexibility than traditional cross-trainers such as the Nike Metcon or Puma Fuse lines provide. However, if you typically opt for a highly cushioned shoe or one with substantial arch support, this shoe may feel too minimal for you.Best Cross-Training Shoe For Wide FeetAlthough this shoe isn't offered in a specific wide version, its design caters to wide feet better than most designated wide cross-training shoes we tested. "This is a great selection because it is anatomically foot-shaped, which gives your feet more space to sit naturally, and your toes space to provide proper balance and support," Kendter says. "They are made with a lower stack height, which provides grounding for better lifts, better movement, and more natural balance."While these are considered road running shoes, it's important to note that they might not be the best for long-distance running for most people due to the minimal cushioning. Still, they work well for those with wide feet whose cross-training regimen involves the occasional track workout, sprint, or recovery run. However, if you plan to do a lot of running in your cross-training shoes, the Brooks Adrenaline is a better choice.Best Cross-Training Shoes For HIITPowered by Reebok's bouncy and lightweight Energy Foam, the midsole of this shoe strikes a perfect harmony between responsiveness and stability that we love across a wide range of workouts.Crafted with a durable rubber outsole and a sleek low-profile design, the X4 is super versatile and supportive for movements in all directions. Its breathable yet robust upper, coupled with secure lacing, delivers an added layer of comfort and support."These shoes are the perfect shoe for HIIT workouts," says Appleton. "I love the way the shoes grip the floor, and they offer a very comfortable, solid base when doing squats under a heavy bar."However, the 7 millimeters drop might feel steep for some weightlifters, potentially compromising the ground feel compared to other options. Yet, this elevation can be advantageous for those who prefer added heel support (like Appleton!), bolstered by the shoe's TPU heel frame, which ensures stability during heavy lifts.One more caveat to note is the shoe's tight fit, prompting a recommendation from Appleton to size up by at least half a size.Most Comfortable Cross-Training ShoesFeaturing a lightweight and breathable upper, the Fuse 3.0 offers comfort, ventilation, and stability during even the most intense workouts. The sleek design incorporates Puma's FuseFIT, a knitted upper technology that provides a snug, adaptive, sock-like fit that molds to your foot, giving you the support you need for quick lateral movements as well as heavy lifting. We love this shoe so much, that we've even named it one of the Best Sneakers of 2024.The responsive midsole cushioning offers good energy return, but this shoe does lean more stable than responsive. From weightlifting to cardio, these shoes provide the versatility and support needed for diverse training modalities. “I can literally feel the floor through the shoe, which is extremely important for feeling stable while you’re throwing weights around,” adds WH associate health and fitness editor Addison Aloian.Meet The ExpertsMali Pelham, CPT, CFSC, is a personal trainer at Wattage in Chicago.Melissa Kendter, CPT, is a functional strength coach and owner of Melissa Kendter Fitness LLC.Ashley Barnett, NASM, a certified personal trainer based in Oklahoma City.What are cross-training shoes used for?If you're the type of exerciser who likes to try new workout classes, follow along with HIIT workout videos at home, or even test the waters at your local CrossFit gym, you need a reliable pair of cross-training shoes in your repertoire.This type of shoe is engineered to provide stability, support, and cushioning for activities such as weightlifting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), agility drills, plyometrics, and even some forms of cardio like short-distance running or sprinting. "Cross-training shoes should have sufficient traction and be able to grip the floor; they should not slip and slide on different surfaces," says Pelham.What is the difference between cross-training shoes and running shoes?Cross-training shoes are designed to provide more stability, traction, and support on different surfaces and when moving in different directions than running shoes. Running shoes, on the other hand, tend to be lighter, more flexible, and less durable than cross-training shoes.Can you walk or run in cross-training shoes?Yes, you can walk in cross-training shoes, and running short distances is fair game, too. However, relying on cross-training shoes as your primary option for running isn't advisable. They tend to be stiffer and lack the support and cushioning found in dedicated running shoes.Shop Other Sneakers We LoveBest Skechers For Walking | Best Motion Control Shoes | Best Treadmill Walking Shoes | Best Walking Shoes For Flat Feet | Best Walking Shoes For Women | Best Cross Training Sneakers | Best Running Shoes For Women | Best On Cloud Shoes For Walking | Most Comfortable Shoes | Walking Shoes For Women Over 50 | Best Nike Walking Shoes