Whether you’re into running, walking, cross-training or HIIT sessions, the best workout shoes for men can boost your performance. Our top overall pick, the Nike Free Metcon 5, provides stability, cushioning and flexibility for tackling most types of athletic activity. If you want to target specific areas of focus, we like the Brooks Ghost 15 for running and NoBull Men’s Trainer+ for weight lifting and circuit workouts. Ahead, we have more recommendations, based on your exact needs.
The best workout shoes for men combine stability, cushioning and support to help you power through ... [+] every movement. Baseball Shoes
At Forbes Vetted, we put all of our product picks through intense scrutiny, with first-hand reporting and expert input. Senior editor Kari Molvar oversees the fitness category, and has spent more than two decades analyzing footwear and logging countless miles. Here, the best workout shoes for men to optimize your comfort, budget and training.
Nike’s Metcon shoes have long been considered the gold standard for workout shoes, and this latest version builds upon the already-great features: The revamped upper is easier to slide into with a molded collar for your ankle, a wide heel gives you that same solid base for stability, and flexibility in the forefoot provides agility for moves like burpees, planks and sprints. Nike also added in rubber tread in high-wear areas for more traction, making this a well-rounded shoe for pretty much any athletic endeavor.
What the reviews say: “Very light,” comfortable shoe that fits “true to size” and provides “fantastic ankle support and heel support.” | Support: Wide heel, wide internal webbing | Cushion: Soft foam core
These days it’s hard to find a decent workout shoe for less than $140. Reebok’s well-priced and highly rated Flexagon Force 3 is an exception. The wide-fit shoes have a breathable mesh upper and soft midsole cushioning, plus flex grooves in the outsole give you the support and flexibility for deep lunges and quick pivots.
What the reviews say: “Easy to keep clean... affordable,” with “great airflow” but those who want a wider fit have to “loosen the laces all the way.” | Support: Mesh upper, EVA outsole with flex grooves and rubber heel | Cushion: Responsive midsole FuelFoam
This latest iteration in the Clifton series has been streamlined for maximum comfort. With its Eva foam midsole and plush heel, the Hoka Clifton 9 has an added 3mm in height for a lighter underfoot experience. Those with sensitive or recovering feet will appreciate the extra support, and those looking for a longer-lasting shoe will like the new Durabrasion rubber outsole that extends the longevity of this model.
What the reviews say: “A stylish design” with “exceptional” cushioning, however the dye on the “labels inside the tongue of both shoes” can “rub off on socks.” | Support: Durabrasion rubber outsole, MetaRocker stable geometry | Cushion: Symmetrical and lightweight
If you’re looking to enhance your everyday runs, the Brooks Ghost 15 has got you covered. Its engineered segmented crash pad was designed with ease of speed in mind, creating seamless landing to toe-off transitions that will have you gliding over even the rockiest of trails. Formulated from a unique plush, the Dna Loft v2 cushioning along with the air mesh upper add a bonus breathable feel.
What the reviews say: “Everything seems dialed... right in terms of design, materials, and construction.” Soles can “wear down significantly” after months of use. | Support: Soft midsole, segmented crash pad, mesh upper | Cushion: Lightweight Dna Loft v2 cushioning
The NoBull Men’s Trainer+ is reinforced with a SuperFabric one-piece upper so it can hold up to serious wear and tear from tough workouts. It has a low-drop heel to help with balance, a grippy outsole for traction and molded insole flexes for high-impact movements—making it a great shoe for cross training and HIIT workouts.
What the reviews say: “Extremely robust and durable” and “excellent for leg day,” but “sole is too high and not that stable” considering the “steep price.” | Support: SuperFabric one-piece upper, carbon rubber outsole, perforated microsuede tongue | Cushion: Molded, anatomical
The Ultrashot 3 is popular among professional ATP and WTA athletes who’ve been sporting the shoe on the court. Also a favorite among everyday pros, this pick was built with midsole that provides extra bounce and energy payoff, making fast pivots and sprints easier than ever. The outsole gives strong grip and traction for quick side-to-side movements.
What the reviews say: N/A (not listed) | Support: Synthetic leather upper, textile collar lining, rubber outsole | Cushion: Imeva Midsole
This newest model in the Gel Nimbus line was engineered with a unique rear-foot and forefoot gel technology to create softer landings; and it's 20g lighter than the previous shoe—which shows in just how soft and breathable it feels. It’s also constructed of sustainable Asics Lite rubber to enhance its longevity.
What the reviews say: “Cushioning is... good at isolating impact while still providing... forward momentum,” but sacrifices stability for a “plush spring.” | Support: Mesh upper, Asics Lite outsole rubber | Cushion: Gel technology, Flytefoam cushioning
If you want a workout shoe you can wear all day, the On Cloud 5 Push excels in the category. It has a fitted athletic upper and improved speed lacing system for extra stability versus other Cloud models, which makes it great for travel, standing and light aerobic activity. It’s also extremely lightweight and the Swiss-engineered CloudTec cushioning reacts to your steps, giving an extra “push” or lift-off as you move to reduce foot fatigue.
What the reviews say: N/A (not listed) | Support: Molded heel, closed-channel forefoot, Adapted Speedboard | Cushion: CloudTec Zero-Gravity foam
The Forbes Vetted team has dedicated countless time and effort to research the best workout shoes for men. When making our selections, we considered top footwear brands, features, styles and overall quality across different price points. We also factored in product reviews for quality assurance.
We’re always reviewing and testing notable products on the footwear market to ensure we're giving our readers the most relevant recommendations. Senior fashion editor Kari Molvar, who has overseen the editing of this article, regularly covers women's and men's fitness apparel and has more 20 years of experience in the market. Our expertise also extends to women's footwear, with our guides on the best workout shoes for women and the best tennis shoes for women.
We analyzed customer reviews, product awards and expert recommendations to determine the best workout shoes for men. When narrowing down our selections, we prioritized models that receive consistent positive reviews, provide ample support and have distinct features. We also included shoes from both popular and lesser-known brands for variety. Finally, we took into account size range, price and color options when refining our suggestions.
When shopping around for workout shoes, consider your current fitness routine, foot condition and range of motion. Choose an option that will not only prevent strain but enhance your regimen for the best results. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:
Running shoes should provide cushioning, arch support, breathability and soles that have traction for the types of surfaces you run on. HIIT workouts require flexible shoes that allow you to move with agility and also absorb impact. Weight training requires shoes with a durable structure: look for options that have soft cushioning for underfoot support and reinforced outer layers to minimize abrasion.
It's common to size up by a half or full size in workout shoes to allow room for foot swelling, especially among runners. For walking or more casual wear, on the other hand, go with your usual size or an even closer fit to provide extra stability.
When it comes to weight training, flatter soles are usually optimal for absorbing force from high-impact movements. For running, grippy soles can help you land better on uneven surfaces. Regardless of the workout, it's best to go for shoes with a mesh, cushy or breathable upper. Mesh in particular creates a lightweight feel and can also help prevent feet from sweating.
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I'm a tech journalist working and living in Gloucestershire, in the UK. I ran my own PC hardware review website for many years before transitioning into freelance writing. I've covered everything from the rise of Bitcoin and the encroachment of anti-privacy laws, to tabletop wargaming and advances in virtual reality. I've written, authored, edited, and copywritten for a broad array of the most prominent publications, including Digital Trends, Lifewire, PCGamer, The Inquirer, and KitGuru. I've also written two novels, and contributed backstory and dialogue to a handful of games. I am passionate about all the cutting-edge hardware inside and out the latest gadgets, PCs, and consoles, even if I can't always afford them.
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I am an accomplished author, journalist, and photographer who specializes in consumer technologies. Please visit my website at www.JasonRich.com and check out my eBook, \"iPhone 14 Pro Max Digital Photography\" (www.iPhoneBookShop.com). I am also the author of The Remote Worker's Handbook (Entrepreneur Books) that'll be published in March 2023.
I am an assistant editor for Forbes Vetted currently residing in Austin, Texas. I primarily cover deals and consumer shopping, and previously worked as a deals staff writer for Wirecutter. My byline has also appeared in the New York Times. I have over four years of experience writing in the e-commerce sphere, and spend most of my time scouring the web for the latest consumer news and best discounts.
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I'm a lifestyle writer and freelance editor based in the NYC area and the former executive editor of The Kitchn. As a freelance writer, I currently shift between food and parenting-based stories. My work has appeared in Forbes Vetted, as well as on Simply Recipes and the Food Network. My previous roles led to bylines in the New York Daily News, Time Out New York and on the Cooking Channel, Zagat and Today.com.
When I'm not at my desk, I'm typically in the kitchen testing out baked goods and family-friendly meals or exploring a new playground with my young son.
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I'm a tech journalist working and living in Gloucestershire, in the UK. I ran my own PC hardware review website for many years before transitioning into freelance writing. I've covered everything from the rise of Bitcoin and the encroachment of anti-privacy laws, to tabletop wargaming and advances in virtual reality. I've written, authored, edited, and copywritten for a broad array of the most prominent publications, including Digital Trends, Lifewire, PCGamer, The Inquirer, and KitGuru. I've also written two novels, and contributed backstory and dialogue to a handful of games. I am passionate about all the cutting-edge hardware inside and out the latest gadgets, PCs, and consoles, even if I can't always afford them.
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I'm a Cincinnati-based freelance journalist, content marketing writer, copywriter, and editor focusing on health and wellness, parenting, real estate, business, education, and lifestyle. Away from the keyboard, I'm also mom to four sons under age 7, all of whom keep things chaotic, fun and interesting. For over a decade I've been helping publications and companies connect with readers and bring high-quality information and research to them in a relatable voice. I've been published in the Washington Post, Huffington Post, Glamour, Shape, Today's Parent, Reader's Digest, Parents, Women's Health and Insider.
I have a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications/Journalism, both from Miami University. I also spent about 10 years teaching high school, specializing in media education. To read more of my work or to connect, check out my website or social media on Twitter, Instagram, or Linked In.
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