Skip to Content

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.

20 Workout Shoes That’ll Make You Actually Want to Hit the Gym

Stylish *and* sensible? Sold.

By Corinne Sullivan and Alexandra Ilyashov
best workout shoes for women
Edward Berthelot//Getty Images

Think any ol' sneaker will get the job done during your workout? Hate to break it to you, but that's sadly very much not the case. If you're ever attempted to exercise in a cheap pair of sneakers, you know that poorly-made workout shoes can leave you with blisters, shin splints, and a long list of other not-so-great injuries. While the best workout shoes can cost you quite a bit of $$$, 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." In terms of foot type and shape, Sutera notes 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, yes, those needs can absolutely include some fresh kicks for your hot girl walks. ) So, 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?

best all-weather workout shoes

On Cloudrunner Waterproof Running Shoe

On Cloudrunner Waterproof Running Shoe
best all-weather workout shoes

On Cloudrunner Waterproof Running Shoe

$160 at Nordstrom$160 at Zappos

For runs on rainy or slushy days, opt for this sleek pick: these supportive, well-cushioned kicks are waterproof. Can we also talk about this gorge color combo?! So. Good.

best workout shoes for trails

Altra Lone Peak 6 Trail-Running Shoes

Altra Lone Peak 6 Trail-Running Shoes
best workout shoes for trails

Altra Lone Peak 6 Trail-Running Shoes

Now 40% Off

These rugged sneakers protect the soles of your feet from getting jabbed by rocks, and can handle any kind of terrain (even at top speed!). The super-grippy outsoles provide tons of traction on slippery surfaces, and the quick-dry mesh uppers even have laser-cut holes so they'll dry out quickly if you're jogging through creeks or puddles, and you can hit the trails without worrying about getting tripped up by mud or sleet. Plus, they come in fun color combos, like this v cute teal and orange option.

most sustainable workout shoes

Veja Condor 2 Sneakers

Veja Condor 2 Sneakers
most sustainable workout shoes

Veja Condor 2 Sneakers

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
most stylish workout shoes

Off-White Odsy-1000 Sneaker

Off-White Odsy-1000 Sneaker
most stylish workout shoes

Off-White Odsy-1000 Sneaker

Now 60% Off

Fashionistas, this one's for you. These chunky Off-White stunners will totally elevating the most basic of workout 'fits. So, just prepare to get plenty of envious stares whenever you wear 'em. Oh, and did we mention they're on sale RN?!

best workout shoes for training

APL TechLoom Pro

APL TechLoom Pro
best workout shoes for training

APL TechLoom Pro

Credit: APL

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!!

most comfortable workout shoes

Hoka One One Clifton 8

Hoka One One Clifton 8
most comfortable workout shoes

Hoka One One Clifton 8

Now 20% Off
Credit: Hoka One One

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).

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
best post-workout shoes

PerryCo Shoes "The Prelude" Denim

PerryCo Shoes "The Prelude" Denim
best post-workout shoes

PerryCo Shoes "The Prelude" Denim

Need a stylish pair to wear to and from your fave shoe-free workout, like pilates or yoga? Here you go! These cute denim mid-top bbs from Black-owned sneaker brand PerryCo Shoes have luxe leather lining and just-chunky-enough white soles. They'll look so good with all your best athleisure 'fits.

most versatile workout shoes

Reebok Women's Zig Dynamica Sneaker

Reebok Women's Zig Dynamica Sneaker
most versatile workout shoes

Reebok Women's Zig Dynamica Sneaker

Now 25% Off

For a shoe that transitions perfectly from working out to going out, 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.

best workout shoes for bad knees

Asics Gel-Kayano 28

Asics Gel-Kayano 28
best workout shoes for bad knees

Asics Gel-Kayano 28

Now 50% Off
Credit: 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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
best workout shoes for support

Mizuno Wave Horizon 5

Mizuno Wave Horizon 5
best workout shoes for support

Mizuno Wave Horizon 5

Now 25% Off
Credit: Mizuno

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.

best overall workout shoes

On Cloud X Training Shoe

On Cloud X Training Shoe
best overall workout shoes

On Cloud X Training Shoe

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?

best washable workout shoes

Allbirds Tree Dashers

Allbirds Tree Dashers
best washable workout shoes

Allbirds Tree Dashers

Credit: 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. Go ahead and check out the t-h-o-u-s-a-n-d-s of glowing reviews raving about these beauts.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
best high top workout shoes

Puma Defy Mid Metal

Puma Defy Mid Metal
best high top workout shoes

Puma Defy Mid Metal

Now 35% Off
Credit: 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.

best workout shoes for walking

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes
best workout shoes for walking

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes

Credit: 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!

best waterproof workout shoes

Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes

Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes
best waterproof workout shoes

Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes

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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
best workout shoes for wide feet

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12
best workout shoes for wide feet

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v12

Now 43% Off

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.

best workout shoes for speed

Brooks Launch 9 Running Shoe

Brooks Launch 9 Running Shoe
best workout shoes for speed

Brooks Launch 9 Running Shoe

Now 36% Off

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 solids and even patterns.

best workout shoes for lifting

Under Armour UA HOVR™ Apex 3 Training Shoes

Under Armour UA HOVR™ Apex 3 Training Shoes
best workout shoes for lifting

Under Armour UA HOVR™ Apex 3 Training Shoes

Now 39% Off

For the ladies who lift: Let me direct your attention to this fab shoe. With 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.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
best workout shoes for running

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
best workout shoes for running

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2

Now 34% Off
Credit: 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.

best workout shoes for distance

Enda Lapatet

Enda Lapatet
best workout shoes for distance

Enda Lapatet

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.

Headshot of Corinne Sullivan
Corinne Sullivan
Editor

Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé. 

Watch Next
 
preview for All Sections Playlist - Cosmopolitan US

Pretty Fashion Finds to Shop

the summer i turned pretty

Lola Tung Wore This AE Skirt to the Eras Tour

beyonce renaissance tour merch amazon

ALERT: Beyoncé Dropped Ren Tour Merch on Amazon

close up shot of woman crossing the street and wearing a long fringed skirt and sandals

Pro Tip: Amazon Has the Cutest Summer Sandals

taylor swift

Found: Affordable Dupes for T. Swift’s Preppy ‘Fit

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Logo
twitter icon
youtube icon
facebook icon
instagram icon
pinterest icon
Hearst Young Women's Network - A Part of Hearst Digital Media

A Part of Hearst Digital Media

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

©2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Privacy NoticeCA Notice at CollectionYour CA Privacy Rights/Shine the LightDAA Industry Opt OutTerms of UseSite Map
Cookies Choices