11 Best Pairs of Cross Training Shoes, Tested by Trainers and Editors

The Nike Free Metcon 6 continues the legacy of its line, beloved in CrossFit boxes for its versatility and performance. Nike revamped its reliable Metcon line, making it lighter, more flexible, and incredibly breathable. These shoes are built for versatility—you can lift 350 pounds, grunt through burpees, and then hop on the treadmill, all without your feet sending out an SOS.

“The Free Metcons are tuned more to running than the standard Metcons, which makes them great for group classes and a go-to for any training that involves basic lateral movement,” says Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. And while they’re not ideal for max deadlifts or squats, “they offer a passable base for lighter-weight versions of those moves done for higher reps, like goblet squats,” says Samuel.

Now, let’s talk about the drawbacks. Rope climbs? Forget it. This mesh will rip faster than your patience in rush-hour traffic. And if you’re throwing 400 pounds on the bar, you’ll want something more stable—this isn’t a shoe for max-out day. But man, it’s light. Like, “Did I even put my shoes on?” light. Nike nailed the balance of flexibility and stability, so you can go from lunges to sprints without swapping shoes.

The Reebok Nano X4 is like that guy at the gym who’s good at everything—lifting, running, jumping—but doesn’t brag about it. This shoe does it all: It’s light, breathable, and stable enough to make you feel like a pro, even if you’re just trying to survive leg day. And can we talk about the gusseted tongue? Finally, no more fixing your shoes mid-burpee. Who has time for that?

Durability? No doubt about it. You can drag your toes, bump into every piece of equipment in the gym, and even take these bad boys on concrete. They’ll hold up better than your buddy’s excuses for skipping cardio. The grip? It’s like the shoe has suction cups—solid on gym floors, mats, or platforms.

Now, if you’re deadlifting 500 lbs or have wider feet, we recommend investing in a dedicated weightlifting shoe. But for everything else—box jumps, lunges, and even a quick treadmill run—these shoes are in their element. At 11.7 oz, they’re light but still stable, and the 7 mm heel-to-toe drop keeps your ankles happy. The Nano X4 is the shoe that gets it done without showing off. A real workhorse in a sea of wannabes.

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Nobull has generated a cult following in the trainer space thanks to the tough, minimalist-inspired designs. These kicks do exactly what they’re supposed to: Crush CrossFit, hold up during rope climbs, and look good enough to wear when you’re running errands. The upper on these trainers is made with a one-piece SuperFabric that’s insanely strong and abrasion resistant. And for the outsole, they have a rubber lug pattern that provides smooth traction and flexibility both indoors and outdoors.

“The wider toebox allows for greater stability. I personally enjoy using them when training Olympic lifts,” says Associate Health and Fitness Editor Cori Ritchey, C.S.C.S. That SuperFabric upper? Heck, it’s practically bulletproof. We tried to test its durability by dragging our toes on concrete and deliberately kicking the squat rack. The shoe held up perfectly; however, we did get some strange looks from other gymgoers.

During testing, we found their support and responsive cushioning top-notch, though there’s a brief break-in period. These kicks are perfect for high-intensity workouts like CrossFit, offering durability and performance in one package. The seamless, breathable upper and grippy outsole make them versatile for a range of activities, from heavy lifts to plyometrics.

The minimalist design might not suit everyone, but if you’re serious about your training, these shoes deliver. They are pricier than other options, but you’re investing in durability and “wear it anywhere” vibe. Tough, versatile, and ready for action—the Nobull Outwork Trainers have earned their spot in our gym bag.

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The Hoka Kawana 2 is like your buddy who shows up for everything—walks, jogs, gym sessions—but draws the line at sprints. This shoe’s got comfort down to a science: Plush cushioning, a breathable upper, and a heel so padded it feels like a luxury pillow for your feet. And let’s talk about the tongue—it’s gusseted now, which means it stays in place like it’s been Velcroed down. No more adjusting mid-jog.

But let’s be honest: If you’re a hardcore runner looking for bounce or speed, these might not be your thing. The EVA midsole is solid, but it’s not exactly putting a spring in your step. And the toebox? It’s narrow. If you’ve got wide feet, you’re going to feel like you’re stuffing a sleeping bag into its case. Traction? Not winning awards there either.

That said, for walks, casual runs, or the gym, the Kawana 2 is a solid go-to. It’s comfy, stable, and durable enough for everyday wear. Plus, with that cushy tongue and easy-on heel loop, slipping these on feels like a treat. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable—like the shoes version of the gym-desk attendant who always has a spare phone charger.

The Hoka Solimar ditches the usual bulky Hoka vibe for a leaner, sleeker look while keeping the performance you expect. Our testers agree that it handles gym workouts, short runs, and casual city strolls with ease. At just 8.2 oz, the Solimar is lightweight yet stable, with a knit upper that keeps your feet cool no matter how intense things get.

The heel padding? It’s like walking on a cloud, and the grip is solid—even on wet pavement. Plus, if the snug fit of the toe box isn’t your thing, these come in a wide version to keep everyone happy. Now, if you’re looking for plush cushioning or shoes for long-distance running, these might not be it. The firm midsole is perfect for versatility but doesn’t deliver the soft ride Hoka fans might expect.

The Solimar is a versatile, stylish cross-trainer that works for shorter runs and light lifting sessions. With a wide option available, it’s got something for everyone—just don’t expect it to feel like your old marshmallow Hokas.

R.A.D shoes? Never heard of them, right? Listen, these aren’t Nike or Reebok. Not even NoBull. It’s like the new kid at the gym who shows up out of nowhere and cranks out 225-pounds on the bench press for 10 reps like it’s no biggie. The R.A.D Ones debuted at Wodapalooza—yes, that’s a real name—and these shoes aren’t just here to play; they’re here to do it all.

“I’ve deadlifted and squatted big weights and performed plyometrics wearing the lightweight kicks. The Swell Foam midsole feels just right,” says Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM. The 6mm drop feels natural for strong pulls, and the grip? So good you could stop mid-agility drill like a ninja. And let’s talk sustainability: They’re made with sugar cane foam, so not only do they perform, but they also make you feel good about making a better choice for the planet.

Some large-footed testers commented that this model’s toe box is snug. If your feet lean wide or you like your toes to stretch out like they’re at a yoga class, these might not be your jam; however, thinner socks, like Bombas Men’s Running Half Calf Socks can help you squeeze out a little extra room. These kicks deliver stability for squats, bounce for plyos, and comfort for walking around Costco (without using the cart for support).

At $150, they’re an investment, but if you’re looking for a shoe that handles everything but spotting your bench press, the R.A.D Ones are worth it.

The On Cloudpulse is On’s first shot at a training shoe, and it’s ready to put in the work—at least for the right activities. “On is known best for its runners, but the brand’s first pair of training kicks can stand up to most basic workouts,” says Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM. These kicks are perfect for HIIT and cardio—they’ve got this CloudTec cushioning that feels like tiny trampolines under your feet. And the recycled mesh upper? It keeps things cool even when you’re sweating like crazy in a group class.

At 11.3 oz, the Cloudpulse is lightweight and versatile, making it perfect for group fitness classes or workouts that take you from cardio to strength training. The accommodating toe box ensures natural toe splay for stability during bodyweight and moderate lifts. But for heavy lifting? “You’ll be better served reaching for a pair with a lower drop for heavyweight squats or deadlifts,” says Williams.

While the grippy outsole and lateral support are impressive, the toebox mesh isn’t built for rough-and-tumble workouts like rope climbs. At $150, they’re great for cardio lovers and HIIT warriors but won’t cut it for serious lifters.

The GoRuck Ballistic Trainer isn’t just a shoe; it’s like the overachiever in gym class—built for everything and pretty good at most of it. Made by the same crew that told us to strap on a 50-pound backpack and “enjoy” a long walk, this trainer combines gym-ready versatility with rucking durability.

“These stripped-down trainers aren’t fancy, but they’re reliable and do the job with a comfortable upper and durable materials,” says Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM. And he’s right. With an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, these kicks hit the sweet spot: Stable enough for lifting, cushy enough for short sprints, and tough enough to survive your most brutal workout. The CORDURA upper isn’t just durable; it’s practically armor for your feet.

But let’s be honest, if your cardio routine includes half-marathons, these aren’t your shoes. They’re made for explosive moves like box jumps, not long-distance runs. Where they truly excel is under heavy weight. Deadlifts? Squats? They’re ready for the challenge.

Those who are on the barefoot wave (or are looking to join) will love this pair from Vivobarefoot. These kicks are the epitome of minimalism, perfect for both running and training. Weighing just 232g per shoe, they’re incredibly lightweight and versatile.

These will help your feet move in a natural way when training, all while staying incredibly lightweight. We also love the fact they roll up into themselves, making them super easy to pack when traveling.

However, the minimalist design may not suit everyone’s preferences, especially if you’re used to more cushioned footwear. Additionally, the thinner upper and flatter tread pattern might take some getting used to.

The Move Trainer, While on Earth’s first shoe, looks like a regular lifestyle shoe that is always down for a workout. Founded by 5x CrossFit Games champion Mat Fraser and Todd Melaney, a veteran of the sports shoe indjustry, the Move Trainer was designed for the everyday athlete.

“If I am going to hit a cross training session then meet up with friends after, and I can only bring one pair of shoes, the Move Trainer is my go-to pick,” says Fitness and Commerce Editor Charles Thorp, NASM. With its roomy toe box and dense, supportive midsole, it’s ideal for general gym workouts, light runs, and all-day wear. These kicks shine in everyday versatility, whether you’re walking the dog or traveling.

That said, they’re not built for super-heavy lifting. The higher stack height and firmer construction might leave powerlifters and minimalist fans wanting more. Still, for a debut effort, While on Earth delivers a trainer that balances form and function beautifully. If you’re after a reliable all-rounder with style, the Move Trainer won’t disappoint.

If you’re into recreational training, HIIT workouts, or just need a solid pair of kicks for day-to-day wear, these UAs have got you covered. They’re not tailored to one specific niche, but work well for recreational training, HIIT workouts, and athletic-focused activities.

However, the plastic TPU tabs on the sides might cause the laces to wear down faster over time (which is more of a durability concern than a performance issue, and not a huge deal). The non-removable insole also means you’re missing out on specialized/customized support, though the shoe still holds up well in terms of support and responsiveness

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How Often Should I Cross Train?

According to Thieme, you should stray from your dominant training focus at least once (and preferably twice) per week to mix things up and also help you recover. “Not only can the practice enhance your recovery, but it can also help improve a skill in which nearly everyone falls short in one way or another: mobility,” says Thieme.