The Best Cross Training Shoe For 2024

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
New Balance Men's Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: New Balance Men's Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

"The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer combines a sleek look with superior comfort. With a leather upper, premium PU comfort insert, and ABZORB midsole cushioning, this shoe provides the cushioned support your feet need." Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer

"When you're looking for a shoe that is comfortable and can stand up to the rigors of your lifestyle, Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer, Sleet, 7 M US is the perfect option for you. Featuring a flexible rubber sole that is durable and supportive where you need it most, this shoe will provide relief from the everyday stress of working out." Read Review

3. Best For Athletic: Reebok Men's Nano X Cross Trainer

"Reebok Men's Nano X Cross Trainer Running Shoes are built to respond and adapt to your every move. Feel the lightweight EVA foam cushioning, firm grip, and gliding transition with these symbolic gym hightops designed for phenomenal CrossFit and enduring functional fitness." Read Review

4. Best Comfortable: Ryka Women's Vida RZX

"RYKA Women's Vida Rzx Cross-Training Shoe is designed for those that love to keep moving. Re-zorb high impact cushion in the heel & ultra flex forefoot; the best in cushioning and flexibility. Anatomical precise-return footbed for a perfect fit." Read Review

Cross-training is an activity where you pull different muscles and do cardio workouts to stimulate your body. Cross-training can be done on surfaces like a treadmill, a bike, a rowing machine, or even an elliptical machine. Cross-training is an effective way to balance the workload between your upper and lower body.

You can also do cross-training activities to increase endurance, improve agility, and simultaneously build muscle strength in different areas of your body. They are referred to as “the best cross training shoe.” In case you haven’t heard about it yet, cross-training is the perfect way to incorporate activities other than running into your regular running program and improve your overall fitness simultaneously. When you cross-train, you target muscles not usually used while running by doing exercises like hiking, swimming, rowing, etc. Here is everything you need to know about Cross Training.

Our experts have determined the models that would be the most excellent fit for your requirements, specifically our New Balance Men's Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, after doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time. Consider Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions are worth considering, and we've developed a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Compare

TOP Choice #1 New Balance Men's Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
Our Score:
9.8
New Balance

Leather upper

Premium PU comfort insert

ABZORB midsole cushioning aids in absorbing forceful impacts

TOP Choice #2 Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer
Our Score:
9.7
Ryka

MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape with a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning

OUTSOLE: Ergonomically-shaped rubber sole for extra durability where you need it most + Pivot Point for smooth and easy turns

PERFORMANCE TECH: N-Gage energy return foam for shape retention + cushioning on impact

BEST FOR: Dance fitness + Low-impact workouts

MATERIALS: Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays for extra durability + Padded heel for extra cushioning

TOP Choice #3 Reebok Men's Nano X Cross Trainer
Our Score:
9.5
Reebok

EFFICIENT FOOT SUPPORT: Feel the lightweight EVA foam cushioning, firm grip, and gliding transition with these symbolic gym hightops designed for phenomenal CrossFit and enduring functional fitness

COMFORTABLE AND EXCEPTIONAL DESIGN: These Iconic training sneakers with Flexweave woven textile upper provide resilient stretch and targeted support at key performance areas for powerful maneuverability making them perfect for your training needs

HIGH-PERFORMANCE SPORTS FOOTWEAR: These joggers for men are ideal for high intensity workouts, cardio, lifting sessions, climbing, and running like a ninja

DURABLE AND STURDY MATERIAL: These cross trainer running shoes for men with lightweight EVA foam cushioning provide resilient performance, elevated stability, and comfort for agile fitness that keep you going all day long

4 Ryka Women's Vida RZX
Our Score:
9.3
Ryka

Re-zorb high impact cushion in the heel & ultra flex forefoot; the best in cushioning and flexibility.

Anatomical precise-return footbed.

5 Xero Shoes Men's Prio Cross Training Shoe
Our Score:
9.2
Xero Shoes

COMFORTABLE, FOR-EVERYTHING SHOE - Whether you’re out on a run, trying out a new trail, hitting the gym, or toeing a slackline, you’ll love the Prio’s combination of freedom and protection

GET THE RIGHT FIT with FREE Domestic Exchanges - This shoe runs 'true to size." If for any reason that's not the case for you, contact us for a free domestic exchange of your 'like-new' shoe

ULTRA-THIN BAREFOOT DESIGN - Wear with or without socks. The optional 2mm insole lets you have more or less of a “barefoot feel” depending on your mood

VEGAN FRIENDLY - Xero Shoes believes in promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles which is why the Prio is made with zero animal products

XERO DROP SOLE FOR PERFECT POSTURE - The Xero Drop sole offers a non-elevated heel and is low-to-the-ground - this allows proper posture, balance, and agility for all-round performance

Regular fit

Stretch mesh upper with TPU reinforced midfoot

Light and breathable feel

Lace closure

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Our whole stock comes directly from brands and vendors who deals officially the products in our region.

Size picking

Use the size charts below to help you determine the perfect fit for many of the brands and styles that we sell. If your measurements fall in between, we recommend that you order the next larger size. You may also refer to the actual brand website for their size chart.

THE PERFECT TOOL FOR SERIOUS TRAINERS AND FUNCTIONAL ATHELETES

Distinctive rope traction lugs in the arch.

Updated panel lacing system with a hook+loop closure system with new softer feel. Perfect for aggressive, lateral movements. XS Trek rubber compound for all around performance both indoor and outdoor.

Upper construction specifically designed for heavy training, focused on durability and performance.

Good level of ground feel and protection with good toe articulation for great balance and active stability

GET THE RIGHT FIT with FREE Domestic Exchanges - This shoe runs 'true to size." If for any reason that's not the case for you, contact us for a free domestic exchange of your 'like-new' shoe

ULTRA-THIN BAREFOOT DESIGN - Wear with or without socks. The optional 2mm insole lets you have more or less of a “barefoot feel” depending on your mood

COMFORTABLE, FOR-EVERYTHING SHOE - Whether you’re out on a run, trying out a new trail, hitting the gym, or toeing a slackline, you’ll love the Prio’s combination of freedom and protection

VEGAN FRIENDLY - Xero Shoes believes in promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles which is why the Prio is made with zero animal products

XERO DROP SOLE FOR PERFECT POSTURE - The Xero Drop sole offers a non-elevated heel and is low-to-the-ground - this allows proper posture, balance, and agility for all-round performance

Get Comfortable: Signature Altra Balanced Cushioning and FootShape toe boxes allow your toes to spread and encourages proper, low-impact form

Push Yourself: InnerFlex midsole technology ensures increased flexibility and performance

Stay Focused: Engineered mesh uppers are light, breathable and ready for anything

What to Look For in a best cross training shoe?

Sometimes, purchasing a product can draw some difficulties for shoppers, and that's why you shouldn't waste your time on unreliable sources of information. A variety of variables impact the best cross training shoe, along with all of the ones listed below. The formative assessment varies depending on the types and functions of the product. 

We will give you some purchase guides to help you with your selection proc in the following sectors. Continue reading to learn about what you should look for when looking for the best cross training shoe: 

Outsole And Midsole

Cross-training shoe midsoles and outsole differ because they are firmer. The layer of material in the midsole between the shoes' bottom and their outer structure is called the "midsole". Cross-trainers typically combine TPU and a bit firmer rubber. A few cross-trainers include a medial divot which can extend upwards and support movements such as rope climbs.

Durable Outer

The best sneakers are one you don't need to purchase multiple pairs of each year. You can tear or fragile material if it is exposed to extreme weather. Or if the material has been subject to a prolonged workout.
Most shoe manufacturers will provide information about what the outer layers of the shoes are made from. Sometimes, however, it may be necessary for you to click on the "More Info" button or "Specs" option to see the details.

Toebox

Everything from the edge of the shoe to the back of the eyelets. A reinforced toe bumper is often used to protect your toes against stubbing in trail shoes.
The key thing to look out for is a toebox which doesn't get in the way. This allows your feet to naturally flex and expand without being restricted or rubbing.

Ankle Collar

A wrap around the opening of your shoe that keeps the heel down. Some shoes are made with thick padding and others more dependent on the form.
The things to watch for: Watch out for slipping heels, how padding interrelates with bones at your ankles and if the curve in the back causes irritation to your Achilles tendon.

Saddle

A reinforced region around the instep (the area of the foot that lies between the ball and ankle) is what allows the shoes to stay on the foot. A variety of overlays and lacing options have been developed by designers to adapt the saddle to each foot's needs.
Careful what you look at: Make sure to pay close attention to how your saddle fits your foot.

Heel Cushioning

This midsole material was designed to minimize the effects of forefoot load and push off. Although body mechanics can provide some cushioning above the ankle and foot structures, cushioning in the forefoot shoes protects them. These new materials and designs promise that your foot can be protected and propelled.
Look for: The right balance of cushioning, stability and ground feeling. Pay attention to where the shoe is able to touch the ground and if it rolls smoothly into your stride.

Upper

Everything that is not the sole. These models used to be made using layers of fabric or mesh and were then sewn together and glued. Today, knitting and 3D-printed knits are being used more often to create single-piece uppers which stretch and support the wrong places.
How to find it: A shoe that's shaped just like your foot. It should be smooth where it touches.

Stabilizing Features

The designers employ a range of technologies to help keep your foot in balance. Most people are fine without pronation correction. However, control and stability devices can be helpful for runners to maintain their desired movement patterns.
What you should look for: Shoes that allow your foot to move freely and naturally, while providing support but not correction.

FAQs

Is It OK To Run In Cross Training Shoes?

It's a yes answer. If you are a runner who doesn't use other training methods and runs alone, running shoes might be best for you. However, cross-trainers work fine for those who use the shoes to run or sprint quickly.

What Is The Difference Between A Running Shoe And A Cross-Training Shoe?

A running shoe was specifically developed to provide protection for your feet during running. The same components may be found in cross-trainers, but it is designed to support you while performing other moves.

Are Cross-Training Shoes Good For Lifting?

For recreational weightlifting, a good cross-training shoe can do the trick. But if weightlifting competitions are your aim, you might want to purchase a weightlifting shoes. Certain cross-training footwear is better suited to weightlifting than others. In the end, the shoe with the best fit for your foot should be the one that you buy.

How Often Should You Replace Your Cross Training Shoes?

It will depend on how much you train and your movements, but generally you need to replace crosstrainers about every 80-100 hours.
You will notice a loss of support in your shoes even before any physical wear is apparent. But if these signs are present, it's important to immediately replace your shoes.
Do not wait for your Cross-Training Shoes to be replaced. This can lead to a worsening of injuries.

What Are The Best Cross Training Shoes For Heavy People?

The feet of people who weigh more often are wider. A pair of shoes should have a large-toe box to suit your needs. If you experience heel pain, make sure to get a pair of shoes that offer plenty of cushioning. Make sure your midsole has enough stability so you can move freely.

What Is The Difference Between A Walking Shoe And A Cross Trainer?

Walkers are typically more flexible, have thinner soles and provide less support at the ankle than cross-training footwear. While cross-trainers offer more comfort, walking shoes are typically only equipped with cushion in the heel. While cross-training shoes are great for strolling in the park, they should be avoided for any HIIT training.

What Is A Cross-Training Shoe For?

A cross-training shoe, as the name implies, is a shoe you can wear across many types of training. You can use them for weightlifting, CrossFit and other activities without needing to change between specialty shoes.

What Type Of Shoe Is Best For CrossFit?

CrossFit Cross trainers that are best for CrossFit have a thicker outsole and a firmer middle to help support their weight. They will have an outer shell construction that is durable and resistant to abrasions as well as wear and tear due to friction with the ground and rope climbs.

Generally, new information is continuously included into of best cross training shoe. Visit our sites for revisions and improvements regularly.

You now have a far better knowledge of how to purchase the best cross training shoe on the market. Hopefully, we've supplied you with enough information to help you make an informed decision. We'll see you in the following article.


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About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

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