10 Best gym shoes for men 2026 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 is a solid choice for men looking for comfortable gym shoes suitable for various activities. It offers a snug and supportive fit thanks to its leather upper and dual-density collar foam, which also helps reduce ankle irritation during long wear. The ABZORB midsole technology and lightweight EVA foam provide good cushioning that absorbs impact well, making these shoes comfortable for all-day use without feeling too heavy—they weigh about 14 ounces, which is moderate for cross trainers.

Stability is enhanced by an internal midsole shank, giving solid support for different movements in the gym. However, the leather upper, while durable and stylish, limits breathability compared to mesh options, so your feet might feel warmer during intense workouts. Traction is reliable due to the rubber sole with flex grooves, helping prevent slips on common gym surfaces. These shoes have a low-top design and a moderate arch, fitting true to size, and are particularly suited for those with neutral arches.

One downside is that they are not water resistant and lack adjustable features beyond laces, which could affect fit for some users. For those seeking a durable, comfortable, and stable gym shoe with classic styling and moderate cushioning, the New Balance 608 V5 is a dependable pick, especially if breathability is not the top priority.

The Skechers Men's Summits High Range Slip-in Sneaker offers a convenient hands-free design that makes putting on and taking off easy, which is great if you want quick and hassle-free gym shoes. The exclusive heel pillow helps keep your foot securely in place, adding to the support and stability you need during workouts. The Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole provides soft cushioning, making these shoes comfortable for extended wear. Made with 100% vegan materials and being machine washable, they’re an appealing choice for those who prefer eco-friendly products and easy cleaning.

The slip-in style might not deliver as much tight fit or ankle support as traditional laced gym shoes, which could be a drawback if you do intense or lateral movements often. Breathability may also be limited compared to mesh shoes, so your feet might feel warmer during heavy exercise. The synthetic rubber sole should offer decent traction on gym floors, though specific tread details are not provided.

These sneakers are a solid pick for casual gym-goers or anyone valuing comfort, easy wear, and vegan materials, but they might fall short for those needing extra support or breathability for more demanding workouts.

The Under Armour Men's Charged Surge 4 is designed with gym-goers in mind, especially those who value a balance between cushioning and flexibility, making it suitable for running and other athletic activities. It features a breathable mesh upper combined with synthetic overlays that provide both good ventilation and added support, which helps keep your feet cool during workouts. Comfort is a strong point here, thanks to an enhanced cushioning around the ankle collar and the Deluxe Comfort System sockliner that molds to your foot for a snug fit. The midsole uses Charged Cushioning technology which offers moderate cushioning that is responsive and durable enough for all-day use. In terms of support and stability, the shoe is categorized as neutral, balancing flexibility with enough support for most gym activities but may not be ideal for those who need extra arch support or motion control.

Its rubber outsole delivers solid traction and good durability, with flexibility near the toe area to aid natural foot movement. At around 10 ounces, the shoe is relatively lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during longer sessions. One thing to note is that these shoes are not water-resistant, so they might not be the best choice for wet environments. Also, while the cushioning is comfortable, it’s moderate rather than plush, so those preferring very soft soles might want to consider alternatives. The Under Armour Charged Surge 4 fits true to size and offers a reliable option for men looking for breathable, supportive, and reasonably lightweight gym shoes that perform well in running and general sports activities.