10 Best Workout Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is designed for runners seeking a comfortable, neutral shoe that supports a smooth and enjoyable running experience. It uses a 3D Fit Print to offer a secure yet seamless fit, making it feel snug without being tight. The shoe provides soft cushioning with its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, which feels lightweight underfoot and helps absorb impact well. This cushioning, combined with the Segmented Crash Pad, promotes smooth transitions from heel to toe, making each step feel natural. Breathability is handled by an engineered air mesh upper that balances stretch and structure, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during workouts.

The outsole uses a new rubber compound called RoadTack, which includes recycled materials, and is designed to be both durable and lightweight, providing reliable traction on roads and gym floors. At 1.45 pounds, the shoe is not heavy, contributing to an easy stride and flexibility suitable for various activities like running, walking, and training. One point to consider is that while the shoe offers neutral support, it may not be ideal for those needing extra stability or specialized arch support. Also, though it excels on roads and similar surfaces, it might not be the best choice for trail running where more aggressive traction is needed.

This makes the Ghost 16 a great pick for runners and fitness enthusiasts who want a well-cushioned, breathable, and durable shoe that feels light and moves smoothly, especially if heavy-duty support is not required.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is designed with runners who need solid support and comfort in mind. Its standout feature is the GuideRails Holistic Support System, which helps keep your foot aligned and limits over-movement, making it a good choice if you want extra stability during your workouts. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning offers a soft yet responsive feel, giving lightweight comfort that adapts to how you run, which can be great for longer sessions. Breathability is addressed with an engineered air mesh upper that balances airflow and stretch, so your feet stay cool without losing support.

The shoe’s outsole is made of durable rubber aimed at smooth transitions, which benefits your stride and traction on various surfaces. At 1.5 pounds, it’s somewhat on the heavier side compared to other workout shoes, which may affect speed for some runners, but this weight supports its durable build and cushioning. Flexibility is average, leaning more toward stability, so if you prefer a very flexible shoe, this might feel a bit firm. Also, care requires hand washing, which may take extra effort to maintain.

This shoe is well-suited for women looking for dependable support, cushioning, and durability in their workout shoes, especially when stability and foot alignment are important factors.

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed to provide ample support and comfort for your workouts. With a leather upper, the shoe promises durability and a snug fit, although leather might not be the most breathable material, potentially leading to sweaty feet during intense workouts.

The ABZORB midsole cushioning is a standout feature, offering excellent shock absorption for those high-impact activities, ensuring your feet are well-protected and comfortable. Additionally, the premium PU comfort insert adds another layer of cushioning, making it suitable for prolonged wear. The rubber sole provides good traction which is essential for stability during various exercises.

However, the shoe's flexibility might be somewhat limited due to the leather construction and robust cushioning. This could be a consideration for exercises requiring a lot of foot movement. At 2.4 pounds, the shoes are somewhat heavy compared to other workout shoes, which might make them less ideal for activities like running where lighter footwear is preferred. The New Balance 608 V5 is a solid option for those prioritizing support and durability over breathability and weight in their workout shoes.