The Best Training Shoes for Women 2023
Gym trainers for crushing your cardio, weightlifting, HIIT, and more.
Whether you’re just getting started on your training journey or a savvy gym-goer, nothing derails a workout quicker than subpar or ineffectual footwear.
Shoes that pinch (too tight) or rub you the wrong way (too loose) not only ruin your focus but can actually be quite painful. Blistering, abrasions, or an ankle sprain will lead to lost workouts and hampered progression.
Sometimes these discomforts are the result of sizing your shoe incorrectly but most often it’s an overall poor shoe design and construction that’s the culprit.
So, if you’re chasing big training goals or you simply don’t want to wind up sidelined with injury, it’s definitely worthwhile to invest in a high-quality pair of training shoes.
Here, we’ve put together a list of the best women’s training shoes for 2023.
These picks feature versatile gym trainers from today’s top athletic brands, so that you know you’re receiving high-quality shoes designed and tested for peak athletic performance.
Which Shoes Are Best for Working Out?
There’s no shortage of workout styles available today. From varying degrees of intensity to variations in location, such as a home, gym, and outdoor workouts.
And if you’ve taken even a cursory glance at what’s currently available for training shoes, you know there’s no shortage of options to match. In fact, the volume of options and brands can be a bit overwhelming.
So, let’s begin with the basics. What makes for a good workout shoe?
For starters, there are a few widely applicable features that you can look for in a good training shoe.
Comfort and support around the ankle, a durable outsole with good traction, and a secure and lightweight design are all beneficial features to have in a training shoe.
Note, however, that certain training shoes have specialty designs intended to target or address the impact and movement of specific activities.
So, keep this and your own workout style in mind when browsing shoe options.
If you only do a single style of workout with specific movements, you likely can narrow in on a shoe that’s specifically designed for that activity.
For example, if you’re a long-distance runner, the shoes you wear running are designed to handle force and foot striking, which likely wouldn’t make for an ideal weightlifting shoe where the emphasis is placed on stability.
But if you’re someone that throws variety into their workouts or if you tend to do workouts that include a variety of movements, you’ll want a versatile training shoe that is designed to handle a good mix of movements (running, jumping, lifting, etc.).
Remember, the right pair of gym trainers should be doing more than just helping you get through a workout. They should actually boost your overall performance and endurance.
Also, don’t forget that no matter how great your training shoes may be, there always comes a time when replacement is necessary.
Shoes that wear down and lose support can result in painful injury, such as plantar fasciitis, ankle sprain, and more.
So, if your training shoes have become flimsy and fold up easily, it’s time to replace them!
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. APL TechLoom Tracer
The APL TechLoom Tracer is a versatile low top training shoe that prioritizes performance and works great for any level of workout intensity. This training shoe offers extra comfort around the ankle with a molded lycra collar and a sculpted heel for motion.
Shop at APL: APL TechLoom Tracer
APL’s TechLoom Tracer utilizes a non-stretch construction that centers your foot and optimizes lateral stability. This shoe uses low-profile cushioning and rebound, rubber traction pads for durability, and a new lacing system to keep you locked in. Available in multiple colors and designs.
2. APL TechLoom Bliss
The APL TechLoom Bliss is an incredibly lightweight shoe that offers the perfect blend of performance and luxurious design. This training shoe features a stylish slip-on design with a custom elastic strap for extra comfort and an easy on/off.
Shop at APL: APL TechLoom Bliss
APL’s TechLoom Bliss features patented Propelium technology that maximizes energy generation, midsole structure, and a durable rubber outsole with a forefoot crash pad. This versatile shoe is great for all aspects of your life and is available in multiple colors and designs.
3. Nike Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes
The Nike Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes combine stability with flexible Nike Free technology to create Nike’s highest rated women’s training shoe. These training shoes have an updated chain-link mesh that cools, supports, and flexes with your foot.
Shop at Nike: Nike Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes
Nike’s Free Metcon 4 Training Shoes utilize a wide heel for a solid lifting base and soft foam cushioning for your foot. These training shoes have stretch around the ankle for natural movements and durable rubber tread in high-wear areas for traction.
4. Nike Metcon 8 Training Shoes
The Nike Metcon 8 Training Shoes are designed for weight training with a cushioned Nike React foam base that’s lightweight, springy, and ready to handle high-intensity cardio. These training shoes feature a breathable upper and a lock down tab for the laces to eliminate distraction.
Shop at Nike: Nike Metcon 8 Training Shoes
Nike’s Metcon 8 Training Shoes have grippy rubber tread that extends up the arch for traction in all directions and on all surfaces. These training shoes feature a wide and flat heel for stability and grooves in the sole for natural foot bend.
5. Nike Air Max Bella TR 5
The Nike Air Max Bella TR 5 combines stylish and bouncy Max Air cushioning with a stabilizing flat sole optimized for weight training. This training shoe features raised edging to brace your foot during lateral movement and breathable woven fabric for comfort.
Shop at Nike: Nike Air Max Bella TR 5
Nike’s Air Max Bella TR 5 provides updated stability at the midfoot and a crossover strap for a secure fit. This training shoe has a flat sole with rubber tread for improved grip and a synthetic leather heel wrap for additional support.
6. Adidas Edge Lux Shoes
The Adidas Edge Lux Shoes feature a lightweight and flexible Bounce midsole to keep you active and a padded Geofit collar to lock you in. These training shoes have a women’s specific fit and a molded sockliner for extra comfort.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Edge Lux Shoes
Adidas’ Edge Lux Shoes have a sleek and stylish design that’s available in multiple colors and designs. These training shoes have a durable rubber outsole and a classic lace closure.
7. Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Training Shoes
The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Training Shoes feature an incredibly soft Cloudfoam cushioned midsole and memory foam sockliner. These training shoes have a cool heritage Adidas vibe and versatile performance design.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Training Shoes
Adidas’ Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Training Shoes are a highly rated and very popular Adidas trainer that’s available in many colors and designs. These training shoes utilize high-performance Primegreen material, a synthetic outsole, and a classic lace closure.
8. Adidas Dropset Trainers
The Adidas Dropset Trainers feature a stiff heel that adds stability when you’re lifting and a soft forefoot that offers flexibility for quick movements and high-intensity cardio. These training shoes utilize a series of recycled materials for an environmentally friendly construction.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Dropset Trainers
Adidas’ Dropset Trainers offer a distraction-free feel with a wide fit and dual-density midsole for extra comfort. These versatile training shoes were designed with input from athletes across the world of sports and built to handle tough workouts.
9. Lululemon Strongfeel Training Shoes
The Lululemon Strongfeel Training Shoes feature a high-performance training design for explosive and dynamic movements. These training shoes have a lightweight and supportive upper to keep your foot stable and secure.
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Strongfeel Training Shoes
Lululemon’s Strongfeel Training Shoes utilize low-profile cushioning and durable multi-directional traction for a stable base during workouts. These training shoes are specifically designed for the female foot and offer a 30-day full refund trial.
10. Lululemon Chargefeel Mid Workout Shoes
The Lululemon Chargefeel Mid Workout Shoes are designed to handle all your running and training needs. These training shoes utilize dual-density cushioning for bounce when running and agile support when training.
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Chargefeel Mid Workout Shoes
Lululemon’s Chargefeel Mid Workout Shoes feature an extra smooth liner for comfort and an engineered mesh upper for stretch, ventilation, and support. These training shoes have a pressure-mapped outsole for traction and offer a 30-day full refund trial.
Also available in a low version.
11. New Balance Fresh Foam Cruzv1 Reissue
The New Balance Fresh Foam Cruzv1 is a comfortable and stylish slip-on that features NB Fresh Foam technology for premium cushion and stability. This training shoe has a sophisticated upper that combines a synthetic midfoot saddle with a soft knit for comfort.
Shop at New Balance: New Balance Fresh Foam Cruzv1
Available on Amazon: New Balance Fresh Foam Cruzv1
New Balance’s Fresh Foam Cruzv1 features lightweight cushioning, a molded foam heel for comfort, and a gum rubber outsole for superior traction. This training shoe will keep your feet feeling fresh and supported.
12. Under Armour Charged Aurora 2 Training Shoes
The Under Armour Charged Aurora 2 Training Shoes feature a Charged Cushioning midsole with compression molded foam for extra responsiveness and durability. These training shoes have a lightweight and breathable upper to keep you cool and dry.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Charged Aurora 2 Training Shoes
Available on Amazon: UA Charged Aurora 2 Training Shoes
Under Armour’s Charged Aurora 2 Training Shoes have a streamlined fit that’s specifically designed for the female foot. These training shoes utilize strategic TPU overlays for a lockdown fit and superior durability.
13. Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoes
The Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoes are specifically designed to handle tough workouts while providing superior comfort with lightweight and responsive Floatride Energy Foam cushioning. This training shoe utilizes a TPU heel clip for extra stability in all directions.
Shop at Reebok: Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoes
Available on Amazon: Reebok Nano X2 Training Shoes
Reebok’s Nano X2 Training Shoes feature a comfortable and breathable Flexweave knit upper that integrates with multidirectional support. This versatile training shoe has a durable rubber outsole with a grippy high-traction lug pattern.
14. Saysh One Sneaker
The Saysh One Sneaker is the debut shoe of Olympic track star Allyson Felix’s new sneaker company for women. This training shoe is a super lightweight option that features a one-piece molded heel with perfectly placed foam pods for ultimate comfort.
Shop at Athleta: Saysh One Sneaker
Saysh’s One Sneaker features a breathable soft microsuede that’s perfect for low impact workouts at the gym, the studio, and outdoors. This training shoe has a removable sockliner and foam cushioning on the tongue to reduce lace pressure on your foot.
15. ON Cloud X Training Shoes
The ON Cloud X Training Shoes feature a lightweight and extra agile performance design to handle all types of workouts. These training shoes have molded cushion pads in the heel and Speedboard technology for energy return.
Available on Amazon: ON Cloud X Training Shoes
ON’s Cloud X Training Shoes utilize a CloudTec outsole for explosive movements in all directions and raised sidewalls for added stability. These training shoes have a no-sew design for a perfect fit and a function-focused weave pattern mesh upper.
16. Asics GEL-DS Trainer 26
The Asics GEL-DS Trainer 26 feature shock absorbing GEL technology with a FLYTEFOAM midsole material for soft and supportive footstriking. These training shoes have a comfortable sockliner and a AHARPLUS heel plug for improved durability.
Shop at Asics: Asics GEL-DS Trainer 26
Available on Amazon: Asics GEL-DS Trainer 26
Asics’ GEL-DS Trainer 26 utilize Proplusion Trusstic technology that propels your stride and a durable high abrasion rubber outsole. These training shoes have an updated knit upper that’s soft and flexible for natural movements and reflective details for visibility.
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