Whether you’re heading back to the gym after a long break or just looking to add some intensity to your exercise, a pair of high-performance athletic shoes is a worthwhile investment. The hard part? Decide which ones to get.
Today’s athletic shoe market is saturated with brands large and small, each of which touts innovative running shoes with flashy names like Alphafly, Ultraboost, and Floatride. To narrow down your options, consider the type of exercises you will be doing – such as running, resistance training, circuit training, or even outdoor exercise – and choose footwear that is designed to fit your routine.
To make sure you spend more time on your fitness plan and less time shopping for shoes, we’ve rounded up 11 of the Best Exercise Shoes for 2022. No matter your budget or workout style, you’ll find the perfect fit with brands including Nike, Adidas, Xero, and more.
in the cloud x
Courtesy image1. In cloud X
The Swiss shoemaker has been gaining popularity, and his Cloud X multipurpose sneaker shows why. Its exclusive hollow CloudTec outsole and dynamic Helion foam cushioning add explosiveness with every step, while the raised sidewalls in the outsole create a stable platform so you can dominate your workout.
[$140; on-running.com]
get it
adidas ultraboost 22
Courtesy image2. Adidas Ultraboost 22
Adidas raised the bar for performance and sustainability with the Ultraboost 22. Comfortable cushioning in the Boost midsole prevents foot fatigue, the Continental rubber outsole adds traction, and the upper is made with a high-performance yarn that contains at least 50% of ocean plastic recovered. —The ultimate feel-good running and exercise shoe.
[$190; adidas.com]
get it
nike metcon 7
Courtesy image3. Nike Metcon 7
Looking for new weightlifting goals? Nike Metcon 7 will help you achieve that PR. The shoe’s wide, flat heel creates a stable platform for lifting heavy objects, and React foam in the midsole adds cushioning for a comfortable feel. Grippy outsoles wrap around the arch to provide reliable traction for more adventurous workouts like rope climbs.
[$130; nike.com]
Under Armor HOVR Apex 3
Courtesy image4. Under Armor HOVR Apex 3
With its layered support system, responsive HOVR cushioning, and a flexible mesh upper, Under Armor’s HOVR Apex 3 was designed to maximize your movement in all directions. Plus, its TriBase outsole offers strong grip and flexes with your foot for greater freedom of movement.
[$140; underarmour.com]
Inov-8 Fastlift 360
Courtesy image5. Inov-8 Fastlift 360
Weightlifters will appreciate several features of the Fastlift 360. The external heel structure and Powertruss outsole provide support and a solid base for lifting, while the grippy rubber outsole prevents slipping. The upper is made with ballistic nylon, a material that offers excellent protection and durability, but can still flex with your foot for a comfortable fit.
[$190; inov-9.com]
Nobull Black Canvas Sneaker
Courtesy image6. Nobull Black Canvas Trainer
A minimalist gym shoe that offers impressive performance and a sleek appearance, the Nobull Black Canvas Trainer is a top-notch choice. Guards along the sides of the shoe provide added protection and stability, while the lug pattern on the outsole was designed to provide flexibility and traction on a variety of surfaces.
[$109; nobullproject.com]
Reebok Floatride Energy 3 Adventure
Courtesy image7. Reebok Floatride Energy 3 Adventure
If you prefer to sweat outdoors, Reebok’s Floatride Energy 3 Adventure Shoes are a great footwear choice. Floatride Energy foam creates a responsive and bouncy feel, the mesh upper is designed to quickly drain water, and the studded carbon rubber outsole has plenty of durability and grip for excursions on land.
[$110; reebok.com]
Xero speed force
Courtesy image8. Xero speed force
Thick, cushioned midsoles aren’t for everyone, and the Xero Speed Force is ideal for those who prefer a barefoot feel. The flexible rubber outsole, close-to-the-ground design, and wide toe box promote natural foot movement as well as improve balance and agility. You can also remove the 3mm insole to get even closer to the ground.
[$110; xeroshoes.com]
New Balance Fresh Foam Roav
Courtesy image9. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav
Save money without sacrificing performance with Fresh Foam Roav from New Balance. Its Ultra Heel design and bootie upper provide a comfortable, supportive fit around your foot, the plush cool foam midsole creates a soft, cushioned ride, and the sticky rubber outsole offers reliable traction.
[$85; newbalance.com]
Asics jolt 3
Courtesy image10. Asics Jolt 3
Don’t be fooled by its low price – the JOLT 3 will help you get through your toughest workouts without a hitch. Flex grooves in the sole aid natural foot movement, while the combination of an ultra-soft footbed and EVA midsole provide all the comfort you need.
[$55; asics.com]
kane revive
Courtesy image11. Kane revives
Kane designed the Revive with recovery in mind. Ideal for post-workout wear, this unique shoe features external holes to improve airflow, and the raised bumps on the footbed encourage blood flow to tired muscles. Better yet, the dual-density midsole creates a cushioned feel, and the oversized grooves and grooves in the outsole prevent slipping.
[$70; kanefootwear.com]
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