The Best Training Shoes for Women 2024

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 2024.

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, 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 easy on/offs.

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 Metcon 9 Training Shoes

The Nike Metcon 9 Training Shoes feature a larger Hyperlift plate for improved stability and grounded support during tough workouts. These training shoes feature a lightweight and breathable upper with a secure lace lock system that eliminates distraction.  

Shop at Nike: Nike Metcon 9 Training Shoes

Nike’s Metcon 9 Training Shoes sport a dual-density midsole for responsive cushioning and lasting comfort. These training shoes have a full rubber outsole for durable traction and an extended rubber wrap on the side for multidirectional support.

4. Nike Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes

The Nike Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes combine backend stability with flexible Nike Free technology to create Nike’s highest rated women’s training shoe. These training shoes have a revamped upper with a breathable sock-like inner sleeve. 

Shop at Nike: Nike Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes

Nike’s Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes utilize a wide heel for a solid lifting base and soft foam cushioning for your foot. These training shoes have plush foam around the ankle for comfortable support and durable rubber tread in high-wear areas for traction.

5. Nike Motiva Training Shoes

The Nike Motiva Training Shoes pair an exaggerated rocker on the outsole to propel you forward with a uniquely patterned ComfortGroove outsole for a smooth and cushioned ride.

Shop at Nike: Nike Motiva Training Shoes

Nike’s Motiva Training Shoes sport a soft foam waterfall collar that hugs around the ankle and a half inner sleeve construction for easy on/offs and chafe-reduction. These training shoes have a widened forefoot, arch, and toe box for a comfortable fit.

6. Adidas Dropset 2 Training Shoes

The Adidas Dropset 2 Training Shoes feature a 6mm midsole drop for a flat and stable platform and proper alignment on all your lifts. These training shoes sport a firm EVA compound in the heel for controlled stability and a soft EVA in the forefoot for comfort.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas Dropset 2 Training Shoes

Adidas’ Dropset 2 Training Shoes provide a supportive TPU sidewall for midfoot stability and an airflow window for breathability. These training shoes have a wide fit design and a grippy Traxion outsole to keep your footing secure.

7. Adidas RapidMove Training Shoes

The Adidas RapidMove Training Shoes pair a comfortable and supportive EVA midsole with an asymmetrical Torsion System rubber outsole for multidirectional stability.

Shop at Adidas: Adidas RapidMove Training Shoes

Adidas’s RapidMove Training Shoes utilize a lightweight and agile design with a breathable knit upper, adjustable lacing system, and an extra stable feel that can handle intense workouts.

8. 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.

9. Lululemon Chargefeel Workout Shoes

The Lululemon Chargefeel Workout Shoes feature springy dual-density midsole cushioning for bounce when running and agile support when training. These training shoes have a pressure-mapped outsole for great traction during heel-to-toe and lateral movements.

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Chargefeel Workout Shoes (Mid)

Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Chargefeel Workout Shoes (Low)

Lululemon’s Chargefeel Workout Shoes sport an extra smooth liner for comfort and a supportive knit upper that wraps around your foot for stability. These training shoes are available in both mid and low designs.

10. Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

The Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes feature a new Lift and Run Chassis system with a dome-shaped heel piece that compresses under load when lifting for a stable platform and softens when you push off to run and jump.

Shop at Reebok: Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

Reebok’s Nano X3 Training Shoes utilize Floatride Energy Foam for lightweight cushioning, a stretchy and supportive Flexweave upper, and an all-surface rubber outsole.

11. New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport v2 Training Shoes

The New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport v2 Training Shoes feature an ultra-responsive DynaSoft midsole for plush comfort and peak performance. These training shoes utilize adjustable laces for a locked-in and supportive fit.

Shop at New Balance: NB DynaSoft Nergize Sport v2 Training Shoes

New Balance’s DynaSoft Nergize Sport v2 Training Shoes utilize a 6mm midsole drop for a flat and stable platform and proper alignment on all your lifts. These training shoes have a no-sew construction upper for a sleek fit and a durable rubber outsole.

12. Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes

The Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes feature extra comfortable Flow Cushioning and a 12-point Boa Fit System for a personalized lockdown fit. These training shoes sport a versatile design with a heel that converts easily from training mode to recovery mode.

Shop at Under Armour: UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes

Under Armour’s SlipSpeed Training Shoes utilize a breathable upper with engineered venting and interior Iso-Chill foam padding from heel to toe. These training shoes have a convenient machine washable design.

13. 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.

14. 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.

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