10 Best Female Gym Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a comfortable and versatile shoe designed for women who need reliable footwear for running, walking, and gym activities. It offers a neutral fit with soft, lightweight cushioning thanks to the DNA Loft v3 foam, making each step feel gentle on your feet. The shoe’s design promotes smooth movement thanks to flex grooves in the midsole, which help maintain your pace with less effort. Breathability is well-handled by the double jacquard air mesh upper, which keeps feet cool and dry during workouts. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, and the kick-back collar provides extra ankle support.

Durability and traction are improved by a rubber outsole made with recycled materials, offering good grip on various surfaces without adding extra weight. An added bonus is the shoe’s certification for diabetic foot care and its carbon-neutral production, which may appeal to those with specific health needs or an interest in sustainability. On the downside, while the shoe excels in cushioning and comfort, it is best suited for neutral foot types and may not provide enough support for those needing extra stability or motion control. Also, the medium width may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.

This shoe is a solid choice if you want a soft, breathable, and eco-conscious gym and running shoe that performs well for everyday use.

The New Balance Women's 574 Core Sneaker is designed with a focus on sustainability and comfort. The midsole foam and rubber outsole incorporate renewable and recycled materials, which is a positive step for eco-conscious consumers. Fit and comfort are strong points, with the shoe offering extended width sizes to cater to various foot shapes. The ENCAP midsole cushioning provides a blend of softness and support that can be beneficial for all-day wear, making it a good choice for gym activities where prolonged standing or walking is involved.

The mesh material in the vamp, collar, and tongue enhances breathability, helping keep feet cool during workouts. The rubber outsole ensures decent traction, but its durability might be a bit questionable due to the inclusion of recycled rubber. In terms of support and stability, the shoe does provide adequate backing for low to moderate impact activities, though it may not be the best choice for high-intensity workouts. The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, adding to the comfort.

Beginners or those engaging in light to moderate gym sessions are likely to find these shoes a good match.

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is designed for women seeking a comfortable and highly cushioned shoe that works well for gym activities, running, and cross-training. Its standout feature is the DNA Tuned midsole technology, which balances soft cushioning in the heel with a responsive feel at the front, making your footfalls plush yet energetic. This shoe offers neutral support, meaning it suits those who don’t need extra stability but still want reliable comfort during workouts. The double jacquard knit upper is breathable and flexible, helping keep your feet cool and allowing a snug but accommodating fit.

The broad platform improves stability and smooths transitions from heel to toe, which can reduce fatigue during longer sessions. The sole’s rubber material should provide good traction on typical gym floors and running surfaces. However, while the shoe promises durability, mesh uppers sometimes wear faster than tougher materials, especially under heavy use. This shoe is especially suited for those who prioritize cushioning and comfort during workouts and have neutral foot types. If you need more support, the Glycerin GTS 22 version might be better.

The Glycerin 22 combines comfort, breathability, and smooth performance, making it a solid choice for everyday gym use and road running.