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10 Best Workout Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe - White/Oyster/Alloy - 8.5 Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,489
Support
Weight
Breathability

Most important from
3345 reviews

Support
Exceptional support and stability help alleviate knee and ankle issues, making these shoes ideal for those needing extra foot alignment.
Weight
The nitrogen-infused cushioning delivers a soft yet responsive feel that remains lightweight and comfortable for long runs.
Breathability
Breathable engineered mesh upper balances airflow and flexibility, keeping feet cool without compromising support.
Fit
True-to-size fit with a slight adjustment needed for toe space ensures a comfortable and secure feel right out of the box.
Durability
Durability stands out with a well-made build that doesn’t require a break-in period, providing immediate comfort.
Traction
Smooth transitions and reliable traction enhance running efficiency across various surfaces.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,489
Support
Weight
Breathability

Most important from
3345 reviews

Support
Exceptional support and stability help alleviate knee and ankle issues, making these shoes ideal for those needing extra foot alignment.
Weight
The nitrogen-infused cushioning delivers a soft yet responsive feel that remains lightweight and comfortable for long runs.
Breathability
Breathable engineered mesh upper balances airflow and flexibility, keeping feet cool without compromising support.
Fit
True-to-size fit with a slight adjustment needed for toe space ensures a comfortable and secure feel right out of the box.
Durability
Durability stands out with a well-made build that doesn’t require a break-in period, providing immediate comfort.
Traction
Smooth transitions and reliable traction enhance running efficiency across various surfaces.
#2

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Oyster/Lava - 8 Medium

Rating
9.4
Fit
Support
Traction

Most important from
6522 reviews

Fit
These shoes provide a perfect balance of support and softness, delivering a gentle, secure fit without cramping or rubbing.
Support
These shoes provide a perfect balance of support and softness, delivering a gentle, secure fit without cramping or rubbing.
Traction
Right out of the box, the shoe requires no break-in time and offers immediate comfort and grip.
Durability
Durability and traction make these shoes reliable for both outdoor trail exercise and indoor workouts.

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.

Rating
9.4
Fit
Support
Traction

Most important from
6522 reviews

Fit
These shoes provide a perfect balance of support and softness, delivering a gentle, secure fit without cramping or rubbing.
Support
These shoes provide a perfect balance of support and softness, delivering a gentle, secure fit without cramping or rubbing.
Traction
Right out of the box, the shoe requires no break-in time and offers immediate comfort and grip.
Durability
Durability and traction make these shoes reliable for both outdoor trail exercise and indoor workouts.
#3

Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Black/Ebony - 10.5 Wide

Rating
8.5
Fit
Support
Breathability

Most important from
4192 reviews

Fit
Fit is true to size with just the right amount of room in the toe box, allowing natural foot splay without feeling loose.
Support
The cushioning strikes the perfect balance—soft enough for comfort but firm enough to provide a responsive and smooth ride.
Breathability
Breathability is excellent, with the engineered mesh upper keeping feet cool even during extended runs.
Flexibility
The seamless transition from heel strike to toe-off delivers a smooth, stable running experience.
Weight
The shoe feels incredibly lightweight, enhancing agility and reducing fatigue over long distances.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 is a well-rounded running shoe designed especially for those who want a comfortable, smooth ride without distractions. Its fit is enhanced by a 3D Fit Print that creates a secure yet seamless feel, making it suitable for wider feet (this model is 10.5 Wide). The shoe provides neutral support, which means it’s good for runners who don’t overpronate or need extra stability. Cushioning is a highlight here, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam that delivers soft, lightweight comfort during runs or gym workouts. The shoe’s midsole and segmented crash pad help with smooth transitions from heel strike to toe-off, which can reduce fatigue. Breathability is addressed with an engineered air mesh upper, keeping feet cool without sacrificing structure. Traction comes from the RoadTack rubber outsole that is both durable and lightweight, offering good grip on roads and gym floors, although it’s mainly designed for hard surfaces rather than trails.

The shoe is also fairly light at about 1.17 pounds, which helps with flexibility and agility during movement. Durability is supported by the recycled silica rubber compound, so the shoe should hold up well with regular use. While it’s versatile for running, walking, and cross-training, those needing specialized support (like motion control) might look elsewhere. This model is also certified diabetic-friendly and carries the APMA seal, which is a plus for foot health. In summary, the Ghost 16 is ideal for runners and active users looking for a soft, breathable shoe with reliable fit and cushioning on paved surfaces.

Rating
8.5
Fit
Support
Breathability

Most important from
4192 reviews

Fit
Fit is true to size with just the right amount of room in the toe box, allowing natural foot splay without feeling loose.
Support
The cushioning strikes the perfect balance—soft enough for comfort but firm enough to provide a responsive and smooth ride.
Breathability
Breathability is excellent, with the engineered mesh upper keeping feet cool even during extended runs.
Flexibility
The seamless transition from heel strike to toe-off delivers a smooth, stable running experience.
Weight
The shoe feels incredibly lightweight, enhancing agility and reducing fatigue over long distances.

Buying Guide for the Best Workout Shoes

Choosing the right workout shoes is crucial for your performance and comfort during exercise. The right pair can help prevent injuries, provide the necessary support, and enhance your overall workout experience. When selecting workout shoes, consider the type of exercise you'll be doing, your foot type, and personal preferences for fit and style.
FitFit refers to how well the shoe conforms to your foot. A good fit is essential to avoid blisters, discomfort, and injuries. Shoes that are too tight can cause pain, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability. To find the right fit, ensure there is enough room in the toe box, the heel is snug but not too tight, and the shoe feels comfortable when you walk or run. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the best fit.
SupportSupport in workout shoes refers to the structure and features that help stabilize your foot and provide cushioning. This is important to prevent injuries and enhance comfort during exercise. Shoes with good arch support are essential for people with flat feet or high arches. Look for shoes with adequate cushioning in the midsole and heel to absorb impact. If you have specific needs, such as overpronation or supination, choose shoes designed to address these issues.
TractionTraction refers to the grip the shoe provides on various surfaces. Good traction is important to prevent slipping and ensure stability during workouts. Shoes with rubber soles and patterned treads offer better grip. If you primarily exercise indoors, look for shoes with non-marking soles. For outdoor activities, choose shoes with deeper treads for better grip on uneven surfaces.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the shoe allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of blisters and fungal infections. Shoes made with mesh or other breathable materials are ideal for high-intensity workouts or hot weather. If you tend to sweat a lot, prioritize shoes with good ventilation.
FlexibilityFlexibility refers to how easily the shoe bends and moves with your foot. This is important for activities that require a lot of movement, such as running, aerobics, or dance. Shoes with flexible soles and uppers allow for natural foot movement and can enhance performance. If your workout involves a lot of lateral movements, look for shoes with flexibility in the forefoot and midfoot areas.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the shoe will last under regular use. This is important to ensure you get good value for your money and don't have to replace your shoes frequently. Look for shoes made with high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. If you exercise frequently or engage in high-impact activities, choose shoes known for their durability.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shoe feels on your foot. Lighter shoes can enhance performance by reducing fatigue and allowing for quicker movements. However, heavier shoes often provide more support and cushioning. If you prefer a lightweight feel, look for shoes made with lightweight materials and minimalistic designs. If you need more support, consider slightly heavier shoes with added features.

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