10 Best Workout Shoes 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is designed for runners and walkers seeking maximum cushioning and a protective, stable ride. Its standout feature is the thick nitrogen-infused midsole foam, which offers very soft and comfortable cushioning, making it gentle on your feet during impact. The shoe’s broad base and raised sidewalls provide solid stability, helping keep your foot secure without feeling restrictive. This is particularly helpful if you’re concerned about injury or need a shoe that supports your natural walking or running motion.

The GlideRoll technology promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making your steps feel effortless and reducing strain. The shoe also fits a variety of foot shapes well, even accommodating orthotics. Being certified for diabetics and having the APMA Seal demonstrates its focus on foot health. The thicker cushioning and broad base result in a shoe that is likely heavier than more minimalist running shoes, which might not appeal if you prefer something light and fast. Breathability isn’t highlighted much, so if you tend to have hot feet, this might be a consideration.

Its nylon upper and rubber sole should provide decent durability and traction for most road and light trail surfaces, though it’s not specifically designed for aggressive off-road use. If you prioritize comfort, cushioning, and stability—especially for longer walks or runs—the Ghost Max 2 represents a solid choice. However, if you want a lightweight, highly flexible shoe or one optimized for intense speed workouts, you might want to look elsewhere.