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10 Best Workout Shoes For Women 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 - 9 Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,227
Fit and Size
Durability
Cushioning

Most important from
3316 reviews

Fit and Size
The shoes feel very supportive and quickly conform to the feet, becoming much more comfortable after initial wear.
Durability
They provide excellent stability and comfort across various terrains including cobblestone, dirt, grass, and asphalt, making them ideal for long walks and travel.
Cushioning
The balance between cushioning and stability is perfect, offering support without bulkiness, which helps prevent foot fatigue during all-day wear.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is a supportive running shoe designed especially for women who need reliable stability during their workouts. It features Brooks’ Guiderails Holistic Support System, which helps keep your foot and body aligned, making it a great choice if you tend to overpronate or require extra arch support. The cushioning uses nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, providing a soft yet lightweight feel that adapts well to your stride, so it’s comfortable for longer runs or daily training.

The shoe’s upper is made from engineered air mesh, offering decent breathability to keep your feet cooler during exercise, while still providing a snug, stretchy fit that accommodates foot movement without feeling too tight. The outsole is designed for smooth transitions and reliable traction on various surfaces, which is important if you run both on roads and light trails. Durability is solid thanks to rubber materials on both the sole and outer areas, meaning the shoe holds up well over time. Another plus is that it’s a certified diabetic-friendly shoe with the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which signals good foot health support.

On the downside, the shoe might feel a bit narrow if you have wider feet, and while it's great for running and general workouts, it may not be the best fit for high-intensity cross-training or gym activities requiring more lateral movement. Also, the cushioning, while plush, leans toward a softer feel, so those who prefer a firmer sole might want to try them on first. The Adrenaline GTS 24 is a strong choice for women runners or walkers who want excellent support, comfort, and moderate breathability, especially if foot stability is a priority.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,227
Fit and Size
Durability
Cushioning

Most important from
3316 reviews

Fit and Size
The shoes feel very supportive and quickly conform to the feet, becoming much more comfortable after initial wear.
Durability
They provide excellent stability and comfort across various terrains including cobblestone, dirt, grass, and asphalt, making them ideal for long walks and travel.
Cushioning
The balance between cushioning and stability is perfect, offering support without bulkiness, which helps prevent foot fatigue during all-day wear.
#2

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - White/White/Grey - 8.5 Medium

Rating
8.5
Type of Workout
Fit and Size
Cushioning

Most important from
6754 reviews

Type of Workout
These shoes provide excellent comfort and support for walking long distances, adding a noticeable pep to every step.
Fit and Size
The wide toe box offers ample room without feeling cramped, making them perfect for those who need extra space.
Cushioning
The arch placement and cushioning strike the perfect balance for everyday wear, especially for those with high arches.
Durability
Durable quality justifies the higher price, making them a worthwhile investment for daily use.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is designed primarily for runners who want a smooth, comfortable ride without distractions. It features soft, lightweight cushioning (DNA Loft v3) that offers neutral support, making it a good option for road running, gym workouts, and walking. This cushioning helps absorb impact well while maintaining a responsive feel. The shoe has a breathable engineered mesh upper that keeps your feet cooler during exercise. For fit, the refined 3D Fit Print technology ensures a secure, comfortable fit without tight spots, and it’s available in a standard medium width (size 8.5 shown). Arch support is neutral, so it’s best suited for those with normal arches rather than those needing strong corrective support.

Durability is enhanced by the new RoadTack rubber outsole, which is lightweight but tough and offers good traction on pavement and gym floors. One standout feature is that this shoe is certified diabetic-friendly and carries the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which may appeal to users with foot sensitivity or health concerns. On the downside, since it’s focused on neutral cushioning and road use, it might not be ideal for trail running or intense lateral movements in some sports. Also, if you have very high or low arches, the neutral setup might not provide enough specialized support.

The Brooks Ghost 16 is a versatile, reliable running shoe that balances comfort, breathability, and durability, making it a solid choice for everyday female runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a smooth and cushioned ride.

Rating
8.5
Type of Workout
Fit and Size
Cushioning

Most important from
6754 reviews

Type of Workout
These shoes provide excellent comfort and support for walking long distances, adding a noticeable pep to every step.
Fit and Size
The wide toe box offers ample room without feeling cramped, making them perfect for those who need extra space.
Cushioning
The arch placement and cushioning strike the perfect balance for everyday wear, especially for those with high arches.
Durability
Durable quality justifies the higher price, making them a worthwhile investment for daily use.
#3

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe, White/Light Gold Metallic/Sea Salt, 8.5 M

Rating
7.9
Type of Workout
Fit and Size
Durability

Most important from
971 reviews

Type of Workout
Perfect daily running and walking shoe with just the right amount of support and superb comfort.
Fit and Size
Fits like a glove and provides excellent ankle support, surpassing other brands.
Durability
Incredibly comfortable, even after years of use and wear, with a stylish design.

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 Running Shoe is a versatile option for various types of workouts, especially running. One of its standout features is the Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides exceptional cushioning, making it comfortable for long runs or high-impact activities. This cushioning is also environmentally friendly, as it includes bio-based content from renewable resources, which is a plus for eco-conscious buyers.

The gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, enhancing the shoe's practicality for outdoor runs. In terms of fit, the adjustable lace closure allows for a customized fit, which is crucial for comfort and performance. The synthetic and engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, helping to keep your feet cool and dry during intense workouts.

The no-sew overlays may not offer as much support as some other designs, which could be a drawback for those needing extra arch support. Durability is generally good thanks to the rubber outer and sole materials. The traction provided by the rubber sole is adequate for most surfaces, making these shoes suitable for various terrains. These shoes are best suited for running and other high-impact workouts, offering excellent cushioning and breathability, though they might fall short for those needing additional arch support.

Rating
7.9
Type of Workout
Fit and Size
Durability

Most important from
971 reviews

Type of Workout
Perfect daily running and walking shoe with just the right amount of support and superb comfort.
Fit and Size
Fits like a glove and provides excellent ankle support, surpassing other brands.
Durability
Incredibly comfortable, even after years of use and wear, with a stylish design.

Buying Guide for the Best Workout Shoes For Women

Choosing the right workout shoes is crucial for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. The right pair of shoes can make a significant difference in your workout experience, whether you're running, lifting weights, or doing high-intensity interval training. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting workout shoes for women, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Type of WorkoutDifferent workouts require different types of shoes. Running shoes are designed for forward motion and cushioning, while cross-training shoes offer more lateral support and stability for activities like weightlifting or aerobics. Determine the primary activity you'll be using the shoes for and choose accordingly. If you engage in multiple types of workouts, consider a versatile cross-training shoe.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe, which affects comfort and shock absorption. High cushioning is ideal for running or high-impact activities, providing more comfort and reducing stress on your joints. Moderate cushioning is suitable for general gym workouts, offering a balance between comfort and stability. Minimal cushioning is best for weightlifting or activities requiring a stable base. Choose the level of cushioning based on the intensity and type of your workouts.
Arch SupportArch support is crucial for maintaining proper foot alignment and preventing injuries. Shoes can have high, medium, or low arch support. High arch support is necessary for those with high arches to prevent excessive strain. Medium arch support suits most people with neutral arches, providing balanced support. Low arch support is for those with flat feet, helping to distribute weight evenly. Identify your arch type and select shoes that offer the appropriate level of support.
Fit and SizeA proper fit ensures comfort and prevents blisters or other foot issues. Workout shoes should have a snug fit but not be too tight. There should be enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. It's also important to consider the width of the shoe, as some brands offer narrow, regular, and wide options. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the most accurate fit. Always try on both shoes and walk around to ensure they feel comfortable.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the shoe allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. Shoes with good breathability are made from mesh or other lightweight materials that promote airflow. This is especially important for high-intensity workouts or hot climates, as it helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of blisters. If you tend to sweat a lot or work out in warm conditions, prioritize shoes with high breathability.
DurabilityDurability is about how long the shoes will last under regular use. High-quality materials and construction contribute to a shoe's durability. Consider the type of workouts you'll be doing and how often you'll be using the shoes. For frequent, high-intensity workouts, look for shoes with reinforced areas and sturdy construction. If your workouts are less intense or less frequent, you might not need the most durable option. Assess your workout routine and choose shoes that will withstand your level of activity.
TractionTraction refers to the grip the shoe provides on different surfaces. Good traction is essential for preventing slips and falls, especially during high-intensity or outdoor workouts. Shoes with rubber outsoles and patterned treads offer better grip. If you primarily work out indoors, moderate traction may suffice. For outdoor activities or varied surfaces, look for shoes with enhanced traction features. Consider where you'll be using the shoes most often and choose a pair with appropriate traction.

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