10 Best Workout Shoes For Women 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a great choice if you’re looking for a comfortable, reliable shoe for running, walking, or general workouts. It stands out with its soft DNA Loft v3 cushioning, which offers a plush yet lightweight feel that helps reduce foot fatigue over longer sessions. The shoe provides neutral arch support, making it suitable for runners and walkers who don’t need extra correction for overpronation. Fit-wise, the breathable jacquard mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the lace-up design allows a snug and adjustable fit.

In terms of durability, the rubber outsole uses recycled silica for solid grip and bounce, so you can trust it on various surfaces without worrying about quick wear. The smooth flex grooves in the midsole help your foot move naturally through each step, aiding in smooth transitions and maintaining momentum. One note is that while it’s a neutral shoe, if you need strong arch support or stability features, you might want to explore other models. Also, it’s not designed specifically for trail running, so traction might be less effective on very rough or slippery terrain.

If your workouts involve road running, gym sessions, or casual walking, the Ghost 17 offers a balanced mix of cushioning, comfort, and durability.

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is a highly cushioned, neutral running shoe designed to support women during various workouts, including road running, gym sessions, and cross-training. It features advanced DNA Tuned technology in the midsole, which blends dual-sized cushioning cells to create a soft landing at the heel and a responsive push-off at the toe. This makes the shoe feel both plush and energetic, ideal if you want comfort without sacrificing performance. The shoe is also recognized for foot health, carrying the APMA Seal of Acceptance and certified as a diabetic-friendly model, which adds confidence for users needing extra care.

Fit-wise, the double jacquard knit upper adapts well to foot shape, providing a stretchy but secure feel, along with good breathability to keep feet cooler during workouts. The broad platform and tuned heel help stabilize your foot and create smooth heel-to-toe transitions, which can reduce fatigue and improve running efficiency. Traction is reliable for typical gym or road surfaces thanks to the rubber sole.

On the downside, the shoe provides neutral support without extra arch reinforcement, so it may not be best if you need strong stability or have specific arch support needs. While durable, knit uppers sometimes wear faster than leather alternatives, so heavy outdoor use might show wear sooner. The sizing and medium width fit most feet, but those with wider feet should try them on to ensure comfort. This shoe is a great choice if you want a comfortable, cushioned workout shoe that works well for running and general training with a smooth, stable feel. However, if you need firm arch support or more robust durability for rugged use, you might want to look at other options.

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.