The 9 Best Cross-Training Shoes for Men

9 Best Cross-Training Shoes, Tested and Reviewed 2024

<p>These are shoes you could theoretically both <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g60858328/best-running-shoes-from-amazon/” target=”_blank”>run</a> and lift in, without being either a purely lifting or <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/health/a60846015/hoka-clifton-9-review/” target=”_blank”>running shoe</a>. For example, <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/health/a60846015/hoka-clifton-9-review/” target=”_blank”>Hoka</a> makes running shoes through and through, big cushioned ones that aren’t great for lifting. And lifting shoes tend to be too flat or too heavy for more explosive movement. Instead of going too far in either direction, these shoes have a bit of cushion underfoot, often with some lateral and heel support for lateral movement or jumping. It’s a Goldilocks, best-of-both-worlds scenario, and we’re just as picky. After years of playing the field, these are the nine best cross-trainers we have found.</p>” data-next-head/>

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.

Zappos

The Holy Grail Cross-Training Shoe

Nike Free Metcon 6

The Nike Metcon 6 is the cross-training shoe that consistently performs in the gym. It’s super lightweight with a stretchy, elasticized upper that locks your foot in. The sole feels supportive, though it’s distinctly less cushy than a running shoe. There’s enough feedback to lift in these as well.

The higher support around the mid-foot to heel is also a real standout here. If you’re doing any lateral movement (jumping, in particular), you won’t feel like your foot is unstable or sliding around. Add to that a pretty reasonable $120 price tag and it’s as good as a cross-trainer is going to get.

Materials	Mesh, foam
Colors	20+
Heel Drop	Not listed

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Best Cross-Training Shoe for Power

Under Armour Project Rock 7 Training Shoe

Pros

Great for explosive movements
Heel and tongue tabs

Cons

Cushioning a bit high for heavy lifts
Not a ton of colors

Under Armour and the Rock, king of the gym, have been working on shoes that deliver in the gym, and this version is great for power and cardio. The flexible but sturdy upper and bouncy midsole make for seamless movement between running, jumping, and any other plyometric. That flexible upper is designed, similar to the Metcon 6, with a single piece, rather than an upper and a separate tongue. This means it’s easier for it to both slip on and stay put. We like the extended toe-cap wraps for great traction, too.

Materials	Foam, TPU, rubber
Colors	3
Heel Drop	6mm

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What to Look For

Materials:

A cross-training shoe is trying to do a few things at once: be supportive without being heavy and keep you in a neutral position without being uncomfortable. The best choice for you is going to come down to how much foam cushioning you like and if you prefer a flexible mesh upper or something a little stiffer.

Support and Stability:

Because cross-training involves multiple movement patterns, some of these shoes are more stable in certain areas. If you’re doing a lot of jumping or lateral moving, having some solid midsole support is great. If you’re more focused on lifting, a stable heel cup is going to matter more.

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Why Trust Esquire

Lord knows we love a sneaker, and a training sneaker is no different. These picks have been through the ringer—and they have come out strong against narrower, heavier, and lower-quality cross-trainers.