Best Workout Shoes For Women 2024

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 12 total, including Rose/Sand and Savannah/Frost | Weight: 7.09 ounces

• What’s notable: This shoe’s lightweight cushioning cradles the foot, while the speed lacing system makes it easy to take it on and off.
• What could be better: Some reviewers note these have a narrow fit, and there isn’t a lot of stretch.

Swiss-engineered and designed On has skyrocketed to popularity since the company’s founding in 2010 due to their cloud-like running shoes—which provide a firm takeoff and cushioned landing. The On Cloud X3 offers stability and cushioning, and it’s extremely lightweight, so it’s basically the holy grail for everything from lunges to squats to burpees to interval runs on the treadmill. While this model is more minimalist than some of the other super-springy Ons, it’s sturdy enough for varied workouts. Our editors are fans of this cross trainer and love the no-slip laces and how the shoes really hold feet in place while exercising, but found that these shoes do not feature a lot of stretch.

Sizes: 5 to 15 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 15 total, including Sea Glass and Light Silver | Weight: Not listed

• What’s notable: These Nikes offer plenty of stability, making them ideal for wearing while lifting weights or doing squats.
• What could be better: The shoelaces are shorter than previous versions, and some customers say they run on the smaller side.

The Nike Metcon is one of those shoes that has a cult following—many users are on their third or fourth pair—because they’re an all-around popular fit for HIIT, weightlifting, CrossFit and more. This shoe has a wide and flat heel that’s great for maintaining balance while lifting, a durable mesh upper with plastic overlays for stability and a handy lace lock system to keep laces from tripping you up mid-workout.

These shoes’ lightweight feel and stable support are wins, and although the Metcon 9 can feel a bit stiff, overall it’s a shoe that is an all-around winner in a wide variety of fitness activities. 

Sizes: 5 to 11 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 5 total, including Arctic Gum and Black Gum | Weight: 13.1 ounces

• What’s notable: These shoes have an abrasion-resistant upper and durable outsole, which provides extra stability and support.
• What could be better: Some reviewers say these shoes run small; popular colors are sometimes subject to restocking delays.

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Nobull has been in business since 2014 but recently became buzzworthy, thanks to their bestselling Gum Trainer, which has a low heel stack that keeps you closer to the ground and a supportive structure that adds extra stability. The flat sole helps guide your foot so you have the ideal lift-off from heel to toe, and the upper is water-resistant and built to withstand intense workouts. Also great: The anatomical insole molds to your foot and the toe box is wide to keep you comfortable as your feet swell during exercise.

“These are the best shoes for weight training due to their durability,” says Forbes Vetted’s senior operations manager Blaire Tiernan. “The flat sole also provides a strong base, so you truly feel solid and stable while lifting. These shoes are firm and lightweight, creating the perfect lifting shoe.”

Under Armour Charged Assert 9

For product reviews, gift ideas, and latest deals, Subscribe to the Forbes Finds newsletter.

“},”mediumAvatar”:”https://blogs-images.forbes.com/assets/images/avatars/blog-4983_62_6a35ad1b7db9ce9ac885b5f2de5c6338.jpg”,”largestAvatar”:”https://blogs-images.forbes.com/assets/images/avatars/blog-4983_400_6a35ad1b7db9ce9ac885b5f2de5c6338.jpg”,”displayType”:”Forbes Vetted”,”chanSecColor”:”#eb6262″,”showAuthorTypeDisclaimer”:false},”coAuthors”: [{“naturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/5009830″,”allowEmail”:false,”authorType”:”group”,”avatars”:[{“size”:136,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/136×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:40,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/40×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:400,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:62,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″}],”blogName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”bylineFormat”:1,”description”:”

I’m a contributing writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories at Forbes Vetted. I’ve worked in media for 20 years, art directing and designing fashion, beauty, health and tech content for a variety of magazines, websites and brands. Prior to this, I studied magazine journalism at the University of Missouri. When I’m not researching fashion, you’ll find me doing freelance projects, exploring textile and interior design, and rollerskating.

“,”disableCanonical”:false,”disableDigest”:false,”embargo”:false,”enableContribContact”:false,”enableTwitterFeed”:false,”inactive”:false,”metaDescription”:”I’m a contributing writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories at Forbes Vetted. I’ve worked in media for 20 years, art directing and designing fashion, beauty, health and tech content for a variety of magazines, websites and brands. Prior to this, I studied magazine journalism at the University of Missouri. When I’m not researching fashion, you’ll find me doing freelance projects, exploring textile and interior design, and rollerskating.”,”name”:”Becky Eaton”,”primaryBlogNaturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/blog-4983″,”primaryChannel”:{“id”:”channel_94″,”channelId”:”channel_94″,”channelName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”url”:”/vetted”,”showAds”:false,”showLicenseOptions”:false,”showSpreadsheetButton”:false,”enableComments”:false,”hexValue”:”#eb6262″,”secondaryHexValue”:”#ffa0a0″,”showQotd”:false},”primaryChannelId”:”channel_94″,”profileUrl”:”/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/beckyeaton/”,”showNoVestPocket”:false,”slug”:”beckyeaton”,”timestamp”: 1709742515324,”type”:”Contributor”,”url”:”https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/beckyeaton/”,”division”:”FC”,”shortBio”:”I’m a writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories. “,”mediumAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″,”largestAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″,”displayType”:”Contributor”,”chanSecColor”:”#eb6262″,”showAuthorTypeDisclaimer”:true}],”editedBy”:{“id”:”6452a406128a584af916b1f8″,”naturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/7236363″,”allowEmail”:false,”authorType”:”individual”,”avatars”: [{“size”:136,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/136×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″},{“size”:40,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/40×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″},{“size”:400,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″},{“size”:62,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″}],”blogName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”description”:”

As the senior strategy editor at Forbes Vetted, I collaborate with a small team of content strategists and updates writers to produce commerce content. I am also a certified personal trainer (CPT) and am deeply passionate about health and wellness; I’ve tested dozens of sleep and fitness products, including over 100 mattresses. I hold a B.A. in advertising from the Hussman School of Journalism & Media at UNC-CH and a B.A. in global studies from UNC-CH.

“,”name”:”Katie Simpson”,”primaryBlogNaturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/blog-4983″,”profileUrl”:”/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/katie-simpson/”,”slug”:”katie-simpson”,”timestamp”: 1721943482964,”type”:”Forbes Staff”,”url”:”https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/katie-simpson/”,”division”:”FC”,”shortBio”:”Strategy”,”mediumAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″,”largestAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/6453d1e0be05d566cf9c02fa/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2432&cropY1=0&cropY2=2432″,”chanSecColor”:””,”showAuthorTypeDisclaimer”:false}},”uri”:”http://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-workout-shoes-for-women/”,”channelSectionMappings”: [{“id”:”channel_108″,”channelName”:”Gear”,”url”:”/vetted/gear”,”specialSlot”:””,”dsfChannelName”:””,”dsfSectionName”:””,”sponsored”:false,”videoSpecialSlot”:””,”showAds”:false,”showLicenseOptions”:false,”showSpreadsheetButton”:false,”enableComments”:false,”showQotd”:false},{“id”:”channel_108section_2243″,”channelName”:”Gear”,”sectionName”:”Fitness”,”url”:”/vetted/gear/fitness”,”specialSlot”:””,”dsfChannelName”:””,”dsfSectionName”:””,”sponsored”:false,”videoSpecialSlot”:””,”showAds”:false,”showLicenseOptions”:false,”showSpreadsheetButton”:false,”enableComments”:false,”showQotd”:false},{“id”:”channel_94″,”channelName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”url”:”/vetted”,”specialSlot”:””,”dsfChannelName”:””,”dsfSectionName”:””,”sponsored”:false,”videoSpecialSlot”:””,”showAds”:false,”showLicenseOptions”:false,”showSpreadsheetButton”:false,”enableComments”:false,”showQotd”:false}],”bertieBadges”: [{“id”:”5da4bd6aaedc190006038473″,”slug”:”finds-pick”,”displayName”:”Forbes Finds Pick”,”status”:”active”,”priority”:102,”streamUrl”:””},{“id”:”5f930a895a865a000611c9c7″,”slug”:”shopping-recirc”,”displayName”:”Shopping Recirc”,”status”:”active”,”priority”:85,”streamUrl”:””}]}”>

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Standard, Wide | Colors: 30 total, including Black and Halo Grey | Weight: 8.9 ounces

• What’s notable: This shoe has a breathable upper and soft sock liner; it also comes in two widths.
• What could be better: The stiff upper fabric might be uncomfortable in the ankle for some.

For a springy model with out-of-the-box comfiness, this all-around shoe comes at an affordable price point. It features a lightweight, breathable upper, a soft sock liner for a snug fit, and a cushiony foam midsole that’s forgiving on joints. Reviewers love this pair for everything from running to interval training to providing support during long days standing at work. Many even say they’re deep enough to accommodate an orthotic—although some comment they run slightly wide.

According to testers, these provide instant comfort, although there are some issues with sizing inconsistencies and a small fit. If you’re between sizes, you may want to consider sizing up. 

Sizes: 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, Wide | Colors: 21 total, including Evening Sky and Swim Day | Weight: 7.3 ounces

• What’s notable: The Hoka Clifton 9 has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
• What could be better: Some say the sole wears out after several wears.

In our tested review of the best walking shoes for women, Hoka’s Clifton 9 scored the highest on cushioning. If you’re a fan of a rocker shoe—which has a thicker sole that creates a smooth transition from heel strike to toe off—the Clifton has an extremely lightweight EVA foam midsole that won’t weigh you down. The outsole is durable but flexible, the padded, extended heel collar holds your foot in place, and it’s got a breathable mesh upper to keep feet cool.

“These shoes are super comfortable and are my go-to for everything from jogging to dog-walking to workout classes or even heading to the airport,” says Cory Baldwin, executive director of commerce content and strategy at Forbes Vetted. “They are definitely on the clunky side but offer a ton of support and feel more lightweight than you would expect just by looking at them. My feet are on the wider side and they are very accommodating.”

Sizes: 5 to 13 | Widths: Standard | Colors: 12 total, including Sapphire/Light Blue and White | Weight: 9.2 ounces

• What’s notable: This shoe’s gel cushioning absorbs shock, while the grippy sole provides excellent traction.
• What could be better: The mesh upper, while breathable, isn’t water-resistant.

No workout shoe is perfect for every single person and choosing the best fit is incredibly personal, but this top-rated sneaker has been consistently popular since 1999 for a reason. It offers superior cushioning and stability, and while it’s technically a running shoe, it’s versatile enough for everything from to burpees to lunges to incline treadmill sprints. Reviewers like this version of the Nimbus for its roomy toe box, which is an improvement on previous versions.

Several editors praise the Nimbus 26 for its comfortable fit, describing wearing the shoes as “walking on clouds.” However, some shoppers note that the shoes need a bit of break-in time.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

For product reviews, gift ideas, and latest deals, Subscribe to the Forbes Finds newsletter.

“},”mediumAvatar”:”https://blogs-images.forbes.com/assets/images/avatars/blog-4983_62_6a35ad1b7db9ce9ac885b5f2de5c6338.jpg”,”largestAvatar”:”https://blogs-images.forbes.com/assets/images/avatars/blog-4983_400_6a35ad1b7db9ce9ac885b5f2de5c6338.jpg”,”displayType”:”Forbes Vetted”,”chanSecColor”:”#eb6262″,”showAuthorTypeDisclaimer”:false},”coAuthors”: [{“naturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/5009830″,”allowEmail”:false,”authorType”:”group”,”avatars”:[{“size”:136,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/136×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:40,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/40×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:400,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″},{“size”:62,”image”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″}],”blogName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”bylineFormat”:1,”description”:”

I’m a contributing writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories at Forbes Vetted. I’ve worked in media for 20 years, art directing and designing fashion, beauty, health and tech content for a variety of magazines, websites and brands. Prior to this, I studied magazine journalism at the University of Missouri. When I’m not researching fashion, you’ll find me doing freelance projects, exploring textile and interior design, and rollerskating.

“,”disableCanonical”:false,”disableDigest”:false,”embargo”:false,”enableContribContact”:false,”enableTwitterFeed”:false,”inactive”:false,”metaDescription”:”I’m a contributing writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories at Forbes Vetted. I’ve worked in media for 20 years, art directing and designing fashion, beauty, health and tech content for a variety of magazines, websites and brands. Prior to this, I studied magazine journalism at the University of Missouri. When I’m not researching fashion, you’ll find me doing freelance projects, exploring textile and interior design, and rollerskating.”,”name”:”Becky Eaton”,”primaryBlogNaturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/blog-4983″,”primaryChannel”:{“id”:”channel_94″,”channelId”:”channel_94″,”channelName”:”Forbes Vetted”,”url”:”/vetted”,”showAds”:false,”showLicenseOptions”:false,”showSpreadsheetButton”:false,”enableComments”:false,”hexValue”:”#eb6262″,”secondaryHexValue”:”#ffa0a0″,”showQotd”:false},”primaryChannelId”:”channel_94″,”profileUrl”:”/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/beckyeaton/”,”showNoVestPocket”:false,”slug”:”beckyeaton”,”timestamp”: 1709742515324,”type”:”Contributor”,”url”:”https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/people/beckyeaton/”,”division”:”FC”,”shortBio”:”I’m a writer covering women’s and men’s fashion and accessories. “,”mediumAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/62×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″,”largestAvatar”:”https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/65441d00c72154fec06bd561/400×0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=505&cropY1=10&cropY2=515″,”displayType”:”Contributor”,”chanSecColor”:”#eb6262″,”showAuthorTypeDisclaimer”:true}],”editedBy”:{“id”:”6452a406128a584af916b1f8″,”naturalId”:”blogAuthorId/blog/author/7236363″,”allowEmail”:false,”authorType”:”individual&quo