First thing that one needs to know is that cross training shoes are totally different than running shoes. Hence, you cannot wear your best pair of running or walking shoes for cross training exercises like core boarding, aerobics, step aerobics and kick boxing. Knowing the same fact, there is a whole different range of cross training shoes of various leading footwear and sportswear brands.
Before going through the reviews, one needs to understand the special characteristics of cross training shoes. Good shoes should have shockproof insoles made of rubber, plastic or closed cell nitrogen injected materials, that can return the amount of energy that you generate while exercising. The outsoles should be multipurpose, stabilized for tougher exercises, and with good lateral support, while the upper body and midsole of the shoes should come with moderate to low cushioning near the forefeet and heels. You should also opt for shoes that are lightweight.
Now, consider the kind of cross training exercises for which you want to buy the shoes. For example, purchase lightweight shoes for cardiovascular exercises, mid cut designs with lateral support for step aerobics, and kick boxing. Shoes that are flexible for forefeet movement are the best for treadmill running, and shoes with good cushioning at the heels are the best for aerobics. All in all, opt for those shoes that can provide good stability to the shanks, good support for the feet, and the ones that come with cradles in the heels.
New Balance 622
These shoes come with advanced cushioning technology, additional comfort with compression in heels and forefoot and exceptional shock absorption. Made with breathable materials like leather, injection-molded EVA foam and solid rubber outsole, these shoes are both comfortable and durable. These are the best cross training shoes for men. Average cost of this pair of shoes is around $75.
Skechers Energy – After Burn – Extra Wide Sneakers
These are highly stylized sneakers that are made with breathable leather with webbed eyelet details, soft fabric shoe lining, padded collar and tongue and soft shoe lining. The outsole provides flexible traction, while midsole provides great shock absorption. It comes with cushioned insole and desired width. It is the reason why these are the best cross training shoes for wide feet as well. Average cost is around $45.
Avia A1433
Avia A1433 is available for both men and women. It has comfortable and multiple arched heels, that are shock resistant and comfortable for various cross training exercises. These shoes are made of synthetic leather and mesh and hence they are durable and comfortable. They also come with EVA cushioning and trademark Avia technology that ensures safety and comfort of shanks, mid foot as well as forefoot. Average cost is around $40.
Ryka N-Gage Studio Mid Fitness Shoes
According to most shoes reviews, these are one of the best cross training shoes for women. Made with trademark Nitracel Engager foam, these shoes come with high abrasion rubber outsole. These features provide tighter fit, optimal cushioning, comfortable movement and optimal rebound for energy consuming exercise. Average cost of this pair of shoes is around $75.
There are many other brands that you can consider too, like Nike Men’s Air Max Moto+ 7, Rockport Men’s ‘Astride’ Walking Shoe, Saucony Grid Cohesion 3 LE, New Balance 744 Walking Shoe for Women, Fila Original Fitness Women’s Yoga, etc. The approx. cost of most cross training shoes starts from around $35.
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate, and vary according to location and offers available.
