10 Best Workout Shoes 2025 in the United States

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed to provide ample support and comfort for your workouts. With a leather upper, the shoe promises durability and a snug fit, although leather might not be the most breathable material, potentially leading to sweaty feet during intense workouts.

The ABZORB midsole cushioning is a standout feature, offering excellent shock absorption for those high-impact activities, ensuring your feet are well-protected and comfortable. Additionally, the premium PU comfort insert adds another layer of cushioning, making it suitable for prolonged wear. The rubber sole provides good traction which is essential for stability during various exercises.

However, the shoe's flexibility might be somewhat limited due to the leather construction and robust cushioning. This could be a consideration for exercises requiring a lot of foot movement. At 2.4 pounds, the shoes are somewhat heavy compared to other workout shoes, which might make them less ideal for activities like running where lighter footwear is preferred. The New Balance 608 V5 is a solid option for those prioritizing support and durability over breathability and weight in their workout shoes.

The New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer offers several valuable features for a workout shoe. Its PU foam insert, lightweight EVA foam midsole, and NB Soft + Supportive Comfort Insert promise long-lasting comfort and support, making it an excellent choice for extended wear. The internal midsole shank adds midfoot structure, enhancing support, which is crucial during various types of workouts.

The Phantom Liner interior, which has minimal seaming, helps reduce irritation, contributing to overall comfort. With a leather outer material and rubber sole, these shoes are likely to be durable, though the leather may impact breathability compared to mesh materials. The weight is relatively light due to the EVA foam midsole, which should help prevent fatigue during long sessions.

However, the leather construction might limit flexibility and breathability, which can be a concern during intensive workouts. The traction provided by the rubber sole is beneficial for stability, though it’s worth noting that leather can be less flexible than synthetic materials. Ideal for those looking for a supportive and comfortable shoe for light to moderate workouts, but may not be the best fit for high-intensity training where maximum flexibility and breathability are required.

The Nike Women's Air Max 270 in White/Black is a stylish workout shoe that offers several strengths. The outer material is synthetic mesh, which ensures good breathability, keeping your feet cool during workouts. The fit is comfortable and true to size, thanks to the lace closure system, which allows for easy adjustments. Support is decent, given the design and the construction of the shoe, which can help in various workout scenarios. However, the sole material being plastic may not provide the best traction on all surfaces.

It performs adequately on gym floors but may not be ideal for outdoor activities that require more grip. The synthetic materials used contribute to the shoe's flexibility, allowing natural foot movement, which is great for various exercises. Durability is a mixed bag; while synthetic materials typically last, the plastic sole might wear down faster with regular use.

The weight of the shoe is relatively light at 3 pounds, making it easy to move in without feeling weighed down. These shoes are a good choice for indoor workouts and light outdoor activities, but if you need high traction or plan on intense outdoor use, you might want to consider other options.