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The 14 Best Workout Shoes for Women, According to ELLE Editors
You know we’d never give you a bad recommendation, right?
Let us start by saying this: well done. You’re here, which means you either already exercise or are looking to start, so good for you. Way to take care of your body and mind!
Arguably, summer is the perfect season to up your fitness game—just think about all the things you can do inside and outside. From HIIT to weight training, there’s no shortage of ways to work out. It’s a matter of finding a type of exercise that you enjoy, and there’s certainly something for everyone. Whatever method of movement you choose, it’s crucial to pay attention to how you’re moving. As in, how’s your form? It might sound like a question reserved for gym rats and fitness snobs, but for the sake of safety, it’s important to keep it in mind. Seriously, it’s worth your time to make sure you’re working out right—dotting your i’s, crossing your t’s, racking your weights. And in 2023, good form starts from the ground up, so let’s talk about the best workout shoes.
With the right support, sole, and structure, the shoes you exercise in can help you maintain good posture and form. Ideally, they’ll be comfortable, too, and in a perfect world, they might even be stylish. Some days, it feels like there are countless distractions and excuses to convince yourself to skip the gym. Factor in workout clothes that cause pain or discomfort, and your odds of getting any physical activity dwindle faster than Netflix will auto-play the next episode. If given the chance, the right exercise shoe could completely change your fitness game. Who knows, maybe you would actually enjoy jogging if you swapped out that old pair of white sneakers.
Here, find a list of gym shoes that come highly recommended by yours truly here at ELLE—along with some input from a pro, Team USA Track & Field star Colleen Quigley, to help guide you while you shop. Trust us, these are the best workout shoes to wear for your next sweat sesh.
Nike Women’s Downshifter 11 Running Sneakers
Nike Women’s Downshifter 11 Running Sneakers
Pros
- Comfortable
Cons
- Runs small
“I run, walk, and even strut in these sneakers. As someone that goes to the gym three times a week, I have now owned two pairs of this exact shoe model, because if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Not to mention, I think the white pair makes my legs look longer. Optical illusion? Perhaps. But one thing is for certain, these are incredibly comfortable.”—Leah Romero, senior digital designer
Customer review: “These sneakers are very supportive and comfortable. Not too narrow like many Nike sneakers. Nice cushion without feeling too squishy. Good for both walking and running.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 7 options |
Sorel Women’s Kinetic™ Breakthru Day Lace Sneaker
Pros
- True to size
- Comfortable
Cons
- Narrow fit
“These Sorel sneakers are surprisingly comfortable and have great arch support; my pair fits me like a glove. They’re perfect if your workouts, like mine, mostly consist of leisurely walks around the neighborhood for a quick break from screen time.”—Erica Gonzales, senior culture editor
Customer review: “I usually have knee pains when I’m on my feet for a long time, but when I used them on my first short walk, my feet did not feel tired. Great shoes, definitely recommend!”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 4 options |
Nike Nike Women’s Free TR 8 Training Shoes
Pros
- Good grip
- Supportive
Cons
- Run small
This shoe has a barely-there feel compared to others. It’s still supportive, but in a subtle way, which makes it a favorite among people with neutral to flat feet, for whom arch support can sometimes feel excessive. Its versatility also makes it a good option for anyone who likes to alternate and experiment with various types of workouts.
Customer review: “Great shoes for lifting. They have a snug fit and grip the floor really well!!”
| Sizes | US 5-15 |
|---|---|
| Colors | Black/Laser Fuchsia and Pure Platinum/Igloo/White |
Asics Gel Resolution 8 Tennis Shoe
Pros
- Good grip
Cons
- Irregular sizing
“Love” calls to mind the game of tennis, and players are guaranteed to fall hard for these shoes that are perfect for court sports (pickleball, anyone?). Tennis pros recommend these for players of all levels. The design features added stability around the heel to help you feel secure as you dart from side to side. They’re also reinforced at the toes, so they won’t wear out. Gel cushioning absorbs shock and impact, leaving you primed and ready for your next match.
Customer review: “Love these! Good support, light, and they are perfect for my narrow foot. my favorite shoe!”
| Sizes Available | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color | 13 options |
Pros
- Comfortable
- Great for walking
Cons
- Tight fit
“This is my tried-and-true long-distance walking shoe. My husband and I got fairly obsessed with hitting 10,000-plus steps every day throughout the pandemic, and this shoe has been there every step of the way. The thing I like most about it is the thick, squishy insole—what New Balance calls cush+—that makes me feel like I’m wearing a slipper while working out.”—Kayla Adler, deputy editor
Customer review: “Love the fit and comfort of this shoe! I walk most days and can count on this shoe to be comfortable for the duration of my walk.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | Black, White, and Blue |
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Runs small
“With a misshapen spine and herniated discs, high arches, and arthritis in one of my feet, my skeletal system is all-caps WONKY. I have to be extra mindful about my form and technique when exercising, especially with something as high-impact as running, or else I could lateral lunge my way into some serious pain. New Balances have been recommended to me by doctors, chiropractors, and even sports medicine professionals. These have a very thick sole and are super structured, keeping my foot and ankle in place as I trot along.”—Meg Donohue, associate fashion commerce editor
Customer review: “I am a nurse and 12 long hours shifts are the name of the game. This sneaker did not require breaking in. They fit perfectly, true to size!”
| Sizes | US 5-11.5 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 10 options |
Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Women’s Running Shoe
Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Women’s Running Shoe
Pros
- Cute
- Multi-purpose
Cons
- Minimal arch support
This is the second iteration of Lululemon’s running shoe, and fitness fanatics are still loving it. The Blissfeel 2 running sneaker has a soft underfoot and a cushioned upper for ultimate comfort. Quigley specifically recommends the shoe for people who run outside or in cities because “it’s a substantial enough shoe to protect your feet and your joints from all the pounding on the pavement,” she tells ELLE.com.
Customer review: “I am on my feet for 12 hours and have tried many pairs of shoes. I have yet to find a pair that actually keep my feet comfortable until these! They not only look cute but they feel amazing. Thinking of purchasing more!”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 11 options |
Hoka Kawana
Hoka Kawana
Pros
- Comfortable
Cons
“Pre-pandemic, I thoroughly enjoyed workout classes. Now, my increased germophobia has me mostly exercising at home. These Hoka Kawanas are light and cushiony enough to not annoy my downstairs neighbor and still look cool enough to wear outside of my apartment.”—Claire Stern, digital deputy editor
| Sizes | US 6-10 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 5 options |
On Cloudventure Waterproof Trail Sneaker
On Cloudventure Waterproof Trail Sneaker
Pros
- Good grip
- Waterproof
Cons
- Minimal bounce
Taking your workout to the great outdoors? When it comes to hiking and trail running shoes, look for secure traction and solid durability. This pair is completely waterproof, so they’re ready for the elements and have plenty of cushion to keep you comfortable. They’re still lightweight, though, so you don’t have to sacrifice your speed or reactivity.
Customer review: “About a year ago, I started to train for half marathons. I live in Wisconsin, so to avoid training on treadmills, I suck it up and run outside in the winter. In the spring, I bought the On Cloudflyer (read about On in a magazine and was intrigued!) and FELL IN LOVE! I boast about the comfort and durability of these shoes to ALL my friends.”
| Sizes | US 5-11 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 5 options |
Under Armour Project Rock 5 Iron Paradise Training Shoes
Under Armour Project Rock 5 Iron Paradise Training Shoes
Pros
- Durable
- Supportive
Cons
- Has a higher arch
Calling all weightlifters! Here’s another flat-soled pair that will allow you to stay in control. Made for lifting, these feature stabilizing straps and Under Armour’s TriBase design, which aims to mimic the way your bare foot would grip the ground.
Customer review: “I have been a fan of this Project Rock shoe for years, and I have to say that the latest collection 5 is the best yet...it offers all the latest features and technologies to enhance the performance and comfort of the wearer. I highly recommend this shoe to anyone looking for a high-quality and top-performing training shoe.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color | Tin/Deco Rose |
Adidas Ultraboost 22 Running Shoes
Adidas Ultraboost 22 Running Shoes
Pros
- Comfortable
- Cushy
- Lightweight
Cons
- Narrow across the toe box
Marathon runners love to sport this sneaker when racking up the miles. The sock-like fit and seamless design maximize comfort. Meanwhile, added heel support and energy return technology help optimize your stride and pace.
Customer review: “Only sneakers I will wear for running!! So comfortable, and I NEVER get blisters.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 21 options |
Brooks Ghost 14
Pros
- Comfortable
- Arch support
Cons
- Runs big
“I’m obsessed with my Ghost Brooks running shoes. They’ve lasted me for years. Super cushiony, and they work for sidewalk runs as well as treadmill jogs. Can’t recommend these enough!”—Rose Minutaglio, senior writer/editor
Customer review: “They fit very true to size. They are unbelievably comfortable right out of the box.”
| Sizes | US 5-13 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 20 options |
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 FlyEase
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 FlyEase
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Velcro closure adds bulk
“I live and die by my Nike Pegasus sneakers. I bought them when I started running more than five years ago, and have since cycled through at least a half dozen pairs as the miles added up. They’re comfy enough for half marathon training but also cute enough to wear around town for errands.”—Jessica Roy, digital director
Customer review: “If you are looking for a nice, comfortable, lightweight running shoe, then the Zoom Pegasus FlyEase is it. It really feels like you are running on clouds.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Colors | Brown, White, and Black |
Nike Women’s Metcon Training Shoes
Nike Women’s Metcon Training Shoes
Pros
- Supportive
Cons
- Runs small
“I’m flat-footed and pronate, so it’s super hard for me to find good workout shoes. I love the Nike Metcons! They support my foot and ankle, so I’m able to workout confidently and with ease.”—Danielle James, digital beauty director
Customer review: “Usually, I lift weights in my running shoes, but these have changed my mind. The second I put them on, I felt support exactly where I needed it.”
| Sizes | US 5-12 |
|---|---|
| Color | 9 options |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in workout sneakers?
- Comfort. The first thing Quigley shares as advice is to choose a shoe that feels comfortable to you.“Everyone is different, so instead of getting caught up in what’s ‘supposed’ to feel good for you, try to find something that feels good on your feet,” she says.
- Usage. The track star emphasizes that thinking about what you’ll be doing in them (including your preferred type of workout) is key. “Are you looking for a running shoe? A hiking shoe for rough trails? Or maybe a shoe that you can both lift weights in [and] also go for a short run? There are shoes out there for all of those activities!”
How should I shop according to my arches?
- You might need to find a pair of inserts, depending on the type of support you need, according to Quigley. Most shoes, she says, are meant for the “middle-of-the-road arch.”
- For those with plantar fasciitis, the pro runner recommends you massage or ice the calves and then strengthen your foot muscles.
Do I need to go to a specialty store?
- For runners, Quigley suggests finding a specialty store, so you can be properly fitted with the appropriate shoes. “Some specialty running stores have force plates that measure where you put weight through your feet and they might have a treadmill where they can take a video of you walking or running, so you can get more info on how you move and which shoe might be best to support your needs.”
Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different. Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country. Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.
Emma is a Freelance Fashion Assistant at ELLE Magazine. She thinks listening to electronic music, wearing all black, and stopping for something sweet are always good ideas.
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