June 21 is right around the corner, and it’s already beginning to feel like summer in most of the US. By now, you’ve probably hit your fitness goals and can’t wait to hit the beach and show off the results of all the hard work. But don’t get too complacent, because lying around at the pool and slacking off all day can show its effects just as quickly.
Looking to cool off? Take your workout indoors to a nice air conditioned gym to catch a break from the sweltering heat and humidity. If you’re coming from a run, swim, or game of hoops, you’ll want to be sure to swap your kicks for something more gym-friendly. Whether you’re a high intensity training fanatic, love to log cardio miles, or just want to pump some iron, there’s a cross-training sneaker that will suit your summer needs. These are The Best Summer Training Shoes.
Riley Jones is a freelance writer from Charlottesville, VA and a contributor to Sneaker Report. With an unshakable affinity for basketball and all things pop culture, he can be found on Twitter @rchrstphr.
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No. 10 – Reebok CrossFit Lite TR
Recommended use: power lifting
HIIT devotees have been praising the Converse Chuck Taylor for quite some time now. Its flat, simple, and low to the ground sole makes it ideal for power lifting, which doesn’t involve much lateral movement or transition. Accordingly, Reebok have taken a page from the classic model for the CrossFit Lite Trainer. Light on tech but heavy on durability, the Reebok CrossFit Lite TR will hold you down.
No. 9 – Under Armour Gridiron TR
Recommended use: Football conditioning
Football season will be here before you know it, and any dedicated player knows all about summer days spent training. Get the most out of your offseason with these UA trainers, which are loaded with full-length Micro G cushioning to put an extra spring in your step. The neoprene-like upper is designed to wrap the foot snugly, while a lockdown strap ensures you’ll stay in place.
No. 8 – adidas adipure 360.2
Recommended use: Cardio, core workouts
Built with the quickness of a runner and the support and durability of a trainer, the adidas adipure 360.2 is ideal for cardio. It’s built with a breathable, seamless upper and features forefoot flex grooves for a smooth and natural ride.
$100
No. 7 – Nike Finger Trap Free
Recommended use: Weightlifting, cardio, core workouts
Nike stumbled upon a winner with the Free Trainer 5.0, and now the unique design has evolved into the Finger Trap Free. Constructed with the same innovative upper that moves and flexes accordingly with the foot, the cushioning has been upgraded in the form of a chunky Air Max bubble in the heel. This helps soften the blow of high impact landings, while the Free tooling keeps things moving smoothly.
No. 6 – Jordan Dominate Pro 2
Recommended use: Football conditioning, weight lifting
The Jordan Dominate Pro 2 continues where the Trunner line left off, delivering the perfect balance of a runner and trainer. This time around, the Dominate Pro 2 is built for serious lockdown and support, with an inner bootie and lockdown strap for added stability. But the real star feature of the Dominate Pro 2 is its Flight Plate technology, which serves to enhance Zoom Air cushioning for next level responsiveness.
No. 5 – New Balance Minimus 00
Recommended use: Cardio, weightlifting, core workouts
If you prefer a low-to-the-ground feel, the NB Minimus 00 is your answer. It’s not a full-on barefoot shoe, so you’ll still have plenty of cushioning and protection in the weight room. The FantomFit upper is designed to fit the natural shape of the foot, delivering the sensation of wearing nothing at all so you can focus on your workout.
No. 4 – Inov-8 F-Lite 252
Recommended use: Power lifting
Innov-8 has become known for their specialized CrossFit and weight training products, and the F-Lite 252 is a perfect example of why. The F-Lite 252’s midsole features rubber overlays to provide extra traction, and the 3mm heel-to-toe ratio keeps you low to the ground for full contact and power. If you’ve been wanting to try out Innov-8’s footwear, the F-Lite 252 is a great option for serious lifters, and it’s currently on sale.
No. 3 – Under Armour Highlight TR
Recommended use: Football conditioning, weight lifting
Built with the same cushioned Micro G midsole of the Cam Highlight Trainer, the new Highlight TR strips away the CompFit ankle sleeve in favor of Clutch Fit technology for a second-skin fit around the whole foot. Meanwhile, the outsole’s Speed Turf Traction design will excel during turf training, but is also suitable for the gym.
No. 2 – Nike Hyperfeel TR
Recommended use: Cardio, weight lifting
Nike’s Flyknit technology has been applied to everything from casual models like the Lunar Chukka to high-end hoops shoes like the Kobe 9 Elite, but its best trainer version thus far is the Hyperfeel TR. The slim outsole makes use of Free technology for extra flex, while a Lunarlon insert provides soft cushioning and helps keep the outer tooling to a minimum. Meanwhile, an aggressive Flyknit pattern provides plenty of airflow and a sock-like feel, while Flywire cables add extra support.
No. 1 – Reebok CrossFit Nano 2.0
Recommended use: Cardio, weight lifting
Picking up where the original Nano left off, Reebok has tweaked the model to help CrossFitters tackle their WODs with more efficiency. Improvements include added flex and breathability, but the key here is its low profile EVA midsole, which Reebok describes as providing a soccer-like feel. This helps to keep you in contact with the ground for smooth weight transfer and on your toes, while DuraGrip overlays protect the toe area from abrasions. The Reebok CrossFit Nano 2.0 is a simple yet spectacular performer.
Riley Jones is a freelance writer from Charlottesville, VA and a contributor to Sneaker Report. With an unshakable affinity for basketball and all things pop culture, he can be found on Twitter @rchrstphr.
RELATED: The 10 Best Sneakers for High Intensity Training
RELATED: The 10 Best Trainers of the Year (So Far)