No. 10 - Innov-8 F-Lite 192
Why we want it: The flat, zero-drop sole is perfect for heavy lifting.
Best for: CrossFit
British running specialists Innov-8 have been killing it with their cross-trainers, and the F-Lite 192 is a perfect example. It’s built to mimic a barefoot feel, with a lightweight yet supportive construction. The medial and lateral panels are reinforced with synthetic overlays, making the F-Lite 192 a smart choice for rope climbing as well. The only drawback is that Innov-8 products can be hard to track down in the States, so you may have to cop these online.
No. 9 - Nike Lunar TR1
Why we want it: The Lunar TR1 is equipped for just about anything you can throw at it.
Best for: Cardio and strength training
If you need a shoe that can handle both cardio and weight training, consider Nike’s Lunar TR1. Its chunky Lunarlon outsole will keep you moving forward on the treadmill, while the supportive Flywire cables ensure your feet stay locked in place during the quickest high intensity transitions.
$120
No. 8 - Reebok CrossFit Nano 4.0
Why we want it: It’s just the right combination of sleek and durable.
Best for: CrossFit
Reebok’s CrossFit range has a number of shoes that could’ve made this list, but we’re really feeling the Nano 4.0. The upper is enhanced with DuraCage and RopePro overlays, which are tough, plastic-like synthetics that will be able to take a beating in the gym. The sporty colorways are appreciated, too.
$120
No. 7 - adidas adipure 360.2 Primo
Why we want it: It’s a trainer that doesn’t look like a trainer, the clean silhouette allows for casual wear.
Best for: Cardio
The adidas adipure 360.2 Primo puts an emphasis on cardio with the look and feel of a runner, but enough durability and support to get the job done in the weight room. The entire upper is built with a ventilated air mesh, making this an ideal choice for cool-downs and recovery, too.
$90
No. 6 - Puma Powerlift
Why we want it: Its futuristic look sets it apart from everything else on the market.
Best for: Weight training
If you’re looking to hit the gym in something a little different from the norm, check out the Puma Powerlift. From its bouncy suspension midsole to its breathable triangular upper pattern, the Puma Powerlift is the kind of shoe that just looks badass. Cap it off with a menacing stealthy colorway and everyone in the gym will know you mean business.
$120
No. 5 - Jordan FlightFlex
Why we want it: Jordan’s latest trainer just may be their best yet.
Best for: Cardio and weight training
Instead of bulking up the upper with unnecessary overlays and materials, the Jordan FlightFlex sticks to the essentials with a no-sew mesh base. Support is delivered by Flawier cables and a molded heel cup for comfortable yet snug lockdown. Down low, the FlightFlex midsole will keep you cushioned from the Ellipticals to deadlifts.
$100
No. 4 - Under Armour Renegade
Why we want it: It’s got plenty of support without weighing you down.
Best for: Weight training
It doesn’t get much more natural than the foot-shaped outsole of the UA Renegade. Above, it’s cushioned with the brand’s Micro G cushioning, which is one of the best energy returning setups around. The upper is constructed with neoprene for a durable and contoured fit, while molded MPZ panels and a midfoot support strap add further lockdown.
No. 3 - adidas RG3 Energy Boost
Why we want it: No matter the surface, Boost is one of our favorite cushioning setups.
Best for: Cardio and weight training
It goes without saying that RG3’s season hasn’t gone exactly as planned. He’s spent much of the last few weeks on the bench, but that doesn’t take away from his stellar signature trainer. It’s equipped with Boost cushioning and the sort of design that future classics are made of. Don’t be surprised to see these in high demand after they inevitably dry up.
$140
No. 2 - Nike Zoom Hypercross TR
Why we want it: Hexagonal Zoom combined with Flywire make this model a beast in the gym.
Best for: CrossFit
When images of the LeBron 12 first leaked, no one was sure what to make of the multicolored pod outsole setup. From the jump, it was one of the most interesting things about the shoe. We soon learned that this was a new form of Zoom Air, built with several strategically placed airbags instead of the traditional heel/forefoot layout. The Zoom Hypercross TR uses the same hexagonal setup for targeted cushioning that is in a class of its own.
$140
No. 1 - New Balance Fresh Foam 80
Why we want it: The Fresh Foam running and trail shoes were great, but these trainers are the best use of the midsole so far.
Best for: Weight training
New Balance’s squishy yet resilient Fresh Foam cushioning started on the road and trails, but now it’s made its way to the gym in the form of the Fresh Foam 80. The mid-top trainer also makes use of an inner bootie for a snug, glove like fit, and its outsole extends through the lateral side for increased support and durability.
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