Ever feel like your feet are screaming after a tough workout? You push hard during burpees and lunges, but your shoes just aren’t keeping up. Choosing the right cross trainer shoes makes a huge difference in how you feel and perform. It’s easy to get overwhelmed staring at all the different brands and features. Which ones give you the best support for jumping? Which ones handle lateral movements without slipping? Finding shoes that truly match your training style can feel like a guessing game, and the wrong pair can lead to sore feet or even injuries.
But what if you could cut through the confusion and find the perfect match for your feet and your workouts? This guide dives deep into the best-rated cross trainer shoes available right now. We break down what makes a shoe great for diverse training, looking closely at stability, cushioning, and grip. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which shoes deserve a spot in your gym bag.
Top Rated Cross Trainer Shoes Recommendations
- COMFORT AND SUPPORT: Utilizes PUMA's SoftFoam+, a step-in comfort sockliner designed to provide soft cushioning thanks to its extra thick heel.
- ENHANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Softride Enzo 5 utilizes our Softride EVA technology that provides extreme cushioning, all-day comfort.
- MODERN CONSTUCTION: Showcases a progressive upper design language, TPU caging and a sleek clamshell construction.
- ICONIC BRANDING: Features iconic PUMA branding on toe, tongue and heel.
- FOREVER BETTER: PUMA is always pushing to be better than we were yesterday. FOREVER BETTER is our commitment to reduce our environmental impact and work together towards a sustainable future. The shoe's upper is made with at least 30% recycled material.
- CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Seasonal fracture graphic on this Tazon Cross-Trainer for a modern look.
- RELIABLE PADDING: Stable cushioning for running and training needs.
- SMOOTH AND SNUG: Sleek, streamlined silhouette with synthetic leather upper and midfoot saddle for maximum fit and comfort.
- SHOCK ABSORPTION: EVA in the heel absorbs impact for added support and comfort.
- With Altra’s signature FootShape fit, you get plenty of room to help your toes move freely, with a secure midfoot.
- An InnerFlex midsole is composed of grid-like grooves designed to provide flexibility and movement.
- This product received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, awarded to products found by the Association to promote good foot health.
- DynaSoft midsole couples ultra-responsive performance with plush comfort
- Upper features no-sew construction for a sleek fit and feel
- Synthetic/textile upper
- Durable rubber outsole
- Adjustable lace closure for a customized fit
- BEST FOR: Sport agility and cross-training workouts + High-intensity workouts and classes.
- PERFORMANCE TECH: RE-ZORB responsive cushioning at the heel for impact protection + Ultra Flex for the ultimate in flexibility.
- MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman's unique foot shape, muscle movement, and build with a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning.
- MATERIALS: Breathable engineered mesh + Durable faux leather toe cap.
- OUTSOLE: Durable rubber sole with flex grooves + Pivot Point for smooth and easy turns.
- Midfoot saddle for maximum fit and comfort
- EVA in the heel absobs impact. TPU shank for increased stability
- Breathable EcoOrthoLite sockliner for optimum fit and comfort
- FuelCell midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward. Bio-based content is made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint.
- Midfoot rubber wraps add increased protection, grip, and durability for rope climbs
- Herringbone rubber outsole design in forefoot and heel provide traction and durability
- Minimus construction combined with premium liners provide sock-free option
- 4 mm drop; due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 4 mm drop are approximate
- Moulded heel clip offers support
- Webbing eyelets offer dynamic containment
- Rubber tread in high-wear areas gives you durable traction
- Highly durable
- Elegant design
Choosing Your Perfect Rated Cross Trainer Shoes: A Buyer’s Guide
Cross training demands a lot from your footwear. You jump, lift, run, and pivot—all in one workout! Finding the right “Rated Cross Trainer Shoes” means you need a shoe that can handle everything. This guide helps you pick the best pair.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good cross trainers offer a balance of support and flexibility. Pay close attention to these parts:
- Stability and Support: Look for a shoe with a firm heel counter. This keeps your foot locked in place during heavy lifts.
- Midsole Cushioning: You need some cushion for running intervals, but not too much. Too much soft foam makes lifting wobbly. Look for responsive cushioning that springs back quickly.
- Lateral Support: This is crucial for side-to-side movements like lunges or agility drills. The sides of the shoe must be strong to prevent your foot from rolling over.
- Flex Grooves in the Forefoot: These grooves allow your toes to bend naturally when you sprint or jump.
2. Important Materials Matter
The materials used directly affect how long the shoe lasts and how it performs.
Upper Materials:
Most quality trainers use a combination of breathable mesh and synthetic overlays. Mesh keeps your feet cool. Overlays (often TPU or strong plastic) wrap around the shoe to add structure and durability where you need it most, like around the laces and toe box.
Outsole (The Bottom):
The rubber on the bottom needs excellent grip. Look for a durable carbon rubber. The tread pattern should be multi-directional, meaning it grips well whether you are moving forward, backward, or sideways.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the brand name. It’s about construction.
What Improves Quality:
- Flat, Wide Base: A wider base in the heel area provides a solid platform for lifting weights.
- Durable Stitching: Reinforced stitching, especially where the upper meets the sole, means the shoe will not fall apart quickly.
- Secure Lacing System: The laces must lock your foot down without creating painful pressure points.
What Reduces Quality:
- Excessive Soft Foam: While comfortable for walking, too much soft foam in the midsole causes instability during exercises like squats or box jumps.
- Thin, Stretchy Uppers: If the upper material stretches too much, you lose essential support during quick cuts.
- Poorly Glued Soles: If the outsole seems lightly glued on, it will likely peel away after heavy use.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you do most often in your workouts.
High-Impact Workouts (Plyometrics, HIIT):
You need excellent shock absorption and strong lateral containment. A slightly heavier, more structured shoe often works best here.
Weightlifting Focus:
Prioritize ground feel and stability. Look for shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop (meaning the heel isn’t much higher than the toe) and a very firm midsole. Some lifters even prefer minimal cushioning.
Mixed Training (The “Do-It-All” Shoe):
If you truly mix running, lifting, and agility, search for shoes marketed as “hybrid trainers.” These shoes balance responsiveness with stability perfectly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Rated Cross Trainer Shoes
Q: Are cross trainers good for long-distance running?
A: No. Cross trainers lack the specialized, thick cushioning needed to protect your joints over many miles. They are best for short sprints or runs under a mile during a workout.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a quality pair?
A: Quality pairs usually start around $100 and can go up to $160 or more. Shoes under $90 often sacrifice durability or support.
Q: How do I know if the shoe fits correctly?
A: You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your heel should not slip when you walk or jump.
Q: What does “lateral support” mean?
A: Lateral support means the shoe resists forces pushing your foot sideways. This stops your ankle from rolling during side shuffles or quick pivots.
Q: Can I use my old running shoes for cross training?
A: You can, but it is not recommended. Running shoes are built for forward motion and are too soft in the heel for stable lifting.
Q: Do I need to “break in” cross trainers?
A: Most modern trainers require very little break-in time. They should feel comfortable and supportive right out of the box, especially in the upper materials.
Q: What is the “heel drop”?
A: The heel drop is the difference in height between the heel cushion and the forefoot cushion. Lower drops (4mm or less) are better for lifting stability.
Q: How often should I replace my cross trainers?
A: If you train intensely three to five times a week, replace them every 6 to 9 months. Look for worn-down treads or squashed cushioning.
Q: Are wide-fit options available?
A: Yes. Many popular brands offer wide (2E) versions. If your feet feel pinched, always size up to a wide fit rather than just buying a longer shoe.
Q: Should the sole be completely flat?
A: For maximum stability in lifting, a flatter sole is better. However, a hybrid shoe will have slight curvature for better running performance.