9 best gym trainers for women – for HIIT, weights and cardio classes
I hear you're looking for the best gym trainers for women? Well, I'm an editor with almost a decade worth of experience working out and testing fitness products (trust me: I've reviewed hundreds) – so I'm well-placed to recommend your most comfortable gym trainer purchase ever. Whether you’re regularly hitting the weight section of the gym or doing a cardio-heavy HIIT class.
Alongside fellow fitness-obsessed Glamour staffers, I've tried and tested practically every sweat-inducing gym class in London (from Barry’s Bootcamp and 1Rebel to The Foundry, Third Space and Psycle). One conclusion rings truest: wearing the same pair of running trainers you rely on at the weekend for Parkrun sadly won’t cut it when it comes to squats, deadlifts and burpees (and, spoiler: neither will that old pair of Stan Smiths).
Instead, I want to show you the pairs that we actually wear for working out: the styles that have all the functionality of the best gym trainers (think durability, responsiveness and versatility) as well as strong style credentials. Because we want our trainers to work with our favourite pair of leggings, don't we? Ahead, everything you need to know.
Meet the expert:
- Nancy Best is founder of Ladies Who Crunch, an all-women's online training platform. As a PT who spends most of her time training other women or herself, she knows what works in the gym. So, of course, Nancy knows how to find the best trainers for women that will serve you well across all types of workouts, tried and tested by so many women who love to train – whether it's crossfit, the treadmill, Hiit, at-home squats or some road running.
Featured in this article:
How we tested the best gym trainers:
The gym trainers included in this guide are all styles that the experts have either tried themselves or have been highly recommended by fellow sporty women. Each pair has been tested across different workouts for a number of sessions across a few weeks, so we've really put them to the test.
We made sure to wear them for what they're good at (so, running trainers for running and strength trainers for strength training), and we scored each pair on comfort, design, innovation, breathability and size range.
We've managed to make a concise edit when it comes to the best gym trainers for women. We also tried a lot of other pairs that didn't quite reach our standards. You'll find our experts' thoughts on the best gym trainers for women below. Read more about how we test fitness launches here.
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Why you can trust us:
There are multiple contributors to this guide to the best gym trainers: Sophie Cockett, Georgia Trodd, Karina Marriott, Alice Barraclough and Chloe Gray.
Alice Barraclough is a Nutrition Editor and long-time runner (she competed in an Iron Man competition a few years back), so she knows a thing or two about the best running trainers that are grippy, have shock absorption and perfectly placed cushioning to make sure you don't get blisters. Chloe Gray is a health and fitness editor who teaches strength classes at gyms across London – so she's equally up to date with the latest gym trainer launches (you'll want to see the ON Cloudpulse Pro).
On the Glamour team, Sophie, Georgia and Karina have personally tested a few bestsellers, stylish gym trainers and the pairs you'll also happily run in and also run errands in. Between them, they've worked in publishing for over fifteen years and have tested hundreds of products throughout their careers.
Ahead, my full edit of best gym trainers for women according to gym-goers.
Why we love them: Firstly, these ON trainers are, of course, very aesthetically pleasing. Sleek, just the right amount of chunky and in a soft powder blue, these will elevate all your gym outfits.
When it comes to working out, they're best for strength training and lifting thanks to the super stable and supportive design that keeps you gripped to the ground.
The Cloudpulse Pro has only just launched, so they haven't been tested or backed by many gym-goers as yet, but we can confirm they're a style to go for if you're on the lookout for new sneakers. With Cloudtec in the toe, they keep the style feeling cushioned and supported throughout without feeling too tight or compressed. With Missiongrip technology, they're also designed to stop any mid-workout wobbles after a hard workout session.
- Colours available: Blue, black and white.
- Sizes available: UK 3-9.
- Pros: Brand new style that's stable and supportive.
- Cons: Not many people have tried them as they're so new, so not the most popular style as yet.
VEJA Condor 3 Advanced Sneakers
Why we love them: Veja is known for putting sustainability first, so we, of course, love the fact that these are made from recycled materials made with ethical practices in place. This, and the fact they're as functional as they are fun with the bold colourway and dynamic plate giving stability and dynamism.
“Virtually all of my workout shoes are plain in colour – i.e. white or black – so I wanted something that'd make getting to the gym a bit more fun, and these do just the trick. I find they're a bit too chunky for when I'm doing things like weightlifting, but for the treadmill, stair master or training, they're spot on. They're also the perfect running trainers, designed for outdoors with a dynamic plate and a responsive sole which makes them sturdy and have grip. I've worn them on the weekends a few times with leggings, too.” – Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior Commerce Editor.
- Colours available: 6 colours.
- Sizes available: UK 3-8.
- Pros: Made from sustainable, recycled materials, including sugarcane.
- Cons: Chunky soles mean they're not as good for balance.
Women's Chargefeel 3 Workout Shoe
Why we love them: A hybrid training and running trainer, this do-it-all pair by much-loved Lululemon is a firm favourite. The layered upper has breathability, flexibility and support while the moulded heel clip keeps your feet in place as you move. Add to this that they're one of the most lightweight trainers we've ever tried, and you get a dream pair.
“I wore these at a HIIT class with Lululemon for a work event, and they instantly felt super lightweight and easy to move around in. When you look down at your feet, they can make your feet look wider, but they don't seem to from other angles, so it's just the larger sole. I've worn them a lot since and I appreciate how you can slip them on, instead of having to faff around undoing the laces. They do run very small compared to any other trainers I've tried, though, I'm a UK 5 and I had to go a whole size up for them to fit properly.” – Harriet Davey, freelance fashion editor.
- Colours available: 4.
- Sizes available: UK 3.5-9.5.
- Pros: Lightweight and breathable.
- Cons: They run small due to US sizing.
Save when you shop for the best gym trainers with these Lululemon discount codes at checkout.
Nike Metcon 9 Women's Training Shoes
Why we love them: Developed as a cross-training shoe, the Metcon 9 is the latest version of Nike's best-loved trainer for tough workouts, gym sessions and classes where you typically make a lot of sharp, aggressive and lateral movements. It features a flat sole for stability during weightlifting exercises and a flexible forefoot for agility during functional exercises.
“The Metcon 9 also has a sturdy upper that can handle rope climbs, box jumps, and other demanding movements. I often like to switch it up and perform a variety of exercises in the gym, and this is a shoe that can handle the demands of all my workouts. This version also features the Easy On fit — a flexible heel that collapses when you step in then snaps back into place — to make them easy to put on and take off.” – Georgia Trodd, Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer.
- Colours available: 9 colours.
- Sizes available: UK 2.5-12.5.
- Pros: Durable. Offers excellent stability for weightlifting. Versatile shoe that can handle a variety of exercises, making it a good option for those who like to mix up their training routine.
- Cons: On the pricer side compared to other cross-training shoes.
Save when you shop for the best gym trainers with these Nike discount codes at checkout.
Women's UA Dynamic 2 Training Shoes
Why we love them: UA Dynamic is basically the ultimate training shoe in our opinion, and it's perfect for those who love to play team sports. It gives you everything a running trainer has (bounce, cushioning, grippy sole) combined with the support of a weightlifting trainer, so you can wear them across your favourite workouts without having to splurge on multiple pairs.
The Dynamic 2 trainer is also very soft yet supportive, so the stretchy details allow you to slip the gym trainers on when you're in a hurry. The midsole is also responsive so it'll stay comfortable, the flow technology creates a sleek, lightweight sole that'll keep you light on your feet as you undergo your favourite workout.
- Colours available: Black and white, white, brown.
- Sizes available: UK 2.5-9.5.
- Pros: Lightweight, good grip and look sleek.
- Cons: More basic in design compared to other specialist trainers.
Save when you shop for the best gym trainers with these Under Armour discount codes at checkout.
Why we love them: Featuring Adidas' renowned ‘Boost’ midsole, these shoes are designed for high-performance activities and offer extra spring in any jumping exercise, a durable and flexible outsole and a supportive upper that helps lock in the foot.
They’re also made with sustainable materials and production methods, making them a great choice for those who are looking to reduce their environmental impact. And can we all agree that an all-black trainer is such a sensible choice? Unlike white, these will stay looking cleaner for longer so you'll end up getting more wear out of these gym trainers.
- Colours available: Black, black and white, khaki (Adidas by Stella McCartney).
- Sizes available: UK 3-17.
- Pros: Super stylish and sustainable for high-impact workouts.
- Cons: Limited colour options, expensive.
Save when you shop for the best gym trainers with these Adidas discount codes at checkout.
Why we love them: These trainers are such an all-rounder – great for running and the gym, brunch or even a supermarket dash. With a wide base, cushioned midsole and great heel support, it really strikes the balance between comfort and resilience.
Perfect for those who need extra shock absorption and stability during their workouts, like treadmill runners and HIIT-ers. The Kawana shoes are also lightweight and have a breathable upper, so they won't make your feet feel sweaty or give you blisters when you're a busy woman on the go.
- Colours available: 8 colours.
- Sizes available: UK 3.5-9.5.
- Pros: Cushioned midsole means they’re great for high-impact activities, and offer a supportive and secure fit.
- Cons: Some users may find that they lack proper arch support.
Why we love them: The Gel-Challenger 14 has a supportive upper to keep your feet firmly in place when you workout, Dynawing technology in the sidewall to keep you stable when you exercise and a clever separated heel to keep you in place even when you experience a strong landing during playing tennis, padel or any other kind of sports that tickles your fancy – yes, they're that versatile.
“This minimalist pair of shoes might technically be for padel, but I find they're a great all-rounder shoe when it comes to the gym, too. They're pretty flat, which makes them great for lifting weights when you need your balance, but the grippy soles also mean I can do a HIIT class without falling over. They're my go-tos.” – Karina Marriott, freelancer.
- Colours available: White and silver, white and purple, black and orange.
- Sizes available: UK 3-10.
- Pros: The outsoles feature a separated heel construction to help you experience better stability during abrupt landings.
- Cons: Not the coolest colours to choose from.
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Why we love them: Yes we've already featured the Nike Metcon 9, but the Metcon 6 is a bestseller, raved about by so many gym-goers so it would be rude not to include them, too. As one of the lightest, most comfortable and breathable pairs around, it's no wonder there's endless glowing reviews.
“This year, I've been religiously going to the gym 3-4 times a week and this is the trainer I've been wearing each time. I get blisters from any shoes easily, but these haven't ever rubbed my feet or toes no matter which gym workout I do. I also like how they can be easily slipped on when I'm in a rush to get to the gym or a class. They feel really light and not at all heavy even when I'm battling the stairmaster, and they have good grip when I move over from cardio to weights. And they're also so sleek, even though I didn't realise they had a silver glittery heart on the back – 9 year old me would think this part is cool, so I've embraced it. A lot of the other colours don't have this, though, so you can choose one without if you want to avoid the sparkles.” Harriet Davey – freelance fashion editor.
- Colours available: 9 colours.
- Sizes available: UK 3-9.
- Pros: A Nike bestseller and loved by many gym-goers.
- Cons: The all white fabric material can get dirty quickly.
What's the difference between running shoes and gym trainers?
Running shoes are primarily designed to provide shock absorption and support forward movement (while still remaining lightweight so you can fly across the road, trails or track), so they tend to have more cushioning in the heel and forefoot. They also tend to have more arch support than gym trainers (to help prevent injuries) and are generally more flexible, to help with the foot's natural movement during running. “To avoid joint pain, we want trainers that will absorb some of the impact of cardio exercise, with adequate support on the heel, ankle and arch of the foot. Whether you’re doing a burpee, or sprinting around a track, you need a lightweight trainer that won’t weigh you down,” explains Nancy.
Gym trainers, on the other hand, are usually flatter and have less cushioning, with a lower heel-toe drop and provide more support to the heel and ankle – this is to allow for better stability during, for example, weightlifting. They can be worn for HIIT, weightlifting, strength training, basketball, tennis, dance classes, Crossfit, Aerobics and more. Some gym trainers, especially the ones designed for functional training (think: box jumps and plyometrics), will have more cushioning and more flexible soles than shoes designed purely for weightlifting.
“For building functional movement patterns in strength training, we want to optimise stability. Specialist trainers, like Metcons, are supportive for your ankles, without overly cushioning your arches. They also ensure that you can grip properly through your feet, for compound movements like deadlifts,” says Nancy.
So, in answer to the common question, ‘Can I wear running trainers to the gym?’, the short answer is yes… if you plan on running on a treadmill or doing an intense cardio workout at the gym. However, if you plan to lift weights, do strength training, circuit training or any form of hybrid workout, running trainers might not be best. That's because gym trainers and running shoes are designed for different types of activities, so naturally look and feel rather different.
How do you choose the best gym trainers?
The best trainers for the gym really depends on the specific type of exercise you will be doing. For example, if you’re hitting the treadmill, you’ll want a pair of the best running shoes specifically designed for running, while if HIIT is more your thing, you might be better off with cross-training shoes that offer a steady footing during squats, burpees and reverse lunges – while also being stylish enough to wear with jeans on rest days, too.
Elsewhere, if you are going to be doing a lot of weightlifting, you may want to consider a weightlifting shoe with a flat, hard sole for stability. The most important thing is to choose a workout shoe that’s comfortable and supportive – and make sure that your gym trainers have non-marking outsoles (‘cos no one wants to be seen scuffing up a pristine gym floor).
Choosing the right trainers is important, says Nancy: “Wearing the correct footwear for a workout is a game changer, for both performance and injury prevention. On a basic level, wearing shoes in a gym environment protects your feet, if someone was to drop a weight nearby. On a more macro level, whether you’re trying to perfect your barbell squat, or run a 10k PB, your shoes can either elevate or detract from your goal."
The best gym trainers for you depend on your activity of choice, but in general, you’ll want to ask yourself the following:
- How comfortable are they? Can you move your toes? Does your heel slip? Do they give you blisters?
- Does your arch feel supported? Are the laces tight? Is there enough cushioning around your midfoot to reduce the chances of a sprain?
- Is there firm heel support? What about ample ankle stability?
- Are the uppers durable? What materials were used? How high quality is the shoe?
How should my gym shoes fit?
Unlike running shoes, which are commonly recommended to fit a little larger to accommodate for swelling when your feet get hot, gym shoes should mostly fit like any other shoe. That means they should be snug and supportive but not too tight, with the ability for your foot to spread out and ground down through the shoe.
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