The best gym shoes for women in 2025

Table of contents

Update, May 2, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for the best gym shoes for women remains unchanged.

Best gym shoes for women overall

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Other women's gym shoes we recommend for 2025

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Factors to consider when choosing women’s gym shoes

Whether you're wearing them for a quick walk or an intense HIIT workout, you want to find a pair of gym shoes that are both comfortable and supportive. To find the option that best suits your needs, there are a number of factors to consider.

• Comfort: Like any shoe, comfort is key. You’ll want to find a pair with ample cushioning and support to prevent injuries and ensure your feet won’t hurt after wearing them.
  

• Traction: According to Stephanie Holbrook, Level 1 USA triathlon coach, you want shoes with a sole that provides a good grip on various surfaces, including slippery gym floors and outdoor terrain. “Look for shoes with a patterned sole or rubber outsole for optimal traction,” she tells us.
  

• Weight: How heavy a shoe you pick should depend on the activities that you plan on wearing them for. “Lighter shoes are great for cardio and agility exercises because they won’t weigh you down, while a slightly heavier shoe with a solid, stable base offers better support for strength training and lifting,” Julie Lohre, women’s fitness expert, IFBB fitness pro athlete and certified personal trainer tells us.
  

• Fit: Gym shoes should fit properly to prevent injuries and foot pain. Lohre says “They should be snug but not too tight.. When you try them on, there should be enough space in the toe box that you can wiggle a little, but not so much that your feet shift within the shoe.” She also recommends trying gym shoes on for the first time at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to make sure they will not be too tight.
  

• Durability: Since sneakers in general can be pricey (especially if you’re opting for a pair from a well-known sports brand) you want to invest in a pair that will last.
  

• Breathability: “Your feet can get hot and sweaty during a workout, so it's important to choose shoes that are breathable,” says Holbrook. “Look for shoes with mesh or other breathable materials to help keep your feet cool and dry. Shoes with antimicrobial properties can also help prevent odors and bacteria from building up inside the shoe.”

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How we chose the best gym shoes for women

To figure out which women’s gym shoes were the best of the best, we consulted a mix of fitness experts, trainers and our own shopping editors. They weighed in on what to look for when picking the right gym shoes for different workouts. We also polled this crew to find out which options are their favorites — because there's nothing like a firsthand recommendation! After reviewing hundreds of contenders, we came down to 13 final candidates.

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FAQs

Do you need different gym shoes for different types of workouts?

While you may think one pair of sneakers will work for all workouts, you'd be thinking wrong: You should actually use different gym shoes for different workouts. Lohre tells us that after years of trying out different gym sneakers, she found that having specific shoes for specific activities actually helps her perform better.

Victoria Petrella, NASM [National Academy of Sports Medicine]-certified personal trainer explains that it’s because the shoes are designed with specific athletic needs in mind. “For instance, running shoes are designed with cushioning to absorb impact, which is great for running but not ideal for weightlifting. On the other hand, cross-training shoes offer more lateral support, making them perfect for gym classes or lifting weights. I always switch my shoes based on my workout to get the best performance and avoid injuries,” she says.

How do you clean gym shoes?

There are a few simple ways you can keep your gym shoes in tip-top shape. Holbrook recommends wiping your gym shoes with a clean cloth to remove any dirt, sweat, or debris after every workout. “If your shoes are particularly dirty, you can use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap to clean them. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the material of your shoes” she adds.

Airing out your gym shoes is also helpful as it can prevent the buildup of bacteria and odor. “Remove the insoles and let them dry separately. You can also stuff your shoes with newspaper to help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process,” says Holbrook. And be sure to store them in a cool, dry place when they aren’t in use. “Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or in a damp environment, as this can damage the material and cause odor. You can also use shoe trees or inserts to help maintain their shape,” she added.

Another helpful tip is to check the manufacturer label as some gym shoes are now machine-washable, which would make keeping them clean even easier.

How long should gym shoes last?

Proper maintenance is key to preserving the longevity and performance of your gym shoes. But Holbrook says “It’s crucial to replace them when you observe signs of wear and tear to prevent injuries and maximize workout effectiveness.” Lohe says your gym shoes should last up to 500 miles for running or cardio activities or up to 12 months if you’re using them for primarily strength training.

Your body will often give you signals, that it’s time to replace your gym shoes too Lohe adds. “If you start experiencing new aches or pains, it could be a sign that your shoes are no longer providing the support you need. Regularly checking your shoes for these signs and rotating them out as needed will help keep your workouts safe and effective.”

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Meet our experts

• Stephanie Holbrook, Level 1 USA triathlon coach, Level 2 USA cycling coach, Pose Method running technique specialist

• Julie Lohre, women’s fitness expert, IFBB fitness pro athlete and certified personal trainer

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