Best Gym Shoes for Men: 10 Expert-Approved Picks for Workouts

With so many kinds of workouts available and so many styles of workout shoes to choose from, finding the right pair can be tricky (and possibly even one more excuse for not going to the gym at all). To get you started on the right foot, I’ve rounded up some expert advice by Dr. Kellie Kopach, fitness instructor at Lifetime Fitness and AFAA certified for 25 years on choosing the best gym shoes for men, whether you’re into weightlifting, HIIT, or anything else.

Our top picks for the best gym shoes

How we selected the best gym shoes

Our selections were made in consultation with certified fitness expert Dr. Kellie Kopach to ensure everything on our list is practical, good value for money, and appropriate for the activities described. I also drew on my own personal experience, and scoured customer reviews to check that all of our picks rated highly with real customers.

What to consider when buying gym shoes

“I always tell clients that the most important item in their gym bags are their shoes,” says Dr. Kellie Kopach, fitness instructor at Lifetime Fitness and AFAA certified for 25 years. “The right gym shoe helps you to get the most from your workout and at the same time, reduces your risk of injury.” With that in mind, she suggests always paying attention to the following.

Fit

“Aside from improper form, poor shoe quality and/or fit is the leading cause of injury when working out,” says Kopach. “Gym shoes are like the tires on your car—they need the correct fit and style, and they need to be properly maintained.” If you’re unsure of the exact size you need, it’s best to try them on in person, and, ideally, ask the people who work at the store for their advice on finding the right fit for your specific feet.

Structure

Since different workouts require different movements and different styles of shoe, you should figure out which pair best suits you across your personal range of activities (or whether you need to invest in multiple pairs). “Gym shoes should have structure and provide support for both lateral and front-to-back movements,” says Kopach.

Price

While workout shoes tend to be on the pricey side, it’s worth doing your research and checking you’re actually getting what you're paying for. Remember, proper structure, fit, longevity, and support are all worth a lot more than having a particular logo on your foot. “Yes, gym shoes are an investment, but they don’t have to empty your wallet either,” comments Kopach.How to maintain and clean gym shoes

“Gym shoes should only be worn at the gym and not used for any other activity,” advises Kopach. “This helps maintain the quality of the shoes, while also ensuring longevity in the wear. How much you work out will determine how long to keep the shoes before rotating them out of your gym bag. I recommend that my clients who work out daily purchase new shoes every six to nine months—this will ensure your body is protected from unnecessary injury.”

In terms of cleaning, start by scraping off any obvious dirt and grime that may have accumulated. If you’re not able to put the shoes in the washing machine, remove the laces and spot clean the shoes with a cloth or old toothbrush, using a gentle solution of water and dish soap. Remove the insoles and clean with either the same soap solution or a one-to-one mix of vinegar and water, ensuring you rinse them thoroughly afterward in cold water. Do the same for your laces.

Be sure to dry your shoes thoroughly in a low-humidity room. Avoid the temptation to put them close to a radiator or other heat source, as this may warp them.

How to select the right size for a comfortable fit

“I always recommend, when clients are buying a specific brand for the first time, that they buy their shoes in person,” says Kopach. “Trying on a variety of styles is important when purchasing shoes for the first time, as is getting professionally measured and fitted. Ask questions to the in-store experts, too.”

If you’re unsure of your size, most shoe brands will offer advice on their sites, including foot-measuring tips and charts to match your measurements to that brand’s particular sizing.

In terms of fit, Kopach has some recommendations.“The most popular gym shoes for men in my classes are Brooks, Hoka, and Under Armour, as all three brands offer a variety of price points and models within their lines.” She adds again, though, that it’s important to try them on if you haven’t worn that particular brand before, especially since each brand fits slightly differently.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What footwear should you wear to the gym?

“I never arrive at the gym wearing my fitness shoes,” says Kopach. “I usually wear slippers or flip flops. Once I get to the gym, I change into my athletic shoes. Wearing your gym shoes outside of the gym is a no-no, especially if you attend studio classes. Wearing dirty or wet shoes on the gym floors not only ruins the floors and equipment, but could also lead to safety issues for you and others around you.”

Are running shoes best for the gym?

“If you only use the treadmill, running shoes are fine,” says Kopach. “However, if you participate in any group fitness classes, I recommend more of a cross-trainer design. Every running shoe company offers some version of a cross trainer–these shoes protect the joints more when you’re engaging in lateral movements, which are commonly executed in group fitness.”

What are the different types of gym shoes available?

“Walking shoes, running shoes, and cross training shoes are most commonly used in the gym setting,” says Kopach. “Minimalist-type shoes could be worn in pilates-style and barre classes.

How do I know which type of gym shoe is best for my workouts?

“Most gyms have trainers who can help you determine a shoe type that’s right for you,” suggests Kopach. “I am probably asked about shoes three times per week. I will then ask the clients what type of workouts they do outside of my classes, and then steer them into some styles and brands that I think could work for them.”