Cross-training is an excellent way for athletes to achieve and maintain a higher level of overall fitness. By alternating one’s workout routine through several differing modes of training, the potential to target different muscle groups, enhance cardiovascular endurance, and reduce injuries is significantly greater. With a drastic rise in this modality, more and more athletes are implementing cross-training style workouts into their daily exercise routines. With a wide array of training methods, it’s crucial to invest in the proper footwear considering the multitude of movements involved. Whether you’re focusing on an exercise regime for the purpose of health and fitness or competition, cross-training is highly beneficial. Since the majority of the exercises can be high intensity and physically demanding, in order to sustain the body and ensure injury prevention, wearing comfortable, supportive cross-training shoes is vital to success and performance. Designed for multiple forms of exercise and a wide range of motions, cross-training shoes provide stability, support, versatility and flexibility. In response to the rise in popularity, many brands on the market are producing a variety of different cross-training shoes fit to meet the wants and needs of athletes of all disciplines. With so many options out there, we narrowed it down based on the most popular cross-training shoes and condensed a list of the top five highlighting the specifics of each.
- Reebok Nano X2
● Designed for daily use, cross-training
● Highly Versatile, all-purpose cross-training shoe
● Reliable traction
● Responsive underfoot-feel
● Enhanced heel clip for weightlifting
● Supportive build - R.A.D One
● Designed for CrossFit, weightlifting
● Considered the “all-in-one” cross-training shoe
● Ideal blend of versatility and stability
● Low-key profile
● Highly durable outsole
● Highly responsive - Nike Metcon 7
● Best for high-intensity cardio workouts, CrossFit
● Supportive base for explosive movements
● Wide fit
● Sturdy platform
● Lightweight design
- On Cloud X
● Designed for weightlifting, HIIT, sprints, CrossFit
● Known for its lightweight design
● Highly versatile
● Durable upper mesh material
● Foam cushioning for extra comfort
● Highly breathable - Under Armour HOVR Apex 3
● Best for gym workouts, weightlifting, HIIT
● Ideal for explosive movements, high intensity workouts
● Wide fit
● Durable, supportive heel and midsole
● Extra cushioning for ultimate comfort
With such a wide variety of options to choose from, it’s important to base your decision for which cross-training shoes to invest in on your individual needs, exercise preference, and level of comfort and support. Regardless of what you choose, a cross-training specific shoe will greatly enhance your performance and support the physically demanding workout program you implement.