The 8 Best Workout Shoes For Men That Consistently Score High Ratings (2024)

Whitney Bruno

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Nike Free Metcon 5

• What’s notable: Lightweight fit enables comfortable ankle and forefoot support for all types of athletic movement
• What could be better: Popular colors sell out fast

Nike’s Metcon shoes have long been considered the gold standard for workout shoes, and this latest version builds upon the already-great features: The revamped upper is easier to slide into with a molded collar for your ankle, a wide heel gives you that same solid base for stability, and flexibility in the forefoot provides agility for moves like burpees, planks and sprints. Nike also added in rubber tread in high-wear areas for more traction, making this a well-rounded shoe for pretty much any athletic endeavor.

What the reviews say: “Very light,” comfortable shoe that fits “true to size” and provides “fantastic ankle support and heel support.” | Support: Wide heel, wide internal webbing | Cushion: Soft foam core

Reebok Flexagon Force 3

• What’s notable: MemoryTech foam sockliner creates a uniquely breathable feel at a reasonable price
• What could be better: Thinner soles can make for shorter lifespan

These days it’s hard to find a decent workout shoe for less than $140. Reebok’s well-priced and highly rated Flexagon Force 3 is an exception. The wide-fit shoes have a breathable mesh upper and soft midsole cushioning, plus flex grooves in the outsole give you the support and flexibility for deep lunges and quick pivots.

What the reviews say: “Easy to keep clean... affordable,” with “great airflow” but those who want a wider fit have to “loosen the laces all the way.” | Support: Mesh upper, EVA outsole with flex grooves and rubber heel | Cushion: Responsive midsole FuelFoam

Hoka Clifton 9

• What’s notable: Breathable knit upper and EVA foam midsole provide cushy support for tired feet
• What could be better: Side cutaway is slightly stiffer compared to previousmodels

This latest iteration in the Clifton series has been streamlined for maximum comfort. With its Eva foam midsole and plush heel, the Hoka Clifton 9 has an added 3mm in height for a lighter underfoot experience. Those with sensitive or recovering feet will appreciate the extra support, and those looking for a longer-lasting shoe will like the new Durabrasion rubber outsole that extends the longevity of this model.

What the reviews say: “A stylish design” with “exceptional” cushioning, however the dye on the “labels inside the tongue of both shoes” can “rub off on socks.” | Support: Durabrasion rubber outsole, MetaRocker stable geometry | Cushion: Symmetrical and lightweight

Brooks Ghost 15

• What’s notable: Improved cushioning technology creates balanced, smooth transitions
• What could be better: Laces tend to unravel and need to be securely tied

If you’re looking to enhance your everyday runs, the Brooks Ghost 15 has got you covered. Its engineered segmented crash pad was designed with ease of speed in mind, creating seamless landing to toe-off transitions that will have you gliding over even the rockiest of trails. Formulated from a unique plush, the Dna Loft v2 cushioning along with the air mesh upper add a bonus breathable feel.

What the reviews say: “Everything seems dialed... right in terms of design, materials, and construction.” Soles can “wear down significantly” after months of use. | Support: Soft midsole, segmented crash pad, mesh upper | Cushion: Lightweight Dna Loft v2 cushioning

• What’s notable: Cushioning absorbs the force of high-impact workouts
• What could be better: Popular colors sell out fast

The NoBull Men’s Trainer+ is reinforced with a SuperFabric one-piece upper so it can hold up to serious wear and tear from tough workouts. It has a low-drop heel to help with balance, a grippy outsole for traction and molded insole flexes for high-impact movements—making it a great shoe for cross training and HIIT workouts.

What the reviews say: “Extremely robust and durable” and “excellent for leg day,” but “sole is too high and not that stable” considering the “steep price.” | Support: SuperFabric one-piece upper, carbon rubber outsole, perforated microsuede tongue | Cushion: Molded, anatomical

K-Swiss Ultrashot 3

• What’s notable: Excellent shock absorption and traction for fast, lateral movements
• What could be better: Can stretch with continued use due to its wider fit

The Ultrashot 3 is popular among professional ATP and WTA athletes who’ve been sporting the shoe on the court. Also a favorite among everyday pros, this pick was built with midsole that provides extra bounce and energy payoff, making fast pivots and sprints easier than ever. The outsole gives strong grip and traction for quick side-to-side movements.

What the reviews say: N/A (not listed) | Support: Synthetic leather upper, textile collar lining, rubber outsole | Cushion: Imeva Midsole

Asics Gel Nimbus 24

• What’s notable: Holds foot in neutral position to prevent overpronoation, gel padding reduces heel impact for long-distance training
• What could be better: Runs small for some, consider sizing up

This newest model in the Gel Nimbus line was engineered with a unique rear-foot and forefoot gel technology to create softer landings; and it's 20g lighter than the previous shoe—which shows in just how soft and breathable it feels. It’s also constructed of sustainable Asics Lite rubber to enhance its longevity.

What the reviews say: “Cushioning is... good at isolating impact while still providing... forward momentum,” but sacrifices stability for a “plush spring.” | Support: Mesh upper, Asics Lite outsole rubber | Cushion: Gel technology, Flytefoam cushioning

• What’s notable: Snug, secure upper and unique speed-lacing system for casual wear
• What could be better: Popular model with limited stock

If you want a workout shoe you can wear all day, the On Cloud 5 Push excels in the category. It has a fitted athletic upper and improved speed lacing system for extra stability versus other Cloud models, which makes it great for travel, standing and light aerobic activity. It’s also extremely lightweight and the Swiss-engineered CloudTec cushioning reacts to your steps, giving an extra “push” or lift-off as you move to reduce foot fatigue.

What the reviews say: N/A (not listed) | Support: Molded heel, closed-channel forefoot, Adapted Speedboard | Cushion: CloudTec Zero-Gravity foam