With the wide variety women’s cross training shoes on the market, it’s hard to know where to start looking for the perfect cross trainer.

We checked out a variety of cross trainers and reviewed those we feel are worth looking into.

We hope this in-depth information will make it easier for you to make the right selection for your personal needs and preferences. Below are our top rated cross trainers for women on Amazon.

Best Women’s Cross Trainers

	PUMA Tazon FM CrossTrainer Shoe	Champion Gusto Cross Trainer	ASICS Gel-Craze TR 4 Cross Trainer
Uppers:	Synthetic leather	Mesh	Synthetic / mesh
Soles:	Rubber	Synthetic	Rubber
Colors:	4	16	8
Features:	EcoOrthoLite sockliner	Memory foam insole	Gel insole

For more of my workout gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Slam Balls, Kettle Bells, Adjustable Dumbbells.

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Women’s Cross Training Shoes

1. PUMA Women’s Tazon FM CrossTrainer Shoe
2. Champion Women’s Gusto Cross Trainer
3. RYKA Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe
4. ASICS Women’s Gel-Craze TR 4 Cross Trainer Shoe
5. NIKE Women’s Flex Supreme TR Cross Trainer

Our reviews of the top women’s cross trainers with our buyers guide and comparison table will help you choose the right pair for you.

Women’s Cross Training Shoe Reviews

#1 PUMA Women’s Tazon FM CrossTrainer Shoe

The cute and stylish PUMA Women’s Tazon FL Cross-Trainer Shoe is true to size. That’s something to watch in cross-trainers as many run small.

Having said that, consider whether you will be using thin socks or thicker athletic ones. If you prefer the thick style, it might be a good idea to go with half a size larger.

This PUMA is made with a synthetic leather upper and is breathable, thanks to a PUMA’s patented EcoOrthoLite sockliner.

It is a lightweight trainer and very comfortable for a variety of activities- from fitness and exercise to just using for everyday wear.

While the shoe is comfortable, with sufficient cushioning, they are a bit stiff at first so may take some time to break-in.

It fits snuggly without feeling too tight, though the toe box could have offered more room for the toes to spread out when doing high impact activity like running. The toe box size may be less of an issue for someone with a narrow foot.

The arch support was good and the shoe is roomy enough for inserts. While these shoes are designed with fitness in mind, they would be great for people who are on their feet all day for work.

They are sufficiently comfortable and supportive for most any activity. Overall this PUMA model is our top pick for the best cross training shoes for women.

#2 Champion Women’s Gusto Cross Trainer

The Champion Women’s Gusto Cross Trainer is a great option for the budget-minded athlete.  It’s the most economical of the ones we reviewed.

The stylish design looks good for general wear as well as for showing up at the gym.

This feather-light shoe has a fabric upper which is kinder to wider feet, providing a good amount of give. The mesh toe allows for more wiggle room.

This Champion model offers more flexibility than its competitors. Possibly because of this, it also provides less support, so may not be the best choice for activities that require stability such as managing heavy weights.

A unique feature is the Champion’s memory foam insole which is super comfy. The down-side of the insole is its minimal arch support.

For this reason, this shoe is geared more toward light to moderately strenuous activity. These cross trainers are true to size, super cute and are good cross training shoes!

#3 RYKA Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe

The RYKA Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe is a quality, well-constructed choice. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors as well as more muted tones.

This includes some fun, brightly colored laces. They have blind eyelets (the holes the laces run through).

Great for dance fitness classes such as Zumba due the ease of turning, twisting, and making pivoting motions. This is made possible by a built in pivot-point in the sole of this shoe.

Another reason for its agility is its tendency to get less traction than those styles that are designed for running. It does well on studio and gym floors.

The insole is bouncy but has less cushioning than some of its competitors. For this reason, it wouldn’t be the best choice for hard core running or other super high impact activities.

These cross trainer sneakers run a little small. It’s probably wise to order half a size bigger than what you normally wear.  Remember to take into account they type of socks you use.

The arch is well-defined, but not too high. The upper portion of shoe is structured without much give. Which lends itself to greater stability. This is a plus for weight lifting.

The RYKA Women’s Influence are lightweight, comfortable and sturdy with good lateral support another good choice for the best training shoes for women!

#4 ASICS Women’s Gel-Craze TR 4 Cross Trainer Shoe

The ASICS Women’s Gel-Craze TR 4 Cross-Trainer Shoe’s claim to fame is its unique sole construction.

ASICS uses cushioning technology created by fusing two materials, a patented gel and foam; and the sole’s high abrasion rubber protects against wear and tear.

The Asics women’s cross training sneakers are the only of our 5 choices that has a removable insole, allowing those who rely on orthotics to replace the insoles with inserts.

It provides a good amount of cushioning but arch support was lacking, so inserts may be wise for those with arch issues.

Ordering up half-a-size for improved comfort is wise, as these shoes seem to run small. The toe box is sufficiently roomy.

This style is probably the least supportive of the 5 we reviewed, so may be a better choice for someone who’s heavy on weight lifting and less focused on high impact cardio. This ASICS model is lightweight and provides exceptional flexibility.

#5 NIKE Women’s Flex Supreme TR Cross Trainer

The attractive and stylish NIKE Women’s Flex Supreme TR Cross Trainers are feather light, yet supportive and in our opinion the best Nike cross training shoes. They feel like you are barely wearing shoes at all!

It’s breathable style give this Nike an airy feel. This is likely due to its mesh fabric. While there is plenty of cushion, the shoe doesn’t feel bulky in the least.

In spite of its light weight, it is a sturdy shoe. The fit is firm but offers a roomy toe box, wider than the others we tried out. This is an advantage for those with wider than normal feet.

Its reliable rubber soles provide good balance and slip-proof performance with a reliable traction for supporting you while performing a variety of activities.

This is particularly important for things like managing weights in the gym. One caveat here – they may be more apt for light lifting over heavier weights.

The heel fits well, with no noticeable slippage. It is true to size and provides decent arch support, though not as good as the others.

These weren’t the best for best shock absorption. They may be good for running on natural surfaces like on the beach or trails, but probably not the best choice for long runs on harder surfaces like concrete or asphalt.

Runs on the treadmill with these trainers would be okay. These Nikes allow for agility in moving such as during dance fitness classes.

While classified as cross trainer sneakers the NIKE Women’s Flex Supreme TR  were better for walking, running on a giving surface, cardio dance (such as Zumba and Jazzercise), and light weight lifting.

Cross Trainers For Women Comparison

How To Choose the Best Women’s Cross Trainers

Arch Support

Does the shoe you are considering have the necessary arch support for your type of foot?  If you require additional support, in the form of an insert, does the shoe provide enough room for you to use one without your heel slipping out?

Those with high arches should be aware of cushioning. Those with flatter feet should stick to a more neutral shoe.

Foot Width

If you have a wider than normal foot, the flexibility of fabric is worth considering so that it will provide some give. Make sure they are roomy enough for your toes to splay when you wear them for high impact exercise or running.

The toe box should allow for wiggle room. Heel should remain in place when active. It shouldn’t slip out or move around, so the back of the shoe should be able to hold your heel in place without digging into the ankle.

Shock Absorption

If you spend a lot of your time running or engaging in high impact activities, shock absorption is a must in order to protect your knees and ankles.

Cushioning is the key in women’s cross training sneakers for ensuring sufficient protection from shock. Both the heel and forefront of the trainer should have good cushioning.

Size

Some shoes run notoriously small, so pay close attention to whether or not the model you are considering runs true to size or whether you should order up a size or a half.

Flexibility

For activities where you make frequent changes of direction, you should have a shoe that supports that movement. You don’t want a shoe that is so stiff it cuts into your ankles or heel or that limits your foot’s movement. At the same time, you don’t want a shoe that’s so flexible as to compromise support and stability.

Stability

The sole and overall design of a cross trainer should promote good balance, especially when during weight training. This is important to ensure you don’t lose your equilibrium when maneuvering heavy weights.

Budget

If budget is a consideration, there are quite a few affordable options on the market. Having said that, any serious athlete who is regularly active should make an investment in a good quality pair of cross trainers. The less expensive options are likely to wear out and you’ll end up having to replace them prematurely.

Preferred Activity

Cross training by definition means alternating between different fitness activities, but we usually have our preferred ones. If you are heavy on the running or other high impact exercise, good cushioning will be key.

If you do a lot of lifting, especially with free weights, traction and stability should be a focus in your search for the ideal cross training shoes.

For activities like Jazzercise or Zumba which require frequent change in direction, good lateral support is key. Since these can involve high impact moves, cushioning should be a serious consideration as well.

FAQ For Cross Training Shoes

Cross training is terrific and effective way for a woman to get her body fit, toned and looking gorgeous. But, as you participate in this type of workout, it is important that you prevent self-injury. One of the best safety measures you can take, is to choose and use the proper shoes.

Sports geared footwear is designed with specific features for specific workout/activity types to provide the best support and protection based on each individual activity.

However, with shoes manufactured for CrossFit Training, they must be designed with versatility in mind, while providing the best comfort, support, and protection

Q: What is Cross Training?

A: Cross training refers to practicing a variety of different fitness activities, usually alternating quickly between each. Some of the more popular of these activities include weight training, running, and high-impact cardio.

Q: What are Cross Trainer Shoes?

A: Cross trainers are a hybrid of different athletic shoes which are designed that way in order to be multi-purpose, such is the nature of cross training.

Q: What’s the Difference between Crossfit and Cross Training?

A: Perhaps you’ve heard the term “crossfit” and have confused it with “cross training”. If so, you actually aren’t confused because crossfit and cross training are essentially the same thing. Crossfit is a trademarked fitness program, however today people use the term to loosely refer cross training. They are basically one and the same.

Q: How Do Cross Trainers Differ from Standard Workout Shoes?

A: Cross trainer sneakers are designed to support you while engaging in a variety of fitness activities. Cross trainers features include: the heel cushioning of a running shoe for good shock absorption, the lateral stability of a tennis shoe or basketball sneaker to enhance balance and stability when making quick lateral moves and weight lifting, and the forefront cushioning of a volleyball shoe to soften harsh impact.

The benefit of a cross-training shoe is that the shoe is versatile enough to be utilized for various activities, and for those who participate in different activities, but do not specialize in one.

Q: What are Key Features of a Good Cross Trainer?

Outsoles – Outsoles, or the bottom of the trainer, should be thick and provide traction to avoid slippage. This type of sole allows for rapid changes between activities, the hallmark feature of cross training.

Midsoles – Midsoles should provided plenty of cushioning, especially for the athlete who spends a good amount of time running or enjoying other high impact activity.  Well-cushioned midsoles are essential for providing sufficient shock absorption for high impact fitness.

Upper – The upper part of the shoe should provide sufficient support to the ankle and breadth of the foot so that the foot doesn’t turn out or inward when working out. For ultimate comfort, the material should be breathable.

Q: Isn’t it okay to use any type of sneaker for cross-training, as long as they fit well?

A: Cross training shoes have a specially designed toe box.. The toe box is wider, allowing your toes to spread out as they naturally should during some of the activities involved. This allows for better balance and control during your cross-training workouts.

Additionally, the mid-sole is designed with extra cushioning to protect your arches during your routine. They also feature specifically designed insoles which convert impact to forward motion. They offer the perfect outer sole to be slip resistant, provide excellent grip.

Q: Can’t I just purchase men’s cross training shoes in a size that fits me?

A: Men and women are built very differently; from head to toe. Women’s cross training shoes, are designed specifically to provide a superior fit for a woman’s foot structure.

Women’s shoes are designed to fit properly in all of the right places for the female foot. By choosing to buy a pair in a men’s style, you are sacrificing proper fit and function. This may, and likely will, result in discomfort or injury from your cross-training workout.

Therefore, it is highly recommended that you choose a shoe that was designed with you, as a woman, in mind. Besides, have you seen the attractive styles available to women? They are very stylish and attractive.

Q: How can I be sure I purchase the right women’s cross training shoes the first time?

A: Unfortunately, there are no guarantees on this. However, by choosing a well-known name brand, you will increase the odds significantly. Additionally, using the reference chart, reading our reviews and familiarizing yourself with this buying guide will help ensure you make the correct choice the first time.

Be sure to look into the return policy on the Cross Training shoes as well, so if by chance you are not satisfied with your first choice, you can return them and make a more appropriate selection.

Tips for Buying the Best Cross Training Shoes

When investing in a pair of women’s Cross Training shoes, you want to know you are buying the best shoes for you. So, we will share a few tips with you, to further assist you in choosing. You will find much benefit to doing so.

We just can’t stress enough; how important it is to have the right shoes for your Cross Training routines! Your feet take a lot of impact over the course of your lifetime. And, they need to carry you through all of those years as healthily and comfortably as possible.

Tip #1: Sole

When most people think about the sole of a shoe, it brings an image to mind of the bottom of the shoe. That’s only the ‘outsole. But, there’s much more to consider than that. There is also the insole to consider, and it is every bit as important, maybe more so! Let’s understand why.

The outsole can be made of different materials, including: rubber and synthetic materials. More importantly, some include special features such as; a RopePro wrap at the forefront to help support you when rope climbing. While others offer a special grip pattern or grooves for ultimate traction ability. Rubber can be a bit more durable typically, but it’s synthetic counterparts can come close.

There is a large variety of features offered as far as the insoles provided. For instance, if you wear prescription orthotic insoles, you need to choose a Cross Training shoe that offers a removable sole so you can insert your specially made one in its place.

Some insoles on Cross Training shoes include an underlying steel shank, for extra arch support and protection during your workouts. The midsole is manufactured with a variety of materials and features, so read up on the differences, to choose the features that you most desire or require.

Tip #2: Uppers

Typically, the uppers on Cross-Training shoes come in either a synthetic material or in leather.

If you know that you will be using your new shoes in damp or wet areas, leather uppers would be the best choice, as they will provide the best protection from the dampness. However, they do tend to be a heavier shoe, and can result in causing your feet to sweat due to the lack of breathability with leather.

Synthetic uppers, on the other hand, are often lightweight, offer more breathability and even more flexibility in your movements. This would be the best choice for you, most likely, if your workouts occur indoors and in dry areas. Your feet stay cooler, thus don’t sweat nearly as much as with a leather upper.

Tip #3: Lacing System

Most Cross Training shoes come with a regular lace up design to hug the foot, keeping your shoes securely in place. The trick here is to be sure they are snug, but not overly tight. This, combined with a proper fit will help prevent accidents and injuries during your workout.

Be sure that any shoe you choose, has a secure lacing system and fits well.

Tip #4: The Three Features You Must Insist On

First: Stable and secure footing, to prevent slipping or twisting your ankle. You need your weight dispersed naturally around the sole. Proper outsole grip, shoe fit and cushioning selection can enhance this feature. Based on your foot build, one design may offer you greater stability than another.

Next: You need to select a pair with a wide toe box, so your toes can naturally spread for greater balance and stability.

Lastly: Good arch and heel support are imperative to protecting your feet from injury or the occurrence of other painful foot conditions. With a workout offering the variety of activities that Cross Training involves, this is a must for protecting yourself!

Tip #5: Do Your Homework

To select a pair of Cross Training shoes, do your homework and become and informed consumer. This will help ensure you make the best selection for your personal needs.

We have made this easy for you in this buying guide. Be sure to read through all of our insightful reviews, as they contain all of the essential information you need. For quick and easy feature information, be sure to view the comparison chart we have provided for you.

Best of luck in your Cross Training endeavors! Have fun, get fit and fabulous, and protect yourself with the proper footwear.

Final Recommendations

Like anything we are passionate about, if you are a person serious about a variety of activities and are committed to regular exercise, making an investment in a quality cross trainer is worth it, both to ensure durability and for your own safety and well-being.

Professional trainers recommend alternating shoes between workouts to extend the life of your cross trainers and for your own comfort, so having a few on hand is a wise idea.

We hope our reviews and the information we’ve provided helps you in your quest to find the perfect cross trainer for you and your individual exercise needs.

I hope this guide was helpful for finding a good pair of women’s cross training shoes to fit your needs. If you want to comment or recommend a pair of shoes I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch.

How We Researched

To come up with the top women’s cross training shoes, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources