13 Best Women's Workout Shoes for All Types of Exercise

Beloved by GH testers, Ryka designs sneakers exclusively for women's feet — not just the men's version sized down — with "a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning," according to the brand. These cross-training shoes are perfect for studio classes such as dance, Zumba and aerobics. The high traction outsole helps you keep your grip with pivot points, so every twist and turn is smooth. The anatomical insole has extra arch and heel support to prevent foot pain. Amazon reviewers recommend going up half a size for a better fit.

Reebok recently upgraded our top-tested trainer style with additional traction on the outsole for even better performance. Testers loved Reebok trainers for their versatility and found them comfortable during a variety of different workouts. These trainers have a responsive footbed, perfect for quick movements during HIIT workouts for those who want to break a sweat in less time. With a durable rubber outsole, you can wear these trainers in and out of the gym. The knit upper prevents overheating and this style is available in eight color options. The brand recommends going down half a size for this pair.

When heading out for a run on concrete or track, you need cushioning that’ll protect your knees and joints. Testers loved these Adidas Ultraboost sneakers for having “cloud-like” cushioning that supported them with each step. They feature Boost foam, which has air pockets throughout for a lightweight feel. Reviewers with bad knees and low back pain especially appreciated the cushioning on these sneakers. There’s also a knit mesh upper that stays snug to your feet while allowing airflow.

Whether walking while traveling or for exercise, you need a shoe that will propel you forward while supporting your whole foot. Testers found the Ryka Devotion 3 sneakers to be both comfortable and supportive while providing excellent cushioning and traction. Although testers did not rate these sneakers as stylish, podiatrists who evaluated the shoes said this pair is great for hard surface walking.

With a Plantar Fasciitis diagnosis, you want to make sure your workout shoes have a deep heel cup and plenty of arch support to avoid any pain. Hoka sneakers are popular among testers with Plantar Fasciitis (and those without!) as they have the brand’s signature Meta-Rocker. The brand describes it as "a low heel-toe differential and a sculpted outsole" to create a rocking motion that keeps you more stable and propels you forward. Testers loved these sneakers' cushioning with one saying it felt like "running on clouds," but some found that they looked "too bulky."

Designed to pair with your favorite cycling bike at home or in studio, these new cycling shoes from Nike click right into place when used with compatible cleats. Though be mindful that they can only be worn when cycling — they aren't cross-trainers. With two velcro straps to keep your foot secure during fast rides, this pair also has rubber on the bottom so you can easily walk around off the bike. While we haven't tested this specific style, Nike sneakers are popular among testers and GH experts alike for being built for movement and staying in great condition even with extensive use.

Stefani Sassos, Deputy Director of Nutrition at Good Housekeeping and NASM certified personal trainer, advises that "you should wear lifters when lifting heavy weights." Lifters have a flat base and elevated heel (compared to trainers) to "give a smooth transition into dorsiflexion and an extra stable outsole to provide that needed stability for heavy lifts," according to Sassos. These lifters from No Bull have a flat base with added lift at the heel using leather materials for a chic, durable appearance. Make sure to switch out of your lifters into trainers before doing other workouts at the gym as lifters have very solid construction and you'll need more flexibility for quick movements.

Allbirds sneakers are famous for being both extremely comfortable and machine washable. The original styles were designed for walking and travel, but the brand’s newest slip-on sneaker is great for all types of workouts. The Tree Dashers have upgraded features like a structured top for stability, a contoured footbed and a wide heel to prevent overpronation. "The outsole makes these great for exercising outside," raves one tester who also found them "easy to clean" too. Our textile pros love that Allbirds aims to make sustainable choices by using Tencel, Merino wool, castor-bean-based foam and natural rubber.

Head into an outdoor workout with confidence by wearing sneakers with a high traction outsole. This pair of trail running sneakers from Saucony are a favorite of one GH Analyst. She especially appreciated the "great ankle support and excellent stability while still being lightweight." The midsole is on the thinner side, so they propel you forward as you run but offer less cushioning than other styles.

If you're tired of lacing up your sneakers when heading out the door, go with this lace-less slip-on style instead. APL sneakers, although a bit pricey, are wildly popular for being breathable and comfortable for a variety of exercises while having a stylish look with 30 different color options. The sole offers cushioning with minimal stability features to help develop your foot muscles, but that does make these less suited for high-intensity exercise. One GH Analyst wears these sneakers every day, saying, "I'm constantly reaching for this pair as they are so easy to take on/off and the added padding on the back of my ankle makes them super comfy for all-day wear."

Long-distance running, especially outside, requires sneakers with excellent cushioning that will propel you forward and stay comfortable, even after 10+ miles. The Nike React Infinity's rocker design will do just that. During testing, podiatrists told us this is a "popular marathon shoe," and testers loved the cushioning foam with one saying it "added a spring to my step" and it was "bouncy on hard surfaces." The perforated mesh upper allows for a breathable feel, ideal for longer runs to prevent sweaty feet.