The Best Gym Trainers for HIIT and CrossFit Workouts
For the lovers of high-intensity, multi-activity workouts out there who can’t find the right shoe, this guide is for you!
HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training which requires a trainer that facilitates high intensity activities. This genre of workouts includes CrossFit, a from of quick and snappy movements. You need a lightweight shoe to be able to swiftly switch positions between activities in the blink of an eye.
You need comfortable yet durable trainers for such strenuous workouts that involve high-intensity activities such as running, jumping and mountain climbing. You must have the best lightweight trainers that provide ample cushioning and heel stability. You need a trainer that will allow you to be as nimble on your feet as possible. The key is breathability and airiness of the shoe for high intensity workouts.
This article focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of four top trainers that are designed for these types of exercises. Summarising in our pick of the bunch.
Nike Legend Essential 2
The Nike Legend Essential 2 is all about keeping your feet as stable as physically possible. The sole is outfitted with a flat, sturdy heel, and side to side support. This all-encompassing Nike Legend Essential 2 truly supports you by giving you all the grip that you need. You needn’t worry about losing your footing when making those quick movements that characterize HIIT and CrossFit workouts. As the grooves in the sole act as brakes that prevent any slipping or sliding around.
The overall frame of this shoe is built to withstand the toughest terrains with its high-abrasion honeycomb mesh on the top of the shoe.
PROS:
- EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) stability frame provides a comfortable firmness
- Responsive Boost midsole allows for quick movements
- Rubber outsole provides grip and keeps you secured to the ground
- Stretchy mesh upper provides breathability and coolness
- Light frame feels easy to wear and doesn’t drag you or slow you down
- TPU insole provides ultimate comfort in the form of cushioning
CONS:
- Toe area could be slightly too narrow for those with wider feet
- This shoe might not be very durable as it isn’t heavy duty
- Might not be suitable for those with wide feet
Where to buy?
Nike Air Zoom SuperRep 2
Specifically designed for HIIT training, this silhouette offers the necessary support required for quick movements whilst providing ultimate levels of comfort with cushioning like no other. This style has been redesigned in order to allow for more room in the wider forefoot area, which makes this shoe accessible to everyone with any foot shape.
The most special feature of this style is the big arc that has been built into the sides. This behaves as a support that simultaneously props both of your feet up. This provides impressive care as you move from side to side. The divide in the middle of the sole allows for greater flexibility, which is perfect for these workouts, which require so many different movements in a short space of time.
PROS:
- Designed for high-intensity interval training workouts
- Zoom Air cushioning helps absorb impact
- Wider space in the forefoot to fit all foot shapes and sizes
- Adjustable tongue provides extra casing around your foot
- Full-length plate for more balance
- Big arc on the side acts gives extra support from all angles
- Split sole for seamless movement
- Open mesh lining offers breathability for full ventilation
CONS:
- Unusual design that may take some getting used to
- Non-flat platform is not squat-friendly or deadlift-friendly
- Limited colourways
Where to buy?
Adidas Crazy Flight
The Crazy Flight silhouette is a shoe that has been designed specifically for Volleyball. However, its features are exactly what you should be looking for in a HIIT or CrossFit shoe as well. The shoe comes equipped with an EVA stability frame and a responsive Boost midsole, allowing for snappy movements to be made. This shoe offers a good amount of support to your feet.
The upper is made of a mesh fabric, heightening the breathability of the shoe. This is perfect for high-intensity workouts because your foot needs to be able to breathe in order to cool down. The rubber outsole provides a healthy amount of grip, which is essential to keep you safe for these types of workouts. Available at Adidas SHOP HERE.
PROS:
- EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) stability frame provides a comfortable firmness
- Responsive Boost midsole allows for quick movements
- Rubber outsole provides grip and keeps you secured to the ground
- Stretchy mesh upper provides breathability and coolness
- Light frame feels easy to wear and doesn’t drag you or slow you down
- TPU insole provides ultimate comfort in the form of cushioning
CONS:
- Toe area could be slightly too narrow for those with wider feet
- This shoe might not be very durable as it isn’t heavy duty
Where to buy?
Asics Gel Quantum 360 5
The Gel Quantum 360 5 features specially crafted technology to provide your feet with the highest quality comfort and support. The Gel Technology Cushioning provides fantastic comfort in the midsole region, allowing you to keep exercising for a longer time. The engineered mesh upper provides that sought-after breathability with a more performance-focused design. What’s more is that the design has no-sew overlays. This is in keeping with modern street style, so it is a fashionable choice.
The outsole is durable, meaning these shoes can last you a long time. It also allows for use on all types of terrain, however, this may not be so necessary for indoor HIIT activities. Available at Footlocker SHOP HERE.
PROS:
- Gel Cushioning Technology provides ultimate cushioning and comfort for shock absorption
- The seamless mesh upper provides comfort and a very snug fit
- A durable outsole offers a more hard-wearing shoe
CONS:
- Shape is bulkier and heavier than others, so it doesn’t provide that light weighted quality
- The upper is said to run slightly narrow, so might not be suitable for those with wide feet
- This is a more expensive option
Where to buy?
Conclusion
And the winner is … The Nike Air Zoom SuperRep 2
Upon careful deliberation, it is clear that the Nike Air Zoom SuperRep 2 offers the most advantages. Therefore, this is the best trainer for HIIT and CrossFit workouts. Although an unusual design that many may not be used to, the benefits are plentiful, and you can’t go wrong with a shoe that has been specifically created for the very activity you’re doing.
It’s clear that there are many different types of trainers that can be worn for HIIT workouts. The best places to buy them are directly on the Nike’s website HERE, or alternatively, you can visit JD Sports or ASOS for a wide variety of different brands.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What kind of shoes should I wear for CrossFit?
For CrossFit workouts, it is essential to wear trainers that provide support, comfort, and most importantly, they must facilitate most types of different movements. This is done by having a thicker sole that allows for bouncier movements. There’s no need for excessive grip or traction on the outsole, as these workouts are typically done indoors, so it is more important to find a trainer that offers stability and support.
What are the best sneakers for HIIT training?
For HIIT training, the best trainers are lightweight to allow quick movements. It’s best to steer clear from bulky, heave-duty trainers as these will weigh you down, which is not suitable for this type of exercise. There needs to be a firm foundation for weight lifting exercises. Therefore, having a foam or gel heel is best for providing cushioning that will absorb any impact while leaving you comfortable throughout your workout.
Can I use running shoes for HIIT?
It’s not advisable to wear running shoes for HIIT workouts, because running trainers are designed specifically to support that particular workout. Therefore, the qualities and overall design are not appropriate. You could risk injury to yourself if you don’t use the correct trainers, so you must ensure to invest in a pair that are specifically created for HIIT workouts, as you’ll be better protected, supported, and stabilized.
What are the most comfortable cross-training shoes?
The most comfortable cross-training shoes are trainers that are lightweight – usually with a breathable, mesh upper. The sole material is also key for comfort. Opt for a foam or gel sole that provides ample cushioning.
Are HIIT shoes good for walking?
If your walks are relatively short, you can usually wear most types of trainers. However, seeing as HIIT activities are often indoors most HIIT trainers are often not equipped with the durability required for walking, especially on different types of terrains. If you want to walk in your HIIT shoes, keep the walks short and try to stay on the most stable, flat ground you can. The main thing with walking shoes is that they’re comfortable and support your feet.
Can you wear CrossFit shoes every day?
Yes, this is absolutely possible. As CrossFit shoes are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, they can be appropriate for everyday wear. However, these types of shoes won’t be as durable as they aren’t fabricated out of very tough materials. Therefore, if you’re wearing them every day, they might get worn out much quicker. Yet if you’re happy to keep buying CrossFit trainers, especially if they’re inexpensive, you definitely can!
