So you have decided to sign up for cross-fit training, an excellent training program that combines a variety of exercise routines that will improve your strength, stamina, and fitness, as well as help you build a gorgeous body.
But what to wear for CrossFit training? Especially when it comes to shoes.
All in all, as with every sport, you will need specific shoes for training. However, much of your choice in shoes will depend on the specific exercise routines and types of exercises you will be doing.
You can generally use basic athletic shoes such as running or training shoes for Cross Training, and even use your basketball or tennis shoe.
We have included a few shoe models from New Balance that offers superb comfort and support features, with light flexibility and a comfortable fit, that you can use for Cross Training. Some have different features, which are more suited for certain routines.
What Types of Shoes to Wear for CrossFit Training
Here are a few shoe choices that you can wear for CrossFit training;
- Running Shoe – Running shoes are designed specifically to accommodate forward movement. They usually have plenty of padding and cushioning, especially in the heel area. They are generally not recommended for Cross Training. They are ideal for cross-training that involves quite a bit of running and can be comfortable.
- Basketball Shoes – Basketball shoes are designed to provide good traction and allow stability and movement in all planes with good support for lateral movements. High-top designs often support your ankles and have a flat sole for stability. However, they are heavy and bulky, making them difficult to wear for running and long workouts.
- Volleyball or Court Shoes – Volleyball or court types shoes are generally quite flat and light, so they are more suited for gymnastic type movements and usually have gum, or blown rubber outsoles, not suited for outdoor running.
- General Sneakers – Sneakers are shoes that look athletic but are designed for fashion and style, rather than any athletic use. They are okay for light cross training. However not recommended. Also, to add any shoe with a rocker-style sole should never be used for Cross Fit training.
- Cross Training Shoes – Cross Training shoes blend all the other shoe types; they are a Jack of All trades that you can use for almost anything. Cross Training shoes are also available in hybrid types more suited to specific activities than others. They can accommodate running, jumping, lifting, turning, lateral movements and many other athletic activities. The only con is that they are not the best choice if your cross-straining routine includes much running, especially long-distance running, as they do not have adequate cushioning for plenty of running.
Cross Training Shoes Construction
As we have mentioned, your best option would be a proper Training or Cross training shoe. However, remember that you may also need a weight-lifting shoe for plenty of weight-lifting routines.
Cross Trainers have an outer construction that is more durable to withstand things like rope climbing, jumping, and even weight lifting to a certain point. However, every cross trainer has its construction and can come with different materials.
Cross Training shoes generally have a firmer midsole and outsole, some with TPU material for better support. They will help give stability while absorbing shock and allowing free movement.
Cross Training shoes can have different technologies depending on the brand and model.
Features of a Good New Balance Shoe for Cross Training
- Uppers – The Cross Trainers we have chosen from New Balance may have leather, syntenic, mesh or knit uppers. They offer a supportive fit and a snugger heel fit with an adjustable lace-up system for a customizable fit.
- Cushioning – Most New Balance shoes come with a removable NB soft insole or a PU foam footbed, and some models have an Ortholite sock liner
- Midsole – In a Cross Training shoe from New Balance you will opt for models with firmer midsole such as the ABZORB midsole that absorbs high impacts, the IMEVA injection molded midsole for more flexible cushioning, or the more lightweight REVlite midsole. There, there is also the rigid PU midsole that offers very stable support.
- Support -Some models have an internal shank for structure and support and a more molded heel.
- Outsole – The Outsole will be the high abrasion Ndurance rubber or regular rubber outsole designs.
- Options – Most Training shoe models from New Balance are available in wider width fits and many more colors.
Key Specs Compared
Numbers match the reviews below (tap to jump).
| No. | Shoe | Type | Upper | Closure | Cushioning (as listed) | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Fresh Foam X | Rubber |
| 2 | New Balance Fresh Foam x | Running Shoe | Knit | Not stated | Fresh Foam x | Rubber |
| 3 | New Balance 608V5 | Training Shoe | Suede | Lace-up | ABZORB | Not stated |
| 4 | New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 | Running Shoe | Mesh | Lace-up | Fresh Foam X | Not stated |
| 5 | New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 | Running Shoe | Not stated | Not stated | Fresh Foam | Rubber |
| 6 | New Balance Made | Running Shoe | Mesh | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
– = not stated on the Amazon listing. Specs as stated by the listing, not tested by us; check the listing before you buy.
Reviews: The Best New Balance Shoes for Cross Training
In our list, we have some of the most exquisite shoe models that you can wear for cross training, from the brand New Balance;
1
Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- All-new Infinion technology delivers premium underfoot cushioning with enhanced energy return, designed for long-lasting performance run after run, a useful trait in New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Built with NDurance rubber in high-wear areas for increased durability, ensuring reliable traction and longevity through hundreds of miles, helpful on the surfaces you meet during workouts.
- Stylish molded mesh upper provides a breathable, supportive fit with a modern aesthetic that transitions easily from run to daily wear, a feature worth weighing when comparing New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Plush cushioned tongue and heel tab deliver added comfort and easy on-off convenience, reducing pressure points during long runs, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- All-new Infinion cushioning delivers long-lasting performance with enhanced cushioning and energy return, providing a plush yet responsive ride mile after mile.
- Built for daily road running with a balanced combination of soft cushioning and responsive energy return that runners have come to rely on in the 1080 series.
- Breathable Upper Design: lightweight, ventilated upper keeps your feet cool and dry during long runs, with a secure fit that moves naturally with your stride.
2
Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam x comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- These womens running shoes feature Fresh Foam X midsole technology for premium cushioning every stride, a useful trait in New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Breathable knit upper provides superior comfort in these New Balance running shoes women love for daily runs, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Durable rubber outsole ensures lasting performance in these Fresh Foam running shoes mile after mile, a useful trait in New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Lightweight construction reduces fatigue in these comfortable running shoes women rely on for every workout, so the shoe does not feel heavy during workouts.
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers the brand’s most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort.
- Structured yet breathable upper.
- Due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 6 mm drop are approximate.
3
Cross Training Shoe
- The New Balance 608V5 is a casual Cross Trainer with a shock-absorbing midsole and internal shank for stability.
- It has leather uppers and a rubber outsole.
- There is ABZORB cushioning and IMEVA midsole.
- Inside is a Phantom liner and less seaming.
4
Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content delivers the brand’s most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- These running shoes for women feature a gusseted tongue designed to help keep debris out.
- Synthetic and engineered mesh upper, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- Adjustable lace closure for a customized fit, worth noting if fit is a priority for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Men’s and women’s versions are listed separately on Amazon, each with its own size range.
- Check the Amazon listing for current colors and size availability before you order.
- Compare the size chart on the listing, since fit can vary between colorways and versions.
5
Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Plush Fresh Foam cushioning absorbs impact and delivers a soft, comfortable ride for road runs and everyday wear, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Targeted heel support provides a secure, locked-in fit that keeps your foot stable and comfortable throughout your run, a feature worth weighing when comparing New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Ndurance Outsole: durable NDurance rubber outsole technology handles road miles and daily wear while maintaining reliable traction on multiple surfaces, helpful on the surfaces you meet during workouts.
- Bootie Construction: soft, sock-like bootie wraps your foot for a smooth, comfortable feel with no irritating seams against your skin, a useful trait in New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Removable Arch Support: the removable insole with built-in arch support adapts to your unique foot shape for personalized comfort all day.
- Truly Unique: the New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 running shoes are the ultimate in casual athletic style.
- Feel like you’re running or walking in the clouds.
6
Mesh Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles
The New Balance Made comes in men’s and women’s versions, and this running shoe is worth a look for New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Premium Performance Running Shoes: the 1540v3 Running Shoe is crafted with premium materials and technologies for discerning consumers who are serious about athletic style and performance.
- Cushioned Support: the ENCAP midsole technology in these cushioned running shoes combines lightweight foam with a polyurethane rim to help deliver all-day support and impressive durability.
- These comfortable running shoes feature a ROLLBAR stability post system designed to control rear-foot movement for enhanced support with every stride, a feature worth weighing when comparing New Balance shoes for cross training.
- Your feet are sure to look as good as they feel in the stylish and breathable uppers of these premium running shoes, made of mesh and synthetic materials, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
- As of April 2021, the 1540v3 will no longer be produced in the United States.
- With the performance-inspired updates, the New Balance Classics Made in USA 990v6 sneakers will elevate your everyday style while providing cushioned comfort, which helps keep long stretches of workouts comfortable.
- Breathable textile lining, which helps feet stay comfortable through workouts.
Index Table: Top Rated New Balance Shoes for Cross Training
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance® - Supportive Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 2 | New Balance® - Cushioned Lightweight Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 3 | New Balance® - Cross Training Shoe |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 4 | New Balance® - Cushioned Breathable Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 5 | New Balance® - Cushioned Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
| 6 | New Balance® - Mesh Stability Running Shoe for Daily Miles |  |  |
| New Balance |
Update History
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 520V7 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V15
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 623V3 to New Balance Fresh Foam x
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 1080 V12 to New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V14
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V2 to New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1
- Oct 2026: Updated New Balance 1540V3 to New Balance Made
- Jul 2022: First published
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