Best Training Shoes in 2026: 8 Picks Compared on Specs
The New Balance 608 V5 for men takes the top spot as a well-rounded cross trainer with a wide version available. Picks are chosen from the catalog, comparing stated specifications like width and mid-top design; no shoe has been tested. Prices are live from the listing and updated at the time of writing.
7 picks from 8 sneakers that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
| # | Pick | Sneaker | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best overall | New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | $64.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details) |
| 2 | Best for wide feet | New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | $55.99 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details) |
| 3 | Best women's standard fit | New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | $59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details) |
| 4 | Best women's wide fit | New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | $59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details) |
| 5 | Best for cross training classes | PUMA Women's Tazon 6 Cross Training Shoes | |
| 6 | Best mid-top design | PUMA Womens Defy Mid Training Sneakers Shoes | $59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:47 PST - Details) Typical price: |
| 7 | Best for road running | ASICS Women's Gt-2000 6 Training Shoes | $2,539.13 (as of 11/04/2026 12:36 PST - Details) |
The best fit for you
- For men seeking a standard fit: The New Balance 608 V5 in standard width is a classic choice for men who want a reliable cross trainer. See pick 1
- For women who need a wide fit: The New Balance 608 V5 wide version is designed for women who need extra room in the toe box. See pick 4
- For cross training classes: PUMA's Tazon 6 is marketed as a cross training shoe, suitable for gym workouts and fitness routines. See pick 5
Our 7 picks
1 Best overall
New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
- For
- Men
- Use
- Training
$64.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details)
This New Balance 608 V5 is a classic cross trainer with a standard men's fit, and a wide version of the same model is also available in this list, making it a versatile choice. Compared with the PUMA Tazon 6, it offers a more traditional design that suits a range of gym activities.
Pros
- Standard men's fit
- Wide version of the same model exists
- Classic cross trainer design
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Not stated whether it has a removable insole
- Only one colorway in this listing
Good fit if
- Men who want a reliable cross trainer for gym and everyday wear
- Those who may consider a wide size later
Skip if
- You prefer a mid-top shoe for ankle support
- You need a women's-specific model
Verdict: A solid all-rounder for men who value simplicity and brand reliability.
2 Best for wide feet
New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
- For
- Men
- Use
- Training
- Wide fit
- Yes
$55.99 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details)
Listed as 3X-Wide, this is the widest option in the entire pool, offering ample room for men with broader feet. It shares the same model and build as the overall pick, so you get the same classic design with extra width.
Pros
- Extra-wide 3X fit
- Same dependable model as the top pick
- Black colorway is easy to pair
Cons
- Only available in black
- Men's specific; no women's equivalent in this width
Good fit if
- Men with wide or extra-wide feet
- Those who prioritize toe room
Skip if
- You need a narrow or standard width
- You prefer a colorful design
Verdict: The best choice for men who need extra width without sacrificing the classic cross trainer feel.
3 Best women's standard fit
New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
- For
- Women
- Use
- Training
$59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details)
This women's version of the 608 V5 offers a standard width that complements the men's model, making it a dependable choice for women. It is similar in design but tailored with women's sizing.
Pros
- Women's specific sizing
- Standard width for a typical fit
- Light blue and white colorway
Cons
- No wide option in this specific listing
- Only one colorway available
Good fit if
- Women who want a straightforward cross trainer
- Those who prefer a standard width
Skip if
- You need a wide width
- You want a mid-top design
Verdict: A reliable women's training shoe that gets the job done.
4 Best women's wide fit
New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
- For
- Women
- Use
- Training
- Wide fit
- Yes
$59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:22 PST - Details)
The only women's wide option in this pool, this 608 V5 variant provides the room that many women need for comfort during workouts. It shares the same trustworthy build as the other 608 V5 models.
Pros
- Wide fit specifically for women
- Trusted New Balance quality
- Two-tone light blue design
Cons
- Only one colorway
- Not available in standard width
Good fit if
- Women with wide feet
- Those who need extra space in the toe box
Skip if
- You have a narrow or standard foot
- You prefer a low-cut design (this is low, but not stated, so maybe skip if you want a mid-top)
Verdict: A go-to pick for women who need extra width in a cross trainer.
5 Best for cross training classes
PUMA positions the Tazon 6 as a cross training shoe, and its sleek profile makes it a good fit for group fitness classes. It is available in two colorways, offering a bit of variety without leaving the standard width.
Pros
- Designed specifically for cross training
- Two colorways to choose from
- Sleek and modern look
Cons
- No wide option available
- Not stated if it has arch support
Good fit if
- Women who participate in high-energy workouts
- Those who want a lightweight feel
Skip if
- You need a wide width
- You prefer a more traditional trainer design
Verdict: A solid choice for women who spend time in the gym and want a shoe that moves with them.
6 Best mid-top design
PUMA Womens Defy Mid Training Sneakers Shoes
- For
- Women
- Use
- Training
$59.95 (as of 11/04/2026 00:47 PST - Details) Typical price: $66.95, 10% off
This is the only mid-top shoe in the pool, offering potential ankle coverage that the low-cut models do not. Its black colorway and women's sizing make it a distinct option for those who want extra support around the ankle.
Pros
- Mid-top design for ankle coverage
- Women's specific sizing
- Classic black colorway
Cons
- No wide option listed
- Limited information on cushioning
Good fit if
- Women who want ankle support
- Those who like a slightly higher cut
Skip if
- You prefer low-top shoes
- You need a wide fit
Verdict: A unique mid-top pick that stands out for its ankle coverage.
7 Best for road running
ASICS Women's Gt-2000 6 Training Shoes
- For
- Women
- Use
- Training
$2,539.13 (as of 11/04/2026 12:36 PST - Details)
ASICS is well known for its running shoes, and the GT-2000 6 is often used by runners, even though it appears here as a training shoe. It is the only pick from a brand that specializes in running footwear.
Pros
- Trusted running shoe brand
- Road running heritage
- Available in UK/EU sizing
Cons
- No wide option listed
- Only one colorway in this pool
Good fit if
- Women who also run on roads
- Those who value a specialized running brand
Skip if
- You are strictly looking for a gym cross trainer
- You require a wide width
Verdict: A premium option for runners who want a shoe that can also handle training sessions.
Specifications side by side
| # | Sneaker | For | Use | Cut | Slip-on | Wide fit | Leather |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | Men | Training | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | Men | Training | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 3 | New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | Women | Training | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | New Balance Women's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer | Women | Training | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 5 | PUMA Women's Tazon 6 Cross Training Shoes | Women | Training | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | PUMA Womens Defy Mid Training Sneakers Shoes | Women | Training | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | ASICS Women's Gt-2000 6 Training Shoes | Women | Training | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How the picks were chosen
The pool file listed 10 priced listings; after removing duplicates that differ only by color, 8 distinct entries remain. The selection includes all 8 to cover the available width and color variants. Specifications such as gender, width, and use case are taken from the catalog entries. Prices are read live from the store listing and shown beside each pick. No shoe was tested by this site; selections are based on maker-published information and the catalog specifications.
Picking the right one for you
Fit and width: your first priority
A training shoe must fit well to prevent blisters and discomfort. Look for width options if you have wider feet. In this list, the New Balance 608 V5 is the only model that comes in wide versions for both men and women. If you are between sizes, consider trying a wide size or choosing a model with a roomier toe box. The catalog does not state the width of the PUMA or ASICS models, so you may need to order your usual size and check the fit.
Gender-specific designs matter
Men's and women's shoes differ in more than just size. Women's models often have a narrower heel and a different shape to accommodate the foot. The New Balance 608 V5 and PUMA Tazon 6 are explicitly listed as women's or men's. If you are shopping for someone else, pay attention to the 'gender' field in the listing to ensure you pick the correct version. Using a men's shoe for a woman may cause issues if the fit is not ideal.
Training vs. running: know your activity
Training shoes are designed for lateral movements, gym workouts, and general fitness, while running shoes prioritize forward motion and cushioning. The ASICS GT-2000 6 is often used for running, but it is listed here under training, so it can serve both purposes. If your routine includes both running and gym work, look for a versatile shoe like the New Balance 608 V5. The PUMA Tazon 6 is marketed for cross training, making it a better fit for high-intensity interval classes.
Mid-top vs. low-top: what's the difference?
Mid-top shoes extend above the ankle and provide extra support, which can be helpful for lateral exercises or if you have a history of ankle sprains. The PUMA Defy Mid is the only mid-top in this list. Low-top shoes, like the New Balance 608 V5, offer more freedom of movement and are lighter. Choose a mid-top if you want extra stability, but go with a low-top if you prioritize agility and a classic feel.
Questions
How do I choose the right size for training shoes?
Always measure your foot and refer to the maker's size chart. Training shoes should have a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, as any shoe measurement guide will confirm. If you have wide feet, consider a wide width option like the New Balance 608 V5 in 3X-Wide for men or the wide version for women. The catalog does not specify if the PUMA or ASICS models are available in wide, so you may need to test the standard width first.
Are training shoes suitable for running?
Some training shoes can handle light jogging, but they are not designed for long-distance running. The ASICS GT-2000 6 is a running shoe that also appears in the training category, so it can do double duty. However, if you run regularly, you may want a dedicated running shoe. For gym workouts, a cross trainer like the PUMA Tazon 6 is more appropriate because it supports lateral movements.
What is the difference between a cross trainer and a running shoe?
Cross trainers are built for multi-directional activities such as weightlifting, aerobics, and court sports. They offer more lateral support and a flatter, more stable base. Running shoes are designed for forward motion with extra cushioning and a curved shape. Choose a cross trainer if you do a variety of workouts, and a running shoe if you mostly run. The New Balance 608 V5 is a classic cross trainer, while the ASICS GT-2000 6 leans toward running.
Why do some shoes list a standard width and others do not?
Brands vary in how they communicate sizing. Some list widths like 'wide' or '3X-Wide' directly in the product name, while others assume a standard width by default. In this pool, the New Balance 608 V5 has explicit wide options, but the PUMA and ASICS models do not mention width, suggesting they are standard. Always check the product description for width information, or contact the brand directly if it is not stated.
Revision notes
- : First published.