6 BEST GYM SHOES FOR RUNNING AND LIFTING | Hybrid Options!

[@martin3958]

This guy deserves way more than 37k subscribers, actual useful and practical content.

[@thatfitfriend]

Ay, I appreciate you saying that and this is the best type of compliment, but 37k is a lot! That's a whole college right there which is mindblowing to me. I think about this a lot, tbh. Isn't it funny how social media has warped out perceptions of certain numbers over the last few years. In 2016, 37k would have been a lot on YT, now it's considered "smaller" channel. Grateful for who's here and it will go up over time. We just gotta keep chipping.

[@capt1941]

Awesome review, as always. #helpful

[@thatfitfriend]

Haha, thank you! Not by G, though, I'm #unhelpful - probably the most #unhelpful in the game

[@Mr.Doyles_channel]

First 🎉🎉🎉 Keep up the great work Jake!

[@thatfitfriend]

Let's gooo! Hope you're doing well :)

[@korea101]

Hi Jake! Just wanna say that i got myself the Puma Pwr Nitro Sq after watching yr vids. Its very light and comfy for my wide feet. I also feel that i have a lil high arc feet. The sock-like fit of the shoe is really comfortable for me. Have been using the shoes for about 2months now and have been performing well. Mainly for cardio, hiit classes and light weight training. Thanks for the review n tips!

[@thatfitfriend]

Ay, love hearing that. Appreciate you sharing feedback and your experiences!

[@loea3107]

Great content. I got the inov8 f-fly TTS. And I have a e width foot also. I felt there was some spillover around the mid foot and not as stable for mobility work. What would you recommend with something for lifting, running 1-3 miles, some mobility work, and something with a bout 4mm and above drop?

[@thatfitfriend]

RAD ONE would be a safe bet, imo

[@JDeezle21]

Puma❤

[@steelorivera1062]

great video!!! I most do strength training and some interval running 20-30mins and would like a shoe I could also wearing when I'm out casually with friends and have to do a lot of standing or walking do you have any suggestions oh and I have a wide foot?

[@thatfitfriend]

Inov8 F-Fly. I'd grab them and give them a go. They should fit the bill nicely!

[@piyushvashistha5822]

I have overpronation , which shoe can be best for gym, little but running and travelling and if i want to wear shoe for long day

[@thatfitfriend]

RAD ONE can be a good pick in that context, same with the Air Zoom TR 1 here!

[@Yami-Diablo]

What shoe would you recommend for someone who always starts their workouts running the treadmill for about 10 minutes just to warm up, then proceeds to lift/workout?

[@thatfitfriend]

Most options should work, tbh. Inov-8 F-Fly don't miss, though, and they're a sick option if you plan to run more at any point!

[@suede2009]

I’d be curious to know your thoughts between the Inov-8 F-Fly and the On Cloudpulse (On’s new trainers) shoes when it comes to which is better as a hybrid.

[@thatfitfriend]

F fly, cloudpulse have worked but they’re a bit chonky and I’d put them more head to head with the puma model featured in here!

[@chalky7319]

Hi Jake. I really like F-lite G300. Do you think the F-Fly will replace it and is it a better shoe?

[@thatfitfriend]

I don't think so. They have different performance intents. G 300 is much more stable and dialed for CF so it's different enough, imo

[@lowsaiyan]

Hey man, what shoes do you recommend for lifting and calf raises?

[@thatfitfriend]

A lot of models can work for that! A barefoot shoe will give you the most flexibility if you're after max ROM, tho. Dropset/Reign 6/Nike Flex Control 4 can all work if you need some training shoe options

[@lowsaiyan]

@thatfitfriend thank you very much for the recommendations. I like Dropset 3 very much but cannot find my size in my country. I only found Nike Metcon 9, is it good?

[@rileeb848]

Thank you for this! I'm primarily a runner/jump roper who is dabbling in VERY light bodyweight training. I have a question: 1st are you originally from New England??? I've never heard anyone outside of NE use "wicked" in the same context. I usually get picked on for using it when I'm outside of New England. 😂 On a more serious topic, I run a range of about 20-50 miles per Week. And I LOVE barefoot shoes. And have run a lot in Xero HFS shoes. I tried flux Adapt runners, but they are INSANELY heavy for me. I am wondering if you think that cross trainers or hybrid shoes could be just as good and if there is a noticeable difference for running specifically between gym shoes/hybrid and barefoot shoes?

[@thatfitfriend]

Haha, nooo! But I did live on Long Island, and then in Hoboken/NYC for 8 years and my best friend is from Boston. I love WICKED. I get picked on, too, but it's just because people know we're low-key cooler than em. I'd look into something like the Inov8 F Fly. It does a great job for delivering what you're asking, imo, especially if you want a bit more midsole and like the lightweight/flexibility that you get from barefoot shoes. Some models can feel heavier than others depending on their biases. For example, a class-focused shoe like the PUMA in this video will be more built-out. Not a bad thing, per se, but it will give you a different feel and there isn't a consistent feel with most gym/hybrid shoes as they all their pros/cons.

[@rileeb848]

@thatfitfriend thank you so much for such a kind and thorough response!

[@thatfitfriend]

@@rileeb848 welcome! Shout if you ever have future Qs

[@simonpowell6127]

Great content Jake, appreciated! Quick question on the F-Fly: how is the grip? I am wondering in particular how it will perform for the Hyrox sled push. Thanks! 😃

[@thatfitfriend]

I think you'll be fine in them, I've been using them for my sled work on the turf as I rehab my old a*s knees and they've been solid!

[@kendrapearson6797]

Hey Jake, I do a combo between bodybuilding splits and power lift splits. I wear Nike Metcons now, but I am doing 30min to an hour of speed walking/jogging after my LEG day. I love my Metcons for lifting but HATE for cardio.... what do you suggest for a hybrid in this instance? Thanks so much!

[@thatfitfriend]

Inov8 F Fly - wider forefoot and a little more flexible and have a minimalist vibe. Nike Free Metcon 5/6 - decent for lifting and running, 6 is a little more running-friendly Those would be the models I start with!

[@Phoenix-ov5gg]

I have a free metcon 6, it is super comfy and versatile, I love it… though I have regrets about the colourway I chose… olive green… it doesn’t seem to go with anything i put on…

[@ZazBrownGaming]

I’m kinda stuck on what to get 😂 In terms of cardio, I only really do the stair master for 20mins or so, followed my free weights and machines. I’ve got a flatter foot, which more recently my left foot arch has began to hurt abit 😂 but what would be your recommendation of trainer to consider! Love the channel and thank you!

[@thatfitfriend]

CloudPulse or F-Fly would be recs for you. Go Cloud if you like more structure in your shoes, F-Fly if you're more of a minimalist fan

[@ZazBrownGaming]

@@thatfitfriend thanks bud! I’ve come across the cloudpulse! I’ll take a deeper look into them thank you! I’ve also noticed On Cloud Cloudnova Flux..there’s doesn’t seem to be many reviews on these, would you also recommend these or are they tailored for different use? Thank again :)

[@r.saerang6869]

Hi @thatfitfriend Your fans from Indonesia here! I just bought Dropset for my strength day training in F45. But, for my cardio, I do still don't know which one to buy, this Puma or Nike Air Zoom TR1?

[@thatfitfriend]

Hit you back on my other video!

[@r.saerang6869]

@thatfitfriend thank you for replying! OMG! Godspeed, sir!

[@NishankSingla]

I am looking for shoes for Orange Theory Fitness workouts. Based on your videos, I have tried Reebok Nano x4, UA TriBase Reign 5, Adidas Dropset Trainer 2, and Nike Metcon 5. Nothing has worked so far for me. They are all very uncomfortable for running sessions at OTF, which are usually about 25 to 30 minutes long. Can you please suggest good hybrid shoes that are comfortable for running and weight lifting?

[@thatfitfriend]

Inov8 F Fly or Adidas Rapidmove can work!

[@buccianti]

I’m 6’3” and don’t like a lot of these new high heel stack shoes that add a few more inches to my height 😅 would love some recommendations. Mostly casual running and gym workouts. I’ve been eyeing the On Cloud X3 👀

[@thatfitfriend]

On Cloud X3 or F-Fly would be solid bets, imo! Give me some inches...pls?

[@joaquinoreamuno1677]

Awesome review! Do you think the Vans Ultrarange Exo is a good shoe for running and lifting? Thanks!

[@thatfitfriend]

They can be okay - a little meh for running, though! Short runs, they can work

[@berrydinglejr]

I feel like you've probably answered this in past videos, but would you recommend the Vans ultrarange exo for shorter metcon runs? I only have nanos and I constantly get shin splints, but my gym usually programs a lift with a run, and I'm a heavier lifter, so they work great for that part.

[@thatfitfriend]

Yeah, they should be okay! I’d try them out - they’ll def feel better than Metcons, lol

[@kevcordes21]

My work outs are mainly weight lifting and 20min hill sprints for cardio. Mid to narrow foot. What would you recommend? Was looking at Flux but nervous they would feel too lose on my foot

[@thatfitfriend]

Flux are meh and not worth it, imo. I'd grab the RAD ONE or Free Metcon/Air Zoom TR!

[@kevcordes21]

@ Thanks man, appreciate the feedback

[@thatfitfriend]

@@kevcordes21 if none of those work, let me know!

[@kevcordes21]

What are your thoughts on Nike Flex Control 4?

[@coerc4831]

What brand shorts are you wearing at 2:08?

[@thatfitfriend]

BYLT Active+ I have a review on them!

[@WilliamArce-z7q]

Hey Jake, Awesome video. What an amazing shoe collection you've got. I love running and working out. I switched to barefoot shoes a long time ago and got two pairs of the Hykes Pinnacle-one for the gym (especially for leg day) and the other for running/walking. What do you think about barefoot shoes for working out and running? Thanks for sharing! 🤛🤛

[@thatfitfriend]

Can be great depending on preferences! Shoe selection in that context is highly individual and context dependent. My biggest advice to most is to rotate shoes based on what allows you to perform your best. Get to go hard without skipping a beat and expose the ankles/feet to different stressors!

[@Murphy2043]

I have a narrow foot and still had to size up half a size in the Vimana Hybrid Runner for length. I wear socks with them, and Jake doesn't, so maybe that bought him some extra space. And I heard of the shoe thanks to this channel 👌

[@thatfitfriend]

Ayyy, thank you for sharing some sizing thoughts! This def helps add depth

[@MrKrakuza]

Thanks for making content like this, I'm still in the process of finding new shoes. I currently wear New Balance 990 size 13, 4E. In the gym, I mainly do squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and the treadmill as my cardio. What are your current top recommendations for someone like me? Any help is appreciated, I'm way too indecisive lol

[@thatfitfriend]

Go VIKTOS Core Gym or Born Prim Savage 1...they'll be decent for that width, however, can run a little denser for running. UA Charged Commit 3/4 wide can be a good budget option

[@Alessandrea-s4c]

⁠@@thatfitfriendHey brother, my husband really love the born prim shoes. Thank you so much for that recommendation!!!❤🎉 more power to your channel

[@Castro_GreedCasta22]

Thanks for the insight bro

[@thatfitfriend]

Appreciate you checking this video out!

[@mikemazzi226]

Hi Jake ! Wich one you recommend for mildly jogging and gym , i wear wide shoes .Not heavy lifting ( less than 250lbs)

[@thatfitfriend]

CloudPulse or PUMA models would work great, imo. If you want a more minimalist ride, go F-Fly!

[@gabrielpina4]

Check out the new flux adapt trail runner shoes i think the shoe is adaptable for anything been using it daily now for 10 mile runs and heavy weights and they feel amazing ..

[@thatfitfriend]

I have a pair. They're on my to-do list :) Stoked you've been liking them

[@adelalaiev8272]

How are you still liking these? Would they be okay for treadmill running as well? I wonder if the spikes on the bottom would make it uncomfortable for treadmill but it looks great for outdoor running. And you saying that you lift in them sounds like a dream hybrid for me! Would really appreciate a response!

[@markvdoesthings]

What's the best shoes on this list that are good for running and flexibility? I am entering middle school, and I don't want to struggle in physical activities.

[@thatfitfriend]

If you have a wider foot, look into the Inov8 F Fly. These will have a more minimalist vibe to em, too. These could be good for also helping you build some passive foot/ankle strength as well. The Nike Free Metcon line can also be great to explore if you're after flexibility.

[@coopertodd28]

Love the list. The Nikes Tr zoom 1’s are stupid bouncy!

[@thatfitfriend]

MAD bouncy!

[@tinocabral4201]

I’m in between the Inov-8 F-Fly, the Vimana hybrid, as well as the adidas total weightlifting shoes, and archetype 2.0. Won’t be doing any running. I only lift weights, I have flat feet, and also hope to strengthen my arches. I also want something that doesn’t hurt top of foot when I do lunges, so more flexible shoe I guess

[@thatfitfriend]

Good Q - I'd go Total in your case. Tolos Arch 2 can work as well, but it's a barefoot shoe so you'll want to acclimate to them slowly!

[@leekellehern7]

Hey man. any suggestions on best shoes for lifting but to wear all day whilst walking around / doing personal training sessions / coaching etc. I currently wear nano flex trx 2.0 for lifting / daily wear and nano x3 for heavier sessions but looking to treat myself to a new pair of gym shoes I can wear all day.

[@thatfitfriend]

RAD ONE or STR/KE Haze Trainer are my faves. Look good and are comfy + baller for training. RAD has a bit more sole to it and sizes a smidge more narrow. Haze is wider and has a more minimalist vibe

[@leekellehern7]

@@thatfitfriend amazing, thanks my man!

[@thatfitfriend]

@@leekellehern7 got you! Keep me posted on what you end up grabbing and how you like em

[@leekellehern7]

@@thatfitfriend will do man! are they both same size as what I’d wear in my nano x3’s out of interest?

[@thatfitfriend]

@@leekellehern7 Yeah, some folks sized down in their X3s, but I found I never had to. Should be safe going TTS in em. If you have wider feet and want the RAD go up a half size to play it safe

[@nguyentuean1092]

Any alternative for the RAD 1? A dense shoes with durability and stability but around 150 to 200$? Im in Vietnam Asia so I looking convinience shipping. Thanks a lot

[@thatfitfriend]

Need it for CrossFit, lifting, or hybrid-esque training?

[@Phoenix-ov5gg]

Is the f fly suitable for ee size feet? I see they have a wide version too 🤔

[@thatfitfriend]

Yep!

[@cosmosjane]

Are these shoe suggestions also generally good for walking all day and lifting as part of work and not just gym? Looking for something to gift my bf and possible decrease stress on his body at work 😊

[@thatfitfriend]

Yeah, they can be! What does he wear currently and what does he do? I can help suggest some better picks with a little more context.

[@Phoenix-ov5gg]

What are your thoughts on the adidas dropset and under armour tribase?

[@thatfitfriend]

Dropset if you want a higher heel-to-toe drop and more of a "weightlifting shoe" feel. Reign 6 if you want a flatter feeling shoe that is also a little more plush

[@jgkwall22]

Great video, thank you for getting in depth with these and actually using them so you have experience to present . I had a question, would you stay away from the ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 for heavy weightlifting and intense sprinting/stair master sessions ?

[@thatfitfriend]

For heavier lifting, yes. Would prob be fine for most folks sprinting and stair needs, though. Thank you!

[@jgkwall22]

@@thatfitfriend Thank you so much for that helpful information . I really appreciate you even replying back to my comment . Keep up with awesome content !

[@thatfitfriend]

@@jgkwall22 of course, homie! Thank you 😊

[@ahaithcock03]

Any thoughts on the Nike Sabrina 2 for lifting and training?

[@thatfitfriend]

Can be great! Most basketball, tennis, and pickleball shoes are fantastic in the gym. They're built with components of cross-training in mind, so I'd send it in em' if you like em!

[@janangelodadis2805]

Will the Nike Pegasus 41 be included in this list?

[@thatfitfriend]

They're a pure running shoe - different context here!

[@aresmarv1075]

Hi Jake, can I get a link where to get the same color model of your rad one please.. can’t find the same color online😢 thank you

[@thatfitfriend]

They may not carry it anymore, tbh! RAD does small colorway batches

[@nanojimenez7079]

Is the Nike Air Zoom TR 1 good for long distance running too?

[@thatfitfriend]

You can use em for a few miles! I wouldn't use them for runs longer than a 5k, though, as you may find them a little dense for that!

[@roryslattery4319]

Just bought the Reebok nano x4 for the gym, should have waited for the video 😅

[@thatfitfriend]

No, they should be fine! They’re in the same category as the rad one for me. No ragrats!

[@prongpraison8463]

I want tyr but a little bit concerned for the fits. They have wider version but it I read many comments and people said it’s still narrow. Also, since it’s bigger than normal, I wonder if it’s ok for deadlift.

[@thatfitfriend]

It's fine for deads, but yeah, the wide isn't that wide, tbh. Have you considered the Reebok Nano 2.0 or Born Primitive Savage 1?

[@cjrulem]

Great video! Any chance we can see a review of the Rudis Journey? I would be very curious as to how it stacks up to other "hybrid" shoes.

[@thatfitfriend]

Thank you! Tbh, I hate them. Bought a pair and few months back and they were so uncomfortable for my feet I gave them away. That is a review that will likely never come 😅

[@cmoorhead1]

Also liking the UA Tribase Reign 6

[@thatfitfriend]

Love that

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

Puma nitro consider a running shoe? 🤔

[@thatfitfriend]

Not full running shoe, think of it as HIIT/class shoe. Can work for running, though.

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

@@thatfitfriend for one day with weights fine?

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

@@thatfitfriend do you try new balance 530 or fila shoes? I see that is trending now to train with new balance haha

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

@@thatfitfriend also to lift right?

[@andrewjudd9001]

I think if you can build up your running capacity in Barefoot shoes a not super minimalist barefoot option can be great for running and lifting.

[@thatfitfriend]

Absolutely can, and I have a sep video coming out discussing acclimation strategies! However, not everyone has the patience/want to do that. For example, my mom was asking me the other week about hybrid shoes and she has no desire to go the bf route/spend the time acclimating to them. Layers of context there and def need separate videos there to cover that topic with justice

[@grillme6272]

Hi i’m looking for a shoe with 0 to little wedge , a wide toe box like altras, and support for a high arch. I do heavy lifting, walking, and stairmaster.

[@thatfitfriend]

Are you open to barefoot shoes or do you want a more traditional model? What do you wear currently?

[@jnas13]

Was literally looking for a post like this on your web page earlier 😂. Looking for something for sub 5k running in CrossFit, and something like Murph

[@thatfitfriend]

Go F-Fly, they've quickly become my fave shoe for that context!

[@JaanSareen]

I would like a weightlifting shoe . But I would also like to be able to wear them all day like school etc. What would u recommend ?

[@thatfitfriend]

Cross-training shoes to looking into: Nike Free Metcon 6, Haze Trainer, RAD ONE, and Nano X4. All can be decent for all-day wear and diff types of training!

[@JDeezle21]

I vote Puma Pwr Nitro

[@biglesbird]

Stinky feet

[@gachagaming-ky6ci]

What if you want weight lifting and long distance running in small extremes

[@thatfitfriend]

Eh, depending on what long means to you it will vary. F-Fly can work for 5ks pretty comfortably, the the other models can work for a couple of miles. If you're sending it for longer than 5ks and lifting heavy, I'd suggest getting two different shoes for the jobs!

[@calebshields1816]

Great video!

[@thatfitfriend]

Thank you!

[@dharusansivanandarajah3613]

Would the Inov8 F Fly help for people with flat fleet?

[@thatfitfriend]

It can for some, but note, the midfoot is pretty tapered in them. What do you currently wear?

[@RITHESHTHEPOKEMONLOVER]

Any laceless shoes for lifting and 30 mins of cardio ?

[@thatfitfriend]

New Balance Minimus TR BOA can work! Outside of that shoe, I'm not sure of other laceless options!

[@rosserickson506]

Suggestions for high arches? That said I also wear orthotics

[@thatfitfriend]

The PUMA model here and Air Zoom TR1 can be good options to try!

[@taylormaahs9495]

Do the Inov8 f-fly run small or true to size ?

[@thatfitfriend]

True to size for most, but if you have a notably wide foot, then you'll want to go up a half-size!

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

Do you think that puma disperse xt 2 mesh Would it also be a hybrid shoe?

[@thatfitfriend]

As a budget option, it looks like it could be solid! I haven't tested it, though

[@ThaisRubio-qt4kf]

@@thatfitfriend And the Puma Nitro shoe that you show here, then would it be suitable for weight training? I train at home and I like barefoot but there are days I want to wear shoes because sometimes I want to feel more confident, what shoes would you recommend?

[@krtybee]

Is nike pegasus 40 good for lifting and running as well?

[@Ophio117]

No, it’s on the pure running side. Plenty of people make it work though

[@thatfitfriend]

You can lift in them, but they'll have stability thresholds. If you're wanting to double down on your performance in both verticals then I'd suggest having separate tools for different jobs. Grab a shoe for running when you're doing longer distances and a trainer for your lifting + cross-training sessions. Your shoes will last longer, too, by rotating them!

[@stensonpierre6022]

I need romaleos and zoom tr 1.

[@rosscarder8935]

RAD ones for Hyrox?

[@thatfitfriend]

I’ve had friends use them and they didn’t mind them. Said they were a smidge dense but worked well!

[@christianalvizar606]

Nobull drive good for running and lifting?

[@thatfitfriend]

Stink for lifting and feel rather cheap. Have a video on them

[@ra0333]

Have you ever tried anything from Altra? I’ve been very curious about the escalante and solstice. Defiantly leaning in the running end of the spectrum, but I’m curious why I don’t hear about them more. great stuff as always!

[@thatfitfriend]

Yeah, I've reviewed the Solstice XT 2! They're not bad. The durability on their outsole can be "meh" though so I'm hoping that gets fixed in the XT 3 so I can recommend them more without worry of breakdown

[@KisanRenewableSolutions]

Why don't you review Asics. They're pretty good too

[@thatfitfriend]

Have never really been on my radar. Have any models you’d vouch for that I should buy/try?

[@Phoenix-ov5gg]

They seem to have excellent running shoes, I myself have a nimbus, but gym/weightlifting/crossfit, they don’t seem to have anything..

[@JustinTechRev]

Avancus 2.0 review please...

[@thatfitfriend]

Boyyyy you know they’re on my radar

[@anshikapandey8453]

Best nike for weight training under 100$ ?

[@thatfitfriend]

Mc Trainer 3

[@anshikapandey8453]

@@thatfitfriend what about air zoom tr1 and free metcon 5 are they better for weight training than mc trainer 3

[@silentthunder2108]

Is the air zoom only a male shoe?

[@thatfitfriend]

Sizes unisex, I believe!

[@sammysmith9698]

Love the list!! Can you please do the same list for some budget friendly running and lifting shoes? PS Haven't been on youtube lately, seeing you after a long time, you definitely are aging backwards my friend😂😂. Keep it up!

[@thatfitfriend]

I have a budget training shoe video coming out in the next few weeks! Haha, it's just endless injection of botox every single week prior to videos. I'm going to look 10 by the end of the year

[@andresamell9367]

I feel like R.A.D instead of keep releasing new colorways should be releasing at least 2 new shoes.

[@thatfitfriend]

I don't mind that they're not innovating all of the time, honestly, but it would be cool to see a "wide" version or a new model in the next year. My fear is some of the smaller brands breaking good things by trying to innovate all of the time like Nike, Reebok, etc. Curious for your Haze Trainer feedback

[@bougeorgie7666]

Hit that like button !

[@thatfitfriend]

Ayy thank you!

[@Commenter912]

Smash that like button

[@bradyoung3536]

I thought it said somene was cooking

[@thatfitfriend]

@@bradyoung3536 where??? 😂

[@dontsaygabe]

All OC’s start to squeak over time. It’s the sole design they refuse to fix. So disappointing bc I used to have an addiction to this brand.

[@thatfitfriend]

@@dontsaygabe big company problems ngl