Best Cross Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis - Train in Comfort! (2024)

I think you’ll agree with me when I say that finding the best cross training shoes for Plantar Fasciitis that can withstand the rigors of intense workouts while keeping heel pain at bay is like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

Or is it?

Well, it turns out that just because you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis doesn’t mean you should say goodbye to your workouts.

And in today’s post, we’re going to review 10 of the best cross training shoes for Plantar Fasciitis so that you can, again, enjoy your workouts, especially early in the morning.

Related: Best Plantar Fasciitis Running Shoes

12 Best Cross Training Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis,wide feet, high arches, flat feet, wide feet.

As one of Reebok’s best cross training shoes for Plantar Fasciitis, the Nano 9 was specifically built with the CrossFit community in mind. As you can guess from the name, this is the 9^th generation of the shoe in nine years.

Reebok worked really closely with CrossFit athletes of all levels from across the world for guidance and feedback in shaping this version of the shoe. The result is a huge evolution in terms of comfort and overall fit.

Officially dubbed the Nano for all, the Nano tries to be that perfect shoe to fit any variety of fitness activities including short-distance runs, training at the gym, or just weight training.

In spite of the name, the Nano 9 is actually meant for much more than just CrossFit workouts because of its ability to adapt to different use cases as well.

Keep in mind though this is not exactly a running shoe. However, it’s so much more because you can wear this shoe across all types of routines and still look cool wearing it in the office as well.

In Reebok’s Nano line, every odd-numbered model seems to get a sizable update to improve performance and variability. So, in terms of improvements, here’s a couple of things that you see with the Nano 9 vs. the previous iterations.

So there’s:

• a redesigned new flex weave outer construction to better move at your foot.
• a new split outsole for better comfort and reactivity that features Reebok’s MetaSplit grooves for better traction and grip.
• a redesigned midsole and heel construction.

Upper

Starting with the upper, the outer construction of the Reebok CrossFit Nano 9 is made out of the company’s FlexWeave material.

Specific to the Nano 9, the FlexWeave was actually designed to be more accommodating allowing you to maneuver better in this versus traditional FlexWeave that you’d find on other Reebok sneakers.

Just like on the previous Nano series, the FlexWeave wraps around your feet to create a nice lightweight construction.

There’s an additional layer of material towards the toe area which will help protect the shoe from wear and tear during any heel or toe dragging gym movements like burpees or push-ups.

Coming to the midfoot, there are six eyelets running up the sneaker. This is actually a really interesting design that’s very similar to the Reebok Speed TR.

The eyelets are reinforced and the tongue is wide enough and padded to ensure comfort and protection during any gym movements like rope climbing.

The last eyelet extends much higher than the rest so you also have a good amount of ankle stability with these shoes.

The inside of the heel has really good support while the outside of the heel also does a pretty good job of resisting any heel slipping.

Heel Drop

The heel-to-toe drop, aka offset, is about 4mm, which is much lower than most other running shoes. Reebok went for a low profile 4-mm drop to give your foot a much more stable flat position when you’re doing exercises.

Midsole

The midsole of the Nano 9 has been retooled to make the shoe even more comfortable. There’s a nice supportive foam-like material especially towards the toe that has a really good amount of reactivity.

This also allows for seamless toe flex and actually makes the shoe very comfortable to wear. The additional EVA foam cushioning actually feels really great while running or doing any exercises.

As you probably already know, every time you lift weights, your balance actually transfers from either the front to the back or the back to the front or side to side. This cushioning constantly alternates between compression and reaction so it’s much appreciated.

Responsive cushioning is also really important to running shoes as well, which is also why the Nano 9 also makes good running shoes for short distances.

The midfoot of the lateral and medial side of the shoe has a TPU layer that goes all the way from the outside wrapping over the midsole for solid durability and additional comfort.

The TPU actually splits towards the back of the heel to support stability and comfort as well.

Speaking of splits …

Outsole

… the most talked-about thing about the Nano 9 is the split outsole. The split outsole gives much more flexibility for foot movement during workouts.

This also makes it much more comfortable for runs especially thanks to Reebok’s MetaSplit design so there’s no forefoot slap when you’re running around.

Performance

Talking about performance, there’s a couple things you need to look for when buying a good pair of CrossFit sneakers like comfort and variability of course.

Can you wear the shoe to the gym? Can you wear it on your walk to the office? Can you wear it on your walk back home?

Then there’s also the overall stability of the shoe under various workouts like squats or deadlifts or HIIT workouts.

There’s also reactivity and how the sneaker performs during cardio workouts like Zumba or dance fitness or whatever you throw at the sneaker.

The overall comfort, stability, and reactor design actually make the Nano 9 a really great pair of CrossFit sneakers.

It resists compression when you’re weight training and the split outsole and soft midsole are super reactive to handle whatever you throw at them.

So, if you want a pair of gym sneakers that are the jack-of-all-trades, the Reebok CrossFit Nano 9 just might be the perfect shoe for you. Not only does it look cool, but it’s priced pretty much in line with other cross-trainers in the market.

I’m usually very skeptical about cross-trainer shoes, but I actually think Reebok has done a really great job. They’ve made a gym sneaker that brings together comfort and performance as well.

Again, the Nano 9 is one of the best Crossfit shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.

Cons

• Laces are a bit long.

Reebok CrossFit Lifter 2.0

The Lifter 2.0 is a hybrid between Nanos and Olympic weight-lifting shoes and is designed to handle other movements alongside Olympic weight-lifting, gymnastics, and even cardio.

Looking at this shoe, you can definitely notice how different it is from most lifters. The heel is not all that pronounced nor is it a stable pressing surface.

Rather, it provides a good amount of cushion and compresses when you initiate your lift, thereby greatly reducing the shoe’s usefulness during squats and Olympic lifts.

The Lifter 2.0 has only one strap, but it works brilliantly. This midfoot strap holds up well and you won’t encounter any issues with it being in a different location.

The Lifter 2.0 fits true to size though it might be just a touch too large. So it’s pretty wide but very comfortable and surprisingly breathable and lightweight.

Reebok is now done away with the zig-zags at the bottom of the lifters with the 2.0, which means no more punching holes in walls when you go to do handstand pushups.

I’m pretty happy with this change because this was a nagging problem for a lot of people with the 1.0.

How does the Lifter 2.0 perform?

It’s pretty different than other lifting shoes, but it actually achieves its goal of being a more versatile Olympic lifting shoe. I’m not a big fan of the heel but it still undoubtedly makes a difference in lifts. It also manages surprisingly well during other movements.

Burpees isn’t an issue, dropping up higher rings is no problem and even running quick short distances isn’t a hassle.

Cons:

• Fit too narrow.

Asics Gel Noosa Tri 11

Great for

• Plantar Fasciitis, high arches, flat feet, knee pain, bunions, ball of foot pain (Metatarsalgia), hip and joint pain.

This is the 11^th iteration of the Noosa Tri series. It has a great new super-lightweight and stable platform that provides a nice amount of mild to moderate stability, which is perfect for Plantar Fasciitis.

Related:

• Asics Gel Noosa Tri 14 vs Evoride 3

Asics Noosa Tri 11 vs Tri 12

With the release of the Tri 12, is the new iteration better than the already popular and successful Tri 11?

Well, I’m going to focus on one key feature in particular and see whether it’s going to make the Tri 12 a better or worse cross-training shoe for Plantar Fasciitis.

The biggest difference is that the Gel Noosa Tri 12 now comes on a neutral platform and has a consistent density of foam from medial to lateral. The Tri 12 no longer has the Dynamic DuoMax stability system on the medial side that overpronators were enjoying.

Because of the removal of the DuoMax system, I’m confident to say that the Tri 12 is not a good option for Plantar Fasciitis and so the Tri 11 is still going to do the job of giving your feet the support needed better than the Noosa Tri 12.

Arch Support

As one of the best cross-training shoes with arch support, The Gel Noosa Tri 11 offers a great firm ride, stability, and cushioning, which is really helpful for power walks, circuit training, running, high-intensity interval training, and strength training.

The shoe cradles and supports critical areas, which helps keep Plantar Fasciitis at bay. It’s going to be super-fast because of the propulsion plate on the bottom which gives it a spring-loaded ride.

Midsole & Outsole

The shoe’s new re-engineered Solyte midsole is super-light and shock-absorbing even more so than the previous version of the Solyte compound. There’s the IGS (Impact Guidance System) that’ll help the foot through its natural gait cycle and give you a real comfortable heel strike all the way to toe-off.

There’s also rearfoot and forefoot gel cushioning systems and that guidance line technology on the bottom which is going to give you great vertical flex and help keep your foot nice and comfortable throughout the entire cycle.

You have a WetGrip outsole to keep you nice and steady on both wet and dry surfaces.

Upper

Looking to the upper, the shoe features a brand new engineered mesh vamp and seamless construction throughout the rear quarter panel with featherlight synthetic overlays on top of that. This great no-sew seamless construction will help reduce the likelihood of irritation in case you don’t want to wear socks.

You have some elasticity to the laces so when you lace up, you’ll be able to lock everything into place.

There’s plenty of padding on the inside with that soft fabric lining and you also have a perforated sock liner on the bottom to give you enhanced breathability and excellent moisture drainage.

You do have a glow-in-the-dark property throughout that’ll help give you great low-light visibility.

Cons

• Narrow toe area.

Asics DS Trainer 24

The DS Trainer has always been a really nice lightweight option either for workouts or for everyday running. It isn’t just a lightweight shoe; it just also has a little bit more support underfoot thanks to the proven Asics DuoMax system on the medial side.

Upper

What’s going to be new is the addition of a new knit upper material. The upper is super breathable and super light but it’s also going to give your foot a nice wrap and hold.

With that wrap and hold, it’s going to have a more accommodating fit because the DS Trainer is built on a new wider last. So the shape of the shoe and the build of it is going to be a little bit wider so you have a little more room in the toes. The DS Trainer shouldn’t feel snug and supportive but not too tight.

Midsole

In the midsole, there’s the Asics’ FlyteFoam Lite which is a really responsive poppy foam. Overall, the theme of this shoe is going to have a lot of lightweight aspects to it.

This FlyteFoam Lite/DuoMax combo means not only do you have light cushioning and responsiveness for your workouts and running, but you also have the support for your overpronation or flat feet issues.

Also, the firm DuoMax cushioning allows the DS Trainer to be very versatile. You’re going to be able to do any type of cross-training exercises that call for you to put weight on your heels. You’re also going to be able to do any type of running like sprinting, tempo running, and fast-paced sessions.

Outsole

The blown rubber outsole is going to give you nice traction and a good grip on the ground. The bottom also has Asics’ Propulsion Trusstic System which is going to add to the support of the shoe. This means the DS Trainer is going to give you a little bit of support for your Plantar Fasciitis issues.

New Balance 608 V5

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, bad knees, diabetes, swollen feet, high arches, flat feet, wide feet, hammertoes, bunions, hip pain, arthritis, Morton’s Neuroma.

Labeled the best cross-training shoe for the price, the NB 608V5’s level of comfort and support makes it good for cross-training (intense cardio sessions, lifting, light running, walking ..)

Recommended by most chiropractors, the New Balance 608V5 offers proper and comfortable arch support and lateral support capable of healing Plantar Fasciitis.

Yet, for extreme cases of Plantar Fasciitis, you do need to use custom orthotics which the shoe can accommodate comfortably without cramping your toes.

Upper

This very versatile cross-training shoe is made out of either smooth leather or suede material throughout that upper.

It’s really going to give you a locked-in secure fit and provide amazing durability. It has a dual-density collar that uses really soft foam for cushioning but then a firmer density foam for support.

The inside is going to give you a breathable textile Phantom lining that’s odor resistant. The footbed is removable and it’s made out of EVA to provide another layer of extra cushioning and support.

There’s a nice lace-up closure and a handy pull tab at the back for an easy on and off. The upper also has reflective materials throughout so you can be seen in low-light situations.

Midsole

It has an injection-molded EVA midsole that is really thick, super shock-absorbing, and lightweight to keep your feet feeling great without weighing the shoe down and give you plenty of energy return. There’s also a polyurethane insert which is going to give you a firm but also flexible cushioning too.

The ABZORB heel panel is going to give you support while reducing compression during those hard heel strikes, which is going to feel really nice on the legs.

Outsole

On the bottom, there’s a non-marking rubber outsole that will help keep you steady and give you incredible flex. The shoe also features a heel drop of 10 mm and provides plenty of cushioning and performance all throughout.

If you need a shoe that can keep up with your active lifestyle and be perfect for your everyday wear as well, make sure you pick this guy from New Balance.

Cons

• Not very breathable.

Related: Best New Balance Shoes for heel pain

Asics Gel Fit Sana 3

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, bunions,shinsplints, flat feet, wide feet, arthritis.

This is a great pair of trainers that is lightweight, flexible, and fully adaptable. They have alightweight breathable mesh textile and thin synthetic upper with a lace-up closure for a secure and adjustable fit.

Arch Support

The shoe offers decent arch support enough to keep most Plantar Fasciitis cases under control. Yet for maximum control, you would want to add your own inserts to get more support at the arch area.

The Gel Sana 3 features a low profile design with a rearfoot gel cushioning system that’s going to give you a more pleasurable training experience by dispersing the shock that you have once you land when you’re walking or doing high-impact aerobics for example.

Asics Sana also features FlexFit and what it does is it actually secures your heel into the shoe so you don’t have to worry aboutheel slippage.

The toe box is nice and wide and offers plenty of room for your toes during your workouts while the back has a convenient pull loop for easy on and off.

Outsole

The shoe has lots of cushioning and comfort backed with a sturdy outsole. The outsole features AHAR, which is Asics High Abrasion Rubber.

AHAR is Asics’ most durable rubber compound and it’s located in high-impact areas so that you can enjoy your low-impact or high-impact fitness.

You can use these shoes in the gym for cross-training (plyometrics, weight-lifting, aerobics, Zumba, jumping, squatting, elliptical, short runs) or you can walk in them as they’re able to withhold the asphalt, the concrete, all the different terrains.

You’re going to look and feel great with the Sana on. It’s so lightweight, thin, and breathable that it feels like a sandal yet it has more protection on your feet.

Cons

• Insufficient outsole traction.

Asics Gel 190 TR

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, ball of foot pain (Metatarsalgia), back pain, ankle pain, knee pain, Morton’s Neuroma, Bunions, high arches, flat feet, wide feet, and narrow feet.

Upper

This trainer has got some really great features. It has a leather and mesh upper with synthetic overlays that give it a great look and help secure the foot better.

There’s a lace-up closure for a more secure fit along with a nicely cushioned collar and tongue to provide comfort.

Arch Support

The Asics Gel-190 offers terrific arch support and lateral support (ankles) which makes it an outstanding option for someone looking to alleviate the pain caused by their Plantar Fasciitis and bilateral plantar fasciitis.

The Gel-190 provides all the balance and support needed when working out without feeling clunky or cumbersome.

The shoe’s level of support allows cross-training athletes to train as hard as they can as the shoe is sturdy enough for exercise and flexible enough for bending the foot where needed (aerobics, strength training, step, boot camp, Zumba, Jazzercise, rope, burpees, HITT, etc.)

Midsole

It’s got a dual-density SpEVA midsole to really give you that perfect performance, stability, cushioning, and comfort.

The midsole improves bounceback characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown. It also ensures stability and soft landings on each jump. The toe box area is wide enough and gives you ample wiggle room.

The footbed is removable and adds to the cushioning on the interior. Speaking of more cushioning, you’ve got Gel cushioning back there in the heel.

Outsole

The bottom has Asics High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) on the outsole which takes a lot of pressure off the heels and arches. The Gel 190 features the Trusstic System on the very bottom to give you the stability you need while you’re training.

If you’re looking for a cross-training shoe that’s squishy where you need it to be and supportive in all the right places, look no further.

Cons

• Stiff upper.

New Balance Women’s 711 Mesh v3

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis (with extra inserts),Morton’s Neuroma, corns, Achilles Tendonitis, bad knees, bunions, hammertoes, ball of foot pain, wide feet.

The 711 from New Balance is a nice new addition to the cross-training line. It’s super lightweight and it’s nice laterally supported with a heathered upper with TPU overlays for added support.

Arch Support

The majority of New Balance shoes are good for Plantar fasciitis, but some models need additional “support wear” to help them deliver the support needed, and the 711 is that type of shoes.

With some added inserts, the 711 provides the support and cushion to alleviate the pain related to Plantar Fasciitis.

The 711 is a great option for different cross-training activities (jazzercise, insanity workouts, jogging, Zumba, HIIT, kickboxing, TRX Bootcamp, Tabata, jumping, Body Pump, combat, step, squats, burpees, rope, etc.).

It is great for moving from various moves and positions and has plenty of room in the forefoot. It also supports the ball of the foot even though HIIT or workouts that require a lot of jumping. Other people have found this shoe to be great for running errands, mall walking, dog walking, booting around town, etc.

The inside gives you a breathable mesh lining and a comfort insert with a pillow heel top.

Outsole

The bottom provides a Cush+ midsole that provides responsive cushioning along with a durable outsole that gives you flex grooves for free movement and extreme flexibility. It also has nice torsional stability.

It’s a nice transitional shoe. This is for the everyday person certainly going from the gym to pick up the kids from school and still get that cushioning and comfort.

Cons

• Not very durable.

Ryka Women’s Vida RZX

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, knee pain, balance issues, wide feet (super fit), bunions, narrow feet, and ankles.

The Ryka is a shoe that most Jazzercise teachers swear by, but it’s also suitable for Zumba, aerobic exercises, CrossFit, HIIT and strength training workouts, dance, etc.

You’re looking at one lightweight pair of trainers and they’re meant to move with you perfectly with a breathable mesh and synthetic upper that has supportive overlays.

This shoe offers better heel cushioning and hugs your arches providing excellent support for you to train Plantar Fasciitis free. The ball of your foot is also going to be protected thanks to the shoe’s underfoot cushioning.

It has a lace-up closure with a cushioned tongue and collar for comfort and an anatomical Precise-Return sock liner so your foot will be wrapped in total breathability and cushioning.

The Vida has the RZX technology that does features Ultraflex in the forefoot and Re-zorb cushioning in the heel so you’ve got great shock absorption with energy return.

It has more room in the forefoot area and it has enough depth to accommodate your insoles.

Outsole

It’s all resting on a rubber outsole that has strategic flex grooves as well as dance and studio-ready pivot points for greater ease of movement.

Revitalize your next workout or get on that dance floor and start grooving in style and comfort with these awesome sneakers from Ryka.

Cons

• Fragile outsole.

New Balance Men’s Minimus 40v1

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, shin splints, knee issues, ball of foot pain.

People use the 40v1 for squats, deadlifts, CrossFit, HIIT, lifting (great heel support and firmness), WOD, barbell exercises, jumping rope, sideways movements, light running (a bit of cushion in the forefoot).

What’s Minimus

The New Balance 40 is a very versatile cross-training shoe. It’s very lightweight and it’s part of the Minimus collection from New Balance.

What that means as far as cushioning goes, you have the maximum cushioning of a traditional athletic shoe, then you have barefoot running, and the New Balance 40 sits right in the middle.

It’s designed to provide the comfort, durability, and traction needed for your toughest workouts that involve running, jumping and strength-based movements.

The Rapid Rebound midsole and 4 mm heel-to-toe drop provide comfort and energy return while running or jumping.

Midsole & Outsole

The midsole really keeps the weight down while giving you a ton of flexibility and mobility.

With a low profile design, a molded external heel counter, and Revlite within the heel, the New Balance 40 provides excellent ground control and stability for weight-lifting exercises.

This shoe is rounded out with an amazingly durable Vibram outsole for supreme traction and durability and support during workouts that require mobility in all directions.

Upper

The breathable mesh upper has TPU reinforcements to provide support and excellent ventilation for your feet to keep you cool and comfortable during your workouts. There’s a removable footbed that provides some really nice in-shoe comfort.

In short, the 40v1 is comfortable, absorbs impact, has a natural fit, has plenty of room, holds up pretty well, is more breathable, is supportive, and causes no soreness or painful pinch spots during the breaking period.

Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v3

Great for:

• Plantar Fasciitis, wide feet, narrow feet, bunions, Morton’s Neuroma.

You’re looking at a shoe that has been specifically designed for cross-training and high-intensity strength and conditioning workouts. It’s great for kettlebell workouts, weight lifting, low cardio classes, rowing, sprints, squats, lunges, box jumps, and short runs.

Upper

It’s breathable with ultra-lightweight mesh throughout and the toe has been redesigned and reinforced to help optimize protection against Burpee fatigue. The shoe is nicely lined on the interior with a removable 3mm foam footbed in the bottom.

The Metcradle lacing system along with a wider fit toe box and the pressure vent allows for the perfect fit during your workout and allows your toes to splay and swell during your heaviest lifts.

Midsole & Arch

The Powerflow midsole Inov8 uses helps absorb heel shock and also help absorb shock in kind of that propelling motion of the forefoot. This feature is very reactive and very comfortable and it honestly provides the shoe with a very different feeling.

The F-Lite 235 v3 is probably one of the most unique models and it really comes down to how the midsole and outsole feel. The midfoot does have a little arch, which is very interesting because most cross-training shoes are flat. So, if you have a little bit of a higher arch, you’re going to feel very supported in the 235.

Outsole

The outsole just possibly makes the Inov8 F-Lite 235 v3 one of the best cross-training shoes for dynamic movements, runs, sprints’ agility.

One thing that’s really interesting on the outsole is the introduction of the Dynamic Fascia Band feature. The Dynamic Fascia Band is basically Inov-8’s way of making the outsole and the shoe feel very natural. It just mimics the plantar fascia ligament that runs from the heel to the forefoot.

Normal rubber outsoles just get in the way when you’re cross-training, that’s why Inov-8 have decided to strip it away to create an improved Meta-Flex design.

This new design gives you multi-directional flexibility as well as a Flex Point to allow increased functionality and natural movement, especially in the forefoot. This helps you to get through obstacles and train like a pro athlete.

Overall, the sole is firm (great for heavier lifts), promotes proper form, and provides excellent stability and balance for your workouts.

Again, the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v3 is one of the best workout shoes for Plantar Fasciitis money can buy.

Lightweight & Durable

The overall construction is good and Inov-8 is very mindful of the shoe’s durability. While the F-Lite 235 v3 is very lightweight, it kind of suggests that it might not be very durable. However, Inov8 has made a lot of good steps in the right direction and ensuring the shoe is going to last.

For example, the 360 Rope-Tec on the lateral and medial sides is going to prevent fraying from rope climbs and provide durability and a fast climb up those ropes on your workouts. Inov8 has also used some reinforced layers on the top of the mesh to ensure this shoe is going to last.

Cons

• Not for 500lbs squats and lifts.

If you’ve trained in one of the shoes above or any other shoes, please share your experience with us.

Happy training 🙂