Finding the right women’s crosstraining shoes for runners involves balancing flexibility, support, and durability. The Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 11 stands out as the best overall choice for its versatile performance and comfort. For those prioritizing lightweight agility, the Puma Women’s Softride Sera Cross Training Shoes offers a great blend of support and responsiveness. Meanwhile, the New Balance Women’s 608 V5 provides excellent stability and cushioning for casual trainers. Readers face tradeoffs between cushioning, stability, and weight—higher cushioning can add bulk, while lighter shoes may sacrifice support. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what suits your training style best.
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Key Takeaways
- The best shoes balance support and flexibility without adding unnecessary weight.
- Top-rated models excel in durability for multi-purpose training, not just running.
- Price varies greatly, with premium options offering advanced stability and lower-end shoes prioritizing affordability.
- Many shoes share similar features, but subtle differences in cushioning and support make a significant impact.
- Choosing the right fit and support level is crucial to avoid discomfort or injury during cross training.
| Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe |  | Best Overall for Runners Who Need Reliable Support | Fabric Type: Mesh, Leather, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Puma Women’s Softride Sera Cross Training Shoes |  | Best for Style-Conscious, Eco-Friendly Fitness Enthusiasts | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) | Closure Type: Lace-Up | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brooks Women’s Revel 9 Running Shoe |  | Best for Comfort and Style in Versatile Activities | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber | Outer material: Nylon | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 Sneaker |  | Best for Stability and Support in Daily Training | Origin: Imported | Sole material: Rubber | Outer material: Faux Leather | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 10 Shoes |  | Best for Active Women Who Need Breathability and Responsiveness | Fabric type: Mesh | Origin: Made in the USA or Imported | Sole material: Rubber | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Trainer |  | Best for Dance Fitness and Low-Impact Workouts | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Mesh with faux leather overlays | Inner Material: Textile | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 11 Running Shoes |  | Best for Versatile Neutral Runners Seeking Comfort | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Polyester | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New Balance Women’s CTLYST |  | Best for Responsive, Plush Comfort and Stability | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Mesh | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged Surge 4 Running Shoe |  | Best for Lightweight, Breathable Comfort for Neutral Runners | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Polyester | Inner Material: Polyester | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer |  | Best for All-Day Casual Comfort and Support | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Suede Leather | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| womens crosstraining shoes for runner | Sole Material | Outer Material | Origin | Closure Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Rubber | — | Imported | — |
| Puma Women’s Softride Sera Cro | Rubber | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) | — | Lace-Up |
| Brooks Women’s Revel 9 Running | Rubber | Nylon | Imported | Lace-Up |
| PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 Sneaker | Rubber | Faux Leather | Imported | — |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Rubber | Leather | Made in the USA or Imported | — |
| Ryka Women’s Influence Cross T | Rubber | Mesh with faux leather overlays | — | Lace-Up |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Rubber | Polyester | Imported | Lace-Up |
| New Balance Women’s CTLYST | Rubber | Mesh | Imported | Lace-Up |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged S | Rubber | Polyester | — | — |
| New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cas | Rubber | Suede Leather | Imported | Lace-Up |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe
This iteration of the Charged Assert prioritizes a lightweight design paired with breathable mesh, making it a solid choice for runners who value ventilation during their workouts. Compared with the Charged Assert 11, this model offers a more streamlined silhouette but lacks the updated support features. Its responsive midsole delivers comfort for everyday runs, though it may fall short for overpronators who require more stability. The durable leather overlays enhance stability, but the limited color options might not appeal to style-conscious users. Overall, this shoe excels for runners seeking a dependable, breathable trainer without extra bulk, though it sacrifices some support for overpronation.
Pros:- Breathable mesh upper for ventilation
- Durable leather overlays for stability
- Responsive cushioning for comfort
Cons:- Limited color options
- May not provide enough support for overpronators
Best for: Runners looking for a lightweight, breathable shoe suitable for daily runs and moderate workouts
Not ideal for: Overpronators or those needing extra arch support, as the stability features are limited
- Fabric Type:Mesh, Leather, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Origin:Imported
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Midsole:Charged Cushioning foam
- Insole:EVA sockliner
- Offset:10mm
Our verdict“This shoe makes the most sense for runners who prioritize lightweight breathability and reliability over heavy stability features.”
Puma Women’s Softride Sera Cross Training Shoes
The Puma Softride Sera stands out with its tailored fit and eco-conscious design, making it ideal for women who want style and sustainability in their cross-training shoes. Its softfoam+ sockliner provides enhanced cushioning, comparable to the Brooks Revel 9, but with a slightly more fashion-forward aesthetic. The zoned rubber traction ensures a reliable grip, though the shoe’s water resistance is lacking, limiting outdoor versatility. Compared to the Under Armour Charged Assert 10, it offers a more personalized fit but may not match the same level of support for high-impact activities. This pick is perfect for women who prioritize comfort, eco-friendliness, and versatile wear, but it may not hold up well in wet conditions or long-term durability.
Pros:- Tailored fit for women for added comfort
- Enhanced cushioning with SoftFoam+ sockliner
- Zoned rubber traction for superior grip
- Made with at least 20% recycled materials
Cons:- Not water resistant
- Limited information on long-term durability
Best for: Women who want a stylish, sustainable cross trainer suitable for varied fitness routines and casual wear
Not ideal for: High-impact runners or those frequently training in wet conditions due to lack of water resistance
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- Closure Type:Lace-Up
- Water Resistance:Not Water Resistant
Our verdict“This shoe is best for women seeking a stylish, eco-friendly option that balances comfort and versatility for gym and casual use.”
Brooks Women’s Revel 9 Running Shoe
The Brooks Revel 9 excels in delivering a smooth, comfortable ride thanks to its DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, making it a preferred choice over the PUMA Tazon 6 for those seeking plush support. Its breathable engineered mesh upper enhances airflow, keeping feet cool during long workouts or casual wear. While it’s versatile for running, workouts, and daily errands, it might lack the arch support some runners need for prolonged use, especially compared to more stability-focused models. The laces might require frequent adjustment during intense activity, but overall, it provides a stylish, comfortable option for women who want a multi-purpose trainer that doesn’t compromise on style.
Pros:- Soft and smooth DNA LOFT v2 cushioning
- Breathable engineered mesh upper
- Versatile for multiple activities
- Stylish modern design
Cons:- May lack extensive arch support
- Laces might need adjustment during intense sessions
Best for: Women who want a comfortable, versatile trainer suitable for running, gym workouts, and daily wear
Not ideal for: Runners requiring significant arch support or stability for overpronation issues
- Origin:Imported
- Sole material:Rubber
- Outer material:Nylon
- Closure type:Lace-Up
- Predecessor:Revel 8
- APMA Seal of Acceptance:Yes
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for women who prioritize comfort and style across various activities, from running to casual outings.”
PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 Sneaker
The PUMA Tazon 6 is designed with stability in mind, featuring a supportive midfoot saddle and a TPU shank that appeals to women who need extra support for daily training. Compared to the Brooks Revel 9, it offers a firmer, more supportive fit for those with stability needs, but with a less plush feel. Its cushioned SoftFoam+ sockliner provides comfort, though the outer faux leather material might wear faster over time, especially with regular use. The extra-thick heel cushioning and EVA heel pod enhance shock absorption, making it suitable for various surfaces. This shoe is a good choice for women prioritizing support and durability, but style options and long-term wear could be limitations.
Pros:- Supportive fit with midfoot saddle
- Comfortable SoftFoam+ sockliner
- Good traction on various surfaces
- Stable, cushioned for daily activities
Cons:- Outer material may wear over time
- Design may not appeal to all styles
Best for: Women seeking a supportive trainer for daily workouts that require stability and shock absorption
Not ideal for: Runners or fitness enthusiasts who favor lightweight, flexible shoes over firm support
- Origin:Imported
- Sole material:Rubber
- Outer material:Faux Leather
- Inner material:Soft Fabric
- Heel cushioning:Extra-thick heel
- Support features:TPU shank
- Shock absorption:EVA heel pod
Our verdict“This shoe is best for women who need reliable support and stability during regular training sessions, accepting some wear and style limitations.”
Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 10 Shoes
The Charged Assert 10 continues Under Armour’s tradition of combining lightweight comfort with responsive cushioning, making it suitable for women who want a reliable trainer for high-impact activities. Its mesh upper offers excellent breathability, keeping feet cool during intense workouts, while the durable synthetic overlays add stability. Compared with the Charged Assert 9, this model is slightly lighter and more responsive, ideal for runners who prefer a fast-paced feel. However, the limited color options and the potential for insufficient support for overpronators mean it’s better suited for neutral runners or those with stable arches. This shoe fits women who prioritize responsiveness and breathability over heavy stability features.
Pros:- Lightweight and breathable mesh upper
- Responsive Charged Cushioning midsole
- Durable rubber outsole for high-impact zones
- Comfortable EVA sockliner
Cons:- Limited color options
- May lack support for overpronation
Best for: Women engaging in speed workouts, interval runs, or high-impact training needing a lightweight, breathable shoe
Not ideal for: Overpronators or those requiring extra arch support, as support features are minimal
- Fabric type:Mesh
- Origin:Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole material:Rubber
- Outer material:Leather
- Weight:8.9 oz
- Offset:10mm
Our verdict“This shoe is ideal for women who prioritize speed and responsiveness in a lightweight, breathable trainer, but it may not support overpronation needs.”
Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Trainer
This cross trainer excels for women who focus on dance fitness or low-impact routines, thanks to its breathable mesh and pivoting rubber outsole that facilitates smooth turns. Compared to more versatile trainers like the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 11, it offers specialized support for lateral movements but sacrifices support for high-impact activities. Its narrower heel and roomier toe create a supportive fit tailored for women, yet this design limits its use outside dance or low-impact exercises. The plush cushioning and durable materials make it comfortable for extended sessions, but it’s not ideal for high-impact or running purposes. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for women prioritizing dance or low-impact workouts over general cross-training.
Pros:- Designed specifically for women’s foot shape, offering a snug fit
- Breathable mesh and durable faux leather overlays enhance comfort and longevity
- Excellent cushioning supports low-impact routines and dance movements
- Rubber outsole with pivot point enables smooth turns
Cons:- Limited support for high-impact or running activities
- Not suitable for intense cross-training or heavy lifting
Best for: Women dedicated to dance fitness or low-impact workouts who need support tailored to these activities
Not ideal for: Runners or women engaging in high-impact cross-training who require more support and stability
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Mesh with faux leather overlays
- Inner Material:Textile
- Closure Type:Lace-Up
- Designed For:Dance fitness, Low-impact workouts
- Foot Fit:Narrower heel, roomier toe, softer cushioning
Our verdict“This shoe is ideal for women focused on dance or low-impact fitness rather than high-impact or general cross-training.”
Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 11 Running Shoes
This model is well-suited for neutral runners who want a lightweight, breathable shoe with balanced cushioning, comparable to the New Balance Women’s CTLYST, but with a focus on running efficiency. Its breathable mesh upper with support overlays offers comfort during longer runs or cross-training sessions, yet it may lack the arch support some women need for all-day wear or high-impact workouts. The Charged+ midsole provides responsive cushioning, making it a good choice for those seeking a mix of comfort and flexibility. However, its limited color options and the absence of specific arch support features mean it might not suit everyone’s needs. This pick works best for neutral runners prioritizing lightweight comfort over specialized support or durability.
Pros:- Breathable mesh upper with supportive overlays improves ventilation and fit
- Cushioned midsole offers responsive comfort for running and workouts
- Rubber outsole with flex grooves enhances traction and flexibility
- Lightweight at 7.7 ounces for ease of movement
Cons:- May lack sufficient arch support for some users
- Limited aesthetic options could be a drawback for style-conscious buyers
Best for: Neutral runners who want a versatile shoe for running and moderate cross-training
Not ideal for: Women with high arches or requiring extra support for intense training
- Origin:Imported
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Polyester
- Closure Type:Lace-Up
- Weight:7.7 oz
- Intended Use:Running
Our verdict“This shoe is best for neutral runners seeking a lightweight, versatile trainer for both running and cross-training activities.”
New Balance Women’s CTLYST
The New Balance Women’s CTLYST stands out for women who want a cushioned, responsive trainer that also offers odor control, making it a strong alternative to the Under Armour Charged Assert 11. Its DynaSoft midsole with bio-based content delivers plush responsiveness, which benefits women who need comfort during longer workouts or daily activities. The higher stack height provides extra cushioning, but it can feel bulkier underfoot, which might not appeal to those seeking a lightweight feel. Its outsole’s runner pod design offers traction and flexibility, yet durability details are limited, so it’s more suited for moderate use. This shoe makes the most sense for women prioritizing plush comfort and stability in cross-training or casual wear.
Pros:- Responsive DynaSoft foam provides plush, responsive comfort
- Antimicrobial treatment helps resist odors during extended wear
- Higher stack height offers extra cushioning for comfort
- Traction and flexibility from the runner pod outsole
Cons:- Lack of detailed durability information
- Potentially too bulky for fast-paced activities
Best for: Women looking for a cushioned, stable trainer suitable for both workouts and daily wear
Not ideal for: Women needing a lightweight or minimal shoe for high-speed or high-impact activities
- Origin:Imported
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Mesh
- Closure Type:Lace-Up
- Midsole Foam:DynaSoft with bio-based content
- Antimicrobial:Yes
Our verdict“This model is ideal for women seeking a highly cushioned, stable trainer for moderate cross-training and casual use.”
Under Armour Women’s Charged Surge 4 Running Shoe
The Under Armour Charged Surge 4 is a solid choice for women who want a lightweight, breathable trainer for neutral running and casual cross-training. Its mesh upper ensures ventilation, while the cushioned midsole delivers responsive support during runs or workouts. Compared to the Puma Softride Sera, it offers a cleaner design and a slightly lighter weight, but it may lack the arch support some women prefer for all-day wear. The durable rubber outsole provides reliable traction, yet its 10.05-ounce weight might feel a bit heavy for those seeking minimal footwear. This shoe is best for women prioritizing ventilation and cushioning in a neutral, versatile trainer.
Pros:- Breathable mesh upper enhances ventilation
- Cushioned midsole offers comfortable support
- Rubber outsole with durable traction
- Lightweight at just over 10 ounces
Cons:- May lack arch support for some users
- Limited color options available
Best for: Neutral runners needing a lightweight, breathable shoe for running and light cross-training
Not ideal for: Women with specific support needs or those doing high-impact training requiring extra stability
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Polyester
- Inner Material:Polyester
- Weight:10.05 oz
- Offset:8mm
- Designed For:Neutral runners
Our verdict“This shoe suits women who want breathable comfort and responsive cushioning for running and casual cross-training.”
New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer
The New Balance 608 V5 is a go-to for women who want reliable comfort for daily activities and light workouts. Its ABZORB heel cushioning and durable suede leather upper provide a sturdy, supportive feel similar to the Puma Softride Sera, but with a more classic, casual aesthetic. The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, and the outsole offers solid traction across various surfaces. However, its stiff initial feel from the durable materials and casual design might deter women seeking a more athletic or stylish cross-trainer. This shoe is best for women who prioritize comfort and support over speed or agility. It’s an excellent choice for those needing a versatile, sturdy trainer for everyday wear with light activity.
Pros:- Excellent cushioning with ABZORB heel pad for all-day comfort
- Durable suede leather upper with supportive structure
- Adjustable lace-up closure for a secure fit
- Reliable traction on various surfaces
Cons:- Initial stiffness due to sturdy materials
- Design may be too casual for formal or fashion-forward settings
Best for: Women seeking all-day comfort and support for casual wear and light workouts
Not ideal for: Active women wanting a sleek, performance-oriented cross trainer for intense workouts
- Origin:Imported
- Sole Material:Rubber
- Outer Material:Suede Leather
- Closure Type:Lace-Up
- Midsole:IMEVA with ABZORB heel pad
- Cushioned Footbed:Yes
Our verdict“This trainer is best for women prioritizing comfort and durability over performance speed or sleek style.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these women’s crosstraining shoes for runners based on several key criteria: overall performance in multi-directional movements, comfort during extended wear, build quality, and versatility for different training types. Each product was assessed for its support, cushioning, weight, and durability—factors critical for both running and cross training. To ensure relevance, I prioritized shoes that cater specifically to women’s feet, considering fit and ergonomics. The ranking reflects a balance between value, performance, and user feedback, aiming to highlight options suitable for a variety of training routines and budgets.| womens crosstraining shoes for runner | Origin |
|---|---|
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Imported |
| Puma Women’s Softride Sera Cro | — |
| Brooks Women’s Revel 9 Running | Imported |
| PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 Sneaker | Imported |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Made in the USA or Imported |
| Ryka Women’s Influence Cross T | — |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged A | Imported |
| New Balance Women’s CTLYST | Imported |
| Under Armour Women’s Charged S | — |
| New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cas | Imported |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Womens Crosstraining Shoes For Runners
Selecting women’s crosstraining shoes for runners requires understanding your specific training needs and how different features influence performance. Beyond just style or brand, focus on how the shoe’s support, cushioning, and stability align with your workout routines. Making the right choice can improve comfort, prevent injury, and extend the lifespan of your footwear. Consider these key factors to ensure your shoes support your training goals effectively.Support and Stability
Support is vital in crosstraining shoes to prevent ankle rolls and provide confidence during lateral movements. Look for shoes with a firm midsole and a sturdy heel counter—these features help stabilize your foot during multidirectional exercises. However, excessive support can sometimes compromise flexibility, so balance is key. If you have a history of ankle issues, prioritize shoes with additional stability features, but for lighter training, a more flexible option might suffice.
Cushioning and Comfort
Cushioning impacts shock absorption and overall comfort, especially when transitioning between running and strength exercises. More cushioning can reduce fatigue and joint impact, but overly soft soles might lessen stability. Consider your training volume: high-impact routines benefit from extra padding, whereas shorter sessions or agility drills may require less cushioning for better responsiveness. Always choose a size that allows some wiggle room to prevent blisters and discomfort.
Weight and Flexibility
Lightweight shoes enhance agility and reduce fatigue during quick movements, but too light may sacrifice support. Flexibility in the sole allows natural foot movement, which is crucial for multi-directional training. However, overly flexible shoes might lack stability for heavier lifts or jumping exercises. Striking the right balance depends on your primary activities—if running is your focus, prioritize lighter, flexible options; for mixed training, opt for a moderate weight with good support.
Durability and Material Quality
Durability ensures your shoes withstand the wear and tear of rigorous cross training. Look for reinforced areas around the toe and heel, and high-quality materials that resist abrasion. Cheaper shoes might wear out quickly, especially if you’re doing intense workouts regularly. Investing in durable shoes can save money long-term and prevent injuries caused by worn-out soles or compromised support.
Fit and Foot Shape
Women’s feet vary widely, so a proper fit is essential. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters and restrict movement, while loose shoes reduce control and stability. Pay attention to width options and try to find brands known for good anatomical fit. Remember, sizing can differ across brands, so always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen for the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use running shoes for cross training?
While some running shoes can handle light cross training, they often lack the lateral support and stability needed for multidirectional movements. Running shoes are designed primarily for forward motion, which means they might not provide the best grip or support during lateral cuts, jumps, or weightlifting. Using dedicated crosstraining shoes helps prevent injuries and improves performance during mixed workouts.
How often should I replace my women’s crosstraining shoes?
Most crosstraining shoes should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and training intensity. Signs that it’s time for new shoes include worn-out soles, decreased support, or discomfort during workouts. Regularly inspecting your shoes for tears or lack of cushioning can prevent injuries and ensure you maintain proper support during exercise.
Should I choose a wider or narrower fit for cross training?
The fit depends on your foot shape, but generally, a slightly wider fit offers better comfort and stability for dynamic movements. Narrow shoes might cause pinching or blisters, especially during high-impact routines. It’s best to try on multiple sizes and consider brands known for accommodating wider feet if necessary. Proper fit is key to avoiding injuries and maintaining performance.
Is cushioning more important than support for cross training shoes?
Both cushioning and support are important, but their priority depends on your workout style. Cushioning helps absorb impact, reducing joint stress during running or jumping, while support stabilizes the foot during lateral movements. Ideally, choose a shoe that offers a good balance—adequate cushioning without sacrificing stability. Overly cushioned shoes might impair control, so consider your specific needs carefully.
Can I wear the same shoes for running and strength training?
Wearing the same shoes for running and strength training can be convenient, but it’s not always ideal. Running shoes emphasize cushioning and forward motion, which might lack the lateral stability needed for strength exercises. Conversely, cross training shoes are designed for multidirectional support but may be heavier and less cushioned for running. For best results, consider dedicated shoes for each activity or a versatile pair that balances both features well.
Conclusion
For dedicated runners who do cross training, the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 11 offers a great blend of support, durability, and comfort. Beginners or casual exercisers might prefer the more affordable New Balance Women’s 608 V5 for its all-day comfort and stability. Those seeking premium features and superior support should consider options like the Puma Softride Sera or higher-end models from reputable brands. Ultimately, the best shoe depends on your specific workout routine, foot shape, and budget—choose wisely to stay comfortable and injury-free in your training.
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