For a versatile gym shoe, I’d start with the Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5, which balances workout support and flexibility better than the more casual New Balance 608 V5 models. The Reebok NFX Trainer 2 is another strong option if you want a gym-focused design, while the New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant models are a better fit for buyers who prioritize traction and a stable feel. The main tradeoff is choosing between workout agility, everyday comfort, and slip-resistant grip—one shoe may not excel at all three. Fit and intended use matter as much as cushioning, especially if your sessions include lateral movement or lifting. Read on for how these seven options differ and which one fits your routine.
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Key Takeaways
- The Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5 leads for general gym use: it offers a more workout-oriented balance than the comfort-focused 608 V5 styles.
- The Reebok NFX Trainer 2 is a focused alternative: it suits buyers who want a training-specific option rather than a shoe primarily framed around casual wear or slip resistance.
- The three New Balance 608 V5 entries serve different priorities: the slip-resistant versions emphasize traction, while the casual cross trainer is the more everyday-oriented choice.
- Nike Air Monarch IV and PUMA Voltaic EVO offer different compromises: the Monarch leans toward a familiar, sturdy all-around feel, while the Voltaic EVO is positioned as a cross-training option.
- Slip-resistant labeling is not a substitute for workout fit: buyers doing dynamic gym sessions should also check lateral stability, flexibility, and how securely the shoe holds the foot.
| Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Training Shoes |  | Best for Straightforward Gym Workouts | Intended use: Training and workouts | Product type: Men’s training shoes | Brand: Nike | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PUMA Men’s Voltaic EVO Cross-Training Shoes |  | Best for Wide Feet and Cushioned Comfort | Fit: Wide | Cushioning: 10CELL midsole and SoftFoam+ sockliner | Support: TPU shank | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Cross Trainer |  | Best for Supportive Everyday Wear | Upper: Suede leather | Fabric: 100% leather | Sole: Rubber | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5 |  | Best for Breathable, Movement-Focused Training | Upper: Breathable mesh with leather overlays | Midsole: Full-length Charged Cushioning | Outsole: Full rubber with side wrap | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Cross Trainer |  | Best for Cushioned Casual Training | Upper material: Suede | Sole material: Rubber | Inner material: Polyester and nylon | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Reebok NFX Trainer 2 Men’s Cross Training Shoes |  | Best for Versatile Gym Sessions | Upper: Mesh | Sole: Rubber | Midsole: EVA | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Training Shoes |  | Best for Cushioned, Structured Support | Upper: Leather | Sole: Rubber | Closure: Lace-up | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| mens cross training shoe | Origin | Closure | Upper | Midsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Trai | — | — | — | — |
| PUMA Men’s Voltaic EVO Cross-T | Imported | — | — | — |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip- | Imported | Lace-up | Suede leather | EVA foam with internal shank |
| Under Armour Charged Commit Tr | Imported | Lace-up with standard tie | Breathable mesh with leather overlays | Full-length Charged Cushioning |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casua | Imported | Lace-up | — | — |
| Reebok NFX Trainer 2 Men’s Cro | — | Lace-up | Mesh | EVA |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip- | Imported | Lace-up | Leather | EVA foam with internal shank |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Training Shoes
The Nike Air Monarch IV is a straightforward pick for general gym sessions, where a familiar training-shoe design matters more than a narrowly specialized feel. Compared with the Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5, its product details provide less information about cushioning, upper materials, or outsole construction, so I would not rank it ahead of options with clearly stated support features. Its appeal is simplicity: it is identified as a training shoe for workouts, without claims that suggest it is built around one particular activity. The tradeoff is limited detail for buyers who need to compare fit, stability, or construction before choosing. I’d treat it as a basic option, not a feature-led choice for demanding lateral drills or a specific foot-shape need.
Pros:- Designed for training and workouts
- Straightforward option for general gym use
- Does not present itself as limited to one workout type
Cons:- Available product details do not specify materials or cushioning
- Fit and support characteristics are not provided
- Harder to compare confidently with feature-documented trainers
Best for: Gym-goers seeking a basic training shoe for general workouts who do not need detailed feature information to make a choice
Not ideal for: Buyers who need documented cushioning, outsole, fit, or stability details to match shoes to intense cross-training sessions
- Intended use:Training and workouts
- Product type:Men’s training shoes
- Brand:Nike
- Specific cushioning:Not specified in the provided product data
- Upper material:Not specified in the provided product data
- Outsole material:Not specified in the provided product data
Our verdict“Choose the Air Monarch IV for a basic workout shoe, but favor the Charged Commit Trainer 5 if you want clearly documented construction and cushioning.”
PUMA Men’s Voltaic EVO Cross-Training Shoes
The PUMA Voltaic EVO is the clearest fit-oriented choice here: its stated wide fit is paired with 10CELL cushioning, a SoftFoam+ sockliner, and a TPU shank. That combination suits gym sessions mixed with everyday wear, especially for buyers who want extra underfoot padding and midfoot structure. Compared with the more traditional New Balance 608 V5, PUMA specifies cushioning and wide fit directly, while the 608 emphasizes a suede upper and ABZORB heel cushioning. The tradeoff is that a cushioned build may feel less suited to lifters seeking a firm, close-to-the-floor platform; the supplied details do not describe that kind of lifting-focused feel. Its rubber outsole and midfoot shank add practical support, but the shoe’s strongest case is comfort and fit rather than specialization.
Pros:- Wide fit is specified for roomier wear
- 10CELL cushioning and SoftFoam+ sockliner add underfoot padding
- TPU shank supports the midfoot
- Rubber outsole is designed to provide traction across varied surfaces
Cons:- Cushioned setup may not suit buyers seeking a firm lifting platform
- The supplied details do not specify an offset or dedicated lateral-support features
Best for: Men with wider feet who want cushioned trainers for mixed gym workouts and everyday wear
Not ideal for: Lifters who prefer a firm, low-cushion platform or buyers who need a narrow-fitting shoe
- Fit:Wide
- Cushioning:10CELL midsole and SoftFoam+ sockliner
- Support:TPU shank
- Sole material:Rubber
- Outer material:Leather
- Inner material:Foam
- Upper material:At least 20% recycled material
- Origin:Imported
Our verdict“Pick the Voltaic EVO if wide fit and cushioning matter more than a firm, lift-focused feel.”
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Cross Trainer
The New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Cross Trainer leans toward supportive, all-day wear rather than a lightweight, nimble training feel. Its ABZORB heel cushioning, EVA midsole, internal shank, and padded collar make it a sensible match for workouts that include walking or long periods on your feet. Compared with the PUMA Voltaic EVO, the 608 pairs cushioning with a suede leather upper, while PUMA makes a wide fit and SoftFoam+ sockliner explicit. The 608’s leather construction may need a break-in period, and its listed features do not make it the clearest choice for fast, high-movement drills. I’d favor it when stable comfort and a substantial upper take priority over a more flexible, workout-focused profile.
Pros:- ABZORB heel cushioning absorbs impact
- Internal shank adds midfoot structure
- Padded dual-density collar supports and cushions the ankle area
- Low-seam interior is designed to reduce interior irritation
Cons:- Suede leather upper may require a break-in period
- Leather construction may feel less suited to buyers prioritizing a lightweight, flexible trainer
Best for: Men who combine moderate gym sessions with walking or long hours on their feet and prefer a supportive leather upper
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a lightweight-feeling shoe for rapid footwork, or those who want to avoid breaking in leather
- Upper:Suede leather
- Fabric:100% leather
- Sole:Rubber
- Midsole:EVA foam with internal shank
- Cushioning:ABZORB heel cushioning
- Closure:Lace-up
- Interior:Phantom Liner with minimal interior seaming
- Origin:Imported
Our verdict“Choose the 608 V5 if supportive everyday comfort matters more than a light, quick feel for intensive drills.”
Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5
The Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5 makes the strongest case for active gym movement among these options. Its breathable mesh upper is reinforced with leather overlays, while full-length Charged Cushioning, flex grooves, and a rubber outsole with a side wrap point to a more movement-oriented build than the leather-heavy New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Cross Trainer. That makes Under Armour the more natural pick for sessions involving repeated changes of direction, though the listed features do not establish it as a dedicated specialist for any one lift or sport. The 6 mm offset is a useful detail for comparison, but buyers seeking a wide fit should look at the PUMA Voltaic EVO, which explicitly lists one. The tradeoff is a mixed mesh-and-overlay upper rather than the 608’s more substantial suede construction.
Pros:- Breathable mesh upper is reinforced with leather overlays
- Full-length Charged Cushioning supports comfort and impact absorption
- Flex grooves are designed to support movement
- Full rubber outsole with side wrap adds traction and durability
Cons:- Wide fit is not specified, unlike on the PUMA Voltaic EVO
- Mesh-and-overlay upper offers a different, less substantial feel than the suede New Balance 608 V5
Best for: Gym-goers who want a breathable upper, cushioning, and a rubber outsole for varied workouts and movement drills
Not ideal for: Men who need a specifically wide fit or prefer the substantial feel of a suede leather upper
- Upper:Breathable mesh with leather overlays
- Midsole:Full-length Charged Cushioning
- Outsole:Full rubber with side wrap
- Sole material:Rubber
- Outer material:Polyester
- Offset:6 mm
- Closure:Lace-up with standard tie
- Origin:Imported
Our verdict“Choose the Charged Commit Trainer 5 for breathable, movement-oriented gym use, unless you specifically need a wide fit.”
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Cross Trainer
The New Balance 608 V5 Casual Cross Trainer is a comfort-led choice for buyers who want one shoe for light workouts and casual daily wear. Its ABZORB cushioning, injection-molded EVA foam, and internal midsole shank combine padding with structure, while the suede upper and padded, low-seam interior favor a more substantial feel. Compared with the Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5, the 608 puts less emphasis on breathable mesh and flex grooves, so I’d choose Under Armour for more movement-focused sessions. The 608 is closer in character to the New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Cross Trainer, sharing the suede-and-cushioning approach; this listing specifies casual use rather than slip resistance. Its lace-up closure and suede build are tradeoffs for buyers who want quick on-and-off convenience or a lighter-feeling trainer.
Pros:- ABZORB cushioning and injection-molded EVA foam provide underfoot cushioning
- Internal midsole shank adds midfoot structure
- Padded collar and low-seam interior are designed to reduce irritation
- Suede upper offers a more substantial feel than a mesh-led trainer
Cons:- Lace-up closure requires tying
- Suede upper is less aligned with buyers seeking a breathable mesh design
- Casual emphasis makes it less compelling for movement-focused training than the Charged Commit Trainer 5
Best for: Men who want cushioned support for casual wear, walking, and light gym workouts in a suede cross trainer
Not ideal for: Buyers focused on rapid training movements, a breathable mesh upper, or a slip-resistant feature specifically stated in the product details
- Upper material:Suede
- Sole material:Rubber
- Inner material:Polyester and nylon
- Closure:Lace-up
- Midsole technology:ABZORB cushioning and injection-molded EVA foam
- Support:Internal midsole shank
- Origin:Imported
Our verdict“Pick this 608 V5 for cushioned casual wear and light workouts, not as the first choice for fast, movement-heavy training.”
Reebok NFX Trainer 2 Men’s Cross Training Shoes
The Reebok NFX Trainer 2 is the more workout-focused choice here for people who mix lifting, short runs, walking, and general gym sessions. Its breathable mesh upper and flexible, grooved rubber outsole favor movement and airflow, while the EVA midsole and TPU heel clip add cushioning and support. Compared with the New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Training Shoes, the Reebok has a lighter, more flexible construction; the New Balance instead leans toward a structured leather upper and padded support. That makes the NFX Trainer 2 a better fit for varied workouts, but less compelling for buyers who want a substantial, more traditional-feeling shoe. The removable cushioned sock liner adds fit flexibility, though the supplied details do not establish specialized support for heavy lifting or long-distance running.
Pros:- Mesh upper promotes airflow during mixed workouts
- EVA midsole and cushioned removable liner add comfort for varied activity
- TPU heel clip provides added heel support
- Flex-groove rubber outsole combines traction with flexibility
Cons:- Flexible construction may feel less firm under heavy lifting than a more structured trainer
- Mesh upper offers less coverage than the leather New Balance 608 V5
- Product details do not specify specialized cushioning or support for extended running
Best for: Gym-goers who alternate between resistance training, walking, and brief runs and prefer a breathable, flexible shoe.
Not ideal for: People seeking a firm, highly structured shoe for heavy lifting or a leather upper with more coverage; the mesh design prioritizes airflow and flexibility.
- Upper:Mesh
- Sole:Rubber
- Midsole:EVA
- Heel clip:TPU
- Sock liner:Removable INSITE LuxComfort open-cell PU foam
- Outsole features:Flex grooves for grip and flexibility
- Inner material:Plush foam
- Closure:Lace-up
Our verdict“Choose the NFX Trainer 2 for breathable flexibility across varied gym sessions, but pick a more structured trainer if heavy lifting is your main priority.”
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Training Shoes
The New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant Training Shoes suit buyers who value a padded, supportive feel more than a lightweight, quick-moving profile. ABZORB heel cushioning is designed to soften impact, while the EVA midsole and internal shank add cushioning and midfoot structure. The leather upper, padded tongue, and dual-density collar create a more substantial fit than the mesh Reebok NFX Trainer 2, which is the more flexible pick for mixed gym activity. That structure can appeal for walking and general training, but the leather may need time to break in and feels less airy than mesh. Although the product name highlights slip resistance, the supplied details do not describe a specific outsole rating or tread pattern, so buyers needing verified workplace slip-resistance should check those details before relying on it.
Pros:- ABZORB heel cushioning helps absorb impact
- Internal shank adds midfoot structure within the EVA midsole
- Dual-density collar and padded tongue provide a cushioned fit
- Minimal interior seams may help reduce irritation
Cons:- Leather upper may take time to break in
- Less breathable and flexible than the mesh Reebok NFX Trainer 2
- Provided product details do not specify a slip-resistance rating or outsole pattern
Best for: Buyers who want a cushioned, supportive lace-up trainer for walking and general gym use and prefer a leather upper over mesh.
Not ideal for: People who want a light, breathable shoe for fast-paced mixed workouts, or workers who need documented slip-resistance specifications.
- Upper:Leather
- Sole:Rubber
- Closure:Lace-up
- Midsole:EVA foam with internal shank
- Heel cushioning:ABZORB with molded PU insert
- Collar:Dual-density
- Lining:Phantom Liner with minimal interior seaming
- Origin:Imported
Our verdict“Choose this 608 V5 for a cushioned, more structured feel in walking and general training, but favor the Reebok NFX Trainer 2 for lighter, more breathable workout versatility.”
How We Picked
I compared these seven shoes through the needs that make a cross trainer useful: a stable base for strength work, enough flexibility for mixed gym sessions, secure fit for side-to-side movement, practical traction, and comfort for the buyer’s likely wear pattern. I also treated the product distinctions in the lineup as meaningful: the two New Balance 608 V5 slip-resistant listings are judged around grip-oriented use, while the casual 608 V5 is considered for everyday wear as well as light training.
The ranking favors shoes that appear best suited to varied workouts, then distinguishes options that make more sense for narrower priorities such as slip resistance or casual comfort. I did not treat a training label as proof that a shoe suits every activity; buyers should match support and construction to their own workouts and fit needs. Because the lineup does not establish a single winner for every foot or training style, the recommendations emphasize use case and tradeoffs rather than claiming universal performance.
| mens cross training shoe | Upper | Midsole | Closure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Trai | — | — | — |
| PUMA Men’s Voltaic EVO Cross-T | — | — | — |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip- | Suede leather | EVA foam with internal shank | Lace-up |
| Under Armour Charged Commit Tr | Breathable mesh with leather overlays | Full-length Charged Cushioning | Lace-up with standard tie |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casua | — | — | Lace-up |
| Reebok NFX Trainer 2 Men’s Cro | Mesh | EVA | Lace-up |
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Slip- | Leather | EVA foam with internal shank | Lace-up |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Mens Cross Training Shoes
The right cross trainer depends less on a broad label and more on what your workouts ask the shoe to do. I’d use these factors to narrow the field before choosing among workout-focused, comfort-led, and slip-resistant designs.
Match the Shoe to Your Main Workout
Cross training can mean lifting, short cardio intervals, circuit classes, or a mix of all three, and those activities place different demands on a shoe. A stable, less compressible base can feel reassuring under weights, while quick changes of direction call for a secure fit and a platform that does not feel cumbersome. If most of your training is running, a dedicated running shoe may be a better match than any cross trainer here. Buyers who split time among several gym activities should favor balanced support over a feature aimed at just one task. Avoid choosing solely by the word “trainer” on the product page; think through your most frequent movements first.
Prioritize Fit and Foot Shape
A shoe can have useful support and still be a poor choice if the toe box, midfoot, or heel does not suit your foot. Check the brand’s sizing guidance and look for a snug heel hold without pressure across the forefoot. If you wear orthotics or use thicker training socks, account for that when judging available space. A roomy casual fit may feel pleasant during daily wear but allow unwanted movement during lateral drills. When fit is uncertain, compare return terms and try shoes late in the day, when feet may be slightly larger.
Treat Slip Resistance as a Specific Need
Slip-resistant models can make sense for work or training spaces where the floor surface is a concern, but that feature does not automatically make a shoe better for every workout. Grip, stability, and flexibility are separate qualities, so decide which one matters most in your setting. Buyers who train on clean indoor gym flooring may prefer a shoe selected for movement and support rather than a work-oriented traction priority. Those who move between work and exercise should check whether the shoe’s construction feels suitable for both uses. Do not assume a slip-resistant designation replaces careful footing on wet or contaminated surfaces.
Choose Cushioning for the Session, Not the Shelf
More cushioning can feel comfortable during long periods on your feet, but a very soft platform may feel less grounded during lifting or rapid direction changes. A firmer feel can provide a steadier connection to the floor, though it may be less pleasant for extended casual wear. Think about how long you stand, how much impact your workouts include, and whether you value comfort or stability more. Buyers often make the mistake of treating softness as a universal sign of quality. Try to match the shoe’s feel to the work it will actually do.
Decide Whether You Need One Pair or Two
A cross trainer can cover gym sessions and everyday errands, but combining uses brings compromises. Daily wear can increase outsole wear, while a shoe chosen for casual comfort may not feel secure enough for demanding workouts. If you train often or have distinct work and gym needs, separate pairs can preserve the role each shoe handles best. If you want one pair, choose around your more demanding activity and accept that the other use may be less specialized. This is especially relevant when comparing casual-oriented 608 V5 options with more explicitly training-focused picks.
Read Model Names and Listings Carefully
Several entries here share the New Balance 608 V5 name, but their listing descriptions point to different intended priorities, including casual wear and slip resistance. Check the exact version and product details before ordering rather than relying on the family name alone. Small differences in the listed purpose can affect whether a model suits work floors, routine walking, or gym sessions. The same care applies when a retailer uses slightly different wording for similar products. Confirm the specific item you want, especially when traction or intended use is a deciding factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these cross trainers for running as well as gym workouts?
They may handle brief treadmill warm-ups or short intervals, but a cross trainer is not automatically a good choice for regular distance running. Running shoes are built around repeated forward impact, while gym trainers typically put more emphasis on stability and movement in multiple directions. If running makes up most of your weekly activity, choose a dedicated running shoe and use a cross trainer for lifting or circuits. For occasional short runs, fit and comfort should decide whether a particular pair feels acceptable. Stop using a shoe for running if its stiffness or weight makes your stride feel awkward.
Are the New Balance 608 V5 slip-resistant versions better for gym workouts?
Not by default: the slip-resistant designation addresses traction needs, not every aspect of training performance. A gym buyer should also care about lateral support, a secure heel, and a stable base for the exercises they perform. If you work in a setting where floor grip is a priority, the slip-resistant versions may suit your needs better than the casual 608 V5. If your main goal is dynamic training, compare how the shoe feels during side steps and lifting rather than choosing by the label alone. The exact listing matters because the 608 V5 entries in this roundup have different stated purposes.
Should I choose the Nike Air Monarch IV or a more workout-focused model?
The Nike Air Monarch IV makes more sense if you want a familiar, sturdy shoe for general wear and straightforward gym use. A training-focused alternative such as the Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5 or Reebok NFX Trainer 2 is a more natural starting point for buyers whose sessions include frequent direction changes. Your foot shape and preferred fit may outweigh that broad distinction, so check the sizing information before deciding. If the shoe will spend more time on errands than in demanding workouts, an all-around feel can be a sensible priority. For workouts built around agility, prioritize a secure hold and movement confidence over general-purpose appeal.
Can one pair handle work shifts and workouts?
It can, if both uses are moderate and the fit works for your feet, but a single pair may involve compromises. Buyers who stand or walk on work floors should put comfort and the required grip first; gym users should also check stability and side-to-side security. A slip-resistant 608 V5 may suit certain work settings, while a more explicitly training-oriented option may feel better for gym sessions. Repeatedly using one pair for both roles can also wear the outsole faster. If either activity is demanding or has specific safety requirements, separate footwear is the safer choice.
What should I do if I have wide feet or need room for orthotics?
Start with the brand’s size and width information, then check whether the shoe has enough room at the forefoot without letting the heel slip. Do not size up automatically to create width, since extra length can make the foot move during training. If you use orthotics, confirm that the insole can be removed and that the shoe has enough depth after the insert is added. Try the pair with the socks you expect to wear for workouts and test both standing and lateral movement. A comfortable fit for casual walking is not proof that the shoe will stay secure during a gym session.
Conclusion
For most buyers seeking one pair for varied gym sessions, I’d choose the Under Armour Charged Commit Trainer 5 as the best overall starting point. The New Balance 608 V5 Casual Cross Trainer is my best value-style pick for people who want a shoe for everyday wear and lighter training, while the Reebok NFX Trainer 2 is the best fit for buyers who want a more training-centered alternative. For beginners, the Nike Air Monarch IV offers a straightforward all-around direction, provided its fit suits your foot and your workouts are not highly agility-focused. For specific needs, consider either New Balance 608 V5 Slip-Resistant listing when traction is a priority, and look at the PUMA Voltaic EVO as another cross-training option to compare by fit and intended use. Choose by your main activity first, then let fit and floor conditions settle the decision.
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