You will always hear the word “Cardio” when starting any exercise program. Cardio Exercise is the basis upon which all other forms of exercise are built.
Cardio exercise comes in many forms, such as running, cycling, swimming, and more. As with any sport, you will need the right shoe type to perform Cardio routines that support your feet and prevent injury.
We highly recommend the best shoes for cardio exercise. They should support your feet, provide effective cushioning, and not weigh you down.
Table of Contents
- Cardio Exercise Benefits
- Corresponding Shoes to Type of Cardio Exercise
- Features of a Good Cardio Exercise Shoe
- Reviews: Best Shoes for Cardio Exercise
- Index Table: Top Rated Shoes for Cardio Excrecise
Cardio Exercise Benefits
Cardio Exercise is a rhythmic activity that raises your heart rate and burns calories. It can take many forms, such as running, using a treadmill or cycling equipment, aerobic or dance classes, and more.
There are quite some benefits to doing cardio exercises;
- Burns fat and calories for weight loss.
- Strengthens your heart muscles.
- Reduces the risk of heart attacks, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, and some cancer forms.
- It provides relief from depression and anxiety.
- Reduces stress and improves sleep.
- Improves your libido.
- It creates confidence and self-acceptance.
- Weight-bearing Cardio improves Bone density.
Corresponding Shoes to Type of Cardio Exercise
Because any exercise impacts your feet, you need shoes that protect against injuries and support your feet.
Here are some of the main forms of Cardio Exercise and their Shoe Type requirements
- Weight Lifting Cardio – Weight lifting can be a form of Cardio exercise but likewise requires a specialized shoe that is durable and provides the right amount of grip and support; therefore, a firm sole and flat gripping athletic shoe is key for weight lifting, so stick to a thin and flat sole.
- Cardio Classes – Cardio Classes such as Zumba, Dance, Aerobics, or Kickboxing are ideal for a Cardio workout. For this type of Cardio exercise, I recommend a general Cross Trainer for kickboxing and Aerobics and a Dance trainer for Dance or Zumba Classes that feature a Pivot Point on the outsole for more flexibility.
- Cycling and Spinning – For this form of exercise, a specific shoe is needed for indoor Spinning Classes or outdoor Cycling; make sure you have a snug and secure fitting shoe with a flexible sole and excellent grip.
- Treadmill – Whether you are running on a road, indoor court, or the treadmill, your shoe type is closely the same; a right running shoe should do in this case with the proper arch support and pronation control if you tend to overpronate.
- Running or Walking Outdoors – A good running or walking shoe that provides good shock absorbency and cushioning with a high traction durable sole is ideal for walking and running as a Cardio exercise. If you are walking on a tar or concrete surface, a general running shoe should do the trick outdoors on uneven surfaces and trails. I recommend a trail walking or running shoe.
Features of a Good Cardio Exercise Shoe
- Uppers – Breathable and comfortable uppers with mesh and leather for stability.
- Closure – A secure lace-up or Velcro fit.
- Cushioning and Support – Look for a shoe with cushioning and a shock-absorbing midsole.. Good arch support is also desirable for your specific arch type.
- Outsole – Durable rubber or synthetic outsole suitable for the type of cardio exercise.
Reviews: Best Shoes for Cardio Exercise
Here are our top favorites in the best available shoes for cardio exercises;
1
Running Shoe for Cardio Exercise Running
We start with the Asics Running shoe, which is perfect for running on the treadmill, road, or indoor court.
- The fabric’s upper construction is lightweight, durable, and breathable, featuring reflective materials for night running.
- An AHAR rubber outsole has excellent abrasion resistance and is placed as reinforcement in critical high-wear areas.
- The heel clutch system and exoskeletal heel counter improve support and create a slight heel lift.
- Flytefoam Lyte technology in the midsole ensures lightweight shock absorbency and cushioning.
- SPEVAFOAM ensures a soft platform feel and comfort in the shoe, with full-length support and cushioning.
2
Weight Lifting Cardio Shoe
If you are lifting weights as part of your Cardio Routine, you will need a specialized shoe, such as the Reebok Legacy lifter, with a flat sole and better grip.
- Synthetic leather uppers with a secure Velcro closure and Exoframe technology for additional support in the heel.
- A TPU heel piece is needed for stability and control, and a grip rubber outsole is needed for traction and durability.
- The anatomical shape is customized to fit your feet like a glove.
- The uppers are perforated with mesh inserts for enhanced breathability and ventilation.
3
Aerobics and Dance Class Cardio Shoes
The Pure Boost Go from Adidas is an all-in-one Zumba, Aerobics, and dance class workout shoe, which, as you know, are all excellent cardio workout routines.
- Lightweight and breathable textile uppers are constructed with a durable knit.
- A Fit counter molded heel for a more natural fit and better movement while protecting your Achilles tendons.
- The stretched rubber outsole offers flexible underfoot movement for a more energized ride.
- Responsive cushioning that delivers the best energy return.
4
Cardio Spinning and Cycling Shoe
I highly recommend the Tomaso Roma and Pista for their performance and comfort in spinning classes indoors or outdoor cycling.
- Designed specifically for the demands of a spinning class with a dual cleat compatibility option to accommodate all pedal types.
- The Look Delta Cleats come additionally for Pelton compatibility.
- Durable synthetic leather uppers with just enough padding for comfort without hindering performance.
- Ventilated mesh portions allow better breathability to keep your feet cool, while the precision fit design hugs your feet for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Available in a few design and color choices.
5
Cross Training Shoes
The Asics Gel Craze 4 is a cross-training shoe for all cardio exercises and general training routines. You can likewise use this cross trainer for aerobics, kickboxing, Zumba, dance classes, and on the treadmill or other cardio machinery.
- Durable and comfortable synthetic upper construction with a smooth lining.
- Features Fuze GEL midsole technology made with Fuze GEL and Foam for lightweight comfort and cushioning.
- Excellent rearfoot shock absorbency and forefoot bounce back.
- An AHAR outsole that has high abrasion rubber is also placed at all critical areas for reinforcement and durability,
- The Solyte midsole material is lighter with SPEVA to enhance cushioning and durability.
- Available in plenty of color options to choose from.
6
Mesh Cross Training Shoe
The New Balance Cross-Training Shoe is one of your best options for various cardio exercises and routines.
- The Upper is a lightweight and flexible knit from Nylon Yarns.
- There is a REVlite cushioning midsole for lightweight shock absorbency.
- The Shoe has a low 4mm heel-to-toe drop, which is also ideal for cross-training.
- The sole is a very durable Vribam rubber for excellent traction.
- There are likewise quite a few color options available to you.
7
Cross Training Shoe
These are two contemporary and high-performmance cardio work.out athletic shoes from two top brands.
- Breathable, lightweight mesh and synthetic uppers are offering a secure fit.
- A cushioned footbed with smooth interior linings.
- The thick rubber outsole offers a good grip and excellent shock absorbency.
- There are color variations to choose from in both brands.
- The Asics offers you gel cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot area.
8
Cardio Training Shoe
Looking for a more natural feel and less fuss, look no further than the New Balance 20V6 model.
- Very lightweight textile and leather uppers that offer a snug glove-like fit.
- No, sew application for less irritation.
- A lightweight Revlite midsole and a Meta support rubber outsole for flexible and cushioned shock absorbency and support.
- A Burrito-style tongue and asymmetrical heel with molded foam for a better fit.
9
Cardio Exercise Shoe
The Puma Tazon 6 is a lightweight and excellent stability shoe for all forms of cardio exercise.
- Synthetic leather uppers are available in fashionable and bold color options in two tones.
- A durable and high traction rubber outsole.
- Inside is a breathableEco Ortholite Sockliner that offers an optimum fit and comfort.
- The TPU shank ensures better stability and controlled movement.
10
Cardio Training Shoe
The Cloudfoam range from Adidas is a lightweight and ample cushioned option for Cardio Exercise that impacts the feet and joints.
- Lightweight textile uppers with a women’s and men’s specific fit.
- A Cloudfoam memory foam sock liner for cushioning and textile lining for moisture management.
- Foot hugging fit and availability in neutral cool color selections.
- The durable rubber outsole and foam midsole ensure good traction and shock absorbency.
11
Cross Training Cardio Shoe
From Reebok, we have the CrossFit Nano 9, which is a cross-training shoe that is ideal for most cardio exercise routines, including aerobic and dance classes.
- The upper is a soft and flexible Flexweave technology design.
- The Soft Rubber Midsole provides good cushioning and shock absorbency.
- A durable and high traction rubber outsole.
- The Uppers are infused with Kevlar for lightweight strength.
- It offers an anatomically shaped snug fit.
- Inside is a Tri-Blend Foam Fusion technology midsole and a cushioned insole.
- RopePro design and sandpaper textured Kevlar for rope climbing.
- A Piston technology lugged design tread on the outsole.
Index Table: Top Rated Shoes for Cardio Excrecise
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asics® - Running Shoe for Cardio Exercise Running |  |  |
| Asics | 98.6 |
| 2 | Reebok® - Weight Lifting Cardio Shoe |  |  |
| Reebok | 97 |
| 3 | Adidas® - Aerobics and Dance Class Cardio Shoes |  |  |
| Adidas | 96 |
| 4 | Tomaso® - Cardio Spinning and Cycling Shoe |  |  |
| Tomaso | 96 |
| 5 | Asics® - Cross Training Shoes |  |  |
| Asics | 98 |
| 6 | New Balance® - Mesh Cross Training Shoe |  |  |
| New Balance | 98 |
| 7 | Asics® - Cross Training Shoe |  |  |
| Asics | 96 |
| 8 | New Balance® - Cardio Training Shoe |  |  |
| New Balance | 96 |
| 9 | Puma® - Cardio Exercise Shoe |  |  |
| Puma | 98 |
| 10 | Adidas® - Cardio Training Shoe |  |  |
| Adidas | 96 |
| 11 | Reebok® - Cross Training Cardio Shoe |  |  |
| Reebok | 97 |
