The 34 Best Workout Sneakers of the Year

The right sneakers literally change how you move through the world. You can pick up the pace with a carbon-plated pair or ground yourself in something more flexible and minimal. You can add flair to an office outfit (I’m a big believer in the Wrong-Shoe Theory) or tackle a day that includes walking your dog on a local trail, hitting up the grocery store, and going out on a third date. Sneakers are everyday essentials: modes of both transportation and self-expression in equal measure. And when it comes to exercise, we’d argue a pair you really love will actually encourage you to work out too. So might we suggest a few of the year’s very best?

Here, find the technical winners of SELF’s 2025 Sneaker Awards. The shoes below can take you through any workout or active day—pickleballing, training for a 5K, sweating through a Barry’s Bootcamp class, strolling out for coffee, and more. To see our Editor’s Picks—the best fashion sneakers of the year—go here, and for more from the 2025 Sneaker Awards, go here.

2025 Sneaker Awards: The Best Workout Sneakers of the Year

Shop the best sneakers for any type of workout by clicking on the links below, or keep scrolling to see them all.

• Racing and Road Running
• Trail and Hiking
• Supportive and Walking
• Gym and Court Sneakers
• How We Picked the Winners

The Best Racing and Road Running Sneakers

Best for Race Day: Saucony Endorphin Elite 2

What it is: Meet the modern moon shoe. Our testers couldn’t get over the bounce these carbon-plated Sauconys give, describing them as “snappy” and putting “a literal pep in your step.” They make race day feel just slightly more effortless—and they look good doing it too.

Who it’s for: Racers looking to shave a little time off their PR.

How we tested: On five-, six-, and eight-mile training runs for the NYC Marathon and speed workouts on the West Side Highway.

One tester said: “The shoe is extremely cushioned and comfortable—moreso than anything I’ve ever worn for racing, actually. It is the most lightweight shoe I’ve ever run in too.”

Best Cushioned Run: On Cloudboom Strike

What it is: Slightly more stable than the other supershoes we tested, the On Cloudboom Strike is great for long races. Multiple testers noted how responsive the shoes felt, and said they would also wear them for a 5 or 10K just as soon as they would their next marathon.

Who it’s for: Someone who wants the push of a carbon plate and prefers a lot of cushion for comfort, but still likes to feel in touch with the ground.

How we tested: On four-to-seven-mile lakefront trail and pavement runs, some easy and some for speedwork.

One tester said: “The most remarkable thing is I didn’t actually feel them much at all; they kind of fade into the background and let me focus on my run, while still giving me a little bit of a pace boost, especially during strides.”

Best for Short Races: Nike Vaporfly 4

What it is: Nike improved the previous iteration of the Vaporfly by trimming weight from the midsole, outsole, and upper—and our testers noticed. These are svelte, streamlined on the foot, bouncy and responsive on the road, and fast.

Who it’s for: Because they run narrow—and a bit wobbly at slower paces—they’re best for someone looking to improve their times in a shorter race, like a 5 or 10K. (Longer runs might feel better with a more stable shoe.)

How we tested: On 8.5-mile interval runs, and a 7-mile easy run.

One tester said: “I was pleasantly surprised by how well they fit me and not necessarily surprised, but pleased, at how fast they felt and how much speedier even easy pace runs were.”

Best Supertrainer: Hoka Mach X 2

What it is: Supertrainers are meant to blend the best of racing shoes and everyday running sneakers. With the right pair, you can do speedwork and race prep without, ideally, as much of a risk of rolling your ankle (and with more durability too!). It’s apt for Hoka to come out on top here: The brand excels in both recovery and racing styles, and the Mach X 2s are a perfect blend of both.

Who it’s for: Anyone training for a race—or even hoping to PR—with an injury-prevention mindset.

How we tested: For speedwork on a treadmill and on seven- and eight-mile runs (one easy, one workout) on pavement.

One tester said: “I’d recommend these light and bouncy sneakers to runners who want something a bit snappier for faster workouts. I really loved how they performed, and they fit great with no pressure points.”

Best for First Races: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4

What it is: Your first racing shoe should help you feel quick on your feet—not like you might trip and fall on your face. So anyone looking for a gateway to carbon-plated trainers should consider the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4: It offers just the right amount of speed without much of the wobble.

Who it’s for: Someone who’s new to the start line, but committed enough to spend on a pair of race-specific sneaks.

How we tested: On a 14-mile long run with half-marathon pace work, and an 8-mile interval run.

One tester said: “I would absolutely buy these again and recommend them to others. These fit just about perfectly—just the right length, with plenty of room for toes to wiggle and no heel slippage.”

Best for Everyday: Asics Novablast 5

What it is: The Asics Novablasts can basically do it all: If you’re a running hobbyist, you’ll probably like them. If you’re starting to get more serious about your pace but don’t want to purchase a proper racing shoe for any reason (like you’d prefer something more functional or you’re not ready to invest), these are versatile enough to do the job. And if you’re a beginner altogether, these will help keep your ride smooth and your knees happy.

Who it’s for: Any and every runner.

How we tested: On three-to-eight-mile road runs, at both easy and interval paces.

One tester said: “I would 100% buy these and recommend them highly; I could see them becoming a regular and very versatile part of my rotation! Good across a range of paces and comfortable over long distances. And if a racing shoe wasn’t available, I could even see racing in them.”

Best for Everyday: Puma Velocity Nitro 4

What it is: Two testers each described these as “fitting like a glove.” The Velocity Nitro 4 provides a nice amount of cushion without venturing into true maximalist territory, and is a highly dependable grab-and-go pair to add to your rotation.

Who it’s for: We’ll say it again: any and every runner!

How we tested: On treadmill and pavement runs (and even some HIIT classes too!).

One tester said: “The shoe was cushioned and comfy and fit my foot perfectly—I felt supported in every step, which had a slight bounce. Really lovely running experience!”

Best for Beginners: Nike Vomero 18

What it is: Just call them Goldilocks: Testers across a range of experience levels rated the Vomero 18s favorably thanks to their high-energy foam and responsive, super-stable ride. (While max-cushion sneakers may be on trend and tempting, some can also rock too much for someone getting used to their gait and stride. This one feels just right.)

Who it’s for: Enthusiastic beginner runners who want a high-performance yet still versatile shoe.

How we tested: On two-to-five-mile pavement runs.

One tester said: “I loved these immediately. The lacing system made it easy to get a locked-in fit. The cushion was comfortable enough to support recovery runs and long runs, but I didn’t feel that it made me unstable.”

Best for Recovery Runs: Hoka Clifton 10

What it is: These are not your grandma’s sneakers…but honestly, they could be. Hoka’s Clifton 10 won Best for Recovery Runs for a reason: They make running notably easier-feeling on cranky joints, as well as any other minor aches and pains.

Who it’s for: The everyday runner; anyone who frequently walks and runs.

How we tested: On 3-, 6-, and 13-mile road runs.

One tester said: “They’re stylish enough to pass as athleisure and could serve double-duty as an active shoe on vacation. They’re great for recovery runs where I don’t care about pace (they are a bit too heavy and clunky for faster workouts). I would recommend them to someone who really likes a super cushiony feel or has foot pain or issues, for either walking or running.”

Best Walk-to-Run: Skechers Aero Burst

What it is: Testers were pleasantly surprised at how Skechers’s sneakers measured up next to viral favorites—and running world standbys—like Hokas and New Balances. They loved them on walks and runs, thought the stacked sole looked on trend, and found the fit secure and supportive. Just note they run a bit narrow, and you may want to go a half size up.

Who it’s for: People who prioritize comfort and foot health no matter the speed they’re going—these have the American Podiatric Medical Association seal of approval.

How we tested: On long outdoor walks, one-to-five-mile hill runs, and while jumping rope.

One tester said: “The fit is amazing! I feel like they literally suction the exact perimeter of my feet, but not in a smothering way. It’s pretty incredible.”

Most Versatile: Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 22

What it is: The StealthFit 22s are a do-it-all running shoe with a surprisingly sleek, streamlined silhouette and stable ride. They can handle everything from easy to long runs—with enough pep to power through tempo workouts too.

Who it’s for: A space- (or budget!) conscious runner who varies their training, but doesn’t necessarily want the closetful of different shoes that often comes along with it.

How we tested: On runs ranging from 3 to 12 miles; workouts with sustained tempo intervals; and hilly neighborhood routes and flat, paved trails.

One tester said: “I was coming into a half-marathon training cycle after an injury, and I was really cautious about aggravating anything with different shoes—so I was thrilled I could (happily!) wear these for pretty much anything my plan threw at me, from recovery runs to tempo days to long runs. Thanks to the sock-like stretch and compression of the upper, the shoe fit really comfy and close-to-foot, with no extra bulk or anything to slide around and cause rub points.”

Best for Beginners: Nike Vomero 18

What it is: Just call them Goldilocks: Testers across a range of experience levels rated the Vomero 18s favorably thanks to their high-energy foam and responsive, super-stable ride. (While max-cushion sneakers may be on trend and tempting, some can also rock too much for someone getting used to their gait and stride. This one feels just right.)

Who it’s for: Enthusiastic beginner runners who want a high-performance yet still versatile shoe.

How we tested: On two-to-five-mile pavement runs.

One tester said: “I loved these immediately. The lacing system made it easy to get a locked-in fit. The cushion was comfortable enough to support recovery runs and long runs, but I didn’t feel that it made me unstable.”

Best Off-Road: Salomon Aero Glide 3 Grvl

What it is: Salomons have infiltrated the streetwear market, sure, but don’t forget why they blew up in the first place: their workhorse abilities in the great outdoors. These everyday, high-cushion trainers offer traction and grip that will keep you steady on any run…on-road or off.

Who it’s for: The adventurous, uninhibited outdoor runner who likes a lot of cushion and a roomy fit.

How we tested: On six-plus mile runs on gravel and paved road, and on four-mile trail runs.

One tester said: “On my first run, I thought to myself, ‘I don’t notice these shoes at all.’ And when I run, that is actually perfect in a shoe.”

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The Best Trail and Hiking Sneakers

Best for Trails: Lululemon Wildfeel Trail Running Shoe

What it is: The Wildfeel is Lululemon’s second take on a trail sneaker, and in our opinion, it’s a nice step up. With thoughtful details including a sock-like upper (to keep out dirt and debris), a durable lug sole, and a bouncy cushion, this shoe feels made for conquering uneven terrain—while looking damn good.

Who it’s for: Anyone who likes to run on dirt, rock, trails, or other tricky outdoor surfaces.

How we tested: On several reservation trail runs.

One tester said: “I run on a lot of different types of terrain where I live, and these held up through all of them. The shoe is overall super comfortable and I love that it feels light. I could wear these all the time, even when I’m not running—I wore them with a denim dress when I went to brunch and got a lot of compliments.”

Best for Trail Sprints: Salomon Pulsar

What it is: The Lululemons above are great, but if you’re the type to not just jog but sprint through the woods, you may want to consider these from Salomon. Their “superfoam” midsoles provide both cushion and spring, while the sole grip keeps things down to earth.

Who it’s for: Runners with a need for speed—and the great outdoors.

How we tested: On six-mile runs on a cleared trail with incline.

One tester said: “These sneakers felt like an extension of my body—crazy lightweight, super responsive, and just the right amount of grip. I’ve never moved so fast or felt so free on the trail. Total game changer.”

Best Multi-Terrain: Columbia Konos Swift Shoe

What it is: The Columbia Konos Swift is “shockingly light and comfortable,” according to our testers. They’re easy to pack, making them a go-to for travel, and versatile enough to run (or trek) through city streets and country trails in equal measure.

Who it’s for: The active and busy exerciser—whether you’re racing through airports, hitting the trails, or squeezing in a midday run.

How we tested: On trail walks and runs, one to five miles in distance.

One tester said: “They’re the comfiest pair I tested. They’re like walking on air and so gentle around the sides of my feet and ankle bone where I can sometimes feel discomfort or rubbing. They didn’t need any breaking in either, just instantly fit very comfortably.”

Best Hiking Boot: Teva Grandview Max Gore-Tex Hiking Boot

What it is: Teva’s Grandview Max is an excellent hiking boot that our testers say is cute enough to wear to the grocery store. It’s completely weather- and waterproof, and cushioned and comfortable with a broken-in feel—none of our testers dealt with hotspots or painful blisters, even upon first wear.

Who it’s for: Teva says these are built for “multiday” hikers. But our testers, who consider themselves more day-hiking hobbyists, think anyone who wants to invest in a stable, weatherproof boot should buy them.

How we tested: On hours-long hikes at both inclines and declines, covering muddy spots, grass, gravel, and paved trail areas.

Our testers said: “For a ‘bulky’ shoe, it fit my narrow feet very well and gave great arch support. I like the rounded toe shape a lot.”

“Oh man, these are so cute for hiking shoes! The tan-black colorway is easy to style with my hiking gear, and I also like how thick and chunky the sole is—it’s a fun, cute shape.”

Best Hiking Sneaker: Columbia Escape Thrive Titanium OutDry Mid Shoe

What it is: Sneaker on the bottom, boot on the top—sounds like a party to us. This hybrid style from Columbia offers the comfort and agility you’d get with a high-cushioned trail runner paired with the ankle protection of a heavier hiking boot. We’re sold.

Who it’s for: Someone who dislikes clunky outdoor shoes but still wants a top-of-the-line option for weathering the elements.

How we tested: On hours-long outdoor hikes on trails in New Hampshire and Colorado.

One tester said: “They are really comfortable and, most importantly, almost scarily waterproof. I wore them to walk through deep puddles during several downpours and stayed 100% dry.”

Best for Nature Walks: Flower Mountain Yamano 3

What it is: We may have discovered a goldmine in Flower Mountain—a brand that was largely off our radar until this year. You don’t need to hike as an excuse to wear the Yamano 3s, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that their technical ability is just as high-performing as the sneaker’s aesthetic. All of our testers noted that the shoe felt particularly lightweight and responsive, keeping them in tune with the ground beneath them.

Who it’s for: The casual, everyday outdoor adventurer.

How we tested: One tester wore these for multiple days on an active vacation for over 12 hours at a time, exploring parks and reserves; our other testers wore them on two- to three-mile trail hikes with mixed terrain.

One tester said: “These are firm, in a comfortable and good way. No hot spots, no bruising, and I would wear them anywhere. After walking around Central Park, I wore them out to brunch and received so many compliments.”

Best Trail-to-Street: Merrell Moab Speed 2

What it is: Gorpcore heads may want to add the Merrell Moab to cart regardless of whether they ever even hike. And honestly, we don’t blame you. This style has the technical design to help you scale a moderate trail (nice grip, with more cushion in this updated version for comfort) but also just looks cool. Testers also said the shoes felt much lighter than they would have thought.

Who it’s for: Anyone who likes a Hot Girl Walk in a beautiful setting and resonates with the term “nature-chic.”

How we tested: On dog walks through a nature preserve and on easy trail walks.

One tester said: “I recommend these simply because they’re so comfortable. Wearing them feels like an easy ride, and they mapped well onto my wide foot.”

Best Water Shoe: Nortiv 8 Quick-Dry Water Shoes

What it is: In a watershoe, you’re looking for a few things: One, the shoe is, well, waterproof; two, it’s comfortable—no cutting or rubbing; and three, it stays on. Nortiv 8’s shoe, which comes in sizes for the entire family, does all that and at a great price to boot. It provides nice coverage, traction underfoot, and has an easy-to-use bungee lace.

Who it’s for: Anyone who ventures to rocky beaches or swimming holes, or enjoys canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Honestly, a pair of good water shoes is always good to have in your closet.

How we tested: On multiple kayaking trips.

One tester said: “These fit like a glove. My foot is narrow with a bunion, and the toe box felt like a natural extension. The heel was secure too.”

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The Best Supportive and Walking Sneakers

Best for Walking: On Cloudnova X

What it is: Ons are everywhere right now, and we understand why. They’re sleek and feel nice on your feet. They look good with white crew socks and leggings. They are even, dare we say, polished? While On markets the Cloudnova X for gym workouts, our testers all agreed they were dreamy for walking, thanks to their solid cushion and street style looks.

Who it’s for: Anyone who regularly uses the phrase “I need to get my steps in.”

How we tested: To (and at) the office, mall shopping excursions, for a dance/lifting class, and for long weekend walks.

One tester said: “I have to say, I get the hype! Really nice looking, extremely comfortable. I would definitely recommend to a friend who was looking for a solid walking shoe that doesn’t look too nerdy to wear to brunch.”

Best Support: Ryka Devotion X Max Rs

What it is: Health care workers! Service folks! Retail employees! Devoted dog parents! We found your next favorite shoe. The Ryka Devotion is a high-endurance sneaker built for intense walking, with plenty of cushioning, a breathable mesh upper, and extra arch support.

Who it’s for: Anyone who’s on their feet all day or for extended periods of time.

How we tested: On long outdoor walks; throughout the day commuting, working, and running errands.

One tester said: “They’re my new go-to shoe! Highly recommend for regular, everyday errands and walking.”

Best Commuter: Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Time Off Win Lace Sneaker

What it is: Yes, these are Dr. Scholl’s, and yes, they look this cute: stylish, comfortable, and up to any task that everyday life may throw at your feet. The Time Off sneaker comes in a bevy of trendy colorways and has a chunky, gum sole, but still provides the support of something built with activity in mind. Our testers—with both narrow and wide feet—loved them, and thought the fit was comfortable and perfect.

Who it’s for: Aside from the commuter who hates to pair functional-but-ugly sneakers with a great outfit, anyone looking for a sneaker that can do double duty will get great use out of these.

How we tested: On several commuting days, including two train routes and lots of walking; testers also wore these to the office (and throughout the workday), to happy hours, and while running errands.

One tester said: “These shoes felt like I was walking on clouds and made me question all my shoe decisions up until this point. Why have I been a shoe masochist all these years? Each step felt like I was being propelled forward, gliding toward my destination.”

Best Hands-Free: Vivaia Sneaker Sliders (U-Leaf)

What it is: Hands-free sneakers, or sneakers that you slide right into without needing to bend over, tie laces, or otherwise reach your feet, are great for a range of people—whether you have mobility or joint issues or just don’t like to deal with the on-and-off process for any other reason. The market for this type of shoe has made huge strides in the last few years (no pun intended), and right now, we think Vivaia’s style is the best. They come in a number of fun colors and technical fabrics, and remain comfortable for long days on the move.

Who it’s for: Anyone who dreads lace-tying or shoehorn maneuvering, and likes to “throw on their shoes” and get out the door.

How we tested: On days out and about across New York City, schlepping between neighborhoods, working at the office, going to church, and trekking up and down subway stairs.

One tester said: “I love that you can slip them on hands-free, but they still have laces you can tie to adjust the fit. They’re also breathable—perfect if you run hot or have hot flashes.”

Best Athleisure: Aldo Clubfly

What it is: Comfortable, supportive, and light—the Clubflys take inspiration from sportswear to make a fashion sneaker that’s actually functional. Nice features include a double-lace enclosure (on trend!; you’ll notice one pair of standard laces and another with a cord lock mechanism) and foam-padded insoles.

Who it’s for: The Sporty Spice of the group; someone who’s out and about and can often be found in leggings.

How we tested: To the office and on shopping trips to a suburban mall.

One tester said: “I wouldn’t have thought to go to Aldo for a super functional sneaker that’s also cute—but that is exactly what these were! The white and gold colorway could be styled up or down depending on the outfit.”

Best Retro Look: SeaVees Acorn Trainer

What it is: SeaVees, the beloved 62-year-old California-based shoe brand, makes plenty of styles that feel lived-in and well-loved. The Acorn Trainers are our favorite: supportive, built to last, and perfect with jeans and a tee on the weekend.

Who it’s for: The active millennial (dog or baby optional).

How we tested: Throughout the workday, around the city, and on a day-long trip to the Bronx Zoo.

One tester said: “This sneaker felt especially vibrant, with its rich colorways and suede details. It was perfect for chaperoning a group of toddlers on a particularly sweaty late spring day, and I loved that I didn’t have to compromise on style to make sure I looked good while schlepping bagged lunches and pointing at giraffes.”

Best for Office: Ecco Street Court

What it is: Once they’re broken in a bit, the Ecco Street Court becomes the perfect work sneaker. It goes with pants or a dress—even a blazer!—and is mostly white with some subtle pops of color for the funkier among us.

Who it’s for: You can dress these up or down, so they’re great for anyone to have in their regular work wardrobe.

How we tested: On several commutes and office workdays…and to a Yankee game, because why not?!

One tester said: “The look alone is a major selling point, but they’re also supportive and comfortable.”

Best Dad Shoe: Saucony ProGrid Omni 9

What it is: Do these feel familiar? That’s exactly the point. Saucony designed the ProGrid Omni 9 to look (and feel) as good as the casual athletic sneakers of the ’90s and early aughts. They succeeded. According to one Reddit thread, “everybody” is wearing them in London. And according to us, everyone is wearing them at the SELF office too.

Who it’s for: The aspiring fashion girlie.

How we tested: Walking for 10,000-plus steps a day, to the office, for errands and coffee runs, and to a Soto Method class.

One tester said: “If you’re going for dad sneakers, these are what I’d recommend. They’re chunky without being bulky and ugly, and many of the colorways go with everything. As someone who has a hard time embracing everyday sporty style, this shoe makes me feel cool. Like Hailey Bieber/Emily Ratajkowski/Kendall Jenner cool.”

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The Best Gym and Court Sneakers

Best for Basketball: Nike A’One “OG Pearl”

What it is: We had the opportunity to test and review WNBA legend A’ja Wilson’s first collaboration with Nike when the sneaker launched in May. We loved it then, and we love it still, for all the same reasons: It’s a unisex basketball shoe, well-cushioned for every landing, has solid traction, and, well, it’s simply gorgeous.

Who it’s for: The recreational athlete who loves nothing more than a good game of pickup.

How we tested: Playing basketball and indoor volleyball consistently over the course of three months.

One tester said: “In an effort to find the shoes that could give me an extra edge on the court, I used to spend hours browsing men’s picks and sending links back and forth with my teammates. Now, as a retired athlete, getting to wear the A’Ones heals something in my 16-year-old self who didn’t have the option to shop for hot pink kicks.”

Best Tennis Beginner: New Balance Coco Delray

What it is: Coco Gauff’s first collection with New Balance started with two shoes, the Delray and the CG2. We like the Delray because of how versatile it is: Meant for any player on any court sport—and built to be worn off the court as well—they give anyone new to tennis or pickleball the best bang for their buck, in a fun and playful design.

Who it’s for: Anyone who’s decided it’s finally time they pick up pickleball—or feels particularly inspired ahead of the US Open.

How we tested: At tennis lessons and several pickleball matches.

One tester said: “The pastel yellow colorway is great—they were fun, but not too much. I’d recommend them to anyone looking for a quality tennis shoe in both function and looks.”

Best Tennis Pro: K-Swiss Ultrashot 4

What it is: Our more experienced tennis testers loved these K-Swiss Ultrashots. They said they were sleek and mapped well onto the foot. The cushioning was just right and a carbon fiber winglet clip offers extra bounce and precision for sharp and quick turns.

Who it’s for: The once-captain of the varsity tennis team—still gotta work on that backhand!

How we tested: Tennis matches on hard court.

One tester said: “They are up there with the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever owned, and they are awesome for playing tennis. I really love them and can’t say enough good things about them. Hands down my favorite of the tennis shoes I tested—I will keep on wearing these!”

Best Gym Sneaker: Lululemon Chargefeel 3

What it is: We’ve been keeping a close eye on Lululemon’s sneaker drops since the brand launched its inaugural pair in 2022. The third edition of the Chargefeel, their signature trainer, has “a re-engineered upper for greater flexibility and targeted support, a new midsole that is even more responsive, and redesigned outsole that grips that ground for more stability,” according to the brand. It’s built to work for running, too, but we like it best for hitting the gym.

Who it’s for: The choose-your-own-adventure-type of gym-goer.

How we tested: On short runs, during HIIT and circuit workout classes, and for strength training at the gym.

One tester said: “The shoe is cushioned but not too bouncy (good for days when I’m doing back squats or RDLs and want to feel grounded). And they’re very light, which I like. They have a neoprene-like band inside that keeps them feeling very secure on my feet, with no heel slippage.”

Best for HIIT: Nike Free Metcon 6

What it is: The Metcon 5s won Best Cross-Trainer in our 2023 Sneaker Awards, and here we are, two years later, giving props to the newest iteration of the now classic Nike style. The price is right—in fact, you can often find these, or a previous version of them, on sale—and they perform almost like ballet slippers for bootcamp. They have a beautiful, semi-minimalist shape, allowing you to feel nimble and light on your feet.

Who it’s for: Anyone whose taste in workouts is like that of the Energizer Bunny.

How we tested: In Barry’s Bootcamp classes, weight-based circuit training classes, gym strength-training workouts, and, as one tester wrote, “kid schlepping.”

One tester said: “When I attended my local gym class wearing them for the first time, I realized that nearly half the class was wearing the same shoe, giving me high hopes. They did not let me down.”

Best for Lifting: Adidas Dropset 3

What it is: A weightlifting sneaker can be almost counterintuitively flat. That way, you can push forcefully through your heels during moves like deadlifts and stay steady on your feet. The Dropset 3s don’t look naked on the foot—in fact, they have some nice heft—while still keeping you in touch with the ground.

Who it’s for: Anyone who’s doing any sort of strength training: Proper footwear can be key to avoiding injury!

How we tested: Several different kettlebell and dumbbell workouts.

One tester said: “It took me a moment to get used to these since I’ve never worn this type of sneaker but I really loved the way they held my feet so flat and supportive while lifting. It honestly made a difference in keeping me rooted and still during the workout.”

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How We Picked the Winners of the 2025 SELF Sneaker Awards

This year, we considered nearly 200 styles from 57 brands for these awards—more than ever before, and definitive proof that the women’s sneaker market (and the demand from women shoppers) is at an all-time high. Each shoe was rated on a scale from 1 to 10 and graded using a range of criteria including fit, shape, feel, and style.

We chose winners that not only performed well for their intended activity, but also suited our testers’ feet, held up under multiple wears, and, of course, looked good too. (To read more about our testing process, go here.) After months of sneaker evaluations, we selected 34 technical winners—sneakers made for exercise and movement—and 22 Editor’s Picks, inspired by streetwear and fashion trends, as winners. You can see all of our Editor’s Picks here and go back to the Sneaker Awards landing page here.

Photography by Myles Loftin.