- Tag: Shoe Guides
- Tag: Training Tips
Are Running Shoes Good for the Gym?
Runners who are getting into weights may well wonder: “Do I have to buy a brand new pair of shoes just to use in the gym?” And if not, “What are the best shoes for gym and running workouts?”
The answer depends on the running shoes you already have, along with what you plan to do in the gym. If you already have a pair from Altra you’re in luck–our comfortable designs make our running shoes adaptable to gym workouts.
Are Running Shoes Good for the Gym?
If you’re just getting going in the gym, a normal pair of running shoes is probably fine. That’s different from saying that they’re perfect for the gym, because they may not be – especially if they’re super cushioned and have a high drop.
But while things are new in the gym and you’re getting used to the machines and weights, don’t worry if you’re walking in with your normal sneakers. They’re mostly what you’ll see around you anyway.
If you’re doing high-intensity workouts that include box jumps, burpees, and other exercises that require hard landings or jumping, a little cushioning underfoot typical of running shoes might even be helpful. Just be sure they grip well and haven’t been worn too smooth by miles on the asphalt.
When Running Shoes Are Not Ideal for the Gym
If you go from squat-curious to full-on gym rat, you’ll probably want to consider changing your shoes. This is because most running shoes have three characteristics that make them imperfect for weightlifting:
- They have a narrow toe box that can compress your feet.
- They’re often highly cushioned, disconnecting you from the floor
- The heel is often raised above the toes, which can disrupt balance.
When you’re lifting heavy weights, and especially if you’re squatting or deadlifting, it’s recommended for your shoes to do two things:
- Help you balance on the floor evenly, instead of tipping forward or backward or side to side.
- Feel a direct and immediate connection with the floor.
For this reason, low-cushion, grippy, and responsive shoes are the best shoes for the gym when you’re doing work with higher weights. Luckily, you can find running shoes that are also great for the gym here.
Altra: The Best Shoes For Gym and Running
Finding running shoes good for the gym starts with the right fit, or in this case, the Altra Fit. They feature a Zero-to-Low Drop construction, which means they’re flat on the ground, with little or no elevation between your toe and your heel. That has significant benefits for your running stride, but it also helps for balance when you’re pumping iron.
In addition, the roomy toe box in our Altra shoe models lets your toes spread out the way they would naturally. This again helps with balance and distributing your full weight–plus the weight you’re lifting–across your foot. That’s likely going to feel more stable and secure than a running shoe that presses your toes into a narrow space. Learn more about the benefits of a roomy toe box on our blog.
Altra Running Shoes That Are Good for the Gym
If you’re currently running with a pair of Altra shoes, they’ll probably feel right at home in the gym. But you also may want to try our gym shoes for men or our training shoes for women.
Our Escalante Family is a great selection for gym sessions and other cross-training workouts, in addition to daily road runs. They’re race-ready and fast, but zero-drop and low-cushion, which keeps you stable and flat on the ground.
No matter your racing and lifting needs, we’re confident you’ll find a pair of shoes suitable for the gym and running from our assortment.
Not sure where to start? Shop new arrivals for our latest releases. And use our trusty Shoe Finder to match your needs and preferences with the best fit for you among our models.
