Best Shoes for F45 Workouts: Top Picks for Performance

1. Puma Velocity Nitro 3 Running Shoes

We put the Womens Velocity Nitro 3 through its paces during several F45 sessions, and they performed admirably. The cushioning felt responsive, absorbing impact during plyometrics and providing a comfortable base for weightlifting. The upper is breathable, which is crucial when you’re pushing hard and the gym gets warm.

The grip on the outsole was generally good, offering stability during lateral movements and quick changes in direction. I did notice, however, that the lacing system felt a little basic; while functional, it didn’t offer the most secure lockdown for my narrower heel, leading to slight slippage during particularly intense burpee sections.

These shoes are a solid choice for F45 participants who prioritize a balance of cushioning and agility. They handle the varied demands of the workouts well, from sprints to lunges. However, if you have very narrow feet or require an exceptionally locked-in feel, you might want to consider adding an aftermarket insole or lacing technique.

2. Nike Blazer Lolthr Fitness Shoes

The Blazer Lolthr presents a more classic aesthetic, and we found it surprisingly capable for F45. The flat, firm sole offered excellent stability during squats and deadlifts, providing a direct connection to the ground. The leather upper, while stylish, did feel a bit stiff initially, requiring a few workouts to break in properly.

During dynamic movements, like box jumps, the ankle support felt a little lower than we prefer for high-impact activities. The overall construction feels robust and durable, suggesting these could last a long time. However, the lack of significant cushioning means they might not be ideal for longer cardio-focused F45 classes.

These are best suited for the F45 athlete who leans more towards strength training components and values a stable platform over plush cushioning. If your F45 routine involves a significant amount of running or jumping, you’ll likely find these lacking in shock absorption. We’d also advise against them for individuals with sensitive ankles.

3. Generic Mens Shoes

When searching for the best shoes for F45 workouts, a versatile option like this particular pair of Mens Shoes caught our attention. We tested them across various F45 stations, from the dreaded burpees to challenging kettlebell swings. The mid-sole provided a commendable balance of energy return for quick bursts and support for heavier lifts.

The outsole offered reliable traction on both the gym floor and the turf sections often found in F45 studios. I did notice a slight rigidity in the forefoot area, which made very quick, sharp pivots feel a touch less fluid than in more specialized agility shoes. The upper, while comfortable, could benefit from a bit more structure for lateral stability.

This shoe is a strong contender for the F45 enthusiast who wants a do-it-all shoe without needing multiple pairs. It handles most aspects of the workout reasonably well. However, if you’re a serious sprinter or prioritize extreme lateral support for complex agility drills, you might find these a compromise rather than a perfect fit.

4. Generic Mens Shoes

We evaluated this pair of Mens Shoes for their suitability in an F45 environment, and they proved to be a decent performer. The cushioning system offered a comfortable ride during the cardio intervals, absorbing some of the shock from jumping exercises. The overall fit was snug, which is appreciated when moving quickly between exercises.

However, the grip on the sole wasn’t as aggressive as we’d ideally want for high-intensity F45 workouts. During a rapid lateral shuffle drill, I felt a slight tendency for the shoe to slip. The upper material, while breathable, lacked the robust support needed for some of the more demanding strength-focused movements where stability is paramount.

These shoes are best for individuals whose F45 sessions lean more towards the cardio and general fitness aspects, rather than those heavily focused on heavy lifting or complex agility. If your primary concern is comfort during longer cardio bursts, these will serve you well. Those who require exceptional grip and ankle support should look elsewhere. (See Also: Best Overall Basketball Shoes )

5. Generic Mens Shoes

In our testing for F45 suitability, these Mens Shoes presented a mixed bag. The low profile design provided a stable base, which was beneficial during exercises like lunges and squats where ground feel is important. The upper felt durable and offered a secure, if somewhat snug, fit that held the foot well during dynamic movements.

What we found lacking, however, was adequate cushioning for the high-impact nature of many F45 exercises. During repeated box jumps and burpees, the impact felt quite pronounced, leading to some fatigue in our feet and lower legs. The outsole’s tread pattern also struggled to maintain consistent grip on slicker surfaces often found in gyms.

These shoes are likely best suited for the F45 participant who prioritizes a minimalist feel and excellent ground contact for strength training. If you are sensitive to impact or your F45 routine involves extensive jumping and running, these are not the best choice. We would advise skipping these if you seek a shoe that absorbs shock effectively.

6. Reebok Men’s Outwork Shoe

We put the Men’s Outwork Shoe through its paces during several F45 sessions, and overall, it holds its own. The lateral support is commendable, providing a stable platform during those quick changes of direction inherent in F45 circuits. The cushioning felt adequate for most plyometric movements, absorbing impact without feeling overly mushy.

The grip on the outsole proved reliable on both the gym floor and during functional movements. I did notice a slight stiffness in the forefoot during the initial few wears, which took a little breaking in. This might be an issue for those who prefer an immediately pliable shoe right out of the box.

This shoe is a solid contender for the average F45 enthusiast looking for a durable option that won’t break the bank. It offers a good balance of support and responsiveness for a variety of training styles.

However, if you’re someone who prioritizes extreme flexibility or has very sensitive feet that require substantial padding, you might find the Outwork Shoe a bit restrictive. It’s built for work, and sometimes that means a bit of a firm hand.

7. Merrell Women’s Trail Running Barefoot Shoes

When considering the best shoes for F45 workouts, the Women’s Trail Running Barefoot Shoes presented an interesting proposition. Their minimalist design allows for an exceptional ground feel, which is fantastic for developing proprioception and engaging smaller stabilizing muscles during compound lifts. The flexibility is unparalleled, letting your foot move naturally through every squat and lunge.

I appreciated the lightweight nature of these shoes; they felt like an extension of my feet rather than a separate entity. The thin sole, however, did leave me wanting a bit more protection during high-impact burpee variations. While great for ground connection, the lack of substantial shock absorption was noticeable on the harder gym surfaces.

These shoes are ideal for the F45 athlete who is already accustomed to barefoot or minimalist training and wants to maintain that connection to the ground. They excel in exercises where foot articulation and stability are paramount, like deadlifts and kettlebell swings.

Conversely, individuals new to barefoot training or those who prefer significant cushioning to mitigate impact should steer clear. You might find the experience jarring and potentially lead to discomfort if your body isn’t prepared for this level of minimal support.

8. Reebok Women’s Outwork Shoe

The Women’s Outwork Shoe offers a sturdy and dependable option for F45 training. We found the midfoot support to be particularly effective, keeping the foot locked in place during dynamic movements. The tread pattern on the outsole provided good traction, preventing slips during quick lateral drills and sprints.

The overall feel is quite robust, which translates to durability. However, I did find the ankle collar to be a touch too high for my preference, occasionally rubbing against my Achilles tendon during deep squats. This is a minor annoyance but worth noting for those sensitive in that area.

This shoe is a strong choice for women who engage in regular F45 sessions and need a shoe that can handle a variety of exercises without compromising on stability. Its construction suggests it will last through many intense workouts. (See Also: Best Shoes For Basketball And Running )

If you have a history of ankle irritation or prefer a shoe with a lower, more forgiving ankle cut, you might want to explore other options. The Outwork Shoe’s structured design prioritizes support over a softer, more accommodating fit around the ankle.

9. Vibram Fivefingers Women’s Minimalist Running Cross Training Shoe

These minimalist running cross-training shoes offer an intriguing experience for F45 workouts. The zero-drop design and wide toe box encourage a natural foot strike, which can be beneficial for building foot strength. I felt a significant connection to the ground, allowing for precise execution of movements like kettlebell swings and box jumps.

The flexibility of the sole is outstanding, letting your foot splay naturally. My primary concern, however, was the lack of substantial cushioning. During high-impact burpees and jump squats, the impact felt quite direct, and I found myself consciously trying to soften my landings more than usual.

This shoe is excellent for the F45 participant who is committed to developing foot strength and enjoys a barefoot feel. It’s particularly well-suited for exercises that require a stable base and good ground feedback, such as deadlifts and lunges.

Those who rely on significant cushioning to absorb impact or are new to minimalist footwear should probably look elsewhere. The direct ground feel, while beneficial for some, can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to strain if your body isn’t conditioned for it.

10. Adidas Bodybuilding Shoes

Bodybuilding shoes are a niche product, and their utility for F45 workouts is debatable. We tested them, and the heel lift is the most prominent feature, designed to improve squat depth. This certainly helped in achieving a more upright torso during squats, which is a plus for some F45 movements.

The flat, stiff sole provides a very stable base for lifting, which is beneficial for exercises like deadlifts and presses. However, the rigidity and lack of flexibility make them cumbersome for the dynamic, multi-directional movements common in F45. I found them awkward during agility drills and short sprints.

These shoes are best suited for individuals who primarily focus on heavy lifting within their F45 routine and want to maximize their squat and deadlift performance. The elevated heel can also benefit those with limited ankle mobility.

Anyone who prioritizes agility, cardiovascular bursts, or a shoe that can transition smoothly between different types of exercises should avoid these. Their specialized design makes them ill-suited for the varied demands of a typical F45 class.