best running shoes for the gym and cross training

If you want one pair that can handle treadmill runs, strength training, HIIT, and general gym workouts, you're looking for a hybrid trainer—something more stable than a running shoe but more comfortable for running than a dedicated lifting shoe.

Here are the best options:

Best Overall Hybrid
Nike Free Metcon 7
$99.97
•
Nike

Why it's great:

Excellent balance of cushioning and stability

Flexible enough for 2–5 mile runs

Stable heel for squats and lunges

Great for HIIT, circuits, and functional training

Ideal if your workouts mix running and lifting equally. It's one of the most consistently recommended hybrid shoes.
Tom's Guide
+1

Great Alternatives
Reebok Nano X5
$149.99 · DICK’S Sporting Goods

More stable for heavier lifting

Excellent lateral support

Still comfortable for short runs (1–3 miles)

Popular for CrossFit and functional fitness
Tom's Guide
+1

TYR CXT-2
$69.73 · DICK’S Sporting Goods

Wide, stable platform

Comfortable enough for rowing, sled pushes, and short runs

Great if you like a roomier toe box
#1 Athletic Shoe Review Site
+1

If You Run More Than You Lift

If your gym sessions include several miles of running and only moderate strength work, consider a lightweight running shoe instead:

Saucony Kinvara 16

HOKA Solimar 2

ASICS Cumulus 28

These are more comfortable for running while remaining stable enough for machines, dumbbells, and general strength work.
#1 Athletic Shoe Review Site
+1

Avoid for Mixed Workouts

If you're trying to do everything in one shoe, these are less ideal:

Nike Metcon 10 — fantastic for lifting, but feels stiff on longer runs.

Nike Metcon 10
$129.97 · Nike

Highly cushioned running shoes (e.g. HOKA Bondi, ASICS Nimbus) are comfortable for running but can feel unstable during heavy squats or lunges.

My recommendations by workout style
Your workouts Best shoe
50% running / 50% gym Nike Free Metcon 7
Mostly lifting + HIIT Reebok Nano X5
Heavy lifting + CrossFit TYR CXT-2
Mostly treadmill + light weights Saucony Kinvara 16

If you can tell me:

Men's or women's?

Budget (under $100, $150, or premium)

How far you typically run (treadmill or outdoors)

Whether you have wide feet or flat feet

I can narrow it down to the 2–3 best options for you.