5 Best Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis (Men & Woman’s Guide!)

If you’re into cross-training workouts, you’re part of a thriving group of athletes pushing themselves to progress as hard as they can, as quickly as possible. No doubt, CrossFit constantly alternates movements to push your body to its boundaries. In addition to this sport’s great benefits, this exhausting workout can place CrossFit athletes at a higher risk for injury.

The injuries endured from cross-training workouts can include bone ruptures and tendon injuries to sharp heel conditions such as Achilles tendonitis. Doing box jumps can cause Achilles tendon ruptures which primarily affects the long tendon that runs down the lower back leg.

Best Cross Training Shoes For Women, with Achilles Tendonitis…

Best Overall Women’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – Reebok Nano X
Runner-up Women’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – Nike Metcon 6
Alternative Women’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – PUMA Fuse

Best Cross Training Shoes For Men, with Achilles Tendonitis …

Best Overall Men’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – Reebok Nano X
Runner-up Men’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – Nike Metcon 6
Alternative Men’s Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis – PUMA Fuse

The CrossFit sport requires you to perform strength and conditioning workouts. With exercises ranging from heavy deadlifts and weightlifting to gymnastics and mileage running, it’s no wonder looking for the best cross-training shoes can be a challenge.

We’ve researched a variety of excellent CrossFit shoes that can take specific sorts of functional fitness while keeping in mind the support you require if you have Achilles tendonitis. Check out all of our recommendations below to help you decide which shoes you should get for your Cross-fit training.

5 Best Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis

1. Reebok Nano X

The Reebok Nano X for women (click here for Men’s Reebok Nano X) is an all-around stable shoe built similar to the Reebok Nano 9. Enhanced with a shock-absorbing EVA foam midsole, this cross-training shoe for Achilles tendonitis is ideal for high-intensity workouts such as Crossfit, cardio, lifting, climbing, and running. The outsole is durable, and the forefoot uses high-density foam to provide a reactive feeling when recoiling movements.

Women’s Reebok Nano X

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Reebok’s Flexweave knit upper makes it breathable yet durable, with combined support for multidirectional mobility. It allows adequate air circulation. Aside from that, the materials used are lightweight; you’ll barely notice you’re wearing them.

The toe cage was remodeled to prevent overlapping at the bottom of the laces. The outer construction of Nano X still contains a stretchy feel to it, but it appears layered and more reliable than earlier models. The lip of the heel is also more elevated to avoid any heel slips, especially if you have Achilles tendon pain.

Nano X is comfortable and supportive to the feet, according to most users with flat feet. The slight bulky look of this shoe has a purpose. The wider base is great for balance, crucial for those with narrow feet which easily lose balance. In contrast, the wider front is great for gripping the ground, which is required in cross-training workouts, particularly box jumps, lateral jumps, and burpees.

Overall, this versatile and functional CrossFit shoe from Reebok is great for training, especially for people with Achilles tendonitis. It’s ideal for workouts that require a lot of foot shuffling and quick burst movements. These shoes offer support and stability while being fashionable enough to wear casually.

One thing I should also note about Reebok. They offer discounts for students, military, and first responders. If you fall into these categories, then it’s definitely worth it to check out the Reebok website for current discounts and offers.

2. Nike Metcon 4

The Nike Metcon 4 for women (click here for Men’s Nike Metcon 4) is also a comfortable, excellent breathable cross-training shoe with mesh material. It provides solid stability for the feet and is great for lifting heavy weights or doing cardio. The dual-density foam under the heel has a firmer, springier heel to provide your Achilles tendon with improved shock absorption during high-intensity workouts.

Women’s Nike Metcon 4

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The sharp, sleek-looking shoe is versatile for all your training needs, with a solid base for lifting or training. It offers a great grip and flexibility. The broken sole allows your foot to flex during your training. The soft cushion lets you move around, keeping your feet feeling better. These awesome features are a game-changer for people with Achilles pain.

Metcon 4 remains stable below weight due to its low, flat, wide heel, which generates a stable base for weighted workouts. A detachable Hyperlift insert allows quick heel adjustments for optimal stability and support if you have Achilles tendon pain.

The rubber tread on the outsole and upper of the shoe provides traction on the ground and optimal grip. The midsole foam of Metcon 4 is made of super foam for optimal cushioning. The versatile cushion under the heel offers a secure feel and a softer touch on the forefoot for high-impact movements.

Nike also offers a return policy and 60 days free trial. Upon receiving your order, you can fit it in and see if it’s comfortable; if not, you can return it for free and get a refund. Their perks can be accessible through the Nike app, including getting access to previous and active orders.

Metcon 4 is a stylish cross-training shoe with a breathable framework and flexibility that works great for every movement. If you’re looking for a CrossFit or weightlifting shoe for tendonitis pain, you can never go wrong with this one. Comfortable, well ventilated, lightweight, and durable.

3. Adidas Futurenatural

Adidas Futurenatural Cross Training Shoes (Men’s Adidas Futurenatural Cross Trainer) conform to the shape of your foot for maximized performance. The width of the forefoot and heel provides arch support and lateral stability. This shoe is great for its excellent grip and fits like a sock but doesn’t feel like one. The padding around the Achilles tendon is also great, ideal for people with tendonitis.

Women’s Adidas Futurenatural

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Futurenatural fits like a glove, which avoids slipping within the shoe on declines and inclines. The Adidas Primeknit upper also provides a more secure and comfortable fit with a supportive heel all-day while working out. The moisture-wicking mesh supports the heel and ankle while training if you have Achilles Tendinitis.

This Crossfit shoe is perfect for running and walking, especially when you have a herniated disc and Morton’s neuroma. It’s sleek, lightweight, and super comfortable, no need for a break-in period. Since it has an elastane heel, it fits perfectly for better support and protection.

If you have wide, narrow feet, Adidas Futurenatural is your top choice for its upper stretchy and breathable material. It fits like a glove, has a thick supportive sole, and is perfect for all-day people on their feet.

4. ASICS GEL

The ASICS GEL Women’s Cross-Training Shoe (click for Men’s ASICS GEL Cross-Trainer) is designed for men and women searching for a simple yet supportive shoe and has excellent cushioning during active cross-training. This training shoe’s midfoot Trusstic System and DuoMax system allow stability during complex sessions. While the rearfoot GEL cushioning provides optimal bounce experience to push even harder.

Women’s ASICS Gel

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The midsole is made of full rubber coverage for added cushioning, enhanced comfort, and impressive support. The Trusstic System Technology in ASICS GEL reduces the weight of the sole while maintaining its structural integrity. The stability heel counter and extra midfoot support help eliminate pressure from the heel and Achilles tendon.

Despite the inexpensive cost of this shoe, it gives good arch support and assistance at the ankles, ideal for people with Achilles tendon pain. It’s also great for aerobics, strength training, and walking in the wet in cold weather. Though the shoe’s a bit snug in the toe box, you may have to get some thinner socks for them to be perfect.

ASICS GEL provides optimal cushioning and forefoot support that allows you to walk a marathon distance without taping. It has generous cushioning throughout the foot. The shoe’s stiffness in the midsole also helps the feet from under-pronating.

If you’re looking to boost your performance while you’re out there burning a bunch of calories, ASICS GEL Cross-Training Shoe is your best choice.

5. PUMA Fuse

The Woman’s PUMA Fuse Trainer (click here for Men’s PUMA Fuse) is one of the world’s renowned brands for sportswear and footwear, launched FUSE Training Shoe that features excellent grip and cushioning for high-impact moves for a much-relaxed gym experience. Puma FUSE is the brand’s first-ever training shoe, combined with stability and functionality.

Women’s PUMA Fuse
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Amazon & Puma & Zappos

PUMA Fuse is great for people suffering from Achilles tendinitis as it improves the pain and makes the feet feel more comfortable. Aside from being supportive and comfortable, they also help in keeping the health of your tendon. Due to the shoe’s durability, they are great for extensive and strengthening activities.

Puma Fuse ticked most of the boxes regarding features you’d expect from a cross-training shoe. The internal midsole uses PumaGrip that helps with ground shock absorption for maximum traction and durability during training movements. It has a wider toe box for improved toe strength and support. Though the toe box is quite narrow, it’s not recommended for someone with a wider foot.

Fuse offers a lot of grips to support different movement directions, perfect for cross-training and functional fitness activities. Wearing this training shoe while on a treadmill, squatting, or strength training is very comfortable and pain-free.

Stability is the most striking innovation in Fuse. With its 4mm heel-to-toe drop, it helps establish a close-to-ground feel. Enhanced with rubber wrap-ups and an extra firm external heel midsole, it promotes stability inside the cushioning. Its nicely shaped toe box allows optimal foot movement while lifting for a stable ground grip.

This may be PUMA’s first endeavor into Cross-training footwear, but honestly, this shoe is excellent. If you’re looking for comfortable and sturdy workout shoes for your Achilles tendon pain, PUMA Fuse is a great option!

How to Treat Achilles Tendonitis?

The recommended treatments on how to alleviate the inflammation and minimize stress on the Achilles tendon include:

Take a rest

Depending on the injury’s severity, doctors may advise you to take a full or partial rest. If partial rest is prescribed, athletes may be encouraged to adjust their training schedules or intensity levels of the workout.

Make changes on the surface.

Some doctors recommend athletes use smoother playing surfaces. For example, jogging on a synthetic soft track instead of cement sidewalks only puts less stress on an Achilles tendon.

Change of footwear

Athletes are encouraged to pick shoes with support and comfort for optimal performance during exercises and avoid abrupt injuries.

Ice the area

Ice baths and massages or cold compresses help reduce pain and swelling in the Achilles tendon. Patients may follow ice treatments for 10 to 20 minutes after every activity.

OTC Medicines

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can ease the pain, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and cox-2 inhibitors.

Why Do I Need To Wear The Right Cross-Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis

Like any other specialized sport like running or cycling, proper footwear is crucial for optimal performance and comfort.

“As you reach the limits, you should downshift toward specialized shoes. Cross-training requires heavy-lifting workouts with sets of running as extremes,” says Masters CrossFit athlete and Olympic lifter Karen Jonczak.

CrossFit shoes provide support, stability, and optimal grip to safely and efficiently get through your workout.

What To Consider In Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis

When looking for the best cross-training shoes for Achilles tendonitis, there are several things you need to keep in mind. Though you can swing a kettlebell in just about any shoes, great Crossfit shoes can help you perform well beyond all aspects of fitness, such as lifting and doing lateral movements. Here are a few important factors to consider:

Durability

CrossFit can be laborious on our bodies, which also brings impact to our shoes. Cross-training workouts are packed with high-energy functional movements such as box jumps and burpees, so an all-mesh upper or soft sole could quickly rip up.

Look for a shoe with a bolstered bottom and heel to assist you with abrasion or climb ropes. Your shoes should be flexible to keep up with the movements at your foot. The shoe’s upper and forefoot should be stretchable for jumping purposes. Most manufacturers add TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) to the shoe’s sidewalls, heels, and upper to enhance durability.

Firm Sole

One of the most prominent differences between CrossFit shoes and other types of shoes is the sole. Shoes with harder soles are essential for weightlifting and squatting movements. It allows stability in the strength movements. Training shoes with a rigid sole is recommended.

Cushioning

The rigid sole and heel drop are balanced with great cushioning. However, too much cushioning absorbs weight during lifts, while too little cushioning can be uncomfortable for people who require support.

Cushioning in a trainer shoe is all about preference. Most shoes, such as the Nike Metcon or the Reebok Nano line, offer a great balance.

Shoe Size

Shoes that are too narrow can be frustrating while running. On the contrary, toe boxes that are too wide also feel unsafe as they lack support when lifting weights.

Nike shoes can be narrower, while Reeboks offer more space. If you’re planning to order online, try to navigate to their respective size chart, or in case it doesn’t fit upon arrival, you can still send them back.

Price

Finally, price is an important factor when buying anything. In this case, the price should be a criterion when choosing great cross-training shoes. Shoes are an investment, so value matters the most rather than saying they’re expensive or cheap. A shoe that performs well and provides you with the benefits it claims should match with the price; if not – then they’re overpriced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are CrossFit shoes different from other shoes?

Cross-training shoes are flexible and lightweight but differ in heel height. Lifting weights require lower heel height. Your cross-training shoe may be bigger than a usual running shoe, but it offers protective features for stability and support during weight lifting.

Is it possible to run with CrossFit Shoes?

Yes! The best CrossFit shoes are intended for all kinds of activity: running, lifting, and jumping. Some have soles with good grip while running, flexible forefoot, and a shoe specifically meant for lifting weights.

How to clean CrossFit shoes?

CrossFit shoes are easily cleaned by using a damp cloth with a gentle soap or laundry detergent. Some prefer cleaning white soles with a cleaning eraser. At the same time, others use baking soda and old newspapers for the inside of the shoe to freshen the shoes and eliminate odors. Vacuum-clean the baking soda to get rid of residue before going to your next workout.

How can you tell if CrossFit shoes fit well?

Your thumb’s width should fit within the tip of your training shoes and your toes. If they’re too tight, it can cause blisters, calluses, and abrasions to your nail beds, along with discomfort. Ensure your shoes are not too wide or narrow, and make sure your feet stay in place inside the shoes while exercising.

Best Men’s & Women’s Cross-Trainers for Achilles Tendonitis, final thoughts…

The best cross-training shoe should be flexible, supportive, and long-lasting simultaneously so that you can work your best at high levels with a smaller risk of injury. They should provide excellent cushioning while retaining flexibility for high-speed movements.

For a supportive and stable training shoe without compromising fashion, go for the Reebok Nano X. If you prefer a stylish yet breathable training shoe that works well in every movement, you can never go wrong with Nike Metcon 4.

Choosing a shoe is a personal choice, and if you find it hard to decide what’s best for you, speak to a trainer or physical therapist. They help assess your physical history and current injuries and fitness levels as these may affect your selection.

5 Best Cross Training Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis (Men & Woman’s Guide!)