When it comes to 📍calisthenics, having the best workout shoes is essential.

Many people think any old pair of sneakers will do, but this isn’t the case. Others even forego shoes altogether, thinking they’ll get a better workout without them.

However, calisthenics shoes provide many benefits that make them essential for anyone serious about their workout.

How do you choose the best shoes for calisthenics?

With so many different shoes on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are best for calisthenics.

The best calisthenics shoes are essential because they provide support to your feet while performing various routines. However, different shoes offer different levels of support, so choosing a pair that best suits your needs is crucial.

So, how do you choose the best shoes for calisthenics?🤔

When choosing the best shoes for a calisthenics workout, look for shoes that offer support, good grip, comfort, and breathability. Support helps prevent injury, and grip helps keep you from slipping while performing exercises. Comfort allows you to keep your feet from getting too sweaty, and breathability keeps your feet cool and dry during a workout. Avoid bulky shoes with heady soles, as these can interfere with your balance and stability during a workout.

To help you, we’ve put together a list of the best workout shoes for calisthenics and a few tips on choosing the best pair.

In this blog post, we will discuss the following topics that will surely help you in your journey of finding the best workout shoes for calisthenics:

• 👍 Best shoes for calisthenics: the summary
• 👍 How to choose the best shoes for calisthenics
• 👍 Benefits of using calisthenics shoes
• 👍 Our top 7 choices for the best workout shoes for calisthenics
• 👍 Frequently Asked Questions

 

✨ Best Shoes for Calisthenics: The Summary

Here’s the summary list of the best shoes for calisthenics. These are all great shoes that will support your calisthenics training and help you see results.

Product Preview
Product Name	Nike Metcon	New Balance Tr V1 Cross Trainer	Reebok Men’s Nano X1 Cross Trainer	Xero Shoes Men’s Prio	New Balance Women’s 715 V4 Cross Trainer	Nike Men’s Flex Control Tr4 Cross Trainer	Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

 

☝️ How to Choose the Best Shoes for Calisthenics

The best shoes for calisthenics will not be your traditional running sneaker. Instead, it requires a more versatile shoe that can handle a range of activities like jumping, lifting, and sprinting.

It would be best if you kept a few things in mind when selecting the best shoes for calisthenics. Read on to find out what those are.

🎯 Flexibility

Calisthenics often involves a lot of bodyweight exercises that require a full range of motion. This means your shoes must be flexible enough to allow your feet to move freely.

A good rule of thumb is to look for shoes with a sole split design. This type of sole gives your foot more flexibility and mobility.

🎯 Material

Another thing to keep in mind is the material of the shoe. A shoe made with a flexible material like mesh will be more comfortable and allow your feet to move more freely than a shoe made with a stiffer material.

🎯 Level of support

When choosing shoes for calisthenics, it is important to consider how much support they provide. The best shoes for calisthenics will provide good arch support and a stable foundation. This is important because calisthenics often involves a lot of jumping and landing. A shoe with good arch support will help absorb these activities’ impact and protect your feet from injury.

🎯 Breathability

Another thing to remember when choosing the best shoes for calisthenics is breathability. Calisthenics often involves high-intensity movements, and your feet will likely sweat a lot. So look for shoes with breathable materials that help keep your feet cool and dry. When your feet are constantly moving, they can get sweaty, and you don’t want that moisture to cause you to slip.

🎯 Good grip

The best shoes for calisthenics should also have a good grip. This is important because calisthenics often involves a lot of movement, and you don’t want your shoes slipping off. A good grip will also help to prevent injuries. The best shoes help to prevent you from slipping and falling during your workouts.

🎯 Lightweight

It is also important to ensure that the shoes you select are lightweight. Lightweight shoes are easier to move in, help you to stay agile during your workouts, and not feel weighed down by your shoes.

🎯 Comfort

Last but not least, comfort is an essential factor to consider when choosing the best shoes for calisthenics. You want to ensure that the shoes you select are comfortable enough to wear for long periods. This is important because you don’t want to constantly adjust your shoes or take them off in the middle of your workout.

Here are other tips to follow when choosing the best shoes for calisthenics:

1. Make sure the shoes are made specifically for calisthenics or CrossFit. This will ensure that they have features like good grip and flexibility that are essential for these activities.
2. Consider your foot type. Do you have high arches? Are your feet wide or narrow? Choose shoes that cater to your specific foot type for the most support and comfort.
3. Pay attention to price points. Just because a pair of shoes is expensive doesn’t mean it’s automatically the best option for you. There are plenty of affordable options out there that will meet your needs perfectly.

 

♥️ Benefits of Using Calisthenics Shoes

While many believe that barefoot is the way to go when it comes to bodyweight training, there are many benefits of using calisthenics shoes.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits:

✅ Improve your grip

One of the main benefits of using calisthenics shoes is improving your grip. This is because most shoes have a sticky sole which gives you more traction when performing exercises such as pull-ups and chin-ups.

In addition, shoes with a sticky sole can help protect your feet from blisters and calluses.

✅ Reduce impact on your joints

In addition to helping improve your form, calisthenics shoes also help reduce the wear and tear on your joints. This is because most shoes have a cushioning sole that absorbs some impact when you land.

This can help to reduce the risk of injuries, particularly in the knees and ankles.

✅ Improve your balance

Calisthenics shoes can also help you improve your balance. This is because most shoes have a wider sole, giving you a larger base of support.

This can help you to stay more stable when performing exercises such as one-legged squats and pistol squats.

✅ Increase your range of motion

Another benefit of using calisthenics shoes is that they can help increase your range of motion. This is because most shoes have flexibility, allowing your foot to move more freely.

✅ Protect your feet from injury

Calisthenics shoes also protect your feet from injury. This is because most shoes have a toe box that protects your toes from being stubbed or crushed when performing exercises such as push-ups and burpees.

✅ Prevent slipping and sliding

A good calisthenics shoe will also prevent slipping and sliding. This is because most shoes have a good grip which prevents your feet from slipping off the pedals during exercises such as handstands and headstands.

 

🔥 Our Top 7 Choices for the Best Workout Shoes for Calisthenics

👊 #1. Nike Metcon

If you’re looking for a good pair of shoes to help with your calisthenics workouts, then the Nike Metcon shoes are a great option. They’re designed to provide plenty of support, traction for speed, and durability wherever you need them.

The Nike Metcon shoes are also an excellent choice for those seeking a more versatile workout shoe. They’re designed to be able to handle a variety of different types of workouts, including running, weightlifting, and CrossFit.

These shoes also have a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of calisthenics training, and they’re available in various colors to suit your style. It even contains a hyperlift insert compatible with all previous versions of the Metcon.

Pros:

• Provides support
• Durable construction
• Variety of colors available
• Hyperlift insert compatible with all previous versions of the Metcon

Cons:

• Price higher than other shoes
• Some users find the size too small

Nike Metcon shoes are designed to provide plenty of support and traction for speed and durability wherever you need them.

👊 #2. New Balance Tr V1 Cross Trainer

The second on our list is the New Balance Tr V Cross Trainer. This shoe’s mesh and synthetic upper provide excellent breathability and lightweight comfort. The midsole with full rubber coverage delivers added cushioning, and the underfoot rubber for unmatched traction and a stable base.

In addition, it has a TPU-infused design that offers uncompromising durability, making these versatile trainers your go-to workout shoes.

Pros:

• Versatile
• Durable
• Stable base
• Feels natural and like barefoot

Cons:

• Others find the shoes too narrow
• Some see the need to size up

👊 #3. Reebok Men’s Nano X1 Cross Trainer

Reebok Men’s Nano X Cross Trainer is a versatile cross-training shoe that can be used by those who love to train hard. The shoe is designed with a Flexweave® knit upper that’s breathable yet durable, with integrated support for multidirectional movement. The Nano X also has a responsive cushioning system that provides support and stability during your workout.

Pros:

• Durable
• Excellent support
• Breathable and comfortable
• Available in many different colors

Cons:

• Some find the material surrounding the ankle to be rough and abrasive
• Others see the size to be small

👊 #4: Xero Shoes Men’s Prio

The Xero Prio men’s shoes offer a non-elevated heel and are low to the ground. It allows proper posture, balance, and agility for all-around performance. It has an ultra barefoot design, is lightweight, and has a comfortable fit. The shoes are available in different colors you can choose to fit your taste.

Pros:

• Barefoot feel
• Support proper posture and balance
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Wider toe box that allows your toes to spread and relax
• Offer 5000-mile sole guarantee

Cons:

• Others find the shoes to break easily

👊 #5: New Balance Women’s 715 V4 Cross Trainer

The New Balance Women’s 715 V4  Cross Trainer is a versatile shoe that can be used for various activities. It has an NB Ultra Soft comfort insert that provides cushioning and support and lightweight construction, making it ideal for cross-training.

Pros:

• Good cushioning and comfort
• Good for low arches and wide feet
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Some find it not wide enough
• Others find it needs more support

👊 #6: Nike Men’s Flex Control Tr4 Cross Trainer

Next on our list is the Nike Men’s Flex Control TR4 Cross training shoe. This shoe is comfortable and supportive, with a segmented rubber outrigger on the forefoot of the sole that gives you stability during side-to-side movements. In addition, the Nike flex soles move with your feet as you walk and provide comfort all day long.

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Mesh construction makes the shoes breathable
• Lightweight

Cons:

• It doesn’t support wide foot
• Others find it to have small sizing

👊 #7: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

Last but ultimately not least on our list is Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III. Like the other shoes on our list, this one is designed to be as light and comfortable as possible. The difference with this model lies in its minimalist design, which makes it perfect for those looking for a more natural feel while doing their routines.

This model is also perfect for those looking to transition into a more barefoot lifestyle since it provides the right amount of support and protection while still allowing your feet to move and breathe as they should.

It is also designed to be wide, flexible, and comfortable, with a reinforced toe box that makes it durable enough to withstand your toughest workouts.

Pros:

• Wide toe box
• Flexible and comfortable
• Durable built
• Minimalist

Cons:

• Sizing runs big

 

🧐 Frequently Asked Questions

Read our list of frequently asked questions and find the ultimate answers to your queries.

🔎 Are there any special shoes for calisthenics?

There is no need for special shoes when practicing calisthenics, as any shoe that is comfortable and provides good support will work. Athletic shoes are a good option, but it is essential to ensure the sneakers have a thick sole to protect the feet from hard surfaces. Sandals or flip-flops are not recommended, as they offer little protection and can lead to injuries.

🔎 How do I choose the correct shoe size for calisthenics?

When purchasing shoes for calisthenics, selecting a size that is comfortable and provides good support is essential. Check on the manufacturer’s website or product information for specific sizing information. It is also a good idea to try on the shoes before purchasing to ensure they are the right size and fit well.

🔎 What is the difference between calisthenics shoes and running shoes?

There is a big difference between calisthenics shoes and running shoes. Running shoes are typically heavier and have thicker soles than calisthenics shoes, which makes them less suitable for performing specific exercises. Additionally, running shoes provide cushioning and support for long-distance running, whereas calisthenics shoes offer flexibility and a more excellent range of motion.

🔎 Can I use my regular sneakers for calisthenics?

It depends; if the sneaker is comfortable and provides good support, you can probably use them. However, if the sneaker is too heavy or has a thick sole, it might make some exercises more challenging. Additionally, if the sneaker does not provide good support or is not comfortable, it could lead to injuries.

🔎 Which is better, barefoot or wearing shoes when doing calisthenics?

There is no definitive answer, as barefoot and shoe-wearing have benefits and drawbacks. For example, barefoot training can help improve balance and foot strength, while shoes can provide support and protection.

🔎 Are calisthenics shoes worth it buying?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as deciding whether to buy calisthenics shoes depends on individual preferences and needs. Some people find that wearing shoes provides more comfort and support than going barefoot, while others prefer flexibility and a natural feel.

🔎 Why do people wear shoes for workouts?

There are a few reasons why people might choose to wear shoes during their workouts:

1. Workout shoes can provide more support and stability than going barefoot, which can be helpful for those new to working out or performing exercises requiring more movement and more balance.
2. Wear shoes can also protect the feet from injuries by cushioning and absorbing shock.
3. Many people find that wearing shoes makes them feel more comfortable and motivated to work out, as they don’t have to worry about their feet hurting or slipping during exercises.

🔎 What type of shoes do you wear to workout?

Cross-training shoes are typically the best types of shoes to wear when working out, as they provide good support and cushioning. However, it is vital to ensure the shoes are comfortable and provide good support for your feet.

Athletic shoes are also a good option for working out, but it is important to ensure they have a thick sole to protect your feet from hard surfaces. Sandals or flip-flops are not recommended, as they offer little protection and can lead to injuries.

 

📌 Final Thoughts

As you can see, having the right shoes is essential for anyone looking to get serious about their calisthenics workout. Not only do they provide support and stability, but they can also help prevent injuries.

When choosing a pair of shoes, consider your individual needs and preferences. Then, make your investment count by choosing a pair of shoes that you’ll be comfortable and happy working out in. With so many different options listed here, there’s sure to be a perfect pair for you!

Are you looking for a more tailored approach to your calisthenics training?

Sign up now to The Movement Athlete Academy for a free assessment that will help you understand your needs and create a customized training plan just for you!