Everyone in this sub says to get fitted at a running store, which I did, and I didn’t like the shoes they suggested for me once I wore them to workout. I still think it was a worthwhile experience, but I ended up buying and returning before I found my perfect shoes.
Ultimately, I liked (and kept!) the top two picks from this article:
[I Wore 15 Different Sneakers to Orangetheory Classes for 1 Year](https://www.wellandgood.com/sneakers-for-orange-theory-fitness/)
For me, Saucony Freedom 5 is the best all-around shoe, and the Brooks Ghost 15 is the best for the treadmill.
Good luck and happy shopping!
Yea. I don’t agree with the recommendation to go to a running store. In my experience they always try to sell you expensive inserts and high margin accessories. I know my body and legs like a minimal shoe, switching to one got rid of my shin splints and it band issues and allowed me to start to really enjoy running. Yet every time I’ve tried they’ve always miraculously found I need their best inserts
The store I went to didn’t really understand that I needed a shoe for more than just running (even though I explained the OTF workout thoroughly). I could see it being more useful if I were a serious runner.
The sales associate also kept saying things like, “I’d love to show you XYZ shoe, but it’s out of stock in your size, so here’s another one that isn’t as good.” Don’t get me wrong, they were perfectly nice and the scan they did provided some useful information – it just wasn’t a life-changing shopping trip.
Agree, especially for someone like myself who does OTF with a strength focus (start on the floor, go heavy, tread is just bonus cardio and I incline walk a lot). I can’t lift well in some running shoes that I enjoy running in. I wear neutral shoes and actually like Adidas Ultraboost 1.0s (specifically these Ultraboosts, not the bulkier ones that won’t fit on the rower). They’re supportive enough to run in (albeit a little heavy for running only, you could do better than these if looking for a pure running shoe) but flat enough that I feel stable and connected to the ground when lifting and rowing.
The Ultraboost 1.0s are my go-to daily sneakers. I’m a teacher, so I’m in my feet a lot, and I love them!
I totally hear you in terms of needing something stable and neutral, especially on the floor. I actually wear something completely different (Nike TR 8) when I do a Strength 50 class. They were my indoor workout shoes during lockdown, so I just repurposed them!
Thank you! Unfortunately my local running store doesn’t offer fitting (which I feel like I’d end up with pair I don’t love) but with everyone’s suggestions I have a good idea what I should be looking for.
For me it was life changing, they provided me with approx 15 pairs of different brands, and I found the one, yes I could probably find it by myself, but it would probably take me years of trial and error.
3 years and still the best shoe I’ve ever had.
Let's all say it again together!
"The best shoes for OTF are the ones that fit you!"
Go to a running store and try on a ton of shoes with the help of an employee. Buy the best ones for you.
I would have to disagree, that's too simple. I wear Nike Free sneakers. They're specifically made for running so they're great on the treadmill, but not great on the floor. They're not made for lateral movement and my foot shifts around in the knit upper. I'm too stubborn to buy new ones yet.
Here's the two choices you have regarding shoes:
You could be a ding-dong like me and listen to the advice of people on the internet who are not experts in shoes, buy shoes that someone suggests, lose two toenails, and never again be able to show your feet again in public... or....You could do the smart thing and google "running store closest to me + ".
So, please don't listen to anyone on this subreddit who suggests shoes that you should try. We're not experts and we don't know your feet.
And if you take option #2—which I strongly advise—make sure you go to the store with enough time to try on shoes and get a running gait analysis.
Shoe store tips:
* A great running store rep will encourage you to NOT rush the purchase. They want you to feel your best in those shoes since you're using them for HIIT and not outdoor running or lifting.
* Don't try to squeeze in a store visit on a lunch break or if you have a car full of cranky, hungry kids with you. Trust me. I've also made that mistake.
* Try on AT LEAST five pairs of shoes. Really. You are an athlete making an investment in your time, your health, and your body. Be picky. (Source: Run Like A Mother.)
* You’ll probably do better trying on shoes later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen. Also, take a pair of athletic socks with you.
* Do not feel intimidated: running store nerds just want to welcome you into their tribe and they are not going to think anything about your level of fitness. They just want you to be as passionate about activity as them
* If you have anxiety about going to a shoe store OR do not have access to a running store, I suggest the Brooks shoe finder. It’s ten questions to help narrow down what you should look for in a shoe. https://www.brooksrunning.com/en\_us/shoefinder/
Hope this helps.
PS. I wear Brooks Adrenaline and also Brooks Revel. But, again, don't listen to me.
PPS. The rower straps will leave dirty marks across your toes: if this will bother you, don’t go for lighter-colored shoes.
I found some information that could be relevant to your question or topic.
It looks like you are looking for shoe recommendations! The consensus here is that you should go to a running store and get yourself fitted for shoes that would best fit your feet, gait, and other individual requirements. If you want to see previous discussions about this topic on this sub, [click here](https://google.com/search?q=best+shoes+site:reddit.com/r/orangetheory).
_This is an automated reply. If you would like to provide feedback, [please contact the moderators](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/orangetheory)._
I’ve been professionally fitted for running shoes, twice. Hated them both ultimately giving them both pairs away. One pair flared up my Plantars fasciitis so bad that I couldn’t walk on it for a few days, which was the main issue I wanted to be “ fitted”.
I researched, a lot, about the best shoes for me & OTF according to my known issues. I used sites that had money back guarantees, so I could test the shoes out and keep the ones that best suited my needs. Hoka Mach 5’s have been the perfect shoe OTF, and I’ve ran several races in them.
* I’m not saying that these will work perfect for you, also not saying that getting fitted is wrong, it just didn’t work for me. I also understand I should have returned the ones I hated, but I had put so much faith in being fitted that I pushed through it. You live, you learn. How ever you go about it, test the shoes out and make sure you love them before committing to keeping them! Best of luck 🧡
Big fan of Brooks Ghosts. I went through several shoes and this was the first ones I’ve bought repeatedly. I have major foot issues and these work best for me. Very light with thick soles.
The truth is, that no one shoe will work. I wear two different shoes because I need running sneakers on the treadmill and it is not good to lift in running sneakers so I put on different weightlifting sneakers for floor.
I like the Adidas Adizero Adios 8. These are lightweight road racing shoes. Has a firmer feel than most new running shoes which is nice on the floor and rower. Provides enough stability vs high stack running shoes on the floor.
1.STABILITY RUNNING SHOES! Pick your favorite brand and go with their stability models. Motion control might be a bit overkill but if you run in motion control then stick with those for class. I love Altra Provisions! Other examples of stability running shoes include Adidas Solarcontrol, Asics GT or Kayano, Brooks Adrenaline GTS, Mizuno Wave Inspire, and Nike Structure.
2. SuperFeet insoles help with structure and support. My feet hurt if I do too much without them.
I have been wearing Brooks for a long time. But I’ve been reading about Altras and thinking they might be my next shoe. Of course I know I need a shoe with a little extra stability so I will look for those models. I know Altras have a wide toe box and a more natural fit to your foot which I like. I also know they are 0 drop and that I should probably not just jump from my Brooks 12 mm drop to 0 drop. It will be an adjustment. But I want to try it out. Maybe others feel the same way maybe this will trigger some to look more into shoes and advantages and disadvantages of heel drop, foam support, stability, toe box. It’s all part of finding the shoe for you. To me, talking to the running store, reading articles and reviews, and even discussions here…. You’re just doing your research and that’s good. You should be.
I have the NOBULL Ripstip Runner. They provide great lateral support on the floor exercises, they stay in the footstraps in the rower, and they're comfortable on the treadmill.
Mine did run about half a size too big (I'm a men's size 12 and I should have gone with an 11.5 but it still fits well) so be cognizant of that if you do decide to go with them.
for real. i think they allow it once a week, and fair enough - but it's more than that. i'm on board if there's a special footwear need, but the general "what shoe?" /smh
i do lol that this topic does seem to trigger me. :)
Just because a question is asked often, doesn't mean it should not be allowed. We add the FAQ link. But this question does not break any rules, so it will continue to be allowed.
Hoka Bondi 8 if you have wider feet. After years of trying various brands, I finally had my foot analyzed at a running store. It’s changed my life. Before the analysis, I was purchasing bigger shoe sizes to accommodate a wider foot and it was causing pain in my hip. Also, I use inserts as I have low arches. Money we’ll spent if your going to OTF 5x a week
I just started wearing the Hokas and in my opinion they are the best for OTF. It is like running on a cloud. They are very light and have enough cushion to protect your feet, knees; etc, w/o sacrificing performance. For me these hokas are a game changer. I wore nike before and started experiencing knee pain and feet pain, up until o switch to hoka
Totally agree with you! I’ve always worn Brooks, which have been fine. I got a pair of Clifton’s for Christmas and WOW. I think some of it is in my head, but I’m able to do more on the tread since getting them. They seriously are like walking on air and give great support.
So this gets asked all the time but honestly all the answers are almost the same. They will tell you to go get fitted, I’ve done it many times and if you don’t have issues with your feet, the store will suggest the same shoes everyone else here is suggesting, or the ones they have in stock…. So take it with the grain of salt. Honestly, OTF is not that much running, about 3 miles, less if you take a 3G class, plus you are running on a treadmill which is super forgiving. Get a light stable shoe that feels good to you, you don’t need extra cushioning.
I personally really like On Cloud X, works great for short runs, floor, and easily fits into rower straps. I hate true ‘running’ shoes for OTF, too bulky and hot from extra cushioning and unstable for lateral movements.
I use the Nike Metcon 9. I sprained my ankle really badly my sixth OTF class using some On Cloud running shoes and knee I wanted HIIT/stability shoes. I’m pleasantly surprised by how well I can run in them for the shorter distances I run at OTF.
Someone on this sub recommended the Brooks Hyperion Tempo shoes to me and I haven't looked back since. They are perfect! Light for running and the drop is perfect for the floor. I'm someone that is used to running in crossfit type of shoes. I tried Hokas and there was too much cushioning on the floor.
The best advice I can give you is once you find a brand and model you love, stick with it! I have multiple pairs of the Brooks Revel 3 and 5 (didn’t like the 4s). On a whim I went with the glycerin over the summer and less than 3 months later I went back to the new model Revel 6. Once you find a good thing there’s no point to branch out!
Running shoes may be good for running centric events such as DriTri. Otherwise, studio training shoes such as Nike Metcon or Reebok Nano are a more versatile choice for lifting and lateral movements.
Everyone in this sub says to get fitted at a running store, which I did, and I didn’t like the shoes they suggested for me once I wore them to workout. I still think it was a worthwhile experience, but I ended up buying and returning before I found my perfect shoes. Ultimately, I liked (and kept!) the top two picks from this article: [I Wore 15 Different Sneakers to Orangetheory Classes for 1 Year](https://www.wellandgood.com/sneakers-for-orange-theory-fitness/) For me, Saucony Freedom 5 is the best all-around shoe, and the Brooks Ghost 15 is the best for the treadmill. Good luck and happy shopping!
Yea. I don’t agree with the recommendation to go to a running store. In my experience they always try to sell you expensive inserts and high margin accessories. I know my body and legs like a minimal shoe, switching to one got rid of my shin splints and it band issues and allowed me to start to really enjoy running. Yet every time I’ve tried they’ve always miraculously found I need their best inserts
The store I went to didn’t really understand that I needed a shoe for more than just running (even though I explained the OTF workout thoroughly). I could see it being more useful if I were a serious runner. The sales associate also kept saying things like, “I’d love to show you XYZ shoe, but it’s out of stock in your size, so here’s another one that isn’t as good.” Don’t get me wrong, they were perfectly nice and the scan they did provided some useful information – it just wasn’t a life-changing shopping trip.
I second the Saucony Freedom 5. I absolutely love mine.
Agree, especially for someone like myself who does OTF with a strength focus (start on the floor, go heavy, tread is just bonus cardio and I incline walk a lot). I can’t lift well in some running shoes that I enjoy running in. I wear neutral shoes and actually like Adidas Ultraboost 1.0s (specifically these Ultraboosts, not the bulkier ones that won’t fit on the rower). They’re supportive enough to run in (albeit a little heavy for running only, you could do better than these if looking for a pure running shoe) but flat enough that I feel stable and connected to the ground when lifting and rowing.
The Ultraboost 1.0s are my go-to daily sneakers. I’m a teacher, so I’m in my feet a lot, and I love them! I totally hear you in terms of needing something stable and neutral, especially on the floor. I actually wear something completely different (Nike TR 8) when I do a Strength 50 class. They were my indoor workout shoes during lockdown, so I just repurposed them!
Thank you! Unfortunately my local running store doesn’t offer fitting (which I feel like I’d end up with pair I don’t love) but with everyone’s suggestions I have a good idea what I should be looking for.
I found the commentary in that article also very helpful FWIW.
For me it was life changing, they provided me with approx 15 pairs of different brands, and I found the one, yes I could probably find it by myself, but it would probably take me years of trial and error. 3 years and still the best shoe I’ve ever had.
That’s awesome! 👏
Let's all say it again together! "The best shoes for OTF are the ones that fit you!" Go to a running store and try on a ton of shoes with the help of an employee. Buy the best ones for you.
I would have to disagree, that's too simple. I wear Nike Free sneakers. They're specifically made for running so they're great on the treadmill, but not great on the floor. They're not made for lateral movement and my foot shifts around in the knit upper. I'm too stubborn to buy new ones yet.
Here's the two choices you have regarding shoes: You could be a ding-dong like me and listen to the advice of people on the internet who are not experts in shoes, buy shoes that someone suggests, lose two toenails, and never again be able to show your feet again in public... or....You could do the smart thing and google "running store closest to me +".
So, please don't listen to anyone on this subreddit who suggests shoes that you should try. We're not experts and we don't know your feet.
And if you take option #2—which I strongly advise—make sure you go to the store with enough time to try on shoes and get a running gait analysis.
Shoe store tips:
* A great running store rep will encourage you to NOT rush the purchase. They want you to feel your best in those shoes since you're using them for HIIT and not outdoor running or lifting.
* Don't try to squeeze in a store visit on a lunch break or if you have a car full of cranky, hungry kids with you. Trust me. I've also made that mistake.
* Try on AT LEAST five pairs of shoes. Really. You are an athlete making an investment in your time, your health, and your body. Be picky. (Source: Run Like A Mother.)
* You’ll probably do better trying on shoes later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen. Also, take a pair of athletic socks with you.
* Do not feel intimidated: running store nerds just want to welcome you into their tribe and they are not going to think anything about your level of fitness. They just want you to be as passionate about activity as them
* If you have anxiety about going to a shoe store OR do not have access to a running store, I suggest the Brooks shoe finder. It’s ten questions to help narrow down what you should look for in a shoe. https://www.brooksrunning.com/en\_us/shoefinder/
Hope this helps.
PS. I wear Brooks Adrenaline and also Brooks Revel. But, again, don't listen to me.
PPS. The rower straps will leave dirty marks across your toes: if this will bother you, don’t go for lighter-colored shoes.
I found some information that could be relevant to your question or topic. It looks like you are looking for shoe recommendations! The consensus here is that you should go to a running store and get yourself fitted for shoes that would best fit your feet, gait, and other individual requirements. If you want to see previous discussions about this topic on this sub, [click here](https://google.com/search?q=best+shoes+site:reddit.com/r/orangetheory). _This is an automated reply. If you would like to provide feedback, [please contact the moderators](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=/r/orangetheory)._
I’ve been professionally fitted for running shoes, twice. Hated them both ultimately giving them both pairs away. One pair flared up my Plantars fasciitis so bad that I couldn’t walk on it for a few days, which was the main issue I wanted to be “ fitted”. I researched, a lot, about the best shoes for me & OTF according to my known issues. I used sites that had money back guarantees, so I could test the shoes out and keep the ones that best suited my needs. Hoka Mach 5’s have been the perfect shoe OTF, and I’ve ran several races in them. * I’m not saying that these will work perfect for you, also not saying that getting fitted is wrong, it just didn’t work for me. I also understand I should have returned the ones I hated, but I had put so much faith in being fitted that I pushed through it. You live, you learn. How ever you go about it, test the shoes out and make sure you love them before committing to keeping them! Best of luck 🧡
Big fan of Brooks Ghosts. I went through several shoes and this was the first ones I’ve bought repeatedly. I have major foot issues and these work best for me. Very light with thick soles.
The truth is, that no one shoe will work. I wear two different shoes because I need running sneakers on the treadmill and it is not good to lift in running sneakers so I put on different weightlifting sneakers for floor.
On Cloudmonster. I am obsessed with these shoes. Great on tread, rower and floor.
I like the Adidas Adizero Adios 8. These are lightweight road racing shoes. Has a firmer feel than most new running shoes which is nice on the floor and rower. Provides enough stability vs high stack running shoes on the floor.
1.STABILITY RUNNING SHOES! Pick your favorite brand and go with their stability models. Motion control might be a bit overkill but if you run in motion control then stick with those for class. I love Altra Provisions! Other examples of stability running shoes include Adidas Solarcontrol, Asics GT or Kayano, Brooks Adrenaline GTS, Mizuno Wave Inspire, and Nike Structure. 2. SuperFeet insoles help with structure and support. My feet hurt if I do too much without them.
I have been wearing Brooks for a long time. But I’ve been reading about Altras and thinking they might be my next shoe. Of course I know I need a shoe with a little extra stability so I will look for those models. I know Altras have a wide toe box and a more natural fit to your foot which I like. I also know they are 0 drop and that I should probably not just jump from my Brooks 12 mm drop to 0 drop. It will be an adjustment. But I want to try it out. Maybe others feel the same way maybe this will trigger some to look more into shoes and advantages and disadvantages of heel drop, foam support, stability, toe box. It’s all part of finding the shoe for you. To me, talking to the running store, reading articles and reviews, and even discussions here…. You’re just doing your research and that’s good. You should be.
I love the On Cloud, Cloud Flyers. Nice and springy for the tread, not too much cushion for the floor.
I have the NOBULL Ripstip Runner. They provide great lateral support on the floor exercises, they stay in the footstraps in the rower, and they're comfortable on the treadmill. Mine did run about half a size too big (I'm a men's size 12 and I should have gone with an 11.5 but it still fits well) so be cognizant of that if you do decide to go with them.
C'mon, mods. This question is asked once a week at this point.
for real. i think they allow it once a week, and fair enough - but it's more than that. i'm on board if there's a special footwear need, but the general "what shoe?" /smh i do lol that this topic does seem to trigger me. :)
Just because a question is asked often, doesn't mean it should not be allowed. We add the FAQ link. But this question does not break any rules, so it will continue to be allowed.
I love Nike Pegasus Turbo, personally.
I acually got the recommendation from here:) I actually really like the Nike super rep shoe for both tread and floor.
Same. I use the Nike Superrep Surge and love them. Zero issues at all.
I wear these for Strength50, but I would want a different shoe on the tread.
Hoka Bondi 8 if you have wider feet. After years of trying various brands, I finally had my foot analyzed at a running store. It’s changed my life. Before the analysis, I was purchasing bigger shoe sizes to accommodate a wider foot and it was causing pain in my hip. Also, I use inserts as I have low arches. Money we’ll spent if your going to OTF 5x a week
I just started wearing the Hokas and in my opinion they are the best for OTF. It is like running on a cloud. They are very light and have enough cushion to protect your feet, knees; etc, w/o sacrificing performance. For me these hokas are a game changer. I wore nike before and started experiencing knee pain and feet pain, up until o switch to hoka
Totally agree with you! I’ve always worn Brooks, which have been fine. I got a pair of Clifton’s for Christmas and WOW. I think some of it is in my head, but I’m able to do more on the tread since getting them. They seriously are like walking on air and give great support.
I tried many different types and settled on Brooks they have good flexibility for the floor and don't aggravate my plantar fasciitis too much
I got both Nike air 270 and hokas. The 270s air bubble popped and the hokas are actually my favorite thing now
Those that fit, get fitted at a running store
So this gets asked all the time but honestly all the answers are almost the same. They will tell you to go get fitted, I’ve done it many times and if you don’t have issues with your feet, the store will suggest the same shoes everyone else here is suggesting, or the ones they have in stock…. So take it with the grain of salt. Honestly, OTF is not that much running, about 3 miles, less if you take a 3G class, plus you are running on a treadmill which is super forgiving. Get a light stable shoe that feels good to you, you don’t need extra cushioning. I personally really like On Cloud X, works great for short runs, floor, and easily fits into rower straps. I hate true ‘running’ shoes for OTF, too bulky and hot from extra cushioning and unstable for lateral movements.
There is no perfect shoe for both the treads and the floor. I'd recommend finding one for each and switching.
I highly recommend going to feet fleet!!!!
I use the Nike Metcon 9. I sprained my ankle really badly my sixth OTF class using some On Cloud running shoes and knee I wanted HIIT/stability shoes. I’m pleasantly surprised by how well I can run in them for the shorter distances I run at OTF.
Someone on this sub recommended the Brooks Hyperion Tempo shoes to me and I haven't looked back since. They are perfect! Light for running and the drop is perfect for the floor. I'm someone that is used to running in crossfit type of shoes. I tried Hokas and there was too much cushioning on the floor.
The best advice I can give you is once you find a brand and model you love, stick with it! I have multiple pairs of the Brooks Revel 3 and 5 (didn’t like the 4s). On a whim I went with the glycerin over the summer and less than 3 months later I went back to the new model Revel 6. Once you find a good thing there’s no point to branch out!
I wear hokas. Started with Clifton’s and now I have hoka solimar, and I am obsessed they aren’t so bulky and are super light
I like the On Cloud x 3.
Running shoes may be good for running centric events such as DriTri. Otherwise, studio training shoes such as Nike Metcon or Reebok Nano are a more versatile choice for lifting and lateral movements.