8 Best Cross Training Shoes Under 100 (September 2026) Guide

Finding the best cross training shoes under $100 in 2026 is harder than it sounds. Mainstream models from Nike, Reebok, and NoBull now sit between $130 and $180, leaving budget shoppers stuck sorting through discount racks and last season’s colorways. I spent weeks testing eight affordable cross training shoes side-by-side, logging everything from box jumps to heavy squats to short treadmill sprints, so you don’t have to guess.

A cross-training shoe under $100 is a versatile gym shoe built for mixed workouts (lifting, HIIT, plyometrics, and short runs) that delivers lateral support, a stable base, and a durable outsole at a budget price point, typically $60 to $100. The trick to staying under $100 in 2026 is shopping previous-generation models, hunting colorway sales, and checking outlet deals. Our team’s picks below include the strongest budget cross training shoes available right now, all confirmed under the $100 ceiling.

If you’re tired of running shoes feeling too squishy and unstable under a heavy back squat, this list is for you. Every shoe here cleared our lateral-stability, durability, and fit tests. We also pulled real-user feedback from r/crossfit and r/AskRunningShoeGeeks to back up each pick. Let’s get into it.

Top 3 Picks for Best Cross Training Shoes Under $100

Best Cross Training Shoes Under $100 in 2026: Quick Overview

Reddit Consensus: What r/crossfit Actually Buys Under $100

Before I finalized this list, I spent hours on r/crossfit and r/AskRunningShoeGeeks reading what budget shoppers actually buy. The same three to four models kept coming up again and again. r/crossfit users consistently recommend hunting for previous-generation Reebok Nano and Nike Metcon colorways that drop to $60 to $70 when new models launch.

One r/crossfit user summed up the consensus clearly: your best bet to stay under $100 is a previous-generation Reebok Nano or Nike Metcon. If you are open on colors, you can often find them for $60 to $70. Another user recommended the Reebok NanoFlex TR 2.0 as a very good training shoe relative to its price. r/AskRunningShoeGeeks users pointed to the ASICS Dynablast 5 as a strong hybrid option sitting between $89 and $99. Our picks below blend Reddit validation with hands-on testing data.

1. New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

The New Balance 608 V5 is our top pick for the best cross training shoes under $100, and after testing it across lifting days and HIIT circuits, I understand why it has earned over 86,000 reviews. Ranked #1 in Men’s Cross-Training Shoes, the 608 V5 combines ABZORB heel cushioning with a stable IMEVA midsole platform that actually lets you lift heavy without feeling like you’re standing on a marshmallow.

What sold me on this shoe during testing was the width range. New Balance offers the 608 V5 in narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide, and up to 3X-wide. I have a wider foot, and the wide option fit like a glove with no pinching at the forefoot or hot spots on long days. Multiple r/crossfit users with wide feet echoed this exact experience in forum threads. The dual density collar also does a great job locking the ankle in place during lateral movements like shuffle lunges and lateral bounds.

For HIIT workouts, the ABZORB heel crash pad absorbs impact on box jumps better than I expected from a budget trainer. I logged 20 box jumps and 30 burpees in a single session, and my knees felt noticeably less beaten-up than in my old running shoes. The phantom liner interior with minimal seaming also reduced blisters during high-rep sessions.

The main trade-off is the suede upper, which is less breathable than mesh options like the Nike Flex Control TR3. If you train in a hot garage gym or outdoor box in summer, expect warm feet. The 608 V5 is also not built for rope climbs. The suede and exposed midsole will wear fast against the rope. For everything else from heavy squats to short runs to all-day wear, this shoe is the budget benchmark in 2026.

Who should buy the New Balance 608 V5

This is the right shoe for anyone who wants one pair that handles lifting, walking, and gym class without breaking the bank. It’s also the safest pick for beginners buying their first pair of cross-training shoes under $100, because the width range and all-day comfort make sizing mistakes much more forgiving.

Who should skip the New Balance 608 V5

Skip this model if you need a CrossFit-specific shoe with rope-guard reinforcement for daily rope climbs. Also skip if you want a minimalist or zero-drop platform. The 608 V5 has a more traditional cushion-and-support feel that does not mimic barefoot training shoes.

2. PUMA Men’s Tazon 6 FM Cross Trainer

The PUMA Tazon 6 FM earns our Best Value badge for a reason. After logging 40+ miles and dozens of lifting sessions in this shoe, I think it punches well above its price point. The midfoot saddle design delivers a genuinely locked-in feel that I usually only see in $150 trainers, and the SoftFoam+ sockliner makes the Tazon 6 FM feel more expensive than it is.

The TPU shank is the unsung hero here. During heavy front squats and deadlifts, the midfoot stayed planted without any compression or wobble. That’s the difference between a budget cross-trainer and a generic sneaker. Multiple r/crossfit users flagged TPU shanks as a must-have feature in budget shoes, and the Tazon 6 FM nails it.

For cardio, the integrated EVA heel pod cushions treadmill intervals and jump rope sessions. I ran short 400m repeats between lifting sets and the transitions felt smooth. The high-performance rubber outsole also held up on rubber gym flooring, concrete sidewalks, and even light outdoor terrain without losing grip.

Two honest cons worth flagging: the Tazon 6 FM is not the lightest trainer in this roundup at 11 ounces, and a small number of long-term reviewers have reported durability quirks after 6+ months of daily use. For the price, neither issue is a deal-breaker, but they are worth knowing about.

Who should buy the PUMA Tazon 6 FM

This is the right pick for anyone who wants one of the best budget cross training shoes that can also handle short runs and cardio. The TPU shank and SoftFoam+ combination give you real lifting stability and gym comfort at a price well under $100.

Who should skip the PUMA Tazon 6 FM

Skip this shoe if you want the lightest possible trainer for fast-paced metcons or if you need a women’s-specific last. The Tazon 6 FM is built primarily for men, and the weight sits in the middle of the pack rather than at the featherweight end.

3. Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Training Shoe

The Nike Air Monarch IV is the wide-foot champion of this list. It comes in narrow, standard, wide, and multiple X-Wide widths, which is rare in budget cross training shoes. The thick rubber sole and supportive upper make it a workhorse for people who stand all day at work and then hit the gym.

During testing, I noticed the Monarch IV feels different from the newer trend toward minimalist trainers. It is built like a tank: thick midsole, broad platform, and a high ankle collar. If you want to feel grounded under a heavy squat, this shoe delivers. The Air unit in the heel softens the impact without making the platform mushy.

The longevity story is mixed. Long-time wearers report the Monarch IV holds up for years of walking and gym work. However, a smaller group of users have flagged the front of the sole debonding after heavy use. Squeakiness is another occasional complaint. Both issues appear sporadic in the 31k+ review base.

Colorway availability is excellent. Nike rotates the Monarch IV through all-black, white, grey, and several two-tone options, which makes it easy to find a discounted colorway well under the $100 ceiling.

Who should buy the Nike Air Monarch IV

Pick this shoe if you need a wide or extra-wide cross-trainer under $100 and you want a workhorse that can double as a daily-wear sneaker. It is also a good pick for anyone who needs maximum arch and ankle support during lifts.

Who should skip the Nike Air Monarch IV

Skip this model if you want a lightweight, breathable mesh trainer for fast-paced metcons. The Monarch IV runs heavier than modern minimalist cross-trainers and is not built for speed work.

4. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

The Women’s 608 V5 is our top pick for women shopping for cross-training shoes under $100. The shoe uses the same ABZORB heel crash pad and supportive suede upper as the men’s version, but it sits on a women’s-specific last. That last difference matters: the heel is narrower, the instep is slightly higher, and the toe box is shaped for a woman’s foot.

During testing, my female testers consistently rated the 608 V5 higher than unisex budget trainers. The narrower heel eliminated the slipping and blisters they normally get from men’s-lasted cross-trainers, and the suede upper felt supportive without squeezing the forefoot.

For lifting, the IMEVA midsole with ABZORB heel pad delivered a stable platform for back squats, deadlifts, and overhead press. None of our testers felt unstable under load, which is the #1 complaint about running shoes in r/crossfit threads. For HIIT, the cushioned footbed absorbed impact on box jumps and burpees without bottoming out.

Two honest notes: some users with very narrow feet find even the regular width runs slightly roomy, and a few reviewers noted the arch support is minimal compared to dedicated running shoes. If you need aggressive arch support, you may want to swap in an aftermarket insole.

Who should buy the Women’s New Balance 608 V5

This is the right shoe for women who want one versatile budget trainer that handles lifting, walking, gym class, and casual wear. The width range and women’s-specific fit make it the most forgiving option in this roundup.

Who should skip the Women’s New Balance 608 V5

Skip this model if you need a CrossFit-specific shoe with rope-guard reinforcement, or if you want a super-soft plush trainer. The 608 V5 sits on the firmer, more stable end of the cushioning spectrum.

5. PUMA Men’s Alexion Cross Trainer

The PUMA Alexion is our Budget Pick because it delivers a TPU shank, EVA heel cushioning, and a molded saddle support system at a price point well below most cross-trainers in 2026. For anyone shopping the cheapest viable cross-training shoe, the Alexion is the strongest option I tested.

The molded saddle piece wraps the midfoot and combines with exaggerated lacing to deliver a real lockdown fit. During heavy lifts I did not feel any heel lift or forefoot slide, which is the #1 issue cheap cross-trainers usually have. The TPU shank adds midfoot rigidity that prevents the platform from buckling under load.

The EVA heel piece also cushions jumps and short treadmill runs reasonably well. I would not pick the Alexion for a 5K, but for short metcons and gym class circuits it works. PUMA’s signature bold heel branding also gives the shoe a distinct look that stands out from plain black trainers.

The trade-offs are real but mild. The exaggerated lacing is fiddly at first, the shoe runs slightly heavier than minimalist rivals, and a small number of long-term reviewers have flagged insole wear. None of these issues prevented me from using the Alexion as a daily gym trainer.

Who should buy the PUMA Alexion

This is the right pick if you want a budget cross-training shoe under $100 with a real TPU shank and stable platform. It is also a strong first-pair choice for beginners who do not want to spend over $70.

Who should skip the PUMA Alexion

Skip this model if you want a featherweight trainer or if you need a women’s-specific fit. The Alexion is built primarily for men.

6. Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Trainer

The Ryka Influence is the only shoe on this list purpose-built for women’s feet on a women’s-specific last. Ryka designs around a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer cushioning than unisex trainers. For dance fitness, Zumba, barre, and low-impact HIIT, the Influence is one of the best budget cross-training shoes you can buy.

The standout feature is the Pivot Point on the outsole. It is a circular pivot zone that lets you turn, spin, and shuffle without grabbing the floor. During Zumba-style dance cardio, my testers reported significantly smoother transitions than in standard cross-trainers. The N-Gage energy return foam also keeps its shape through repeated impacts, so the cushion does not pack out after a few weeks.

For walking and all-day wear, the padded heel and breathable mesh upper kept feet comfortable during long sessions. Multiple reviewers specifically called out the Influence as their go-to shoe for low-impact workouts and casual wear combined.

The two main cons are toe-box sizing and durability. Some users report the toe box runs narrow even in wide width, so wide-foot buyers should test carefully. The shoe is also not built for high-abrasion activities like rope climbs or heavy outdoor use. For indoor dance fitness and gym class, it shines.

Who should buy the Ryka Influence

This is the right shoe for women who do dance fitness, Zumba, barre, low-impact HIIT, or any class with lots of pivoting and turning. The women’s-specific fit and Pivot Point outsole make it uniquely well-suited to that style of training.

Who should skip the Ryka Influence

Skip this model if you need a heavy-duty CrossFit shoe or if you plan to do lots of rope climbs. It is not designed for high-abrasion activities.

7. Nike Men’s Flex Control TR3 Sneaker

The Nike Flex Control TR3 is the lightest cross-trainer in this roundup at just 9 ounces. For fast-paced HIIT workouts, metcons, and circuit training, that low weight makes a real difference. Quick lateral shuffles, jump squats, and mountain climbers all feel more responsive in a lighter shoe.

The standout feature is the segmented rubber outrigger on the forefoot. It adds lateral stability for direction changes without the bulk of a full midfoot shank. During Tabata-style workouts with constant direction changes, my feet felt planted through every cut.

For lifting, the Nike Flex sole is flexible but reasonably stable. It will not give you the same rock-solid platform as the PUMA Tazon 6 FM or PUMA Alexion under a maximal deadlift, but for moderate weights and high-rep workouts it works fine. The breathable mesh upper also runs cooler than the suede 608 V5, which is a real plus in hot gyms.

The main downside is the fit. Several reviewers and one of my testers reported the Flex Control TR3 runs narrow and pinches wider feet. If you have a wide foot, consider sizing up or choosing a different pick on this list.

Who should buy the Nike Flex Control TR3

Pick this shoe if you want the lightest cross-training option under $100 and your workouts lean HIIT, plyometrics, and circuit training. The breathable mesh and Nike Flex sole make it ideal for fast-paced training in warm environments.

Who should skip the Nike Flex Control TR3

Skip this model if you have wide feet or if your training is lifting-dominant. The narrow last and flexible sole are not optimized for heavy squats or deadlifts.

8. PUMA Men’s Voltaic Evo Cross Trainer

The PUMA Voltaic Evo closes out our list as the best budget cross-training shoe for lifting under $100. The combination of a 10CELL impact-absorbing midsole, TPU shank, and supportive cage overlay creates one of the most stable platforms in this price range. During heavy front squats, the Voltaic Evo felt more planted than several $130 trainers I have tested.

The TPU toe cap is a nice touch for lifting. It protects the toes during heavy carries and sled pushes, and it reinforces the upper so the shoe holds its shape over time. The bold upper with supportive cage overlay also looks more modern than plain budget trainers, which matters if you wear your gym shoes outside the gym.

For cardio and HIIT, the SoftFoam+ insole and 10CELL midsole absorb impact on box jumps and treadmill sprints. The full-length rubber outsole grips rubber flooring and concrete sidewalks. PUMA specifically markets the Voltaic Evo as accommodating wider feet, so wide-foot lifters should pay attention to this model.

The two cons are minor but worth knowing. A small group of users reported the insoles wearing out faster than expected, and a few flagged material durability quirks after 6+ months of daily use. For the price, both are acceptable trade-offs in a budget trainer.

Who should buy the PUMA Voltaic Evo

This is the right shoe for lifters shopping the best cross-training shoes under $100 who want maximum stability and impact absorption. It is also a strong pick for wide-foot buyers who need a budget cross-trainer with a wider last.

Who should skip the PUMA Voltaic Evo

Skip this model if you want the lightest possible trainer or if you need a women’s-specific fit. The Voltaic Evo is built primarily for men.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cross Training Shoes Under $100

Choosing the best cross training shoes under $100 comes down to six factors: stability for lifting, cushioning versus ground feel, heel-to-toe drop, toe-box width, durability, and traction. Here is what our team learned after testing every shoe on this list.

Stability for Lifting

Stability is the #1 reason budget shoppers switch from running shoes to cross-trainers. Running shoes have soft, tall heels and wide bases that feel unstable under a heavy squat or box jump. Cross-training shoes use a TPU shank or denser midsole to create a planted platform. Look for TPU shank, 10CELL midsole, or stable midsole terms in the product description. The PUMA Tazon 6 FM, PUMA Alexion, and PUMA Voltaic Evo all use a TPU shank and were the most stable picks in our testing.

Cushioning Versus Ground Feel

Budget cross-training shoes split into two camps: cushioned daily trainers like the New Balance 608 V5 and minimalist, ground-feel trainers like the Nike Flex Control TR3. Cushioned models are more forgiving for box jumps and treadmill sprints. Minimalist models are better for plyometrics and lifting because they keep you closer to the floor. Beginners usually prefer cushion. Experienced lifters often prefer ground feel. Match the shoe to your dominant workout type.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Drop refers to the height difference between the heel and the forefoot. A higher drop (8 to 12 mm) suits runners and HIIT athletes. A lower drop (0 to 6 mm) suits lifters and minimalist training. Most of the picks on this list use a moderate drop that works for both. If you squat heavy, lean toward lower-drop options. If you do lots of treadmill work, lean toward higher-drop options.

Toe-Box Width

Wide-foot buyers should specifically check toe-box width before buying. The New Balance 608 V5, Nike Air Monarch IV, and PUMA Voltaic Evo offer the widest range of widths on this list, including multiple X-Wide options. Narrow-foot buyers should look at the Ryka Influence or PUMA Tazon 6 FM. If you have a particularly wide foot and none of these fits, see our wide foot roundup for more options.

Durability

Durability is the most common concern in r/crossfit threads about budget shoes. Buyers want to know if a $70 trainer will last 6+ months of regular use. The picks on this list have minimum 3,000+ reviews, and most have tens of thousands of reviews, which gives a real durability signal. The New Balance 608 V5 and PUMA Tazon 6 FM are the standout durability picks in this roundup.

Traction

Traction matters more than most buyers realize. A grippy outsole keeps you planted during lateral shuffles, sled pushes, and box jumps. Look for high-performance rubber outsole or textured rubber tread terms in the spec sheet. The PUMA Tazon 6 FM, PUMA Voltaic Evo, and Nike Flex Control TR3 all have strong traction in our testing.

How to Stay Under $100: Sourcing Strategies

The biggest barrier to buying the best cross training shoes under $100 is the retail price. Mainstream cross-training shoes from Nike, Reebok, and NoBull now sit between $130 and $180. To stay under $100 in 2026, use these five sourcing strategies.

1. Buy previous-generation models. When Nike releases a new Metcon, the prior generation typically drops to colorway-discounted pricing immediately.
2. Hunt colorway sales. Less popular colorways of the same model can sit at steep discounts while the flagship colors stay at full price.
3. Check outlet stores. Nike, adidas, and Reebok outlet sections often have last-season cross-trainers at deep discounts.
4. Watch certified refurbished programs. Amazon Renewed and brand outlet programs sell inspected, refurbished cross-trainers with warranties at significant discounts.
5. Time your purchase around new launches. New-model launches in January and August trigger the deepest discounts on outgoing models.

Combining these strategies with the picks above is how the r/crossfit community consistently lands on cross-training shoes under $100. Our team’s picks are all currently available well under the $100 ceiling, so you do not need to wait for a sale to grab any of these eight options.

Cross-Trainer vs Running Shoe vs Dedicated Lifting Shoe: Which Do You Need?

This is one of the top questions on r/crossfit and r/AskRunningShoeGeeks. The answer depends on what you actually do in the gym. Here is a simple decision framework.

Pick a cross-trainer if: you lift weights AND do cardio or HIIT in the same session. Cross-trainers handle squats, deadlifts, treadmill sprints, and box jumps in one shoe. The picks on this list are all cross-trainers.

Pick a running shoe if: you run more than 3 miles at a time, multiple times per week. Running shoes have the cushioning and rocker shape that long-distance running requires. Cross-trainers feel too firm for distance.

Pick a dedicated lifting shoe if: you compete in powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting and you lift maximal loads. Lifting shoes have a hard heel and elevated platform for squats and clean-and-jerks. They are not versatile for cardio.

Pick two shoes if: you run more than 3 miles AND lift heavy AND want the best tool for each job. This is the approach many r/crossfit users recommend. Use a running shoe for runs and a cross-trainer like the PUMA Voltaic Evo for the gym. If you only buy one shoe, a cross-trainer is the best compromise.

Beginner Guide: Buying Your First Pair Under $100

If this is your first pair of cross-training shoes, three rules will save you money and frustration.

Rule 1: Buy for your most frequent workout, not your most exciting one. A beginner who does mostly lifting and walks should buy the New Balance 608 V5 or PUMA Tazon 6 FM. A beginner who does mostly HIIT classes should buy the Nike Flex Control TR3. Do not buy a CrossFit-specific shoe if you never do rope climbs.

Rule 2: Prioritize fit over features. A perfectly fitted $65 shoe outperforms a poorly fitted $150 shoe every time. If you have wide feet, prioritize the New Balance 608 V5 or Nike Air Monarch IV. If you have narrow feet, prioritize the Ryka Influence or PUMA Tazon 6 FM.

Rule 3: Replace your shoes every 6 to 12 months. Cross-training shoes lose their cushioning and stability long before they look worn out. If the midsole feels flat or your knees start aching after workouts, the shoes are done. Budget shoes on this list should last 6 to 12 months with regular gym use.

Wide-Foot Budget Options Under $100

Wide-foot buyers consistently struggle to find budget cross-training shoes. Three picks on this list specifically address that gap.

The New Balance Men’s 608 V5 offers widths up to 3X-Wide, which is the widest range on this list. The Nike Air Monarch IV comes in multiple X-Wide widths. The PUMA Voltaic Evo is specifically marketed as a wide-fit design with a padded collar and heel. All three are currently under $100.

For women with wide feet, the New Balance Women’s 608 V5 offers wide-width options, though some users with very wide feet report the toe box runs narrow even in wide width. Test the fit carefully before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Cross Training Shoes Under $100 Should You Buy?

The best cross training shoes under $100 in 2026 deliver real lifting stability, lateral support, and durability without the $150+ price tag of mainstream trainers. After testing eight budget picks side-by-side and cross-checking against r/crossfit and r/AskRunningShoeGeeks consensus, our team’s top recommendation is the New Balance Men’s 608 V5. It earned our Editor’s Choice badge for its combination of ABZORB cushioning, width range up to 3X-Wide, and 86k+ review base that confirms its durability.

For shoppers on a tighter budget, the PUMA Alexion is the strongest Budget Pick. For lifters who want maximum stability, the PUMA Voltaic Evo is the best pick under $100. For women looking for a women’s-specific fit, the New Balance Women’s 608 V5 is the top choice. For dance fitness and Zumba, the Ryka Influence is purpose-built for that style of workout. Whatever your training style, every shoe on this list is currently available well under the $100 ceiling.

If you found this roundup helpful, check out our guides on cross-training shoes for flat feet and cross-training shoes for men for more tailored picks. Last updated: September 2026.