Anyone who’s in the market for new workout shoes should consider a minimalist pair over traditional ones. Whether you’re new to the style or have been wearing them for years, the Whitin Men’s Cross-Trainer Barefoot Shoes are a great choice. They’re an Amazon bestseller with over 10,000 ratings and offer many benefits that you won’t see with other types of sneakers.
The main difference you’ll notice by wearing barefoot shoes as opposed to other sneakers is that they are more lightweight and have a wider tow box. This ensures you have plenty of room to match the natural shape of your foot without feeling constricting. They also have a thin, flat sole that’s super flexible and moves with your foot for added comfort.
It’s meant to support your natural curvature and discourage heel striking, which some studies say makes athletes more susceptible to injury. Plus, this shoe, in particular, promotes better balance and healthy posture that’s useful for various activities. Shoppers wear these shoes for running marathons, weightlifting, and beyond.
Get It: Whitin Men’s Cross-Trainer Barefoot Shoes, $44 (was $63) on Amazon
If you’re still on the fence, take it from more than 10,000 shoppers who swear by these shoes for both comfort and durability. The last thing you want is for a pair of shoes to only last one season. One person claimed, “I have had these shoes for well over a year now and they’re still standing up to daily/weekly use.”
“I run marathons, do weightlifting, and play disc golf. This pair of shoes does it all,” wrote another 5-star reviewer. “Even standing around for hours at a festival I was comfortable and my feet are far stronger after wearing them awhile”
Related: The Best Duathlon Gear for Training and Racing
Shoes like this don’t typically cost less than $50, so now’s the time to make the switch without breaking the bank. After all, they’re versatile, and shoppers have proven they can be worn practically anywhere.
