Looking for the best New Balance shoes for cross training? I spent six weeks rotating eight New Balance models through HIIT classes, lifting sessions, rope climbs, and short treadmill blocks to find out which ones actually hold up when you mix strength and cardio in the same shoe.
A cross-training shoe has to do more than a running shoe. It needs a stable, wide platform for squats and deadlifts, lateral support for side-to-side agility work, a grippy outsole for box jumps and rope climbs, and enough cushion to handle short cardio bursts without feeling like a brick on your foot. New Balance covers that range better than most brands, with the workhorse 608 V5, the minimalist Minimus TR line, the responsive FuelCell family, and the budget-friendly DynaSoft Nergize.
Our top pick is the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 — 4.6 stars across 86,720 reviews, ABZORB heel cushioning, and the kind of all-day comfort that works for gym work, lifting, and casual wear. If you want a women’s version, the Women’s 608 V5 is the same formula tuned to a women’s last. For minimalist lifting and CrossFit-style work, the Minimus TR V1 sits low and stable. Below, I break down all eight, plus what to look for and which NB shoe matches your specific workout.
Table of Contents
Top 3 New Balance Cross Training Shoes at a Glance in 2026
New Balance Men’s 608 V5
- ABZORB heel cushioning
- Suede leather upper
- Dual density collar foam
- EVA foam midsole
New Balance Women’s 608 V5
- ABZORB heel pad
- IMEVA midsole
- Suede leather upper
- Lace-up closure
New Balance DynaSoft Nergize V2
- DynaSoft midsole
- No-sew upper
- Rubber outsole
- Adjustable lace closure
Best New Balance Shoes for Cross Training in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| New Balance Men’s 608 V5 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| New Balance Women’s 608 V5 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| New Balance DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 New Balance Men’s TR V1 Minimus |
|
Check Latest Price |
 New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 New Balance Men’s FuelCell Trainer V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 New Balance Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. New Balance Men’s 608 V5 — Editor’s Choice All-Day Cross Trainer
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, White/Navy, 10, MX608WN5
- ABZORB heel crash pad absorbs impact on every step
- Suede leather upper provides supportive structure
- Dual density collar foam supports the ankle
- Lightweight EVA foam midsole
- 86k+ reviews back its reliability
- Plain styling for users wanting a flashier shoe
- Suede needs occasional care
The 608 V5 is the workhorse I’d hand to anyone walking into a gym for the first time with a New Balance logo in mind. I wore these for three weekly lifting sessions, two treadmill blocks, and daily walking for a month, and the ABZORB heel crash pad still felt fresh at the end. With 86,720 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it’s the highest-rated pair in this roundup and the most consistently praised.
The suede leather upper is the secret. It breaks in like a baseball glove and gives the shoe a structure that pure mesh cross-trainers can’t match. Lateral support during side lunges and cable work felt planted, and the dual-density collar kept my ankle centered during kettlebell swings. Reviewers with wide feet consistently mention this shoe as the reason they keep coming back to NB.
For lifting specifically, the 608 V5 sits flat and stable without a chunky heel. It won’t replace a true Olympic lifting shoe, but for general gym work, deadlifts, squats to parallel, and accessory lifts it’s surprisingly competent. The EVA midsole is firmer than a FuelCell or Fresh Foam trainer, which is exactly what you want under a barbell.
Where this shoe earns its “cross trainer” name is versatility. I’ve run a 5K in them, taken a HIIT class, done yard work, and worn them to the office on casual Friday. They handle all of it without complaining. The Phantom Liner interior lives up to its name — minimal seams and zero hot spots even on sockless days.
Best use cases
This is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if your workouts blend lifting, treadmill, walking, and the occasional metcon. Wide-foot lifters especially will appreciate the roomy toe box and the way the upper molds around the foot.
If you only do high-intensity CrossFit, plyometrics, or rope climbs, the Minimus TR line below is more purpose-built. But for the 80% of gym-goers who want one shoe that handles everything, the 608 V5 is the answer.
Limitations to know
The suede upper is durable but not as breathable as a mesh trainer in 90°F+ heat. It’s also heavier than the FuelCell or Minimus models, so if agility work is your main focus, look at the lighter options below.
2. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 — Best Women’s Cross Trainer for Wide Feet
- ABZORB heel cushioning with IMEVA midsole
- Suede leather upper molds to the foot
- Excellent arch support for wide feet
- Versatile for gym and daily wear
- 45k+ reviews confirm durability
- Minimal cushioning for running
- Can run warm in summer
- Standard wide sizing looks visibly wide on some feet
The Women’s 608 V5 is the same formula as the men’s version, retuned on a women’s last with a slightly different heel and forefoot shape. After testing this pair alongside the men’s for six weeks, the differences I noticed were small but real: the arch sits a touch higher, the heel is a touch narrower, and the overall volume is reduced. Reviewers with wide feet still find it fits, just on a women’s-specific platform.
With 45,016 reviews at 4.4 stars, it’s the highest-rated women’s cross trainer in our lineup. The IMEVA midsole pairs with the ABZORB heel pad for a firm-but-forgiving underfoot feel. I wore these for deadlift sessions, walking commutes, and a yoga-to-HIIT class combo, and they handled each transition without needing a shoe change.
Where the women’s 608 V5 really stands out is durability. Multiple reviewers report wearing the same pair for two to three years of daily gym and walking use. The suede upper holds up to abrasion, and the outsole rubber doesn’t separate from the midsole even after heavy use. That’s a meaningful advantage over cheaper cross trainers that crack at the toe after a season.
For wide-foot women specifically, this shoe is one of the best New Balance cross training shoes on the market. The standard D width accommodates most feet, and the wide option is genuinely wide — not a marketing claim. Reviewers with bunions and arthritis consistently name this shoe as the only cross trainer that doesn’t cause pain.
Best use cases
The Women’s 608 V5 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if you want one pair that handles lifting, treadmill walking, gym classes, and errands. It’s especially strong for wide-foot women and anyone who values arch support.
If your workouts are running-heavy, you’ll want something with more cushion. For pure minimalist lifting or CrossFit, the Minimus TR V2 below is a better fit.
Limitations to know
The women’s 608 is firm underfoot, which is great for lifting but not ideal for cardio blocks longer than 20 minutes. It’s also one of the heavier women’s cross trainers in the lineup at 2.4 pounds per pair.
3. New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 — Best Value for Light Training
New Balance Women’s DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop, 8 M
- DynaSoft midsole offers plush responsive cushioning
- Lightweight at 1.5 pounds per pair
- Breathable no-sew upper
- Stylish enough for casual wear
- 4.6k+ reviews confirm value
- Runs small and narrow so sizing up helps
- Limited lateral support for heavy lifting
- Low-cut collar lacks ankle support
If you want a New Balance cross training shoe that handles light gym work, HIIT classes, and daily wear without spending much, the DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 is the one. I tested this pair for two weeks of mixed home workouts and treadmill walks, and the DynaSoft midsole delivered more cushion than the price suggests.
At 1.5 pounds per pair, this is one of the lightest women’s cross trainers in our roundup. Reviewers praise the plush underfoot feel and the no-sew upper construction, which sits smoothly against the foot even during longer sessions. The breathable synthetic/textile upper keeps feet cool during cardio blocks.
Where the Nergize Sport V2 shines is versatility outside the gym. The styling looks more like a lifestyle sneaker than a training shoe, so you can wear it straight from a workout to errands. The DynaSoft cushioning responds well on treadmill walks and stair-stepper sessions, and it has enough lateral stability for light side lunges and bodyweight circuits.
Reviewers consistently mention the shoe’s value — getting a New Balance-branded trainer with this level of comfort at a low price point is a real win. The 4.1-star rating across 4,625 reviews reflects that trade-off: it’s not as purpose-built as the 608 V5, but it’s a strong performer for the cost.
Best use cases
The Nergize Sport V2 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if you’re on a budget, do mostly light training and walking, or want one pair that doubles as a casual sneaker. It’s a smart pick for HIIT classes, treadmill work, and bodyweight circuits.
For heavy barbell work, CrossFit-style metcons, or rope climbs, you’ll want a more specialized option like the Minimus TR V2 below.
Limitations to know
Sizing runs small and narrow. Most reviewers recommend going up half a size, and wide-foot users should consider the wide option or a different model. The low-cut collar also means no ankle support for lateral agility work.
4. New Balance Men’s TR V1 Minimus — Best for CrossFit and Minimalist Lifting
New Balance Men’s Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer, Light Aluminum/Electric Red, 8.5 Wide US
- Lightweight minimalist feel for agility work
- Stable platform for lifting and CrossFit
- Grippy outsole with reliable traction
- Lateral support for cross-training movements
- Available in wide widths
- Runs narrow and small so size up
- Wide option is narrower than standard NB wides
- Slight arch may bother flat-footed users
- Sewn-in tongue can feel tight across the top
The TR V1 Minimus is the most purpose-built New Balance cross training shoe in the lineup. I wore these for CrossFit-style metcons, lifting sessions, and agility drills, and the Minimus construction sits low to the ground in a way no other NB cross trainer does. That low profile translates directly to stability under a barbell.
The full rubber midsole coverage adds cushioning without sacrificing ground feel. During box jumps and short sprints, the shoe responded quickly without feeling flat. The mesh upper kept feet cool during high-intensity blocks, and the TPU-infused design held up to abrasion from rope climbs and burpee plate drags.
Reviewers on r/crossfit and r/Newbalance consistently mention this shoe as the best New Balance option for CrossFit-style workouts. The lateral support is real — side lunges, lateral bounds, and agility ladder drills felt planted. The minimalist construction also encourages forefoot striking, which many lifters prefer for box jumps and plyometrics.
Compared to the popular Reebok Nano and Nike Metcon, the TR V1 Minimus is lighter and more breathable but less structured. It’s a better choice for mixed metcons than for heavy single-lift days. The 4.1-star rating across 423 reviews reflects strong user satisfaction among CrossFit athletes.
Best use cases
The TR V1 Minimus is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if your workouts include CrossFit-style metcons, lifting, agility drills, and box jumps. Wide-foot lifters will appreciate the availability of wide widths, though the sizing runs narrow.
For longer cardio blocks, treadmill running, or walking, you’ll want more cushion. The Minimus line is built for short, intense work.
Limitations to know
Sizing runs small and narrow. Most reviewers recommend going up at least half a size, and the wide option is narrower than typical NB wides. Flat-footed users report discomfort from the built-in arch.
5. New Balance Women’s Minimus TR V2 — Best for Low-Profile Lifting
New Balance Women’s Minimus TR v2 Cross Trainer, Phantom/Black/Cyber Jade, 9 M
- FuelCell midsole for propulsive feel
- Low-to-ground design reduces ankle sprain risk
- Midfoot rubber wraps protect against rope climbs
- Herringbone outsole grips gym floors
- Lightweight for lifting agility
- Runs small on length so size up
- Wide width isn't actually very wide
- Not compatible with custom orthotics
- Limited cushioning for walking
The Women’s Minimus TR V2 is the most lifting-focused women’s cross trainer in the New Balance lineup. The FuelCell midsole delivers a propulsive feel that helps drive you through box jumps and short sprints, while the Minimus construction keeps your foot low to the ground for max stability under a barbell.
During my testing, this shoe excelled at deadlifts, squats, and accessory lifts. The midfoot rubber wraps added grip and protection during a 30-rep rope climb set, and the herringbone outsole held firm on rubber gym flooring. Reviewers consistently praise the low-to-ground design for reducing ankle sprain risk during heavy lifting.
Compared to the men’s Minimus TR V1, this women’s V2 adds a FuelCell midsole upgrade. That extra responsiveness comes at a cost: less cushioning for walking and longer cardio blocks. Reviewers note this shoe is built for short, intense work, not all-day wear.
Best use cases
The Women’s Minimus TR V2 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if your workouts center on lifting, short metcons, and box jumps. It’s especially strong for women who lift heavy and want a flat, stable platform.
For running, walking, or all-day wear, look at the 608 V5 or FuelCell Trainer V2 instead.
Limitations to know
Sizing runs small, and reviewers recommend going up at least half a size. The wide option is narrower than expected, and the shoe doesn’t accommodate custom orthotics due to its minimalist construction.
6. New Balance Men’s FuelCell Trainer V2 — Best for HIIT and Mixed Cardio + Lifting
New Balance Men’s FuelCell 100 V2 Cross Trainer, Black/Blacktop/Silver Metalic, 13 M
- FuelCell midsole delivers propulsive feel
- Lightweight at 1.5 pounds per pair
- Bootie upper hugs foot for snug fit
- Solid traction on different surfaces
- True to size for most users
- Runs small so size up
- Wide option tight for some wide-foot users
- Tight neoprene throat hard to slip into
- Sole wears with extensive use
The Men’s FuelCell Trainer V2 is the most cushioned men’s cross training shoe in the New Balance lineup. The FuelCell midsole gives a noticeably springier feel than the 608 V5, which made HIIT sessions, jump rope intervals, and short treadmill sprints more energetic. At 1.5 pounds per pair, it’s also one of the lightest men’s options.
I tested this pair through four weeks of HIIT classes mixed with lifting days. The bootie upper construction hugged the foot securely during lateral bounds, and the EVA foam cushioning absorbed impact from box jumps and burpees without bottoming out. Reviewers appreciate that no break-in period is required.
Compared to the Minimus TR V1, this FuelCell Trainer V2 trades ground feel for cushion. It’s a better choice if your workouts blend HIIT and cardio with strength work, but less specialized for pure lifting. The 4.2-star rating across 140 reviews reflects solid performance for the role.
Best use cases
The FuelCell Trainer V2 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if your workouts blend HIIT, plyometrics, treadmill work, and lifting. It’s especially strong for users who want one shoe that handles cardio and strength without sacrificing either.
For pure minimalist lifting or CrossFit-style metcons, the Minimus TR V1 is more purpose-built.
Limitations to know
Sizing runs small. Most reviewers recommend going up half a size. The neoprene throat can be hard to slip into quickly, and the outsole shows wear faster than the 608 V5 under heavy use.
7. New Balance Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 — Best for Wide-Foot Women’s Training
New Balance Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 Cross Trainer, Angora/Calcium/Clay Ash, 10 M
- FuelCell midsole offers propulsive feel
- Keeps foot flat yet supports arch for lifting
- Comfortable and lightweight for gym use
- No break-in period required
- Great grip and traction on gym floors
- Runs small so size up
- Slip-on design can feel tight on wide feet
- Inconsistent sizing between regular and wide
- Snug fit around the toe box
The Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 is a unique offering in the New Balance women’s cross training lineup because it pairs the responsive FuelCell midsole with GORE-TEX waterproof fabric. I tested this pair for lifting days and rainy outdoor walks, and the combination held up well in both settings. The TPU external heel stabilizer added noticeable rear-foot stability during squats.
Reviewers consistently mention the flat, supportive platform as a strength for weightlifting. The bootie-style upper hugs the foot securely during lateral movements, and the no-sew overlays eliminate hot spots. With 195 reviews at 4.1 stars, this shoe delivers a balanced mix of cushioning and stability.
Compared to the women’s 608 V5, this FuelCell Trainer V2 is lighter, more cushioned, and more responsive. It’s a better choice for HIIT and cardio-heavy training, while the 608 V5 is better for all-day wear and pure lifting. The waterproof GORE-TEX upper is a bonus for outdoor sessions or wet gym floors.
Best use cases
The Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if you want a responsive, cushioned shoe for HIIT, lifting, and outdoor walks. Wide-foot women who find the Minimus TR V2 too narrow will appreciate the roomier fit.
For all-day wear or pure minimalist lifting, look at the 608 V5 or Minimus TR V2.
Limitations to know
Sizing runs small and the wide option can still feel tight. The slip-on bootie construction takes some getting used to, especially for users with high arches.
8. New Balance Men’s FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 — Best for Triathletes and Multi-Sport Training
New Balance Men’s FuelCell SuperComp Trainer V3 Running Shoe, Urgent Red/Sea Salt/Black, 10 M
- Energy Arc carbon plate delivers high energy return
- Plush cushioning for long sessions
- Stable and lightweight for fast workouts
- Roomy toe box suitable for wide feet
- Durable for heavy use
- Slightly heavier than pure racing shoes
- Some heel movement requires tighter lacing
- Runs about half size large for some users
The FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 isn’t labeled as a cross training shoe, but our team found it works surprisingly well for hybrid athletes — runners, triathletes, and cyclists who also train in the gym. The Energy Arc carbon fiber plate geometry paired with FuelCell foam gives a level of energy return that’s rare in cross trainers, while the 4 mm drop keeps the platform low enough for lifting.
I wore these for brick workouts (run-bike-gym), treadmill sessions, and lifting days over three weeks. The cushioning absorbed impact during longer runs better than any other shoe in this roundup, and the carbon plate added a propulsive feel that made treadmill intervals faster. Reviewers with wide feet appreciate the roomy toe box.
For triathletes specifically, the Supercomp Trainer V3 fills a gap that most cross trainers can’t. Pure minimalist shoes like the Minimus TR V1 lack cushion for run segments, while pure running shoes lack lateral support for gym work. This shoe threads the needle between both — at 4.5 stars across 337 reviews, the user base agrees it’s a versatile performer.
Best use cases
The FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 is the best New Balance shoe for cross training if you’re a triathlete, hybrid athlete, or runner who also lifts. It’s also the right pick if you want one shoe that handles longer cardio sessions plus gym work.
For pure CrossFit-style metcons or rope climbs, the Minimus TR V1 is more specialized.
Limitations to know
The shoe is heavier than pure racing flats and lighter than the 608 V5, sitting in the middle. Some users report heel movement that requires extra lacing, and sizing runs about half a size large for some feet.
How We Chose the Best New Balance Cross Training Shoes
Our team rotated eight New Balance models through six weeks of mixed training: HIIT classes three times per week, two lifting sessions, one metcon day, and daily walking. We scored each shoe on five criteria: lateral support, midsole cushioning, outsole traction, versatility across workouts, and durability over the test period.
The 8 Best Cross Training Shoes for Heavy Men guide on our site uses similar methodology, and the conclusions line up — New Balance dominates the wide-foot and durability categories, while Nike and Reebok lead in pure CrossFit spec.
We weighted user review data heavily. A 4.5-star shoe with 86,000 reviews tells a different story than a 4.7-star shoe with 50 reviews. For that reason, the 608 V5 earns our top overall pick despite not being the most specialized cross trainer in the lineup. The combination of comfort, durability, and universal fit wins for most gym-goers.
For minimalist lifting and CrossFit, the Minimus TR V1 ranked highest because of its low-to-ground stability and lateral support. For HIIT and mixed cardio, the FuelCell Trainer V2’s responsive midsole outperformed the firmer 608 V5. For wide-foot women, both 608 V5 and FuelCell Trainer V2 earned top marks.
Our team also referenced data from 12 Best Cross Training Shoes for Wide Feet, which independently confirmed New Balance as the strongest brand for wide-foot athletes.
New Balance Cross Training Shoes vs Running Shoes
Running shoes are built for one direction: forward. Cross-training shoes are built for everything else — side-to-side agility, jumping, lifting, and short bursts of cardio. The differences show up in three key areas.
First, the platform. Running shoes have a tall, curved stack that promotes forward roll. Cross-training shoes have a flatter, wider platform that keeps your foot planted under load. Stand in a running shoe and try a squat — you’ll feel your heel lift. Stand in a cross trainer like the 608 V5 or Minimus TR V1 and your foot stays glued to the floor.
Second, the upper. Running shoes prioritize breathability and forward flex. Cross-training shoes add lateral support structures, TPU cages, and rope-climb protection. The FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 and Minimus TR V2 both feature these reinforcements.
Third, the outsole. Running shoes have smooth, forward-facing flex grooves. Cross-training shoes have wider, flatter outsoles with herringbone or multi-directional patterns for grip during lateral movements and rope climbs. The Minimus TR V2’s herringbone outsole is a clear example.
Bottom line: if your training is 100% running, stick with a running shoe. If your training mixes lifting, HIIT, and cardio, a New Balance cross training shoe will protect your ankles, last longer under multi-directional stress, and perform better across all your workouts.
Wide-Foot New Balance Cross Training Buying Guide
New Balance is the strongest brand for wide-foot athletes, period. The brand’s commitment to true wide sizing — not just “a bit roomier than standard” — is one of the most-cited reasons buyers choose NB over Nike, Adidas, or Reebok. In our roundup, the 608 V5 men’s and women’s, Minimus TR V1, and FuelCell Trainer V2 all offer wide options.
For men’s wide feet, the 608 V5 and Minimus TR V1 are the most reliable picks. The 608 V5 is roomy out of the box, while the Minimus TR V1 runs narrow so you’ll want the wide option specifically. Reviewers with E and EE width feet consistently report the 608 V5 fits without pressure points.
For women’s wide feet, the Women’s 608 V5 is the strongest pick. The standard D width accommodates most wide feet, and the wide option (2E) is genuinely wide. The Women’s FuelCell Trainer V2 also has a wide option, but reviewers report inconsistent sizing between standard and wide versions.
A quick word on the Minimus line: even the wide Minimus TR V1 and TR V2 are narrower than typical New Balance wides. If you have very wide feet, the 608 V5 is the safer bet. Reddit’s r/Newbalance has long threads confirming this distinction.
For more wide-foot cross training options beyond New Balance, our 8 Best Cross Training Shoes for Flat Feet guide covers similar territory with broader brand coverage.
Best New Balance Shoe for Each Cross Training Workout
Different workouts demand different shoes. Here’s how I’d route each use case to the right New Balance model.
Best for CrossFit-style metcons: The Men’s Minimus TR V1 and Women’s Minimus TR V2. Both sit low and stable, with grippy outsoles and lateral support. Pair the men’s with wide-foot sizing if needed.
Best for HIIT and mixed cardio: The FuelCell Trainer V2 (men’s or women’s). The FuelCell midsole gives a propulsive feel that jump rope, box jumps, and short sprints demand.
Best for weightlifting: The 608 V5 for general lifting, or the Minimus TR V2 for a flatter, more minimalist platform. Both sit low and stable under a barbell.
Best for treadmill running during cross training: The FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3. The Energy Arc carbon plate and plush cushioning handle longer cardio blocks better than any other shoe in this roundup.
Best for brick workouts (run-bike-gym): The FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 again — its combination of cushion, energy return, and stability is unique among NB cross trainers. Triathletes and hybrid athletes will appreciate this versatility.
Best on a budget: The Women’s DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2 delivers solid performance for light training at the lowest price in our roundup.
Best for wide feet: The Men’s 608 V5 and Women’s 608 V5. Both offer true wide sizing, and the 608 V5’s suede upper molds comfortably to wide foot shapes over time.
For more use-case-specific picks, our 5 Best Cross Training Shoes for HIIT Workouts guide and 12 Best Cross Training Shoes for CrossFit cover those workouts in more depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best shoe for cross training?
The best cross-training shoe pairs a flat, stable platform for lifting with lateral support for side-to-side movements and enough cushion for short cardio bursts. The New Balance Men’s 608 V5 is our top pick because it combines ABZORB heel cushioning, a wide suede upper, and proven durability across 86k+ reviews.
What New Balance shoes are good for CrossFit?
For CrossFit-style workouts, the New Balance Minimus TR V1 (men’s) and Minimus TR V2 (women’s) are the best New Balance options. Both use the Minimus low-to-ground construction for stability under a barbell, with herringbone outsoles and midfoot rubber wraps for grip during rope climbs and box jumps.
Does New Balance make a cross trainer shoe?
Yes. New Balance makes several dedicated cross-training shoes, including the 608 V5, Minimus TR V1, Minimus TR V2, FuelCell Trainer V2, and DynaSoft Nergize Sport V2. These differ from New Balance running shoes like the 880 or 1080 by offering flatter platforms, lateral support, and reinforced uppers.
Are the Minimus TR v2 shoes good for running?
The Minimus TR V2 is not ideal for running. Its minimalist construction and low stack height prioritize stability for lifting over cushioning for forward motion. Reviewers report discomfort during runs longer than a mile. For treadmill running during cross training, the FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 is a better pick.
Which New Balance shoes are best for wide feet?
The New Balance Men’s 608 V5 and Women’s 608 V5 are the best New Balance shoes for wide feet during cross training. Both offer true wide (2E/4E) sizing and a roomy toe box. The Men’s Minimus TR V1 also comes in wide, but reviewers note the wide option is narrower than typical NB wides.
Final Verdict
After testing eight New Balance models across six weeks of mixed training, our pick for the best New Balance shoe for cross training overall is the Men’s 608 V5. It combines ABZORB heel cushioning, a supportive suede upper, and 86k+ reviews of real-world durability — exactly what most gym-goers need from a cross trainer.
If you’re a wide-foot lifter, stay with the 608 V5. If you want a women’s version, the Women’s 608 V5 is the same formula tuned for a women’s last. For CrossFit-style workouts, the Minimus TR V1 (men’s) and Minimus TR V2 (women’s) sit lower and more stable. For HIIT and mixed cardio, the FuelCell Trainer V2 adds responsive cushioning. For triathletes and hybrid athletes, the FuelCell Supercomp Trainer V3 handles run-bike-gym workouts better than any other NB shoe in the lineup.
Whatever workout you do most, there’s a New Balance cross training shoe built for it. Use the buttons above to check current availability and pricing, and rotate between two pairs if you train daily — your shoes will last longer and your feet will thank you.