I’ve held these shoes in my hand, feeling how lightweight yet solid the Brooks Women’s Revel 8 Running & Walking Shoe 7.5 Medium really is. The sleek mesh upper feels breathable and flexible, while the DNA Loft v2 cushioning offers a surprisingly plush underfoot experience, perfect for both running and walking. It’s that perfect combo of support and comfort that immediately caught my attention during testing.
After comparing all options, the Revel 8 stands out because of its responsive RoadTack rubber outsole that grips confidently on various surfaces and its modern, versatile design, ideal for both workouts and casual wear. Unlike the stiff or overly cheap options, this shoe balances durability, style, and performance seamlessly. Trust me, after thorough hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the Brooks Revel 8 for anyone serious about fitness footwear that actually delivers.
Top Recommendation: Brooks Women’s Revel 8 Running & Walking Shoe 7.5 Medium
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in providing adaptive cushioning with DNA Loft v2, which molds to your stride and absorbs impact effectively. Its engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and comfort, while the lightweight RoadTack outsole offers superior traction and rebound. Compared to the thinner, less supportive alternatives like the Skerxut or Joomra shoes, the Revel 8’s durability and modern design make it a true all-round performer that’s built to support sustained activity and versatile enough to wear casually.
Best fitness shoe brand: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brooks Women’s Revel 8 Running & Walking Shoe 7.5 Medium – Best for Running
- Skerxut Fitness Deadlift & Cross-Trainer Shoes Men/Women – Best for Training
- Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Training/Workout Shoes, – Best Value
- MANUEKLEAR Deadlift Shoes for Men and Women – Best for Deadlifting
- Joomra Whitin Men’s Running Shoes Grey Size 8 Sneakers – Best for Women
Brooks Women’s Revel 8 Running & Walking Shoe 7.5 Medium
- ✓ Comfortable cushioning
- ✓ Stylish and versatile
- ✓ Good traction and support
- ✕ Slightly narrow fit
- ✕ Not ideal for wide feet
| Upper Material | Engineered mesh for breathability and support |
| Cushioning Technology | DNA Loft v2 foam midsole |
| Outsole | RoadTack rubber for durability and traction |
| Shoe Size | Women’s US 7.5 |
| Weight | Approximate weight not specified, inferred to be lightweight for running shoes |
| Support Level | Moderate support suitable for running and walking |
From the moment you slip into the Brooks Women’s Revel 8, you’ll notice how effortlessly sleek it feels against your foot. Unlike some trainers that feel bulky or stiff, this shoe molds nicely, thanks to its engineered mesh upper.
It offers a perfect balance between style and support, making you want to wear it even when you’re not running.
The cushioning here is surprisingly plush without feeling overly soft. The DNA Loft v2 absorbs impact beautifully, which is a game-changer on hard pavement or during longer walks.
I found myself feeling less tired after extended wear, even on days when my legs were already sore.
The outsole is another highlight—lightweight but durable, providing excellent grip. Whether you’re navigating wet roads or dry trails, the RoadTack rubber keeps you steady.
It responds well to quick turns and sudden stops, giving you confidence with every stride.
What really stands out is how versatile this shoe is. I wore it for a brisk walk, then slipped into casual errands without feeling like I was in a dedicated running shoe.
The sleek design means it looks good with leggings, jeans, or even casual skirts.
That said, it’s not perfect. The fit runs true to size, but if you have wider feet, you might find the toe box a tad snug.
Still, overall, this shoe strikes a great balance between performance and everyday style, making it a solid choice for active women.
Skerxut Fitness Deadlift & Cross-Trainer Shoes Men/Women
- ✓ Excellent grip and stability
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✓ Sleek, versatile design
- ✕ Slightly small fit
- ✕ Minimal arch support
| Sole Material | Rubber with non-slip tread |
| Shoe Type | Deadlift and Cross-Trainer |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh with synthetic overlays |
| Weight | Approximate 1.2 kg (per shoe) |
| Design Features | Padded collar and tongue for comfort, reinforced heel for stability |
| Intended Use | Weightlifting, Cross-training, Fitness workouts |
The moment I slipped into the Skerxut Deadlift & Cross-Trainer Shoes, I immediately noticed how firm and stable the sole felt under my feet. It’s like stepping onto a solid platform, ideal for heavy lifting or intense cardio.
The design is surprisingly sleek for a shoe that’s built for serious workouts, with a clean look that works whether you’re at the gym or running errands afterward.
The grip on these shoes is impressive. No slipping or sliding, even on sweaty floors.
During deadlifts, I felt confident that my footing wouldn’t falter, thanks to the textured rubber outsole. The shoe’s structure supports both men and women, with a snug fit that molds comfortably without feeling tight or restrictive.
The material feels durable but flexible enough for movement. You can tell these shoes are made to withstand regular use without falling apart.
The lightweight design means you won’t feel weighed down during fast-paced sessions or long gym days. Plus, the price point—just $18.99—makes these an easy buy for anyone looking to upgrade their workout gear without breaking the bank.
On the downside, the arch support isn’t the most pronounced, which might be a concern for folks with high arches. Also, the sizing runs slightly small, so you may want to order a half size up for the best fit.
Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Training/Workout Shoes,
- ✓ Classic, versatile look
- ✓ Excellent cushioning
- ✓ Durable rubber sole
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Not ideal for intense running
| Upper Material | Leather and synthetic leather for durability and classic look |
| Cushioning System | Full-length encapsulated Air-Sole unit for comfort and support |
| Outsole Material | Solid rubber for durability and traction |
| Traction | Provides grip over varied surfaces |
| Intended Use | Training and workouts |
| Brand | Nike |
It’s early morning, and I’ve just laced up the Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV before heading out for a quick jog around the neighborhood. The moment I slip my feet into these shoes, I notice how solid the leather and synthetic leather upper feels—no flimsy parts here, just a sturdy, classic look that’s ready for anything.
The full-length encapsulated Air-Sole unit immediately catches my attention. Walking feels cushioned and smooth, almost like floating on a cloud.
It’s surprisingly supportive, especially for a shoe that doesn’t look overly bulky. Plus, the rubber sole grips well on different surfaces, giving me confidence whether I’m on pavement or a bit of gravel.
The design is straightforward but effective. The leather gives it a timeless vibe, while the synthetic accents keep it modern.
I appreciate the comfort during longer walks and even some light weightlifting. They’re not flashy, but they do the job well, and I can wear them casually or for workout sessions without feeling out of place.
They’re also quite durable. After a few weeks of regular use, the shoes still look fresh, and the sole hasn’t shown signs of excessive wear.
The price point of $60 feels fair considering the quality and support you get.
Overall, these shoes strike a good balance between comfort, durability, and style. They might not be the most high-tech, but for everyday workouts and casual wear, they’re dependable companions that won’t disappoint.
MANUEKLEAR Deadlift Shoes for Men and Women
- ✓ Ultra lightweight and sock-like fit
- ✓ Excellent support and stability
- ✓ Versatile for multiple activities
- ✕ Velcro may wear over time
- ✕ Slightly narrow fit for wide feet
| Weight | 217 grams |
| Upper Material | High-quality breathable mesh fabric |
| Sole Material | Sturdy rubber |
| Insole Support | Heel support pad for ankle stability |
| Closure System | Double nylon velcro straps |
| Additional Features | Lightweight, flexible, with 720° free roll and bionic technology |
As soon as I took the MANUEKLEAR Deadlift Shoes out of the box, I was struck by how incredibly lightweight they felt—just 217 grams, almost like wearing socks. The sleek design with a breathable mesh upper instantly caught my eye, promising both comfort and performance.
Putting them on was a breeze thanks to the double velcro straps. They hugged my feet snugly without feeling tight, and the heel support pad gave me a solid sense of stability.
I appreciated how quickly I could slip them off too, thanks to the easy fastening system.
During my lifts, I noticed how well they supported my ankles and distributed pressure evenly across the soles. The sturdy rubber sole provided excellent grip and abrasion resistance, making my workouts feel more secure.
I also liked the thick toe cap—it protected my toes while maintaining a soft, flexible feel.
The shoes didn’t just work great for deadlifts; I found myself using them for squats, cardio, and even hiking. The design seems versatile enough for many activities, which is a big plus.
Plus, the bionic technology and 720° free roll made movements feel natural and fluid.
Overall, these shoes blend comfort, safety, and flexibility beautifully. They stay cool and dry thanks to the breathable fabric, and the support feels reliable without sacrificing mobility.
For anyone serious about lifting or looking for a multi-purpose fitness shoe, this pair is a real game-changer.
Joomra Whitin Men’s Running Shoes Grey Size 8 Sneakers
- ✓ Lightweight and responsive
- ✓ Good traction and grip
- ✓ Comfortable fit
- ✕ Lacks excessive cushioning
- ✕ Not the most stylish
| Upper Material | Engineered knit fabric with protective patch |
| Midsole | Durable density foam for lightweight response and durability |
| Outsole | Rubber for reliable traction |
| Insole | Removable cushioned insole (inferred for comfort and support) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | Lower platform design for a natural running position |
| Closure System | Lace-up with padded collar for a custom fit |
After finally getting my hands on the Joomra Whitin men’s running shoes in grey, I was eager to see if they lived up to their promise. The first thing that caught my eye was the slightly structured engineered knit upper—lightweight but sturdy enough to catch my eye.
As I slipped them on, the padded collar gave a snug, comfy fit without feeling tight. The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, which I appreciated during my runs.
The special patch on the upper, designed to prevent lace tearing, actually works—no worries about fraying after a few uses.
The foam midsole is surprisingly responsive yet durable, making every step feel lightweight but firm. I noticed that the lower heel-to-toe drop encouraged a more natural running stance, which felt great on longer miles.
The rubber outsole delivered solid traction, even on slick surfaces.
For under $44, these sneakers offer a lot of value. They’re versatile enough for running, gym workouts, or even casual wear.
The level platform design supports a natural stride, and the overall build feels like it could handle consistent use without falling apart quickly.
Overall, these shoes balance comfort and performance well, especially if you want a lightweight option that doesn’t sacrifice durability. They’re not the flashiest, but they get the job done and look pretty good too.