IDEAS & ADVICE

The best trainers for different activities

Did you know that choosing the right trainers for running, hiking or heading to the gym can have a significant impact on your health and comfort? Discover the best sports shoes for different activities, from high-performance running trainers to supportive trainers for weightlifting and waterproof walking shoes. 

At Next, we stock gym trainers from all the top sportswear brands, including Nike, Adidas, Reebok, New Balance and Skechers. Whatever your budget or style preference, we’ve got plenty of options you’ll love! Our guide to buying trainers and sports shoes is designed to help you find the perfect pair, however you like to work out.

Why are sports shoes important?

Investing in a high-quality pair of sports shoes can boost your performance, increase comfort and prevent injuries. If you’ve been using one pair of trainers for different activities, this guide is for you! 

While having multiple pairs of trainers might seem excessive, wearing suitable sports shoes for different activities is essential. For example, most running trainers have additional support, cushioning or shock absorbers to protect your joints from the impact with the ground. 

However, running trainers aren’t ideal for hiking, as they’re designed to be worn on pavements, treadmills, and other flat surfaces. If you’re walking on uneven terrain, you’ll need extra ankle support from specialist walking shoes. 

Size and fit are also important considerations when buying sports shoes, so you’ll find helpful size guides throughout our collection of women’s trainers and men’s trainers. Sizes can differ between brands; for example, if you’ve got a pair of Nike sports shoes, you might find Adidas sports shoes fit differently. 

Lastly, always try on new trainers before taking them for their first outing to make sure they fit because nobody wants blisters halfway through a run or workout class!

Explore our trainers collection

Our trainers collection features the latest styles and innovative technologies from world-class brands. We’re guiding you through the best sports shoes for running, weight lifting, walking, workout classes and the gym. When it’s time to upgrade your old trainers, we’ve got you covered!

Trainers for running

Running is a high-impact sport, taking its toll on your joints over time. So, with the right running shoes, you can protect your feet, ankles, knees, hips and spine from pain or injury. When you’re equipped with proper running shoes, it makes going for a run even more enjoyable!

Choose a style with an elevated heel and cushioned sole to minimise the impact on your joints. Running trainers with ankle support are also available if you need a little extra protection!

Our collection includes women’s running shoes and running trainers for men from the best footwear brands. Shop high-performance running trainers to suit any budget, style and ability, whether you’re just starting your running journey or you’ve clocked up hundreds of miles already!

Walking shoes

Discover women’s outdoor trainers, men’s walking shoes, boots and trail running shoes. Going hiking? A great pair of walking shoes are a must-have, providing stability on uneven ground. Trail running shoes are designed to protect your joints from impact, like regular running trainers, but have additional grip and support. 

Most outdoor sports shoes are made from waterproof material, keeping your feet dry in all weathers and making them easy to clean after muddy walks!

Gym trainers

Planning to incorporate weightlifting into your gym routine? In that case, you may not need specialist weightlifting shoes, as most gym trainers are designed with multiple exercises in mind. 

Training shoes allow a wider range of movement than running shoes, making them ideal for the gym. You can use them for weightlifting, strength training, short-distance running on the treadmill or high-intensity cardio workouts. 

Workout class trainers

Gym shoes or training shoes are the best all-rounders for workout classes, whether you’re doing HIIT, weightlifting or spin classes. Choose a pair with an elevated heel and extra cushioning through the sole for maximum comfort, whatever workout class you’re doing. 

Looking to expand your sportswear wardrobe? At Next, we stock gym trainers from all the top sportswear brands, including Nike, Adidas, Reebok, New Balance and Skechers. Whatever your budget or style preference, we’ve got plenty of options you’ll love! Our guide to buying trainers and sports shoes is designed to help you find the perfect pair, however you like to work out. Read our Guide to essential gym accessories or discover How to choose the perfect sports bra.