Tonight ChatGPT and I were having a riveting talk about shoe types and shoe sales 😂 If you cross train, you KNOW the struggle. I can’t run in lifters and J can’t lift in runners. 🏃🏼♀️
And it seems the more I run, the QUICKER I cycle through road running shoes!😩 I found out tonight my fav brand - cloud ON (most versatile with still having good shock absorption) started a subscription service for shoes? So I’ll pay 30$ a month, after 6 months I return the dirty shoes for a new pair instead of buying a new one. We’ll see how that goes. Kinda seems idiotic to lease shoes but hey, knowing me they’ll be torn up in two months time 😀
ANYWAYS… this post is all about shoe types for cross training, and the concurrent Black Friday sales 😎
The shoes you wear don’t really matter, as long as you’re comfortable. But of course, some shoes perform better with certain movements.
I also have banned myself from wearing white shoes outside or in outdoor gyms. Black for the nitty gritty and white for the fancy Pilates studio or something 😂😂
If you’ve ever wondered why some workouts feel effortless and others feel off…
look down.
Your shoes matter more than you think — especially when you train on the road.
Here’s the simple FlyStrong breakdown:
1️⃣ Running Shoes (High Cushion)
Think: HOKA, Brooks, On Cloudmonster
Best for: Travel days, long walks, easy runs, recovery sessions
Why: Maximum cushioning = minimum joint load
Not ideal for: Heavy lifts — too “mushy” under load
2️⃣ Cross-Training Shoes (Low Drop + Stable Base)
Think: Nike Metcon, RAD One, Inov-8, Reebok Nano
Best for: Lifting, CrossFit, hotel-gym workouts, functional training
Why: Flat & stable platform = better power transfer
Not ideal for: Long-distance running or high-mileage days
3️⃣ Minimalist Shoes (Barefoot Style)
Think: Xero, Vivobarefoot, Merrell Trail Glove
Best for: Foot strength, mobility, balance work, accessory days
Why: Zero drop + natural movement
Not ideal: If you’re new to training or need impact protection
4️⃣ Hybrid Training Shoes (Soft + Stable)
Think: On Cloud X 4, Nike Free Metcon, RAD One V2
Best for: Athletes who want one shoe for everything
Why: Cushion + stability = perfect for travel + training
Not ideal for: Max lifts (but great for 90% of workouts)
🔥
Best Black Friday Sales Happening Now
If you’re refreshing your shoe lineup, these deals are worth it:
- Nike: Up to 50% off Metcons & Free Metcons
- Reebok: Nanos as low as $79
- INOV-8: Many training models 30–40% off
- HOKA: Clifton & Bondi models under $100 at some retailers
- adidas: Tons of basic trainers under $40 (I just got some for 35!)
- New Balance: Fresh Foam + stability shoes 30–50% off
*RAV 50% - niche brand targeting “all rounder” CrossFit shoes with unique designs
*CLOUD ON - my favorite, had 50% and 90$ or less shoes. They’re all sold out and I’m waiting for cyber Monday !!
FLYSTRONG TAKEAWAY
Stop trying to find one “perfect” shoe.
Instead, pick the shoe that matches the stress of the day:
- Travel day: cushioned runner
- Lift day: stable trainer
- Mixed workout: hybrid
- Mobility / accessory day: minimalist
Match the tool to the job. The way you want 😊😊