When you own a pair of Air Max shoes, it’s only natural that you would want to wear them everywhere. Does that include the gym, too? Can you wear Nike Air Max to the gym?
You can wear Nike Air Max to the gym for warming up or for short runs. However, these shoes are not good for lifting because they have a lot of cushioning that doesn’t provide a solid footing. Air Max shoes are not good for intense running either. Over time, the shoes get heavy, tiresome, and uncomfortable.
This article covers the pros and cons of wearing Air Max shoes to the gym. Plus, stick to the end to find some alternatives you may want to consider.
Are Air Max Good for Lifting?
The Air Max shouldn’t be your go-to choice of footwear if your exercises involve lifting or squatting. These are the reasons why.
Too Much Cushioning
Air Max shoes are not good for lifting because they have a lot of cushioning. Weightlifters need flat shoes with little cushioning because they can push off the ground with stability and balance. This is why a lot of lifters wear Converse to the gym. Air Max don’t offer that. Models like the Air Max 270 won’t keep you grounded to lift the weight in a consistent posture.
An Air Max 270 owner had the following to say.
“Definitely bad for any lifting where you need foot stability and leg days. Also not great for running because it’s wonky under foot.”
Another person quoted said, “Any shoe that has air, gel, or any type of excessive padding is a bad weight lifting shoe.”
Potential Damage
Sneakers like the Air Max 270 or 97 are expensive, so why risk breaking or popping them under weight or pressure? Besides lifting, these shoes are not suitable for squatting either. Consider buying actual weightlifting shoes or alternatives before permanently messing up your stylish Air Max shoes.
Only Good for Specific Work Out
Air Max are not good for lifting or squatting, but they perform well in other areas. Here are a few good examples:
- The Air Max 90 is an excellent warm-up shoe. These shoes come with a foam midsole that provides fantastic cushioning with great impact protection. You can use it at the gym or outside to warm up before exercising.
- Then, there’s the Air Max 95, which has been an outstanding pair of training sneakers for short runs. These shoes come with a one-piece mesh upper that guarantees breathability, cushioning, and smoothness. Use this version of the Nike Air Max shoes if you want to take brief runs.
Alternative: Get your Air Max off, and lift weight wearing only your socks or even barefoot. Some gyms may allow you to work out without shoes, but it depends on their dress code. If it’s an option, don’t risk the integrity of your shoes and exercise without them.
Can You Run in Air Max Sneakers?
As mentioned before, Air Max sneakers are good for warming up or short runs, but they’re not good for intense runners. This line of sneakers is not comfortable for running, as they get heavier and tiring over time.
As a result, your legs will hurt, you won’t be running correctly, and eventually, you’ll just lose interest because it isn’t worth it.
“It’s not comfortable to run with Air Max sneakers. You won’t be able to run correctly with Air Max, and that’s the reason why your legs will hurt,” said a person when asked about their experience running with these shoes.
Another person also chimed in, saying that “Air Max are okay for short runs, but not the greatest. You won’t see top marathon runners wearing them during races.”
So, yeah. For style points and showing off? The Air Max shoes are for you. When it comes to running, you may want to consider other options first.
Are Nike Air Max Shoes Suitable for Wearing to the Gym?
Nike Air Max shoes are widely used for various athletic activities, including workouts at the gym. With their cushioning and support, they ensure comfort and stability during exercises. However, when it comes to what to wear, it’s best to opt for appropriate workout attire like breathable fabrics and avoid distractions such as wearing tank tops at the gym.
What Shoes for the Gym Should You Use Instead?
After establishing that Air Max are not suitable for working out, the question now arises: what shoes should you wear instead? Truthfully, there are countless options out there. However, these four have consistently delivered a solid performance for gym-goers.
Best for Weightlifting: Adidas Powerlift 4
These shoes provide a narrow fit and come specifically designed to support weightlifting and squatting. The Adidas Powerlift 4 have a mid-sole wedge and a low heel of 1.1 inches to keep your legs and body aligned during those types of exercises.
Best for Running: Hoka One One Clifton Edge
Though not as popular as the Air Max, these shoes feature a soft and balanced foam body and a padded collar for optimal ankle support. The footbed is also responsive, making the Hoka One One Edge a good pair of shoes for casual and intense runners.
Best for Cross-Training: Nike Metcon 6
Wear these shoes if your workout routines involve CrossFit, circuit breakers, or HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training). The Metcon 6 from Nike are flexible but firm, providing you with a sturdy base that adapts to the surroundings. Plus, the shoes have a breathable fabric to maintain proper airflow.
Best Overall: Reebok Nano X
These shoes are everything you can expect from proper “fitness shoes.” They have a soft and durable body, which is responsive under different exercises. Other features to love from these shoes are the cushioned insole and the high-density foam ankle.
Conclusion
Can you wear Nike Air Max to the gym? Yes, but only if you’re doing short runs or warming up. After an in-depth review, it’s clear that you should avoid wearing your Air Max while working out. Put simply, other shoes are far more capable of supporting you during different exercises.
