
The first thing that comes to mind when you are thinking of making some free runs are the best parkour shoes.
Parkour is a deadly sport played worldwide by many people in which they show off their talents by running and jumping in very difficult scenarios.
In this article, we are going to discuss a lot about some of the best parkour shoes so that you are fully prepared to make the best out of your parkour abilities.
Parkour is not meant for everyone. If you are not capable of doing sheer hard work with dedication and passion, you simply cannot master the skill of parkour.
An important equipment in parkour is parkour shoe. Parkour shoes are specially made for people who want a firm grip on the different type of terrains.
They are made to provide comfort, relaxation, ability to absorb shocks from different jumps and most of all to provide a very firm grip as it is the most demanding quality in parkour.
Well, for parkour enthusiasts, we have decided to review some of the best parkour shoes to make the job of finding the perfect match more easy for you.
How We Choose Best Parkour Shoes?
Our criteria for picking up an ideal pair of parkour shoes is simple. We have compiled a list solely on proper research through testing, performance, durability, cushioning, a reasonable budget and most of all user ratings.
Your trust is our foremost priority and that’s why we are committed to our work in providing you the best parkour shoes.
Without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the best parkour shoes available in 2018 :
Contents
- List of Top 10 Best Parkour Shoes of 2019
- 1. Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81 – Fashion Sneaker
- 2. Vibram Men’s Kso Evo – Training Shoe
- 3. Evolv Men’s Cruzer – Approach Shoe
- 4. Nike Men’s Free Rn – Running Shoe
- 5. Nike Flex Experience RN 5 – Running Shoe
- 6. Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 2 – Trail Running Shoe
- 7. Skechers Sports Men’s Energy – After Burn Lace-Up Sneaker
- 8. Nike Men’s Flex 2016 – RN Running Shoe
- 9. Nike Men’s Dart – Best Running Shoe
- 10. Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 3 – Minimal Trail Running Shoe
- Complete Buyer’s Guide for Buying parkour shoes
List of Top 10 Best Parkour Shoes of 2019
![]() | Ultimate 81 (Editor’s Choice) | ||
![]() | KSO EVO (Editor’s Choice) | ||
![]() | CRUZER | ||
![]() | Free RN | ||
![]() | Experience RN5 | ||
![]() | Vapor Glove 2 | ||
![]() | Men's Energy | Sneaker | |
![]() | Flex 2016 | Running Shos | |
![]() | Dart | ||
![]() | Trail Glove 3 | Running Shoe |
1. Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81 – Fashion Sneaker

ONITSUKA Tiger Ultimate 81 tops the list of the best parkour shoes. The ONITSUKA Tiger has been the best brand for producing free running shoes. The Tiger Ultimate 81 is one of the best parkour shoes ever produced for parkour and free running.
The Tiger Ultimate 81 packs in it, an awesome design as well as efficiency. The lightweight build of this BEAST provides painless movements and the Cush-hole shock absorption system provide smooth landings on rough places. The back midsole features three ventilation holes that are placed right where the tension assemble the most. As a result, the shoe is able to reduce most of the energy during high jumps.
- Rigid construct, yet lightweight.
- Price is Low.
- Exquisite absorption.
- Solid Head Support.
- Light colors reduces with parkour.
- Doesn’t Support High Landings.
Bottom Line
ONITSUKA Tiger Ultimate 81 is one of the best sneakers specially meant for parkour players to provide them comfort and a lightweight feel so that they can perform different skills with ease and convenience. Go for it if you need a perfect pair of parkour shoe in a good price range.
2. Vibram Men’s Kso Evo – Training Shoe

VIBRAM KSO EVO aka the five-fingers has earned a place on the list of best parkour shoes. It is basically a cross trainer but can be used for both parkour and other exercises as well. This shoe features superb lightweight and man-made outsoles that makes it one of the unique free-running shoe. The combination of padding and materials of this BEAST allows you the ultimate experience of parkour.
is lightweight with a 2mm cushioning and EVA insoles that provides essential help to arch and heels. The shoe is also packed with Antimicrobial lining inside which prevents the feet from humidity, different infections, and sweat.The XS TREK technology has been used in VIBRAM KSO EVO cross trainers to make sure that it can be worn for free running as well as other exercises.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Durable.
- Stable.
- Provides Firm grip.
- Multiple Functions.
- Easy Fit and quick lacing.
- Sizes are not accurate.
- Price is High.
- Shock absorption is a bit lousy.
Bottom Line
Vibram Men’s KSO Evo are specially designed for pro parkour enthusiasts. They have got a very unique design and provide a firm traction on the ground with a feeling of comfort as well. The durability and stable operation will let you buy these shoes without any other thought.
3. Evolv Men’s Cruzer – Approach Shoe

The EVOLV CRUZER approach shoe is a casual but one of the perfect choices for many free runners out there. They are barefoot friendly which means you can wear them with or without socks working efficiently in both ways. These shoes are made up of a rigid canvas and rubber sole with a memory foam insole lined inside with micro-fiber.
The low profile and minimalist design give it a barefoot touch which is great as well as perfect for parkour. The most amazing feature is the heel pull tab which can be clipped to the backpack or any other harness. The huge black frontal safety is excellent to guard the toes and the shoes themselves, but it can be a little unattractive.
- Barefoot Friendly.
- Rigid Canvas.
- Rubber Sole.
- HEEL pull tab for clipping.
- Extra protection and support.
- Materials used are cheap.
- Doesn’t support high jumps.
- Quality is bad.
Bottom Line
If you want to experience barefoot feeling while performing different parkour skills then EVOLV Men’s Cruzer is an ideal choice for you. The cheap parkour shoes have got so many qualities and that’s why they are popular among many parkour professionals. Go for it if you are looking for an ideal parkour shoe in an affordable range.
4. Nike Men’s Free Rn – Running Shoe

Take your parkour and free running to new heights by using Nike Men’s Free RN running shoes. Nike is one of the famous brands that produces high quality parkour shoes and NIKE FREE RN SHOE is one of them. The Nike RN are more flexible and has full cushioning around the shoe that provides comfort as well as shock absorption.
The outsole is able to broaden more commonly in different directions making sure that the runner moves freely to anywhere he wants.The shoe is ultra lightweight providing a rigid and firm grip over rough places that makes the parkour more easy.They are well designed for people who are professionally in parkour.
- Superbly natural fit.
- Excellent breathability.
- Versatile Design.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Comfortable.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Price is very high.
- Lacing is not good.
- Sole opening is insecure.
- Small toe Box.
Bottom Line
As everyone knows that how much a NIKE shoe can provide in gripping and comfort. That’s why Nike Men’s Free RN shoes are on our list. The stylish parkour shoes are perfect for parkour professionals to show off their skills. Go for them if you need perfect parkour shoes in a good price range.
5. Nike Flex Experience RN 5 – Running Shoe

Another pair of parkour shoes that have got the free runners’ attraction is the brand new NIKE flex RN 5 running shoe. Yeah you heard it right , Nike RN 5 is one of the most versatile parkour shoes for activities like high jumping and free running. The shoe is very soft and flexible with advanced flexible grooves.
This pair of parkour shoes are very lightweight which do not put pressure on the foot and provides comfort as well as a firm grip. NIKE RN 5 has a very good breathability structure which allows the circulation of air in the shoe and as a result feet remains dry and sweat free.This pair of shoes is very well cushioned which gives you a feel of great comfort during parkour.
- Ultra Lightweight.
- Provides great comfort.
- Durable and long lasting.
- good breathability structure
- Great for muscle relaxation.
- cushions are a bit thin.
- soles are of bad quality.
Bottom Line
Nike Flex Experience RN 5 is another versatile pair of parkour shoes specially meant for professionals and parkour enthusiasts. They have got a perfect grip with a high shock absorbing ability as well. Must buy them if you need a durable and stable pair of shoes in a perfect price range.
6. Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 2 – Trail Running Shoe

Merrell Vapor Glove 2 is also a stylish versatile and distinct parkour shoes available out there for Free runners. This pair of shoe has just about everything you need to run freely, jump higher, climb fast and land smooth.
The Merrell Vapor Glove 2 is designed specifically for a complete barefoot experience. This means you can wear it without socks and they can work wonders for you. With almost 0mm cushioning and 0 mm heel-to-toe drop you won’t even realize that you are wearing them.
The Vapor 2 provides you to perform different activities with more speed and motion. The TPU and mesh flexibility makes it easier to run and climb with excellent comfort.The rubber outsole is there to provide you firm grip over rough surfaces and makes the parkour experience even more enjoyable.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Minimalist Design.
- Barefoot experience.
- Supports multiple areas.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Provides strength and firm grip.
- Not much color choices available.
- Price is more than average.
- Arch support is not good.
Bottom Line
Merrell Vapor Gloves 2 are versatile parkour shoes with amazing features. These shoes will provide you with a lightweight and comfortable feel so that you can perform different skills easily. Go for it if you need a stylish pair of best parkour shoes at an affordable rate.
7. Skechers Sports Men’s Energy – After Burn Lace-Up Sneaker

Love doing free running and different athletic activities but can’t stand the feeling of feet hurting? Don’t worry the SKECHERS Sports Afterburn Lace-up Sneaker is there for you.
These shoes are packed with Super-energy after burn system giving your feet the due comfort while performing different activities. This shoe is made up with super cool leather upper and features a padded heel for extra shock absorption during high jumps.
The cushioned midsole provides extra comfort to the feet all day along.The rubber outsole is designed specifically for a sound and firm grip on rough and smooth places.The shoes are overall very comfortable and can be used for different activities, let it be hiking, free running or climbing a mountain.
- More comfortable.
- Padded heel for shock absorption.
- Durable.
- Features leather.
- Can be used for different activities.
- They are heavy .
- Design is not much stylish.
- The width is not wide.
Bottom Line
SKECHERS Sports Men’s Energy is sneakers specially made to avoid feet hurting. They come with a great shock absorbing ability and with high quality cushioning so as to provide you with all necessary features your feet will need to remain comfortable. Buy them in order to keep your feet safe from injuries or accidents.
8. Nike Men’s Flex 2016 – RN Running Shoe

There would be hardly any NIKE shoe that could not support free running. Another addition to the top list of best parkour shoes is NIKE Men’s Flex 2016 RN Running Shoe. The Looks in the Flex RN are exactly what you should be looking for in a parkour shoe.
A precise outsole in RN 2016 provides much more flexibility to increase each jump and bearing. Rubber technology at heel and toe maintains the traction and offers balance during running or parkour.
The tripod outsole system is specifically introduced in this pair of shoe to provide more flexibility in the most consistent way. The Flex RN has a PHYLON midsole in it which helps you to run and jump as hard as you want. They come in a very unique and fashionable design and as usual, NIKE doesn’t disappoint with any brand they introduce to the market.
- Fly-wire technology for a safe fit.
- Fashionable Design.
- Reasonable price.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Increased Durability.
- Not ideal for trail-like surfaces.
- Sizes are small
- Quality is a bit lousy.
Bottom Line
NIKE Men’s Flex 2016 is a versatile shoe that is capable of adjusting almost any feet size easily. Go for them if you need short-budget parkour shoes with a sleek design and all essential features that will help you in keeping the feet safe and protected from injuries.
9. Nike Men’s Dart – Best Running Shoe

Nike has once again combined all the necessary features required for parkour in its Dart Running Shoe. The whole shoe is designed keeping the lightweight, comfort, design and firm grip in mind.
The supportive technology in Nike Dart makes it very easy to run faster without any worry of discomfort. You don’t have to face any obstacles while wearing Dart shoes. Jump higher and run faster than ever with the help of these versatile shoes.
It comes with a molded midfoot saddle for lightweight providing more comfort to feet as compared to other parkour shoes.The rubber sole provides extraordinary grip on rough and slippery places so you don’t have to be worried about the injuries during free running.
- Ultra Lightweight.
- Provides firm grip.
- Synthetic and mesh.
- Minimalist Design.
- Stylish Design.
- They are a little tight for wide feet.
- Inner Materials are hard.
- Become lousy after 3 to 4 months use.
Bottom Line
If you want to step up your game in parkour by performing different skills without any fear then the best pair of shoes you have got in this regard is the brand new Nike Men’s Dart shoes. These shoes will keep your feet comfortable and relaxed for a longer period of time.
10. Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 3 – Minimal Trail Running Shoe

Merrell Trail Glove 3 is also one of the famous parkour shoes produced by Merrell. Made up of textile and synthetic rubber sole, this pair of the shoe provides everything necessary for doing different activities including parkour.
The Shoe comes with Trail-Protect insole which provides great comfort and is shock absorptive during high jumps. The VIBRAM outsole provides rigid support and the firm grip over the smooth surfaces so that you can enjoy limitless free running.
The Long Lasting M select fresh keeps your feet safe from any kind of sweat and microbial infections. Your feet remain fresh and safe while wearing the Trail Glove 3.Lug patterns in Merrell Trail Glove 3 are there to provide stability to your feet during climbing, running and high jumping.
- Vegan-Friendly.
- VIBRAM outsole.
- Ultra lightweight.
- Keeps the feet fresh.
- Lug patterns for stability.
- Durable and Long Lasting.
- They have break in period.
- Mesh can break easily.
- Not suitable for bare foot.
Bottom Line
Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 3 are shoes with a better build quality and a sleek design. These shoes will not only help you in having a firm grip but they will also allow your feet to be comfortable and relaxes so that you can make runs and show off different skills without any fear.
Our Best choice for parkour and free running is VIBRAM Men’s KSO EVO Cross Training Shoes. This shoe works as a BEAST for free runners and also it takes care of the feet very well as compared to other parkour shoes.
In short, Go for it if you want to experience endless parkour without any fear of injury. Parkour is a great activity and it keeps the body fresh, agile and energized and shoes are one of the most important equipment in it.
So we hope you find the BEST product from our list that fits your feet and gives your money the due worth.
Complete Buyer’s Guide for Buying parkour shoes
Parkour is a sport in which a parkour shoe has a great importance. You are literally making all moves through your feet and what if the feet are not being comfortable in a shoe or what if the shoes you are wearing doesn’t have proper grip? What will happen? You won’t be able to do parkour very easily.
So, choosing the best parkour shoe is a very important aspect. because of the availability of many brands, people are becoming confused about choosing a perfect pair of parkour shoes.
For this purpose, we have decided to write down a buying guide consisting of all the necessary knowledge you need to gain about parkour shoes.
Without further ado, let’s jump right into the main topic.
What are Parkour Shoes?
Parkour shoes are surely different from casual shoes you wear in daily routine. They are specially made for people who are doing parkour for a longer period of time. They have got a high build quality, durability, reliability, perfect grip, and shock absorbing ability.
These shoes keep the feet comfortable in worst case scenarios easily. They can also reduce the amount of shock during jumping so that an athlete can easily make his jumps or any other skills.
Why You Need Parkour Shoes?
As we have discussed earlier, without a good pair of parkour shoes, you cannot do parkour. This is as simple as that. if you haven’t got a best pair of parkour shoes, then your feet are at a greater risk to get injured or hurt and in a worst case scenario, you will end up breaking your legs with a serious injury if you are not wearing parkour shoes.
Parkour shoes provide the due comfort, perfect grip, and most of all they come with shock absorbing ability. All these features help your feet to be as fresh as possible to take out all challenges easily.
So, that’s why parkour shoes are a need of every professional athlete in order to complete different tasks easily.
How to Choose Best Parkour Shoes?
Certain important factors to take note of before choosing or selecting a parkour shoe are as follows
Cushioning
parkour shoes come with a low cushioning layer so that you can feel the ground and it is also important for a barefoot experience. So, what you can do is try to buy a parkour shoe that comes with a thin layer of cushioning.
However, you should also keep the track of your comfort level because if you are not comfortable by thin cushioning, then you must go for a parkour shoe with moderate cushioning.
Sensitivity
Another important factor to consider before choosing parkour shoes is sensitivity. The best parkour shoe must have a greater sensitivity to the ground so that you can easily perform different skills.
Durability
Parkour shoes without a durable construction are just a waste of money. What’s the point of buying shoes that won’t last extreme conditions for a longer period of time? It can only make you regret the money you have spent on some down quality shoes.
So, always look for a popular brand such as NIKE, EVOLV, or Merrell parkour shoes as they have got a durable construction with high-quality materials and they can easily work for a longer period of time.
However, they are a bit pricey but anyone will pay extra money over the quality of the shoe.
Comfort
Comfort is yet another important factor because without proper comforting ability, your feet will prone to some serious injuries and the muscles of your feet will frequently get injured while you are performing different skills.
So, it is important to check out the comfort level of a parkour shoe as you are choosing one. Select a soft parkour shoe as they are more comfortable and will keep your feet protected and safe from any kind of injuries.
Things to be considered before buying parkour shoes
1. Grip
The most important thing to consider in a parkour shoe is its grip. If you chose a shoe that has a slippery grip, you will not be able to improve or may injure yourself. So go for the one that provides a great grip and do not slip in any condition.
2. Sole
While choosing a parkour shoe you must make sure that the sole of the shoe is thin. Thin soles provide more sensitivity as compared to hard ones. Thinner soles provide vital balance which is probably the most important aspect in parkour. So look out for the shoes having a thinner sole to enjoy the limitless free running without any worries.
3. Budget
Parkour shoes comes in different prices . You should consider the shoe pair according to your budget. Mostly the shoes with many great features are a bit pricey but you must find out the best one having a good price. So buy shoe that give worth to your hard earned money.
HAVE A NICE DAY AHEAD.
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