I'm trying to get fit again and am in need of a pair of cross trainers for fitness. I read (somewhere), that running shoes aren't good for activities that involve lateral movement, and that cross trainers are better. I'll be participating in some (light) jogging (not too long distances), skipping, gym work (some weight training). I have a preference for Nike, but tbh I'll pay for any brand, as long as it's good. Thanks in advance.

It doesn't really work like that, it depends on your gait/running style/pronation etc. Go to Runners Need or Run and Become or something similar - they put you on a treadmill and will recommend (I assume cross trainers as well as running).

Having said that, I rate Asics the best in general, then Saucony and Nike.

I have worked in up and running for a friend for past 4 years occasionally as he owns a couple of shops.

If you are doing lateral work then as you say - running shoes do not tend to give the necessary ankle support as they are designed for forward action only.

The dilemma in a gym is that multi function activity ie weights and tread mill demand different things.

I decent hybrid trainer that has some cushioning will probably suffice for 20 minutes of running dependent on an individuals size etc (ie if very large then as much cushioning as possible would be ideal for the running element. Likewise - having your gait analysed to assess if neutral / supernator or over pronator is helpful but really will only impact after a couple of miles running so a suitable neutral pair for minor indoor running should do.

As for make and model of shoe then it really cant be based around anothers recommendation - all feet shapes are different and the toe box / arch etc vary from brand to brand so a running shop would give you the best chance of measuring up.

If you aim for a pair that have at least some fore foot cushioning then great - as mentioned a hybrid may be your best choice - (ie off roader). It would provide more ankle support with some cushioning. Most brands do one or two varieties. ie Saucony grizzly etc Asics and Nike both have types

I personally hate Reebok but dont let me put you off

Wenger and Rice?

So basically there is no "one size fits all" for running/cross trainers, and I should go to a specialist shoe shop? Thanks for that, I'll check out the shops you mentioned hancockjr.