When it comes to high-intensity workouts like CrossFit, having the right shoes can make a massive difference. From explosive box jumps to heavy deadlifts, your footwear needs to offer support, stability, flexibility, and grip—all in one. In this in-depth review, we put some of the most popular CrossFit shoes through their paces to see how they truly perform in real-world workouts. Here’s how they stack up.
What We Tested For
To evaluate the best CrossFit shoes, we focused on several critical performance factors:
- Stability for weightlifting
- Cushioning and comfort
- Durability under high-stress movements
- Grip and traction
- Breathability
- Overall versatility across varied WODs
1. Nike Metcon 9
Best For: All-around performance and lifting
Rating: ★★★★★
Nike’s flagship CrossFit shoe continues to lead the pack. The Metcon 9 builds on its predecessors with an updated upper, a wider heel for more lifting stability, and improved rope wrap zones.
Pros:
- Stable heel with excellent lift support
- Outstanding grip for rope climbs
- Breathable mesh and secure fit
Cons:
- Slightly stiff for running portions
Verdict: A powerhouse for serious athletes who lift heavy and move fast.
2. Reebok Nano X4
Best For: Comfort and versatility
Rating: ★★★★☆
Reebok’s Nano X4 is lighter than previous versions and offers improved flex in the forefoot, making it a great option for hybrid WODs. It features Floatride Energy Foam and Flexweave for responsive cushioning.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Solid grip for multidirectional movement
Cons:
- Slightly less stable than the Nano X3 under heavy lifts
Verdict: A top-tier pick for athletes who want comfort with performance.
3. NOBULL Trainer+
Best For: Durability and style
Rating: ★★★★☆
Known for its minimalist design, the NOBULL Trainer+ is tough, stylish, and built to last. The SuperFabric upper resists abrasion, while the wider sole adds stability for lifts.
Pros:
- Rugged and durable construction
- Stable base for strength training
- Sleek aesthetic
Cons:
- Break-in period required
- Less cushioning for running
Verdict: Ideal for hardcore WODs and heavy lifters who want long-term wear.
4. Under Armour TriBase Reign 5
Best For: Ground contact and agility
Rating: ★★★★☆
Under Armour continues to improve its training lineup with the Reign 5. It offers one of the most stable bases thanks to its TriBase technology, making it great for agility drills and lifts alike.
Pros:
- Excellent floor feel
- Great grip for plyometrics
- Reinforced heel for stability
Cons:
- Slightly narrow for wide feet
Verdict: A strong competitor with fantastic control and ground feedback.
5. Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
Best For: Advanced CrossFitters needing flexibility and grip
Rating: ★★★★☆
Inov-8’s F-Lite G 300 blends graphene-infused grip with a flexible knit upper. It’s ideal for workouts involving lateral movement, rope climbs, and high-impact elements.
Pros:
- Excellent grip and flex
- Comfortable and adaptive fit
- Lightweight for its build
Cons:
- Not ideal for very heavy lifts
Verdict: A high-tech option for nimble, mobile workouts.
6. Puma Fuse 2.0
Best For: Budget-friendly performance
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Puma’s Fuse 2.0 surprised testers with its solid base, wide toe box, and performance-ready build—especially at a lower price point.
Pros:
- Stable and wide heel
- Affordable price
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Not as breathable
- Less flexible for running
Verdict: A great value option that punches above its weight.
Final Rankings
| Rank | Shoe Model | Best Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nike Metcon 9 | All-around performance | ★★★★★ |
| 2 | Reebok Nano X4 | Comfort + versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| 3 | NOBULL Trainer+ | Durability + style | ★★★★☆ |
| 4 | UA TriBase Reign 5 | Ground connection | ★★★★☆ |
| 5 | Inov-8 F-Lite G 300 | Agility + grip | ★★★★☆ |
| 6 | Puma Fuse 2.0 | Budget performance | ★★★☆☆ |
Final Verdict
While the Nike Metcon 9 remains the gold standard for performance and reliability, there’s a CrossFit shoe for every type of athlete. Whether you’re focused on agility, strength, or value, each option tested here brings something unique to the gym floor. Choose based on your specific needs and training style—and your feet will thank you during every WOD.