The 6 Best CrossFit Shoes: Our Top Picks and Expert Reviews

Whether you’re a serious CrossFit athlete or you do recreational lifting, you need to be equipped with the right supportive shoe that can handle a wide range of activities, from deadlifts and explosive box jumps to climbing ropes and 400m dashes.

Wearing the proper shoes for WODs can also help you avoid injuries as your regular shoe may not provide the necessary support. Although they may be comfortable for cardio, running shoes with soft soles do not offer a stable base for heavy lifts and squats. Conversely, weightlifting shoes without responsiveness lack the power and propulsion required for more of a dynamic spectrum of exercises.

Finding the perfect pair of shoes that can meet all these demands can be challenging. Therefore, before you invest in a pair of multi-purpose solid shoes, our experts at BoxLife tested the latest weightlifting shoes on the market to help you find the best options for crushing your next WOD.

In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks

Why You Should Trust Us

At BoxLife, our team depends on the expertise of fitness and wellness professionals, including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. We utilize their knowledge and experience to ensure that the workout shoes we list meet the highest standards.

Our team has spent countless hours researching and evaluating weightlifting shoes to come up with the ultimate list of shoe reviews for our readers. We value customer satisfaction and therefore, only feature cross-training shoes that have received high ratings.

Who Is This Guide For?

If you’re interested in CrossFit or other types of high-intensity training and are looking for high-quality and durable workout shoes that can handle a variety of activities such as weightlifting, running, jumping, and climbing, we’ve got you! This guide can be of great help to:

• CrossFit athletes who need high-quality, durable shoes to handle various exercises such as weightlifting, running, jumping, and climbing.
• Fitness enthusiasts who are looking to try CrossFit or incorporate CrossFit-style workouts into their training regimen.
• Gym-goers who participate in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and other similar workouts.
• Individuals who have had injuries or are prone to injuries and need proper footwear to prevent them.
• Coaches and trainers who work with CrossFit athletes and need to recommend appropriate shoes for their clients.
• Anyone who is in the market for new workout shoes and wants to invest in a high-quality, durable pair that can withstand a variety of lifts and exercises.

How We Picked the Best Products?

A versatile training shoe should strike a balance between multiple qualities to be considered a good shoe option. Comfort, agility, support, flexibility, firmness, lightness, and durability are some of the key factors to consider. True CrossFit shoes should provide rock-solid stability for heavy lifts, responsiveness for explosive movements, and reliable grip for landings and sudden stops. 

As with any CrossFit athlete, the shoe should be tough enough to endure heavy usage and rough handling.

How We Compared Each Product

Choosing the best CrossFit shoes on this list involved taking into account several factors such as durability, cushioning, breathability, drop, width, weight, fit, and price. Nevertheless, keep in mind that what may work for individuals with wide feet may not be suitable for those with narrow feet. We had several people try out various shoes to make a list of the best CrossFit shoes to step up your fitness game.

The Best Crossfit Shoes to Buy in 2023

Even though CrossFit is known for its intensity, it is a sport that’s very popular among people of all sizes, shapes, and fitness levels. If you’re preparing for a WOD (workout of the day), then you’ll want to consider getting the best CrossFit shoes available on the market in 2023.

CrossFit athletes know that every day is different. This sport demands a lot from both you and your shoes. With a variety of activities such as heavy lifting, weightlifting, gymnastics, distance running, and more, it’s no wonder that finding the perfect CrossFit shoes can be a daunting task.

We have researched and tested the most sought-after CrossFit shoes on the market. These trainers will enable you to run, jump, lift, row, ride, climb, carry, and even express your frustration in. After much sweat, we proudly present our list of the best CrossFit shoes for 2023.

Reebok Nano X2 – Our Top Pick

Looking for a cross trainer with top-notch performance and a bit of Dad style shoes? Look no further than the Reebok Nano X2. As the first company to create specific CrossFit shoes, Reebok has had over a decade to perfect its Nano line. The Nano X2, now in its 12th iteration, feels like a shoe that’s been a long time in the making.

With its excellent balance between cushioning and stability, the Nano X2 feels equally great when doing box jumps or hitting a clean personal record. While previous versions of the Nano were known for their stability, some users complained that the toe boxes were too narrow and that the firm stability platform sacrificed a layer of comfort during non-weighted movements, particularly cardio workouts longer than short runs.

The X2 has addressed these complaints with raised support on the heel cup, which doesn’t sacrifice stability. The rubber sole rises halfway up the body of the shoe, providing lateral stability and directing force from a leg drive straight to the floor, rather than out to either side.

However, the X2 still has a narrow toe box that may not be suitable for those with wide feet. The solid and stable base and heel make this supportive shoe great for lifting, jumping, and climbing, but those looking for trainers for more running-based WODs may prefer a different shoe option. While the X2’s heel is less bulky than the Metcon 7, it’s still fairly clunky, and the shoe’s overall material can be felt while running, jumping, and sprinting.

Crossfitters with medium-volume feet who lean toward lifting-based WODs will appreciate this shoe’s performance, but those who value a lighter and wider shoe may want to consider another shoe option.

Specs

Drop:	7mm
Width:	Medium
Weight:	10.2oz
Price:	$130

Who It’s Best For

The Reebok Nano X2 shoes are best for individuals who prioritize performance and want a versatile and durable shoe that can handle a variety of high-intensity exercises. They’re ideal for athletes who are looking for one shoe for every workout. The Reebok Nano X2 is priced at $130, making it a mid-range option for CrossFit shoes.

Nike Metcon 7 – Best Everyday Shoe

The Metcon line of shoes from Nike is perhaps the most famous in the CrossFit world, praised for its spacious toebox, comfortable heel cushioning, and sleek design. Many athletes even use their Metcons as their regular shoes because of their versatility.

Over the years, Nike has continued to refine the Metcon line based on feedback from athletes, resulting in a shoe that is both comfortable and tailor-made for CrossFit. One of the most notable features is the rope guard, which wraps around the upper to provide traction and protection, offering the utmost durability for rope climbing. However, some testers found that the guard on the Nike Metcon 7, the latest version priced at $130, was not as grippy as that of other shoes, such as the Inov8 F-lite 260.

The Nike Metcon 7 also boasts a velcro lock-down lace keeper to prevent the laces from coming undone during workouts, though it can be a hindrance during running and jumping rope. The shoe’s midfoot and heel are stable and supportive, while the perforated mesh upper promotes ventilation. The hard plastic heel point is a standout feature, particularly for exercises like handstand pushups, although it does contribute to the shoe’s somewhat bulky feel.

Compared to the Reebok Nanox2 and Inov8 F-lite 260, the Metcon 7 is a wider shoe, although those who prefer even more space may want to consider shoes like the Inov8 Bare Xf 210 or the New Balance Minimus. The Metcon 7 excels during run WODs, with its springy heel cushioning on runs and flexible forefoot providing excellent rebound and a smooth stride.

Specs

Drop:	4mm
Width:	Medium
Weight:	10oz
Price:	$130

Who It’s Best For

The Nike Metcon is an excellent shoe option for CrossFit lovers who are looking for versatility, comfort, and style. It is particularly suitable for crossfitters who enjoy running, have medium-sized feet, and want a shoe that can transition from the gym to everyday wear.

Rogue/Do-Win Classic Lifters – Best Lifters

The Do-Win Classic Lifter ($130) is nearly identical to the classic lifters that were once offered by Pendlay/Do-Win. These shoes have been updated with new materials and colorways but still provide almost the same level of performance as the original. They offer great value for anyone just starting weightlifting or those who are still unsure.

This classic lifter has a stacked leather heel and TPU rigid sole that provides excellent grip and stability on lifts. The two midfoot straps with hook and loop closure function perfectly by keeping your foot securely in place while also pinning the laces out of the way. The suede/mesh textile upper provides adequate airflow and ventilation during workouts, and the color options, like ours in blue, make you stand out in the gym.

At first glance, these shoes seem too good to be true – attractive, functional, and competitively priced. However, it’s important to be aware that some users have reported durability issues, specifically with the stacked leather heel coming undone. Many purchasers have complained that this shoe runs small and narrow, and recommend ordering half a size up. 

The Rogue/Do-Win Classic lifters are a great option for weightlifting shoes, despite some minor issues. They’re competitively priced, stylish, and provide excellent support for lifting. If you’re willing to take the risk with this shoe’s long-term durability issue, they’re a great investment.

With a 20mm heel-to-toe drop, the Do-Win Classic Lifter meets the standard for elevated-heel shoes. The wider outsoles are a bonus for people with wide feet who prefer more space for their toes to move around. What’s more, these shoes are dripping in style. The compressed leather heel gives the appearance of lifting on wood, while the suede/mesh textile upper comes in black, red, and royal blue.

Key Specs

Drop:	19 mm
Width:	Narrow
Weight:	22.3 oz
Price:	$130

Best For

The Rogue/Do-Win Classic Lifters are weightlifting shoes that are designed to provide stability and support to weightlifters during Olympic lifting styles such as the snatch and clean and jerk. These shoes are ideal for:

• Weightlifters who want to improve their technique and performance in the snatch, clean and jerk, and other weightlifting movements.
• CrossFit athletes as they provide the necessary stability and support to athletes during weightlifting.
• Powerlifters who want to improve their squat and deadlift technique. The raised heel helps to improve ankle mobility and allows for a deeper squat.
• Anyone who performs Olympic lifting including athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and recreational lifters.  

 

NOBULL – Most Versatile Crossfit Shoes

The NOBULL Trainer, which costs $129, is definitely an investment, but this shoe’s long term durability makes it a solid model that may last you a lifetime. One of the most notable features of the NOBULL CrossFit shoe is its one-piece upper construction, which means there are fewer weak points in the shoe.

The upper is made from SuperFabric, which is created by applying a layer of protective guard plates onto a fabric. These plates are tiny pieces of hard plastic that shield the fabric, making it resistant without compromising breathability or flexibility. This also gives the shoes a unique dot pattern.

The outsole has low-profile lugs that provide both traction and stability, and the midsole construction is firm enough to offer ample support during heavy and explosive lifts. However, some athletes find them clunky during runs.

NOBULL prides itself on being an understated brand, and its shoes are solid, stable, and durable, without any unnecessary frills. Since its launch in 2015, NOBULL has come a long way as a brand. In 2021, it became the title sponsor of the CrossFit Games and has an impressive roster of sponsored athletes, including Brooke Wells, Katrin Davidsdottir, Scott Stallings, Will Greier, Tia-Claire Toomey, and Justin Medeiros, among others.

While NOBULL has expanded its product range to include an entire apparel line as well as different types of shoes such as NOBULL Runners, NOBULL Lifters, and NOBULL Trail Runners, as well as cycling shoes, golf shoes, and slides, the NOBULL Trainers have remained virtually unchanged. Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing is subjective. The people who love NOBULL shoes really love them, while those who don’t, really don’t. 

While they may not be flashy, NOBULL trainers will certainly get the job done for years to come without showing any signs of wear and tear. Best suited for athletes who want a shoe that can withstand years of intense use, these trainers’ understated design makes them versatile enough to be worn as everyday shoes.

Key Specs

Drop:	4mm
Width:	Wide
Weight:	10.9 oz
Price:	$129 – $149, depending on the style and size

Best For

The NOBULL trainer is best for individuals who participate in high-intensity workouts, such as CrossFit, weightlifting, and functional fitness. The shoe’s durable construction and grippy sole make it a good choice for activities that involve a lot of movement and heavy lifting.

The wide and mobile toe box construction and comfortable fit also make it suitable for those with wider feet or for people who prefer a more roomy shoe. However, due to its higher price point, it may not be the best option for those on a budget or who only work out occasionally. 

Reebok Speed 21 TR – Best Budget CrossFit Shoe

The Reebok Unisex-Adult Speed TR 2.1 Cross Trainer is a versatile training shoe that is designed for high-intensity workouts, including CrossFit, HIIT, and plyometric training. With its lightweight and breathable construction, this shoe is built to withstand the demands of intense workouts, while providing ample support and cushioning for the feet.

The Speed TR 2.1 features a durable synthetic and mesh upper that offers excellent breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during workouts. The upper is also designed to provide ample support for your feet during lateral movements and quick changes of direction, which are common in high-intensity workouts. The low-cut design of the shoe allows for freedom of movement and flexibility, giving you the ability to perform a wide range of exercises without feeling restricted.

The shoe features an EVA foam midsole construction that provides cushioning and shock absorption, which is important for protecting your feet and joints during high-impact exercises. The midsole is also responsive, which means that it provides a good balance of cushioning and energy return, allowing you to move quickly and efficiently during your workouts.

One of the standout features of the Speed TR 2.1 is the RopePro technology on the outsole, which provides excellent grip and durability on rope climbs. This technology is specifically designed to withstand the wear and tear of rope climbs, which can quickly degrade the sole of a shoe. With RopePro, you can climb ropes with confidence, knowing that your shoes will provide the grip and durability you need to succeed.

The shoe also features Metasplit grooves on the outsole, which allow for natural foot splay and flexibility. This is important for ensuring that your feet can move naturally during exercises that require lateral movements, such as lunges and side shuffles. The grooves also help to promote balance and stability, which can be especially important during weightlifting exercises.

Key Specs 

Drop:	3mm
Width:	Standard fit
Weight:	10.9 oz
Price:	$75-$100 USD

Best For

Overall, the Reebok Unisex-Adult Speed TR 2.1 Cross Trainer is an excellent shoe for high-intensity workouts. With its lightweight and breathable construction, responsive midsole, and RopePro technology, this shoe is built to withstand the demands of intense workouts, while providing ample support and cushioning for the feet. 

Whether you’re a CrossFit enthusiast or just looking for a versatile training shoe, the Speed TR 2.1 is definitely worth considering.

Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 – Best Barefoot-Style Shoes

In the early days of CrossFit, there was a trend among athletes to lift with as little material as possible between their feet and the ground, resulting in the emergence of shoes like Vibram Five Fingers. Today, barefoot shoes are still popular, and Inov-8, a UK-based footwear company, offers its Bare-XF 210 V2 as the latest iteration of barefoot shoes.

The shoe’s completely flexible sole allows the foot to move naturally during complex explosive movements, while the tacky rubber wraparound outsole is grippy on boxes and lifting platforms. The Bare-XF’s sole is only 3 mm thick, giving the wearer a close feel to the ground, and the shoes feel like athletic socks with additional protection.

Although early versions of barefoot shoes were notorious for being fragile, Inov-8 has addressed this issue in the Bare-XF 210 V2 with a more durable outsole and a flexible plastic cage covering the upper that provides protection from rope abrasion, offering cross fitters the perfect shoe construction for rope climb.

The new Rope-Tec protection on the lateral and medial midfoot of the shoe is a piece of armor that extends from the heel to the beginning of the toe box. The new Y-Heel lock counter keeps the heel in place, and the combined 6 mm between the insole and outsole offers a barefoot feel without sacrificing protection.

Barefoot training can help strengthen foot muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to better balance and power output. Bare-XF 210 are the favorite barefoot shoes for those who want a barefoot shoe with zero drop and no midsole with excellent upper construction.

These shoes feel like socks, but they still provide enough protection for athletic workouts. The new lacing system is an upgrade that brings the Rope-Tec cage together on top of the shoe, and the shoe retains its socks-like feel, despite feeling more sturdy. The Bare-XF 210 V2 is an excellent choice for those who want to try barefoot training without going completely barefoot and enjoying the multitude of perks of wearing functional fitness-focused barefoot shoes.

Key Specs

Drop:	0mm
Width:	Wide
Weight:	210g
Price:	$110-$120

Best For

The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 are one of the better looking CrossFit shoes on the market, and it’s designed for people who engage in a variety of activities, including weightlifting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and other forms of functional fitness.

The shoe is particularly suitable for individuals who prefer a minimalist design with a low-to-the-ground feel. It has a zero-drop platform, which means that there is no difference in height between the heel and the forefoot, providing a natural and stable base for lifting weights and performing other movements.

The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 is also suitable for people with a wider foot, as it has wider outsoles and a roomy toe box. These are also great barefoot shoes for squats, as they allow for natural toe movement during exercises such as squats and deadlifts. 

CrossFit Shoes Buying Guide

Are you searching for the perfect pair of shoes that can withstand the rigors of CrossFit? Whether you’re a newbie in the CrossFit world or an experienced fitness enthusiast, it’s best to avoid using your old walking or running shoes and opt for true CrossFit shoes instead. Shoes matter, and wearing the proper pair of shoes intended for the activity will enhance your performance and protect you from injuries.

CrossFit shoes are designed specifically to provide control, stability, and comfort while you perform multi-directional exercises. Weightlifting shoes should be tough, durable, and comfortable and provide a stable base for lifting – be that recreational lifting, Olympic lifting, or flexibility training. The right pair of shoes for CrossFit shouldn’t be too heavy that they slow you down.

Here are some of the most important features to consider when looking for the perfect CrossFit shoes.

Price

Before considering any other construction aspects, you should first decide on your budget. There is a truly wide variety of shoes for cross-training that come at various prices, ranging from the low-end and discounted/older models that cost around $60.00-$80.00, to the newer and high-end trainers priced at around $130.00.

If you only plan on wearing them for workouts and want to save money, consider buying a budget-friendly yet solid shoe. However, if you plan to use them frequently and intensively, it is best to invest in newer models or a higher-end style shoe that you can wear for a variety of activities.

Durable Outsole

The outsole is the bottom of the shoe, which is an essential part of CrossFit shoes. When looking for stability and performance, choose cross trainers with a durable outsole, like rubber outsoles that have TPU layers on the heel. If you’re looking for functionality and comfort, consider CrossFit shoes with a thicker outsole wrap featuring a blend of rubber and foam.

Midsole Construction

The midsole is the bridge between the outsole and the insole, which provides support and cushioning. Look for CrossFit shoes featuring a high-density foam midsole construction, as these provide an additional layer of comfort. A firmer midsole construction provides a more stable base.

Outer Construction

The shoe’s long-term durability and breathability are the two most important aspects of the outer construction of CrossFit shoes. Proprietary materials, TPU, and thicker mesh are the most durable, while fully mesh outers provide the best breathability for the foot during workouts. CrossFit shoes often have unique, proprietary materials that ensure the shoe’s long-term durability and breathability.

Heel Support

The importance of proper heel support cannot be overstated for athletes who need a stable base in their cross-training shoes to assist them during lifting. Like a shoe’s outsole and midsole construction, each type of heel has unique characteristics that indicate whether the shoe is more comfortable or has a more stable base.

To help you evaluate a certain shoe style’s comfort and stability, we have compiled a list of several construction characteristics to consider. Please keep in mind that these suggestions are general and that some shoes may differ from what is listed below.

Stable Heels	Comfortable Heels
TPU layers	Thicker foam midsoles
Extended rubber outsoles	Bootie heel design
Heel cups and clips	Lower heel cups

To properly evaluate the heel’s stable base, take a look at both the outsole and midsole construction of the CrossFit shoes you’re considering to get an idea of the support and the shoe’s long term durability. Shoes with a stable base frequently have heel cups for inner support, TPU and rubber materials near the boot that are low to the ground, and at times, plastic heel cups and clips for external support.

Other Features to Consider

Stability is essential for executing workouts effectively. Heavy lifting and movements like box jumps and lunges require a stable base and a pair of shoes that minimizes rolling to the side. Look for a solid shoe with a lower heel drop and a snug fit, as they typically provide greater stability on lifts.

Traction is another important factor to consider, as it prevents slipping during exercises, which can lead to injury. Softer soles provide greater traction on surfaces compared to shoes with soles that are harder.

Absorption is the ability of shoes to provide great cushioning on runs and while exercising and distribute the impact of vertical movements. It helps protect your joints from the pounding of exercises like box jumps and burpees. When buying true CrossFit shoes, look for a pair that can absorb impact and protect your ankles, knees, hips, and neck.

The strength of a shoe is also crucial, as you want them to last and withstand the rigors of CrossFit workouts. The pair of shoes you choose should have a durable outsole, provide excellent balance on lifts, and offer enough flexibility and durability on rope climbs. Plus, it should be able to support the multitude of movements that CrossFit routines involve.

The weight of your shoes is also important, as a heavy pair of shoes can hinder your performance during repeated exercises. Look for shoes for WODs that are lightweight and can enhance your speed, power, and agility.

Fit is key, as you want shoes that fit snugly and comfortably. A comfortable and mobile toe box construction is essential for a wide spectrum of exercises that involve starts and stops. What’s more, the pair of shoes you choose should not be too loose, as this could cause your feet to slide around.

Additionally, shoes for WODs come in different widths, so, if you have a wider foot, make sure to choose a pair of shoes with wider outsoles so that it perfectly suits your feet. Breathability is also an important consideration, particularly for comfort, and mesh shoes are typically best.

Finally, while appearance is the least important factor practically, the aesthetics of your CrossFit shoes matters big time. Today, there are hundreds of shoes for CrossFit in different colors and designs to choose from, and finding a solid shoe that meets your preferences and style of training can have a positive impact on your mental state, which can be crucial to the success of your workouts. It can help you focus on your fitness goals and achieve maximum results.

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