Last Updated on October 24, 2022 by admin
When you’re busy crushing an intense Crossfit workout, the last thing you want to worry about is your feet.
Functional fitness training demands a lot from your body, with activities ranging from heavy deadlifts and Olympic weightlifting to gymnastics and running. So it’s no surprise that looking for the best Crossfit shoes can be challenging.
We’ve reviewed 5 of the best Crossfit shoes for 2022 to help you choose the right shoe.
Best Crossfit Shoes for 2022
1. Nike Men’s Metcon 5 Training Shoe
Metcon 5 is a popular addition to Nike’s Metcon range. The shoe is specifically designed for MetCon training.
Its low, flat, and wide heel features a removable hyper lift insert that adds offset to improve stability during squats, wall balls, and thrusters.
The textured print on the top of the shoe promotes lightweight durability whenever needed.
You can go from heavy lifts to burpees with tuned cushioning that’s firm in the back and dynamic in front.
Metcon 5 has directional traction on the outsole wraps, up the side of the shoe, for enhanced grip when climbing up a rope and speed when sliding down.
The only problem is that they are not waterproof.
These shoes come in a variety of colors and sizes.
2. Reebok Nano 9 Cross Trainer
- Comfort and performance
- Imported
- Women Size Down 1.5 sizes for fit
- 100% Fabric
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Comfort and performance
- Women Size Down 1.5 sizes for fit
The Reebok Nano 9 is the most comfortable Crossfit shoe. Crossfit athletes design it for them.
It features a thick, woven synthetic mesh upper which gives a locked-in feel that promotes secure footing. It has an inner sleeve and heel wrap. The support cage provides stability for weightlifting.
The midsole consists of an EVA foam core under urethane sidewalls with a 4mm heel drop.
The cushioning provides responsive comfort during intensive running workouts.
Reebok Nano 9 is designed with a strong foundation and durable comfort to keep you going even during your most challenging workouts.
The only disadvantage is that it is not a plyo-friendly shoe.
3. NOBULL Men’s Arctic Grey Trainer
NOBULL was launched in 2015 and was created for people who train hard and don’t believe in excuses. This no-nonsense approach to fitness is reflected in the logo for visibility when you need it most.
This simple yet highly durable design has you covered from all fronts, whether you lift, climb, run, or slide. NOBULL Men’s Arctic Grey Trainer is lightweight, breathable, and offers flexible protection.
It has high carbon lateral and medial guards for added protection on sidewalls.
The outsole pattern was designed for multi-environment usage and easily transitions between indoors and outdoors.
The trainer has a minimalist perforated canvas upper with an athletic performance outsole.
The only issue you may have is a lack of arch support for heavy weightlifting.
4. New Balance Men’s 517 V1 Cross Trainer
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Abzorb midsole
- Nb memory sole comfort insert
New Balance takes your workout to the next level. It is ideal for beginners as well as more advanced gymers.
The New Balance Men’s 517 V1 Cross Trainer is made of breathable material.
It is well suited for weight training, walking, and other gym activities like elliptical machines or fitness classes on a hard floor.
The shoe features the brand’s patented QUIX technology, providing optimal traction and solid stability.
The Abzorb midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance.
Overall this shoe is sturdy and supportive and will keep you focused on your workout instead of your feet.
However, it is a heavy shoe, so it is not suitable for jogging.
5. PUMA Men’s Tazon 6 Fracture FM Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Run-Train Performance Sneaker
- Tazon
- 100% Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Run-Train Performance Sneaker
- Tazon
The PUMA Tazon 6 is a perfect combination of utility, style, and an eye-catching design. It showcases the seasonal fracture graphic for a modern look.
Apart from its looks, the features and functionality of this shoe make it a popular choice. It is designed with a heel bubble for support and a rubber outsole for traction and control.
The slip-resistant outsole protects from abrasion. The geometrical pattern of the outsole features multi-directional treads for additional traction during various types of movement.
Tazon 6 provides stable, shock-absorbing cushioning for additional comfort to meet all your running and gyming needs.
The trainer is lightweight and designed with quality, durable materials.
It is ideal for indoors and outdoors and comes in various colors.
A few issues regarding this PUMA trainer are insufficient ventilation, stiff cushioning, insole durability issues, and it requires a break-in period.
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose A Crossfit Shoe
Cushioning & Heel Drop
Cushioning and heel drop are the two most important factors to consider when selecting a shoe for Crossfit. It is also the first thing you notice when trying on a pair.
In terms of cushioning, there is a fine line to maintain. Too little cushioning can be very painful during high-impact movements. Too much cushioning can result in a loss of power and responsiveness, particularly during weightlifting.
Heel drop refers to how high the heel is off the ground versus how high the toe is. When it comes to Crossfit, 4mm seems to be the right amount. It strikes the perfect balance between cushioning on runs and balance on lifts.
Rigid Sole
A rigid sole, specifically in the heel, is excellent for Olympic lifting. A soft sole’s cushioning absorbs the power produced by an athlete’s leg during explosive movements.
Wide Toebox
This depends on your preference. People with wide feet will appreciate a wider toebox because it allows their toes to splay out. However, people with narrow feet will feel as if their feet are not getting any sidewall support.
Lateral Support
Lateral support is vital for people who have had previous ankle injuries or who tend to roll their ankles. Shoes use different designs to fix this.
Nike’s Metcon and Reebok’s Nano products have slightly wider outsoles for a wider base. NOBULL’s mid-top shoe offers extra support for your ankle.
Durability
Crossfit is as hard, or even harder, on the shoe than it is on the athlete.
The most common failure is a sidewall blowout. To combat this, most shoe manufacturers add TPU reinforcement on the sidewalls to protect your feet from this kind of wear and tear.
Conclusion
Crossfit shoes are an essential part of your Crossfit workouts. They can either hinder or improve your performance.
That is why it is important to consider the factors mentioned above when looking for the right Crossfit shoe for you.