A word of warning; looking for the perfect CrossFit shoe can be a needle-in-haystack endeavour; the haystack being the CrossFit box, and the needle a shoe that can withstand burpees, box jumps, and rope climbs without falling apart.
Many of us are accustomed to using a single shoe for all our fitness and activity needs. Whether it’s a gym session, running, a game of tennis or golf, or even a busy day of errands, you can find yourself relying on the same worn-out pair of classic sandshoes. But the fitness landscape has evolved, and it’s time you adapt with it. Investing in the right pair of runners and gym shoes not only equips you to perform complex CrossFit moves, like the clean and jerk correctly, but also gives you peace of mind that your feet are locked in and prepared for whatever they’re confronted with.
Why you need CrossFit shoes
When it comes to physical fitness, wearing appropriate footwear is essential. If you ask any runner whether they would knock out a 10 or 15-km run in a pair of random sandshoes, it would be met with a laugh. The same goes for CrossFit shoes. Run, jump, power clean, rope climb, and burpee: all your favourite CrossFit exercises are more comfortable if you’re in good shoes.
One of the most noticeable differences between CrossFit shoes and running shoes or other cross-training footwear is the sole. A stiffer sole is key for powerlifting, Olympic lifting and squatting movements. It gives you feedback on explosive movements and stability in the power movements. CrossFit can be challenging on our bodies, and it can be tough on our shoes. An all-mesh upper or soft sole could get totally torn up. One rope climb can rip up the bottom of a shoe. Strapping into a rower or running outdoors can put wear and tear on the outer layers.
Some key features that separate CrossFit shoes from your run-of-the-mill gym or walking trainer include:
- Smaller heel drop size: keeping feel more parallel to the ground, distributing weight evenly across your foot.
- Correct cushioning: rather than opting for more or less cushioning, a balance in between is critical for responsiveness and support.
- Wide toe box: this allows a snug fit for feet to jump, run, and weight lift simultaneously safely without putting stress on toes.
Nano X3 Adventure
We start our list with the always-popular Nano X3 Adventure, a top-performing CrossFit shoe designed to tackle any intense workout without sacrificing foot comfort. The shoe boasts an important water-resistant upper mesh and a lace closure system, ensuring a secure and customisable fit. The shoe is loaded with a classic cross-fit midsole drop of 4mm, which creates a stable and supportive platform for lifting, while the wide toe box allows for natural foot splay during explosive movements.
Additionally, the shoe has a full rubber outsole that provides excellent traction and durability – a perfect selection for newcomers to the CrossFit fitness game.
- Water-resistant mesh upper
- Lace closure
Adidas Dropset 2 Trainer
The Dropset 2 Trainer is the perfect shoe for those who want to make a style and quality statement in the gym. Its sleek design and bold colours will catch the eyes of everyone in the gym and have them wishing they had a pair of their own. This shoe is not just about looks, though. Its innovative design provides the ultimate support and stability for all your CrossFit needs.
With a classic CrossFit heel drop size, correct cushioning for explosive movements, and a wide toe box, you can easily lift, run, and jump. Plus, the sole is so durable that you won’t have to worry about replacing your shoes every few months.
- Midsole drop: 6 mm
- Wide fit
- Adjustable lacing system
Nano X4
With its sleek design and durable construction, this CrossFit shoe is growing in popularity in the fitness world. Even Australia’s best CrossFit athlete Jay Crouch, a six-time Games athlete, two-time Oceania Semifinal winner, and eighth overall at the 2023 CrossFit Games, rocking with the Reebok Nano X4’s during competition.
Protecting your feet from the hazards of rope climbs, burpees, and box jumps, the shoe’s breathable upper, keeps your feet feeling fresh while the responsive midsole and grippy outsole give you the power and control you need to crush every rep. Plus, with its stylish look, the Nano X4 is like the Tony Stark of workout shoes – it’s functional and fashionable.
- Midsole drop: 7 mm
- Mid-foot ventilation
- Full rubber outsole
Nike Metcon 9
With a sleek design and a spacious fit, these shoes are perfect for any type of workout, from powerlifting to rope climbing. The fly wire technology keeps your feet locked in and secure, while the flexible forefoot allows for natural movement and agility.
The outsole is made with a durable rubber material, so you can trust these shoes to withstand the toughest workouts. Plus, with a variety of colour options to choose from, you’ll look stylish while crushing your fitness goals.
- Midsole Drop: 4mm
- Wide toe box
- Rope guard wrap-around
Under Armour TriBase™ Reign 6
Under Armour love to make tough training gear, and the TriBase Reign 6 is a shoe built for those who take their training seriously. With a design that blends style and function, the TriBase Reign 6 boasts a unique triangular base that provides stability and support for weightlifting while allowing agility and flexibility during high-intensity training sessions. The shoe’s upper is made from breathable mesh and synthetic materials, which help keep your feet cool and dry, even during the sweatiest workouts. And with a range of colour options to choose from, you can look good while you train hard.
- Midsole drop: 2mm
- Full-rubber outsole
- Low-to-the-ground build
TYR – CXT-1 TRAINER
Looking for a shoe that can handle your CrossFit workout but also want to make a statement with your footwear? The TYR-CXT-1 trainer provides the necessary support and flexibility for a successful CrossFit session and boasts a bold and unique design that will have heads turning. The upper features a combination of breathable mesh and durable synthetic materials, while the outsole is made of high-traction rubber for optimal grip on any surface.
Plus, with its sleek and vibrant colour scheme and eye-catching patterns, you’ll be the envy of all your gym mates.
- Midsole drop: 9mm
- Flexible in the forefoot
- Breathable upper mesh
Related stories:
