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With the variety of movements in CrossFit workouts, you need shoes that can handle heavy lifting, running, and jumping. They also need to be durable since you’ll be running outside and doing rope climbs and handstand push-ups — all of which can quickly cause rips and tears in a cheap or poor-quality shoe.
But how do you find a CrossFit training shoe that fits all these requirements?
To help make your search easier, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best CrossFit shoes:
- Nike Metcon 8 – Best Overall
- Reebok Nano X3 – Runner Up
- No Bull Trainer+ – Best for Barbell WODs
- Inov8 F-Lite 260 V2 Knit – Best for Narrow Feet
- TYR CXT-1 Trainer – Best Unisex CrossFit Shoe
- GORUCK Ballistic Trainers – Best for Arch Support
- Vans UltraRange EXO – Most Versatile
- Reebok Lifter PR III – Best Lifting Shoe for CrossFit
- Xero 360 – Best Minimalist Shoes for CrossFit
- PUMA Fuse 2.0 – Best Budget CrossFit Shoe
During an intense and fast-paced CrossFit WOD (workout of the day), the last thing you want to worry about is your shoes falling apart or your feet cramping because they’re not supported enough.
In this article, I’ll review the 10 best CrossFit shoes of 2023 and discuss their pros and cons, so you can make an informed choice about the shoes that are best for your needs. I’ll also provide a list of criteria to consider when shopping for CrossFit shoes and discuss what makes CrossFit shoes better than other training shoes.
Featured Products
- Nike Metcon 8 – Best Overall
- Reebok Nano X3 – Runner Up
- PUMA Fuse 2.0 – Best Budget CrossFit Shoe
10 Best CrossFit Shoes
Shoe | Heel-To-Toe Drop | Width of Toe Box | Weight | Key Features | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nike Metcon 8 - Best Overall | 4 mm | Neutral | 12.4 ounces | Nike React foam Breathable synthetic overlay | Buy Now |
Reebok Nano X3 - Runner Up | 7 mm | Wide | 12 ounces | Floatride Energy Foam Lift and Run Chassis system | Buy Now |
NOBULL Trainer+ - Best for Barbell WODs | 4 mm | Narrow | 10-12 ounces | Abrasion-resistant upper material Reinforced heel Rubber lug outsole | Buy Now |
Inov8 F-Lite 260 V2 Knit - Best for Narrow Feet | 8 mm | Narrow | 9.2 ounces | Rope-tec technology | Buy Now |
TYR CXT-1 Trainer - Best Unisex CrossFit Shoe | 9 mm | Neutral | N/A | Patented stability platform Wall glide technology | Buy Now |
GORUCK Ballistic Trainers - Best for Arch Support | 8 mm | Wide | 14.4 ounces | Military-grade 1680D CORDURA® material around the heel, the midfoot, and the areas around the laces | Buy Now |
Vans UltraRange EXO - Most Versatile | Not specified, but it appears to be around 0 mm | Neutral | 10 ounces | Waffle-patterned lug outsole for extra traction | Buy Now |
Reebok Lifter PR III - Best Lifting Shoes for CrossFit | 18 mm | Narrow | N/A | High-density EVA foam Lightweight mesh upper | Buy Now |
Xero 360 - Best Minimalist Shoe for CrossFit | 0 mm | Wide | 9.2 ounces | Rubber inlays to prevent rips and fraying | Buy Now |
PUMA Fuse 2.0 - Best Budget CrossFit Shoe | 4 mm | Narrow | 13.3 ounces | Springy midsole for shock absorption when running and jumping | Buy Now |
1. Nike Metcon 8 – Best Overall
Rating: 4.9/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 4 mm
- Width of the toe box – neutral
- Weight – 12.4 ounces
- Key features – Nike React foam, breathable synthetic overlay
Pros
- Durable
- Breathable overlay helps keep your feet comfortable
- Nike React foam provides just the right amount of cushioning
- Flexible forefoot allows your foot to move naturally
- Rubber wraps along the arches prevent friction and rips during rope climbs
- Lock-lace tabs on the tongue to prevent the laces from coming untied
Cons
- Not comfortable enough for long runs
- Expensive
I’ve worn numerous models of the Nike Metcons ever since they were released, and they are still the shoe I reach for most often for my CrossFit workouts. They’re my top pick for the best CrossFit shoe because they’re comfortable and neither too stiff nor too flexible, making them ideal for heavy lifting, running short distances, and dynamic movements.
The Metcon 8s feature a breathable synthetic overlay that helps keep your feet cool and dry. The all-rubber outsole provides a stable base for heavy lifting and offers good traction to prevent you from slipping, whether you’re training inside on a rubber gym floor or outside on wet pavement.
Additionally, the midsole has Nike React foam to provide cushioning and prevent foot discomfort when doing movements like box jumps. The amount of cushioning is small, though, and still allows you to push through the ground and remain balanced when doing heavy lifts.
I also love how durable the Metcons, in general, are. I still rotate through a couple of old models I bought several years ago. While there’s some wear and tear on them, it’s not so bad that the shoes are unusable.
One drawback to these shoes is that they aren’t comfortable for runs over 800 meters or so. Even though they’re my top pick for shoes that are good for both running and lifting, I wear regular running shoes if I do workouts like Murph that include longer runs. The sole and heel on the Nike Metcon 8 are too stiff and not very shock-absorbant for long-distance runs.
These shoes are also pricey, but as I said, I have pairs that are several years old that I still wear to this day. The durability alone justifies the cost.
2. Reebok Nano X3 – Runner Up
Rating: 4.8/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 7 mm
- Width of the toe box – wide
- Weight – 12 ounces
- Key features – Floatride Energy Foam, Lift and Run Chassis system
Pros
- Good arch support
- Lightweight upper material
- Floatride Energy Foam provides ample cushioning for running and jumping
- Lift and Run Chassis system adds stability to the shoe for heavy lifts
Cons
- Heel counter comes up high and can cause blisters
The Reebok Nano was one of the first CrossFit-specific sneakers to hit the market back in 2011. I’ve previously only worn the Nano Xs and found them sufficient, but I didn’t love them. Since I eventually fell in love with the Nike Metcons, I never revisited the Reebok Nanos — until the Nano X came out.
The Nano Xs are now in their third iteration, and I love them almost as much as the Metcons. The upper material is breathable and flexible, but the sole is stable. They feel supportive under my foot when I land box jumps or do double unders.
I also find that the Nano X3s provide more cushioning than the Metcon 8s due to the Floatride Energy Foam and the new Lift and Run Chassis system Reebok introduced with this model. The Lift and Run Chassis is a dome-shaped piece under the heel that flattens during heavy lifts but offers a responsive feel during high-impact movements.
I have flat feet, and these features help keep my feet from aching during longer CrossFit WODs. I can also run longer distances in the Nano X3s than in the Metcon 8s, though I still recommend a true running shoe for any distance over a mile.
The only reason I didn’t make the Nano X3s the top pick is that the back of the heel comes up too high for my liking and causes blisters. I have to wear high socks or put Vaseline or BodyGlide on my Achilles before I wear these shoes to prevent friction.
3. NOBULL Trainer+ – Best for Barbell WODs
Rating: 4.4/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 4 mm
- Width of the toe box – narrow
- Weight – 10-12 ounces
- Key features – abrasion-resistant material on the upper, reinforced heel, and rubber lug outsole
Pros
- Excellent stability for heavy lifting
- Available in lots of colors and prints
- Reinforced heel protects against damage from handstand push-ups
- Lug-patterned outsole provides good traction and durability
- Abrasion-resistant upper material prevents fraying
Cons
- Not comfortable for long runs
- Stiff upper makes the shoe difficult to put on
- Expensive
If you step into any CrossFit box, you’ll likely notice at least some members wearing the NOBULL Trainer+ shoes. NOBULL had already been gaining steam in the community since the brand launched in 2015, but when it became the sponsor of the CrossFit Games in 2021, the shoes grew in popularity.
Like the Metcon 8s, the NOBULL Trainer+ sneakers are durable and can last for years. This is thanks to the abrasion-resistant material, reinforced heel, and rubber lug outsole that offer protection during handstand push-ups, rope climbs, and outdoor runs.
I also love that these shoes are available in dozens of different colors and styles — you can find a pair to complement nearly any gym outfit you own.
Two drawbacks to these shoes are the stiff upper and the lack of cushioning. I don’t have wide feet, but I still have to loosen the laces nearly all the way to get the shoes on. I also can’t wear them for any CrossFit WODs with running or box jumps because there’s not enough cushioning to keep my feet comfortable during high-impact movements.
Despite those flaws, I love these shoes for strength training and barbell WODs. The flat, rigid sole provides decent stability, and the minimal cushioning allows you to push through the ground effectively during heavy lifts. They’re great for days when you’re just doing some barbell technique work or WODs that don’t require a lot of dynamic movements.
Looking to improve your strength for CrossFit WODs? Check out my guide on how to combine powerlifting and CrossFit.
4. Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 Knit – Best for Narrow Feet
Rating: 4.3/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 8 mm
- Width of the toe box – narrow
- Weight – 9.2 ounces
- Key features – rope-tec technology
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible
- Grippy outsole for better traction
- Reinforced heel to protect the shoe from damage when doing handstand push-ups
- Breathable textile upper to keep your feet cool and comfortable
- Rope-tec technology protects the sidewalls during rope climbs
Cons
- Eight-millimeter heel drop may be too high for some athletes
- Expensive
The Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 Knit sneakers are breathable yet sturdy shoes that can stand up to nearly any CrossFit workout. Because of their narrow toe box, they’re the best CrossFit sneakers for athletes with narrow feet. However, if you have a wider foot but these shoes meet every other criterion on your list, you can try sizing up for some extra room.
The shoes weigh just 9.2 ounces each, making them ideal for running and jumping because they won’t weigh you down. They’re also flexible, so your feet won’t feel too constricted as you transition from one movement to the next.
The reinforced heel and rope-tec technology make these shoes especially great for CrossFit. The reinforced heel prevents damage as you drag your feet along the wall during handstand push-ups, and the rope-tec technology prevents fraying from friction during rope climbs. These features boost the shoe’s overall durability.
Another noteworthy feature is the higher heel-to-toe drop. Unlike other CrossFit shoes that have a four-millimeter heel drop, the Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 Knit shoes have an eight-millimeter heel drop.
This extra height is good and bad. For CrossFitters with poor ankle mobility who have trouble getting deep enough for squatting movements, the higher heel drop can allow you to reach depth. However, it might affect your ability to do heavy deadlifts effectively because it lengthens your range of motion.
5. TYR CXT-1 Training Shoe – Best Unisex CrossFit Shoe
Rating: 4.7/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 9 mm
- Width of the toe box – neutral
- Weight – N/A
- Key features – patented stability platform, wall glide technology
Pros
- Stability platform keeps your foot locked in place
- Can fit either a man’s or woman’s foot
- Foam midsole offers responsive cushioning when running, jumping, or quickly changing directions
- Heels slide easily against the wall during handstand push-ups
Cons
- Heavier than other options
- Nine-millimeter toe drop may be too high for some athletes
Even though the TYR brand has been in the athletic industry for nearly 40 years, it just recently started impacting the CrossFit community. The TYR CXT-1 Trainers boast a unisex design, making them the best CrossFit shoes for men and women.
Despite being a newcomer to the CrossFit space, TYR has done a great job producing a versatile, durable sneaker that can withstand the demands of CrossFit training. The CXT-1 Trainers feature wall glide technology to prevent the heel from catching on the wall during handstand push-ups, and there’s a toe guard to keep them safe from rips.
This shoe also has responsive Surge NRG foam in the midsole to provide adequate cushioning during high-impact movements. But it’s still sturdy enough for heavy lifting due to the stability platform, which helps keep your foot locked in place and offers a stable base to push against.
The heel drop is nine millimeters, which may be too high for athletes who prefer training in a flatter shoe. But if you don’t mind the extra height and are looking for a sturdy CrossFit shoe, this is a good option.
6. GORUCK Ballistic Trainers – Best for Arch Support
Rating: 4.5/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 8 mm
- Width of the toe box – wide
- Weight – 14.4 ounces
- Key features – Military-grade 1680D CORDURA® material around the heel, the midfoot, and the areas around the laces
Pros
- Several colorways to choose from
- Wide toe box makes them ideal for CrossFitters with wide feet
- Can also be worn with street clothes and casual outfits
- Extra lace-lock eyelets to help keep your heels locked in place
- Made with 1680D CORDURA® for extra durability
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Heavy weight makes them less than ideal for sprints
The main draw of the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers is the 3X Support™ system that provides excellent arch support for all three arches of your foot (the medial longitudinal, lateral longitudinal, and anterior transverse arch). If you have flat feet or a history of issues like plantar fasciitis, these shoes can give you the stability you need.
The midfoot, the heel, and the area around the laces are made with 1680D CORDURA®, a heavy-duty, military-grade material known for its durability. The rubber outsole is abrasion-resistant, so these shoes will last through dozens of workouts in various training environments, including during trail runs.
At 14.4 ounces, they are the heaviest shoes on this list. This makes them a poor choice for workouts with sprints because they can feel heavy and clunky on your foot.
Despite the weight, these shoes also look good with casual clothes. This is an excellent feature if you want to stretch your dollar and wear these shoes for running errands or casual outings.
Furthermore, the 1680D CORDURA® material is easy to clean, so if they get dirty in the gym, you can spot clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap.
7. Vans UltraRange EXO – Most Versatile
Rating: 4/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – not specified, but it appears to be around 0 mm
- Width of the toe box – neutral
- Weight – 10 ounces
- Key features – waffle-patterned lug outsole for extra traction
Pros
- Stylish design that also works well with street clothes
- Available in lots of colors
- Waffle-shaped lug outsole provides excellent traction
- More affordable than traditional CrossFit shoes
Cons
- Cushioning can be too much for heavy lifts
Vans isn’t a brand most people associate with CrossFit, but the UltraRange EXO shoes have many features that make them good for the sport. Like the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers, they also look good with casual outfits, so you can get a lot of use out of them by wearing them to the gym, while running errands, or for a casual outing.
Another plus is that these shoes are cheaper than shoes from most of the well-known CrossFit brands. Vans also offers sales frequently, which can help you save even more money. They’re also available in many colors, from basic black and white to neon pink and burnt orange, so you can easily find a pair that suits your style.
The shoes have a flat sole that’s stable enough for lightweight barbell work and a cushioned midsole that’s comfortable for short runs. There’s a waffle-patterned lug outsole for excellent traction on various surfaces.
However, the cushioning is just a bit too much for heavy lifting. If you’re attempting a new PR, a dedicated lifting or barefoot-style shoe is better, depending on which lift you’re performing.
Because they’re not a true “CrossFit” shoe, they don’t have the reinforced uppers and heels that shoes from NOBULL, Nike, TYR, and Reebok do. They may not hold up as well if you do a lot of handstand push-ups and rope climbs.
8. Reebok Lifter PR III – Best Lifting Shoes for CrossFit
Rating: 4.1/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 18 mm
- Width of the toe box – narrow
- Weight – N/A
- Key features – high-density EVA foam, lightweight mesh upper
Pros
- Light textile upper for breathability
- Metatarsal straps help keep your foot from slipping inside the shoe
- High-density EVA foam midsole to enhance comfort
- Affordable price point when compared with other weightlifting shoes
Cons
- Can only be worn for lifting or barbell WODS without a lot of running
- Limited color availability
I had to include at least one weightlifting shoe on this list for the days when you’re focusing on heavy squats or the Olympic lifts. The Reebok Lifter PR IIIs are excellent lifters for CrossFitters due to their comfort and stability.
The 18-millimeter heel-to-toe drop can help most athletes reach proper depth when squatting, even if ankle mobility is an issue. The all-rubber outsole provides good traction to prevent your feet from slipping when under heavy loads, and the shoes are comfortable to wear during long lifting sessions thanks to the high-density EVA foam in the midsole.
Another nice feature of these lifters is the lightweight mesh upper, which allows for good airflow to keep your feet cool and dry when training in hot environments. They have a metatarsal strap to keep your foot locked in place inside the shoe, and they provide a stable base to push against when standing up from a squat, clean, or snatch.
You can wear these shoes for WODs with lots of thrusters, wall balls, and squats as long as those workouts also don’t require running. As with most weightlifting shoes, the Lifter PR IIIs have too rigid of a sole to absorb the impacts of your feet hitting the ground repeatedly. However, they’re fine to keep on for movements like burpees or pull-up bar exercises.
If you’re looking for more weightlifting shoe options, check out the 10 Best Weightlifting Shoes.
9. Xero 360 – Best Minimalist Shoe for CrossFit
Rating: 4.6/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 0 mm
- Width of the toe box – narrow
- Weight – 9.2 ounces
- Key features – rubber inlays to prevent rips and fraying
Pros
- Wide toe box
- Made from vegan-friendly materials
- Responsive and flexible
- Outsole provides excellent traction
Cons
- Durability may be an issue
For CrossFitters who prefer a barefoot training experience, the Xero 360 shoes are a solid choice. They have a zero-millimeter heel drop, so they’re about as close to barefoot as you can get.
A minimalist shoe like this is especially beneficial for lifting weights because you can easily push against the ground when under heavy loads. But it’s flexible and has good traction, offering good responsiveness and preventing you from slipping when running or jumping. The materials are breathable and lightweight, so your feet won’t get too sweaty as you train.
Furthermore, the wide toe box lets you splay your toes comfortably, enhancing your stability and balance.
Like most shoes on this list, the Xero 360 shoes have reinforcements to protect them from damage. Rubber inlays along the toes and sidewalls help prevent rips and fraying from rope climbs and wall-facing handstand push-ups.
While these features will help the shoe last longer than a regular cross-training shoe, Xero shoes aren’t as durable as other options on this list. If you train outside often, you may notice shoe abrasions within just a few months.
Still, if you don’t like the feeling of heavy and bulky shoes during your WODs, the Xero 360 shoes may be the best CrossFit training shoes for you.
If you like minimalist training shoes, you may also like one of the shoes that made our list of the best toe shoes for working out.
10. PUMA Fuse 2.0 – Best Budget CrossFit Shoe
Rating: 3.8/5
Specifications
- Heel-to-toe drop – 4 mm
- Width of the toe box – narrow
- Weight – 13.3 ounces
- Key features – springy midsole for shock absorption when running and jumping
Pros
- Absorbs impact and is responsive when running or jumping
- Has good traction
- Breathable mesh that allows good airflow
Cons
- Narrow toe box
- Sole compresses during heavy lifts
One thing that quickly becomes apparent when shopping for good CrossFit shoes is that they aren’t cheap. Because they have so many different features and technologies to withstand the constantly varied nature of CrossFit, they can cost a pretty penny.
But hope is not lost if you’re trying to save money on a pair of sneakers. The PUMA Fuse 2.0 is the least expensive option on this list, making them the best CrossFit shoes for women and men on a budget.
It’s not a typical CrossFit shoe, but it performs well for a sneaker at its price point. The upper is made of breathable mesh to keep your feet comfortable when training in hot environments. The shoe also has a grippy rubber outsole to provide good traction on various surfaces and a flexible and bouncy midsole to absorb impacts when running or jumping.
However, the springy midsole is a drawback for heavy lifting because it compresses under heavy loads and reduces stability. But this isn’t as much of an issue when lifting lighter loads, so the PUMA Fuse 2.0 is also one of the best shoes for CrossFit beginners who aren’t yet pushing serious weights.
Another drawback to note is that the toe box is narrow, so this shoe isn’t ideal for those with wide feet. However, I still recommend it as a budget-friendly option if you have a narrower foot and use light weights in your CrossFit WODs.
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We use our personal experience and expertise to deliver reviews you can trust and only recommend products we truly stand behind.
How We Reviewed the Top CrossFit Shoes
I’ve been doing CrossFit since 2015, and I’ve tested my fair share of the best sneakers for CrossFit since then. The shoes on this list are ones I currently train in or have worn in the past, or they’re shoes that have come highly recommended by other CrossFitters I know.
When making this list, I also scoured CrossFit forums and groups on Reddit and Facebook to better understand what other CrossFitters value in their training shoes. The products that made my final list have all received positive remarks from the community.
Buying Guide: What To Look For in a CrossFit Shoe
Hard Sole and Minimal Cushioning
Some cushioning is necessary for a CrossFit shoe to help absorb the impacts of jumping and running. But the shoe shouldn’t be as cushiony as a running shoe, as too much plushness can throw off your balance and stability when under heavy loads.
You need a stable base to push against for lifts like back squats or deadlifts. A shoe with a hard outsole allows you to generate force from the floor, making it easier to complete each rep.
Shoes that are good for CrossFit have just a touch of cushioning, so they won’t cause too much discomfort during high-impact movements but are still stable enough to allow you to lift heavy weights effectively.
Learn more about why you shouldn’t squat and deadlift in running shoes in Deadlift In Running Shoes: Should You Do It? (No, Here’s Why) and Squatting In Running Shoes: Should You Do It? (No, Here’s Why).
Durability
Durability is always important to consider in shoes for any sport, but it’s especially essential in CrossFit shoes.
Because CrossFit requires various types of movements with multiple pieces of equipment, your shoes can take a beating. The uppers can get frayed or torn from rope climbs, and the heels can wear down from doing handstand push-ups against a wall. When you run outside, gravel can cause the outsoles to deteriorate quickly.
Reinforced materials on your CrossFit shoes will help keep rips and tears to a minimum. It’s also good to look for shoes with sturdy rubber outsoles to protect the bottoms when you train outdoors.
Versatility
Variety is the name of the game in CrossFit. You may run, lift a heavy barbell, jump, and do gymnastics in any given workout. The best shoes for CrossFit can stand up to the ever-changing nature of the WODs you’ll come across at your local box.
Low Heel Drop
For most CrossFit workouts, I recommend shoes with a low heel-to-toe drop to help keep you grounded and stable during your workouts.
While squat shoes with a heel drop of around 18-20 millimeters can help you reach depth on thrusters, squats, and wall balls, they’re not ideal for most CrossFit workouts. They’re bulky and can weigh you down when jumping, and they’re not suitable for running because they lack ample cushioning.
A shoe with a four- to eight-millimeter heel drop is ideal. It’s neither too minimalist nor too cushiony, so it offers a sufficient amount of support without making you feel unbalanced.
Price
Most CrossFit shoes will cost at least $100, so you’ll need to be prepared to dish out a decent amount of cash. You can throw on an inexpensive pair of sneakers, but I don’t recommend it. Cheaper shoes that aren’t designed for CrossFit aren’t as durable and can’t handle the demands of the sport as well.
Spending the extra money on a good pair of shoes will prevent you from having to replace them after just a short time.
Breathability
During a CrossFit WOD, you’ll inevitably sweat. Another aspect that makes shoes good for CrossFit is their breathable mesh materials. These materials will help keep your feet cool and comfortable, so you can focus on remembering what round or rep you’re on and not how hot your feet are.
Wide Toe Box
A wide toe box allows you to spread your toes more, offering more stability and keeping your toes from feeling squished. It shouldn’t be so roomy that your feet don’t feel supported, but it should still offer plenty of room to allow you to move your toes comfortably.
How Do CrossFit Shoes Differ From Other Shoes?
CrossFit shoes differ from other shoes in that they’re meant to be all-purpose shoes. CrossFit shoes can handle both, unlike running shoes or weightlifting shoes that are specific to those sports. They strike a balance between offering cushioning and stability, so you can easily transition from heavy barbell movements to running or other dynamic exercises while wearing them.
CrossFit shoes also have features that regular training shoes don’t. These features include abrasion-resistant uppers to protect them from damage when doing rope climbs and reinforced heels that prevent your foot from catching on the wall during handstand push-ups. Other training shoes that don’t have these features may become damaged easily.
Furthermore, CrossFit shoes have a low heel-to-toe drop of around four to eight millimeters. This allows you to feel the ground more when lifting weights, so you remain stable and balanced under heavy loads.
Training shoes with a higher heel drop are fine for lifting light weights or doing bodyweight movements. However, they aren’t ideal for training close to your one-rep maxes because you can’t transfer as much force from the ground while wearing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Run in CrossFit Shoes?
You can run short distances in CrossFit shoes, but you shouldn’t wear them for long runs. While CrossFit shoes have some cushioning, it’s not enough to keep your feet comfortable for several miles. Three miles is likely the longest you can run in them before your feet and leg muscles start to ache.
How Are CrossFit Shoes Supposed to Fit?
CrossFit trainer shoes should fit snugly enough that your feet don’t slip around but loosely enough that your feet don’t cramp during your workout. There should also be about 0.2 to 0.5 inches of space at the end of the toe box so your toes don’t rub against the end of the shoe.
Can You Wear CrossFit Shoes Every Day?
It is possible to wear CrossFit shoes every day, though how comfortable they are for non-workout activities will vary. CrossFit shoes don’t have a lot of cushioning and have hard soles, so they may cause discomfort if you’re on your feet a lot. A walking or running shoe may be better to walk around in all day.
Should I Wear Socks With My CrossFit Shoes?
You should wear socks with CrossFit shoes. Even though most CrossFit shoes have breathable materials, moisture-wicking socks can keep your feet dry and comfortable. Socks also add an extra layer between the skin on your feet and the shoe’s material, which can help prevent blisters.
Are CrossFit Shoes Worth It?
CrossFit shoes are worth it. Unlike other sport-specific shoes like running or weightlifting shoes, they're designed to handle static and dynamic movements. CrossFit shoes also feature materials and technologies that enhance their durability, which is important for high-impact and high-intensity workouts.
Final Thoughts: What Are the Best Shoes for CrossFit?
The best CrossFit shoes are the Nike Metcon 8s. They have a firm rubber outsole for good traction and stability when lifting weights but a small amount of cushioning to absorb impacts from running and jumping. They’re also durable shoes that can withstand even the toughest CrossFit WODs.
If you’re looking for more of a minimalist shoe, consider the Xero 360. A zero-millimeter heel-to-toe drop offers a barefoot training experience that feels more natural than working out in heavier, bulkier sneakers.
About The Author
Amanda is a writer and editor in the fitness and nutrition industries. Growing up in a family that loved sports, she learned the importance of staying active from a young age. She started CrossFit in 2015, which led to her interest in powerlifting and weightlifting. She's passionate about helping women overcome their fear of lifting weights and teaching them how to fuel their bodies properly. When she's not training in her garage gym or working, you can find her drinking coffee, walking her dog, or indulging in one too many pieces of chocolate.