Is anything more demanding on footwear than a CrossFit workout? We doubt it. Your CrossFit shoes have to cope with a lot, because of the varied and challenging nature of the HIIT-meets-lifting workouts with running and callisthenics thrown in. That means you need elements from the best gym trainers, the best weightlifting shoes and even the best running shoes. When you’re crushing your workout of the day (WOD), the last thing you want to be thinking about is your shoes, so it pays to make sure they’re up to the job.
“Versatility is the key factor when it comes to shoes for CrossFit,” says Nico Salton, the head coach at CrossFit London. “Your shoes need to be cushioned enough for running, box jumps and burpees, yet stable enough for lifting.”
What else should you look for when shopping for CrossFit shoes? “The shoe should have a large toe box so your toes can spread out when lifting,” says Salton. “The heel needs to slide well on the wall during handstand push-ups and the side of the shoe needs to have a rugged texture to provide grip during rope climbs.”
We asked coaches at some of the UK’s top CrossFit boxes which shoes they use and why, drawing on their first-hand experience to help you choose the best CrossFit shoes for you.
The Best CrossFit Shoes
The latest Nano offers more support for lifting and a tough exterior improves durability during rope climbs and other contact moves, while more cushioning makes them suitable for running and for wearing all-day.
“It’s Nanos for me,” says Alex Allen of CrossFit Glasgow. “They are pretty durable and comfy.”
“Although the Nano is not my go-to at the moment, I do find them best for running,” says Harry Hanford of CrossFit London.
Read more in our Reebok Nano X2 review
Featuring a lifting stabiliser in the heel and a graphene-enhanced outsole for extra grip, the versatile F-Lite G 300 is Inov8’s top CrossFit shoe.
“The Inov8 F-Lite G 300 is my current go-to,” says Martin Fishwick of CrossFit Glasgow. “I can lift, run and jump easily in them. I find they’re a better all-rounder than the Nobulls and Nano Xs I had before. They’re comfy enough if you’re on your feet for long stretches of coaching, too.”
“I look for stability when lifting, comfiness for running, box jumps and so on, and durability,” says Harry Hanford of CrossFit London. “My go-to at the moment is the Metcon 7. It’s the best for moderate to heavy lifting as I find it the most stable.”
This redesigned version of the Nano was created in collaboration with CrossFit Games champion Rich Froning, featuring a sock-style upper and an elastic lace system.
“The CF shoes that I'm using the most at the minute are the Reebok Nano X1 Froning,” says Nico Salton, the head coach at CrossFit London. “They offer good ankle support, and with no traditional laces there’s no problem mid-WOD, especially during rope climbs. They have a large toe box so are comfortable and are more rigid and stable than the previous Nanos – perfect for Olympic lifts at light to moderate load.”
“Another favourite for me is the R.A.D One,” says Hanford. “It’s cushioned, stable and durable – it can cope with all the different CrossFit movements and is very comfy.”
The F-Lite 260 is lightweight with a breathable knit upper, and has a met-cradle for stability and a protective toe bumper.
“They’re a good all-rounder: nice and flat for lifting, surprisingly good for running and a really good fit,” says Khi Leonard of CrossFit Glasgow.
“I find them very comfortable,” says Niko Gergov of CrossFit Glasgow. “The bonus is that they’re so breathable that you don’t get stinky feet in them after a long day of coaching.”
With its durable, breathable Flexweave outer layer and wide toe box, the Nano 8 remains a popular choice among CrossFitters.
“I find Nano 8s are best for training,” says Viv Henry of CrossFit Glasgow. “They do what you want them to do in most things including rope climbs, which is rare.”
“They’re comfortable, supportive and great for all movements, even running,” says Christine McFarlane of CrossFit Glasgow. “And best of all they’re machine washable.”
More About CrossFit
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