Best NOBULL Shoes for CrossFit (Expert-Tested)

Two former Reebok employees started NOBULL in 2014 and managed to keep an excellent record of creating durable training footwear. Athletes often get years of reliable use from these shoes under intense training conditions, despite their price range of $129 to $169. Their signature models come with a 4mm heel-to-toe drop that provides stability during lifts. The wide toe box lets athletes position their feet correctly when performing complex movements. This article looks at the best NOBULL shoes for CrossFit and compares their features, performance capabilities, and what users say about them. Athletes can make better choices for their training needs based on these insights.

NOBULL Outwork: Best NOBULL Shoe

The NOBULL Outwork trainer stands as the cornerstone of the brand’s CrossFit footwear lineup. This model hasn’t changed much since its 2015 release – proof of how well it works as one of the best CrossFit shoes you can buy today.

Key Features and Design

The NOBULL Outwork takes a minimalist approach that maximizes function. Its one-piece SuperFabric® upper delivers exceptional durability without adding extra weight. A men’s size 9 weighs only 11oz (311.8g), making it 9.5% lighter than typical training shoes that weigh 11.5oz.The shoe comes with a 4mm heel-to-toe drop that creates a solid lifting base while letting you move freely during mixed workouts. High-carbon rubber makes up the outsole with a circular tread pattern that grips well in CrossFit environments.

On top of that, it features a stack height of 11/15mm to keep you stable, a wider toe box that positions your foot correctly during lifts, a perforated microsuede tongue that allows your feet to breathe, and a Phylon (EVA) midsole material that cushions your steps for added comfort. Lab tests show the Outwork bends 16.9% more easily than regular training shoes, yet its midsole stays 24% firmer – perfect for CrossFit’s mixed demands.

Durability & Performance

These shoes last incredibly long even under tough use. One person used their pair for about 400 workouts over 19 months with barely any wear. The SuperFabric® upper and thick 4.8mm outsole – as sturdy as trail running shoes – make this possible. The Outwork shines in moderate weightlifting with its flat, stable base, excels in rope climbs thanks to its durable grip that resists wear, offers reliable traction across different surfaces like wood floors, rubber mats, and outdoor terrain, and delivers the stability needed for standard CrossFit movements.

The heel area stays particularly firm, helping with squats and Olympic lifts. The front part still bounces back enough for jumps and toe movements. People have even used these for powerlifting – one user “had no issue squatting 440 lbs in them”. But these shoes have their limits. They work for many things but don’t match specialized weightlifting shoes for heavy Olympic lifts. The flat design also makes it hard for some people to position their toes right during jumping exercises.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

Most people find the NOBULL Outwork fits true to size, though it depends on foot shape. The wide toe box helps lifters spread their toes during heavy lifts but might feel too roomy if you have narrow feet.

You’ll need to break these in, but users say they become “shockingly comfortable once you get moving in them”. People with flat feet or specific foot issues might struggle with the minimal arch support. Breathability remains a big issue. Lab tests couldn’t get smoke or light through the upper, scoring just 1 out of 5. Many users say their feet get too hot during intense workouts.

Price Point and Value Analysis

Standard colors cost $149, while special editions run up to $159 – putting these shoes in the premium category. Regular cross-training shoes usually cost around $100. Some people question if such a simple design deserves the high price. Others say the long life makes them worth it. Since many pairs last several years of regular use, they might save you money over time. The one-year warranty from NOBULL adds extra value protection.

Reddit Opinions On NOBULL Outwork

Reddit shows split opinions about the Outwork. One user puts it well: “The people who like these shoes really like them, and the people who don’t like them really don’t like them”. People love the Outwork for its impressive durability—many calling it “the most durable shoes I’ve ever owned”—along with the stable feel during lifting and the clean looks that transition easily from the gym to everyday wear.

However, some complaints include poor breathability that can lead to smell issues, toe box discomfort for certain foot shapes, initial stiffness when breaking them in, and less-than-ideal performance for running or high-impact movements. Sizing comes up often in discussions. Several users suggest going up a size, especially for wider feet. One Redditor shared: “I find NOBULL do run small and narrow and if I was buying another pair I might well go up a size”.

NOBULL Impact: Enhanced Stability for Heavy Lifts

The NOBULL Impact builds on its original trainer design and stands as the premium offering in their CrossFit shoe lineup. This upgraded version comes with substantial design improvements that boost overall performance.

Key Features and Design

What sets the NOBULL Impact apart from its predecessor is its advanced cushioning system. You’ll find an EVA midsole that’s roughly twice as thick as the Outwork, which gives you better shock absorption during high-impact workouts. The shoe keeps the same 4mm heel-to-toe drop but adds much more cushioning underfoot. The platform is about 10% wider than the Outwork, which creates a rock-solid base for your lifts. A completely redesigned herringbone tread pattern with deep grooves gives you excellent grip on surfaces of all types.

The shoe’s standout features include a toe flip that aids in explosive takeoffs and landings, a vertical herringbone sole pattern that supports natural stride movement, 360-degree rope guards that enhance grip during rope climbs, and a new lace system with internal webbings designed to improve lateral stability. Athletes who need extra stability during complex movements might prefer the mid-top version, which offers more ankle support than its low-top counterpart.

Durability & Performance

NOBULL’s reputation for durability shines through in the Impact. The shoe features their signature SuperFabric® upper—a seamless, one-piece design with ceramic guard plates over a flexible mesh base that protects against wear and tear from all angles. Performance tests show that the Impact really delivers with rock-solid stability for moderate to heavy lifting, excellent cushioning for plyometric moves and short runs, and a solid grip across surfaces like wood floors, rubber mats, and outdoor turf.

One athlete used these shoes for about 400 workouts over 19 months with barely any wear, calling them “the most durable shoes I’ve ever owned.” The carbon rubber soles start off quite firm but break in nicely without losing their stability. These shoes handle CrossFit movements like wall balls, kettlebell work, and strength training beautifully. Some users mention that the higher stack height makes deadlifts a bit trickier compared to the flatter Outwork model.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

The NOBULL Impact needs some breaking in because of its robust construction. Once broken in, athletes say these shoes feel supportive and comfortable. The redesigned last makes the Impact slightly wider than the Outwork—good news for athletes with wider feet or those using custom insoles.

Extra comfort comes from the perforated microsuede tongue’s added foam layer and beefed-up heel and collar padding. The anatomical sockliner provides decent support, though the SuperFabric upper trades some breathability for its amazing durability. Most athletes say the Impact runs true to size with a “neutral width.” The shoe provides minimal arch support, so custom inserts might be worth looking into if you have specific foot needs.

Price Point and Value Analysis

The NOBULL Impact retails at $149, same as the standard Outwork model. However, it’s in the premium CrossFit shoe category, reflecting its extra features and enhanced cushioning system. Many athletes see the Impact as money well spent, thanks to its incredible durability and versatility. The shoe works as a hybrid model—stable enough for lifting but cushioned enough for cardio work—so you might not need multiple specialized shoes. NOBULL’s standard one-year warranty adds extra peace of mind to your investment.

Reddit Opinions On NOBULL Impact

The Impact gets mostly positive reviews on Reddit for CrossFit training. One user called them “wonderful” after multiple workouts, noting their effectiveness for both lifting and fitness routines. Reddit users often highlight the Impact’s versatility compared to the original Outwork, noting that “the NOBULL Impact has more cushioning and falls better into the ‘hybrid’ category” and that “the NOBULL Impacts are slightly more versatile—and they’re much better for my needs because of it,” while some also mention that “the Trainer Plus are my favorite CrossFit shoe.”

Not everyone loves them though. The main complaints focus on weight and running performance. One Redditor said, “These shoes are not good to run in. They’re a little heavier than I might like.” Another mentioned they “find the Trainer+ shoes to basically be two bricks on my feet” and wouldn’t choose them for running or jumping. The general consensus points to the Impact being ideal for athletes who want lifting stability but need more cushioning than typical flat training shoes provide.

NOBULL High-Top Models: Added Ankle Support

NOBULL makes high-top versions of their popular CrossFit shoes that give athletes more ankle stability without losing performance. These taller models stand out from the rest of the brand’s training shoes.

Key Features and Design

NOBULL High-Tops share the same basic design as regular models but come with a taller upper that covers more of the ankle. The higher cut gives your ankles extra support during lifts. Just like standard versions, you’ll find a 4mm heel-to-toe drop and an 11/15 stack height that keeps you stable.

The main design features include a one-piece SuperFabric® upper that extends above the ankle, a carbon rubber outsole with circular treads for excellent grip, a Phylon (EVA) midsole that cushions your feet, a wide toe box that allows your feet to spread naturally, and a microsuede tongue with ventilation holes to help your feet breathe. The original Outwork High-Top has circular treads, while the Edge version comes with a herringbone pattern that grips better in different directions. A men’s size 9 weighs 12.04oz (341.3g), making them a bit heavier than low-tops.

Durability & Performance

These high-tops live up to NOBULL’s reputation for toughness. One reviewer called the SuperFabric® upper “practically indestructible” because it doesn’t scratch or wear down easily. The one-piece design means no weak spots where stitches might tear. The shoes really shine in certain training situations:

The extra ankle support makes a huge difference for strength work. A user said “They are perfect for lunges and squats, giving you great ankle stability”. Someone else found their “power movements have become easier” with “more natural” patterns. Athletes love the flat, solid base for lifting. The shoes handle heavy squats and deadlifts well. One person mentioned they work best with “a lifting bias” and really help with compound exercises.

The shoes do have some limits. The high ankle can restrict movement sometimes. A reviewer pointed out: “When fully laced, I’ve found that the higher boot can feel a tad limiting at times, especially when it comes to achieving a full range of motion at the ankle”. That’s why many people skip them for running workouts or moves that need lots of ankle flexibility.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

The shoes fit snug by design, and some people go up half a size from their usual shoe size. Getting the right fit matters even more with the high top, since you need to loosen several laces to put them on comfortably.

People who find the right fit usually love how comfortable these shoes feel. The shaped insole cushions well, and the high-top design doesn’t dig into ankles like other similar shoes. A Reddit user said, “I don’t have the issue of some high tops where they dig into your ankle”. Some people find them comfortable right away while others need time to break them in. People with wider feet might feel squeezed in the middle at first, but the shoes usually stretch out over time.

Price Point and Value Analysis

These high-tops cost $159.00, which is $10 more than regular Outwork trainers. That puts them at the top end of CrossFit shoe prices, especially compared to cheaper options like Converse All-Stars or Vans Sk8-His that many lifters wear.

The value comes from how long they last and what they can do. They come with a one-year warranty, and lots of users say they hold up through “100s of workouts”. Serious athletes might find the higher price worth it since they won’t need new shoes as often. The shoes work great both in and out of the gym, which adds to their value. One reviewer said, “I love how the Outwork High-Top looks when wearing jeans and casually”.

Reddit Opinions On NOBULL High-Top Models

Reddit users mostly like NOBULL High-Tops, though the reviews are mixed. Many people appreciate them not just for workouts but also for everyday wear, with comments like “I bought them specifically because I thought they’d look cool with khakis for work. They do,” “I rotate regularly between my lows and highs,” and “Love them for everything, no break-in period.”

Most people say they’re best for lifting workouts, though some mention they “prefer low tops for majority of workouts especially running”. Others find them “great for lifting days and as a casual shoe for errands”. Some complaints talk about quality issues compared to older models: “The quality of the shoes has gone down, this is my 5th pair of NOBULL shoes”. Still, most people agree these high-tops work great for CrossFit athletes who want more ankle support and lifting stability over maximum movement.

Choosing the Right NOBULL CrossFit Shoe

Picking the right NOBULL shoes depends on your training style. Each model serves a specific purpose in CrossFit workouts. You’ll get better performance and longer-lasting shoes by knowing your workout needs, getting the right size, and taking good care of them.

Assessing Your CrossFit Priorities and Weaknesses

Your choice of NOBULL shoes starts with a clear look at how you train. Athletes who focus on stability for heavy lifts will find the original Outwork gives them a solid, steady base without compression issues. The Impact model works better for people who do more dynamic movements because it has thicker cushioning.

Here’s what to look for based on your training:

• Lifting-focused training – Choose the Outwork model for its flat, stable base with minimal cushioning
• High-intensity interval training – The Impact works best with its improved shock absorption
• Ankle mobility concerns – High-top versions give you extra stability
• Multi-directional activities – The Impact’s herringbone tread pattern offers superior traction

Some athletes switch between different CrossFit activities. They might benefit from having multiple pairs of shoes. One expert puts it this way: “If you’re serious about your performance, investing in multiple pairs of shoes—one for lifting, one for running, and one for versatility—might be your best bet”. This approach helps you perform better and makes your shoes last longer.

Sizing and Fit Guide for NOBULL CrossFit Shoes

NOBULL CrossFit shoes usually fit true-to-size with a standard (D) width. Different models have their own fit characteristics: The Outwork has a wider toe box that helps with foot positioning during lifts. People with narrow feet might find it too roomy. Athletes with wide feet should go up half a size, especially with the Canvas Trainer which has less toe box space.

The Impact gives you more width throughout with extra space in the midfoot and forefoot. This makes it a good choice for athletes who use custom insoles or orthotics. High-Top models usually need to be half a size larger than your regular shoes because of their extended collar design. NOBULL’s official advice states: “If you are between sizes in shoes or apparel, we recommend choosing the larger size”. This matters most if you have wide feet or plan to wear thick socks while training.

Breaking-in Period and Expectations

New NOBULL users should expect some adjustment time. The SuperFabric® upper, while super durable, feels stiff at first. Many people say the shoes feel “almost uncomfortable” when they first put them on. During the break-in period, you’ll notice:

The outsole gets slightly softer but stays stable. NOBULL shoes keep their firmness even after lots of use. The upper material molds better to your foot shape over time but never becomes as soft as mesh shoes. One reviewer mentioned that once you start moving, “you don’t notice it at all”. These shoes put function before initial comfort to give you steady support through different movements.

When to Replace Your NOBULL CrossFit Shoes

NOBULL shoes last a long time, but they won’t last forever. Unlike running shoes with their 300-500 mile rule, CrossFit shoes don’t have a clear replacement timeline because everyone uses them differently.

Look for these three key signs, known as the “OMU” check: outsole damage, where you should replace your shoes immediately if you notice toe lipping, peeling, or reduced grip; midsole compression, which calls for new shoes if the midsole appears smaller or starts leaning to one side; and upper deterioration, which, while not as critical, still signals it’s time for a replacement if there’s major damage.

Check your shoes regularly, especially the midfoot area from the side. Too much horizontal creasing or wear at the heel and ball means performance is dropping. Press the outsole occasionally – if it barely compresses, the material has gotten too hard to protect you well. CrossFit athletes who do intense workouts should think about new shoes every six months, even if they look fine. This helps maintain performance and reduces injury risk.

Best NOBULL Women-Specific Shoes for CrossFit

Women’s feet are shaped differently than men’s feet. They usually have narrower heels and wider front areas. NOBULL’s High-Top Trainer works well for women with flat feet. The shoe gives the right arch support to help maintain good form during workouts. These high-tops also protect ankles better, which helps prevent injuries during burpees, jump squats, and side-to-side movements.

Your foot type matters a lot when picking shoes. Buying shoes just because they look good without checking if they match your flat, neutral, or high-arched feet could leave you uncomfortable or hurt. Women who have wider feet should buy one size up in NOBULL trainers. Many users say the regular sizes feel tight even though the toe box claims to be wider.

NOBULL Women’s Models Overview

The women’s NOBULL collection offers these options: Outwork ($149), the first strength training shoe with a SuperFabric® one-piece upper and a circular tread pattern for excellent grip; Outwork Edge/Impact ($149), featuring a better herringbone tread pattern for improved grip on turf and grass; High-Top Models ($159), taller versions of both the Outwork and Edge designs; Drive ($149), available in Knit and Mesh versions to mix training with running; and Allday ($149), an all-purpose shoe with extra cushioning for various activities.

New CrossFit women should pick their shoes based on what they do most. The Outwork models work best for heavy lifting. The Drive series might be better for athletes who need more flexibility.

Real Experience from Women

Good airflow is key for women’s workout performance. NOBULL’s tough, water-resistant outer shell lasts longer but doesn’t breathe as well. Some women say their Trainers needed time to break in. One user found that wearing two pairs of socks at first helped stretch the shoes properly.

The break-in time varies between women. Some found them comfortable right away while others needed several workouts to get the right fit. Many women say their NOBULL shoes helped reduce plantar fasciitis pain with regular use. NOBULL gives women more color choices than most training shoe brands. The nearly indestructible SuperFabric material handles tough workouts for years. That’s why many women choose these shoes even though they cost more.

Comparison Of Best NOBULL Shoes

Model	Price	Weight (Size 9)	Heel-to-toe Drop	Key Features	Best Suited For	Notable Limitations
NOBULL Outwork	$149	11oz (311.8g)	4mm	– One-piece SuperFabric® upper – Stack height 11/15mm – Wide toe box – Circular tread pattern	– Moderate weightlifting – Rope climbs – Standard CrossFit routines	– Limited air flow – Suboptimal for serious Olympic lifting – Struggles with jump-based exercises
NOBULL Impact	$149	Not mentioned	4mm	– Double thickness EVA midsole – Platform 10% broader – Herringbone tread pattern – Complete rope protection	– Medium to heavy lifting – Jump training – Brief running sessions	– Bulkier than regular models – Deadlifts feel less grounded – Running sessions should be limited
NOBULL High-Top	$159	12.04oz (341.3g)	4mm	– Added ankle support – One-piece SuperFabric® upper – Roomier toe area – Original and Edge versions available	– Heavy weight training – Complex lifting moves – Extra ankle protection	– Limited ankle range – Complex to wear and remove – Not ideal for run-focused workouts

Final Verdict – Which One to Choose?

Finding the right NOBULL shoe means matching your CrossFit needs with each model’s strengths. Our testing shows clear patterns that help you pick the best shoe based on your training style. Serious lifters who focus on strength training will love the original NOBULL Outwork’s solid platform. These shoes “stabilize, grip, and last” and give weightlifters the steady base they need. But experts point out they’re “limited usage – lifting only” and won’t work well for athletes who want more flexibility.

The NOBULL Impact strikes a better balance between stability and comfort. Its thicker EVA foam midsole and wider build make it good for different types of workouts. You’ll find it more versatile than the Outwork, perfect for mixing heavy lifts with some cardio. High-Top models give great ankle support but might “limit dorsiflexion slightly when squatting” if you lace them tight. These shoes work best for compound movements and help you stay stable during side-to-side exercises.

NOBULL’s Allday series makes a great all-purpose training shoe with its cushioned midsole and versatile outsole. The company says these shoes are ideal “if you’re after one shoe, and one shoe only” because they’re “versatile, resilient, and designed to handle a lot.” Most reviews suggest avoiding NOBULL shoes for running workouts. One expert puts it simply: “If you’re looking for one training shoe for lifting and running, these are not designed with the proper cushioning for long distance running.”

Your best choice depends on what you want to do. If you’re looking for maximum stability, durability, and focused lifting sessions, the Outwork is your go-to. It’s designed for those who prioritize solid performance in strength training. On the other hand, if you want to balance performance with extra cushioning and a wider fit, the Impact is a great option. It’s versatile and comfortable, offering a hybrid approach for various activities.

If ankle support is a priority for you over full mobility, the High-Tops are the way to go. They provide extra support around the ankle, making them ideal for those who need added protection during intense workouts. Lastly, if you need a shoe that handles different types of training with ease, the Allday or Drive models are perfect. These shoes are built for versatility, offering comfort and durability for various activities.

NOBULL shoes cost more ($129-$169) but last longer than most alternatives. Many users say their pairs hold up for years even with intense training. Athletes who care more about stability and durability than cushioning and running performance will find these shoes worth the investment.