Best Reebok Shoes for CrossFit (Expert-Tested)

Reebok’s partnership with CrossFit began in 2010 and sparked the rise of their specialized CrossFit shoes, which led to the iconic Nano series. Athletes from CrossFit provided direct input for each of the dozen iterations that reached the market. Different features distinguish the latest Reebok CrossFit shoes. Athletes can make informed training choices through this expert-tested breakdown of best Reebok shoes for CrossFit that dissects their unique features, performance metrics, and ground effectiveness.

Reebok Nano X4: Best Reebok CrossFit Shoe

The Reebok Nano X4 is a top pick for enthusiasts who want versatile training footwear. This model balances stability with mobility for workouts of all types. It’s one of the lightest and most breathable Nanos yet.

Key Features and Design

Reebok shows its steadfast dedication to making better products through several standout design elements in the X4. The shoe weighs just under 12 oz for a men’s US size 9, which is a big deal as it means that Reebok removed extra bulk without losing structural strength. The upgraded Flexweave upper is a major step forward, offering improved breathability and enhanced durability. The X4 builds on this with strategic midfoot ventilation panels that allow your feet to breathe more efficiently, extra toe area ventilation to keep your feet cool during intense workouts, and a more refined external heel clip that boosts stability during heavy lifts.

The X4’s design centers around the improved Lift and Run (L.A.R.) Chassis system – an internal midsole plate technology that adapts as you work out. This smart system expands into a dome shape to cushion your runs and flattens out to keep you stable while lifting. Floatride Energy Foam in the midsole gives you responsive cushioning without losing stability. This feature really shines during explosive exercises with great energy return.

Durability & Performance

The Nano X4 works great for many training styles. Weightlifters get rock-solid stability with a grounded feel. Your feet stay close to the floor with just enough cushion to handle high-impact moves. Athletes have pushed these shoes to the limit with 500+ lb deadlifts and 400+ lb squats. The X4 really shows its versatility in CrossFit movements. The outsole uses quality rubber with extra reinforcement in high-wear spots. Ropepro technology on the sides helps you grip better during rope climbs. You’ll get excellent traction on all gym surfaces, from rubber mats to artificial turf.

These shoes handle cardio well for short distances. While they’re not made for long runs, you can comfortably do sprint intervals up to 1-2 miles. The X4 moves smoothly between exercises, making it perfect for circuit training and HIIT workouts. Lab tests show the outsole lasts longer than expected, even under tough conditions. The rubber is 3.9 mm thick – average for cross-training shoes but built to last.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

The X4 takes comfort to a new level. The redesigned upper fits your foot’s shape better and lets you move smoothly without constant adjustments. Extra padding around the ankle keeps your heel locked in place during dynamic moves.

Most people with narrow to medium-width feet find the X4 fits true to size. Those with wider feet might want to go up half a size. The toe box is a bit more tapered than older models, which makes it snugger around your pinky toe. You won’t need much time to break these shoes in. The flexible front lets your toes spread naturally during lifts while staying supported. Better ventilation keeps your feet cool – fixing an issue some users had with older Nanos.

Price Point and Value Analysis

The X4 costs between $140-$150 (prices vary by color), which is less than the typical $150 for high-end training shoes. You get great value with all the advanced features and versatility. These shoes are built to last. Users say their old Nanos lasted over a year of hard training. Quality materials and solid construction mean the X4 should keep this tradition going, making it worth the money long-term.

Comparison With Nike Metcon 9

The X4 has clear advantages over its main rival, the Nike Metcon 9. A size 10 X4 weighs 12.35 oz while the Metcon 9 is heavier at 13.55 oz. The X4’s ventilated design also keeps your feet cooler than the Metcon’s heavier build. The X4 handles different workout styles better than the Metcon 9. While the Metcon 9 is great for pure lifting with its 4mm drop, the X4’s 7mm drop and L.A.R. system make it better for mixed workouts.

The X4’s flexible front helps with explosive moves and running. The Metcon 9’s stiff heel can feel uncomfortable during cardio-heavy sessions. The Reebok Nano X4 shows how cross-training shoes have grown to meet the needs of today’s varied workout styles. It brings together stability, comfort, and versatility in one package.

Reebok Nano 2.0: Performance at a Value Price

Reebok Nano 2.0, first launched in 2012 and brought back in 2023, holds a special place in the CrossFit community. Many call it one of the best CrossFit shoes ever made. This classic model still amazes users with its simple design and solid performance at a great price.

Key Features and Design

The Nano 2.0 proves that less is more with its simple build. A dense EVA foam midsole sits at its heart, offering light cushioning and rock-solid stability for heavy lifts. The low-profile base creates a grounded feel. The heel stack measures just 18.1mm and forefoot stack 15.3mm – about 6.5mm thinner at the heel than typical training shoes. The shoe’s open-hole mesh upper stands out for its breathability. Lab tests gave it a perfect 5/5 breathability score. You can see the large ventilation holes without any magnification, which lets air flow freely through the material.

Reebok added DuraGrip toe protection to shield the mesh during tough workouts. The outsole comes with ROPEPRO technology and midfoot “teeth” that grip well during rope climbs. The Nano 2.0 weighs 10.1 ounces (286g), making it lighter than regular cross-trainers that average 11.2 ounces (317g). This light build helps it stay quick and versatile during training.

Durability & Performance

The shoe’s firm, stable platform makes it great for lifting. Tests show the dense EVA foam midsole can handle weights over 400 lbs. The minimal cushioning and low 2.8mm drop (officially listed as 4mm) give excellent ground feel, which helps with Olympic lifts and powerlifting moves. The Nano 2.0 handles different workout demands well. Lab tests show it needs just 11.3N of force to bend 90 degrees – much less than the average 22.5N for similar trainers. This flexibility makes it feel athletic during explosive moves and transitions.

The upper material raises some durability concerns. Tests gave the toebox a low 1/5 durability score. Many users avoid rope climbs in these shoes or change their technique to protect the upper. The outsole grips well on different surfaces thanks to its standard rubber hardness (82.4 HA) and thicker-than-average 5.1mm build. This combo offers good traction while lasting reasonably long.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

The Nano 2.0’s toe box really sets it apart. It measures 87.5mm wide at the big toe – much roomier than the average training shoe’s 78.8mm. Athletes with wider feet love this extra space. Most users say the shoe fits true to size lengthwise, though some suggest half-size changes based on foot width. Narrow-footed athletes might want to size down, while those with wide feet usually find their regular size works well.

The tongue isn’t attached to the sides and tends to slide during workouts. The padded interior with its 5.4mm thick tongue feels comfortable without bulk. New users often notice the firm cushioning right away. While this works great for stable lifts, it’s not ideal for long runs or high-impact moves.

Price Point and Value Analysis

The $120 price tag hits a sweet spot for CrossFit shoes. You save $20 compared to the newer Nano X3 ($140), which makes it a great deal if you want proven performance over new features. These shoes’ versatility adds to their value. One reviewer put it well: “If I had to pick just one pair to use, or was taking shoes on vacation, it would without a doubt be the Reebok CrossFit Nanos”.

Athletes looking for one shoe that does it all really appreciate this versatility. Value depends on how you use them. Some people still use their 2014 pairs for casual workouts. Others worry about toe box durability in newer versions. Your training style and habits affect how long these shoes last.

Reddit Opinions On Reebok Nano 2.0

Reddit users love the Nano 2.0, with many CrossFitters calling it “the best CF shoe ever”. The wide toe box gets lots of praise, especially from people who struggle to find shoes that fit. Reddit talks often compare original releases to re-releases. One user shared: “I’ve used them for plenty of rope climbs with no issue. Yes, they may not be quite as durable for climbs compared to new shoes but they didn’t get shredded”.

Users keep coming back to how versatile these shoes are. A Redditor explained why they like them: “For me personally what I like most about them is: The wide toe box – I think nanos and metcons have slowly gotten more narrow… Firm sole… Lightweight… Breathable”. Some people mention heel durability issues in newer versions. But many long-time fans have great experiences with multiple pairs. One said: “I have 7 pairs of the Nano 2.0s and have zero issues with any of them”.

Reebok Nano X3: Best for Varied WODs

The Reebok Nano X3 launched in February 2023 as the 13th shoe in the popular Nano series. This latest version balances stability and adaptability for CrossFit workouts. The shoe bridges the gap between lifting and running footwear through its innovative design.

Key Features and Design

The revolutionary Lift and Run (L.A.R.) Chassis System sits at the X3’s core. This system adapts to different movements – the heel stiffens during heavy lifts and softens for dynamic exercises. Lab tests show the midsole’s Floatride Energy Foam is 33% softer in the heel and 5% firmer in the forefoot, which creates balanced performance.

The heel stack measures 27mm while the forefoot sits at 19.4mm. This creates a 7.6mm heel-to-toe drop (listed as 7mm). Athletes with limited ankle mobility benefit from this higher drop during squats. Notable improvements include a stronger FlexWeave upper that enhances durability, a new tread pattern that delivers better grip across surfaces, an upgraded ROPEPRO+ medial rope guard for improved performance during rope climbs, and a redesigned heel clip that adds extra stability during lifts and dynamic movements.

Durability & Performance

The X3 performs well across different training styles. Weightlifters get solid support from the stiff heel counter (4/5 stiffness rating). The shoe strikes a perfect balance with moderate flexibility (2/5 lengthwise, 3/5 twisting) – stiff enough for heavy lifts yet flexible for quick movements.

These shoes handle cardio well, especially runs up to 800 meters. One user shared: “I prefer the Nano X3s for running over my old Nano 8s. They have a little higher heel drop and cushion”. Longer distances still need dedicated running shoes. The 4.6mm outsole thickness beats the average 3.9mm, suggesting great durability. The X3 weighs 352 grams – heavier than both the X2 (307g) and X1 (312g). This extra weight might affect longer workouts.

Comfort and Fit Considerations

Average-width feet find true-to-size fitting in the X3. The tight FlexWeave upper grips feet securely, fixing movement issues from earlier models. Narrow-footed users love this snug fit. The X3 shines in breathability. Lab tests confirm excellent ventilation that keeps feet cool during intense workouts. A wide toe box lets toes spread naturally during lifts.

The shoes start quite stiff. One tester noted: “The shoe is great out of the box for lifting; but…comes rigid both in the upper and outsole”. Multi-directional movements become easier after breaking them in. Some users mention heel slip problems. A reviewer observed: “My heel slips more in the X3 than the X2. I suspect this is due to changes in the design of the heel clip”.

Price Point and Value Analysis

The X3 launched at $140, placing it mid-range in training shoes. This price sits $20 above the retro Nano 2.0 ($120) while offering newer technology. The shoe’s value comes from its versatility. You can switch between different training styles without changing shoes. One reviewer summed it up: “The Reebok Nano X3 is one of the best shoes for CrossFit because of its balance between running and lifting”.

Reddit Opinions On Reebok Nano X3

Reddit users share mixed experiences. Many praise the running comfort for short distances: “Fairly comfortable, love my X3s. I also have a medium to narrow foot so they fit nice”. Another confirms: “For short runs, 800 meters or less. Fairly comfortable”. Some users raise durability concerns. One Redditor noted: “Every other nano gave up very quickly…the glue holding the gum sole on seems to have aged. The shoes have zero wear but the sole is coming away”. Sizing discussions pop up often. Users debate whether to size down since the shoes tend to stretch over time.

Choosing the Right Reebok CrossFit Shoe

Picking the right CrossFit shoe means knowing your workout style and how different Reebok models handle various exercises. The best Reebok shoes for CrossFit aren’t just about getting the newest model – you’ll need to match the shoe’s features with your fitness goals.

Assessing Your CrossFit Priorities and Weaknesses

Your training style sets the foundation to pick the ideal Reebok CrossFit shoe:

• Lifting-Focused Athletes: Athletes who mostly lift heavy weights should look for models with firmer, denser midsoles and minimal heel-to-toe drop. The Nano 2.0’s low profile design gives you great stability.
• Cardio/HIIT Emphasis: Athletes who run or jump a lot will love shoes with Floatride Energy Foam. The Nano X3 and X4 protect against impact while staying stable enough for other moves.
• Rope Climb Frequency: If you climb ropes often, look for models with reliable ROPEPRO technology. All but one of these Nano versions work great on ropes. The Nano X and X2 didn’t hold up well during rope climbs.

Your foot shape matters too. Athletes with flat feet might not like the Nano X4’s stock insole because it has a small bump on the inner side.

Sizing and Fit Guide for Reebok CrossFit Shoes

Reebok uses heel-to-toe measurements to size their shoes, and here’s the quickest way to find your perfect fit: Place a piece of paper on a hard floor against a wall, then stand on it with your heel touching the wall. Mark the spot where your longest toe ends, measure the distance to that mark in inches, and compare it to Reebok’s size chart to find your correct shoe size.

A men’s size 10 measures about 10.7 inches from heel to toe. Women’s sizes run about 1.5 sizes bigger than men’s (a men’s 9 equals a women’s 10.5). Most Reebok CrossFit shoes come in medium width. The Nano X4’s toebox is 99.4mm at its widest – standard for cross-trainers but smaller than the Metcon 9’s 108.0mm. The Nano 2.0 gives you the most toebox room, which works great for wider feet.

Breaking-in Period and Expectations

Each model needs different break-in time. The Nano X3 takes longest to break in – it starts stiff but gets better after a few weeks of wear. The Nano X4 feels comfortable right away for most people.

Models with higher backs like the X1 might bug your heel at first. One athlete said: “It took some time for me, but it is not rubbing on my heel anymore after around a month.” Tall socks help during this period.

When to Replace Your Reebok CrossFit Shoes

Research from the National Strength and Conditioning Association shows athletic shoes lose about 50% of their cushioning after 300-500 miles. CrossFit athletes should replace their shoes every six months with regular use because intense workouts wear them down faster. The OMU method helps you know when to replace:

• O (Outsole): Replace if the outsole shows lots of lipping on the toe, peeling, or loses grip
• M (Midsole): Time for new shoes when the midsole looks compressed or leans to one side
• U (Upper): Get new ones when upper damage affects how they feel or perform

Watch for visible creasing in the middle, compressed cushioning, and shoes that don’t feel the same anymore. Quick replacement stops you from moving differently and risking injury. Check your shoes every few months. Look at the midsole from the side, not just the bottom.

Best Reebok Women-Specific Shoes for CrossFit

Reebok makes specialized CrossFit footwear that meets women athletes’ unique training needs. These women-specific models go beyond generic cross-trainers with design elements that boost performance in workouts of all types. Women’s training shoes from Reebok strike a perfect balance between “freedom of motion, stability and versatility” with “plenty of comfort”. This balance matters because women’s bodies move differently during CrossFit movements. Their footwear must adapt to these differences while delivering peak performance.

The Reebok Nano X3 shines when women switch between lifting and cardio-intensive workouts. This shoe comes with a “Flexweave knit upper for breathability and support” and an “EVA foam midsole for responsive cushioning”. The “wide toe box for natural toe splay” solves a common problem that many female athletes face with regular training shoes. Female athletes get the best out of Reebok’s advanced tech features during intense CrossFit sessions. Several women’s models feature Reebok Flexweave technology that delivers “enhanced breathability, flexibility and durability”. The innovative “figure-8 open weave” design provides “precision cushioning for comfort and support” while staying lightweight.

Side-to-side movements are the life-blood of CrossFit programming. Reebok designs women’s training shoes specifically for “lateral strides, pace changes and sudden transitions”. The reinforced midfoot and strategic outsole prevent excessive pronation that women often experience during lateral movements. Women’s foot structure requires specific design adaptations. Regular training shoes don’t deal very well with women’s foot structure. Reebok’s women’s CrossFit shoes feature:

• Proportionally wider forefoot relative to heel dimensions
• Modified arch support patterns
• Heel counter designs that prevent slippage without causing friction
• Weight distribution optimized for women’s biomechanics

The Reebok Nano series excels for female CrossFit athletes with designs “crafted with cross trainers’ every move in mind”. The collection adapts to women’s specific needs from “runs to jumps to lifts and climbs and everything in between”. Female athletes say these women-specific models eliminate the usual trade-off between stability and comfort. Reebok has created footwear that works as “an ideal training partner” whatever the workout intensity or focus by meeting women’s CrossFit training needs.

[Related: Best NOBULL Shoes for CrossFit]

Comparison of Best Reebok Shoes

Model	Nano X4	Nano 2.0	Nano X3
Price	$140-150	$120	$140
Weight	12 oz (men’s size 9)	10.1 oz (286g)	352g (12.4 oz)
Key Features	L.A.R. Chassis system, Floatride Energy Foam, Enhanced airflow panels	Dense EVA foam midsole, DuraGrip toe protection, ROPEPRO technology	L.A.R. Chassis System, Floatride Energy Foam, ROPEPRO+
Best For	Complete CrossFit workouts, varied training sessions	Heavy lifting, basic training approach	Balanced support, runs up to 800m
Breathability	Advanced airflow design	Perfect score (5/5)	Outstanding air circulation
Heel-to-toe Drop	7mm	2.8mm (claimed 4mm)	7.6mm (claimed 7mm)
Notable Characteristics	Weighs less than similar models, smooth exercise transitions	Wide toe box (87.5mm), minimal cushioning	Higher stack height (27mm heel/19.4mm forefoot), needs breaking in

Final Verdict – Which One to Choose?

Expert testing and evaluation show that picking the best Reebok CrossFit shoe comes down to your training goals and physical traits. The Reebok Nano X4 stands out as the best all-around choice for most CrossFit athletes. This $140 shoe hits the sweet spot between performance and price. It offers better cushioning and weighs less than earlier versions. Athletes who switch between different workout types will love the X4’s better breathability and lighter build. The shoe works great when you need to switch between lifting and cardio quickly.

The classic Nano 2.0 gives you great value at $120. It scores perfectly in breathability and has an extra-wide toe box. Athletes with wider feet or those who want a minimalist feel during lifts prefer this model. The 2.0 really shines when your CrossFit routine focuses on Olympic lifting and powerlifting moves. The Nano X3 costs the same as the X4 at $140 and sits right in the middle. Its Lift and Run Chassis system handles different workout needs well. This makes it a solid pick for athletes who run a lot in their sessions. The X3 weighs more than both the X4 and 2.0, which you might notice during longer workouts.

Here’s how to pick the right shoe:

• Go for the X4 if you want a shoe that handles all movements well
• Pick the 2.0 if you have wider feet or want more stability for lifting
• Choose the X3 if you need adaptive cushioning between exercises

Note that sizing can vary – many users found the X4 runs small and needed to go up half a size. Your body mechanics should guide your choice. The best Reebok CrossFit shoes will match your movement style and training focus.