Elite athletes at the 2023 CrossFit Games stepped onto the competition floor wearing TYR CXT-1 Trainers. These best TYR shoes for CrossFit proved their worth in competitive fitness. These TYR CrossFit shoes have earned spots on multiple “best of 2024” lists for gym, cross-training and jumping performance. This detailed review analyzes each TYR CrossFit shoe model’s features, performance, and real-life testing results. The insights will help athletes choose the right shoe for their training needs.
TYR CXT-1 Trainer: Best for Varied WODs
The TYR CXT-1 Trainer has shaken up the CrossFit shoe market. This new contender brings fresh design ideas that make it stand out from the 10-year old brands like Nike Metcon and Reebok Nano. TYR, known mainly for making competitive swimwear, took a bold step with the CXT-1’s unique features that serious athletes love.
Key Features and Design
The CXT-1 Trainer stands out with its 9mm heel-to-toe drop – much higher than what you’ll find in the Nike Metcon 8 (4mm) and Reebok Nano X2 (7mm). Athletes get better squat form and Olympic lifting movement thanks to this raised heel. A patent-pending stability platform gives the shoe amazing ground contact and support. The shoe’s wrap-around side gripper extends to the heel and helps you stay stable when moving in different directions.
TYR packed their Surge NRG foam midsole into the CXT-1. This gives you both bounce and stability. The shoe’s top part uses breathable mesh in the front and middle, while the heel uses stronger materials to keep its shape.
Smart design touches in these shoes include a tough toe guard that resists wear during burpees, ensuring durability through high-intensity movements. The smooth heel tab is ideal for handstand push-ups, providing comfort and ease during inversion. The flexible front part allows for quick, responsive movements, while extra protection for rope climbs is included—though its effectiveness may vary depending on the model. These features enhance performance across a variety of CrossFit exercises.
Durability & Performance
The CXT-1 Trainer shines in many CrossFit movements. Serious lifters can trust these shoes – they handle 500+ lb deadlifts and 400+ lb squats without breaking a sweat. The bouncy midsole cushions your feet during box jumps, double-unders, and short runs (best for distances under 800m). You can move naturally during dynamic exercises because of the flexible front, while your heel stays locked in place.
The shoe’s biggest weakness shows up during rope climbs. Many users say the midfoot outsole wrap breaks after just a few climbing sessions. One person’s shoes got damaged after only 12 rope climbs – something that hadn’t happened with other CrossFit shoes even after hundreds of climbs.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
The toe box gives you more room than Nike Metcons but isn’t super wide. Users don’t agree on the toe box width – some love it, others say it’s too narrow. You’ll notice strong arch support in the CXT-1. It wraps around your midfoot, which feels great if you have high arches but might bother you if you like flatter insoles. The shoe fits true to size for normal-width feet. People with wider feet might want to go up half a size. Some users felt a bump under their pinky toe’s ball, which points to possible insole issues.
Price Point and Value Analysis
You’ll pay between $130-140 for the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, depending on the color. This puts it right up there with other top cross-training shoes. You can pick from black/camo, black/gum, red/white/gum, black/gold, and white/gum colors. The price matches other high-end CrossFit shoes. The rope climb durability issues might make you think twice if you do lots of climbing. But if you mostly lift and do general CrossFit workouts without much rope work, these shoes are worth every penny.
Reddit Opinions On TYR CXT-1 Trainer
Reddit’s CrossFit community mostly likes the CXT-1. Some seasoned athletes call it their best CrossFit shoe ever, especially for squats, cleans, double-unders, and burpees. Athletes with stiff ankles really love the higher heel drop. One person wrote it was “absolutely perfect for me.” Another long-time CrossFitter who tried every Nano and most Metcons ranked the CXT-1 above them all.
Common complaints include poor durability during rope climbs, a narrow toe box that’s uncomfortable for wider feet, and concerns over cheap-looking materials for the price. Even with these issues, many athletes use the CXT-1 as their go-to training shoe. They work best for workouts that mix lifting and varied movements rather than long endurance sessions.
TYR CXT-2 Trainer: The Overall Best
TYR launched the CXT-2 Trainer based on what athletes said about the CXT-1. The new version comes with major upgrades that fix earlier issues while keeping what made the original so popular with CrossFit athletes.
Key Features and Design
The CXT-2 Trainer brings several technical improvements to the table. TYR brought down the heel-to-toe drop from 9mm to 7mm, which makes a more balanced platform for different movements. The shoe now has a stronger TPU stability wrap that gives ultra-durable sides and heel support. The midsole still uses TYR’s ultra-responsive SURGENRG foam that gives great energy return in various movements. The TYRTAC™ outsole grips better and moves more freely than the original.
The shoe’s 4mm wider fit throughout is one of its best improvements. This change came straight from feedback about the CXT-1’s narrow fit. A tougher toe guard helps with toe-dragging exercises, and the breathable engineered mesh upper keeps air flowing during tough workouts. Athletes who love technical movements will like the smooth heel tab that works great for handstand push-ups – a smart touch for CrossFit’s gymnastics moves.
Durability & Performance
The CXT-2 really shines in fixing the durability issues that bugged the CXT-1. The boosted TPU wrap around the midfoot and heel solves the rubber breaking problems that happened during rope climbs. This shoe stands strong during heavy lifts. Athletes have tested it with deadlifts up to 500 pounds, trap bar deadlifts at 405 pounds, and front squats at 275 pounds without any stability worries. The wider build lets toes spread better, which helps create a solid base for heavy lifting.
Expert reviews show the CXT-2 handles CrossFit-specific movements really well. The midsole hits the sweet spot between stability and bounce for barbell cycling, kettlebell work, and walking lunges. The new TPU wrap grips ropes nicely while letting you slide smoothly in handstand push-ups. One small issue shows up on turf – some people slip during heavy sled pushes, mainly with certain colors. Like most CrossFit shoes, the CXT-2 works fine for short runs but isn’t your best choice beyond 800 meters.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
High-density heel foam in the CXT-2 locks down your heel and ankle comfortably. The 4mm wider build gives your toes more room than the CXT-1, which fixes a common gripe about the original. Reviews suggest going up half a size from your CXT-1 size. Even then, athletes with wider feet might find the standard model a bit snug compared to other training shoes.
The thick ankle collar and tongue padding split opinions. Many athletes love the extra cushioning, but some say it needs breaking in to feel natural. People with high-volume feet might need time to break in the thick tongue.
Price Point and Value Analysis
The TYR CXT-2 Trainer costs $155, putting it in the premium training shoe bracket. Sales sometimes drop certain colors to $113-117. You can pick from basic black/white combos or special versions like Jeff Adler’s black/orange design. The detailed improvements over the CXT-1 and better durability make most reviewers see the CXT-2 as worth its price tag.
Reddit Opinions On TYR CXT-2 Trainer
The CrossFit community mostly likes the CXT-2, though opinions vary. Reddit users often say it has “the most comfortable, plush upper in the game, while keeping the flat, stable base you want.” Many call it their go-to CrossFit shoe.
Some more careful reviewers talk about needing time to adjust, especially to the padded ankle collar that “rises a bit too high” for some people. Like pro reviews suggest, many Reddit users recommend sizing up half a size from the CXT-1. About lasting power, one Redditor says: “If you’re doing 4-6 WODs a week, you’ll get a good year out of them unless you absolutely destroy shoes.” This matches what others say about how well these shoes handle different CrossFit moves and training styles.
TYR DropZero: Minimalist Training Option
TYR’s DropZero breaks away from their CXT series’ raised heel design. This minimalist shoe gives you a true barefoot training experience that came to life through collaboration with Squat University. CrossFit athletes who want natural foot positioning and ground feedback now have a zero-drop alternative.
Key Features and Design
The DropZero’s standout feature is its 0mm heel-to-toe drop that lets your feet move naturally and connects you better with training surfaces. Unlike CXT models, the shoe uses an ultra-thin TYRTac™ rubber outsole that boosts ground feedback while giving you excellent traction on surfaces of all types.
Core design elements include a flat, anatomical wide-toe box for natural toe spread, lockdown laces at midfoot for a secure fit, an engineered breathable 3D knit upper for ventilation, and a thin, flexible construction that supports natural movement. You can get the DropZero in different versions, including a standard trainer and a high-top option with extra ankle support. Both shoes use the TYRTac outsole that users love for its exceptional grip during various training movements.
Durability & Performance
The DropZero shines in strength activities, though it started as a lifting-focused trainer. Tests show successful deadlifts with weights from 455-510 lbs without stability or grip issues. Powerlifters particularly benefit from the shoe’s solid ground connection. The shoe shows mixed results in CrossFit-specific movements. It works great for static exercises and lifting, but some users point out limits during dynamic movements that need more flexibility.
The outsole “isn’t as flexible as we would like in all directions,” which might hold you back during high-intensity interval training and fast CrossFit workouts. The DropZero has found its place as a specialty shoe in TYR’s lineup. It works best for dedicated lifters rather than as an all-purpose CrossFit shoe. Yes, it is “the best of the bunch” specifically for lifting and static exercises.
Comfort and Fit Considerations
Users love the DropZero’s wide toe box, saying it gives more width than similar models from Vivo and Xero. This anatomical design lets your toes spread out naturally and makes lifts more stable.
Most reviews indicate the shoe fits true to size and accommodates various foot shapes. The length is true to size, while the width offers a wide to extra-wide fit. It also supports low to high volume feet, thanks to its removable insole. The breathable knit construction keeps you comfortable during long training sessions. The high-top version adds ankle support while keeping that barefoot feel the DropZero line is known for.
Price Point and Value Analysis
The TYR DropZero costs about $160 (£139.22), putting it at the premium end of training shoes. This price tag makes people question its value, with some reviews mentioning the “considerable price tag” as a possible downside.
Quality construction and materials justify the cost according to many reviewers. One said “you’d be hard pressed to find one that is as durable and versatile as this one”. The shoe handles repeated heavy lifting sessions better than many other barefoot models. Women’s DropZero models cost slightly less, ranging from $120-138 depending on style and color.
Reddit Opinions On TYR DropZero
Reddit users have split views about using the DropZero for CrossFit. Many like it for deadlifting and walking but warn against Olympic lifts because it lacks the medial and lateral support you get from dedicated weightlifting shoes.
Other feedback highlights mixed experiences: some users find them great for basic workouts but uncomfortable, feeling every imperfection on the ground. A few reported “severe pain” when running in the DropZero, while one buyer praised them as “great” for deadlifting. CrossFit practitioners agree the DropZero works best as a specialized shoe for strength training rather than a do-it-all option for varied WODs. A Redditor summed it up: “they are legit ugly af” but people who care more about function than looks in lifting footwear appreciate them.
Choosing the Right TYR CrossFit Shoe
Picking the right TYR footwear for CrossFit depends on how each model’s features match your training needs. TYR makes several options with different heel-to-toe drops, fit profiles, and performance features. The right match will give you the best performance and comfort.
Assessing Your CrossFit Priorities and Weaknesses
Your training style and movement limits should guide your shoe choice:
- For athletes with limited ankle mobility: The CXT-1 with its 9mm heel drop helps with squat mechanics and receiving positions under the barbell. This makes it perfect if you struggle with depth.
- For balanced performers: The CXT-2 has a middle-ground 7mm drop that works well for both lifting stability and dynamic movements. It suits athletes who split their time between strength and metabolic conditioning.
- For purists and lifters: The DropZero’s 0mm drop creates a natural foot position and strengthens your connection with training surfaces. It shines in deadlifts and static exercises.
Your most frequent CrossFit movements should guide your choice. A shoe that works well for your common activities brings more value than one made for moves you rarely do.
Sizing Guide for TYR Training Shoes
TYR’s official sizing chart shows exact conversions across international standards:
| US Men’s | US Women’s | European | UK | CM |
| 8 | 9.5 | 41 1/3 | 7.5 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 42 2/3 | 8.5 | 26.3 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 44 | 9.5 | 27.2 |
| 11 | 12.5 | 45 1/3 | 10.5 | 28.0 |
| 12 | 13.5 | 46 2/3 | 11.5 | 28.9 |
This chart helps you pick the right size whatever measurement system you use.
Sizing and Fit Guide for TYR CrossFit Shoes
Each TYR model fits differently:
CXT-1 Trainer:
- Fits true to size for normal-width feet
- Go up half a size if you have wider feet
- You’ll feel a midfoot “hugging” sensation from the arch support
CXT-2 Trainer:
- Width is 4mm more throughout than the CXT-1
- Stick to your true size if you have up to E/EE-width feet
- Look at other models if you have 3E+ width feet
DropZero:
- Has TYR’s widest toe box
- Works great for wide to extra-wide feet with its anatomical toe splay design
- Comes in standard and high-top versions for different ankle support needs
Best results come from measuring both feet late in the day when they’re naturally swollen from activity.
Breaking-in Period and Expectations
TYR training shoes need some time to reach peak comfort. The CXT-1’s break-in period matches other CrossFit shoes. Your shoes will mold to your feet’s shape during this time. Tips for breaking in your new shoes include starting with short training sessions (equivalent to 1-3 miles) and gradually increasing workout intensity over a few weeks.
Wear them at home before taking them to the gym, and make sure to use your regular training socks to test the fit and ensure comfort. Reddit users say TYR shoes adapt with use: “They have stretched for me. Mine were real tight around the toes when I got them but they are snug and comfortable now”. This usually happens within one to two weeks of regular use.
When to Replace Your TYR CrossFit Shoes
Expert guidelines suggest replacing your CrossFit shoes based on your training frequency. If you’re working out 5 or more times a week, it’s recommended to replace your shoes every 8 months. For those doing 4 workouts weekly, shoes should be replaced every 10 months. If you’re training 3 times or fewer per week, replacing your shoes once a year is generally sufficient.
Your body weight and lifting capacity affect how long shoes last. Athletes over 200 pounds who lift heavy (400+ pound squats, 500+ pound deadlifts) might need new shoes within 6 months. The “OMU” formula helps check shoe condition:
- O = Outsole: Replace right away if you see toe lipping, peeling, or lost traction
- M = Midsole: Time for new shoes when the midsole shrinks or leans to one side
- U = Upper: Look for new shoes if upper damage hurts performance or comfort
Many CrossFit athletes notice it’s time for new shoes when they start feeling knee or back pain. This shows the shoe’s support has worn down.
Best TYR Women-Specific Shoes for CrossFit
Female athletes looking for the best TYR shoes for CrossFit will find several models that match their anatomical needs. TYR has built a solid lineup of women’s training shoes in their CrossFit collections.
Anatomical Fit and Sizing Considerations
Women athletes need different fits in their CrossFit footwear. The CXT-2 Trainer tackles this with a 4mm wider build compared to the CXT-1, which gives a better anatomical fit that works well with women’s feet’s natural shape. This wider design came from feedback about the first model’s narrow fit. TYR’s size range for women starts at US size 5 and goes up to size 17.5 with half-sizes available. This range means almost every female athlete can find their perfect fit whatever their foot size.
Women switching between TYR models should know:
- The CXT-2 is wider than the CXT-1
- The DropZero has the roomiest toe box among TYR models
- The CXT-1’s strong arch support works great for high-arched feet
Women’s TYR CrossFit Shoe Options
TYR makes several women-specific CrossFit shoe variants:
| Model | Special Editions | Price Range |
| CXT-2 Trainer | Red Starlight, Jeff Adler, Momentous, White Starlight, El Dorado, WZA Miami | $113-155 |
| CXT-2 Elite Carbon | Dynasty | $235 |
| DropZero | Squat University Edition | $120 |
| CXT-FLOW | Black Gum, White Gum, Multi, White/Pink | $120-130 |
Female athletes who need extra width can opt for the women’s CXT-2 Trainer – Wide. This model fits E/EE-width feet comfortably.
The Women’s DropZero Barefoot Trainer with Stability Strap (Squat University 008 edition) serves athletes who prefer minimalist training. This collaboration brings together barefoot training elements and features that work well with women’s foot anatomy.
Performance Features for Female Athletes
The women’s CXT-1 Trainer is designed with features that support common CrossFit movements. It includes a tough toe guard that withstands the wear of burpees, a smooth heel tab that aids in handstand push-ups, a flexible forefoot for explosive movements, and a solid heel structure for improved ground contact.
The CXT-1’s 9mm heel-to-toe drop helps female athletes who have limited ankle mobility or need extra squat support. This design aids proper squat form and receiving positions under the barbell. The women’s CXT-1’s responsive surge NRG foam midsole works great for athletes who love plyometric movements like box jumps and double-unders. The CXT-2 tweaks this balance with a 7mm drop.
Both the CXT-1 and CXT-2 models feature engineered mesh uppers that keep feet cool during intense workouts. This mesh might not be the toughest for heavy rope climbing. Female CrossFit athletes should pick their TYR footwear based on what matters most in their training – lifting stability, versatility in metabolic conditioning, or feeling connected to the ground.
[Related: Best Nike Shoes for CrossFit]
Comparison of Best TYR Shoes
| Feature | TYR CXT-1 | TYR CXT-2 | TYR DropZero |
| Heel-to-toe Drop | 9mm | 7mm | 0mm |
| Retail Price | $130-140 | $155 | $160 |
| Key Features | – Patent-pending stability platform – Surge NRG foam midsole – Extended toe guard – Smooth heel tab |
– TPU stability wrap – SURGENRG foam – 4mm wider fit – Better rope climb durability |
– Flat anatomical wide toe box – TYRTac™ rubber outsole – Breathable 3D knit upper – Lockdown laces |
| Best Suited For | – Heavy lifting – Athletes with limited ankle mobility – Short running distances (<800m) |
– Varied CrossFit movements – Balanced training approach – Heavy lifting |
– Deadlifts and static lifts – Barefoot training – Strength-focused workouts |
| Durability Notes | Shows wear from rope climbs | Stronger durability on rope climbs | Excellent lifting performance with limited flexibility in dynamic moves |
| Fit Characteristics | – True to size – Pronounced arch support – Narrower toe box |
– Size up by half – 4mm wider than CXT-1 – Thick ankle collar |
– True to size – Series’ widest toe box – Fits wide feet well |
Final Verdict – Which One to Choose?
Testing TYR’s CrossFit footwear through many workouts and competitions helped me match different training styles with the right shoe design. Athletes who want maximum stability with a lifting-focused approach will find the TYR CXT-2 leads the pack. The shoe’s modified 7mm heel-to-toe drop hits that CrossFit sweet spot between 4-7mm and provides perfect balance for Olympic lifts and heavy squats. You’ll get rock-solid stability from the CXT-2’s rigid sole, which works great in CrossFit boxes that program lots of lifting.
The CXT-1 shines for athletes who struggle with ankle mobility. Its unique 9mm heel-to-toe drop helps by a lot with squat mechanics and catching positions under a barbell. The shoe’s performance might surprise first-time TYR buyers – it’s impressive for the brand’s first shot at training footwear. The TYR DropZero fills a specific role in the CrossFit world. This minimalist shoe excels in deadlifts and ground work but might hold you back during runs or high-intensity jumping movements.
The CXT-2’s $150 price tag (just $10 more than the CXT-1) makes sense. Most reviewers say the upgrades are worth the extra cost. One expert called it “my favorite training shoe of the year and in recent memory”. Both models last a long time – just watch out for the CXT-1’s rope climb issues. New buyers should check TYR’s return policy before ordering online. This matters because each model fits differently.
Your choice should depend on:
- Training emphasis: Lifting-focused (CXT-2), balanced (CXT-1), or minimalist (DropZero)
- CrossFit programming: Heavy lifting vs. metabolic conditioning
- Anatomical needs: Ankle mobility, foot width, arch requirements
- Budget considerations: CXT-2’s extra $10 brings major improvements
TYR has built a complete lineup that covers CrossFit training needs of all types. The CXT-2 offers the best mix of performance and value for most athletes looking to get the best TYR shoes for CrossFit.