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There’s an endless amount of cross-training shoes on the market. Searching for new cross-training shoes can be incredibly overwhelming when trying to find the best-performing and fitting models for your needs.
As someone constantly seeking the best cross-training shoes, I wanted to build out a list of some of my favorite cross-training shoes for narrow feet. Whether you have narrow feet, are into CrossFit, or want a model for HIIT, I’ve included some of my top picks below.
Every shoe below should resonate well with athletes and lifters with narrow feet, and each model has its own list of pros and cons. I’ve also personally tested every shoe featured in this article.
Best Men’s Cross Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
To test the best men’s cross-training shoes for narrow feet, I’m considering two key aspects in my review process. First, I’m assessing the shoe’s fit and width. Does it work well for men with narrow feet?
Second, I cover the shoe’s performance and try contextualizing each shoe’s strengths and weaknesses. I ask questions like, what type of workouts and athletes will this shoe work best for?
My Top Pick: Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3 is taking my top pick for three key reasons. First, the fit of this shoe is pretty on the money for those with narrow-width feet. They form-fit the foot well and can work with neutral-width feet, so they never feel overly tight for this context.
If you like shoes that feel more “minimalist” in nature and enjoy training shoes that deliver a sock-like fit, then I think you’ll enjoy the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3. Second, this model’s performance is strong across various training contexts.
For example, this model can hold its own for heavy squats, deadlifts, HIIT workouts, and serious CrossFit sessions. It’s a good all-in-one cross-training shoe for narrower feet, and it rarely receives the attention it deserves.
Third and lastly, this shoe has some cool tech features that support its performance. The meta-flex outsole, RopeTec, and Powerflow midsole are all-star players for giving this shoe its stable yet responsive performance.
- Best For: CrossFit-Style Training, Versatile Workouts, Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 10.3 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- For More Info: Read My Review
Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V3
Pros
- If you want training shoes that have a more "minimalist" feel then you'll enjoy the pliability of this shoe's sole construction.
- These shoes feel sock-like on the feet which can be great for giving you an athletic fit for versatile training and lifting.
- This model's midsole and outsole perform well for lifting, CrossFit, and cross-training workouts. They're a good do-it-all shoe.
Cons
- If you like more structure with your training shoe's upper then you'll likely want to pass on this model.
- This model isn't the best for wide feet and for lifters with high insteps. In this context, the sock-like fit can feel aggressive.
- These won't be the best Inov-8 training shoes for hybrid workouts. Look into the F-Lite G 300 or F-Fly for those asks.
Best For
- Agility Workouts
- Plyometric Training
- Athletic Training
- Recreational Lifting
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
Best Women’s Cross Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
When assessing the best women’s cross-training shoes for narrow feet, I look to and lean on my YouTube community and girlfriend for feedback on various models regarding fit and performance.
By cross-referencing the feedback I receive with how certain models fit me, I can blend the best options for women looking for the best cross-training shoes for narrow feet.
My Top Pick: New Balance Minimus TR BOA
The New Balance Minimus TR BOA is earning the top spot as the best women’s cross-training shoe for narrow feet. This model is interesting and has a lot going for it, especially if you have narrow feet and plan to use them for lifting and HIIT.
Regarding performance, the New Balance Minimus TR BOA is a strong performer for class-style workouts, HIIT, lifting, and athletic-style training. This shoe’s midsole is responsive yet stable, so they walk a good line of being well-rounded in these contexts.
Another point to note about this model is that they feature a zero-drop construction, which can be hit or miss. If you like training with flatter and more “minimalist” shoes, this will be a perk for you and how this model feels.
The PerformaFit wrap upper and BOA lacing system are also nice features to boost this model’s fit and performance. These give this shoe a snug and secure fit. My only personal suggestion with this model is to limit their use for rope climbs to avoid breakdown (that’s why this model’s durability took a hit).
- Best For: Cross-Training, Lifting, HIIT, Classes
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.35 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: No
- Sizing: True to Size for Narrow Feet, Size Up a .5 Size If You Want to Play It Safe
- For More Info: Read My Review
New Balance Minimus TR BOA
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Cross-Training Sessions
- CrossFit-Style Workouts
- Minimalist-Style Shoe Lovers
Falls Short
- For Long-Term Durability
- For Wider Feet
- For High Volume Rope Climbs
Best Narrow Feet Cross Training Shoes for CrossFit
To review and test the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for CrossFit, there are two factors guiding my shoe selections. First, I’m concerned with a shoe’s fit and how comfortable it will be for narrow feet in CrossFit workouts.
Second, I’m interested in a shoe’s performance for the specific demands and needs of CrossFit. Will it be durable to make your investment last? Will it be stable enough for heavy WODs and responsive enough for box jumps and double-unders.
My Top Pick: Nike Metcon 7
The Nike Metcon 7 is taking my top pick as the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for CrossFit. This model’s width is what I would describe as being more neutral/normal, but they can work well for narrow feet, so I wanted to include them.
In the context of CrossFit, the Nike Metcon 7 is a strong-performing shoe for three reasons. First, the durability of this shoe is solid for the demands of CrossFit. The medial and lateral midfoot wraps are great for rope climbs and protecting this model’s upper from abrasion.
Second, this shoe provides a good amount of stability. In heavy lifting contexts, the Metcon 7 does a good job of promoting performance. I’ve squatted over 405 lbs and deadlifted over 515 lbs in this model without compression issues.
Third and lastly, the Nike React Foam in this model’s midsole provides a nice blend of versatility with this shoe’s overall stability. For things like box jumps, double-unders, and kettlebell work, this shoe does an okay job for CrossFit WODs with overall comfort.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 12.4 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- For More Info: Read My Review
Nike Metcon 7
$130
Best For
- Heavy Training
- CrossFit Workouts
- Rope Climbs
- Plyos and Agility Workouts
- Short Runs
Falls Short
- For Long-Distance Runs
- For Wider Feet
Best Narrow Feet Cross Training Shoes for HIIT
When exploring the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for HIIT, a shoe has to have a width that aligns with the demands of HIIT workouts.
This means a shoe needs to be snug enough to keep you locked in place when jumping, doing classes, and doing various HIIT workouts. The last thing you want during HIIT workouts is sliding around in shoes that are too wide for your feet.
My Top Pick: Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2
The Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2 is taking my top pick as being the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for HIIT. Honestly, the Zoom Metcon Turbo 2 can be a little polarizing with its construction, but if you like this model’s build, then you’ll love them.
For HIIT workouts, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2 for two reasons. First, the Nike React Foam insole with an additional Air Zoom packet provides this model with a nice “pop” and “bounce” when training.
When doing explosive exercises like plyometrics, repetitive bounding activities like jump rope, and multi-directional exercises, I think the Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2 does a good job. It feels very athletic in nature, like a form-fitting cleat.
Second, I like the split forefoot and heel outsole. This model’s disassociated outsole with separate midfoot construction gives this shoe a nice level of articulation for different training means. My only gripe with this feature is that this model does squeak a bit when breaking them in.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: Likely 4mm (as per Nike’s support team)
- Weight: 12.5 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- For More Info: Read My Review
Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2
$150
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Workouts
- Athletic-Style Training
- Casual CrossFit
- Short Speed-Focused Runs
Falls Short
- For Rope Climbing
- For Long-Term Durability
- For Longer Runs
Best Narrow Feet Cross Training Shoes for High Arches
To test and assess the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for high arches, a shoe needs to align with these two anatomical asks while also being a strong performer in the gym.
Below are my favorite narrow feet cross-training shoes for high arches that perform fairly well as general training shoes. These models can work for lifting, light running, and versatile training.
Top Choice: Under Armour HOVR Rise 4
The Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 is taking my top pick as the best narrow feet cross-training shoes for high arches. Similar to the Nike Metcon 7 featured in this list, the HOVR Rise 4 has a more neutral/normal width, but they can work for narrow feet.
The Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 provides a fair amount of arch support, and if you have narrow feet, then you should feel as though this model aligns well with your anatomy. The bootie-style construction of this shoe locks the foot down pretty well.
Regarding training, the Under Armour HOVR Rise 4 will be best suited for those who want a cross-training shoe for classes, HIIT workouts, short runs (<3 miles), and some recreational lifting. This model does a fairly good job in all of these contexts.
I like the UA HOVR midsole in this model and the TriBase tech on the outsole. The blend of these two features gives this model a responsive yet stable feeling in different training settings.
- Best For: Classes, Short Runs, HIIT Workouts, and Light-Moderate Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 12.5 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- For More Info: Read My Review
Nike Zoom Metcon Turbo 2
$150
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Workouts
- Athletic-Style Training
- Casual CrossFit
- Short Speed-Focused Runs
Falls Short
- For Rope Climbing
- For Long-Term Durability
- For Longer Runs
Best Luxury Cross Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
This section on the best luxury cross-training shoes for narrow feet is interesting. This section entails models which perform well for cross-training settings and narrow feet but have higher price tags.
I believe price should never be a limiting factor for those looking into quality shoes. So, I wanted to carve out a section for higher-price models that are good if you have the means. However, certainly not make or break shoes if you’re on a budget.
My Top Pick: APL TechLoom Tracer
The APL TechLoom Tracer is taking my top pick as the best luxury cross-training shoe for narrow feet. Honestly, I like this model’s performance, but for their price point of $250 USD, I couldn’t justify putting them as a top pick anywhere else on this list.
Mainly because I don’t feel this model is worth that price despite thoroughly enjoying their performance and liking them for those with narrow feet. If you’re considering the TechLoom Tracer, I’d highly suggest shopping around and trying to find them on sale.
Regarding the APL TechLoom Tracer’s performance, I like this shoe for two reasons. First, the Propelium™ midsole is super responsive, and this shoe gives a nice level of ground feedback when jumping and lifting.
Second, I think the narrower fit and lighter construction of the TechLoom Tracer will resonate well with those wanting an athletic-style fit with their shoes. This model performs well for athletic training and HIIT workouts and does a good job with recreational lifting.
- Best For: Classes, Athletic Sessions, HIIT Workouts, and Light-Moderate Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- For More Info: Read My Review
APL TechLoom Tracer
$250
Best For
- Athletic-Style Training Sessions
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Workouts
- Classes
- Sprints and Agility Work
Falls Short
- For Heavy Lifting
- For Wide/Flat Feet
- For Long-Term Durability
How Should Cross Training Shoes Fit for Narrow Feet?
When sizing cross-training shoes for narrow feet, I typically suggest sizing models so you have around .2-6. inches at the end of your toe box. I also use this recommendation for my normal training size suggestions.
This amount of space at the end of your toe box should give each shoe a snug enough fit to prevent heel slip and spacious enough to allow your forefoot and toes to splay.
Additionally, with narrow feet, toe box width is rarely an issue, so you can typically get away with wearing models that are snugger in nature compared to someone who has wide feet.
If you have narrow feet, I’d suggest noting which cross-training shoes and brands fit you best. Generally speaking, companies will make training shoes with relatively similar last constructions.
This means if you find a particular model and company you like, then you can often safely assume that other models in the line and from the company will have similar fits. For example, there’s a reason most Nike shoes typically feel narrow and fit similarly.
Are Cross Training Shoes Good for Narrow Feet?
Cross-training shoes can be great options for narrow feet, depending on the shoe you invest in. Every cross-training shoe is built slightly differently, so finding narrow-foot-friendly models can be key for not only performance and comfort.
There are cross-training shoes that work better for wide feet, flat feet, high arches, neutral-width feet, and the list goes on. If you can find models that align well with narrow feet, then you’ll typically find your performance gets a natural boost from them.
A good example would be having a narrow fit and not realizing this and opting for wider shoes and not realizing they’re not the best for your individual needs. For example, if you have a narrow foot and opt for a Reebok Nano X2, you may feel as if you’re “swimming” in the shoe’s toe box.
The extra room in the Nano could impact your performance due to lack of security, and if you’ve opted for them because “that’s what everyone uses”, then you may be leaving some performance advantages on the table regarding finding better-fitting models.
All that being said, cross-training shoes can be awesome for narrow feet, especially when you find pairs that align with your individual anatomical needs.
How I Test Cross-Training Shoes for Narrow Feet
At That Fit Friend, I have a testing and review system that I take every cross-training shoe through when reviewing models. I use consistent performance tests to add context to my reviews, round-ups, and comparisons.
Some of these tests include performing similar multi-directional exercises, running distances, hitting lifts with particular loads/thresholds, trying shoes for similar HIIT-focused workouts, and more.
Once I’ve performed my consistent tests, I’ll get more niche with training shoes depending on their construction, fit, and intent. For example, if a shoe is built for classes, then I won’t get as specific with CrossFit-specific testing, and this is why I truncate the models above into different categories.
By noting the additional specifics, I can build lists like this for narrow feet because I know the variance and context in different training shoes, so I can hyper-focus on narrow feet-friendly models.
Some factors I consider when taking shoes through my consistent and specific tests include some of the following.
- Midsole Stability and Responsiveness: What is the stability threshold of certain shoes? How responsive is the midsole for particular types of exercises and workouts?
- Outsole Grip, Durability, and Versatility: Does the outsole provide adequate traction on different surfaces? Does it protect the midsole?
- Width and Length: How does a shoe fit for particular types of feet? What type of feet will find a particular model comfortable and uncomfortable?
- Upper Durability and Breathability: Is the upper construction durable? If not, in what contexts does it fall short? Is it breathable enough for hot outdoor sessions?
These are just a few questions I try to answer when performing and building out my cross-training shoe reviews. As models get more specific, so do my questions and performance tests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Does Nike fit narrow?
Q:Are New Balance shoes good for narrow feet?
Q:Are Reebok shoes good for narrow feet?
Takeaway Thoughts
There are countless cross-training shoes on the market, and finding the perfect pair should be a matter of finding models that best suit your individual fit and performance needs. The days of wearing poor-fitting training shoes need to be over.
Above are some of the best cross-training shoes I’ve worn and tested if you have narrow feet. These models will work well for those with slimmer feet, and each model performs slightly differently.
If you have additional questions on any of the cross-training shoes for narrow feet mentioned above, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the comments below or to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).
Also, if you have additional narrow feet cross-training shoes that you love that didn’t make this list, let me know which shoes I should review, test, and consider next.
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