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Table of Contents+
- Great Pick for OVERALL PERFORMANCE
- Good Option for WIDE FEET
- Fave Pick for MEN
- Buy this for WEIGHTLITING WODS
- Good Pick for RUNNING WODS
- When You Need ARCH SUPPORT
- Great Pick for FLAT FEET
- Buy this BAREFOOT SHOE for WODs
- Good Pick for ROPE CLIMBING
- Top Option for BUDGET
- How Should Your Shoes Fit for CrossFit?
Your shoes can make a big difference in CrossFit WODs. If you’ve been doing CrossFit for a while, I don’t need to tell you this. You’ve likely learned this the hard way or burned through a generalist pair of shoes way too fast — hence why you’re here.
When I say “CrossFit shoes,” I’m really referencing cross-training shoes that are built specifically for CrossFit. The demands of CrossFit workouts will be a lot different on a shoe compared to a general training shoe. Yes, this matters if you want your investment to last.
In general, you’ll want a shoe with three things. One is a medium-density midsole to promote stability while staying responsive. Two, a reinforced upper to prolong durability when doing burpees and rope climbs. Three, a grippy outsole that can work with a wide range of surfaces and exercises (this also helps with durability).
CrossFit Shoes Buying Guide
- What to Buy for Overall Performance: RAD ONE ($150)
- What to Buy for Wide Feet: Born Primitive Savage 1 ($130)
- What to Buy for Men: STRIKE MVMNT Haze Trainer ($150)
- What to Buy for WODs With Snatch/C & Js: TYR L-1 Lifter ($200)
- What to Buy for Running WODs: Inov8 F-Fly ($130)
- What to Buy for Arch Support: TYR CXT-2 Trainer ($150)
- What to Buy for Flat Feet: Born Primitive Savage 1 ($130)
- What to Buy for Barefoot Shoe Lovers: Vivobarefoot Motus Strength ($200)
- What to Buy for Rope Climbing: Inov8 F-Lite ($140)
- What to Buy When On a Budget: Reebok Nanoflex V2 ($~100)
Sizing Tip: You want around ~.5 inch to a thumb’s width of space at the of your toe box. This gives you a little more room for toe splay when training. If you ever have sizing questions, please reach out, it’s one of the toughest parts to nail down when buying online.
What to Buy for Overall Performance | RAD ONE
It’s tough to fault the RAD ONE for being incredibly well-rounded for CrossFit WODs. This shoe’s midsole tends to blend stability and versatility really well, and this model’s earned its spot as number one in my list due to it being great in virtually every WOD.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- Any WOD, Honestly. Super Well-Rounded
- WODs With Short Runs
- WODs With a Blend of Jumping/Lifting
R.A.D ONE
$150
Pros
- Well-rounded performance
- Midsole is responsive
- Great travel-friendly shoe
Cons
- Toe box can feel snug
- Upper can run hot
- Availability can be a struggle
Best For
- Lifting
- CrossFit
- HIIT
- Versatility
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6mm |
| Weight | 12.7 oz |
| Width | Medium |
| Lifting Threshold | ~550 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <1-2 Miles |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Narrow/Medium
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to size up to E/EE. 3E+ pass on these.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have some arch to them.
- Relative Sizing: Go with your normal Adidas and Nike sizes.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
- RAD’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
The “All-In-One” Shoe for CrossFit
The RAD ONE is taking home my top overall pick. Honestly, the STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer and RAD ONE could both easily rotate in and out as my top pick overall pick for CrossFit shoes.
I love a lot of things about the RAD ONE, and there’s a reason you likely see more and more of your peers rocking these at your box. They’re a sick well-rounded CrossFit shoe. Of all their features, I like their SwellFoam midsole the most.
This midsole is awesome because it’s one of the few truly dialed CrossFit shoes that can walk a fine line between stability and versatility. I’ve deadlifted well over 500 lbs in my RAD ONEs and have cleaned over 300 lbs in them.
I also like that this shoe features a rubber/TPU wrap around the entirety of the outsole. This is great for prolonging this shoe’s durability, which helps your investment last longer and gives this model additional grip for rope climbs. I talk about this in my rope climbing section below, too.
Another subtle perk of this shoe that I like is that its materials are pretty responsibly sourced, which adds to why this model is great across the board. Good shoe, good brand ethos. If you’re looking for a good all-around shoe for tackling CrossFit, then the RAD ONE is definitely worth looking into.
What to Buy for Wide Feet: Born Primitive Savage 1
It’s nice seeing the industry start to shift more to wider toe boxes and last constructions. The BP Savage 1 is one of my go-to picks for wide feet and they tend to be bombproof for CrossFit. These will typically work great for feet up to 3 and sometimes 4E width feet.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With Deadlifts and RDLs
- Workouts With a Lower Body Focus (flexible for single-leg stuff)
- WODs With Cleans and Jumping
Born Primitive Savage 1
$130
Pros
- Good durability for CrossFit WODs
- Wide Toe Box Is Great for Toe Splay
- Dense Midsole and Lower Stack Height
Cons
- Not the Best for Running
- May Be Too Wide for Narrow Feet
- Lower Material At Midfoot Folds At Times
Best For
- Lifting
- CrossFit
- Cross-Training
- Wide Feet
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 11.2 oz |
| Width | Wide(r) |
| Lifting Threshold | 545 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <1 mile |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium/Wide(ish)
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have a flatter midfoot.
- Relative Sizing: Go with the same size as Nike and Reebok in these.
- In-Between Sizes: Narrower feet, go down. Wide feet, size up.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Reebok Nano 2.0
- Born Primitive’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Simple and Wide With a Tinge of Nostalgia
I love the Born Primitive Savage 1’s wider toe box and less aggressive midfoot. They give this shoe a much more wide-foot-friendly feeling and make it a good pick for lifters constantly battling toe boxes and midfoots.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the anatomical toe box in this shoe and they give me plenty of width for splaying my toes. For context, I have an E to EE-width foot depending on the company’s sizing scale.
In terms of performance, the Savage 1’s dual-density midsole provides good stability for heavy lifts and is responsive enough for movements like double-unders and box jumps. I’ve pulled over 500 lbs in this shoe, have hit 275 lb walking lunges, and 405 lb squats and have yet to have stability issues in this model.
I also like the durability of this shoe and how it felt its own when doing rope climbs and burpees. The TPU overlays feel strategic and help protect the mesh upper from ripping early.
I think if you enjoy older CrossFit shoes like some of the OG Metcons and Nanos then you’ll resonate with the Savage 1. It’s a stripped-down shoe that gives you the key features you want out of a well-rounded CrossFit shoe.
What to Buy for Men: STRIKE MVMNT Haze Trainer
The Haze Trainer has landed itself as my top spot for guys due to its appearance and cross-functionality between CrossFit and daily wear. For me, and a bunch of the guys in the That Fit Friend community, the Haze is our go-to option when wanting a nice snug-fitting shoe.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With a Lower Body Focus
- WODs With A Lot of Jumping (good ground feedback)
- WODs Performed When Traveling (good all-in-one option)
STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
$150
Pros
- Great for those who love minimalist-feeling trainers.
- Casual look and vibe are great for daily wear.
- Upper breathes well and promotes security while training.
Cons
- Toe box can rip from tough abrasion.
- Outsole can fade with high-volume concrete use.
- High insteps may find these tight.
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Cross-Training Workouts
- Athletic-Focused Sessions
- Shorter Runs (<3 miles)
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 11.2 oz |
| Width | Medium/Wide(ish) |
| Lifting Threshold | 545 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <1 mile |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium/Wide(ish)
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: Go up a half-size (it’s the new meta).
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have a tapered and low-volume midfoot.
- Relative Sizing: Go the same size as Nike, Adidas, and Reebok.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Born Primitive Savage 1
- STRIKE MVMNT’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Flexible, Stable, and Good Looking
I love the STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer along with most of the guys in my community who have tried this model. For CrossFit, the Haze Trainer delivers a super versatile performance so I don’t think you’ll have many issues with this model.
The Haze Trainer has done a good job with my heavier lifting, and I credit this to its Cush50 midsole. My top deadlift in these shoes to date is 530 lbs, and my max squat set includes 420 for 4 reps. On both occasions, stability was never a concern for me.
The minimalist feel that you get with the Haze Trainer is what really won me over with this shoe. I love rating between barefoot shoes and training shoes and the Haze Trainer feels like a “bridge” between these two footwear styles.
If you’re similar and love having more ground feel in your workouts and CrossFit WODs, then you’ll resonate with the Haze Trainer. Outside of its minimalist feel, I also like the jacquard knit upper and how it hugs the foot and promotes overall security.
To add a final note on this shoe’s versatility, if I’m traveling I’ll usually bring my Haze Trainers. They look casual which is an added bonus outside of their performance in various WODs and they’re comfortable for all-day wear.
What to Buy for WODs With Weightlifting: TYR L-1 Lifter
At the end of the day, there are a lot of weightlifting shoes that can work for CrossFit athletes. If your gym programs a lot of WODs with clean & jerks and snatches, then it can be a good idea to pick up a pair of dedicated weightlifting shoes. However, the TYR L-1 Lifter is taking the top spot on this list due to its wider construction, consistent performance, and working for a large range of foot anatomies.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With Snatches/Clean & Jerks
- WODs Where You’re Building to a Big Back/Front Squat
TYR L1-Lifter
$199.99
Pros
- Wide toe box promotes toe splay
- TPU midsole is dense and stable
- Dual-straps promote good security
Cons
- Outsole durability can vary
- Upper lacks breathability
- Not ideal for narrow feet
Best For
- Weightlifting
- Squats
- Recreational Lifting
- Wider Feet
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 21mm |
| Weight | 19.05 oz |
| Width | Wide(r) |
| Lifting Threshold | ~440 lbs |
Specs to Know
- Effective Heel Height: 21mm/.83″
- Weight: 19.05 oz (for my size 10)
- Removable Insole: Yes
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium/Wide(ish)
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to Size, 3E+ Width pass on these or go up a half-size.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These can be hit or miss for flat feet. Pro tip: take the insole out.
- Relative Sizing: Go same size as Nike, Under Armour, and Reebok.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: UA TriBase Reign Lifter
- TYR’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Stable With a Wider Toe Box
The TYR L-1 Lifter is my favorite weightlifting shoe for CrossFit workouts where there’s a skill focus on squats or the Olympic lifts. In my opinion, there’s a lot to like about the TYR L-1 Lifter, and its main claim to fame is that it’s built with a wider toe box construction.
I think if you use weightlifting shoes for squats and Olympic lifts during your CrossFit workouts and you constantly feel confined by your current shoe’s toe box construction, then the TYR L-1 Lifter can be a solid shoe to explore.
This model’s toe box width is comparable to that of the popular minimalist shoe Xero Shoes Prio. I also like the midfoot security provided by the dual strap system in the TYR L-1 Lifter.
I like that the midsole is constructed with a TPU, as it does a good job of providing a nice level of stability. I’ve squatted 420 lbs in this shoe and haven’t had any issues whatsoever with stability in this model.
The thicker rubber outsole has a nice grip to it for catching clean and snatches, too. I will say, and this is my only gripe with this shoe, that the rubber outsole can lip away from the midsole at times in the L-1 Lifter. If you experience this, reach out to TYR and they should replace it.
What to Buy for WODs With Running: Inov8 F-Fly
The Inov8 F-Fly has been an awesome hybrid-focused training shoe that I think is slept-on. In Inov8’s current training shoe lineup, this model is the most running-friendly and is built to accommodate workouts with some lifting, jumping, and interval runs.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With Lifting/Short Runs
- Workouts With a Full Body Focus
- WODs With A lot of Transitions
Inov-8 F-Fly
Pros
- POWERFLOW PRO midsole is highly responsive
- Good option for moderate strength training
- Wide toe box is great for toe splay
Cons
- Not the best for narrow feet
- May lack for CrossFit-only lifters
- Upper lacks for explosive lateral work
Best For
- HYROX-Style Training
- Runs From 1-5 Miles
- Strength Training (best up to 415 lbs and below)
- Cross-Training Workouts
- Workout Classes
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 9.85 oz |
| Width | Wide |
| Lifting Threshold | ~365 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | 1-5 miles |
Sizing Thoughts
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Width: Wide
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size, D-width feet, go up a half-size.
- Wider Feet Sizing: Go up a half size.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have a bit of taper to them. Flat feet may want to pass.
- Relative Sizing: Go up a half-size compared to your Nike and Adidas shoes
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Reebok Nano X5
- Reebok’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Good for CrossFit and Tackling a Few Miles
The Inov8 F-Fly is one of those shoes that are just a solid option to keep in your lineup, even if they’re not your main training shoes. I always language this shoe as a “never bad to have” type of shoe. My advice, if you know your gym programs a lot of runs in WODs, then invest in a pair and keep them in your gym bag.
To shed some context on when I like to use my F-Flys, it’s during workouts where I know I’ll be doing things like walking lunges, dumbbell snatches, box jumps, and short runs. Their POWERFLOW PRO midsole has a nice bounce to it and I never feel like my feet get fatigued when wearing these when training.
The lightweight and breathable mesh upper is also a perk of this shoe. If your feet run hot, then you’ll love how this model breathes — and if you want a similar upper but more stability, then the Inov8 F-Lite can be an awesome option here for this ask, too. Despite the upper running on the lighter side, I don’t really struggle with security issues when wearing these.
If you have wider feet, I think you’ll enjoy the wider forefoot in this shoe. They tend to accommodate a wide range of foot anatomies well based on my community’s feedback on this shoe in addition to my own observations. There is a midfoot taper, so for my flat and blocky-footed folks, you’ll want to keep that in mind.
The flexibility of the sole strikes a nice cord for minimalist lovers, too. This model moves well with the foot, so despite having a higher stack height, this shoe should work well with your feet and they break in fast.
What to Buy for Arch Support: TYR CXT-2
The TYR CXT-2 Trainer feels like a completely different shoe compared to the CXT-1 in a great way, which arguably was a decent shoe for CrossFit to begin with. This shoe has been super solid for all of my CrossFit tests. Consider it the big bro in this equation.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With Heavy Lifting
- WODs With A lot of Rope Climbs (good grip/durability)
- Workouts With Multi-Directional Work/Lots of Transitions
TYR CXT-2 Trainer
$150
Pros
- Well-rounded performance
- Great durability for WODs and cross-training
- Stable midsole for heavy lifting
Cons
- Not the best option for flat feet
- Normal model still isn't that "wide"
- Tongue can feel a little thick for some
Best For
- CrossFit
- Lifting
- Cross-Training
- Ankle Support
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 7mm |
| Weight | 13.1 oz |
| Width | Medium |
| Lifting Threshold | ~550 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | < 1 mile |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium/Slightly Wide
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to size up to E/EE. 3E+ pass on these.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have some arch to them.
- Relative Sizing: Go with your normal Nike, Reebok, and RAD sizes.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Reebok Nano X4
- TYR’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Great Stability and FAR Better Durability
When is comes to CrossFit, the CXT-2 Trainer has yet to let me down. I appreciate that it seems like a lot of the changes made in this shoe were spurred by the community feedback and what went “wrong” in the CXT-1 Trainer.
For example, this model has a reworked midfoot and heel, which now features a TPU and extended outsole wrap. I’ve loved this change because it’s nipped the rope climbing durability issue that I had in these completely in the bud.
Outside of reworked midsole protection, this shoe’s heel-to-toe drop was brought down from 9mm to 7mm. I found this to give this shoe a better and more “all-encompassing” feel for training. You don’t feel as pitched forward in this shoe as you could at times in the CXT-1.
This shoe has also been widened compared to its predecessor. The CXT-2 features a width increase of 4mm, which is appreciated by myself and many others. Now, that said, this model is still not crazy “wide” for 3E+ width feet, so please check my sizing advice above before buying.
At the end of the day, the CXT-2 has been solid for CrossFit. It feels leveled up in almost every way possible, and whether it’s been for 500 lb deadlifts, tackling rope climbs, or hitting a versatile WOD this shoe has been solid.
What to Buy for Flat Feet: Born Primitive Savage 1
It’s no secret that finding flat, foot-friendly CrossFit shoes can be a pain. The Savage 1 is making my list once again for its ability to work for flatter feet. Pro-tip, take the insole out of this shoe and they’ll work better for flat feet.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With Deadlifts and RDLs
- Workouts With a Lower Body Focus (flexible for single-leg stuff)
- WODs With Cleans and Jumping
Born Primitive Savage 1
$130
Pros
- Good durability for CrossFit WODs
- Wide Toe Box Is Great for Toe Splay
- Dense Midsole and Lower Stack Height
Cons
- Not the Best for Running
- May Be Too Wide for Narrow Feet
- Lower Material At Midfoot Folds At Times
Best For
- Lifting
- CrossFit
- Cross-Training
- Wide Feet
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 11.2 oz |
| Width | Wide(r) |
| Lifting Threshold | 545 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <1 mile |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium/Wide(ish)
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to Size
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have a flatter midfoot.
- Relative Sizing: Go with the same size as Nike and Reebok in these.
- In-Between Sizes: Narrower feet, go down. Wide feet, size up.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Reebok Nano 2.0
- Born Primitive’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
A Little Finesse Goes a Long Way
The Savage 1’s last (mold/shape) is one of my favorite things about this shoe. I know I discussed it above in my width section, but this shoe’s ability to work for a wide range of anatomies is always why I tend to recommend them for those “stuck” on what to get for specific sizing asks.
It’s surprising how much more spacious this shoe can feel for flat feet when you take its insole out. You can also swap its insole for a thinner one and then you’ll get the nice balance of this shoe being great for flat feet while still getting a little cushion. It’s a win-win move to try.
The lower stack height also helps contribute to this shoe’s flat, foot-friendly nature. There’s not an aggressive arch so when you’re training and your foot is collapsing and flexing, there’s never an uncomfortable feeling of something pressing in to the midfoot.
If you do invest in the Savage 1, keep in mind that these shoes will have more of a stability-bias to them, like the VIKTOS Core Gym which was the shoe that had this spot previously. For the record, I swapped them out due to availability, the Savage 1 continually growing on me, and community feedback.
If you do decide to try the Savage 1 and you’re nervous on si
What to Buy for Barefoot Shoe Lovers: Vivobarefoot Motus Strength
I feel like we’re finally hitting that point of critical mass where we’re FINALLY starting to get some barefoot shoes that can excel for CrossFit WODs. The Motus Strength is one of the stronger options out there for performance and long-term durability, securing it my top spot.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With A Lot of Deadlifts
- Workouts With Single-Leg Work
- WODs With a Full Body Focus
Vivobarefoot Motus Strength JJF
$200
Pros
- Good durability for CrossFit
- Grippy outsole lugs for training and casual wear
- Outsole wrap promotes security
Cons
- High price point
- Upper lacks breathability
- Can feel "heavy" for some
Best For
- Lifting
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit WODs
- Short Runs
- Athletic Sessions
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 0mm |
| Weight | 9.2 oz |
| Width | Wide |
| Lifting Threshold | ~565 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <2 miles |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Wide
- Narrower Feet Sizing: Size down.
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to size. Higher insteps may not love the volume of these.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These tend to work for flat feet.
- Relative Sizing: Size down from your normal Nike, Xero Shoes, and Reebok.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- F0r More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: Xero Shoes 360
- Vivobarefoot’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Sneaky Strong for CrossFit WODs
The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength has honestly surprised me in all of my CrossFit workouts. I’ve thrown some gnarly WODs at this shoe and it’s still standing strong with little to no sign of breakdown — which is great because it’s expensive AF.
This shoe is one of the first barefoot shoe options I’ve used that can hold its own across all WODs, and this means WODs with rope climbs, short runs, and handstand push-ups.
I think I’ve been so impressed with this shoe because the Motus Strength is primarily intended for lifting and versatile training. However, with its reinforced upper you can use them for CrossFit without a ton of worry about them breaking down quickly from rope climbs and other abrasion movements.
This shoe’s outsole wraps over the toe box and up the lateral and medial sides so it helps with giving this shoe a “locked-down” feeling. I’ve liked the more aggressive tread on this shoe for grip when catching clean & jerks, snatches, and doing squats.
Outside of its more rugged grip, I’ve also liked the upper of this shoe and how its translated to my CrossFit workouts. The sock-like feel is fantastic for preventing sliding and slipping when moving dynamically in your workouts.
What to Buy for Rope Climbing: Inov8 F-Lite G 300
For the record, a lot of the shoes on this work exceptionally well for rope climbing. The F Lite is taking my pick here because its ROPE-TEC midfoot gives you a nice bite and grip when climbing while protecting the shoe from general durability issues.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With a Lot of Rope Climbs
- Workouts With a Full Body Focus
- WODs With Short Runs
F-Lite
$140
Pros
- Wide Forefoot for Toe Splay
- Bouncy Midsole
- Good Overall Durability
Cons
- Runs Short, Size Up
- Narrower Heel
- May Fall Short for Flat Feet
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit (all WODs)
- Short Runs
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 10.4 oz |
| Width | Wide |
| Lifting Threshold | 485 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <3 mi |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Wide
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to size. D-width feet, size up a half-size.
- Wider Feet Sizing: Size up a half-size.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have a little arch, but it’s not crazy offputting, IMO. If you buy through That Fit Friend Shop, I’ll cover your returns if you need one and they don’t work for you.
- Relative Sizing: Go up a half-size compared to Nike and Adidas.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: TYR CXT-2
- Inov8’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Don’t Sleep On the Inov8 F Lite
In the current Inov8 training shoe landscape, the F-Fly is built to be more hybrid and the F-Lite MAX is built with a lifting and stability bias. The F-Lite sits right between these shoes as a middle ground-style shoe that blends stability well with versatility.
Outside of its rope climbing performance, there are three reasons why I included the F-Lite in my list. First, I love the shape of this shoe and how it fits. They’re built wider, and the upper construction is fairly spacious. This makes them solid for a wide range of foot anatomies and asks.
Second, the POWERFLOW PRO midsole works great for pretty much every WOD you can throw at these. I’ve deadlifted well over 400 lbs in these and have squatted north of 300 lbs with no glaring stability issues. The full rubber outsole also gives these a nice grip for general strength and hypertrophy workouts outside of the lens of CrossFit, too.
The midfoot cage and upper materials are also strong assets to this shoe. The forefoot mesh breathes well while doing a good job with durability and security, and the midfoot cage locks the foot down well and gives you additional protection when training and climbing ropes.
Honestly, I feel like the F-Lite is going to be one of the CrossFit shoes that flies under the radar and is sneaky strong. They do everything pretty well, and they offer a wide fit and that’s been an ask from many in the CrossFit scene. When in doubt, I’d try the F-Lite if you’re feeling a little lost and have a wide foot.
What to Buy When On a Budget: Reebok Nanoflex V2
Outside of the Nanoflex TR 2, I’d highly suggest looking at older iterations if you’re budget-shopping for CrossFit shoes. Oftentimes, you don’t have to go for a “budget-friendly” option if you find older models. That said, if you can’t find any, the Nanoflex TR 2 work great.
Fave WODs to Do In Them
- WODs With A Lot of Lifting
- Workouts With Sled Work
- WODs With Full Body Work
Reebok Nanoflex V2
Pros
- Well-rounded performance for price
- Midsole is stable for heavy lifting
- Good forefoot width
Cons
- Flat feet may not love the arch support
- Not great for longer runs
- Lateral toe box can lack security at times
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- CrossFit (for those on a budget!)
- Cross-Training
- Versatile Training
- Budget-Friendly Shoppers
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 7mm |
| Weight | 11.2 oz |
| Width | Medium |
| Lifting Threshold | ~455 lbs |
| Mileage Threshold | <1 mile |
Sizing Thoughts
- Width: Medium
- Narrower Feet Sizing: True to size.
- Wider Feet Sizing: True to size. 3E+, pass on these.
- Flatter Feet Sizing: These have an arch to them.
- Relative Sizing: Go with the same size as Nike, Adidas, and Inov8.
My Full Review and Fave Alternative
- For More Info: Read My Review
- Good Alternative: TYR CXT-1 (marked down now)
- Reebok’s Return Policy: Learn more here.
Sneaky Good for a Fair Price
The Reebok Nanoflex V2 is an awesome budget option for CrossFit. This training shoe is attractive because the original Reebok Nanoflex TR wasn’t my favorite CrossFit shoe by any means. However, the V2 has some key updates for CrossFit settings.
For example, the Reebok Nanoflex V2’s RopePro feature is pretty good. It surprised me by giving me plenty of bite when rope climbing. I could see this model being best for beginners who rope climb here and there, but it doesn’t make up the brunt of their training.
I would even take the RopePro in the Nanoflex V2 and its performance over its more premium peers, such as the Reebok Nano X2 and Nano X1. The midsole in this model also provides a nice blend of stability and versatility for different types of WODs.
I’ve lifted well over 400 lbs in this model, and they’ve done an exceptional job for their price point. The midsole of this shoe should provide plenty of stability for most CrossFit beginners.
I also enjoy the outsole tread on this model and the durability it provides. This model has an extended outsole wrap that covers the toe box which is great for burpess durability. Additionally, this outsole provides a nice level of tread for jump rope, multi-directional exercises, and short runs.
My Favorite Buying Tips
When looking into CrossFit shoes, I’d suggest leading with four construction features. Believe it or not, I’m a total nerd with a spreadsheet that documents these four features of the shoes I buy and use.
I Track Things Like…
- Assess a shoe’s midsole density.
- Pay attention to whether the shoe uses a full rubber outsole for traction.
- Review the shoe’s upper and ensure it’s not problematic due to durability issues from abrasion.
- Make a note of how a shoe fits and sizes based on other’s feedback.
Peep the example below.
| Dropset 2 | Reign 6 | |
| Midsole | ~500+ lifts | ~455 lbs |
| Outsole | Full rubber | Full rubber |
| Upper | Light & breathable | Heavier |
| Sizing | TTS, | Med/Wide(r) Fit |
Most premium CrossFit shoes cost $130-$150, which can be steep for some athletes and beginners who are getting into this sport. If you don’t want to pay full price for your shoes, look into older models.
Often, companies will mark down older CrossFit shoes as they release new models fairly often. Older shoes can help you save money and will typically perform strongly.
How Should Your Shoes Fit for CrossFit?
Answer: Generally, I recommend having roughly .2″-.6″ of space in the toe box of your shoe that you plan to use for CrossFit
If you like having a snugger fit, then aim for the lower end of that range, and if you like having a bit more room or if you have a wider foot, then you may want to size accordingly to the larger side of the range.
When Testing, Here’s What I Look For
I’ve been testing training shoes for over seven years and have been a trainer for over a decade. When testing shoes for CrossFit, I perform a battery of tests, which I’ve discussed on my YouTube channel. For testing CrossFit shoes, I’m focused on four key features.
- Stability: This entails assessing a shoe’s midsole and its limits for promoting stability when training heavy. I squat, clean & jerk, and deadlift heavy in every CrossFit shoe and use those to assess a shoe’s stability.
- Versatility: This revolves around testing a shoe’s responsiveness, comfort, and breathability. I pay attention to how reactive the midsole feels and how the sole articulates during box jumps, double-unders, and short runs.
- Durability: To assess durability, I’m purposely trying to beat the heck out of a shoe’s upper and midsole. Whether it’s with burpees or rope climbs, I’m trying to find at what threshold you can expect a shoe to break down.
- Value: Inflation is a very real thing we’re all navigating today. As CF shoe prices increase, so does the importance of getting your money’s worth. This entails tying a shoe’s price to its long-term durability and value.
At this point in my career, I have tested hundreds of shoes, so recognizing the context between different CrossFit shoes is helpful. I have personally tested every shoe featured in this article.
At the End of the Day…
There are a ton of different shoes on the market that work great for a diversity of WODs, and each model excels in different areas of performance for various reasons.
My best piece of advice when searching for new shoes is to focus on what exactly you personally need most from your shoes with your CrossFit workouts — think: anatomical asks, preferences, and comfort needs — then consider how you like your shoes to fit.
If you have any questions about the shoes featured in this article, drop a comment below or contact me personally via Instagram (@that_fit_friend or @jake_boly).
Sobhi Youssef
Always a great read. I understand you’re saying rad one is better than Savage one and CXT 2, however your rating says the latter two are superior overall. In general what context pushes the latter two ahead?
Ratings are based on the same criteria I set for each shoe, and then there ranking in these lists ebb and flow based on the performance and sizing category. In the case of the RAD and its overall spot, that’s due to its versatility across the board and how it can transcend the gym and look stylish. It feels a little better for running WODs compared to the CXT-2 and can also be a daily driver, so despite it having a slightly lower score due to some individual power rankings, it does offer more range for various WODs hence their placement!
josh
Wow this is some great info, thank you. Been struggling to find any shoes that feel rite, they all feel terrible. Tried orthotics for 10 years. Rite now wearing whitin trail shoes in a 43 from Amazon $40. They are the best so far. Wish they were a little thicker, the issue I’m finding is with longer toes, the big toe sits to far back where the arch support starts and it falls over the edge a bit. If I could find some shoes with zero arch, wide toe box, and slightly thicker, would be a dream. The Vitkos are out of stock any alternatives?
Have you tried the Born Prim Savage 1s with the insole out? That might be the move if you haven’t!
Thank you for checking out the content!
Gary
Thanks for the thorough reviews. I also like that you list heel-to-toe drop which is important information! These reviews are probably the best place to start training shoe selection.
Thank you, Gary! If you ever have additional feedback on what else I could add to help you out in your search, I’m all ears. This site is built for the community so I want to make sure I’m providing as much context as possible.
Renato Valenzuela
Hey Jason!
Would you recommend any of this for training kickboxing outdoors? (Jumping, kicking, twisting and turning) if not, which one?
Love your content and thanks in advance!
Haha, Jason?!?! My name is Jake! Go for the Reebok Nano X3 Adventure. Not featured in this list but it’s a good spin-off outdoor-focused model!
Angelo Orlando
Hey Jake,
I noticed that you rated the Tribase Reign 6 higher than all of these shoes but they didn’t even crack the top 10? Am I missing something? Just curious why you thought they didn’t make the cut?
Thanks!!!
Great Q — As of right now, they’re featured as an alternative for the guy’s section. With niche lists like this, I always tend to wait to update them based on the longer term performance of a shoe.
Plus, when discussing how I rate shoes on my site — every shoe has a 1 to 5 rating and that’s based on their overarching performance. Then, as we get more niche with performance asks like with CrossFit, I cross-reference that broad rating against other models dialed for that activity for the specific sub-category which makes it a little more gray regarding all out scores. My goal is to add the Reign 6 to this list into a #1 spot in the next few weeks assuming they keep performing well! For example, the Haze is a sick minimalist-feeling shoe for CrossFit, but in the grand scope of all trainers their durability and runnability (read, versatility) do bring their score down a bit. However, because they are more dialed for CF, they earn a top spot comfortably even though their rating may be a smidge lower than some of their peers.
Angelo Orlando
Thanks for the detailed reply!!!
That makes sense, as an FYI, the Sueze Haze Trainer is my current go to for pretty much everything CrossFit at the moment. I’ve been wanting to try something new and was considering the Reign 6 or the X4. I think I’m gonna roll with the Reigns.
Thanks again!
Haha, thanks for listening to my over-analytical ramble.
Let’s go! Love that you’ve been digging that model — such a sick shoe. Thanks for rocking with the content!