As we head into the holiday season, a lot of us, myself included are starting to feel the holiday stress that comes with gift-giving. As someone who spends their days reviewing fitness-focused products, I wanted to put together a list of some solid gifts to explore.
In this gift guide, I tried to include a nice wide range of products in each category that I’ve hand tested. This way, if the guy in your life for example has wide feet, does mostly CrossFit workouts, or just wants a jogger for lounging, I can hopefully help suggest some great picks.
In this 2022 gift guide for active guys, you’ll find training shoes, barefoot shoes, weightlifting shoes, and apparel. All of the products discussed below are things that I use on a weekly and regular basis and that I trust for my performance.
Contents
Author’s Note: While the shoes in this gift guide work well for both men and women, the language in this guide will be more oriented for guys. I want this particular article to be useful for those buying gifts for the fitness-obsessed guys in their lives.
Cross-Training Shoes Gift Guide 2022
If your guy is into working out and cross-training on a weekly basis, then they’ll need a good pair of shoes for supporting their performance. More than likely, you’ve heard him talk about his gym shoes on more than one occasion.
Below, I’m going to provide three of my favorite cross-training shoes that have pretty well-rounded performances. This way, if your guys like to lift, jump, and do athletic-style workouts, you can be confident that you’re getting him shoes to help him excel.
1. Reebok Nano X2
The Reebok Nano X2 can be a great cross-training shoe for doing a little bit of everything. I think if you’re buying a shoe for a guy that you know likes to lift, jump, and do some forms of agility and plyometric work, then it’s tough the fault the Nano X2’s performance.
This shoe’s midsole is built with Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam and this material is stable enough for heavier lifting and bouncy enough for doing things like jump rope, classes, and HIIT-style workouts.
The upper on the Nano X2 also does a good job at delivering a fairly nice level of breathability and it has a pretty good-looking appearance. There are also a ton of colorways for the Nano X2 and you can typically find them on sale.
My only concern with the Reebok Nano X2 is that it does fall a little short for CrossFit, and more specifically, rope climbs. If you’re buying this shoe for a guy that goes hard in CrossFit workouts, then you may want to explore the CrossFit shoes below or stress to not rope climb in them.
- Best For: Doing a Little Bit of Everything
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: Narrow/neutral-width feet, go down a half size. Wide feet, stay true to size.
- Read My Review: Reebok Nano X2 Review
Reebok Nano X2
$135
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
- Casual CrossFit Sessions
- Shorter Runs
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
2. Nike Metcon 8
The Nike Metcon 8 is another great shoe to explore for the guy that likes to do everything in the gym on a weekly basis. This shoe will have a bias towards lifting and can also hold its own for versatile training and CrossFit workouts.
In the Nike Metcon 8, the midsole is built with a Nike React Foam. The forefoot feels maneuverable and athletic, while the heel is built with Nike’s TPU Hyperlift insert, which gives the heel a much more firm and stable feeling.
If you’re buying a shoe for a guy that primarily plans to lift on a weekly basis, but also does throw in CrossFit workouts and versatile sessions here and there, then the Metcon 8 can be a viable option to explore.
My only knock against the Nike Metcon 8 is that its heel can be a little blocky for daily wear and running. If you know your guy likes to add in a few miles with their gym sessions, you’ll want to pass on the Metcon 8 and explore the other options on this list.
- Best For: Lifting and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 12.4 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to size.
- Read My Review: Nike Metcon 8 Review
Nike Metcon 8
$130
Best For
- Cross-Training
- CrossFit and CrossFit-Style Workouts
- Lifting
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Running
3. UA TriBase Reign 4
The Under Armour TriBase Reign 4 can be another great all-around training shoe for the guy that does all types of training. I like the TriBase Reign 4 mostly due to its versatility and overall durability.
The TriBase Reign 4 is built with Under Armour’s signature Micro G Foam midsole. This material gives this model a nice level of bounce for things like jump rope and plyometrics, but it’s also stable enough for heavier weight training.
This shoe also features Under Armour’s TriBase Reign tech on the outsole, so it has a nice stable feeling to it when doing athletic-style training. I like the TriBase Reign 4 as a shoe for guys who play recreational sports and want a model for training for them.
If you’re buying for someone who typically like to vary their training and has worn Under Armour shoes before, then UA TriBase Reign 4 can be a good option to explore. They’re pretty durable and have a good level of versatility.
- Best For: Lifting, HIIT, and CrossFit-Style Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2mm
- Weight: 13 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: UA TriBase Reign 4 Review
UA TriBase Reign 4
$120
Best For
- CrossFit and Cross-Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Focused Training
Falls Short
- For Wider Feet
- For Longer Runs
CrossFit Shoes Gift Guide 2022
While all of the shoes above will technically work for CrossFit, there are a few models that are designed fully and specifically for CrossFit-style training sessions.
If you’re buying shoes for the avid CrossFitter in your life, then you’ll want to explore training shoes designed specifically for CrossFit. The shoes below are models that I think will earn you CrossFit bonus points.
1. RAD ONE
The RAD ONE can be a great training shoe to buy for the avid CrossFit athlete in your life. Whether they’re just starting out on their CrossFit journey or have been in the game for multiple years, the RAD ONE is a shoe that typically doesn’t disappoint.
This shoe has a nice responsive midsole construction so it feels good for double-under and box jumps, and it’s also stable enough to train heavy. It’s a pretty safe option for all skill and strength levels when it comes to CrossFit WODs.
On top of being a strong performer, the RAD ONE also delivers a pretty durable construction. There’s a TPU wrap that protects the midsole from rope climb breakdown and the upper does a good job with abrasion resistance.
The only two drawbacks with the RAD ONE are that they can run a little warm and they’re tough to get ahold of at times, and if they’re sold out when you look for them, then the other cross-training and CrossFit shoes on this list will suffice.
- Best For: Lifting and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
- Weight: 12.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: RAD ONE Review
R.A.D ONE
$150
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- CrossFit Workouts
- Recreational Lifting
- HIIT Training
- Athletic-Focused Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
2. STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer
The STR/KE MVMNT has quickly become one of my favorite cross-training shoes over the last year. This model features a medium-density midsole for supporting a variety of training settings and has a highly maneuverable sole construction.
You can lift heavy in this shoe, use it for CrossFit workouts, and it works well as a daily wear shoe due to its refined and simplistic appearance. This shoe also has a nice level of mobility to it and it feels flexible when training.
I’m also a fan of the width of the toe box in this model and find it fits most lifters and athletes pretty well. The low-profile jaquard knit upper gives this shoe a nice athletic and snugger fit throughout its upper.
For anyone that loves to vary their weekly training with lifting and CrossFit, the Haze Trainer should be a good shoe for accommodating their wants and needs. If you know you guys also like more flexible shoes, they’ll enjoy this.
- Best For: Lifting and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 11.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: STR/KE MVMNT Haze Trainer Review
STRIKE MVMNT Haze Trainer
$150
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Cross-Training Workouts
- Athletic-Focused Sessions
- Shorter Runs (<3 miles)
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Custom Orthotics
3. TYR CXT-1 Trainer
The TYR CXT-1 Trainer is another great shoe to look into for the CrossFitter in your life. This shoe is newer on the CrossFit scene, and it’s been a consistently strong performer for multiple types of WODs.
The CXT-1 Trainer features a Surge NRG Foam midsole which gives them a nice blend of responsiveness and stability. In the context of training, this is the type of model that works well for heavy squats, plyometrics, and even short fast-paced runs.
Another perk of the TYR CXT-1 Trainer is that it has a good level of arch and boot support. If you know your guy needs a little more arch support in their shoes, the CXT-1 Trainer can be a good model to fit that ask.
Additionally, this shoe has a higher 9mm heel-to-toe drop, so they’ll typically work well for taller lifters who naturally enjoy a little more “heel” when doing things like thrusters, squats, and wall balls. These can be good trainers for taller lifters.
- Best For: Lifting and CrossFit
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9mm
- Weight: 12.65 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: TYR CXT-1 Trainer Review
TYR CXT-1 Trainer
$130
Best For
- CrossFit/Cross-Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic-Style Workouts
- Athletes That Like Higher Drops
Falls Short
- For Minimal Drop Lovers
- For Athletes That Like “Minimalist-Style” Shoes
Weightlifting Shoes Gift Guide 2022
Weightlifting shoes are another awesome gift idea for the athlete and lifter that is getting more into strength training and strength sports.
Weightlifting shoes also referred to as lifting shoes and squat shoes, support exercises like squats, snatches, clean & jerks, and other movements where a heel wedge is desired.
1. TYR L-1 Lifter
The TYR L-1 Lifter can be a really good weightlifting shoe to explore if you’re buying a model for someone with wider feet. Compared to other weightlifting shoes, the TYR L-1 Lifter will provide the most width through the toe box.
I think if you know the guy in your life needs wider shoes, then the TYR L-1 Lifter is a safe option to go with when it comes to weightlifting shoes. This model works well for all skill and strength levels, too.
The TPU heel provides plenty of stability for heavy squats and Olympic lifts, and the dual mid-foot straps provide a nice amount of security in different lifting contexts.
I also like the level of durability that you get with the TYR L-1 Lifter. This weightlifting shoe should last a while so your investment will likely go the distance, which can help justify its $200 USD price point.
- Best For: Wider Feet, Squats, Olympics Lifts
- Heel Height: 21mm (.83 inches)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, athletes with wider feet may want to size up a half size.
- Read My Review: TYR L-1 Lifter Review
TYR L1-Lifter
$199.99
Best For
- Weightlifting
- Squats
- Recreational Lifting
- Wider Feet
Falls Short
- For Narrow Feet
- For Budget-Conscious Shoppers
2. Reebok Legacy Lifter 2
The Reebok Legacy Lifter 2 is one of my current favorite weightlifting shoes. This model is durable across the board and it’s a consistent performer for a variety of training needs.
For anyone that is getting more serious with their barbell training or wants to compete in strength sports like weightlifting, powerlifting, or CrossFit the Reebok Legacy Lifter 2 can be a good model to look into.
For security when lifting, I personally like the thicker mid-foot strap in this model and the heel construction. You get a nice locked-down feeling in this shoe and if you want them for squats or Olympics lifts, they’ll work well.
The TPU heel is also a nice construction feature with the Legacy Lifter II. This heel provides ample stability for all strength levels and the Legact Lifter II can be a great model for both beginners and weathered lifters.
- Best For: Squat and Olympic Lifting
- Heel Height: 22mm (.86 inches)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, athletes with wider feet may want to size up a half size
- Read My Review: Reebok Legacy Lifter II Review
Reebok Legacy Lifter 2
$200
Best For
- Weightlifting
- Squats
- Accessories With an Elevated Heel
- Heel Height: 0.86″
Falls Short
- For Functional Fitness Workouts
3. Adidas Adipower 3
The Adidas Adipower 3 can also be a great weightlifting shoe to explore for the guy that’s getting more serious with their squats and Olympic lifts (snatch and clean & jerk). You’ll know they’re getting more serious because they’ll likely talk about their lifts a lot.
I like the Adidas Adipower 3 because it’s a consistent shoe that delivers a stronger performance and pretty good level of durability. This shoe’s TPU heel is stable and its canvas upper construction does a good job with abrasion resistance and long-term durability.
Another benefit of the Adidas Adipower 3 is that it’s a pretty good continuation from the Adidas Adipower 2. If you’re buying these for someone who you know has used the Adipower or Adipower 2, you’ll likely be making a strong choice with the Adipower 3.
It’s worth noting that this model does fit a little more narrow and I think if you know your guy likes how Adidas typically fit, then the Adipower 3 will work well for their fit wants and needs.
- Best For: Squat and Olympic Lifting
- Heel Height: 22mm (.86 inches)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to size.
- Read My Review: Adidas Adipower 3 Review
Adidas Adipower 3
$220
Best For
- Weightlifting
- Squats/Lower Body Exercises
- Narrow/Neutral-Width Feet
Falls Short
- For Wide Feet
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Forefoot Mobility
Barefoot Shoes Gift Guide 2022
Barefoot shoes can also be another great gift idea for the lifter or athlete in your life. Barefoot shoes can help strengthen the feet and can provide a lifter and athlete another environment to expose their feet to with training and daily wear.
If the lifter and athlete in your life have mentioned anything about training their feet, then barefoot shoes can be an awesome option.
1. Tolos Archetype 1.0
The Tolos Archetype 1.0 is a great barefoot shoe to explore if you’re buying for someone who primarily plans to use their shoes for training and casual wear. For these contexts, the Tolos Archetype 1.0 performs well and is a pretty safe option.
This shoe features a highly articulative sole construction, so they move well while training and you get a nice level of ground feel with them. With their 5.5mm stack height, you get a nice level of ground feedback with the Tolos Archetype 1.0.
The polyester mesh upper is also a perk of this shoe. It features a water resistant coating and it has a nice appearance to it, so this shoe can look good in a wide range of daily wear contexts and can even be dressed up.
I also like the tread patterning on the Tolos Archetype 1.0’s sole as it gives a little more grip that other barefoot shoes. If you’re looking for a barefoot shoe for a little bit of everything that doesn’t break the bank, then the Archetype 1.0 is a safe option to go with.
- Best For: Lifting, Daily Wear, and Vesatile Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
- Read My Review: Tolos Archetype 1.0 Review
Tolos Archetype 1.0
$115
Best For
- Daily/Casual Wear
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic Training
- All-Around Performance for the Price
Falls Short
- For Custom Insoles
2. Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
For the lifter and athlete that wants a barefoot shoe for both lifting and daily wear, it’s tough to fault the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III. This is one of my current favorite barefoot shoes because they look clean and they work in a variety of settings.
I also like that you can wear these casually and that they fit in well with most outfits. I think if you’re wanting to buy barefoot shoes for working out and you’re uncertain about which option to go with, then Primus Lite III can be a pretty safe bet.
I also like that this model has a nice amount of width so they work well for a wide range of guys. Plus, they have a removable insole so they have a nice level of variability with ground feel for both walking and working out.
Additionally, the upper construction in this model is durable and Vivobarefoot uses recycled materials to create this shoe. They’re not the most budget-friendly option, but when it comes to delivering a strong performance the Primus Lite IIIs excel.
- Best For: Lifting, Daily Wear, and Versatile Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
$160
Best For
- Heavy Weight Training
- Daily Wear
- Casual Workouts
- Lighter Runs and Athletic Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Longer Barefoot-Style Running Workouts
3. Xero Shoes Prio
The Xero Shoes Prio is a good barefoot shoe for the budget-conscious shopper buying for a first-time barefoot shoe wearer. This model has a price point of $89.99 which makes them one of the more budget-friendly barefoot shoes on the market.
The Xero Shoes Prio is a shoe designed to support training and daily wear. Whether you’re buying these for someone working out or wanting a barefoot shoe for walking, this model should perform well.
I personally like this model because it has a removable insole and it’s fairly durable. For these reasons, you can use this model to acclimate to barefoot shoes and use them in a variety of settings without having them break down too quickly.
I also like the Xero Shoes Prio for barefoot shoe beginners because they’re a no-frills option that tends to last a while. If you’re buying the Prio for a first-time barefoot shoe wearer, then you should feel confident with this model.
- Best For: The barefoot shoe beginner and budget-conscious shoppers.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes Prio Review
Xero Shoes Prio
$89.99
Best For
- Heavy Barbell Work
- Recreational Lifting
- Casual Runs
- Barefoot Shoe Newbies
- Cost Efficiency
Falls Short
- For Dedicated Barefoot Runners
Takeaway Thoughts
Hopefully, this 2022 men’s shoes gift guide helps you explore gift ideas for the lifters and athletes in your life. I wanted to put together a list of products that I thoroughly enjoy for my training and have vetted.
If you have additional questions about any of the products mentioned in this 2021 gift guide, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly)!
I personally test every product featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training gear. I buy the gear I test and may earn commissions on sales made through links on my site.
