Here Are 3 of My Favorite NOBULL Outwork Trainer Alternatives

So, you’re on the hunt for some NOBULL alternatives—either because you want shoes that outperform NOBULL training shoes or because you can’t find your size or preferred model.

Sure, NOBULL shoes have their perks, but they’re not without limitations. Whether it’s the lack of breathability through the upper or the lack of responsiveness for dynamic training, there are better alternatives out there.

Not to mention, the NOBULL training shoes, now referred to as the Outwork and Impact, feel somewhat dated. These models haven’t been updated in years and their peers have taken steps ahead of them, IMO.

My Top 3 NOBULL Outwork Alternatives

• Born Primitive Savage 1: Better for lifting, wider toe box, and excellent durability.
• Adidas Dropset 3: Perfect for lifting and versatile enough for athletic-style training.
• Inov8 F-Lite Max: Ideal for CrossFit, with a wider toe box and solid durability for intense sessions.

I swear, alternative-focused asks are about 50% of the comments that I receive on YouTube. With so many footwear options out there, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what fits similar to models and what outperforms its peers.

Pick 1: Born Primitive Savage 1

Why It’s Better

1. Offers better stability for heavy lifting.
2. Has a more generous toe box for natural toe splay.
3. The materials hold up well for both lifting and functional training.

Specs to Know

• Price: $130
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
• Weight: 11.2 oz (.36 kg/.8 lb for my size 10)
• Removable Insole: Yes

Sizing Advice

The Born Primitive Savage 1 runs true to size for most. If you have wider feet, you’ll appreciate the extra room in the toe box, which gives you better comfort and stability during heavy lifts.

Performance Compared to NOBULL Outwork

When comparing the Born Primitive Savage 1 to the NOBULL Outwork, the first thing that stands out the most on feet is the wider toe box. The Savage 1 allows for a more natural toe splay, which is crucial when performing heavy lifts like squats and deadlifts.

In contrast, the NOBULL Outwork’s narrow construction can feel restrictive during these movements, especially for lifters with wider feet. Additionally, the Savage 1 provides better stability. Its midsole is denser, which prevents excessive compression during lifts.

This is a nice advantage over the NOBULL Outwork, which can feel a bit soft under heavy loads, especially during deadlifts and squats. I’ve pushed 365 lb squats and 455 lb deadlifts in my Savage 1s with no issues whatsoever.

The SuperFabric upper on the NOBULL is durable, but it can also feel stiff and uncomfortable for longer sessions. The Savage 1 strikes a better balance between durability and comfort, making it a better option for both heavy lifting and functional training/CrossFit.

The outsole grip of the Savage 1 also outperforms the NOBULL Outwork, offering better traction during rope climbs and burpees, thanks to its reinforced design. Overall, if you’re a lifter who wants better foot positioning, stability, and comfort, the Born Primitive Savage 1 is a better pick.

At the end of the day, both models have good stability overall, but the Savage 1 delivers a better fit and a more well-rounded performance for CrossFit, cross-training, and strength training.

Pick 2: Adidas Dropset 3

Why It’s Better

1. Superior for both lifting and athletic-focused training.
2. More responsive for dynamic movements.
3. Offers a snugger, locked-in fit for explosive exercises.

Specs to Know

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
• Stack Height: N/A
• Weight: 12.85 oz (.36 kg/.8 lb for my size 10)
• Removable Insole: Yes

Sizing Advice

These tend to fit true to size, but if you’re between sizes or have wider feet, consider going half a size up for better comfort during extended sessions. The 2s felt wider, FYI.

Performance Compared to NOBULL Outwork

The Adidas Dropset 3 shines when it comes to versatility, especially for athletes who split time between lifting and dynamic workouts. One of the major limitations of the NOBULL Outwork is its blocky feel throughout its sole during movements like box jumps, sprints, and agility work.

The Dropset 3, on the other hand, offers a bit more responsiveness and has a better agile edge due to its dual-density midsole, which is designed to balance stability and flexibility. Flexibility in the forefoot and stability in the heel. Whereas the NOBULL is consistent throughout.

In lifting scenarios, the Dropset 3 performs similarly to the NOBULL Outwork, but I think it does have an edge if you like training shoes that have a “weightlifting shoe-like” feeling. However, where it really outshines the NOBULL is in athletic training.

The midsole of the Dropset 3 feels more responsive during plyometrics, jump, and explosive movements, making it a far better option for HIIT workouts or CrossFit-style training where you need both strength and speed.

I always discuss these shoes as being “athlete-friendly” in the context that I wish I had them in college for my workouts when I was playing team sports.

The outsole on the Dropset 3 also offers superior grip and traction across a variety of surfaces, while the NOBULL Outwork can feel less grippy on some gym floors over time. At least in my model, and maybe this is a “me” problem but my outsole has lost its edge a bit over time. If you’re someone who mixes lifting with more dynamic movements, the Dropset 3 is a solid option.

Pick 3: Inov8 F-Lite Max

Why It’s Better:

1. Excellent for CrossFit, providing grip and versatility.
2. Wider toe box for added comfort during high-intensity training.
3. Built for durability, even during high-friction movements like rope climbs.

Specs to Know

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm
• Stack Height: N/A
• Weight: 12 oz (.36 kg/.8 lb for my size 10)
• Removable Insole: Yes (BOOMERANG Footbed)

Sizing Advice

Stick with your normal size. The F-Lite Max offers a roomier toe box, so if you have wider feet or use orthotics, they should fit well without needing to size up.

Performance Compared to NOBULL Outwork

The Inov8 F-Lite Max stands out as a CrossFit-specific shoe that excels better across the board compared to the NOBULL Outwork. CrossFit athletes need shoes that can transition seamlessly between lifting, running, and functional movements.

The NOBULL Outwork, while stable for lifting, feels stiff and lacks flexibility during dynamic movements. The F-Lite Max, with its flexible forefoot and breathable upper, provides a much better experience for high-intensity workouts.

The wider toe box in the F-Lite Max is another key differentiator. Similar to the Born Primitive Savage 1, this design allows for more natural foot movement during lifts, whereas the NOBULL’s narrow fit can make it feel constricting.

Durability-wise, the F-Lite Max holds up just as well as the NOBULL, especially during high-abrasion activities like rope climbs. The grip provided by the outsole is another area where the F-Lite Max shines—offering superior traction for both indoor and outdoor training.

If you’re into CrossFit or any training that involves varied, high-intensity movements, the F-Lite Max offers better flexibility, durability, and comfort than the NOBULL Outwork, making it the superior choice for multi-functional athletes.

Why NOBULL Isn’t for Everyone

While NOBULL shoes are popular, they aren’t always the best choice for every lifter and athlete. I find that some lifters, myself included, find them too rigid or uncomfortable for more dynamic, fast-paced workouts.

Sizing size, others struggle with the medium-width toe box and limited midsole responsiveness. If your training involves more than just static lifting, it might be worth exploring other options.

If you have any questions or need help choosing the right pair for your training style, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to help you find the perfect fit!