Since the first NOBULL Trainer, now known as Outwork, NOBULL shoes have continued to stay consistent with their original design while simultaneously evolving in different product categories.
For example, the NOBULL Outwork has remained pretty much unchanged over the last 9 years, but there have been multiple iterations and spin-off models since that have created variety for shoppers to choose from.
I’m constantly being asked questions about the different NOBULL shoes that I review on my YouTube channel and my site, so I built this guide to answer and cover some of the basic questions I’m constantly fielding.
If my NOBULL shoes guide helped you decide on on a model to buy, it helps a ton if you go through the links on That Fit Friend. I buy all of the shoes I review and discuss and this helps keep the lights on. Thank you!
New NOBULL Names Explained
A lot of NOBULL shoes have been rebranded and named. Trust me, it’s been a process of re-learning them over the last few months. They didn’t rename every shoe, though, just some of the core models.
- NOBULL Trainer = NOBULL Outwork
- NOBULL Trainer+ = NOBULL Impact
- NOBULL Ripstop Runner = NOBULL All Day Runner
Where to Buy NOBULL Shoes In-Store?
So, you want to try on a pair of NOBULL shoes to see if they fit before buying? The bad news is that most retailers don’t carry NOBULL shoes. Trust me, I know it’s annoying, and I spend most of my time helping others decide on sizes in comments and DMs.
The good news is that most NOBULL shoes have a consistent fit to them so once you get your sizing right the first time, it’s usually a safe bet to buy the same size again in different models.
Online Retailers That Sell NOBULL
Generally, the two most consistent online retailers for finding NOBULL shoes include NOBULL’s site and Rogue Fitness. Rogue only carries certain models, though, so if you want the full product catalog, go to the source AKA NOBULL.
There are other online retail outlets as well that have NOBULL shoes on them, like Amazon. However, oftentimes you’ll only find random sizes or lightly used NOBULL shoes on these platforms.
What Stores Sell NOBULL Shoes
As of right now, there are no current brick-and-mortar NOBULL stores open. I used to live by the SoHo location, and it was convenient to go in and try models on in-store — rest in peace.
- NOBULL SoHo: Closed
- NOBULL Boston: Closed
- NOBULL Miami (Wynwood): Closed
How Do NOBULL Shoes Fit?
- For most athletes and lifters, NOBULL shoes fit true-to-size.
However, with NOBULL offering so many different types of shoes now, I’d strongly suggest checking out their product details page and looking at other user-feedback reviews to get a better scope of how certain shoes fit others.
Regarding NOBULL Trainers, I’ve worn and trained in all of the core NOBULL shoes. While there’s a lot of commonality between every NOBULL shoe’s sizing, there are a few specific sizing differences that exist between the running shoes and training shoes.
NOBULL Low-Top Training Shoes Sizing Thoughts
- NOBULL Outwork: Go true-to-size. If you have a wide foot, then you may also want to go up a half size in this model.
- NOBULL Rec Trainer: True to size for most. Wide feet, size up a half-size or pass on them.
- NOBULL Impact: Go true-to-size. This shoe is a bit wider than the normal NOBULL Trainer and has a higher forefoot and midfoot volume so it may be a better option for anyone with custom insole/orthotics.
- NOBULL Turf Trainer: True to size for most. Wide feet size up a half-size or pass on this shoe.
- NOBULL Court Trainer: Go true to size. This shoe’s overall fit is identical to the Trainer+, so please refer to the sizing notes above.
- NOBULL Canvas Trainer: This model’s toe box and midfoot volume are pretty limited. Some athletes can get away going true-to-size in this model, but for many, especially those who wear thicker socks, you may want to go up a .5 size.
NOBULL High-Top Training Shoes Sizing Thoughts
- NOBULL Impact High-Top: Go true to size. If you have exceptionally narrow feet, size them down to half-size.
- NOBULL Outwork High-Top: Most should go true-to-size. If you have a notoriously wider foot or thicker ankles, then going up a half-size can be a good and safe call.
NOBULL Running Shoes Sizing Thoughts
- NOBULL All Day Runner: Go true to size. If you have a wider foot, you may not like this model’s forefoot and midfoot width, so you may want to explore different options.
- NOBULL Mesh Runner: Go true-to-size. The upper moves well and breaks in fairly easily.
- NOBULL Drive: Go trust to size. Narrow(ish) toe box.
If you have additional NOBULL sizing questions, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally and we can compare what you’re currently wearing to the NOBULL shoe you’re looking into so you can make the right sizing call.
On the market for new cross-training shoes? Try my cross-training shoe finder. I built this tool to pair you with the best training shoes for your specific needs. Plus, you can see if NOBULL models make my top picks for you!
NOBULL Outwork Vs NOBULL Impact
The NOBULL Outwork and NOBULL Impact have similarities concerning their construction and a few major differences worth noting. Both models perform well in the context of lifting and CrossFit, and the three bigger differences between these shoes are shown below.
Difference 1: Midsole Constructions and Stack Heights
The first major difference between the NOBULL Outwork and NOBULL Impact is their midsole construction and their stack heights. The Impact has a reworked EVA foam midsole that delivers a thicker construction compared to the Outwork.
This midsole doesn’t truly impact either shoe’s stability, but it does change this shoe’s stack height and toe spring. The stack height in the Impact is higher than the Outwork and it has a bit more toe spring due to its thicker nature.
I think the thicker midsole and extended outsole wrap are what cause the toe spring to be a little more dramatic in the Impact. It doesn’t impact performance a ton, but it does make it slightly harder to ground the toes during some exercises.
Difference 2: Outsole Constructions
The Impact has an updated herringbone lug patterned outsole that extends the length of the shoe. This outsole also wraps over the toe and extends up the lateral and medial midfoot for additional rope climb support.
I like the Impact’s outsole tread and think it gives this model a bit more traction on different surfaces. When training outdoors and on turf, this outsole gripped the ground well in a variety of training scenarios and when performing multi-directional activities.
Differnce 3: Reworked Lacing System and Width
One of the final core differences is that the Impact now features an internal lacing system as opposed to the traditional lacing system used in the Outwork.
This lacing system is designed to give the foot an even greater locked-down feeling when training and doing multi-directional exercises. The Impact is also a slightly wider shoe with greater volume throughout the midfoot and forefoot.
That said, I think if you have a wider foot or use custom orthotics, then this helps make the NOBULL Impact a better fit for your foot anatomy and training needs.
NOBULL Impact Vs NOBULL Court Trainer
Another popular NOBULL comparison that I’ve been receiving a lot of questions about regards the NOBULL Trainer+ versus the NOBULL Court Trainer. The Court Trainer is designed to serve as a CrossFit, cross-training, and court sports hybrid shoe.
I have written a deep dive comparison between the NOBULL Impact and Court Trainer. Check that out if you want the granular details between these two models if you want more depth.
Difference 1: Outsole Constructions and Performance
The NOBULL Court Trainer has an outsole tread to promote overall court sports performance. Yes, the Impact and Court Trainer both utilize a herringbone tread. However, the Court Trainer’s tread is less pronounced.
This outsole wraps over the toe like the Impact but has a larger bias towards the medial forefoot to prolong durability and promote grip when pushing off the forefoot and moving laterally for tennis and pickleball
Difference 2: Tongue Constructions
In the Court Trainer, you have a breathable tongue with additional padding to prevent bite from the tongue. I didn’t realize how much I enjoyed this until I wore this model more and more.
Compared to the Impact, I enjoyed the padded tongue construction in the Court Trainer. In my opinion, you don’t appreciate this construction detail until you’ve worn both models and have context between them.
Difference 3: Overall Performance and Intent
The third and final difference is the specific intent behind how each shoe is designed to be used. There are similarities like the fact that models utilize thicker EVA foam midsoles and SuperFabric uppers, so in the gym, they’ll perform similarly.
However, the real differences come out when you get more specific with your training. The Court Trainer is an awesome call for anyone like me who plays court sports regularly (huge pickleball fan here!) and wants a shoe to double as a go-to trainer.
The Court Trainer does a good job of filling a very specific niche with performance. The NOBULL Impact can be a good option for athletes who need a little more motion control, like to train outdoors, and are more general with their training.
I like the Court Trainer a tad more than the Impact. Both shoes produce similar levels of performance output in the gym, but this model also offers an added edge in performance for court sports and other recreational sports.
NOBULL Outwork Vs NOBULL Outwork High-Top
Of all the shoes NOBULL offers, two of their most popular models include the original NOBULL Outwork and the Outwork High-Top.
Despite having pretty much the same construction regarding materials used, they both perform slightly due to the higher boot in the high-top model.
Difference 1: Boot Constructions
The first difference and the most obvious is that the Outwork High-Top’s boot comes up much further than the traditional Outwork. The higher boot provides a bit more ankle support.
When laced tightly and fully up, I have noticed that the boot can limit dorsiflexion slightly when squatting. This is similar to most high-top shoes that have sturdy upper constructions like the NOBULL Outwork’s Superfabric.
That being said if you’re training in the high-top model, then you may want to experiment with how tight you want them when it comes to your performance. Check out the image above to see how the Outwork and Outwork High-Top boot sizes on me.
Difference 2: Foot Temperature
Another not-so-commonly discussed difference between these two trainers is the foot temperature they can both provide. The high-top model is not always my favorite shoe for longer sessions in hot settings because this shoe can make your foot exceptionally hot.
The upper construction in both models is super durable and lightweight. However, the Superfabric isn’t the most breathable, so that is a difference worth noting in some contexts for the high- and low-top models.
I like the high-top trainer better and use it more often than the low-top model, so I don’t necessarily see this as a bad thing, but it is something to note that there is a difference between these two shoes.
NOBULL Outwork Vs NOBULL Canvas Trainer
If you’re considering the traditional NOBULL Outwork that features SuperFabric or the NOBULL Canvas Trainer, then you’re likely wondering, what are the main differences between these models.
Difference 1: Upper Constructions
The NOBULL Outwork comes with SuperFabric, which is a type of fabric that has strategic guard plates covering the core material. These guard plates are lightweight and help a ton with abrasion resistance.
The NOBULL Canvas Trainer has a thick upper canvas that is fairly rigid out of the box. This canvas feels like the big brother of the canvas that you get on most Vans and Converse shoes. It’s heavier than the SuperFabric and is not the most breathable.
Difference 2: Sole Constructions
Another core difference between the NOBULL Outwork and the NOBULL Canvas Trainer is their sole constructions. The Outwork comes with a high-density foam midsole that has strategic rubber outsole wraps for increased durability.
This shoe’s sole feels similar to what you get with other top cross-training shoes. The NOBULL Canvas Trainer has a thick rubber sole which I’d compare to the sole of what you get in most Vans models.
It’s a bit heavy and feels a tad clunky for plyometrics, running, and other power-focused activities. Regarding lifting, I like this sole for the most part, but it’s not the most responsive for CrossFit workouts.
NOBULL Rec Trainer Vs NOBULL Outwork
The NOBULL Rec Trainer is one of the newer training shoes in NOBULL’s line-up, and it’s arguably the weakest shoe to date — in my humble opinion. If you want to learn more, I explain why in my NOBULL Rec Trainer review.
Difference 1: Upper Constructions
The NOBULL Rec Trainer features a soft knit upper construction that form-fits the foot pretty well. Compared to the Outwork, the Rec Trainer’s upper breathes a lot better, especially for daily wear.
The volume of the Rec Trainer sits pretty low on the foot, and I think it can feel limiting for thicker and wider feet, which is why I suggest treading lightly if you need more width and volume in my review if you need more spacious shoes.
Difference 2: EVA Midsole and Outsole
The Rec Trainer’s EVA midsole is much softer and plush compared to the Outwork’s higher-density EVA foam. This gives the Rec Trainer a more comfortable ride for walking but cuts into this shoe’s overall durability.
In addition to having a softer ride, the Rec Trainer’s outsole is also built with EVA foam, which is less than ideal for training and long-term durability. I’ve had slip issues with the Rec Trainer on turf, and mine started noticeably scuffing after just 20 miles of walking.
If you want a shoe for lifting and cross-training, go with the NOBULL Outwork. In my opinion, the Rec Trainer is only useful for those who want a pair of shoes for casual training and daily wear.
NOBULL All Day Vs NOBULL Mesh Runner
Two popular NOBULL running shoes include the NOBULL All Day and NOBULL Mesh Runner. I received a fair amount of questions about both of these models and their subtle differences.
The Ripstop and Mesh Runner both have similar core construction features. However, there are three differences that I think are worth knowing if you’re debating between the two shoes.
Difference 1: Upper Constructions
The first difference between the All Day and Mesh Runner is their upper and tongue construction differences. The All Day features a lightweight ripstop material throughout the entirety of its upper and it breathes well.
In addition, this material is super easy to clean, which I like for running outdoors and tackling lighter gravel and dirt trails. The Mesh Runner’s upper construction has a slight edge for breathability compared to the All Day, and it stretches a bit more.
The All Day has less give or stretch than the mesh runner, especially out of the box. The tongues are also built slightly differently.
The tongue in the All Day is a bit softer and has a tad bit more padding compared to the Mesh Runner. I like this for comfort purposes, and you can more easily wear no-show socks with the All Day without the tongue cutting up your ankles.
Difference 2: Outsole Tractions and Patterns
Another difference between these two models is their outsoles and the traction they provide. These running shoes utilize full rubber outsoles with lug patterning, but their patterning is slightly different.
The Mesh Runner’s lugs are a bit smaller, and the outsole has a bit more “give” to it when it comes to maneuverability out of the box. The All Day’s lugs are denser, and the outsole, as a whole, feels a bit more rigid compared to the Mesh Runner.
Both models provide adequate traction for both indoor and outdoor runs; however, if you are primarily running outdoors, then I would consider the All Day due to its outsole construction.
Difference 3: Heel-to-Toe Drops
Another difference between these two models is their heel-to-toe drops. As a runner, you likely have a preferred heel-to-toe drop you enjoy running on. The difference between these two shoes is fairly minimalist, but it’s a difference nonetheless.
- NOBULL Mesh Runner Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
- NOBULL All Day Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
Why Are NOBULL Shoes So Expensive?
NOBULL shoes tend to air on the more expensive side, and I think this is due to two reasons. First is NOBULL’s branding and marketing. NOBULL does a great job cultivating a community through its marketing and usage of its NOBULL professional athletes.
Both of these, I think at least, influence the price of NOBULL shoes specifically and make a majority of their gear a bit more expensive than other budget-friendly shoes on the market.
Second, NOBULL shoes are consistent and deliver consistent performance. I think once you’ve created certain products that have enough momentum behind them concerning positive feedback from mass community usage, then you can leave price points alone.
Thus, I think the price of NOBULL shoes never really fluctuates. However, please note that these are only my thoughts and opinions. Everyone has their idea and opinion as to why NOBULL shoes are so expensive and if they’re worth it.
When was NOBULL Founded?
NOBULL was founded in 2104 by ex-Reebok employees Marcus Wilson and Michael Shaeffer. Per Marcus Wilson’s LinkedIn page, NOBULL was officially founded in June 2014. However, NOBULL didn’t officially offer products to the public until 2015.
How to Clean NOBULL Shoes
To properly clean and wash your NOBULL shoes, I’d suggest spot-cleaning them. This method typically works really well on the SuperFabric upper used on most NOBULL training shoes.
3 Steps to Clean NOBULL Shoes
- Grab a clean washcloth.
- Apply some mild clear soap on the washcloth and dampen it with lukewarm water.
- Spot clean and wash areas by hand where you see dirt built up.
If you do these three steps, then you will make your shoes last much longer and add months to their lives. Far too often, I think lifters and athletes default to throwing their shoes in the washer and dryer or using harsh soaps on them.
Harsh soaps and waterlogging shoes in wash machines, then aggressively drying them in a dryer, can deteriorate the different types of materials used in shoes.
More specifically, the glues and polyurethanes used in midsoles and uppers are typically the first areas to run into durability issues when not cleaning shoes properly.
From my experience, too, NOBULL trainers specifically can be prone to having their midsoles change densities slightly when excessively waterlogged. That being said, spot cleaning, as mentioned above, will take longer, but your shoes will also last longer.
Have More NOBULL Shoe Questions?
As NOBULL continues to expand and dive into different product categories, it’s been cool seeing how their products have held up to others on the market. If you have any additional NOBULL shoe questions or how certain models perform, feel free to drop a comment below.
Also, if you have any NOBULL Trainer-specific questions that you’d like answered, you can also shoot me a message on Instagram and I’ll help where I can (@jake_boly).
Tricia
I am looking for a solid shoe that is good for being a healthcare worker & a waitress, with flat feet.
Looking exclusively at NOBULL? If so, the Mesh Runner or Impact could be okay options to explore first!
Kathy
Hey Jake,
I wear Nike Metform 5 in 8.5 (reg shoe 7.5) with my orthotics. I had both knees replaced last year and have back issues. My doctor recommended Nobull since they are flat – the wedge of the Nike seem to cause pain. My gym work is primarily mobility and weights. I also do a lot of walking. Any suggestions on shoes?
NOBULL aren’t fully flat FYI, the trainers all have 4mm heel-to-toe drops. If you do go NOBULL, the Outwork would be a good bet. If you want a flatter shoe, the UA TriBase Reign 6 has a 2mm drop. The BP Savage 1 also works great and has a 4mm drop, but a flatter feel!
Wendy Avila
Hi Jake,
I have an implant in my right big toe knuckle, and require a big toe box for to mobility. Which No Bull or shoe would you recommend for gym work?
Eh, I would honestly pass on NOBULL and go with something like a Born Prim Savage 1. You’ll get more toe box room in both width and upper volume contexts. The normal Outwork would prob be your best bet to try if you’re wanting a NOBULL shoe super bad, though.
Shari Pascuzzo
I take HIT classes and tend to easily roll my ankles. What shoe would you suggest to help prevent that?
Thank you.
Hey Shari — if you’re looking into NOBULL specifically, then the NOBULL Impact will be the move. If you’re open to other brands, then models like the On CloudPulse, PUMA PWR Nitro Squared, and Adidas RapidMove may be decent options (have reviews on all of them). They’re versatile and have decent soles for giving you a nice platform and boot constructions.
Mitch
My first pair of No Bulls were the original trainer in heather white identical to the first pair reviewed here. These shoes were awesome and I still have them and switch them in and out of my shoe rotation and they are still holding up well. I also bought a pair of No Bull Trainer + in black. I really do like these shoes. The soles are thicker but very hard so there is no squishy feeling. The trainer + shoes feel indestructible. I have them more than a year and wear them several times a week and they still look brand new. These shoes feel like they can last for years if I want to keep them that long.
Love hearing they’ve lasted for you! Thank you for sharing feedback on the various models you’ve tried!
Jessica Howard
Hi, I overpronate and am looking for a cross-training shoe. I haven’t run in a while and would like to get back into it. I typically wear Asics for running, but want a shoe for both, but need to be sure, it works for overpronating.
Thanks!
Hey, the Ripstop Runner should be a pretty good option to go with if you’re wanting one of the NOBULL running models the DRIVE can also be a suitable option. With the traditional NOBULL trainers, you’ll prob want to pass on running in them since they’re pretty dense/uncomfortable if you’re trying to tack on multiple miles at a regular frequency!
Donna Ouellette
I have the older version no bull trainers. I am typically a 7.5 in shoes, but have them in 8. I want to order the RipStop Runner. Should I go with an 8 in that also? Or my usual 7.5?
Hey! I would also go 8 in the runner, too. It runs a little narrow so the half-size up should give you a little more toe box room as well! Keep me posted.
Camille
My son is looking for a running/workout shoe that has some traction on grass during lacrosse training and workouts. Short distance outdoor and indoor running. Stopping/starting, shifting. Weight lifting. Somewhat flexible. What model do you recommend? His previous favorite running shoe was Nike with a similar tread to the Ripstop and Mesh runners bc of the traction. Thanks!
Hey! In that context, I’d go with the Ripstop. I think it will be a stronger shoe for his needs and the mesh’s upper will be too loose to lock the foot down when doing multi-directional training!
Nik Grant
Hi Jake!
Thank you for such a great look into these different styles of No Bull shoes and giving so much information on them.
I’m a large man, 6’10” around 285 lbs. I have old knee injuries from my basketball days, so when I’m on my feet a lot my feet and knees get sore. I’m wanting a shoe to wear to the gym for weight training but also something I can walk in. Nothing crazy long, but if I’m out walking 2-3 miles or maybe 5. I’m looking at the Trainer+, do you have an opinion?
Hey Nik! Thank you for checking out the content. The Trainer+ will be your best bet per the current NOBULL models, IMO! Def keep me posted on how you like them if you decide to grab a pair.
Nik Grant
Will do, thank you for your reply!
Mindy
Hello! I am looking at the trainer +. I am a normal shoe size 7.5 but do wear an 8 in my workout shoes (Brooks Ghosts). From the article and some of the reviews, i feel like i should get a 7.5 in the trainer + but feeling a little nervous they will be too small. I don’t have a wide foot or ankles.
Hey Mindy! I’d suggest going 7.5 in the Trainer+. Brooks can typically run a little short, so I think you’ll be on the money going true to size in the NOBULL Trainer+.
Joyce
Normally wear a 7 or 7.5, narrow. Will your shoes be too wide for me
They shouldn’t be!
Sherry Warren
Do women’s runners come in 11 wide?
Hey! They do come in size 11, but they don’t offer a “wide” option in regard to their sizes!
Kathy
I’m looking at the trainer+ but notice it says the shoe is unisex. Which makes me confused on the size to order. Do I order the men size to match my lady’s size or my normal lady’s size? Thanks
Hey Kathy! They have NOBULL Trainer+ (Women’s) product pages, so I think you’ll be safe ordering your normal size there if you purchase this model on those pages. IMO, I would assume NOBULL would adjust the sizes accordingly based on the pages they’re listed on!
Kathy
Thanks
Hilary
I am an Adidas Ultraboost snob, but have thought about trying the NoBull running shoes. My big thing is comfort. I’ve found not much compares with the ultraboosts. Have any thoughts on this? I wear a women’s 8.5 or men’s 7.5. How are the NoBulls sizing compared to that?
Hey! IMO, they’re not going to compare to your Ultraboosts. I believe NOBULL has a better running shoe dropping very soon, so it may be worth holding off on getting models until that shoe drops. The Mesh and Ripstop Runners are okay, but their comfort isn’t going to compare to the Ultraboost comfort that you like!
Sizing wise, I would go true to size in their runners if you have narrow/neutral width feet!
Hilary
Thanks! So many women at my gym have them and seem to love them, but I just have a hard time committing to anything other than my ultraboosts.
Welcome! Yeah, NOBULL running shoes could use a little update, IMO. They’re okay if you love NOBULL, but they pale in comparison to models that have been around for a while that also have more running tech in them. I’m excited to see how they innovate and update their running shoe models because I’m hoping they’ll only improve from here!
Dave
What about the performance of the Knit Runner? Also, I wear a size 14 in most shoes, but a 15 in Nike
I haven’t had a chance to try them yet! They’re on my to-do list, though. Should be safe with 14s in NOBULL shoes.
Ann
I have flat feet, overpronate and had a torn tendon in my arch. (Surgically corrected). We run a lot in my Crossfit class. What is the best shoe for me that offers good support?
Are you looking at NOBULL models specifically and do have you have a fit prferenence? Also, what do you currently wear?
Denise Davies
Do they have arch support? I battled with plantars fasciitis after wearing sneakers without arch support and I don’t ever want to go there again.
Not a ton! You would be better served putting your own insoles into most NOBULL models to get a bit more arch support.
Rich Darnell
Are the training shoes true to size? I wear a 12 I. Brooks and nike
I rock a 10 in all of the NOBULL models + Nikes and they fit fine. If you have a notably wider foot, then you may want to go up a .5 size, but otherwise, I think you’re safe going true to size!
lisa
I wear an 8.5 in new balance sneakers. Should i order that size or my true shoe size which is a 7.5
thanks!
Hey! It would depend on the model you’re looking into. If you want to play it safe, I feel like landing in the middle and going with an 8 would be a good first step. It’s really tough to say outright though with the range provided. The last construction will be different than New Balance, but should have more width so an 8 would likely work well!
Colleen
Hi Jake! I normally wear a neutral running shoe. Are the NO BULL running shoes considered neutral or stability?
Hey Colleen! They’re more neutral that stability, but that will vary slightly! The “Journey” (they just re-named/branded shoes) would be your closest model to a stability-esque running shoe!