The NOBULL Trainer+ is the latest cross-training shoe designed for lifting and CrossFit from NOBULL. The Trainer+ has a few key updates and construction changes compared to the original NOBULL Trainer. Both of these models deliver consistent performances, so that begs the question, “Should you go with the NOBULL Trainer+ or NOBULL Trainer?”
If we break down the construction of the NOBULL Trainer+ versus the NOBULL Trainer we can better identify which cross-training shoe is best for your training needs. As a fan of both the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer for slightly different reasons, I wanted to put together this comparison to help you decide which shoe to go with.
In this NOBULL Trainer+ versus NOBULL Trainer showdown, I’m going to cover a variety of topics to help you decide which NOBULL Trainer you should go with.
Contents
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NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer Performance
To break down the performance of the NOBULL Trainer+ versus the NOBULL Trainer, I’m going to talk about how these shoes perform in different contexts. This way you can better contextualize how these models would work for your training needs and wants.
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer for Lifting and CrossFit
For general lifting, the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer both perform really well. Each shoe’s midsole delivers enough stability to support heavy training sets and I’ve deadlifted well over 455 lbs and squatted over 355 lbs in both models without stability issues.
The NOBULL Trainer+ does have a slight have a bit more toe spring which could be something to consider for certain exercises. For example, the mixture of the Trainer+’s toe spring and higher stack height make it a less desirable cross-training shoe for deadlifts.
In the context of CrossFit, I like both of these models. I think the NOBULL Trainer+ will be more comfortable for most lifters and athletes during things like box jumps and shorter runs due to its reworked and thicker midsole.
For rope climbs and abrasion resistance, both of these shoes excel and I don’t think you can go wrong with either when it comes to their durability and tackling CrossFit workouts.
I think if you prefer having a lower-to-the-ground and more stable feel when lifting and doing CrossFit, then the NOBULL Trainer will be the call. However, if you like a bit more comfort and “bounce” in your shoes, then the Trainer+ is a good option.
Winner: It depends. For more stability, go NOBULL Trainer. For more comfort, go NOBULL Trainer+.
NOBULL Trainer
$129
Best For
- CrossFit-Style Training
- Lifting
- Daily Wear
- Casual Classes and HIIT
Falls Short
- For Running
- For Plyometrics and Athletic Training
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer for HIIT, Plyometrics, and Versatile Training
For the contexts of HIIT training, plyometrics, and more versatile training both of these shoes work, but I do think there’s a winner here. When it comes to the pros of both of these models’ training in this context I like the outsole and upper constructions in both shoes.
The outsoles in both models grip really well on a variety of surfaces and the upper constructions are highly durable which is another perk for outdoor training and versatile workouts.
Must Read: NOBULL Shoes Guide | Where to Buy Them, Cleaning Guide, and Much More
The main difference though is the support and responsiveness that comes with each model and this is where I think the NOBULL Trainer+ takes the edge. The medium-density EVA midsole in this shoe provides a bit more “pop” when jumping and it’s more forgiving for exercises like double-unders.
If you’re wanting a shoe purely for versatile training and you’re not worried about how the shoe’s stack height influences specific lifting asks, then the NOBULL Trainer+ is a really good option to explore.
Winner: NOBULL Trainer+
NOBULL Trainer+
$139
Best For
- Cross-Training Style Workouts
- CrossFit
- Recreational Lifting
Falls Short
- For Versatile Training
- For Cost-Efficiency
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer for Walking, Running, and Daily Wear
In the context of walking, running, and daily wear, both shoes will have slightly different performances for each setting. For daily wear, I like both models and feel that they’re good durable options for wearing out and about.
The full rubber outsoles protect the midsole construction in each model well and the upper construction is easy to clean which is another perk, especially if you’re wearing these for commuting and travel.
Regarding walking and running, I do prefer the NOBULL Trainer+ a bit more and this is due to the midsole construction and herringbone lug patterned outsole. I think this shoe is a bit more forgiving for running and walking and the outsole feels durable for tackling walks and runs on different surfaces.
Don’t get me wrong, you can use the NOBULL Trainer for short runs and walking, but I do think you’ll notice that its stability causes its overall comfort to dip a little bit.
Winner: NOBULL Trainer+, but for daily wear, both models are good options.
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer Construction
To discuss the construction of the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer, I’m going to discuss individual construction areas on each shoe. This will help this section hopefully be easier to parse through and read.
Outsole
One of the main construction differences between the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer is their outsole construction. Both models feature full rubber outsoles that help protect the midsole when training on different surfaces.
The NOBULL Trainer+ has a slightly thicker rubber outsole that is built with a herringbone lug pattern. The outsole of this wraps over the entirety of the toe box which I like for durability purposes.
The NOBULL Trainer features a full rubber outsole that has a traditional lug patterning. This outsole also wraps over the toe and does a good job with traction and durability.
Midsole
The midsole construction of the Trainer+ and Trainer is also one of the big differences between these models. The reworked midsole in the Trainer+ is designed to provide a more comfortable ride in this shoe.
In the NOBULL Trainer+, there’s a thicker medium-density EVA foam that runs throughout the entirety of the shoe. This midsole provides a slightly more responsive and comfortable feel compared to the NOBULL Trainer.
In the NOBULL Trainer, we have a fairly thin high-density foam midsole that provides a high level of stability when training. The NOBULL Trainer’s midsole has a slight edge for stability and gives you a closer to the ground feel when training.
The different midsole constructions also change the stack height in these shoes. The NOBULL Trainer+ has a significantly higher stack height compared to the NOBULL Trainer, and this is why I’m not the biggest fan of deadlifts in this model.
Upper
The upper construction in both models is consistent. The NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer have SuperFabric uppers that cover the entirety of the shoe with similar reflective NOBULL branding on the lateral heel.
While I like the SuperFabric upper in both shoes for durability purposes, I do think both models can run relatively hot at times. I noticed this model in the NOBULL Trainer+ and I think that has to do with their slightly heavier construction.
Laces and Tongue
The tongue construction in both of these shoes is consistent. Each model comes with a lightweight perforated tongue which does somewhat help with the shoe’s ability to breathe well.
The lacing system itself is slightly different in both shoes. The NOBULL Trainer+ features an internal web-lacing system with six eyelets that provides the midfoot in this shoe with a nice level of security.
The NOBULL Trainer has a traditional lacing system with five eyelets and metal eyelet rings. This model’s lacing system also provides a nice level of security despite being built differently.
Insole
Both of these shoes have removable insoles which is a nice feature for anyone that wants to put their own inserts and orthotics into these models. The upper volume in the Trainer+ is slightly higher so it may be a better bet for anyone with custom inserts.
You can use custom inserts in the NOBULL Trainer as well, but I’d suggest using thinner insoles in them if you plan to use your own. This will help prevent them from feeling too tight.
Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop
The heel-to-toe drop in the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer remains the same consistent drop that NOBULL has always used. The NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer both have a 4mm heel-to-toe drop.
Concerning weight, there is a difference between these models. The NOBULL Trainer+ is slightly heavier than the NOBULL Trainer and this is due to their thicker midsole and outsole materials.
- NOBULL Trainer+ Weight: 12.75 oz (for my size 10 model)
- NOBULL Trainer Weight: 10.7 oz (for my size 10 model)
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer Sizing
The sizing and fit are fairly consistent with both the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer. I think most lifters and athletes should be safe going true-to-size in both of these trainers.
However, there are a few specific sizing and fit scenarios where each of these models can vary. For example, in the NOBULL Trainer, you may want to size up a half size if you have a wide foot. This should award you with a little more room in the toe box.
Additionally, if you have custom inserts or insoles, then you may want to consider the NOBULL Trainer+. This shoe has a bit more volume through the midfoot and toe box which can accommodate the use of inserts better than the NOBULL Trainer.
- NOBULL Trainer Sizing Thoughts: Go true-to-size. Size up a .5 size if you have a wide foot.
- NOBULL Trainer+ Sizing Thoughts: Go true-to-size.
In the context of if you already wear NOBULL Trainers, then I’d say play it safe and opt for the size that already works for you. For example, if you wear a half size up in the regular Trainer, then you should go for the same size in the Trainer+.
If you have additional sizing and fit questions on the NOBULL Trainer and NOBULL Trainer+, hit me in the comments below.
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer Durability
Durability is an area where both the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer excel. Both of these shoes deliver durable construction to match the demands of most cross-training, CrossFit, and lifting settings.
Between these two models, I don’t think you’ll run into any glaring durability issues right away during your training sessions. Both models feature NOBULL’s signature SuperFabric on their uppers and they do well with abrasion resistance.
The medium-density EVA foam on the NOBULL Trainer+ also does a good job at preventing breakdown and they’re fairly easy to clean. This is similar to the high-density foam midsole used in the traditional NOBULL Trainer, too.
I also like that both models feature full rubber outsoles for anyone wanting to train outside in their NOBULL training shoes. These outsoles help protect the midsole and any form of scuffing or midsole breakdown that concrete and asphalt can cause.
The only area that I think could differ for each of these shoes’ durabilities is that I think the Trainer+ does have a slight edge for daily wear and outdoor training. I like this model’s thick outsole and herringbone lug patterning for really increasing this shoe’s ability to be durable in a variety of settings.
NOBULL Trainer+ Vs NOBULL Trainer Vs High-Top Trainer
If you’re debating between the NOBULL Trainer+, NOBULL Trainer, and NOBULL High-Top Trainer, I wanted to discuss a few similarities and differences across all of these models.
Regarding similarities, the upper construction is consistent throughout and every model features NOBULL’s SuperFabric upper material. Additionally, the midsole and outsole construction of the NOBULL Trainer and High-Top Trainer are consistent with one another.
That being said, similar to the NOBULL Trainer construction and performance comparison notes above, you can safely assume that the NOBULL High-Top Trainer and NOBULL Trainer+ will have similar performance and durability outcomes.
The main difference between these models is that the High-Top Trainer has a higher boot construction. This changes their overall fit and feel for daily and during cross-training workouts.
I think the boot in High-Top Trainer can be a little limiting for certain cross-training settings and this shoe can be a little hot at times, however, I do like the high-top build for daily wear.
NOBULL High-Top Trainer
$139
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Day-to-Day Wear
- Long-Term Durability
Falls Short
- For Versatile Training
- For Running
- For Cost-Efficiency
I think if you want a pair of NOBULL shoes for casual wear and lifting, then the High-Top model is a really good choice, but if you want a shoe for serious training that works well in a variety of settings, then go for the NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer as they will be the better call.
Price Comparison
The NOBULL Trainer+ and NOBULL Trainer have slightly different price points. The NOBULL Trainer has consistently been $129 USD since its launch to the mass market in 2015.
For the NOBULL Trainer+, you can expect to pay $139 USD. This $10 USD price increase could be justified if the Trainer+ aligns well with your performance and sizing asks for this shoe.
Both of these price points align with the market’s most popular cross-training shoes and I think if you love NOBULL and align with either model, then their prices can be justified. They perform well and have good levels of durability.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Are NOBULL shoes true to size?
Q:Can you run in NOBULL Trainers?
Takeaway Thoughts
I like the NOBULL Trainer+ and the NOBULL Trainer and think they’re good cross-training shoes in certain contexts. The Trainer+ delivers a more comfortable ride, while the NOBULL Trainer delivers a lower-to-the-ground stable feeling.
If you’re wanting a shoe for general CrossFit and lifting, then I don’t think you can go wrong with either of these shoes.
If you have additional questions on the NOBULL Trainer+ versus the NOBULL Trainer, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly).
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