Reebok is nearly synonymous with CrossFit shoes, and for good reason. They defined what a CrossFit shoe should and could be with the Nano series.
Since then, they’ve received solid competition every year from the other big-name brands, such as the Metcon 9 from Nike and the TriBase Reign 6 from Under Armour. Now, smaller brands are starting to enter and disrupt the space. RAD is one of the few actually holding their ground.
The RAD ONE V2 is RAD’s second swing at an all-in-one trainer (with a bias for CrossFit). It comes with some thoughtful updates and improves on what was already a solid shoe. The Reebok Nano X5, on the other hand, is a more mainstream model that’s recaptured some of what made the Nano a great shoe in the first place, without sacrificing the development and improvements along the way.
So what happens when a legacy brand and a scrappy newcomer go head-to-head?
I’ve put both shoes through the gauntlet of lifting, CrossFit, cross-training, short runs, and daily wear so you don’t have to. I’ve definitely got some options and my own take as to which one actually earns its place in your gym bag. Let’s get into this David versus Goliath matchup.
Performance Quick Hits
If you don’t feel like reading and just want the nuts and bolts of the equation, then skim the following section. The head-to-head performance summary will give you most of what you need to know before buying.
Which Is Better for Lifting: The RAD ONE V2 has a wider, flatter platform and a heel that feels more planted thanks to the TPU insert. The softer midsole over the V1 makes it easier to ground your toes. If you’re chasing numbers on your squats, deadlifts, or Olympic lifts, this shoe gives you more confidence under heavy loads. However, both shoes are pretty stellar and from a pure lifting context, I wouldn’t overthink or stress this match up too much.
Which Is Better for CrossFit: Both shoes hold up well, but the RAD ONE V2 is more purpose-built for CrossFit whereas the Nano X5 has taken a step more being a true generalist. The outsole wraps on the RAD ONE V2 give you extra bite on rope climbs, and the solid rubber tread won’t break down as quickly. The shoe just feels more composed during functional workouts. If CrossFit is your main jam, the RAD ONE V2 edges ahead.
Which Is Better for HIIT/Versatile Workouts: The Nano X5 is lighter, more breathable, and more flexible through the forefoot. That makes a big difference when you’re doing circuit work, plyometrics, or lateral movements. The split outsole gives you more freedom to move quickly, and the lighter build makes directional changes feel snappier compared to the RAD ONE. If your workouts skew toward jumps, classes, cuts, and athletic movements, the Nano has the edge.
Which Is Better for Short Runs: Neither of these is a true running shoe, but for 400–1600m runs, the Nano X5 is a slightly more forgiving option. The dual-density midsole offers a more accommodating ride through the forefoot and a smoother heel-to-toe transition. It’s comfortable enough to handle short runs without beating up your feet, especially if you’re mixing them into your warm-ups or cool downs. The RAD ONE V2 can work for these distances, but their bulkier build and breathability hinder them from taking the edge here.
Which Is Better for Daily Wear: The Nano X5 is a bit more breathable and less bulky, making it a better option for all-day comfort. It doesn’t run as hot thanks to the Flexweave upper. If you’re rocking these to and from the gym, or just want one shoe that can train and chill, the Nano is easier to live in.
If you stop reading this article here, take my advice and grab the RAD ONE V2 for CrossFit/lifting focuses, and opt for the Nano X5 if you’re truly on the fence between them and do a lot of cross-training. The Nano X5 is a slightly lighter, more breathable shoe while the RAD ONE V2 has a bit more steeze.
RAD ONE V2
Reebok Nano X5
Sizing & Fit Thoughts
In all of my reviews I buy and test size 10 shoes. I traditionally size true to size for US 10 shoes and have a normal arch/instep and an E/EE width foot. My recommendations below are based on how these shoes fit compared to one another and the countless other shoes I’ve reviewed.
RAD ONE V2 Specs (for my size 10)
- Weight: ~13.45 oz
- Drop: 6mm
- Upper: Heavier synthetic with layered support
- Insole: Thin foam, removable, swappable for custom fit
Reebok Nano X5 Specs (for my size 10)
- Weight: ~13.3 oz
- Drop: 7mm
- Upper: Flexweave mesh
- Insole: Thin foam, removable
Narrow Foot (<D) Sizing Suggestions:
- RAD ONE V2: True to size.
- Reebok Nano X5: True to size.
Medium Foot (D) Sizing Suggestions:
- RAD ONE V2: True to size.
- Reebok Nano X5: True to size.
Wide Foot (E/E+) Sizing Suggestions:
- RAD ONE V2: True to size for E/EE.
- If you’re 3E+, try taking the insole out and it should give you more space.
- Reebok Nano X5: True to size.
- If you’re 3E+, you may want to pass on these.
Flat Foot Thoughts: Both shoes feature a prominent arch. Thankfully, both shoes also feature a removable insole that can help mitigate some of that discomfort. If you have flatter feet, you may want to look into models like the Born Primitive Savage 1.
Performance Analysis (Going Deeper)
Lifting Showdown
Both of these shoes are capable in the weight room. From heavier free weights to machines to strength and hypertrophy work, you’ll be happy with either of these options to be completely honest. I’ve deadlifted over 400 lbs, squatted over 300 lbs, and have done cleans at 265 lbs and down in both of these shoes.
The Nano X5 does a great job as a generalist. The dual-density midsole gives you a little more responsiveness in the forefoot for explosive movements like cleans, while providing a denser repose in the heel for squats and leg press work. For the average gym-goer doing a mix of machines, free weights, and the occasional barbell complex, it holds up really well.
That said, the RAD ONE V2 gets the edge if lifting is your main priority.
The updated platform is wider and more stable than the V1. The TPU heel insert creates a nice grounded feel under heavy loads. The softer Swell Foam makes it easier to feel connected to the floor and helps to ground the toes during deadlifts and pulls. And despite having a thicker, denser upper, it does have a lower profile upper that doesn’t interfere with ankle mobility.
RAD ONE V2
$150
Pros
- Well-rounded in the gym
- Comfortable midsole
- Good lifting performance
Cons
- Upper can run warm
- Wave design is hit or miss
Best For
- CrossFit (good do-it-all shoe)
- Lifting
- Cross-Training
- Streetstyle Lovers
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6mm |
| Weight | 13.25 oz |
| Width | Medium/Wide(r) |
| Lifting Threshold | ~535 lbs |
| Run Distance Threshold | <2 miles |
CrossFit Assessment
The RAD ONE V2 is built with CrossFit in mind, and it shows. From rope climb durability through its purpose built construction, it holds up. The outsole wraps and midfoot stability make it feel like a proper tool for CrossFit. Whether you’re transitioning between Olympic lifts, burpees, or box jumps, the RAD ONE stays composed.
That said, the Nano X5 doesn’t fall apart here either. It’s got a redesigned outsole compared to the X3 and X4 that doesn’t get in the way and rope-protective tech on both sides. It just leans slightly more toward the everyday athlete who hits a WOD a couple times a week versus someone living in the box. It also breathes more than the RAD ONE V2 for those hotter boxes or if you run warm.
If you prefer to live in the box, the V2 is going to be the more purpose built shoe for you
Cross-Training Counterargument
When you make the switch from CrossFit-specific training to a more generalized cross-training session, the X5 starts to take over from the V2.
The softer forefoot and lighter upper give it the agility edge for athletic-style training. Think lateral bounds, sprints, broad jumps, anything that requires quick directional changes, the X5 wins. The breaks throughout the midsole make it a more flexible and nimble shoe than the V2.
The RAD ONE V2, by comparison, feels a little too built out for cross-training. The upper runs hot, and the extra heft can start to show during fast-paced drills and agility work. It’s not bad, it just doesn’t feel optimized for this lane.
If your workouts skew more HIIT and less WOD, the Nano is the better tool.
Short Runs
Let’s be clear, you’re not taking either of those out for a 5K or trail run. But if your runs are more structured like sprint repeats or intervals, or if you like an easy 1-mile warm up or cool down, these shoes both fit the bill nicely.
The RAD ONE V2 performs fine, and the softer Swell Foam makes a difference compared to the stiffer RAD ONE V1. That said, it does feel heavier and clunkier, and the lack of breathability can be a hindrance here.
The Nano X5 offers a more forgiving ride thanks to its plush forefoot and dual-density construction. The smoother transition from the heel through the toe makes it slightly more comfortable for short jogs and sprints. The X5 has a more accommodating ride at the end of the day.
Reebok Nano X5
$140
Pros
- Midsole is well-rounded
- Outsole has good grip
- Great shoe for a little bit of everything
Cons
- Arch can bother flat feet
- Tongue runs a bit short
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- CrossFit
- HIIT
- Class Workouts
- Short Runs <1 Mi
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 7mm |
| Weight | 13.1 oz |
| Width | Medium/Wide(ish) |
| Lifting Threshold | ~475 lbs |
| Run Distance Threshold | < 2 miles |
Daily Wear and Comfort
This really is going to come down to personal preference between two solid options.
The RAD ONE V2 runs warmer and has a slightly higher arch, which may not play well with flatter feet. If you live in a colder or wetter climate, you might appreciate the sturdier build and fully rubber outsole. But overall, the Nano takes this one for casual comfort.
The Nano X5 feels more breathable and less constrictive on foot, especially in warmer climates. The lighter build and Flexweave mesh upper make it easier to keep on all day without overheating. From an aesthetics standpoint, I prefer the X5 over the wave construction of the V2.
Construction Details
Midsole
- Similarities:
- Both shoes use a foam midsole to provide stability without sacrificing responsiveness. They each feature compounds (Reebok’s Dual-Density Midsole and RAD’s Swell Foam) with different goals, but the same intention of giving enough cushion for jumps and runs without compromising the ability to lift heavy.
- Differences:
- The X5 offers Reebok’s Dual-Density Foam midsole that gives a softer ride through the forefoot and a more rigid, denser response through the heel. This helps the X5 feel springier on dynamic movements and runs, and stable and secure during heavy lifts.
- The V2 uses a single piece of Swell Foam that feels more uniform underfoot. The TPU insert in the heel helps to add that stability and security under load. The midsole is an improvement over the more rigid and stiff V1.
Outsole
- Similarities:
- Both shoes feature rubber outsoles with extensions over the toes and wraps up the medial and lateral sides of the shoes. The medial and lateral wraps are crucial for protection during rope climbs and lateral stability during cuts and jumps. Both offer a grippy tread pattern that provides solid traction across a variety of surfaces.
- Differences:
- The X5 has a split outsole that offers more flexibility and agility. The downside of this is it exposes the foam midsole through the arch and forefoot. This could cause the foam to deteriorate quicker if you train outdoors or in wet environments.
- The V2 opts for a full rubber outsole with a wave tread pattern. It is a more durable outsole seemingly than the X5, without the risk of deteriorating the midsole foam in wet conditions. It is a heavier outsole than the X5 and gives off a basketball shoe vibe with a bit of an edgier appearance.
Upper
- Similarities:
- Both shoes feature a secure and reinforced upper that stands up well to wear.
- Differences:
- The X5 features a flexweave upper that’s light and breathable. It has a more flexible feel through the forefoot and a low-profile TPU system that intersects on the lateral and medial sides. The padded mesh tongue is gusseted for added security.
- The V2 takes a more robust, built-out approach. Its thicker synthetic overlay on the upper lends to a warmer shoe. The added structure seems to improve durability and support, but at what cost?
Final Remarks
This is one of those rare matchups where both shoes actually show up and deliver. No major flaws. No weird pressure points. No clear winner across the board. Both shoes were stellar in the gym and delivered on a wide range of activities.
The choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference and will largely come down to aesthetics.
If you prioritize CrossFit or strength workouts, or if you vibe with a bolder aesthetic, the RAD ONE V2 is going to be your pick.
If you like to mix in a good amount of cross-training and want a bit more comfort on your runs, or if you run hot and want something with good breathability, the Reebok Nano X5 is likely the better pick.
Either way, rest easy knowing you’re getting a solid performer.
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