The Reebok Nano X Unknown cross-training shoes are one of the most interesting training shoes that been released in the last six months. The Nano X Unknown iteration was designed to provide a different spin on more traditional Reebok training shoes.
The Reebok Nano X Unknown provides a lot of the same characteristics as the regular Nano X. However, the Nano X Unkown boasts a high-top construction which is a hit or miss for most lifters depending on their preferences.
Reebok Nano X Unknown Pros
The Reebok Nano X Unknown shoes have three key pros about their aesthetic and performance that I enjoy.
- Great Day-to-Day Model
- Decent Weight (despite being a high-top shoe!)
- Consistent Performance
In my opinion, the Reebok Nano X Unknown is one of the better training shoes for day-to-day wear. Very few cross-training shoes can be worn out and about and look “normal” and not so gym-focused. The Nano X Unknown does look like a training shoe, don’t get me wrong, but it can also pass as just a casual shoe to wear out and about. For example, the Nano X Unknown can be worn with shorts and pants and it looks good overall.
One of my concerns with high-top shoes designed for training is always the fact that usually, they’ll be heavier than their lower-boot peers. Contrary to the norm of this sentiment, the Nano X Unknown’s upper boot construction is lightweight and doesn’t add a ton of extra ounces to this model, so overall, its weight is pretty in-line with other cross-trainers.
The final aspect that I enjoy about the Nano X Unknown is that it possesses similar midsole and outsole characteristics as the Reebok Nano X. Essentially, the only difference between the Nano X and Nano X Unknown is the upper and the stable outsole and midsole that most love with their Reebok Nanos is consistent across the board.
Reebok Nano X Unknown Cons
The Reebok Nano X Unknown has two fairly big cons that potential buyers should know.
- Boot Durability
- Price
Overall, the boot durability is solid, but there is an aspect that consumers should be aware of. When pulling the shoe on, buyers should loosen up the laces fully to easily slide them on the feet. I didn’t do this one day when putting the shoes on in a rush and had the heel’s material rip on me.
To be fair, a lot of this is my fault, but I’m not the only that has experienced this issue and it’s frustrating, to say the least. If you plan to buy the Nano X Unkown’s, loosen them up before you put them on and avoid pulling on the heel’s material excessively to prevent ripping.
Another potential con is the price of the shoe. When they first came out their price was around $150.00 USD, but now they’re selling for $140.00 USD on Reebok’s site. It’s not the biggest deal compared to other Reebok Nano models, however, these are certainly not the most budget-friendly shoes on the market.
Performance
Overall, I really enjoy training in the Reebok Nano X Unknown from a recreational strength training point of view. It’s a model that feels just like the Nano X, but with a slight addition of extra heel and ankle support.
Lifting
Under the barbell, the Nano X Unknown provides all of the same stability as the original Nano X. It has a high-density foam midsole throughout that limits compression while also providing a baseline level of responsiveness. Additionally, the heel has a similar plastic heel wrap and the outsole still utilizes the split construction to support stability.
Agility and Plyometrics
With agility movements and plyometrics, I actually don’t really like this model compared to other training shoes. The high-top construction is lightweight and maneuverable and it works for this style of training, however, I’d rather a more “minimal” shoe when training in this regard. I think for most this shoe can work with this style of training, but it does feel a bit heavy at times.
Day-to-Day and Shorter Runs
On a day-to-day basis, I love this model. It looks great and I can rock it pretty much anywhere with most bottoms without getting the question, “Why did you wear training shoes out?” From an aesthetics and casual wear point of view, I really like the Reebok Nano X Unknown.
When it comes to shorter runs, I’m not a huge fan of this model. Personally, I don’t like running at all in high-tops, and in this respect, it’s not just about the Reebok Nano X Unknown. I don’t like having my ankle restricted whatsoever when performing most cardiovascular training styles.
Sizing and Fit
If you’ve ever worn a Reebok Nano model before, then opt for the same size that you’ve worn before. If you haven’t, then going to true-to-size will be a good move in this model. The toe box is fairly accommodating so I think most athletes and lifters can rock their normal size without much worry of the model not fitting.
Price
When the Reebok Nano X Uknown came out, it was priced around $150 USD and some sites still have them for this price. Fortunately, the price has dropped slightly on Reebok and you can grab a pair for $140 USD at the moment, assuming you can find your size.
Construction Details
Other than the reworked upper, the Reebok Nano X Unknown is very similar to the Nano X. If you want a full breakdown of the construction for this model, then check out the video above and skip to 6:48.
Below, I’ve provided the Nano X Unknown’s tech specs that Reebok has provided on their site.
- Textile upper
- EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning
- Rubber outsole provides traction and durability
Is the Reebok Nano X Unkown Worth It?
I think if you are someone who wants a pair of casual cross-training shoes for daily wear and maybe getting a workout in, then the Reebok Nano X Unknowns could be worth it.
They’re not the best in class at any one thing and are more about aesthetics than true performance, in my opinion.
Christopher
Thank you for the review. I getting my own this week. Let see how it feel.