Reebok Nano X1 FRONING Review | The Best Rich Froning Shoe Yet?

The Reebok Nano X1 Froning is the latest signature Reebok cross-training shoe from CrossFit legend Rich Froning. This model features a blend of core Reebok Nano X1 construction features with Rich Froning’s additions and branding. Compared to the other Nano iterations, this model is by far the most unique yet.

To date, my favorite iteration of this model has been the outdoor-focused Adventure, but I have to say, the Reebok Nano X1 Froning is starting to take the lead. Each shoe has its own lists of pros and cons and the Reebok Nano X1 Froning is certainly interesting and worth checking out if you’re considering the Reebok Nano X1.

Who Should Buy the Reebok Nano X1 Froning?

The Reebok Nano X1 Froning is a solid shoe for the avid CrossFitter that loves the Rich Froning branding and ideology. This model features a wide toe box for promoting full toe splay and a reworked lacing system to provide additional mid-foot security.

In addition, this model features a comfortable bootie design with a textile upper for durability. If you plan to lift heavy and train hard in this model and prioritize comfort with your cross-training shoes, then I think the Reebok Nano X1 Froning is a good shoe for you.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Pros

From my workouts and general wear testing, I’ve found three major pros to really like about the Reebok Nano X1 Froning.

1. Reworked Bootie Construction
2. Wide Toe Box
3. Good Versatile Training Option

The first major pro is the overall reworked bootie construction. Compared to the other Reebok Nano X1 models, the X1 Froning has pretty much given a facelift and the entirety of the upper and skeleton of the shoe are new. I personally enjoy bootie-style shoes and this model’s overall fit is pretty great across the board.

On top of the fit being fairly awesome, I also really like the comfort of this model and it’s a good shoe for longer sessions. The textile upper and more elastic-style mid-foot and boot construction blend really well together.

The second pro is the toe box in this model. If you have a wider foot or want as much toe box room as you can get, the Reebok Nano X1 Froning is a good model for you. There’s adequate room on both the medial and lateral sides of the forefoot in this shoe for promoting toe splay for lifting and agility-focused sessions.

The final aspect that I like is that this model walks a good line between stable and versatile. It’s stable enough to lift in and I’ve worked over 400 lbs in this model with limited issues and it’s responsive enough for plyometrics, HIIT, and other bounding activities.

If you’re looking for an “all-in-one” style of cross-training shoe, I think the Reebok Nano X1 Froning is a good bet. If you’re a Rich Froning fan, too, then it’s this model is a win-win.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Cons

Despite enjoying the Reebok Nano X1 Froning as a whole, there are three potential cons that I think are worth considering for this model.

1. Higher Price Point
2. Long-Term Durability
3. A Tad Clonky for Runs

The first drawback is the price point. This model has a price of $150.00 USD, which isn’t the biggest deal if you’re used to getting signature cross-training shoe models. Personally, I think the price point is high, but at the same time, I do see and respect the signature nature of this model.

Another drawback to this model that I’m concerned with is the overall long-term durability of this shoe’s upper and mid-foot construction. I love the bootie-style design, but I’m curious if the more elastic material will stand the test of time with hard training sessions.

Since the material through the mid-foot and boot stretches, I’m curious if it will hold true to its initial form and security over months of wear. It’s still a bit early to make that call, however, it’s definitely something I’m keeping an eye on throughout my wear testing and will update this review accordingly.

The last niche drawback is the clunky nature of the forefoot. The slightly wider toe box is awesome for lifting, but if you do have a more narrow foot, then I could see this extra room giving this shoe a clunky feeling when running. It’s not the biggest deal for performance, however, it is something I noticed as I have more of a neutral foot width.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Performance

To break down the Reebok Nano X1 Froning’s performance, I’m going to discuss how this does in a variety of settings below.

Lifting

In lifting settings, the Reebok Nano X1 Froning honestly feels super similar to the other Nano X1 iterations. The Floatride Energy foam midsole does an okay job at providing stability for the recreational lifter and CrossFitter. I’ve trained up to 505 lbs in this model and it did a fair job at accommodating my needs.

The wider toe box is a nice feature in this model especially when it comes to catching cleans and gripping the floor in lower body movements. The bootie-style design also feels comfortable and supportive as a whole which is nice for adding to the accommodation of versatile-style lifting settings.

Agility, Plyometrics, and HIIT

For agility, plyometrics, and HIIT, I really like this model. I enjoy the outsole and midsole construction that makes up the Reebok Nano X1’s core build and it does a good job in a variety of more athletic and versatile-style training settings. The forefoot is responsive for plyometrics and things like jump rope, which is a huge perk for functional fitness athletes.

On top of the midsole and outsole construction, the Nano X1 Froning’s bootie-style construction provides this model with a comfortable and athlete-style fit. The reworked mid-foot lacing system is also interesting for providing security in these styles of activities and this model doesn’t really loosen up during training sessions which was a concern I initially had.

Shorter Runs

I like this shoe for shorter runs, but the wider toe box does worry me for those who have narrow feet. I think they may feel a little “boat-like” if you’re swimming in the toe and doing shorter runs. For example, you don’t really want to be sliding around in the toe of any shoe if you’re running.

For runs up to 3-5 miles, I think this model will work without feeling super uncomfortable. This model features a 7mm heel-to-toe drop and with the Floatride Energy foam midsole, you do get a lot out of this shoe in regard to ground strike and energy return.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Sizing

In the Reebok Nano X1 Froning, you should be safe going true-to-size. The length is fairly true and is a tiny bit long compared to something like the Nano X1 Adventure, but not long enough to size down for most athletes and lifters.

The wider toe box is also nice for working with athletes and lifters with wider feet without having to size up or down to accommodate for their anatomy.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Price

For a new pair of the Reebok Nano X1 Froning shoes, you can expect to pay $150.00 USD. This is more expensive than the other Reebok Nano X1 models, but that’s pretty standard for signature models.

If you’ve ever worn Froning models before or plan to buy these and keep them in good shape, then the price point is likely worth it for you.

Construction Details

The Reebok Nano X1 Froning has a few core construction details that are present in the normal Nano X1 and some proprietary features that are new.

Below, are the most essential construction details that are worth noting in the Reebok Nano X1 Froning.

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
• Floatride Energy Foam Midsole
• Full Rubber Lug Outsole
• Textile Upper Construction
• Bootie-Style Build
• Mid-Foot Elastic Strap
• Drawstring Lacing System
• Additional Heel Clip

Overall, I like the changes in the Reebok Nano X1 Froning and think they give this model a unique and interesting fit.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Vs Reebok Nano X1 Adventure

The reason I wanted to compare the Nano X1 Froning and Nano X1 Adventure is that they’re both really awesome models with unique features. The Nano X1 Adventure’s core construction differences include a thicker lug-patterned outsole, Flexweave upper construction, and an additional tongue loop to prevent sliding.

The Nano X1 Froning has a textile upper, bootie-style design, and a re-worked lacing system which gives it a more sock-like feeling. Both models are great, but I’d suggest going for the Adventure if you’re training outside more often, and if you’re more gym-focused and a Froning fan, then the X1 Froning would obviously be the better call in this context.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning Vs Reebok Nano X1

The Reebok Nano X1 and Reebok Nano X1 Froning also have their fair share of differences. To be honest, out of all of the Reebok Nano X1 iterations, I actually think the core model is the weakest shoe in regard to overall performance and construction.

The normal Reebok Nano X1 has a mesh upper, a tongue that slides at times, and a boot that can be a little finicky to break in. It’s a good shoe, but there are other Nano X1 iterations that outperform it and cost the same or just a little bit more.

The Reebok Nano X1 Froning is a superior call compared to the Nano X1 if you plan to only these shoes for functional fitness-focused workouts. The Froning’s reworked construction features excel in the gym and give this model a nice signature and proprietary fit and feel.

If you’re not interested in the Nano X1 Froning, but like the Nano X1 model line, then I’d suggest looking into the Grit or Adventure.

Reebok Nano X1 Froning FAQs

What is the heel-to-toe drop in the Reebok Nano X1 Froning?

The Reebok Nano X1 Froning features a 7mm heel-to-toe drop which is consistent with other Reebok Nano X1 models.

How do you tuck the laces in the Reebok Nano X1 Froning?

When you tighten the drawstring for the Nano X1 Froning, you’ll then want to tuck the cord under the mid-foot elastic strap which will provide more security for the lacing system when working out. See the image below!

Takeaway Thoughts

Across the board, I think this might be the best Reebok Froning shoe to date. The Reebok Nano X1 Froning provides a nice blend of security and versatility across the board and has an awesome aesthetic to it.

If you have any questions on this model, drop a comment below or reach out to me via Instagram (@jake_boly)!