Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Review | Good Training Shoe for Outdoor Workouts?

The Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is a training shoe built for a very specific audience. This training shoe aims to bridge the gap between outdoor-focused training shoes and gym-focused training shoes.

As a fan of the original X2 and the Nano X1 Adventure, I was excited to put the Nano X2 Adventure to the test. After multiple hikes, lifts, and casual trail runs, I’ve come to enjoy the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure.

This model features multiple construction updates that should boost its long-term durability, and it’s definitely an interesting training shoe. I do have some issues with this shoe, though, and I’ll discuss those in-depth below. 

Who Should Invest In the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure?

The Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is a really interesting training shoe. It aims to tackle the very specific niche and ask for training for those who want a training shoe that they can also wear outdoor for various activities.

I think if you’re someone who likes training shoes that you can work out in, then wear for a casual hike or trail run, the Reebok Nano X2 can be a good option to explore.

Other training shoes will typically fall short when it comes to outdoor activities due to their outsoles lacking adequate tread and their upper lacking durability. The Nano X2 Adventure features a nylon ripstop upper for durability and rubber lugs on the outsole for traction.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and want a hybrid training shoe for gym work, outdoor workouts, and the casual hike or short trail run, the Nano X2 Adventure can be a really good option to explore.

Conversely, if you’re wanting a training shoe for more serious strength work or for CrossFit specifically, I’m not the biggest fan of this shoe for those contexts. I also don’t think this shoe will be the best pick for athletes with high arches, but more on that below.

Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Pros

Over the course of my training, hiking, and testing of the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, I’ve found multiple pros to like about this model.

1. Tackles An Interesting Niche and Training Ask
2. Ripstop and Synthetic Upper Feel Durable
3. Good for Casual Hikes and Short Trail Runs

The first thing to like about the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is that it’s a cool shoe for tackling a very specific training shoe ask. Will this shoe be for everyone? No. However, if you do align with the shoe’s construction intent, then I think you’ll enjoy them.

For example, if you’re looking for a shoe that you can train in, hike in, and do some versatile training with, then the Nano X2 Adventure is worth looking into. As a personal anecdote, there are multiple days where I’ll go train and then take the dogs out for a hike.

I live in Denver, so there are multiple occasions where my daily activities turn into outdoor-focused activities. This shoe is nice because I can beat them up and know that their construction isn’t going to break down too quickly like other training shoes.

Another thing to like about the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is that the upper seems pretty durable. This model features a nylon ripstop upper that has faired well on most of my hikes, where I’ve had the upper drag on rocks and wood.

I also like that there are reflective components on this shoe, so you get a little more visibility out of them during evening sessions and walks. I’ve noticed this feature now twice during the evening when I’ve been walking the dogs.

The final thing to like about the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, and I alluded to this above in my first pro, but the Nano X2 Adventure can hold its own for hiking and light trail running. I’ve hiked up to six miles in this shoe and have used it for trail runs that are about 5k in distance.

For most casual terrains, the Nano X2 Adventure excels. The lugs on the outsole grip pretty well, and I haven’t too many issues with slip and this model when using it for light to moderate terrains.

Now, it’s worth noting that the Nano X2 Adventure is not going to be your best shoe for technical terrain or trails that have loose terrain and a lot of descents and ascents. In this context, I did have a little slip with this shoe, but again, it’s not a “true” trail shoe for technical terrain.

Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Cons

I’ve enjoyed working out, hiking, and wearing the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for the most part. However, I have found a few cons to note with this shoe.

1. Lacing System Can Be Uncomfortable At Times
2. Boot Construction Isn’t the Best for Gravel Trails
3. Not Your Best Shoe for Serious Barbell Lifting and CrossFit

My first issue and drawback with the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is its lacing system. This model has a reworked lacing system that features two plastic eyelets at the midfoot. I like the idea behind this construction feature; in theory, however, I found it to be uncomfortable.

The issue that I’ve had with this model’s lacing system is that when you tighten this model a lot, its lack of flexibility can cause your feet to cramp a little if you have normal or higher arches.

Basically, what I’ve found is that the top eyelet’s shoelaces get pushed down to where the top plastic eyelets cross at the top of the midfoot. This then creates a super rigid feel with the shoe laces really driving into the top of the foot when I move from sharp dorsiflexion to plantarflexion (dorsiflexion = flexing your toes/ankle to the sky, plantarflexion = flexing the foot down).

Note, this might just be my foot anatomy, but I could see this lack of flexibility through the midfoot due to this lacing feature potentially being an issue for other lifters and athletes that have fairly pronounced arches.

Another drawback with the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is that the reworked boot construction doesn’t do the best job of keeping loose debris out when on the trail. Essentially, when you heel strike in this model, space opens up on the side of the boot.

This space then allows in loose debris on different trails. I had this happen when tackling a few trail runs where I was bombing down hills with a bit of gravel. While rare, I had a few occasions where small rocks kicked into my shoes.

The final drawback to the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is that while it does a pretty good job tackling various activities to an okay degree, it doesn’t really excel in any one niche of training. 

For example, if you want a training shoe for heavy barbell training or serious CrossFit, this model will fall short. When deadlifting 500 lbs for reps in this model, I wasn’t a fan of the midsole and its stability, and this model will likely have similar durability issues to the Nano X2 for rope climbing in the context of CrossFit.

Performance

To break down the performance of the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, I’m going to discuss how this shoe performs in various training contexts. I’ll discuss this model’s performance for lifting, CrossFit, versatile training, outdoor workouts, hiking/trail running, and daily wear.

This way, if you’re considering the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, you can cross-reference if this shoe will properly align with your training needs and wants.

Testing the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for Lifting and CrossFit

In the context of lifting, the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure does an okay job. I think this shoe will be best for those that want a model for more recreational strength training and lifting, as opposed to someone more focused on the barbell lifts.

For example, I wasn’t the biggest fan of this shoe for deadlifting once I got passed 455 lbs. I noticed that the forefoot’s drop-in midsole started to compress a bit during my set with 500 lbs, and I had to shift my deadlift mechanics slightly during my heavier pulls to accommodate this.

In squats, I also wasn’t the biggest fan of this shoe’s toe box construction. This shoe has a fair amount of toe spring, and I found it difficult at times to ground the toes when squatting I think this is due to the upper being thicker and the increased outsole lugs.

For accessories and leg day-focused exercises like lunges and leg press, this shoe did a fine job, and again, if you’re using this shoe for more recreational strength work, they should work just fine.

For CrossFit, I’d say probably pass on this shoe for most athletes. If you’re a beginner and you regularly do outdoor workouts and CrossFit workouts on a weekly basis, I could see this model being okay for you, but for more weathered CrossFit athletes, I think this shoe falls short.

This model has the same midsole and outsole construction as the Reebok Nano X1 and Reebok Nano X2. This is problematic because we’ve seen multiple occasions where the sole on the midfoot starts to break j-wrap rope climbing.

For this reason, I’m not super stoked for recommending the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for CrossFit, especially due to its price point. There are better CrossFit shoes that cost less that will outperform the Nano X2 Adventure.

Testing the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for Versatile Training

For versatile training, I thought the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure did a pretty good job. There are three things that I like about the Nano X2 Adventure and what dislike that I have about this model.

The first aspect that I like is the Floatride Energy foam midsole construction. While I’m not the biggest fan of this feature for lifting, I like it for HIIT workouts and athletic-style training. In this context, I thought this shoe’s midsole did a pretty good job.

Now, the Nano X2 Adventure wouldn’t be my go-to for more serious plyometrics, but for more routine plyometric training, it should suffice for most. The second aspect to like is the full rubber outsole with the rubber lugs.

I like this construction feature for versatile training because it adds to this shoe’s grip on different surfaces. If you’re outdoors on grass or training on turf, you should get a nice level of grip in this model for different types of training.

The third thing that I like about the Nano X2 Adventure is its lateral and medial TPU heel clip. This clip adds a nice level of structure to this shoe, and if you like having more midfoot and ankle support, then you should enjoy this feature.

My dislike with this shoe is the lacing system. When training with more explosive exercises and tightening this model for additional security, the laces felt pretty restrictive, and I wasn’t a fan of how they provided midfoot support.

Testing the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for Hiking, Outdoor Workouts, and Daily Wear

For hiking, light trail runs, outdoor workouts, and daily wear, I like the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure. I like that this shoe can serve as a hybrid for hiking and very casual trail runs due to its nylon ripstop upper and rubber lug outsole.

If you’re hiking on dirt trails or trails with larger rocks, then you should get a lot out of this model’s grip. For easier terrain, this model does a good job, and it’s pretty comfortable. Thus far, I’ve worn this model for hikes up to six miles and have had no issues with this shoe’s comfort.

If you want to trail run in this shoe, then I’d suggest keeping your runs shorter than three miles and picking trails with pretty easy terrain. I’ve used these shoes for a few of my favorite trails in Golden, Colorado, and my only issue with them has been on hills with loose terrain.

For outdoor workouts and daily wear, this Nano X2 Adventure should do a pretty good job across the board. In most outdoor-focused sessions, you’ll likely not be training super heavy, so the stability caveat I have with this shoe when lifting will likely be a non-issue for most.

On a daily wear basis, this shoe should feel pretty comfortable, and its durability should work well for most. The reflective components on this shoe are also nice for evening and nighttime walks, whether it be for steps or walking dogs.

Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Vs Reebok Nano X1 Adventure

If you like the idea of hybrid training shoes that work for outdoor and gym sessions, then you’re likely considering the Reebok Nano X1 Adventure and Reebok Nano X2 Adventure.

Both of these models do a pretty good job with hybrid training. Some of the similarities that exist between these models include the ripstop in their uppers, Floatride Energy foam midsole, and lug rubber outsole.

Outside of these components, the Nano X1 Adventure and Nano X2 Adventure are pretty different from one another. One of the first differences is the reworked TPU clips on each model.

In the Nano X2 Adventure, these clips are a little more rigid and orient more from the midfoot as opposed to primarily covering the heel like in the Nano X1 Adventure.

Another difference is the outsole constructions. In the Reebok Nano X1 Adventure, you can see the Floatride Energy foam midsole at the forefoot whereas the Nano X2 Adventure’s outsole is fully rubber with no areas of the exposed midsole. I haven’t had durability issues yet with either model despite the X1’s exposed foam.

The upper constructions are also different between these shoes. The Nano X2 Adventure’s nylon ripstop upper has synthetic layers around the toe box and has a heavier feel compared to the Nano X1’s ripstop.

The final difference that I think is worth noting is the lacing systems used in both shoes. The Nano X2 Adventure’s lacing system now features two plastic eyelets that can, once again, feel pretty uncomfortable at times. I never had an issue with this with the Nano X1 Adventure’s lacing system.

Winner: Both are good for their niche, but if I had to pick one shoe, I would take the Reebok Nano X1 Adventure. It almost feels as though the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure is over-engineered at times, and this model weighs 13.25 oz compared to the 12.05 oz for my Nano X1 Adventure (both size 10).

Don’t get me wrong, the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure isn’t a bad shoe by any means, but I’m going with the older model for this comparison. Plus, the Nano X1 Adventure has some good deals at the moment. 

Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Sizing

In the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, I think most lifters and athletes should be safe going true to size in this model. The Nano X2 Adventure’s upper is snugger than the Nano X2, which gives it a tighter fit and feel.

The length runs true, and the width is what I would describe as neutral. Since the upper material is a bit more rigid than the Nano X2, I actually feel like the Nano X2 Adventure feels like it has less width.

However, the sole constructions are pretty much identical in the Nano X2 and Nano X2 Adventure, so I know this is only due to the upper difference and not the sole being physically narrower. I think this is a good thing for those who felt the Nano X2 ran a little big.

• Reebok Nano X2 Adventure Sizing Thoughts: Go true to size.

If you have additional sizing and fit questions about the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, drop a comment below.

Price Breakdown

For the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, you can expect to pay $140 USD. The price point for the Nano X2 Adventure has increased by $5 USD for this iteration, similar to the core Reebok Nano X2 model.

I think this price can make sense for athletes and lifters with a heavy bias toward outdoor training. If you’re regularly mixing in outdoor sessions at the park, training at the gym, and also want a capable shoe for things like hiking, then this price could be justified.

Since this is such a niche shoe, I think a slightly higher price is warranted for the added durability and traction you get with this model. If you’re worried about outdoor sessions, then honestly, you’re not missing much by passing on this shoe.

For example, if you just want a training shoe for some walking, working out at the gym, and maybe some light running, there are comparable models to explore with more budget-friendly prices.

Construction Details

There have been a lot of upgrades to the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure compared to the Nano X1 iteration. Below are some of the important construction details to know about this shoe.

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
• Weight: 13.25 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Nylon Ripstop Upper
• Floatride Energy Foam Midsole
• Full Rubber Lug Outsole
• Synthetic Upper Overlays
• TPU Heel Clip
• 6 Eyelets With a 7th for Lace-Lock

If you have additional questions about the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure’s construction, drop a comment below.

Takeaway Thoughts

The Reebok Nano X2 Adventure aims to tackle a really interesting training shoe niche. If you prioritize outdoor workouts on a regular basis and want a pair of training shoes that can do a little bit of everything, they can be a good choice.

I’ve enjoyed wearing the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure for some of my light hikes and trail runs where the terrain isn’t too technical. Additionally, I’ve liked wearing the Nano X2 Adventure for some of my casual training.

I do think there are areas on this shoe that could be improved. For example, I think the boot construction could be a little better the lacing system is somewhat uncomfortable at times.

If you have additional questions on the Reebok Nano X2 Adventure, drop a comment down below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).