Reebok Nano X2 Review (2023 Update) | Good All-Around Trainer?

The Reebok Nano X2 is the twelfth shoe to debut in Reebok’s popular Nano cross-training shoe line. There has been a lot of excitement for the Reebok Nano X2 and the changes that have been implemented for this model.

I was super excited to put the Reebok Nano X2 to the test and see if it had been improved from the prior Nano iteration. Across the board, the Reebok Nano X2 has been a strong cross-training shoe for a variety of training contexts.

It seems like Reebok listened to the feedback about the Nano X1 and tweaked this model to be an overall better shoe. However, there are still a couple of cons to note about the Reebok Nano X2, which I’ll discuss in detail below.

Who Should Invest In the Reebok Nano X2?

The Reebok Nano X2 is a good all-around general trainer. This model will work for a variety of contexts and compared to the Reebok Nano X1 the Nano X2 has a better upper construction that also looks better for daily wear.

If you’re someone that likes Reebok and wants a shoe for recreational lifting, some athletic-focused training, very casual CrossFit sessions, HIIT workouts, short runs, and even daily wear, then the Reebok Nano X2 is a good model to look into. It performs fairly well in all of these contexts.

Plus, this model’s updated upper construction provides a good amount of durability and the slightly more rigid heel clips help to provide a bit more midfoot support compared to the Reebok Nano X1.

That being said, I like the Reebok Nano X2 and think it’s a good hybrid general training shoe, and I think this model is a step in the right direction for the Reebok Nano cross-training shoe line. Also, I would suggest keeping in mind that this shoe is still not going to be the best for serious CrossFit sessions. 

Reebok Nano X2 Pros

Over the course of my testing and review process, I’ve found multiple aspects to like about the Reebok Nano X2.

1. Strong All-Around Training Shoe
2. Reworked Upper Looks Good and Is Fairly Durable
3. Slight Increase In Midfoot Support
4. Reworked Boot Limits Overall Achilles Rub

The first aspect to like about the Reebok Nano X2 is that it’s a good generalist training shoe. Essentially, this model can work well in a variety of training settings and it has a nice blend of stability and versatility.

For heavy training, this model was stable enough to accommodate trap bar deadlifts up to 505 lbs pretty easily and its Floatride Energy Foam midsole provides a nice level of versatility and “bounce” for plyometrics like box jumps, double-unders, and skater hops.

Additionally, this model is a pretty good performer for short runs that are under 3-miles in length, which is an area where other more stable cross-training shoes fall short. If you want this shoe for a little bit of everything, including things like short runs, classes, and HIIT workouts, then you should enjoy this model.

Note that the outsole and midsole construction of the Reebok Nano X2 remain relatively unchanged from the Reebok Nano X1. If you weren’t a fan of these details and changes in the Nano X1 compared to the Reebok Nano X, then you’ll likely not enjoy the Nano X2’s performance, fit, and feel.

The second aspect to like about the Nano X2 is its reworked upper construction. This model features a Flexweave Knit throughout its forefoot and midfoot and also has a Flexweave Woven Textile upper through the upper midfoot and heel.

The strategic layering on this upper feels durable and provides a nice locked-down feeling when training. I think this is a welcomed change, especially when comparing the Nano X2’s upper to the Flexweave Knit used in the original Nano X1 model.

Another subtle pro that the Reebok Nano X2 has is its supportive heel clip. The Nano X2 has a similar heel clip construction to the Nano X1, however, the material used in the Nano X2 is a bit more rigid and supportive.

This reworked heel clip material and subtle design change increase this model’s midfoot support. If you’re someone who likes having more medial midfoot support, then this will likely be a welcomed construction change for you.

My final aspect to like about the Reebok Nano X2 is that the boot and heel have been reworked. In the Reebok Nano X1, Achilles rub was pretty common in a variety of lifters and athletes due to its higher boot construction.

The Reebok Nano X2 has received a reworked boot and some additional internal padding in the heel counter. While Achilles rub still may be an issue for some, I think the vast majority of consumers won’t run into this issue at all or to the same extent as the Nano X1.

Reebok Nano X2 Cons

As a whole, I like the Reebok Nano X2 for general training, however, there are a couple of cons to note about this shoe.

1. Slightly Higher Price Point
2. Still May Lack Features for Niche Performance Settings
3. Sole Is “Meh” for Rope Climbs

The first drawback to the Reebok Nano X2 is that it may not be the most cost-efficient model for some consumers. This model has received a slight price increase compared to prior Reebok Nano cross-training shoes and has a price of $135 USD.

In the grand scheme of things, this price increase isn’t the biggest deal and I do think it’s worth it for this shoe, especially if you’re on the fence between the Nano X2 and Nano X1.

However, with the Nano X2’s release, both the Nano X1 and Nano X have received pretty large discounts, so if you want to save a little money or go the super cost-efficient route, then both of these models can be worth looking into.

Another potential drawback to the Reebok Nano X2 is that it can lack for some lifters and athletes that need shoes for very specific performance niches. Note, this con is hyper-specific and it won’t be an issue for most lifters and athletes, in my opinion.

For context, the Nano X2 is a really good general training shoe, but for serious CrossFit and heavy barbell training, they may fall a little short for these contexts.

Additionally, the Floatride Energy Foam midsole provides a good amount of stability, however, it does fall short compared to other highly stable cross-training shoes. Plus, the stack height of this model isn’t the lowest so that could be a turnoff for you if you’re super worried about getting as close to the ground as possible.

In the context of CrossFit and rope climbing, the sole isn’t the best for durability when j-wrap rope climbing and you may run into issues if you’re putting a ton of stress into this model. I would suggest not rope climbing in the Nano X2 at all.

Performance

To discuss the performance of the Reebok Nano X2, I’m going to break this section into a few different parts. I’ll talk about how this shoe performs for lifting, CrossFit, versatile training, running, and casual wear.

This can hopefully then help you contextualize if the Reebok Nano X2 is a good cross-training shoe for the context of your training wants and needs.

Reebok Nano X2 for CrossFit and Lifting

In the context of lifting, the Reebok Nano X2 delivers a fairly strong performance. The full rubber outsole on this shoe provides a nice amount of traction on different surfaces and when lifting on turf, rubber gym floors, and wooden platforms I didn’t have traction issues at all.

The Floatride Energy Foam midsole also does a pretty good job at delivering a stable base to lift on. As mentioned above, when training up to 505 lbs in this shoe I didn’t have any glaring compression issues.

I think for most recreational lifters the stability in this model will be solid overall. For squats, I worked up to 405 lbs and the shoes were also pretty solid across the board.

You do notice a little compression in the Floatride Energy Foam midsole when walking out the weight, but when physically squatting these shoes felt fine. 

I also enjoy the width of this shoe in the context of splaying the toes. This model delivers a decently wide toe box for accommodating toe splay and I think most lifters with narrow, neural, and slightly wider foot widths will enjoy this aspect of the Nano X2.

For CrossFit, this model does an okay job at matching the demands that you’ll encounter in casual CrossFit workouts sans rope climbs. This model is comfortable for most lifting demands and it gives you a nice “pop” when tackling box jumps and double-unders.

In the context of durability and CrossFit, the upper breathes pretty well and is fairly durable for abrasion resistance from things like burpees, but the sole’s durability falls short for J-wrap rope climbing.

When I rope climb I S-Wrap/lock and this strategy works in this model, and I haven’t run into durability issues yet. However, there are some athletes in the TF2 community that mentioned their Nano X2 sole had durability issues when J-wrapping their rope climbs. In my opinion, they should scrap the ROPEPRO tech in this shoe because I feel like it just doesn’t get the job done.

If you’re looking into the Nano X2 for serious CrossFit, then I could see them letting you down in this context. They’re definitely better for more casual CrossFit WODs since their construction isn’t as hyper-CrossFit-focused as previous Reebok Nano models.

Reebok Nano X2 for HIIT Workouts, Plyometrics, and Versatile Training

For things like HIIT workouts, classes, plyometrics, and versatile training, I like the Reebok Nano X2 performs. I thought the Reebok Nano X1 also did a good job in this training context, and the Nano X2 is no different and it’s actually slightly better for two key reasons.

Firstly, the Nano X2’s reworked boot makes this shoe a lot more comfortable for plyometrics and HIIT training. When jumping and doing other bounding exercises, I didn’t have any glaring issues with the boot getting uncomfortable and I like how it locks down the foot.

Secondly, the blend of the Floatride Energy Foam midsole and full rubber outsole walks a good line between giving enough stability to promote balance while also delivering a responsive enough fit and feel for high-intensity sessions.

I think many will enjoy the overall performance of the Reebok Nano X2 for more versatile training sessions. This is also why I think they’re a pretty good all-arounder when it comes to tackling different training asks.

Reebok Nano X2 for Running and Daily Wear

Similar to the Reebok Nano X1, I think the Reebok Nano X2 can be a pretty good performer for short runs. For example, if you like to tackle 1-3 miles of running pre or post-workout and don’t want to change your shoes to do so, then this is a good model to explore.

The midsole provides just enough cushion to make this model pretty comfortable for shorter runs and the outsole grips pavement and treadmills pretty well.

On a daily wear basis, I like this model and think they have an overall strong appearance. The reworked Flexweave Knit and Flexweave Textile Woven Upper look good and this model breathes fairly well.

Plus, I like that this shoe has a bit more medial midfoot support. If you want this model for standing all day or walking longer durations, then I think you’ll enjoy how this shoe performs.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs Reebok Nano X1

If you’re debating between the Reebok Nano X1 and Reebok Nano X2, I’m going to cover some of their similarities and key differences. I’ll also share my thoughts on each shoe’s performance so this can hopefully help you decide which shoe is best for your needs.

There are three big similarities between the Reebok Nano X1 and Reebok Nano X2. The first similarity is their midsole constructions. Both of these models feature Reebok’s signature Floatride Energy Foam so their overall stability is pretty comparable.

The only slight difference between both of these shoes’ stability is that Nano X2 has a little less toe spring which is a nice subtle benefit of this model. Another similarity is each shoe’s outsole construction, as both of these shoes feature similar full rubber outsoles with a lug pattern tread.

The final similarity to note is that the heel-to-toe drop in the Reebok Nano X1 and Reebok Nano X2 remains unchanged. The Reebok Nano X2 and Reebok Nano X1 both have a 7mm heel-to-toe drop.

When it comes to differences, the main construction difference that really differentiates these shoes is their upper construction. The Reebok Nano X1 featured a Flexweave Knit upper that extended over the entirety of the shoe.

The Reebok Nano X2 also features a Flexweave Knit, but it’s a little thicker in nature and there is also strategic upper layering in this model to increase its overall durability. The upper in the Nano X2 looks better and more athletic compared to the Nano X1.

Another big difference is the boot construction of these shoes. The Reebok Nano X2 has a reworked boot that has been brought down in height and it features a little more internal padding to prevent the dreaded Achilles rub that came along with the Reebok Nano X1.

The Winner: If you’re on the fence between these two shoes, I’d suggest going for the Reebok Nano X2.

Both models have similar levels of stability and versatility, but the Nano X2’s upper takes the edge for durability and aesthetics which help make it more well-rounded.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs Reebok Nano X2 Froning

Another popular Reebok Nano X2 showdown includes the Reebok Nano X2 versus the Reebok Nano X2 Froning. The Nano X2 Froning is the model inspired by and designed in collaboration with CrossFit legend, Rich Froning.

The Nano X2 Froning features an updated open-mesh upper construction which gives this shoe the lightest weight of all of the Reebok Nano X2 iterations. For context, the Nano X2 Froning weighs 10.4 oz (for my size 10 model) whereas the Nano X2 weighs 11.9 oz.

Regarding midsole and outsole constructions, the Nano X2 and Nano X2 Froning remain unchanged from one another. In the gym, you’ll get an equal amount of stability and responsiveness out of both shoes.

While I like the novelty of the Nano X2 Froning, I don’t think it’s worth investing in if you’re not interested in the Rich Froning aspect of them. In the context of performance, this model is still plagued with the same rope climbing durability issue as the Nano X2.

Honestly, I really hope Reebok fixes this issue when they roll out the Reebok Nano X3. To say the ROPEPRO+ outsole gives you additional bite is a bit misleading since breakdown is pretty common with this feature when j-wrap climbing.

On top of this issue, the upper construction in the Nano X2 Froning can be hit or miss. I like it for its breathability and lightweight construction, however, it’s not my favorite regarding security for certain workouts.

For example, when doing lateral plyometrics, I was experiencing a bit of foot overhang in the Reebok Nano X2 Froning and this was never really a noticeable issue with the Reebok Nano X2’s forefoot knit upper.

Winner: Reebok Nano X2. The Reebok Nano X2 Froning is a cool shoe and if you like the Nano Froning models, then you’ll likely enjoy this shoe. For everyone else, though, I don’t think this shoe is worth the additional $15 USD.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs Reebok Nano 6000

The Reebok Nano 6000 and Reebok Nano X2 have a lot in common, but they also have a couple of key differences to note between them.

Below, I’m going to cover some of the key differences and similarities between the Reebok Nano X2 versus the Reebok Nano 6000.

In regard to similarities, the Reebok Nano 6000 and Reebok Nano X2 are virtually similar in regard to their core midsole, outsole, heel clip, and last constructions.

Essentially, both models have a similar level of versatility and stability in the gym. If you’re in between each, then I wouldn’t stress how each model will perform under the bar and when cross-training because they’ll be virtually identical.

When it comes to differences the main construction change between these models is the upper construction in each model’s forefoot and midfoot. The Reebok Nano 6000 takes its upper inspiration and design from Reebok Heritage shoes.

As opposed to the Flexweave Knit used in the Reebok Nano X2’s toe box, the Nano 6000 features a Flexweave Textile construction. The toe box in the Nano 6000 also features an additional overlay that covers the entirety of the toe.

The midfoot styles are both similar while the materials vary with the 6000 featuring a synthetic overlay and the Nano X2 a textile overlay.

Both of these uppers perform similarly in the gym, however, they each deliver a slightly different appearance, energy, and vibe. While it’s a subtle construction change, I do like the Reebok Nano 6000’s reworked forefoot and midfoot upper.

Winner: Both models perform the same in the gym. If you’re in between both of these Nano cross-training shoes, then I’d opt for the model that you like the appearance best since their prices are the same.

I do think the Reebok Nano 6000 can be a slightly better option for daily wear, especially if that’s a primary reason for you investing in that cross-training shoe.

Reebok Nano X2 Sizing

When it comes to sizing in the Reebok Nano X2, narrow and neutral-width feet may want to size down as this shoe can run a little long and feel too spacious for these foot anatomies.

For neutral-width feet, if you like a bit more room at the end of your toe box, then you should be safe going true to size. If you have wide feet, you should be safe going true to size in the Reebok Nano X2.

If you currently wear Reebok Nano X1s or other Reebok cross-training shoes, then I’d suggest going for the same size in the Reebok Nano X2.

• Reebok Nano X2 Sizing Thoughts: Go true to size. If you have a notably narrow foot, then you may want to size down a half size.

If you have additional Reebok Nano X2 questions on their sizing and fit or how they compare to other models, drop a comment below and I can try to help you out accordingly.

Price Breakdown

For the Reebok Nano X2, you can expect to pay $135 USD. This is a $5 USD price increase compared to the Reebok Nano X1 and previous Reebok Nano iterations.

While an increased price point isn’t the greatest thing in the world, I do think the Nano X2 is a strong performer and that the price increase can be justified in this shoe, especially if you’re comparing them to the Nano X1.

The Nano X2’s construction, and more specifically its upper, is a welcomed change and level up from the base Reebok Nano X1 model which costs $130 USD.

Construction Details

If you’re interested in the construction of the Reebok Nano X2, I’ve included some of the biggest callouts for this shoe that influence its durability and performance.

There are some construction similarities in this model compared to the Reebok Nano X1 and a few key differences to note.

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7mm
• Weight: 11.90 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Flexweave Knit Upper
• Floatride Energy Foam Midsole
• Full Rubber Outsole With Lug Pattern
• Plastic Heel Clip for Additional Support
• 6 Eyelets With a 7th for Lace-Locking

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

Takeaway Thoughts

The Reebok Nano X2 delivers a strong performance as being a good general training shoe. This model will work well for most lifting settings, casual CrossFit workouts, and shorter runs.

Compared to the Reebok Nano X1, this model is by far the better shoe and the reworked upper and boot construction are both welcomed and positive changes for the Reebok Nano cross-training shoe line.

Note, that this review, like all of my reviews, will continue to be updated if anything changes with the Reebok Nano X2’s construction, durability, and performance-based on my extended testing and community feedback.

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