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Home » Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer | Which Shoe Is Best for You?

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer | Which Shoe Is Best for You?

I buy and test the products featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training shoes and gear. I may earn commissions on sales made through the links on my site.

If you’re in the market for new cross-training shoes, then you may have considered the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer. These are both popular cross-training shoe picks for lifting, versatile training, and CrossFit.

While all of these shoes excel in their own right, there are subtle differences to consider between the Reebok Nano X2 versus the NOBULL Trainer. For example, each of these shoes fits and performs differently for niche activities.

If you can understand the core differences between the NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2, then you can buy the best cross-training shoe for your specific workout wants and needs.

In this NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 comparison, I’ll cover the core differences that you need to note between all of these shoes.

Doing Pistol Squats and Testing the Reebok Nano X2 for CrossFit

On the market for new cross-training shoes? Make sure you check out my TF2 Cross-Training Shoe Finder. This calculator pairs you with the best shoes for your needs.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer Performance

Since the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer work for a variety of training contexts, I’ll discuss how each performs for lifting and CrossFit, versatile training, short runs, and daily wear below.

Each shoe will excel over the other for certain activities. Hopefully, this Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer performance breakdown can help suggest which shoe might fit your training needs best.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer for Lifting and CrossFit

For lifting, both of these shoes work pretty well and for anyone wanting them for recreational lifting, you should be perfectly fine going with either model. Both shoes have a fair amount of stability and provide good traction for various lifting contexts.

Squatting 405 lbs In the Reebok Nano X2 Lifting Test

Thus far, I’ve deadlifted over 500 lbs in both shoes and have squatted over 400 lbs and enjoyed the level of stability that they’ve provided. I think if you’re training at or below these lifting thresholds, then you can’t go wrong with either model.

As you get more niche and heavier with your strength training, that is where you will start to see a little bit of a difference. The NOBULL Trainer’s medium-density midsole does provide a little more stability than the Nano X2’s Floatride Energy Foam midsole.

Using the NOBULL High Top Trainer for Powerlifting

Rocked these for my first squat of 200kg!

That being said, I think if you’re looking for a shoe primarily for barbell work, accessories, and machine work, you’ll be set with either model, but if you’re constantly moving more weight than the lifting thresholds listed above, go with the NOBULL Trainer.

In the context of general CrossFit, the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer will both perform well in most WODs. I think if you’re a beginner or intermediate with your CrossFit training, then either one of these models will be fine for your needs.

Deadlifting 505 lbs In the Reebok Nano X2 Lifting Test

The Reebok Nano X2 is a little more responsive and comfortable than the NOBULL Trainer for things like box jumps, double-unders, and other WODs where you’ll be doing more dynamic work or adding in shorter runs.

The Reebok Nano X2 also fits a little wider so it may be a better option for those who want more width in their shoe’s forefoot and midfoot, and I’ll cover this in my sizing section below.

Testing the NOBULL Trainer for Lifting

Where the NOBULL Trainer excels for CrossFit is its durability and stability. Compared to the Reebok Nano X2, the NOBULL Trainer will generally fare a lot better for long-term durability, especially when you’re primarily using these shoes for CrossFit.

On that note, one of the downfalls of the Reebok Nano X2 for CrossFit is its durability for j-wrap rope climbs whereas the NOBULL Trainer doesn’t suffer from this issue. Pro-tip, if you invest in the Nano X2 for CrossFit, try to limit their rope climb use.

Testing the NOBULL Trainer for Rope Climbs

Winner: For lifting, both shoes work but the NOBULL Trainer does have a slight edge for stability. In the context of CrossFit, the Nano X2 feels more versatile but lacks the same level of durability that the NOBULL Trainer provides.

NOBULL Trainer

$129

NOBULL Trainers
4.6
Stability
4.7
Versatility
4.4
Durability
4.7

Best For

  • CrossFit-Style Training
  • Lifting
  • Daily Wear
  • Casual Classes and HIIT

Falls Short

  • For Running
  • For Plyometrics and Athletic Training

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer for Versatile Training

For versatile training sessions, there’s a pretty clear winner when it comes to comparing the Reebok Nano X2 versus the NOBULL Trainer. I think if you have a large training bias toward HIIT workouts and athletic-style workouts, then the Nano X2 will fare best.

The Floatride Energy Foam in the Nano X2 gives their forefoot a nice responsive feel and it makes them a viable option for sessions where you’ll be doing more jumping and multi-directional exercises.

Reviewing the Reebok Nano X2 for HIIT Training

I also like the upper construction better in the Nano X2 for versatile training because it provides a little more breathability. There are also TPU clips around the midfoot and heel for additional support when doing lateral exercises.

The NOBULL Trainer can technically work for versatile training but can run a little more stable than the Nano X2 and other dynamic workout shoes. Plus, the SuperFabric upper on the NOBULL can also run pretty warm for versatile training sessions.

Testing the Reebok Nano X2 Stability for HIIT workouts

Winner: The Reebok Nano X2 offers a more dynamic and responsive performance for versatile training. Granted, if your training consists of mostly lifting or CrossFit and you’re only doing a little versatile training each week, either shoe will work.

Reebok Nano X2

Reebok Nano X2
4.4
Stability
4.5
Versatility
4.6
Durability
4.2

Best For

  • Recreational Lifting
  • Athletic-Focused Training
  • Casual CrossFit Sessions
  • Shorter Runs

Falls Short

  • For Cost-Efficiency

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer for Short Runs and Daily Wear

When it comes to doing short runs in the NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2, one model will outperform the other. If you’re regularly programming a couple of miles pre or post-workout, then you’ll want to opt for the Reebok Nano X2.

The Nano X2’s midsole is more forgiving for short runs and it can also work for faster-paced interval runs. If you’re wanting the Reebok Nano X2 for running, I’d suggest capping your mileage to about 3 miles at a time, as it can start to get uncomfortable for long runs.

Testing the Reebok Nano X2 for running

The NOBULL Trainer’s stable construction limits its running performance as a whole and it won’t be your best model for tacking on miles with your workouts. For short runs programmed in WODs that are under 800-meters, both shoes work but the Nano X2 is more comfortable.

For daily wear, I really enjoy the NOBULL Trainer, and on that note, I really enjoy the NOBULL High-Top Trainer for daily wear. The NOBULL Trainers can be great for daily wear due to their simplistic construction and long-term durability.

Testing the NOBULL Trainer for Daily Wear

The SuperFabric upper and outsole construction on the NOBULL Trainer should last you a while if you’re using them for training and daily wear. Plus, I find this material pretty easy to clean which is a subtle and nice feature on inclement weather days.

The Reebok Nano X2 also works for daily wear and it’s one of my go-to training shoes for travel when I only want to bring one or two pairs of training shoes. My only concern about the Nano X2 for daily wear is that it can run into issues on rainier days due to its foam midsole in the forefoot.

Testing the NOBULL Trainer for Walking

Winner: For regularly programmed short runs with your training sessions, go with the Reebok Nano X2. For daily wear, both shoes work with the NOBULL Trainer taking the edge for long-term durability and the Nano X2 taking the comfortable edge.

Reebok Nano X2

Reebok Nano X2

Pros: Versatile, Midfoot Support
Cons: Sole Durability
Size/Fit: Runs Large for Most/Wider Width
Offset: 7mm
Lifting Threshold: ~500 lbs
Mileage Threshold: <3 miles
Price: $
TF2 Rating: 4.4
NOBULL Trainer

NOBULL Trainer

Pros: Stable, Durable
Cons: Running Performance
Size/Fit: True to Size/Neutral Width
Offset: 4mm
Lifting Threshold: ~500 lbs
Mileage Threshold: <3-Miles
Price: $129
TF2 Rating: 4.6

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer Construction

There are a lot of construction differences to note between the Reebok Nano X2 and the NOBULL Trainer. Below, I’m going to break the construction of each shoe into different sections so this section is easier to digest.

It’s important to note that the construction differences between these shoes can have a direct impact on both performance and durability.

Outsole

When it comes to traction and durability, both shoes have well-made outsole constructions for the most part. The NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2 feature full rubber outsoles with slightly different tread patterns despite both being lugs.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Outsole Construction

The Reebok Nano X2 is built with a lug tread pattern that is a little more aggressive while the NOBULL Trainer features circular lugs. I do like the NOBULL Trainer’s outsole tread a little better when it comes to long-term durability due to there being no exposed foam with it.

Midsole

The Reebok Nano X2 features Floatride Energy Foam throughout the entirety of its midsole. This material walks a good line between being stable and responsive for most training sessions. For context, it’s more compressive than the Reebok Nano X’s midsole.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Midsole Construction

The NOBULL Trainer features a medium-density midsole that has a higher level of stability compared to Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam. This material is consistent throughout and it typically does a good job with abrasion resistance.

Upper

The toe box of the Reebok Nano X2 is built with a knit, then there are textile and synthetic layers throughout the midfoot and heel. There’s a plastic TPU wrap that extends from the lateral and medial midfoot to the heel to give this shoe’s boot a little more structure.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Upper Construction

The NOBULL Trainer’s upper is built with a SuperFabric material that is a layered material with protective plates on the outside. This material has a nice level of durability, but it can run a little warmer compared to the Nano X2’s knit and textile upper.

Tongue and Laces

The Reebok Nano X2 features six core eyelets with a seventh for lace-locking and has a mesh tongue with an upper loop for security. Overall, the lace and tongue construction of the Reebok Nano X2 feels pretty secure and the tongue doesn’t move when training.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Tongue and Laces Construction

The NOBULL Trainer has five core eyelets and a thin breathable mesh tongue. When breaking the NOBULL Trainer in, I’d suggest wearing longer socks that cover the entire upper foot to prevent the tongue from causing any form of rub.

Insole, Weight, and Heel-to-Toe Drop

The Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer both have thin removable insoles. If you have custom orthotics or inserts, then I think you’ll be safe with both shoes as their upper volumes are what I would describe as fair or higher compared to training shoes.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Insole Construction

  • NOBULL Trainer Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.7 oz (for my size 10 model), 4mm heel-to-toe drop.
  • Reebok Nano X2 Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop: 11.9 oz (for my size 10 model), 7mm heel-to-toe drop.

If you have additional construction-related questions about the NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2, drop a comment below.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer Sizing

When it comes to sizing the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer, you’ll want to size them slightly differently. For example, the Reebok Nano X2 can run a little long for some athletes and lifters.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Sizing Differences

If you have narrow feet or neutral-width feet and like a snugger fit, size down a half-size in the Nano X2. For those with neutral-width feet that like a bit more room in the toe box and wide feet, go true to size in the Nano X2.

In the NOBULL Trainer, narrow and neutral-width feet should be safe going true to size. If you have wide feet, you’ll want to go up a half size in the NOBULL Trainer.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Sizing Breakdown

  • NOBULL Trainer Sizing Thoughts: Narrow/neutral feet, go true to size. Wide feet, size up a half size.
  • Reebok Nano X2 Sizing Thoughts: Narrow/neutral feet, go down a half-size. Wide feet, go true to size.

NOBULL Trainer Versus Reebok Nano X2 Sizing and Fit

If you have additional sizing and fit questions about the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer, drop a comment below and I can help accordingly.

Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer Durability

When it comes to the durability of the NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2, both shoes will fare pretty well for general training sessions. For example, if you want them for recreational lifting and versatile training here and there, both shoes should last a while.

In this context, both shoes should last you at least 9-months at a minimum. Note, that can always vary slightly due to to product quality and manufacturer defects.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 durability breakdown

The durability concerns that I have with these shoes arise as you get more niche with your training and use with each shoe. For example, if you’re tackling CrossFit workouts, then you’ll get significantly better durability output from the NOBULL Trainer.

I’ve put some pairs of NOBULL Trainers through the wringer and also have a pair of NOBULL High-Top Trainers that have lasted multiple years now, and that’s with daily wear, too.

Reebok Nano X2 Froning Durability

The Reebok Nano X2’s downfall for CrossFit and durability involves its ROPEPRO+ tech on its outsole. This rubber outsole material has the tendency to pull away from the midsole when using this model for rope climbs.

For example, my pair of Reebok Nano X2 Froning broke on my first rope climbing session (shown above), so again, I would highly suggest passing on rope climbs in the Nano X2 if you want them to last and plan to use them for CrossFit.

NOBULL Trainer vs Reebok Nano X2 Boot Construction

If you have additional questions about the durability of the Reebok Nano X2 or NOBULL Trainer, drop a comment below. And on that note, I’d love your experiences with these shoes if you’ve owned them in the past, so feel free to share yours below in the comments.

Price Comparison, Are They Worth It?

For the regular NOBULL Trainer, you can expect to pay $129 USD, and for the Reebok Nano X2, you can expect to pay $135 USD. These price points are pretty similar and in line with other premium cross-training shoes.

I think before investing in either model it’s important to understand how each shoe will fit into your lifestyle and training needs, as this will dictate if the shoe is actually worth it or if it will fall short.

are the NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2 worth it

If you’re mostly invested in lifting and CrossFit, and your main concern is long-term durability, then I think the NOBULL Trainer can certainly be a training shoe that is worth it for your context.

Conversely, if your goal is a little more comfort and responsiveness for versatile and athletic-style training, then the Reebok Nano X2 can be a great option to invest in. Plus, they should last a while if you avoid wearing them for rope climbing and limit their daily use.

Reebok Nano X2

Reebok Nano X2

Pros: Versatile, Midfoot Support
Cons: Sole Durability
Size/Fit: Runs Large for Most/Wider Width
Offset: 7mm
Lifting Threshold: ~500 lbs
Mileage Threshold: <3 miles
Price: $
TF2 Rating: 4.4
NOBULL Trainer

NOBULL Trainer

Pros: Stable, Durable
Cons: Running Performance
Size/Fit: True to Size/Neutral Width
Offset: 4mm
Lifting Threshold: ~500 lbs
Mileage Threshold: <3-Miles
Price: $129
TF2 Rating: 4.6

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q:
Is the NOBULL Trainer or Reebok Nano X2 better for running?

A:
If you're planning to regularly add and perform short runs in your workouts, then you'll want to opt for the Reebok Nano X2. This shoe is fairly comfortable for runs up to 3 miles while the NOBULL Trainer is fairly uncomfortable for running.

Q:
Is the NOBULL Trainer or Reebok Nano X2 better for lifting?

A:
The NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2 can both be good cross-training shoes for recreational lifting. However, the NOBULL Trainer's midsole will provide a bit more stability than the Nano X2 so it could be a good option for strength-focused athletes.

Q:
Are the NOBULL Trainer better than the Reebok Nano X2 for CrossFit?

A:
For CrossFit, the Reebok Nano X2 and NOBULL Trainer both work. However, the NOBULL Trainer's stability and durability will be a little better across the board, as the Nano X2 can fall short for rope climbs.

Takeaway Thoughts

The NOBULL Trainer and Reebok Nano X2 are both strong cross-training shoes for certain training contexts. I like the NOBULL Trainer’s long-term durability, its ability to perform for lifting, and how it performs for CrossFit.

The Reebok Nano X2 has an edge for versatile training and can hold its own for lifting and most CrossFit WODs. They do struggle a bit more with durability than the NOBULL Trainer, but they’re a pretty strong performer nonetheless.

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

I buy and test the products featured on That Fit Friend using a regimen of training tests that I’ve developed over years of testing training shoes and gear. I may earn commissions on sales made through the links on my site.

nv-author-image

Jake Boly

I've been in the fitness and strength training industry for nearly a decade. In that time, I've trained hundreds of clients, written thousands of articles, reviewed over 100+ pairs of training shoes, and have produced a large list of training videos. I live and breathe fitness and training gear, and I think it's important that reviewers walk the walk with the gear they're testing. As for my educational background, I have my Masters in Sports Science, Bachelors in Exercise Science, and have my CSCS.

4 thoughts on “Reebok Nano X2 Vs NOBULL Trainer | Which Shoe Is Best for You?”

  1. Hey man, I’m having a pretty tough time picking out my next gym shoe. I’ve been wearing the Nike Repper DSX for a few years now and they’ve been fine but I’ve worn them down. I primarily do functional/athletic style strength training ex: variations of squats (barefoot), lunges (sometimes laterally), landmine presses, deadlifts, sleds on turf, kettlebells, single leg exercises, etc. I’ll never run in these shoes, occasionally/rarely will do some box jumps. I think I prefer a minimal heel to toe drop (0-4mm) and stable cushioning. Tried out the Nike Metcon Turbo 2 but going to return them after 3 wears because they don’t work well with my custom insoles (superfeet carbon) needed for my high arch. Ordered a pair of Nobull court trainers but we’ll see how those work. I have also been looking at the Nano line, metcon/metcon free line, and vans. Would love some of your input if you have any suggestions/advice. Thanks

    1. Hey Luke! I would suggest looking into the Reebok Nano 2.0 They re-released it for 2023 and it’s a really solid option for you based on the context you provided, IMO. 4mm drop, lower-profile midsole, and a nice width. I have review content on them, too. Shout if you have additional questions!

      1. Okay awesome thanks man, I’ll look into your review of those. Also just saw the nano x2’s are on sale right now, how do those compare to the 2s?

        1. Will have a higher drop and feel more chunky than the 2. IMO, the 2 will be the better option for your asks between the 2. The Nano X2 is a good shoe, no doubt, but it may not be as specific for your needs!

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