TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 | Which Shoe Is Better?

That Fit Friend is supported by its readers. I [Jake Boly] run this site myself and buy the gear I review. If you purchase through my site, I may earn commissions on sales, read more here!

The Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer are both popular training shoe options for lifting, cross-training, and CrossFit. Both of these shoes deliver well-rounded versatility so is there a standout model?

If you’ve been thinking about buying one of these shoes and have wondered about the differences and similarities between the Reebok Nano X3 and the TYR CXT-1 Trainer.

I like both of these shoes in the gym but for slightly different reasons. And if you can better understand where the Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer excel and fall short in the gym, then you can make the ideal choice for your needs.

Jake’s Thoughts: I love the idea of looking into older models and saving a few bones when doing so, but also make sure you check out the latest shoes in these lines, the TYR CXT-2 Trainer and Reebok Nano X4.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 Performance

Testing the TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 for Lifting and CrossFit

Regarding lifting, the Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer provide a good level of stability for more lifting contexts. Compared to other cross-training shoes, these models will have denser midsoles for lifting support.

Thus far, I’ve squatted over 400 lbs in both shoes and they’ve done well regarding limiting compression. One difference to note about these shoes’ performances for squats and lower body movements outside of their stability similarity is their heel-to-toe drops.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer features a 9mm heel-to-toe drop, which gives it the highest drop out of CrossFit-focused training shoes. In the Reebok Nano X3, you have a 7mm heel-to-toe drop which is consistent with the Nano X2 and Nano X1’s drop.

If you’re a taller lifter, lack mobility, or like a little more “heel” when squatting, doing thrusters and wall balls, and attacking leg days, then the TYR CXT-1 Trainer will likely feel great for you. I’m a lankier lifter, and this shoe’s drop works well for my needs.

Conversely, if you’re indifferent about your shoe’s drop or don’t necessarily need more heel elevation, the Reebok Nano X3 should work well for you. It’s only a 2mm difference, but when training, it feels more significant, which is interesting.

Both of these models have been stable enough for 500-lb plus pulls for deadlifts, so heavier pulling shouldn’t be an issue. They’ve also been pretty comparable for general strength training.

When it comes to CrossFit-specific demands, both shoes work well. However, I think there is a clear all-around winner between these models. The TYR CXT-1 Trainer can have an issue with midfoot durability when rope climbing, which hinders its long-term CrossFit performance.

The Reebok Nano X3 has had its ROPEPRO+ reworked so it doesn’t suffer from the same durability issues that plagued the prior two Nano models. Plus, this shoe also features a new Lift and Run Chassis System which adds to this model’s versatility for WODs.

Both shoes feel good for short runs programmed in WODs, and I don’t necessarily think there’s a clear-cut winner in that vertical. The CXT-1 Trainer’s Surge NRG Foam midsole feels great for sprints, while the Nano X3’s Floatride Energy Foam is also responsive.

That all being said, I think if you want one of these shoes for CrossFit and you want to get the most out of your money, you may be better off with the Reebok Nano X3 because it’s shown that it has better durability for this context.

Winner: For lifting, both shoes work great. Opt for the TYR CXT-1 Trainer if you like a higher heel-to-toe drop. For CrossFit, both shoes can definitely work, but the TYR CXT-1 Trainer can have durability issues with the rope climbs so the Nano X3 may be the better call.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer

Pros: Stable, Versatile

Cons: Long-Term Durability

Size/Fit: True to Size/Neutral Width

Offset: 9mm

Lifting Threshold: ~525 lbs

Mileage Threshold: <3 miles

Price: $130

TF2 Rating: 4.3

Shop TYR

Reebok Nano X3

Pros: Versatile, Athletic

Cons: Run a Little Stiff

Size/Fit: Varies Based on Foot Anatomy

Offset: 7mm

Lifting Threshold: ~500 lbs

Mileage Threshold: <3 miles

Price: $

TF2 Rating: 4.4

Shop Reebok

Testing the TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 for Versatile Training

For versatile training including workouts that have HIIT, plyometrics, and athletic-style training programmed in your workout, there are some pretty significant similarities and differences between these shoes regarding their fits.

Both shoes provide similar ankle and lateral support. I like how both of these shoes provide a nice level of security for multi-directional agility training, lateral plyometrics, and even pickleball.

Another similarity with both of these shoes for versatile training is their overall midsole responsiveness. The TYR’s Surge NRG Foam and Nano X3’s Floatride Energy Foam midsoles give you a decent level of bounce for things like pogos, jump rope, and box jumps.

One subtle difference between these models is their outsole tread capabilities. For most versatile sessions, the outsoles on these models work just fine; however, the Nano X3 is a little more grippy than the CXT-1 Trainer.

I think the Nano X3’s outsole takes the edge here because of its front-to-back grooves as they give a little more bite on turf, especially for lateral work compared to the TYR CXT-1 Trainer.

The second difference to note between these shoes is that the Nano X3 has a little more width throughout its construction. In addition, the Nano X3 has a flatter midfoot which makes it a better option for slightly wider feet and flatter feet.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer also has a little more arch built-in which could be hit or miss for athletes depending on their fit preferences. I like it because it gives them a more “athletic” fit, but if you’re typically not a fan of any arch, then pass on this model.

Winner: Both shoes are okay. I’d suggest opting for the model that aligns with your fit preferences. The Nano X3 has a little more traction and a wider construction while the TYR CXT-1 Trainer is narrower and has a bit more arch support.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer

$130

4.3

Stability

4.7

Versatility

4.6

Durability

3.9

Quality

4.1

Pros

Well-rounded performance for lifting and cross-training.
Higher heel-to-toe drop can be great for taller lifters/lifters lacking mobility.
Surge NRG Foam is responsive for sprints and plyometrics.
Good arch and ankle support if you need them.
Narrower and medium-width feet will feel right at home with this model.

Cons

The high drop can feel like "a lot" for flat/minimalist shoe lovers.
Long-term midfoot durability can be incredibly variable for rope climbs.
The arch support can feel offputting for flat feet.
Wide feet will want to pass on this shoe and consider better options.

Best For

CrossFit/Cross-Training
Recreational Lifting
Athletic-Style Workouts
Athletes That Like Higher Drops

Falls Short

For Minimal Drop Lovers
For Athletes That Like “Minimalist-Style” Shoes

Shop Box Basics

Shop TYR

Testing the TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 for Short Runs and Daily Wear

For short runs, the TYR CXT-1 Trainer and Reebok Nano X3 have both held their own. With both of these shoes, you’ll want to cap your mileage to about three miles or less as their midsoles run pretty stable.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer has been a strong shoe for sprint work and interval-style runs while the Reebok Nano X3 has performed slightly better for half-mile intervals and slightly longer running sessions.

If I had to choose one model for short runs, I’d probably go with the Reebok Nano X3. Its Lift and Run Chassis System give it a more forgiving ride for a wider range of speeds and running styles.

For daily wear, both of these shoes can technically work, but I’d suggest limiting their use to strictly training if you want to get more out of them. The TYR CXT-1 Trainer also runs fairly narrow so for all-day wear its toe box can be a little cramped.

If you absolutely want one of these shoes for daily wear, then opt for the Reebok Nano X3. It has a little more width, and from a good-looking appearance point of view, there’s a wider range of colorway options in the Nano X3.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 Construction

To break down the construction differences between the Reebok Nano X3 versus the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, I’ll cover each part of these shoes and the components that compose them.

Hopefully, by breaking down each part of these shoes, this construction section is a lot more digestible and easy to navigate because there are a lot of differences between these models.

Outsole

The Reebok Nano X3 features a full rubber outsole with an extended layer that covers part of the toe box. The tread on this shoe has a split construction from the midfoot to the forefoot and it has a “stickier” feel to it once broken in.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer also features a full rubber outsole and it has a thick extended toe bumper that wraps over the toe box. This model has a lower profile tread pattern which is why I think the Nano X3 beats it slightly on certain surfaces.

Midsole

The Reebok Nano X3 features Floatride Energy Foam throughout the entirety of its sole. In the midfoot, you have a ROPEPRO+ that covers the midsole to support rope climbs and you also have the Lift and Run Chassis that inserts into the midfoot and wraps around the heel.

In the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, you have their signature Surge NRG Foam which has a similar level of density to the Floatride Energy Foam. The midsole through the midfoot in this model is also covered by a dense and grooved extended outsole wrap.

Upper

The Reebok Nano X3 is constructed with Flexweave and this covers the forefoot and midfoot in this model. There’s a light internal toe guard in this model and the midfoot and heel are covered with textile overlays. The Lift and Run Chassis System also wraps the heel.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer is built with a breathable mesh that extends from its forefoot into the midfoot. The midfoot and heel are covered in textile overlays and have a good level of thickness and support to them.

Laces and Tongue

The Reebok Nano X3 features a traditional lacing system and has six core eyelets with a seventh eyelet for lace-lock. The tongue is built with a padded mesh and it has a loop for additional security. The midfoot security in this model is solid overall.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer also features a traditional lacing system and has five core eyelets with a sixth eyelet for the lace lock. The tongue is also a padded mesh and it has two loops for tongue security. Like the Nano X3, the CXT-1 Trainer’s security is strong.

Weight, Heel-to-Toe Drop, and Insole

The Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer both have thin foam removable insoles. The heel-to-toe drop and weights of these models are somewhat similar with the Nano X3 weighing more.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12.65 oz (for my size 10 model), 9mm heel-to-toe drop.
Reebok Nano X3 Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12.65 oz (for my size 10 model), 9mm heel-to-toe drop.

If you have additional questions about the Reebok Nano X3 versus TYR CXT-1 Trainer’s constructions, drop a comment below and I can clarify whatever you have.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 Sizing

The sizing and fit are fairly different in the Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer and you’ll want to size these shoes based on your foot anatomy. In both models, sizing can be a bit polarizing depending on your foot shape.

In the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, if you have a narrow and neutral-width foot then you should be safe going true to size. This model’s length runs true but it has a narrower width through the midfoot and forefoot.

If you have wide feet, you’ll likely want to pass on the TYR CXT-1 Trainer because I don’t think you’ll get enough width through the forefoot. Plus, this model’s arch could be uncomfortable for a wider foot’s midfoot.

In the Reebok Nano X3, if you have a narrow-width foot, you’ll want to go down a half-size. If you have a neutral-width foot, then I’d suggest going up or down based on how much room you typically have at the end of your toe box.

If you typically have a fair amount of room and have a neutral-width foot, then size down a half-size. Conversely, if you’re pretty close to the end of your toe box, then you should be fine going true to size.

For wide feet, I think you’ll be safe going true to size in the Nano X3. You can definitely feel the width differences between the CXT-1 Trainer and Nano X3 and wider feet will want to opt for the Nano.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Sizing Thoughts: Go true to size. Wide feet may want to pass on this model.
Reebok Nano X3 Sizing Thoughts: Narrow feet, size down a half-size. Neutral-width feet, size down for a snugger fit, and go TTS for a little more room. Wide feet, go TTS.

If you have additional sizing and fit questions about the TYR CXT-1 Trainer versus the Reebok Nano X3, drop a comment below.

TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 Durability

If you’re investing in the TYR CXT-1 Trainer and Reebok Nano X3 for lifting, then you should get a nice level of durability out of both shoes. For recreational lifting, there aren’t really glaring durability issues with these models.

In addition, both models should also last you a while if you’re using them for cross-training, classes, and short runs. For these settings and lifting, I’d expect these shoes to last you a minimum of eight months and that’s if you’re going super hard in them.

For CrossFit, that’s where I think you’ll start to see more durability discrepancies. As mentioned above, I had issues with one of my TYR CXT-1 Trainer’s midfoot when rope climbing.

The dense rubber wrap that covered the midfoot lost a chunk after about a week of use. I’ve also had That Fit Friend community members share that they’ve experienced a similar issue which is a bummer.

I think if you’re investing in the TYR CXT-1 Trainer for CrossFit, then you’ll want to tread lightly if you’re a J-hook rope climber. I have yet to experience durability issues in the Reebok Nano X3 with WODs that include rope climbing which was an issue the prior models have.

I think with the reworked ROPEPRO+ and Flexweave upper in the Nano X3, it’s not a much more viable option regarding durability across the board for different training verticals.

If you’ve had a positive or negative durability experience with the Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer, drop a comment below and share what you’ve noticed with your model.

Price Comparison

For the TYR CXT-1 Trainer, you can expect to pay $130 USD, and for the Reebok Nano X3, you can expect to pay a little more at $140 USD. These are pretty standard price points for premium cross-training shoes.

I think the prices for these shoes can be justified depending on how you’re using them and how they align with your feet. For example, I don’t think most will regret investing in these shoes if they make sure they know what they’re getting.

That being said, if you’re wanting a shoe that’s pretty foolproof for just about everything, then the Nano X3 would be my suggestion. Plus, this shoe doesn’t have glaring durability issues that you’ll have to be concerned with.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer is worth it for those that love higher heel-to-toe drops, enjoy a bit more arch support, and like narrower-fitting shoes. If any of these align with you, then I think you’ll really enjoy the CXT-1 Trainer’s fairly unique fit.

If you’re not wanting to spend that much on your shoes, then I’d suggest looking into models like the Reebok Nano X2 or UA TriBase Reign 4 since you can typically find pairs on sale and they’re equally versatile.