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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 you’ve wondered about the differences and similarities between the Reebok Nano X3 versus TYR CXT-1 Trainer hopefully this article can help clear the air.
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 best choice for your needs.
In this Reebok Nano X3 versus TYR CXT-1 Trainer showdown, I’ll cover the key performance, construction, durability, and sizing differences to know about these cross-training shoes.
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TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 Performance
To break down the performance of the TYR CXT-1 Trainer versus the Reebok Nano X3, I’ll cover a few different training verticals. I’ll discuss how these shoes compare for lifting, versatile training, short runs, and daily wear.
Since both of these cross-training shoes are designed for versatility, hopefully, you can better cross-reference each shoe’s performance with your specific needs.
Testing the TYR CXT-1 Trainer Vs Reebok Nano X3 for Lifting and CrossFit
When it comes to lifting, the Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer both provide a good level of stability for more lifting contexts. Compared to other cross-training shoes, these are models that 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 you don’t necessarily need more heel elevation, then 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.
For deadlifts, both of these models have been stable enough for 500 lb plus pulls, so heavier pulling shouldn’t be an issue in either of these models. On top of this, they’ve also both 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’re wanting 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
Reebok Nano X3
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.
When it comes to similarities, I think you’ll get a similar level of ankle and lateral support with both shoes. For multi-directional agility training, lateral plyometrics, and even pickleball, I like how both of these shoes provide a nice level of security.
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 difference to note between these models, which is a subtle difference, includes 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
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
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.
Reebok Nano X3
$140
Best For
- Recreational Weight Training
- Functional Fitness/CrossFit
- Athletic-Style Training
- Short Runs/Sprints
- Casual HIIT
Falls Short
- For Minimalist Lovers
- For Long-Distance Running
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.
TYR CXT-1 Trainer
Reebok Nano X3
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Are the TYR CXT-1 Trainer good for CrossFit?
Q:Are the Reebok Nano X3 good for CrossFit?
Takeaway Thoughts
The Reebok Nano X3 and TYR CXT-1 Trainer both deliver a high level of versatility in the gym. Luckily, there are a lot of differences that separate these shoes that can help suggest which model would be best for your needs.
If you want a best-of-all-worlds style shoe that is built wider, then I’d suggest going with the Reebok Nano X3. For a higher drop and a bit more arch, opt for the TYR CXT-1 Trainer.
If you have additional questions about the TYR CXT-1 Trainer versus Reebok Nano X3, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly or @that_fit_friend).
