What makes CrossFit shoes different from other shoes?

CrossFit shoes are light and flexible but with lower heel height for lifting weights. Depending on the type, your CrossFit shoe may be heavier than a typical running shoe with more protective features to provide stability and support during heavy lifting.

Can you run in CrossFit shoes?

You can run short distances in most CrossFit shoes. CrossFit shoes (and CrossFit workouts) are designed for more intense, shorter bursts of activity; long distance running is not a part of CrossFit. Sprints can generally be done in CrossFit shoes, however.

How do you clean CrossFit shoes?

CrossFit shoes can be cleaned with a damp cloth with mild soap or laundry detergent. Many people like to clean white soles with a cleaning eraser product. For the inside of shoes, baking soda and old newspapers can help freshen your shoes and remove odors. Just vacuum the baking soda out before your next workout.

How do you know if CrossFit shoes fit properly?

You should be able to fit your thumb's width between the tip of your CrossFit shoes and your toes. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, calluses, and injuries to your nail beds, not to mention discomfort. Be sure the shoes are not too wide or narrow and that your feet do not move around inside the shoes when you are exercising.

The 7 Best CrossFit Shoes for Men of 2023

If you’re one of the four million people who practice CrossFit, you know that the type of cross-training shoe you buy is the key to optimizing your fitness. CrossFit is a form of interval training, made up of strength and conditioning exercises and functional movement performed at high intensity levels. What's on your feet goes a long way in determining your fitness success in the CrossFit box.

When looking for a shoe, consider shoes that offer stability and support so that they can bear weight. We researched dozens of CrossFit shoes and evaluated them for stability, comfort, materials, and price,

Here are the best men's CrossFit training shoes on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Reebok CROSSFIT Nano 7.0 Cross Trainer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Under Armour Charged Commit 2 Training Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Lifting:

Inov-8 Fitness & Weight Lifting Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Minimalist:

Merrell Bare Access Flex at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Running and CrossFit:

Nike Training Shoe at Dick's

Jump to Review

Best for Comfort:

NOBULL Trainings Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Wide Feet:

New Balance Cross Trainer at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon

We recommend the Nano as our top pick because they feature a sturdy, minimal drop sole that provides a solid foundation for lifting. The stability and grip of the toe and heel make it a great shoe for CrossFit, whether you’re landing box jumps, doing burpees, or climbing ropes. The shoes’ seamless upper construction provides durable ventilation, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Users also love the wide toe box, which really adds to the shoe’s overall comfort.

The shoes also feature an extremely durable Kevlar patch for protection from ropes when climbing. Like most CrossFit shoes, they’re stiff, perfect for CrossFit activities, but not as comfortable for running. The Nano is available in sizes 6.5 through 14. Plus, the shoe comes in over 20 colors to choose from.

Price at time of publication: $110

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, entry-level shoe, the Under Armour Charged Commit 2 Training Shoes is an ideal choice for those new to cross-training. Lightweight mesh covers the upper, allowing for breathability. Complete with a sockline to mold your feet, it delivers an ideal underfoot, keeping you from slipping while you train.

This shoe is finished with leather on the top of the foot for stability and flex grooves on the bottom for mobility. This trainer is topped off with Charged Cushioning for impact absorption. The shoes are available in sizes 7 through 15 and come in black and two different shades of gray.

Price at time of publication: $80

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos

Many cross-training shoes feature flat soles and enough ankle support for weightlifting, but the Inov-8 Men’s F-Lite 235 v3 – Cross Trainer goes above and beyond. This shoe delivers the ideal heel-to-toe drop for lifting and functional movements, enhancing a natural feel.

Not only does the shoe boast excellent support for lifting, but it's light and flexible as well. The outsole technology in the forefoot provides the foot with flexibility and freedom to move naturally during workouts. The toe box is roomy enough for toes to spread, offering stabilization.

Price at time of publication: $140

Amazon

View On Amazon

The Merrell Bare Access Flex shoes offer a minimalist feel with just the right amount of stability that works for both running and CrossFit. The rubber outsole has superb traction, giving you excellent grip at both the gym and while running on the trails. Users also love the shoe’s lightweight feel and durability. The shoes are available in sizes 7 through 15, and they come in black and red.

Nordstrom

View On Dick's View On Finishline.com View On Jdsports.com

Nike Metcon series is a marquee player in the cross-training footwear industry, which is why so many athletes are quick to purchase the latest model. This CrossFit-inspired shoe was built with a flat sole for lifting but had enough cushion for the midsole support when you need to sprint.

Along with running, the Nike Free Metcon 3 Men's Training Shoe is also ideal for climbing, lifting, and jumping. A firm heel, dual-density foam midsole, and a grippy rubber sole provide the combination of stability and cushioning that CrossFitters need. Users also love the minimal heel lift. The shoes also feature Flywire mid-foot technology, which helps lock your foot in place. The shoe is available in sizes 3.5 to 15. Stylish and sleek, it comes in bold color combos and the standard black and white.

Price at time of publication: $120

Courtesy of NOBULL

View On Amazon View On Nobullproject.com

Diehard CrossFit competitive fans have probably already heard of this brand. NOBULL started in 2015 by a company that prides itself on lack of gimmickry. These nimble shoes are lightweight and breathable. The upper part of the Trainer features a seamless one-piece construction of SuperFabric, a durable and abrasion-resistant material. This functional but straightforward shoe has the perfect combination of traction, flexibility, and all-day support.

The shoes feature an outsole lug pattern, which was designed for training on different terrain. The footwear transitions quickly between indoors and outdoors, with the ideal blend of flexibility, stability, and traction. The NOBULL is available in sizes 8 through 18 and a wide array of colors.

Price at time of publication: $130

Amazon

View On Amazon

If you’re a CrossFit enthusiast with wide foot problems, you know that aren't many brands that cater to wide feet. New Balance consistently offers the most variety of shoes in the hard-to-find segment, so if you've been looking for the ideal wide shoe, you’ll appreciate the New Balance Men's Dynasoft Trnr V1 Cross Trainer.

With the support and stability of a training shoe, combined with a running shoe's lightweight cushioned midsole cushioning, this cross trainer delivers an ultra-responsive ride coupled with plush comfort for an amplified performance experience.

Those who've worn the shoe commended the lightweight solid rubber outsole along with multi-directional traction for any surface. The shoe is offered in sizes 7 through 15, in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths—great for those who need a little extra room to accommodate inserts like insoles for flat feet. It's also available in black, white, and light aluminum.

Price at time of publication: $80

Final Verdict

CrossFit’s loyal fans often have several pairs of cross-training shoes in their closets. However, if you only purchase one pair, your best bet is the Reebok Men's Crossfit Cross-Trainer shoes. With high marks for stability, comfort, and grip, you’ll appreciate them whether you’re landing box jumps, climbing ropes, or doing burpees.

A close runner up to the Nano, the Nike Free Metcon 3 Men's Training Shoe is an excellent option for avid CrossFitters. It also combines stability and cushioning with a flat sole for lifting and a midsole for sprinting, suitable for any CrossFit activity. Whether you’re climbing, lifting, flexing, running, or jumping, the Nike Metcon can also handle just about anything you throw at it.

What to Look for in CrossFit Shoes for Men

Support

CrossFit workouts are focused on heavy weight lifting feats, so shoes that offer arch support and foot and ankle stability are a wise choice. The shoes should be non-slip, made of sturdy material, and feel stable when you are lifting.

Comfort

If your shoes are not comfortable, the rest of your workout will suffer. Choose shoes that provide enough room, but are not too big for your foot shape, whether that's wide or narrow. Be sure your shoes can be adjusted with laces or straps for tightness to help them shape to your feet.

Flexibility

Along with heavy lifting, CrossFit workouts are also packed with functional high-energy movements like box jumps and burpees. Your shoes will need to be flexible to keep up with the tasks at foot. The upper and forefoot of your shoes should be bendable for jumping purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes CrossFit shoes different from other shoes?

CrossFit shoes are light and flexible but with lower heel height for lifting weights. Depending on the type, your CrossFit shoe may be heavier than a typical running shoe with more protective features to provide stability and support during heavy lifting.
Can you run in CrossFit shoes?

You can run short distances in most CrossFit shoes. CrossFit shoes (and CrossFit workouts) are designed for more intense, shorter bursts of activity; long distance running is not a part of CrossFit. Sprints can generally be done in CrossFit shoes, however.
How do you clean CrossFit shoes?

CrossFit shoes can be cleaned with a damp cloth with mild soap or laundry detergent. Many people like to clean white soles with a cleaning eraser product. For the inside of shoes, baking soda and old newspapers can help freshen your shoes and remove odors. Just vacuum the baking soda out before your next workout.
How do you know if CrossFit shoes fit properly?

You should be able to fit your thumb's width between the tip of your CrossFit shoes and your toes. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, calluses, and injuries to your nail beds, not to mention discomfort. Be sure the shoes are not too wide or narrow and that your feet do not move around inside the shoes when you are exercising.