Reebok's Nano X2 is a Stable and Responsive Trainer for Almost Any Workout

The Reebok Nano has been a do-it-all favorite for the gym since its debut in 2011. Known for its stability and comfort that can take you from strength workouts to sprints, the twelfth Nano (Nano X2) hits the scene with significant updates to continue its predecessor’s reputation for versatility in and outside studio walls.

To test the limits of Reebok’s Nano X2, I spent several weeks performing strength, HIIT, CrossFit, and running workouts of varying intensities to see what all the fuss was about. As a certified personal trainer, and self-admitted gym rat, I gauged the performance of the shoe according to key areas that a superb cross trainer should have, paying special attention to fit, stability and support, responsive cushioning, comfort, blister protection, and durability of the shoe. I then gave the shoes a score of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for these key attributes. Read on for my extensive review of Reebok’s Nano X2.

Who It’s For

If you’re looking for an all-around, reliable shoe to wear for virtually any activity, the Nano X2 is just the kick to get you amped for “beast mode.” A popular choice for CrossFitters, lifters, and studio class attendees alike, the pair touts a stable platform for lifting, lightweight responsiveness for sprints, and a streamlined design that offers fashion and function for a slew of activities. 

It has a nice, wide toe box to help you splay and grip your toes during lifts, and a solid outsole designed to stick landings, so it’s great for dominating any workout of the day (WOD). If your training involves running, the higher heel will help propel you forward. It’s also helpful to make squats more comfortable for those with poor dorsiflexion. While the heel drop is higher than most lifting shoes, it doesn’t feel stacked like a running shoe would and is very comfortable and stable for lifting. That being said, if you prefer a super flat shoe for lifting, the Nano X2 may not be for you.

The molded arch within the Nano X2 will be liked by most normal to higher-arched feet, but possibly bothersome for flat-footed friends. Flexibility at the midfoot makes the Nano X2 supportive without being too stiff. This compliments most neutral strides, but especially those who supinate (have excessive outward foot roll). Because of this flexibility, the Nano X2 might not provide enough motion control if you need help preventing excessive foot roll (overpronation). If you overpronate in your stride, or if you have flat feet, you may look to other cross trainers we love on the market, like the Nike Metcon 8.

If you want to look good while busting PRs, this revamped Nano is even more aesthetically pleasing than the last, with fresh colorways and textile designs that bring the Nano up to speed while maintaining hints of the classic shoe.

Also, because this trainer runs wide and about a half size large, you’ll want to size down in the Nano X2.

Cushioning: Light shock absorption

Whether it was during a HIIT workout or on a run, the lightweight cushioning of the Nano X2’s EVA Floatride Energy Foam absorbed each landing without sacrificing responsive energy return. I found the 7-millimeter heel-to-toe drop to have enough cushioning conducive to running without the hazardous height that could create an issue when doing lifts or other exercises. 

Since I’m used to running shoes, I found this trainer to be more minimal in the forefoot, but I was impressed that this didn’t cause shock pain even when running for long periods on concrete. Plus, lifting with the lightweight cushioning of Nano’s X2 was ideal, because it was firm enough to grip and push off with the toes. For these reasons, I scored it a 4.3 out of 5 for cushioning—not a perfect score, because it’s not the most cushioned shoe on the market, but that makes it ideal for its intended use as a multi-purpose trainer. If you do ultra-heavy lifts, you might find this still too squishy, but these will work great for most lifts and exercises.

Responsiveness: Great energy return

For a trainer that has light cushioning, I found the Nano X had just the right amount of spring to make push-offs during sprints energetic and plyometric movements swift. The Floatride midsole was great for absorbing shock during jumps or burpees, and the 7-millimeter heel drop propelled each running stride, making for an enjoyable experience with optimal control. The higher heel was also great for moves like squats and jumps because it helped me get into a comfortable position without extreme dorsiflexion when my calves were super tight. Overall, this shoe performed great in the responsiveness category, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for this attribute.

Upper comfort: Cool, comfortable, and relaxed

The Nano X2 is updated with a durable knit upper, which felt somewhat stiff and awkward at first—the only tick against its perfect comfort score, which ended up being a 4.7 out of 5. The shoe did quickly relax after wear for a quick break-in. Though thicker than the material used in Nano’s last version, I admit that it felt surprisingly comfortable and breathable without sacrificing the toughness that intense training requires. Strong but flexible mesh lining kept the feet ventilated, even on hot training days, and I really liked how the tongue was lightly padded without being too much, didn’t slip, and also felt breathable. 

I found the heel to be sleek, contoured, and smooth, keeping the foot in place without trapping heat. The update also includes a reduced height of the streamlined ankle to prevent Achilles irritation, which I thought was a great addition. It is flexible and comfortable with every foot extension or side-to-side circuit motion.

Fit: Runs roomy and a half size large

Knowing that the Nano typically runs large, I ordered a half size down for the X2 and thanked myself later for it. It was still roomy, with a wider toe box for the foot to relax toes and maintain a good grip during lifts, but I never felt like my feet were swimming in the shoes or shifting drastically. In fact, my foot felt really locked in and engaged. Since the size discrepancy is fairly common knowledge, noted on the site, as well as very manageable to troubleshoot, I scored the Nano X2’s fit a 4 out of 5.

Lateral stability and support: Flexible support 

High-intensity training requires stable support from your footwear to get you through as many rounds as possible (AMRAP). As far as stability goes, I gave the Nano X2 a solid 5 out of 5, as it excels in flexible support that is comfortable enough for a range of exercises. I loved the molded insole heel counter of this shoe, which cradles the foot and arch without requiring you to add orthotics. The stable heel provides a sturdy platform for solid landings and stacking on weight. It even features a headstand pushup “clip”—a little portion of the heel’s outsole that juts out with a subtle “fin” that lends additional backward stability and does a great job at helping you to push off against a wall.  

Huge design differences that I noticed in this updated Nano were the midfoot-to-heel’s hard TPU heel clip, flexible overlay, and incorporated reinforced lace eyelets that make for a locked-down foot system to keep everything stable and supported. This made exercise transitions comfortable, no matter the activity, and also allowed me to adapt to new stations and take these shoes outdoors without a hitch. As I made my way from studio floors to outside concrete, I appreciated the 4-millimeter lugs that provided grippy, adaptable traction, keeping me on my feet and ready for my next move. 

Blister protection: Locked in, all-day comfort without the rubbing

I experienced no pressure points or hot spots, even after a long or high-intensity workout in the Nano X2s. And from comfort to support, I didn’t want to take them off. Seriously, I could wear these all day–something I can’t and don’t usually say about just any shoe. I attribute this to the molded contouring of the removable insole insert and the streamlined, soft padding that isn’t overly “cushy.” If you do a lot of repetitive side-to-side motions and have narrower feet, you might experience more shifting in the forefoot. Overall, I rated this shoe a 5 out of 5 for blister protection since the molded heel counter keeps the foot locked in place, minimizing any kind of rubbing.

Durability: Surprisingly tough and easy to clean

As mentioned, the construction of the Nano X2 is incredibly durable, and especially heavy-duty for such a light shoe. The woven textile upper is strong and flexible, and I was impressed at how it repelled dirt and grime, even with the light colorway I chose (the Chalk/Quartz Glow/Acid Yellow). After three weeks of workouts, these shoes still look remarkably clean, though I’m sure dustier gym conditions would truly put this to the test.  

The only weak point as far as material strength with the Nano X2 is that the lack of a rope guard at the midfoot makes wear and tear to the rubber sole inevitable over time. If climbing rope is not part of your routine, as it often is in CrossFit, then the grippy outsole will last much, much longer. However, for a myriad of other purposes besides this one activity, the Nano X2 will endure a beating, which is why I gave it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for durability. 

How We Tested

Over the course of three weeks, I took the Nano X2 to court with different indoor and outdoor workouts of varying intensities—a three-mile walk, a three-mile light run, and a sprint workout; then one mile-treadmill run, three HIIT and CrossFit workouts, and three strength training workouts of graduating difficulties—all while wearing the same socks. I observed how each specific activity affected the comfort, fit, and traction of the shoe. Then, I recorded each shoe’s performance on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) in the key areas of cushioning, lateral stability and support, responsiveness, upper comfort, blister protection, and durability.

To test the shoe’s comfort for all-day wear, I also wore the Nano X2 during extended, casual activities like working, doing household chores, running errands, and playing with our pets.

Price

Available from about $120-$140, and comparable in price to others of a similar caliber, we think Reebok’s Nano X2 is worth the triple-digit cost for how versatile and well-made of a trainer it is. It’s made to take a pounding through countless circuits, yet it’s comfortable enough for hours of wear. Plus it looks cool, making it a great everyday tennie, too.

The Competition

Similar versatility to other cross trainers, but with a streamlined design, better cushioning, and more flexibility—but less midsole protection—it’s hard to beat Reebok’s Nano X2 when looking for a multitasking trainer with lasting value at a relatively reasonable price point.

Nike Metcon 8: Often compared to Reebok’s Nano, the Nike Metcon performs neck-and-neck with the Nano with nearly every generation release, with both shoes outperforming each other in distinguished areas. For one, the Metcon’s inner stability plate, stiffer midsole, and lower, 4-millimeter drop make it a better platform for lifting, but it’s not as comfortable for running as the more flexible Nano X2. Another knock against the Nano is that it’s missing a guard at the arch for rope climbs, like the Metcon—but the Metcon feels bulkier because of the extra midsole build. 

While the Nano X2 is available in a huge range of colorways we love, the Metcon has it beat for aesthetic variety. Nike Club Members can customize their Metcon in countless ways, literally from the inside out, building their signature Metcon from a step-by-step collection of patterns and shades. Your styled Nike comes with a price, though—a $30 upsale, in fact. So unless a customization gym shoe really matters to you, The Nano X2 offers plenty of hues at its $130 price point. 

NOBULL Trainer: Just like the Nike Metcon, the NOBULL Trainer is another CrossFit-type, cross-training shoe contender to Reebok’s Nano X2. A flat shoe that shines during heavier lifts, the NOBULL is a favorite among gym-goers desiring a minimal drop and sufficient cushioning—but we wouldn’t recommend it for training that involves lots of running. And while the NOBULL doesn’t come in as many colorways as the Metcon 8 or the Nano X2, it does come in some nice neutrals, fluorescents, patterns, and rises (think “chic, modernized Chuck Taylors”). Depending on the design intricacies, NOBULL trainers go for around $115-$140 a pair.

RAD One: The RAD One is another great trainer option with similar lightweight cushion, responsiveness, and flexible stability to the Nano X2, but it is more expensive at $150 per pair. The RADs have a higher heel offset at 6 millimeters, making them just as comfortable for running as the Nano X2. With fewer colorways than the Nano X2 and the Metcon 8, the RAD One is still stylish and sporty with its clean and neutral combinations that make a great option for anyone wanting a unisex shoe. 

Strike Mvmnt Haze: With a similar weight and flexibility, Strike Mvmnt’s Haze Trainer is a lot like the Rad One in cushion and responsiveness, but with a slightly lower heel than the RAD One. With a lower, 4-millimeter heel drop, The Haze is great for heavier lifts. It’s also slightly better for rope climbs than the Nano X2 and RAD One, thanks to its grippy, durable sole. With crisp colorways that can go from gym to everyday wear, the Haze aesthetic and versatility might be worth the $150 investment.