The best trainers for CrossFit

The Reebok Nano series has been a long favourite among CrossFit enthusiasts, and the Nano X3 upholds the reputation with flying colours. The chances are if you've been to CrossFit, at least one person in your group will have been sporting a pair of these. There's a reason as to why we've given the Reebok Nano's the title of 'best overall CrossFit trainers' and that's because they are a true all-round trainer.

Excelling in areas like stability, support and durability, the new Lift and Run Chassis system in the Nano X3's has got your back when it comes to lifting weights, tackling a WOD or going for a run.

Unlike most trainers, the heel piece takes on a dome-shaped form, which compresses under the load of your foot when lifting to create a stable platform. New to the Nano series, it then cleverly undergoes a softening process when you lift off and begin running. This interesting, yet remarkable, design is built on award-winning Floatride Energy Foam, engineered to transform the way you run.

Nike came into the world of CrossFit with a bang with its Metcon shoes, showcasing dedication to intense workout regimes. Building upon the excellence of its predecessor, the Metcon 8, these trainers are a powerhouse, offering users exceptional stability and a low, flat and wide heel which is perfect for lifting heavy weights. A clever moulded rubber wraps around the middle of the foot to the upper, with the aim of enhancing support, making rope climbs a breeze. Meanwhile, the dual-density foam midsole provides responsive cushioning for continuous cardio and movements, making them a great option for various CrossFit exercises.

If this wasn't enough, an innovative heel plate named the Hyperlift plate, is in place to evenly distribute weight. This will provide unmatched stability during split squats and deadlifts. Hyperlift not only directs weight downward and outward, but also bolsters the heel's rigidity, to make sure you feel fully grounded and supported so you can reach your fitness potential. Plus, the durability and sleek design are just two added bonuses.

If you're a minimalist and prefer simplicity in your CrossFit activewear, the NOBULL Trainer+ should be your top choice. Straightforward in design but exceptional in performance, these shoes are made specifically for CrossFit as part of their NOBULL CrossFit games collection.

Featuring a SuperFabric one-piece upper, designed for breathability and to stand the test of time, your trainers will remain in perfect condition workout after workout. To find your footing, NOBULL have engineered their shoes to have a spacious toe box and a low drop to enhance your stance. On top of this, the padded heel, collar and tongue ensure optimal comfort.

On the inside of the shoe is a perforated micro suede tongue and a moulded insole to deliver comfort and, you guessed it, breathability. Rivalling the Nike Metcon 9, the lace system is reinforced with internal webbing to guarantee stability and longevity so you can feel like these shoes are a second skin for your feet.

KIPRUN's KD900X shoes has real-life backing from athlete Yoann Kowal. He wore the trainers during the 2022 Lille semi marathon, where he beat his personal best after he completed the race in an impressive time of one hour two minutes. After the race, Yoann praised the shoes for their lightweight design and traction on the road, particularly during challenging moments on damp ground and hairpin bends.

The KD900X also take the title for the fastest shoes ever designed at Decathlon. In its quest to create the perfect cutting-edge shoe, they collaborated with Arkema to pioneer the VFOAM in Pebax material. This specialised material is engineered to be 20 percent more dynamic than traditional shoe foams.

Combined with a carbon plate the trainers are said to return a staggering 75 percent of your expended energy, so you can push your fitness even further. Continually, weighing 225g in a size eight, KIPRUN focused on choosing the lightest materials and sole to enhance your running performance by reducing energy consumption during workouts.

When it comes to Olympic weightlifting, the Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 is your best bet. These trainers are designed to provide maximum stability and grounding during heavy lifts. Boasting a raised heel and high-density midsole, they ensure your firm footing even under the most substantial weights. The canvas upper, built to withstand rigorous use, is crafted with 50 percent recycled materials for sustainably-minded CrossFitters. Moreover, the outsole is made from purpose-designed rubber to firmly anchor your feet to the floor, which offers users the stability they are looking for when completing heavy lifts.

While the Adipower trainers may not be your go-to when it comes to running or box jumps, they are unbeatable for when your WOD requires squats or Olympic lifts.

The Saloman Alphacross shoes are a great choice for running WODs. With the multidirectional lugs on the outsole and ContraGrip rubber, its trainers are made for tackling any kind of condition with ample grip, whether that be smooth tarmac or rocky trails.

The Alphacross also features a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane to shield you from the elements, and ensure your trainers still look great afterwards. Not forgetting the lacing system that offers hassle-free take on or off and a secure fit, meanwhile the protective toe cap guards protect against any obstacles that come your way while running.

Although the Nike Metcon and Reebok Nano's are popular choices for female CrossFitters, New Balance target women specifically with its Minimus range as they are made for narrower feet. It also has some great other qualities, like the premium liners which allow sockless training, and a mesh upper created for a lightweight feel and increased airflow, guaranteeing cool comfort throughout every rigorous workout.

The TPU-infused design not only elevates this core durability and support, but also offers cushioning without compromising on stability. Other design features to look out for include the full rubber midsole and the fact New Balance has cleverly removed any visible sew overlays to ensure that secure fit.

Ultimately, the Minimus trainers offer a reliable and well-designed option for women looking to optimise their performance in the gym.

Designed for versatility, these athletic shoes empower you to conquer everything CrossFit throws at you. The soft yet durable Flexweave knit upper ensures breathability while providing integrated support for stable multidirectional movement during rigorous training sessions. Also experience a responsive and flexible forefoot with Floatride Energy Foam, delivering lightweight cushioning for optimal performance. The reliable traction of the durable rubber outsole, featuring a lug pattern and ROPEPRO outsole midfoot teeth. This feature let's to train anywhere and climb with confidence.

Although we wouldn't recommend Converse trainers for extended cardio CrossFit sessions, they find favour among certain weightlifters due to their flat, non-compressive sole. The flat design plays a crucial role in sustaining proper form during movements like squats and deadlifts, minimising the risk of instability. Additionally, Converse shoes boast a low heel-to-toe drop, appealing to individuals who prefer a grounded sensation in their workouts. They also make for a budget-accessible option without compromising on performance.

The eye-catching design of the Nike Metcon 5 not only makes a statement in the gym, but also reflects the advanced technology within. There is so much going on within these shoes, from the plush foam around the collar for ankle support, to the webbing eyelets to offer dynamic containment. With their thick rubber tread in high-wear areas, you know that when you invest in a pair of Nike Metcon trainers, you're investing in durability. Because after all, that's what we want from a pair of shoes nowadays right? A pair we can confidently reach for, time after time.