13 Best Minimalist CrossFit Training Shoes in 2021

1. WHITIN Cross-Trainer – Best Low Profile Shoe

These cross-trainer minimalist shoes are a durable choice for any athlete seeking a true minimalist shoe with a long lifespan. In fact, these are probably the best low profile shoes on the list.

One of the greatest design features of the WHITIN Cross-Trainer is the wider than average anatomic toe box, beneficial for reducing toe compression and allowing greater balance when performing weightlifting, power, or cardio exercises.

These cross-trainers also have thin, zero-drop soles to give users that flat “barefoot” feeling while still protecting the feet from the environment and helping maintain a more natural posture. If you are interested in an even more intensive barefoot-inspired design, the insole of these shoes are removable. 

Not only will these shoes withstand your WOD with ease, they will also tolerate nearly any weather, terrain, or climate you may face. Even in the toughest of environments, it is reasonable to expect these shoes to maintain their comfort and structure without affecting your performance negatively.

2. Reebok Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave

The Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave shoes were created specifically with the dedicated CrossFit athlete in mind.

Showcasing a highly durable and athletic design, similar to some Puma CrossFit options, these shoes have a wide toe box ideal for the level of balance needed for many of the powerful, high intensity exercises you’ll be challenged with in your workout. 

With heel bootie technology designed to stabilize the heel within the shoe and increase lower body joint stability, you will likely notice improvement in your form for any of the major lifts. The structural support, grip, and flexibility of these shoes are ideal for explosive and power-based movements. 

Given the superior design of this shoe, including flex grooves for flexibility, Flexweave fabric to increase breathability, and strong rubber outsoles to give ample traction, it would be difficult to find a minimalist shoe that rivals the Nano 8.0 Flexweave.

3. Reebok CrossFit Nano 2.0 Cross Trainer

The CrossFit Nano 2.0 cross-trainer shoes are CrossFit inspired shoes designed to outlast even the toughest WOD. 

These shoes are extremely capable of withstanding any WOD, short distance cardio, or circuit training you choose to perform. Not only do these shoes offer the typical flat heel and wide anatomic toe box of most minimalist shoe options, they also include a rubberized toe region perfect for maintaining appropriate traction during all forward body movements. 

The durability and quality of this shoe were clear upon its initial release and led Reebok to release the Nano 2.0 with modifications suggested by loyal customers. The breathable mesh construction, slight midsole cushioning, and enhanced rubber soles will provide you with an almost unprecedented CrossFit shoe experience.

4. Reebok Speed TR Flexweave – Best Lightweight Shoe

The Speed TR Flexweave is a relatively minimalist shoe that could be an effective transitional shoe for those looking to improve speed and perform quick movements.

This lightweight, low-profile, low-cut cross-trainer is a solid choice for athletic activities requiring stability, pivoting, speed, and quick transitions. Reinforced heel clips, performance-targeting rubber outsole grip, and mesh fabric will give you the much desired stability, traction, and breathability of the perfect CrossFit shoe.

While these shoes are practical for short distances, they are not recommended for long distance activities and some users have complained about discomfort from its stiff midsole. Lifting and speed activities should not be negatively affected.

5. Inov-8 F-Lite 230

The Inov-8 F-Lite 230 cross-training shoes are an excellent option if you are looking to transition into the minimalist shoe world without sacrificing the known benefits of typical cross-trainers.

The major talking point for this model is the graphene grip rubber outsole, built to make this shoe more durable, more flexible, and able to withstand any exercise in your workout with ease. This model also provides extra toe protection, beneficial for exercises like burpees and push-ups, and rope guards for a rope climbing advantage.

The 3mm heel drop and slight structural support makes this shoe an appropriate, almost barefoot shoe for those looking to experiment with a more natural posture. The flexibility, rubber sole grips, and mesh design of this model will provide you with a comfortable, breathable alternative to true barefoot shoes.

6. Nike Metcon 4

The Nike Metcon 4 is a great choice for CrossFit athletes looking for a relatively minimalist shoe that focuses on grip and traction.

The sticky rubber sole of this model is strategically designed to improve performance during many CrossFit exercises. This model also includes a rubberized region in the mid foot for improved rope climbing.

The specialized rubber forefoot provides ample grip during sprints, sled pushes, and even lifting weights. The low-profile rubberized heel clip is also ideal for reducing shoe friction against the wall when doing handstand push-ups.

This shoe is ideal for in-gym training and may lack quality and durability if you intend to use the shoes for running or other long distance activities since they’re kind of flat in the sole. However, this shoe should be able to sustain your WOD without issue.

7. ASICS GEL-Fortius TR 2

The ASICS GEL-Fortius TR 2 is a qualified contender if you are looking for a shoe built specifically for stability during high impact exercises.

The most noteworthy quality of this shoe is the heel’s GEL cushion developed to absorb impact while protecting the heel. High impact exercises like box jumps and kettlebell exercises are no match for the superior heel cushion of this model.

This 100% synthetic shoe also offers WET GRIP technology and rubberized soles and toe caps for maximal grip and stabilized weightlifting stances. 

Some users have noted that the shoe feels stiff and may be tight for those with wider feet. The GEL cushion in the heel may also be an unideal characteristic if you are looking for a more minimalist or barefoot-inspired shoe.

8. New Balance 20v7 Minimus Cross Trainer

The New Balance 20v7 Minimus cross-trainer shoes are a viable option for a grounded, stable feeling when your WOD includes strength training exercises.

These athletic minimalist shoes offer a 4mm drop and Vibram outsoles, helpful for keeping balance and grip during box jumps, heavy squats, and deadlifts. Whether you are doing circuit training, HIIT, lifting, or just running, this shoe was built for forward and lateral support.

As compared to prior models, the 20v7 provides greater breathability and ventilation with its new synthetic upper. While this shoe is highly suitable for any activity you might enjoy, the shoe may feel too narrow if you have wider feet.

9. Vibram V-Train Cross-Trainer – Best Barefoot Shoe

The V-Train by Vibram cross-trainer shoes are a lightweight five-finger, barefoot shoe choice for both indoor gym and outdoor training environments.

With a shoe design that focuses on improved traction and greater structural support (as compared to other minimalist shoes), this model was designed to target specific movements and activities.

This model’s arches include rope traction lugs to help you maintain foot grip when rope climbing, which can alternatively be used to grip weights between the feet when performing weighted exercises, such as hanging leg raises. The grip pattern was also developed to enhance traction during lateral and shuffling movements.

Though the thin sole of this shoe provides users with the “barefoot” experience that you may be seeking, the sole may prove to be too thin and wear easily when used on rougher terrain. However, in indoor environments, the shoes should hold up well.

10. Merrell Vapor Glove 4

The Merrell Vapor Glove 4 is a great fit if you are looking for a barefoot-inspired shoe that also has admirable stability and protection.

With its low stack height and zero-drop thin soles, this shoe will give you the feel of a barefoot shoe while still protecting your feet adequately. Like other Merrell shoes, this model also provides security in the heel with brand-developed heel lock technology.

Unlike most shoes on the market, this model advertises low shoe odor as a result of antimicrobial agents and mesh lining included in the design. Though barefoot-inspired, some customers claim that the toe box may be too narrow and affect the natural barefoot feeling.

11. Oranginer Barefoot Shoes

These Oranginer Barefoot shoes are highly versatile shoes suitable for both land and water activities, as they also can double as water shoes.

This model contains a wide toe box, ideal for hill work and balance exercises, as well as the thin and thin, zero-drop rubber soles found in the average barefoot shoe. With a high level of breathability due to the synthetic mesh upper, traction as a result of the rubber soles, and overall durability, you can expect to be able to perform a wide range of activities, such as running, lifting, and biking within reason. 

Depending on frequency of use, environment, and other factors, this model of shoe may have a short lifespan and lack the quality and durability necessary for the serious CrossFit athlete.

12. ALEADER hiitave Unisex Cross Trainers

The ALEADER hiitave Unisex Cross Trainers can handle any workout, whether you’re in the Box, on the trail, in the gym, or on the track. 

The lightweight construction (0.4 pounds a shoe), snug slip-on fit, and wide toe box will give you that comfy “barefoot” feel and keep you from having to cut your WODs short due to achy feet. 

In the Box, the hiitave has a few special benefits: A reinforced toe and extra room in the forefoot. 

The stronger toe can keep exercises like handstand push-ups from grinding away at the rubber outsole. And the more generous forefoot room will help you achieve a naturally wide base for strength training exercises where balance is critical (like squats, deadlifts, and snatches).

13. Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2

Inov-8’s Bare-XF 210 V2 shoes are a good solution if you are looking for a minimalist shoe with impressive grip functionality. This product is ideal for performing short burst, high intensity gym exercises, HIIT, and short runs.

This shoe offers Rope-Tec protection for an enhanced rope climbing experience as well as a 3mm outsole and rubber toe bumper for maximum protection and traction when exercising.

The most significant feature, 3mm and 6mm adjustable insoles, will allow you to personalize your footwear to either ease your transition to minimalist shoes or just increase foot comfort when performing your WOD. These removable insoles, however, have been known to slip and ride up, and you should err on the side of caution if performing long distance activities.