It’s no secret that Nike makes some of the best athletic shoes on the planet, and that’s especially true when it comes to the world of CrossFit. As any experienced CrossFitter knows, shoes are an essential tool in your training, and it’s not a good idea to wear a cheap pair of sneakers to the box for your CrossFit workouts because they won’t be able to survive.
A good CrossFit shoe is able to handle intense workouts while helping you avoid injury. They should also provide maximum comfort, support, and stability. There are generally three types of CrossFit shoes on the market: minimalist shoes, running shoes, and lifting shoes.
In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick!
Nike 4XD Training Shoe
- Excellent cross-trainer for any CrossFit workout
- Superior traction and grip
A minimalist shoe has a zero heel-to-toe drop to make you feel like you are barefoot, plus a wide toe box that allows toe splaying during lifting. The stack height, which is the height of the sole, should be small so you feel the ground.
Running shoes should have a small heel-to-toe drop, but they should also be stiff in the middle and flexible at the ball of the foot. These are sometimes referred to as “tennis shoes”.
Lifting shoes should give you maximum support for weightlifting, and they usually have a strap and special lacing system for a snug fit. Lifters also have a heel for stability.
Now that you know what features the best CrossFit shoes should have, keep reading to find out our picks for the 13 best Nike Crossfit Workout Shoes for 2020.
| Rank | Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Nike Metcon 4 XD |
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| #2 |  Nike Men's Free 5.0 V6 |
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| #3 |  Nike Men's Lunar Fingertrap Trainer |
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| #4 |  Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34 |
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| #5 |  Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF Cross Trainer |
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| #6 |  Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2 |
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| #7 |  Nike Free Metcon |
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| #8 |  Nike Metcon Repper DSX |
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| #9 |  Nike Metcon 5 |
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| #10 |  Nike Women’s Metcon 2 |
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| #11 |  Nike Women’s Free 5.0 Tr Fit 5 |
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| #12 |  Nike Women’s Zoom Fit |
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| #13 |  Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker |
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1. Nike 4XD Training Shoe
The best Nike CrossFit shoe for men has got to be the Metcon 4XD Training Shoe. It’s also the best of the men’s picks that we listed on this page.
This version from the popular Metcon line features a synthetic 3D printed upper, Flywire cables in the lacing system, and “sticky” rubber at the forefoot and outsole for excellent grip on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.
The Flywire technology gives you the locked-down fit you need for weight training, the TPU heel gives you stability for lateral movements, and the Tri-star pattern gives you traction for movement in any direction.
Pros:
- Excellent crosstrainer for any CrossFit workout
- Superior traction and grip
Cons:
- Tighter than previous versions of the Metcon
- Run small
2. Nike Men’s Free 5.0 V6 Training Shoe
We think the best shoe for CrossFit from the Nike Free line is the Nike Men’s Free 5.0 V6 training shoe because it gives you comfort, durability, and flexibility. Not only is this shoe lightweight and excellent for running and other types of cardio, but they also give you the support you need for lifting and lateral movements.
The breathable and durable upper has no-sew overlays for additional support. And, the Flywire technology allows you to adjust the tightness for a snug fit. The stack of the Phylite midsole is exactly where you want it to be for cushioning, as well as durability. And, the grippy rubber outsole on these shoes work well on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.
Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Excellent support and durability
- Grippy rubber outsole works on all surfaces
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained that objects get stuck in the hexagonal flex grooves in the sole
- You will need time to break them in
3. Nike Lunar Fingertrap Men’s Cross Training Shoes
This shoe is both comfortable and functional, and let’s be honest – they look freaking awesome. The Nike Lunar Fingertrap Trainer gives excellent cushioning and has a breathable fit. And, those criss-crossing synthetic bands wrap your foot which allows them to adapt to every movement while optimizing fit and feel.
This shoe combines an interwoven upper with maximum flex, and the heel absorbs impact while you train. Your foot can flex freely thanks to the flex groove outsole design, and the Ortholite sockliner makes these shoes extremely comfortable. If you have wide feet, you should probably put these cross trainers at the top of your list.
Pros:
- Comfortable and flexible
- Criss-crossing bands give maximum support
- Fits wide feet
Cons:
- Run large
- Some reviewers were disappointed with traction
4. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34 Men’s Running Shoes
These are obviously not cross trainers, but if you prefer having one pair of shoes for lifting and another for running and functional movements, then the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34 Men’s Running Shoes are an excellent choice.
You might compare these to some Adidas models since they’re more cardio-centric.
Designed with long-distance runners in mind, the mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable, and the Flywire technology gives these shoes a nice, snug fit and arch support. The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34 features a Fitsole insole which gives both comfort and cushioning. And, you will get that ground feel you want while also getting traction thanks to the raised rubber sections on the outsole.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable with a good fit
- No break-in period necessary
- Comfortable for running long distances
Cons:
- Run narrow
- Not very stable for weightlifting
5. Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF Cross Trainer
If you want a shoe that will help you easily transition from weights to cardio, then you should take a look at the Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF Cross Trainer. This shoe will keep your feet secure and comfortable no matter the WOD, and the cushioning is top of the line.
The synthetic mesh upper is flexible, durable, and breathable, and the Flywire technology in the upper allows you to adjust the fit. There is also cushioning and support from the dual-density foam midsole, and the rugged multidirectional pattern on the outsole gives you the traction you need when you are running and jumping. And, as an added bonus, they also provide excellent ankle support for weightlifting.
Pros:
- Easy transition from weights to cardio
- Comfortable and cushy
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons:
- They run small
- Some reviewers didn’t like the traction on outdoor surfaces
6. Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2
WODs are high-intensity workouts that feature a lot of explosive movements, and that’s exactly what the Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2 is made for. Not only does the sole unit make an excellent base for weightlifting, but these shoes are also lightweight and comfortable for cardio.
These shoes are snug and fit well, but they won’t restrict your movement. And, not only are they supportive, but they are also very stylish.
Pros:
- Comfortable and stylish
- Great for explosive movements
Cons:
- Not as supportive as other Metcons
- Some reviewers said their heel slipped out during their workout
7. Nike Free Metcon Cross Training Shoes
Not only does the Nike Free Metcon have a trendy design, but they are also extremely comfortable and can handle pretty much any WOD you throw at them. These shoes are versatile with an upper that has a snug fit to prevent heel slippage.
However, I should point out that some didn’t like this shoe for weightlifting because the flexible and cushioned midsole didn’t give the support they wanted for heavy loads. But, there are also CrossFitters that love the supportive midsole and the shoe’s flexibility.
If you happen to suffer from plantar fasciitis (AKA policeman’s heel) – which is an inflammation in the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes – then you will be pleasantly surprised by the pain relief this shoe provides.
While this isn’t a great budget shoe, reviewers say the Nike Free Metcon is worth every penny because of its high quality.
Pros:
- High-quality design and comfort
- Supportive midsole
Cons:
- Laces come untied easily
- Not a budget shoe
8. Nike Metcon Repper DSX
While the Metcon 4XD is at the top of our list for Nike CrossFit shoes for men, the Metcon Repper DSX is a close second. One of the most comfortable all-around trainers you can buy, this shoe is true to size and has a flexible sole that provides enough cushion for cardio and running.
At the same time, the Metcon Repper DSX also has a stable platform for lifting weights. With its attractive design and low price, we consider this to be one of the best Nike CrossFit shoes on the market. The only downside is that they don’t last very long because their durability is no match for months of CrossFit WODs.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent for both cardio and weightlifting
- Affordable
Cons:
- Durability isn’t the best, so CrossFit WODs can destroy them in just a few months
- Some say the shoe sits too low, and that can cause it to dig into your ankle
9. Nike Metcon 5
The latest in the Nike Metcon line, the Nike Metcon 5 has already been praised by reviewers for its comfortable and snug fit. And it’s constantly being compared to the most popular Reebok CrossFit shoes.
With its innovative design, the firm heel, wide platform, and flexible forefoot is exactly what CrossFitters need for the variety of exercises in their WODs – from weight lifting to running.
This shoe also features raised sidewalls for protection and grip during rope climbs, and the reinforced tongue and Haptic layer upper has some CrossFitters saying this is the most durable Metcon yet.
The Nike Metcon 5 also has a new traction tread on the outsole for superior grip, and the Hyperlift add-ons are great for squats.
Pros:
- Precise fit and comfort
- Firm heel and flexible forefoot
Cons:
- A lot of reviewers said the line where the soft and hard components of the midsole meet creates a pressure point, and they wish the transition was more gradual
- The large rubber panels make the shoe look and feel “clunky”
Want to know more about Metcon 5? We have a very detailed review that covers the benefits and negatives of this specific model so you can make a better comparison.
10. Nike Women’s Metcon 2 Training Shoe
The Nike Metcon line is also a great choice for female CrossFitters. Not only does the Women’s Metcon 2 Trainer have a synthetic mesh upper, but it also features rubber overlays in the toe area. This makes the upper both breathable and durable, and the toe box is wide, yet surdy.
The reviews for this shoe praise how comfortable and lightweight it is, while the Flywire technology and dual-density foam midsole gives excellent support. This shoe also features a low-profile TCU heel clip for stability, and there are small rubber nubs on the inside and outside of the arch to help grip the rope during rope climbs. The Phylon outsole is thin and has flex grooves to improve flexibility so you can move in any direction easily.
We think this is the best Nike CrossFit shoe option for women because it will maximize your performance while helping you avoid injury.
Pros:
- Breathable, durable, and lightweight
- Maximizes performance for both weightlifting and cardio exercises
Cons:
- Some reviewers didn’t find the shoe comfortable during jumping, burpees, and double unders
- Runs narrow
11. Nike Women’s Free 5.0 Tr Fit 5 Training Shoe
Another good choice for women, the Nike Women’s Free 5.0 TR Fit 5 Trainer is lightweight with excellent ventilation. This shoe is a good choice for both strength training and cardio, and the synthetic upper will keep your feet comfortable during your WODs.
This shoe also features Flywire technology so your foot is snug and stays in place during lateral movements, and the midsole has excellent shock absorption. The material of this shoe is water resistant and windproof, which means they can handle outdoor workouts. And, you will have a hard time finding a CrossFit shoe with a better outsole.
The rubber outsole features pads for improved traction and superb flexibility, while being both durable and grippy.
Pros:
- Superior outsole gives traction and superb flexibility, while being durable and grippy
- Decent choice for strength training and cardio
Cons:
- The toe box needs to be a bit wider
12. Nike Women’s Zoom Fit Training Shoe
This shoe was pretty well built, so it can handle most things in your WOD. There is nylon webbing and sandwich mesh in the upper, and that makes the Nike Women’s Zoom Fit Training Shoe durable, stretchy, breathable, and lightweight.
The perforated tongue and molded foam collar maximizes comfort, and there is also a cushy midsole thanks to the Zoom Air technology. The rubber outsole on this shoe features hexagonal flex grooves in the forefoot for flexibility and grip during your most challenging exercises.
Pros:
- Breathable, durable, and lightweight
- Air Zoom cushioning
Cons:
- Runs narrow
13. Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 Sneaker
If you’re focusing more on lifting, less on running, but don’t want a dedicated lifting shoe, then the Nike Women’s Flex Trainer 9 could work for you.
I have to admit… at this point, we’re scraping the bottom of the barrel in terms of what Nike women’s shoes perform well for CrossFit-style training. Since these are lightweight, flexible, and supply decent traction, doing some clean and jerks and quick sprints back and forth from the row machine shouldn’t be a problem.
However, these wouldn’t do well for things like box jumps or other aggressive plyometrics like that. They just don’t have the support. Otherwise, they’re a pretty good athletic shoe.
Pros:
- Good traction
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons:
- Don’t last long for high-impact training
Best Nike CrossFit Shoes Summary
| Category | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Nike Metcon 4 XD | Check Price |
| Best for Women | Nike Women’s Metcon 2 | Check Price |
| Best Lightweight | Nike Men's Free 5.0 V6 | Check Price |
There you have it. These are the 13 best Nike CrossFit shoes that we found and we wanted to make sure you understood the picks that we made. And even though these are more shoes than you’ll most likely ever wear, we have our top 3 picks that should make your selection a little easier.
For men, we recommend the Nike Metcon 4XD Training Shoe because of its versatility and lockdown. For women, the Nike Metcon 2 is a great choice because of the nice wide toe box and sturdy construction. Finally, we think the best lightweight sneakers are the Nike Men’s Free 5.0 V6 Training Shoes since they keep you quick on your feet.
