If you are looking for a shoe to enhance both your CrossFit and weightlifting abilities while also providing multi-directional stability and CrossFit-inspired grip, the Nike Metcon may be the ideal shoe for you.
After its initial release in 2015, Nike has successfully adapted and modified the Metcon to provide athletes with greater power, agility, and stability with each new model.
Nike’s consistent yearly development of the Metcon, highlighting the various needs of CrossFit athletes, makes the Metcon one of the top shoe options for those serious about CrossFit.
Review Rundown
Here’s our quick rundown of the Nike Metcon 5, but keep reading if you want the full story.
- Rating: 9/10
- Very stable due to heel clip and Hyperlift technologies
- Sticky rubber creates great traction
- Modified rope wrap improves rope climbing
- Some users found them bulky and stiff
About Nike
Nike was initially founded by Bill Bowerman, a track and field coach at the University of Oregon, and Phil Knight, one of his athletes, in 1964. Originally named “Blue Ribbon Sports,” the business endeavor began as a distribution source for a Japanese shoe brand.
In 1971, seven years after its creation and with sales skyrocketing, Blue Ribbon Sports transitioned away from shoe distribution and began developing its own products, branded with its new “Swoosh” logo. Thus, Nike was born.
By the 21st century, Nike had stores in over 170 countries worldwide and successfully expanded its inventory by adding brand-inspired clothing as well as more sports and fitness-related equipment. Nike has since developed partnerships with world-renowned athletes and sports teams and has become a driving force in the sports and fitness industries.
Though Reebok became the first major sports brand to affiliate with CrossFit, Nike soon began its quest to target CrossFit athletes and convert them to Nike customers. Nike released its first CrossFit-inspired shoe, the Metcon, five years ago and has since begun creating partnerships with current CrossFit athletes.
Related: Nike Metcon vs Reebok Nano: CrossFit Shoe Faceoff
What are Nike Metcons?
The first Nike Metcon training shoes were introduced by Nike in 2015 as a shoe targeting functional fitness and CrossFit athletes. Since its introduction, Nike has released four subsequent models of the Metcon, developed for and tested by Nike’s own top CrossFit athletes.
With each new release, Nike seeks to up its game and satisfy its customer base, targeting more CrossFit-specific exercises and striving to give customers a quality product designed to last.
We actually formed an expansive list of the best Nike CrossFit shoes to help you improve your workout performance.
The most recent model, Metcon 5 was released globally in July 2019 and has the following much-desired CrossFit shoe characteristics, according to an official Nike press release:
- Enhancement of specialized grip targeting rope climbing
- Heel width ideal for performing heavy Olympic lifts
- Flexible forefoot for increased comfort and protection
- Rubberized sole developed for greater traction and stability
- Greater lift for improved stability during heavy lifts
Nike Metcon Details & Features
While many Metcon models are similar in some fashion, each Metcon model has unique features designed for different CrossFit and exercise methods. Below are brief overviews of each of the five Metcon designs and the consensus of buyers for each.
Metcon (Original)
The original Metcon design (2015) was Nike’s official entrance into the competitive CrossFit world. This model was engineered to target basic CrossFit exercises and improve performance of the average CrossFit athlete.
Features of this model include:
- Forefoot grooves for traction during forward movement
- Rubberized midsoles for grip when rope climbing
- Flat, firm heels for stability when performing heavy lifts
- Drop-in midsoles for shock absorption
- Flywire cables for midfoot lockdown and stability
- Breathable mesh upper
This model received decent reviews from buyers interested in seeing where Nike’s relationship with CrossFit athletes would go. Many have noted the adequate stability and support provided by the shoe and appreciated the color options offered by Nike.
Metcon 2
Nike’s second attempt at a CrossFit shoe came with the release of the Metcon 2 (2016), designed with the input of professional CrossFit athletes. This model was constructed to target, according to Nike, “a little bit of everything,” related to CrossFit and functional fitness.
Features of this model include:
- Flexible rubber grooves for HIIT and weightlifting
- Midfoot cage for improved stability
- Sock-like fit
- Flexible rubber sole
- Lightweight design
- Firm, cushioned midsole for lower body stability
Many saw the Metcon 2 as a better solution for CrossFit athletes, as compared to the original model. Generally, many perceived the new design as comparable to a lightweight running shoe that hugged the foot snugly with its sock-like fit.
Some noted a squeaky noise associated with the shoe while others mentioned that the shoe would be less than ideal for heavy lifting, suggesting the shoe for more moderate weightlifting exercises.
Metcon 3
The Metcon 3 (2017) was developed for CrossFit athletes focused on implemented more HIIT into their exercise regimen. This model highlights quick maneuvers involving speed, agility, and power.
Features of this model include:
- Sock-like fit
- Flexible Flyknit upper
- Forefoot flex grooves for enhanced stability
- Firm rubber heel for balance
- Synthetic reinforcement in toe and lateral regions
The Metcon 3 continued the pattern of receiving greater reviews from its budding customer base. A majority of purchasers recognized the shoe’s ability to withstand a larger variety of training styles, thus speaking for the increased versatility of the shoe.
While many users were generally pleased with the construction of the shoe, some felt as if the rope grips were inadequate and did not live up to the expectations for the average CrossFit shoe.
Metcon 4
The Metcon 4 (2018) was created with more multi-directional movements and agility in mind.
Features of this model include:
- Designed for improved lateral stability and forward traction
- Rubberized outsoles and midfoot for rope climbing
- Drop-in midsoles for shock absorption
- Heel clip stabilization
- Breathable Flywire upper
The Metcon 4 is Nike’s highest rated CrossFit shoe as of 2020. Many users praised the durability of the shoe and its effectiveness as a CrossFit shoe. Also noted was the impressive level of stability and comfort provided to users.
Though many enjoyed the addition of the Metcon 4 to Nike’s CrossFit line, some reported blistering on the heel as well as squeaking sounds, which were also reported in the Metcon 3.
Metcon 5
Nike’s most recent model of this shoe, the Metcon 5 (2019), was designed specifically to handle an extensive number of WOD exercises.
Features of this model include:
- Wider and lower heel
- Heel clip for stabilization during lateral movements
- Durable sticky rubber
- Removable inserts for more offset when lifting heavy
- Durable rubber midsole for rope climbing (and sliding)
3 Benefits of Nike Metcon 5
As the brand continues to release newer models of the Metcon seeking to create the best Nike CrossFit shoes for men and women, a few common themes seem to carry over from one model to the next. Given the consistency between models and upgrades made to these common threads, these qualities are also the major strengths of this shoe.
1. Stability
The design of the Metcon 5 implements several new and distinguished features targeting stability and balance.
The wider and firmer heel will provide you with a wider base when performing deadlifts, squats, and other heavy stationary lifts. Additionally, the cushioned tongue will increase tightness of the shoe around your foot and offer ample security within the shoe during all CrossFit movements.
Nike has continued to include its heel clip technology in each model, and the Metcon 5 is no different. The heel clip remains unchanged from the Metcon 4 and will lock your heel into place for exercises where lower body stability is required.
New to this model is a removable Hyperlift insert that, depending on your preference, can be used to increase your lift and provide stability when your WOD includes heavy lifts and stability exercises.
2. Traction & Grip
As Nike continues to release Metcon designs on a yearly basis, one of the major consistent upgrades made is in its grip.
Each area of the Metcon 5 outsole and midsole has been modeled specially for improved traction and reduced wear and tear.
Whether you’re sprinting, pushing sleds, or performing any other high power movement, the new outsole pattern is sure to improve your performance. The forefoot is now composed of a stickier rubber designed to increase traction and the heel has been modified to be more durable to withstand more high impact activity.
Rope climbing is also greatly improved with the modified rope wrap, now encasing a larger surface area with a pattern that promotes greater traction. Whether you’re climbing or descending, this unique grip is ideal to simplify the experience and improve performance.
3. WOD-Focused
Nike’s development and release of the Metcon 5 surrounded around the idea of assisting with performance during WODs. This shoe was specifically designed for the dedicated CrossFit athlete looking to perform longer, better, and stronger.
Each of the adjustments made to the Metcon 5 were created with specific WOD exercises in mind. Whether you’re performing wall balls, snatches, rowing, or handstand push-ups, you can expect that your shoes will easily withstand the exercises and even help you maximize your abilities.
2 Negatives of Nike Metcon 5
Though the Metcon 5 has received generally positive feedback from purchasers, some were dissatisfied with their purchase. With the rave reviews received by the Metcon 4, many users likely expected an even greater CrossFit shoe than the previous model and were disappointed when their needs were not met adequately.
1. Construction Issues
While the goals of the Metcon 5 were clear when constructing the shoe, Nike’s actual construction of the shoe did not fully meet the standards of some.
A few users referenced the insole of the shoe, both firm and soft in different areas, being uncomfortable and giving the feeling that there was something stuck in their shoe. While this may not seem like a deal breaker for you personally, it is important to consider the sensitivity, natural arch, and shape of your feet before deciding on purchasing the Metcon 5.
Additionally, many have noted that, after several uses, the lacking durability of the shoe became clear.
There are some reports of fabric and rubber detaching from the shoe shortly after purchase. It is unclear whether exercise type, length, and intensity played a role in these experiences and you should consider these factors first.
2. Bulky design
With each new additional feature added to the Metcon comes a downside, and unfortunately for athletes wearing the Metcon 5, this can be viewed as significant.
Though the enhanced grip and stabilizing features undoubtedly promote greater performance, they also make the shoe look and feel bulky to users. The Metcon 5 is definitely not an appropriate shoe for those seeking a more minimalist design, but should not be an issue if you are focused on weightlifting.
While the bulky design could affect performance during speed and endurance activities, it should not be much of an issue when doing stationary weightlifting exercises.
Final Recommendation
| Review | Nike Metcon Shoes |
|---|---|
| Summary | Nike Metcon 5 are prominent cross-training sneakers that were designed to optimize performance during CrossFit training workouts. These shoes feature a heel clip and Hyperlift tech to improve stability, a sticky rubber outsole for better traction and grip, and even a modified rope wrap for advanced rope climbing support. In some cases, these shoes might be considered too bulky and require a break-in period until they develop their full comfort potential. However, they're very high-quality shoes that justify their moderate price point for training shoes. |
| Author | Kyle Hoffman |
| Rating | 9 (out of 10) |
The thoughtful construction of the Nike Metcon 5 makes this model one of Nike’s most effective CrossFit shoe to date and makes Nike a newly emerging contender for dependable CrossFit footwear.
Based on user reviews, the Metcon 5 is an appropriate shoe if you are looking for a shoe targeting lower body stability, balance, and traction during your WOD. This shoe is highly effective for a variety of training exercises and methods, whether they are power, endurance, or strength based.
If you like to personalize your workouts and include greater lift to assist with exercises like squats and overhead presses, this shoe would meet your needs. This feature is unique amongst the other Metcon models and definitely allows the Metcon 5 to differentiate itself from prior models.
See the Amazon user reviews for Nike Metcon 5.
This particular model would not be ideal for those with sensitive feet, as the midsole and insole may be uncomfortable due to the varying firmness levels. Also, if you are searching for a minimalist, low-profile shoe, this would not be an ideal match for you.
While the Metcon 5 demonstrates Nike’s goal of catering to the CrossFit athlete, the Metcon 4 is likely a better solution and is more highly regarded as a CrossFit shoe. Talk of the Metcon 6 is ongoing and many users are excited to see how Nike will improve the shoe to provide a more comfortable, durable CrossFit experience.
