For most people the Nike Metcon 9 is the one to buy: it is the best balance of comfort, performance and value in this group. If it is not quite right for you, the Reebok Nano X4 is the strong runner-up that suits a slightly different stride or budget.
Choosing a training shoe online is hard because every brand calls its foam responsive and every model is the most cushioned yet. What actually matters is a much shorter list, and we have done the legwork so you can skip straight to the pick that fits how you move.
Below are the options that consistently rise to the top across independent lab measurements and large pools of verified owner reviews. We have grouped them by the job each one does best, so you can jump to the right pick rather than reading all six.
Quick comparison
The picks, in detail
Nike Metcon 9
The benchmark CrossFit and lifting trainer: flat, stable heel for lifts, durable for everything else.
- Rock-solid lifting base
- Very durable
- Versatile for WODs
- Stiff for running
- Heavy
Reebok Nano X4
Reebok's all-day CrossFit trainer: stable for lifts yet flexible enough for cardio.
- Stable and flexible
- Comfortable all day
- Good rope grip
- Average for heavy lifts
- Narrow
Under Armour TriBase Reign 6
A grippy, ground-hugging trainer with a wide, stable base for serious lifters.
- Excellent ground contact
- Stable for lifting
- Durable
- Stiff
- Warm
NOBULL Trainer+
A minimalist, durable CrossFit trainer with a tough SuperFabric upper and flat base.
- Very durable upper
- Stable flat base
- Good rope grip
- Firm, minimal cushion
- Stiff
Nike Free Metcon 6
A more flexible hybrid trainer for HIIT and gym days with lighter lifting.
- Flexible for cardio/HIIT
- Comfortable
- Light
- Less stable for heavy lifts
- Less durable
Inov-8 F-Lite G 300
A graphene-soled functional trainer balancing grip, stability, and durability for varied workouts.
- Grippy graphene outsole
- Stable and durable
- Versatile
- Firm
- Niche brand availability
How to choose
- Stability for lifting. A flat, firm, wide base keeps you grounded under load. Avoid soft, tall running foam for heavy lifts.
- Flexibility for cardio. HIIT and class work need some forefoot flex; pure lifting shoes feel stiff for jumping and running.
- Durability. Rope climbs, burpees and box jumps destroy weak uppers, so look for reinforced, tough materials.
- Versatility. If you do mixed workouts, a do-it-all trainer beats a specialist. Match the shoe to your main activity.
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Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Can I run in training shoes?
Short cardio bursts are fine, but training and lifting shoes have firm, flat soles that feel harsh over longer runs. Use a running shoe for real mileage.
Lifting shoes vs flat trainers?
Raised-heel lifting shoes help squat depth and Olympic lifts. Flat, stable trainers suit deadlifts, CrossFit and general gym work better.
Is the Nike Metcon 9 worth it?
For most buyers, yes. The Nike Metcon 9 earned our top spot for offering the best overall balance in this group, which is why it is our first recommendation.
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