Best Overall CrossFit Shoe

Nike Metcon 8

View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Roadrunnersports.com

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 12.4 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 4 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for strength training, although we think these versatile sneakers would also work for a variety of other studio workouts, such as bungee fitness.

Why We Love Them

With a more breathable upper and better heel stability than the previous model, Nike's Metcon 8 Training Shoes have quickly become our favorite pair for CrossFit. We love the thoughtful design elements, like hook-and-loop tab locks to keep the laces bundled up and handstand clips at the heels for wall exercises, that make these easy to wear for most workouts. Plus, the rubber outsole extends up the sides of your arches for extra traction during rope climbs.

During testing, the Metcon 8 performed above and beyond our expectations. We noticed that they feel super stable through the heel, but also flexible in the forefoot, thanks to deep grooves in the outsole. Even when we worked up a sweat, the mesh upper comfortably hugged our feet while allowing air to flow. With superior arch support and light foam cushioning throughout the midsole, this shoe is our favorite pair for everything from strength training to studio sessions.

Available in a range of bright and neutral colors to match almost any workout wardrobe, the Metcon 8 is by far our favorite CrossFit shoe on the market right now. If you're a fan of the Metcon 7, we highly recommend giving this updated pair a try.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Nike. The fit is small, so Nike recommends going a half-size up from your regular size.

Potential Flaws

• We noted in testing that the shoe could be more responsive—the cushioning doesn't feel very springy or bouncy underfoot.
• This shoe is one of the heavier pairs on our list.

Best Budget

Ryka Influence Cross-Training Shoe

$100

$70 at Amazon $107 at Catherines.com $107 at Shoesforall.com

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh and faux leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 7.2 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 6 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for cross-training, especially if you have wide feet.

Why We Love Them

If you're in need of new CrossFit shoes but don't want to spend a fortune, Ryka's Influence Training Shoes are our top pick. With a narrow heel and plenty of arch support, they offer a close fit. We also love that, on top of the wide toe box, they're available in two widths to give your feet plenty of room to breathe.

The Influence Training Shoe features a foam midsole to cushion push-offs and landings, while the rubber outsole provides great traction to prevent slipping while you train. We especially love the built-in pivot point, a circular spot underneath the ball of the foot that helps you change directions quickly. For a budget-friendly CrossFit shoe, we think this one checks all the boxes.

Potential Flaws

• A few wearers have found that these cross-trainers don't feel very soft or squishy underfoot, meaning the midsole may be too firm for some.

Best for Jumping

Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes

$150

$64 at Amazon $150 at Dicks Sporting Goods

Key Specs

Materials: Textile and synthetic upper, textile lining, textile insole, foam midsole, synthetic outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 12 ounces Sizes: 4 to 16.5 Drop: 7 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who They're For

Best for plyometric workouts.

Why We Love Them

For box jumps, jump lunges, and more, we recommend Reebok's Nano X3. Although we haven't tested the X3 yet, we have worn the previous model (Reebok's Nano X2), which has many of the same features. Both sneakers have a sleek, vintage-inspired design and a breathable knit upper for better airflow, which we appreciated during testing.

When it comes to new features, the X3 has an added dome-shaped piece underneath the heel that compresses under heavy loads to create a flat, stable base for lifting. Then, when you're on the move, the piece softens to provide the responsive feeling you need to run and jump with ease—perfect for crushing those jump rope workouts. We also like that this updated model has a wide toe box and lots of flex underneath the forefoot. Choose from a wide range of color combinations in sizes 4 to 16.5.

Potential Flaws

• Like the Nano X2, these run large, so you may want to order a half size down from your usual.
• The Nano X3 is significantly heavier than the X2, with about 4 ounces of extra weight.

Best for Running

Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoe

$190

$85 at Amazon

$190

$85 at Shoebacca.com

Key Specs

Materials: Textile upper with recycled plastic and recycled polyester, textile lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 9.1 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 10 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They're For

Best for runners who don't have the budget to invest in separate shoes for daily training and CrossFit.

Why We Love Them

When your WoD is more about running and sprinting than jumping or climbing, Adidas' Ultraboost Light Running Shoe is our top pick. This newest version in the Ultraboost line is 30% lighter than previous models, meaning it won't drag you down on your runs. And with a tall, well-padded heel counter, you can train confidently without worrying about uncomfortable blisters slowing you down.

In testing, we noticed that the midsole is thick and well-cushioned, with extra padding underneath the heel. Adidas notes that air bubbles throughout the foam midsole provide extra bounce—which we also confirmed during testing. The Ultraboost Light feels highly responsive underfoot, with ultra-smooth transitions and a design that propels you forward with each step. Versatile and well-designed, these sneakers are an ideal hybrid between a technical running sneaker and a stable CrossFit shoe.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Adidas.

Potential Flaws

• We found these run slightly small—you may want to order at least a half-size up from your usual for the right fit.
• These are one of the pricier pairs of CrossFit shoes on our list. However, we think the investment is worth it for runners who need shoes that can pull double duty on cross-training days.

Best for Narrow Feet

Puma Fuse 2.0 Training Shoes

$58 at Amazon

Key Specs

Materials: Textile upper, textile lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: Not listed Sizes: 5 to 11 Drop: 4 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for anyone with neutral arches, especially if you have narrow feet.

Why We Love Them

We love that Puma's Fuse 2.0 Training Shoes have a rounded toe box that allows your digits to spread out without compromising on a close fit for narrow feet. With a shock-absorbing foam midsole, heel clips, and rubber sidewalls, this pair has all the features you need in a dependable CrossFit shoe. It's also worth noting that the upper is made with a single piece of strong mesh, for better durability and stability during lateral movements.

Like Nike's Metcon 8 Training Shoes, these sneakers have deep grooves in the outsole that flex and move with your feet. We also like that the Fuse 2.0 has removable footbeds, so you can add your own orthotics or insoles for more support if you need to. This is especially important if you over- or underpronate, since these sneakers are designed for wearers with neutral arches.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Puma.

Potential Flaws

• Some wearers have found that the Fuse 2.0 runs small—you may want to consider ordering a half-size up from your usual.
  

Best for Wide Feet

New Balance Minimus TR

$130

$85 at Amazon

$120

$84 at Zappos

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh, rubber Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 6 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 0 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for exercisers who like a zero-drop shoe, especially if you have wide feet.

Why We Love Them

If you prefer a minimalist shoe but have trouble finding a pair that fits wide feet, New Balance's Minimus TR is our top pick. It comes in two widths and has no heel-to-toe drop, for a solid, stable base that will support you through heavy lifts. We also like that the flat outsole provides even pressure throughout your feet to help you balance.

This shoe's CrossFit-friendly features include rubber rope guards at the midfoot and heel clips, plus a soft lining that allows you to slip them on without socks. Similar to Puma's Fuse 2.0 Training Shoes, the Minimus TR also has a rounded toe box that won't cramp your toes. Weighing just 6 ounces, this pair is very lightweight and breathable—for a sneaker so comfortable, you might forget you're wearing it.

Potential Flaws

• Some wearers have found that these shoes run small—considering ordering one size up from your usual for the right fit.
  

Best for Everyday Wear

Nike Women's Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes

$120 at Dicks Sporting Goods

$120

$109 at Nike.com $85 at Stockx.com

Key Specs

Materials: Foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 10 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 6.4 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for anyone who hates lugging multiple pairs of shoes back and forth from the gym, particularly if you need a shoe with great ankle support.

Why We Love Them

Stylish enough for everyday wear, Nike's Free Metcon 5 also performs well during your toughest workouts. Lace them up and you’ll feel lightweight support and flexibility, thanks to deep grooves in the rubber outsole. For added stability to carry you through strength training sessions, a wide, flat heel helps promote a solid stance.

We like that the rubber outsole wraps up high around the Metcon 5's heels, providing added support so you can perform the dynamic moves in CrossFit workouts without putting extra stress on your feet. But what truly sets this sneaker apart is the webbing in the upper that works with the laces to lock your foot in for a snug fit. There's also additional foam padding around the collar, for stellar ankle support that some other shoes on our list lack.

Also available in men's sizes at Dick's Sporting Goods and Academy.

Potential Flaws

• Some exercisers note that this shoe has a wider toe box that's better for wide feet. If you have narrow feet, it may feel too spacious inside.
  

Best With Ankle Support

No Bull High Top Trainer+

View on Nobullproject.com

Key Specs

Materials: Fabric upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 12 ounces Sizes: 5 to 11 Drop: 4 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for anyone with weak ankles, especially if you like the look of a high-top shoe.

Why We Love Them

Unstable ankles? NoBull's High Top Trainer+ has you covered. The high-top design has padding in the heel, collar, and tongue for extra support, while a wide toe box and low heel-to-toe drop make it easy to find a stable base. We also appreciate that the foam midsole was created to absorb high-impact forces and cushion your feet during long periods of standing.

The High Top Trainer+'s tough fabric upper is specially designed to be abrasion-resistant—adding to its stable feeling. Plus, this pair is super durable, with a water-repellent coating, sidewall guards, and rubber toe bumpers for protection from heavy weights or others' feet. An added bonus? Like Nike's Free Metcon 5 Training Shoes, these have webbing throughout the lace system for better stability.

Also available in men's sizes at No Bull.

Potential Flaws

• Since these shoes come higher up your ankles, they're heavier than most other pairs on our list.
• Some wearers have found that they run small, so consider ordering a half- or full-size up from your usual.
  

Best for Stability

Under Armour Project Rock 6

View on Amazon $150 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Underarmour.com

Key Specs

Materials: Foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 11 ounces Sizes: 5 to 12 Drop: 6 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for beginner to intermediate exercisers who need a strong, stable base for lifting.

Why We Love Them

Under Armour's Project Rock 6 Training Shoes are our top pick for stability because they have a snug upper for a close, secure fit. Unlike many of our other top picks, this shoe comes higher up your ankle for a bootie-like fit, adding support without compromising on flexibility. Plus, a triangle-shaped piece built into the outsole evenly distributes weight during heavy lifts for a more grounded feeling.

We also like that the heel clips wrap around the shoe, connecting to the laces to lock your feet in. Thick foam cushioning in the midsole helps reduce impact, while rubber toe caps provide great grip during planks. For a stability-forward shoe, we think this one checks all the boxes.

Also available in men's sizes at Dick's Sporting Goods and Under Armour.

Potential Flaws

• These shoes are pricier than most others on our list, although we think you get what you pay for in terms of thoughtful design and construction.
• The Project Rock 6 Training Shoes have a thicker, bulkier sole that may not be for everyone.
  

Best Minimalist

Altra Solstice XT 2

$173 at Amazon $130 at Zappos View on Marathonsports.com

Key Specs

Materials: Textile and synthetic upper, textile lining and insole, foam midsole, rubber outsole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Weight: 8.3 ounces Sizes: 5.5 to 12 Drop: 0 millimeters

Who They're For

Best for intermediate to advanced exercisers with neutral arches.

Why We Love Them

If you like a minimalist shoe, Altra's Solstice XT 2 is our top pick. The wide toe box offers a roomy feel, while the flat outsole enables you to feel the ground. In CrossFit, this is key for pushing through your feet when you’re doing deadlifts or squats.

We like that the XT 2's upper is designed with rubber overlays to provide firmer lateral support than the previous model, so you can complete agility drills with ease. Cushioning throughout the entire midsole makes it easy to stay balanced, while grooves in the outsole allow the shoe to move with you through speed work. Designed for exercisers with neutral arches, this is a solid, zero-drop shoe you can trust to carry you through long training sessions.

Also available in men's sizes at Zappos and Altra.

Potential Flaws

• Some wearers have found that the shoelaces are fairly short and may need to be re-tied between sets.