Few people do CrossFit casually — either you've never done it, or you live for it. The workouts, as described by the founder, are "constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity." And the Workouts of the Day (or WODs) blend functional movements from various sports, such as gymnastics, weightlifting, running, rowing, and more. Because the exercise routines are constantly changing, CrossFit requires a shoe that's just as dynamic.
You’ll likely want a CrossFit shoe that's flexible, supportive, and durable at the same time, so you can perform at high levels with less risk of injury. “Cross training shoes feature some of the elements you’d find in weightlifting shoes: increased heel height, wider soles, more structured materials, and a decrease in arch support,” says Ariel Osharenko, a physical therapist and Level 1 CrossFit coach. Those features help you stand taller and stay rooted to the ground while using weights, which protect you from lower back injuries, Osharenko explains.
While CrossFit trainers are heavier than your average running shoes, “they tend to be more lightweight than weightlifting shoes to allow for better transfer of forces from the ground up as you jump or lift weights,” says Osharenko. Like running shoes, they also allow for “increased range of motion in the ankle and foot,” she says, which is an important factor to keep in mind considering the high-intensity, explosive movements you might find in a WOD (think box jumps or burpees).
Of course, choosing a shoe is a personal decision, and if you’re not sure what would work best for you, talk to a trainer or physical therapist to see how your physical history and current injuries, mobility, and overall performance and fitness levels may affect your choice.
In the meantime, we've rounded up the top CrossFit training shoes, so you can spend less time researching and more time getting in shape with your #fitfam.
From box jumps to kettlebell swings, power cleans to rope climbs, you'll need a shoe that has your back. Nike's Metcon features a flexible yet strong platform with a low, wide heel to help you feel connected to the ground, and a grippy outside so you'll perform at top speed during sprints.
This fifth-generation shoe also features a removable Hyperlift insert that will help improve your stability for squats, wall balls, and thrusters. And that textured print on the upper isn’t just stylish — it adds lightweight durability to the shoe, so it can withstand any grueling WOD.
Reebok is the official partner and sponsor of CrossFit, so it's no surprise their shoes are exactly what the athletes want (and demand). Reebok made this update with a newly engineered version of the Flexweave upper — it's even more flexible, breathable, and durable than previous versions, so it performs better over the long haul.
The midsole has just a 4-millimeter drop from heel to toe, creating a super stable platform for heavier lifts. Reebok has also added midsole cushioning designed to absorb impact during short runs, making this the most runnable version of the shoe to date.
Strength training? Perfect. Short runs? No problem. New Balance’s new Minimus Prevail is super versatile. The running shoe-inspired cushioned midsole is made from foam that’s 30% lighter than traditional foams, and the upper is knit with fibers that provide lightweight stability and support, especially for sharp, quick lateral movements.
Like other New Balance trainers, there’s a 4-millimeter drop from heel to toe combined with a Vibram outsole that grips like a hiking shoe for ultimate stability while you’re lifting.
If you haven't heard of inov-8, catch up! Their shoes are gaining steam in the CrossFit scene, as they're a super versatile cross-training pair loved by both men and women.
The super dense heel gives you more support for power lifting, the grippy outsole lets you change directions at the drop of a hat and grip ropes like a monkey, and the toe bumper improves durability to increase the life of the shoes. Go ahead — push your limits with every workout.
The beauty of CrossFit is that it’s not just one type of workout. These NOBULL trainers are designed to stand up to literally anything you’ll encounter in your Box (because they were designed by CrossFitters, who know exactly what to expect).
The flexible upper is made from a durable, breathable, and abrasion-resistant seamless fabric (translation: You’ll see no holes from endless rope climbs). And the outsoles were designed to be worn inside and outside, with traction for sprint efforts and plenty of support for lifting heavy weights.
These training shoes fit like your favorite around-the-house socks thanks to a seamless interior sleeve construction that removes the traditional sneaker “tongue” and nixes the pressure points that can cause blisters. The midsole features a crisscross pattern that promotes multidirectional adaptability — a major plus, since CrossFit is all about speed and agility.
You’ll also find the same comfy rearfoot GEL cushioning system in these as in all ASICS’ running shoes. Here, though, it’s strategically placed to provide extra support and stability rather than absorb impact and propel you forward.
While this trainer isn't specifically designed for CrossFit, it does have a wider toe box, which gives the foot room to spread and better root into the ground — a necessity for lifting.
And besides the basics (a breathable mesh upper, a cushioning insole, a durable outsole), there's one thing that sets Ryka shoes apart: They're designed specifically for a woman's foot. That means there's a narrower heel, increased instep volume, and a more secure footbed — all of which reduce instability and the risk of injury.
Are these meant for a Box, or for looking boss in and out of the gym? You decide; either way, you'll be totally prepared. Billed as a shoe for the "everyday workout warrior," these come with a stretch mesh frame to promote flexibility and airflow (let those toes breathe!), and leather overlays to provide structure and stability.
And even though these look super tough — complete with durable Rope Ready Zones for extra grip — there's an OrthoLite insole that guarantees comfort.
When CrossFit is life, you'll eventually want a shoe that's specifically designed for weight-training days.
These lifting shoes from Adidas were designed to root you into the ground when lifting; the breathable woven upper is reinforced from the inside for extra support, and the combo of laces and a strap locks down your midfoot while still allowing your toes to move naturally. Underneath your foot, non-compressive foam provides even more stability.
Ashley MateoAshley Mateo is a writer, editor, and UESCA- and RRCA-certified running coach who has contributed to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Women's Health, Health, Shape, Self, and more.
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