13 Best Nike Men’s CrossFit Workout Shoes for 2020
If you are heading to your local box in the New Year, you are going to need a good CrossFit shoe that can handle all of the exercises in your WOD. There are a ton of options to choose from in the marketplace, and today we are going to focus on the 13 best Nike men’s CrossFit workout shoes that should optimize your training performance.
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In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick!
Nike Metcon 4 XD
- Top of the line performance and comfort
- Stable for weightlifting, lateral movements
- Ultimate traction for movement on any surface in any direction
Quick Rankings
| Rank | Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |
 Nike Metcon 4 XD |
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| #2 |
 Nike Free x Metcon |
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| #3 |
 Nike Metcon 5 |
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| #4 |
 Nike Metcon Sport |
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| #5 |
 Nike Metcon Repper DSX |
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| #6 |
 Nike Metcon 3 |
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| #7 |
 Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2 |
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| #8 |
 Nike Free x Metcon 2 |
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| #9 |
 Nike Metcon Flyknit 3 |
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| #10 |
 Nike Lunar Fingertrap |
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| #11 |
 Nike Metcon 5 Utility (UT) |
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| #12 |
 Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF |
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| #13 |
 Nike Men’s Fs Lite Trainer 4 |
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1. Nike Metcon 4 XD
We’ve talked before about how much we love the Nike Metcon 4 XD, and this shoe tops our list when it comes to the best Nike Men’s CrossFit workout shoes. CrossFitters rave about this shoe’s performance in the box, and at the same time, the shoe is extremely comfortable and supportive.
The Nike Metcon 4 XD features an updated Haptic print upper that provides durability and stability, while the Flywire technology gives you a locked-down fit. The rubber sole of the shoe is large, flat, and firm, which gives you ultimate stability and balance for weightlifting exercises like squats.
This lightweight shoe also has a drop-in midsole that allows the shoe to conform to your foot for a stable fit and feel. The stability from the TPU heel counter is exactly what you want when doing side lunges and shuttle drills, and the tri-star pattern gives you traction for movement in any direction and on any surface – even a wet gym floor.
Not only are these shoes top of the line when it comes to performance, but they are also extremely stylish. The Nike Metcon 4 XD comes in a variety of colors, and you will probably find yourself getting compliments regularly when you wear them.
Pros:
- Top of the line performance and comfort
- Stable for weightlifting, lateral movements
- Ultimate traction for movement on any surface in any direction
Cons:
- Tighter than previous versions of the Metcon
- Run small
- The heel section sits low, causing some reviewers to complain about blisters
2. Nike Free x Metcon
The lightweight design of the Nike Free x Metcon was made for intense CrossFit workouts. It features a snug, TPU-faced mesh upper to give you flexibility and comfort, while also providing durability, stability, and flexibility.
The dual-density midsole has cold-fusion technology for maximum comfort and support, and at the same time reviewers were impressed by how versatile this shoe is. From functional movements to weightlifting, this shoe can handle anything in the box.
The laser-siped flex grooves on the outsole were designed to promote natural motion, which makes them extremely flexible. And, if you suffer from plantar fasciitis (policeman’s heel), these shoes will relieve that pain.
These shoes have a trendy design, so you might find yourself wearing them outside the box. However, some people have complained about how easy the shoelaces come untied. A few people also said that the flexible and cushioned midsole just didn’t provide enough support for heavy weightlifting loads.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable
- Durable, stable, and flexible
- High-quality design
Cons:
- Not budget-friendly, but worth the price
- Shoes come untied easily
3. Nike Metcon 5
The Nike Metcon 5 is the newest version of the Metcon, and it just might be Nike’s most stable and durable version yet. They provide stability for heavy lifting, and traction for multi-directional movement. There is also a Hyperlift insert, which Nike says makes the Metcon 5 a “secret weapon” for both weightlifting, squats, and high-impact training.
For rope climbing, the enhanced grip directional traction on the outsole wraps the side of the shoe, which allows you to grip the rope going up, and gives you speed on your way down. The cushioning foam on the heel gives a secure feel, and the soft forefoot cushions your feet during high-impact moves.
Reviewers love the reinforced tongue and the Haptic layer on the upper, which makes them even more durable. We should point out one major complaint from a few reviewers, which has to do with the midsole. The line where the soft and hard components meet creates a pressure point, and some reviewers wished the transition between the two components was more gradual to prevent that.
Pros:
- Precise fit and maximum comfort
- Excellent stability for heavy lifting and multi-directional movement
- Enhanced grip directional traction for rope climbing
Cons:
- Midsole transition creates a pressure point that some reviewers didn’t like
- The large rubber panels make them look and feel “clunky”
4. Nike Metcon Sport
Another extremely comfortable option, the Nike Metcon Sport was built for weightlifting and speed drills. The stretchy sleeve of the shoe allows you to put them on and take them off easily, and the no-lace design is popular because it holds your foot securely and gives a secure lockdown.
The synthetic skins at the toe and heel make this shoe extremely durable, and the drop-in midsole gives more lateral stability. The word “perfect” often comes up in reviews for this shoe because it works so well for every exercise in the box – especially weightlifting.
This version of the Metcon is the first to come with a slip-on cleatie and a velcro closure, and CrossFitters love that style.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable
- No-lace, slip-on cleatie design
- “Perfect” for every exercise in the box
Cons:
- The velcro strap does stretch out over time, which makes them difficult to tighten
5. Nike Metcon Repper DSX
The Nike Metcon Repper DSX is a flexible and cushioned shoe that will keep your feet extremely comfortable during the running and cardio portion of your CrossFit workouts. And, they also have a stable platform for weightlifting.
The mesh upper features synthetic overlays for durability, and the super-strong Flywire cables and laces will give you that lock down fit and feel. And, the solid rubber outsole have an aggressive traction pattern for excellent grip.
These shoes run true to size, and the stylish design comes in a number of different colors. If you can find these shoes in your size, the price is generally pretty reasonable for a shoe in the Metcon line.
Pros:
- Flexible and cushioned for comfort during running and cardio
- Stable platform for weightlifting
- Aggressive traction pattern for excellent grip
Cons:
- Some reviewers said the shoe dug into their ankle because it sat too low
- Not as durable as other shoes in the Metcon line. Some reviewers said they rip at the seams after a few months of use
6. Nike Metcon 3
This earlier version of the Metcon is still popular with CrossFitters because of its durability and attractive design. The Nike Metcon 3 works well for every exercise in your WOD from lifting to running to jumping. This shoe really does it all, so it’s a great investment if you are looking for one pair of shoes to take to the box.
These shoes have a drop-in midsole that’s firm in the heel and soft and flexible in the forefoot. Not only does that give you the stability you need for weight training, but it also provides the cushioning you need for short runs.
The flat platform and firm-rubber heel also provide extra stability for explosive lifting, and the Flywire technology gives a powerful lockdown. These shoes are also light and durable because of the high-quality embroidered material, and the mesh on the heel and ankle help keep your feet cool.
Pros:
- Durable
- Can handle any exercise in your WOD
- Excellent stability for weight training
Cons:
- Some complaints of heel slippage
- Doesn’t work for rope climbing like some reviewers expected
7. Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2
You can’t go wrong with the Nike Metcon DSX Flyknit 2 because they are made for high-intensity workouts with explosive movements. The drop-in midsole gives you a stable base for weight training, and the fit from the Flywire technology is snug instead of restrictive.
The firm rubber in the heel gives the shoe durability and stability for high-intensity intervals, and the flyknit upper keeps the shoes lightweight and flexible. These shoes are also very comfortable and extremely stylish.
Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Snug fit that’s not restrictive
- Made for high-intensity workouts with explosive movements
Cons:
- Some users reported heel slippage
- Not as supportive as other Metcons
8. Nike Free x Metcon 2
The Nike Free x Metcon 2 is loved by CrossFitters because they are the perfect combination of a running shoe and crosstrainer. Not only can you run short distances with ease, but you will find that these shoes are perfect for jumps, lateral movements, and weight lifting. Essentially, you get the agility of the Free and the stability of the Metcon.
These shoes are comfortable and lightweight with a durable upper, and the midfoot cage locks your foot down for stable movement. High-intensity intervals won’t be a problem because of the flexible rubber grooves. The firm foam midsole makes these shoes comfortable and stable for weightlifting, and the partial inner sleeve gives a sock-like fit.
Click here to see the latest reviews on Rogue.
Pros:
- The perfect combo of running shoe and crosstrainer
- Can handle all exercises in your WOD
- Comfortable and lightweight
Cons:
- They do squeak on some surfaces
- Not made for powerlifting
9. Nike Metcon Flyknit 3
The Nike Metcon Flyknit 3 received excellent reviews from CrossFitters for their ability to handle various types of exercises in their WOD, like short runs, aerobics, and lifting. This shoe is comfortable in the box and for everyday activities like walking, and offers an excellent balance between flexibility for high-intensity workouts and sturdiness for weightlifting.
The dual-density, drop-in midsole provides added cushioning, and the low-profile, max-support heel promotes stability while minimizing drag. The Flyknit upper is both flexible and breathable, and the flywire technology gives added support and a locked-in feel while keeping the shoe lightweight.
Pros:
- Flexible for high-intensity workouts, sturdy for weightlifting
- Lightweight and breathable
Cons:
- Tight and narrow
- Not budget-friendly
10. Nike Lunar Fingertrap Men’s Cross Training Shoes
This is one of my absolute favorite shoes on this list because they are super comfortable and they look awesome. The Nike Lunar Fingertrap Men’s Cross Training Shoe has a full inner sleeve made from a lightweight, breathable mesh to give you a sock-like fit that hugs the foot.
The criss-crossing synthetic bands wrap your foot for a locked-in feel that allows you to adapt to every movement. And, the multidirectional outsole pattern gives you traction on any surface, while the deep, wide flex grooves allow you to move naturally.
Pros:
- Comfortable and stylish
- Sock-like fit hugs the foot
- Excellent for wide feet
Cons:
- Run large
- Some reviewers were disappointed with the traction
11. Nike Metcon 5 Utility (UT)
This shoe just hit the market, but the reviews are already strong. The Nike Metcon 5 Utility (UT) has a brand new look with a hook-and-loop strap that crosses over the laces to secure your feet for extra stability and support.
This shoe has a low, flat and wide heel and they come with removable Hyperlift inserts that will transform your cross trainers into lifters in a matter of seconds for weight training, squats, wall balls, and thrusters. And, the new rubber tread of the soles has directional traction for more grip.
The haptic chain-link pattern upper and the midsole wrap make these shoes extremely durable, and the dual density midsole has a soft, flexible forefoot for extra comfort during running and high-impact movements.
The rubber sidewall wraps the midfoot and gives you grip for rope climbs, and the rubber outsole grips the floor for maximum performance during agility drills and sled pushes.
Pros:
- Hyperlift inserts switch the shoe from cross trainer to lifter
- Hook-and-loop strap gives extra stability and support
- Extremely durable
Cons:
- Not budget-friendly
12. Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF Cross Trainer
This shoe offers maximum performance in the box as it can handle everything: high-impact cardio, jumping, burpees, lateral agility, and squats. The lightweight mesh upper provides excellent breathability, and the rugged multidirectional outsole pattern offers great traction.
The flywire cable in the forefoot gives extra support and makes your feet feel snug. They don’t run narrow, as they are true to size and quite roomy. When it comes to weightlifting, you will find that the Nike Men’s Train Prime Iron DF Cross Trainer will feel glued to the floor during squats and deadlifts.
Pros:
- Can handle any exercise in the box
- Extremely breathable and lightweight
Cons:
- Some reviewers reported that their laces broke after just a few weeks
13. Nike Men’s Fs Lite Trainer 4
The Nike Men’s Fs Lite Trainer 4 was designed for intense workouts, which means they are both lightweight and breathable. The Flywire technology gives the shoe a nice fit, and the dual-density midsole provides responsive cushioning that’s good for quick movements.
The rubber outsole provides solid lockdown and you don’t have to worry about sweaty feet due to the durable, mesh upper.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Flywire technology gives a snug fit
Cons:
- Run narrow
- May need to break-in
Top Picks for Best Nike Men’s CrossFit Shoes
| Category | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
Nike Metcon 4 XD |
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| Best for Cardio |
Nike Free x Metcon |
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| Best Durability |
Nike Metcon 5 |
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There you have it. That’s our list for the 13 best Nike Men’s CrossFit workout shoes for training in the box.You’ll notice that the options on this list really focus in on comfort, durability, and performance, which is exactly what you want in a cross-training shoe. However, there were 3 models that stood above the rest that we recommend as our top picks.
For the best overall shoe, we pick the Nike Metcon 4 XD. This sneaker offers a nice mix of features and comfort that make it stand out against the others. For a shoe that offers a more cardio-centric feel, you can’t go wrong with the Nike Free x Metcons. Finally, if you want a very durable shoe, the Nike Metcon 5 is a good upgrade since the last model.
Of course, these are only the best men’s options from the Nike brand. If you’re looking for the top picks for both men and women, then this list of CrossFit shoes should keep your attention.
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