Nike Metcon vs Reebok Nano: CrossFit Shoe Faceoff
When it comes to practical CrossFit footwear, the Nike Metcon and Reebok Nano are two of the most highly regarded shoes available on the market. Through frequent re-releases of each model, both Nike and Reebok are focused on improving WOD performance and providing the much sought after comfort, stability, and durability of the ideal CrossFit shoe.
But which shoe is best for maximizing your CrossFit performance? Let’s take a look!
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Warning! Spoilers Ahead!
Let’s cut to the chase… if we’re comparing which shoe is better for CrossFit, then the Reebok CrossFit Nano wins.
While the Nike Metcon 5 (and all its previous versions) is a really great shoe, the bulky design and construction holds it back.
Here’s the quick rundown of the benefits Reebok Nano 9:
- Super comfy
- High quality, durable construction
- Keeps you light on your feet
- Breathable upper layer
To learn the full story on Nike Metcons vs Reebok Nanos, just keep reading below.
What is the Nike Metcon?
$40 OFF!The Nike Metcon was first released in 2015 and has since been re-released on four other occasions, leading to the most recent production of the Metcon 5. The three more recent models, the Metcon 3, Metcon 4, and Metcon 5 include very similar features designed to target functional fitness and CrossFit WOD exercises.
Nike Metcon Features (Versions 3.0 thru 5.0)
- Designed for and tested by Nike’s own CrossFit athletes
- Wider heel to provide a larger base when weightlifting
- Flexible rubber outsole for improved traction and increased range of motion
- Sock-like fit and breathable Flywire/Flyknit upper for optimal comfort
- Midsole grip designed for rope climbs (and descents)
- Heel clip for stabilization within the shoe
3 Incredible Benefits of the Nike Metcon
1. WOD-Focused
The most highly praised aspect of the Nike Metcon is that the shoe was designed to improve performance during WODs and other CrossFit-related exercises.
Each of the features of the more recent models was included with particular WOD exercises in mind. Whether you’re performing deadlifts, snatches, burpees, or wall balls, you can reasonably expect the Metcon to provide the stability and power you need.
2. Traction & Grip
Each outer area of the Nike Metcon has a uniquely designed grip to increase traction and offer reliable stability.
The new sticky rubber outsoles on the recent models of the shoe provide adequate traction whether you’re sprinting, pushing sleds, or performing box jumps. The specially rubberized midsole also supports improved traction when climbing and descending ropes.
3. Stability
The major feature common among the recent models is the wider, more stable heel. Not only does this provide you with a wider base when lifting heavy, but it also includes a heel clip to lock your heel into place and provide you the stability that your WOD requires.
The new sock-like fit and cushioned tongue will also give you a tighter, more comfortable, and more stable feeling within the shoe.
: @sneakerologyny2 Reasons Against the Nike Metcon
1. Construction
While the durability of the Nike Metcon is mostly undisputed in some of the recent models, you might find yourself dissatisfied with the actual construction of the Metcon 5.
The insole of this particular model includes aspects that are both hard and soft, leading some users to liken the insole to the feeling of having something stuck in your shoe. Others noted that the shoe began falling apart sooner than expected, which led to disappointment by the lack of durability.
2. Bulky Design
As Nike continues to release new versions of the Metcon with more CrossFit-inspired features, this also contributes to the shoe’s “bulky” feeling.
While the improved stability, grip, and flexibility of the shoe can improve your performance greatly, the weight and dimensions of the shoe may hold you back. If you are looking for a minimalist design, this is not the shoe for you.
If you still want even more details on this shoe, you can check out our extended review on different models of Nike Metcon shoes.
What is the Reebok Nano?
The Reebok Nano was first released in 2011 and has since been re-released on eight other occasions, leading to the production of the Nano 9.0. The three more recent models, the Nano 7.0, Nano 8.0, and Nano 9.0 have quite similar characteristics specifically for CrossFit, weightlifting, and cross-training in general.
Reebok Nano Features (7.0 thru 9.0)
- NanoWeave upper for enhanced breathability and flexibility
- Low to minimal heel-to-toe drop for a more natural posture
- Reinforced midsole for greater performance when rope climbing
- Bootie-inspired design for comfort and stability
- Added heel-wrap technology for heel stabilization within the shoe
- Highly developed outsole for reduced ground slippage
3 Amazing Benefits of the Reebok Nano
1. Multi-Use
The most talked-about part of the Reebok Nano is the versatility of the shoe. Whether you’re doing CrossFit, performing heavy resistance training, or just cross-training, you can expect this shoe to hold up well to these demands.
This shoe supports forward motion, lateral movements, and power-related activities, thus making it a great choice if you’re looking to improve your CrossFit performance. The flexibility, stability, and breathability of this shoe make this shoe completely versatile and appropriate for just about any exercise.
2. Security & Stability
The more recent models of the Nano include additional features to secure the foot within the shoe and stabilize the lower body when performing exercises. The anatomically secure fit, stabilizing heel wrap, and wider anatomical toe box will provide you with a wider base and stability needed for exercises like deadlifts and squats.
3. Traction & Grip
The traction provided by these models, particularly the RopePro technology for rope climbing, reinforced crystallized rubber outsoles, and revamped outsole lug patterns, will undoubtedly aid your performance and prevent the loss of proper form when lifting heavy.
The grip is ideal for not just weightlifting activities, but also for providing the power and traction necessary for exercises like sprints, plyometrics, and other dynamic exercises.
1 Reason Against the Reebok Nano
1. Heel Slip
Though it’s considered a highly stable shoe with admirable levels of traction and grip, many users have noted the tendency of the heel to slip within the shoe.
While this may not be a deal-breaker for you, in particular, it is important to remember that heel stability can be the difference between perfect form and a failed lift.
Want to know more? We have a full review on the Reebok Nanos that can help further.
Nike Metcon vs. Reebok Nano Conclusion
Winner – Reebok Nano 9
- Super comfy
- High quality, durable construction
- Keeps you light on your feet
- Breathable upper layer
While the Nike Metcon and Reebok Nano can both offer you improved performance and comfort when performing your WOD, the Reebok Nano is notorious for being consistently, highly rated with each new release of the shoe.
The Reebok Nano is the better selection for CrossFit athletes, as it provides the necessary traction, stability, and multi-use features desired in the ideal CrossFit shoe, without all of the negatives that come along with the Nike Metcon.
Alternatively, the Nike Metcon is a pretty cool-looking sneaker compared to certain models of the Nano and the stylish features of a workout sneaker are often enough to sway a decision one way or the other.
All-in-all, the Reebok Nano is not just a better choice than the Nike Metcon, it is a better choice than most of the CrossFit shoes on the market. Therefore, if you’re looking for a great CrossFit shoe that will aid your performance and successfully endure any WOD, we suggest the Reebok Nano.
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