13 Best CrossFit Workout Shoes for Women in 2020 [Reviews]
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All CrossFit athletes need shoes built to handle Olympic-style lifts, agility and speed exercises, and long hours at the gym. That means those old running shoes and retired weightlifting shoes just aren’t going to cut it.
Our top pick for your next WOD are the Nike Women’s Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes because of their fit, roominess, and awesome support that can handle real, true cross-training.
But keep reading, because we’re about to go over the 13 best CrossFit-style shoes for women available right now.
In a Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick!
Nike Women’s Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes
- Offers a reinforced outsole in high-wear areas
- Adequate heel and midsole support (insane balance)
- Comes in 12 different color combinations
- Fits snugly all-around
- Has a roomy toe box so your toes don’t feel so squished
Things to Consider When Buying CrossFit Workout Shoes
As a CrossFit athlete, you know how diverse your WOD might be.
You might go from kettlebell swings to squats to double-unders without much of a transition. There’s just no time to switch between your running and weightlifting shoes mid-WOD.
You need a pair of shoes that can handle everything.
So, let’s talk about the things you want to look for in your next pair of CrossFit shoes.
Breathability
You might spend up to 60 minutes at the gym during a CrossFit workout.
As you power through each and every exercise during your WOD, your body begins to overheat and you start sweating.
But, the more your feet sweat, the more likely you are to get blisters. And, painful blisters on your feet can keep you out of the gym for days or even weeks as they heal.
That’s where you’ll want breathable CrossFit shoes.
These shoes usually have an outer layer of mesh at the upper of the shoe. The mesh allows the air to flow in and out of your shoes, keeping your feet cool and dry in the process.
Grip
All shoes have an outer layer of grip known as the “outsole.”
But, a good pair of CrossFit shoes will have an extremely durable rubber outsole that prevents slipping and provides a decent amount of traction.
Think about it – You need as much grip as possible when doing exercises like sled pushes and burpees.
But, these rubber outsoles are less than impressive for rope climbs.
The good news is that great CrossFit shoes have rubber midsoles that ride up the interior sides of the shoes. This can keep rope clenched and gripped between your feet for better traction during rope climbs.
Heel-Toe Drop
The heel-toe drop of shoes is the difference in height between the heel and the toes. For example, a 4mm heel-toe drop means your heels are sitting 4mm higher than your toes.
But, what does this mean for you?
The lower the heel-toe drop, the closer you are to being “barefoot.” And, a lot of CrossFit enthusiasts appreciate this zero heel-toe drop because it provides a grounded feeling and can help with balance.
You’re also able to keep better form and reduce the risk of lower-body injury during your WOD.
So, your CrossFit shoes should be as low to the ground as possible. Just keep in mind it will take you a bit of time to get used to this set-up.
Flexibility
Weightlifting shoes are so effective because they keep your entire foot stable during even the heaviest of lifts.
But, think about what CrossFit really is.
Exercises like double-unders, mountain climbers, and burpees require you to flex your foot to get a full range of motion.
That means you want CrossFit shoes that are flexible. And, flexible shoes can also help you to work more muscles in your feet, building strength at the same time.
Heel Stabilization
Balance is insanely important in CrossFit.
In most pairs of shoes, side-to-side motions or shuffling can easily cause your heel to slip in the shoe. As your heel slips, you’re more likely to sprain an ankle or even fall during an exercise.
This can be catastrophic if you’re lifting a heavy load.
A heel clip (or other similar feature) is usually made of sturdy material like TPU. It straddles the rear portion of your CrossFit shoe to keep your heels put during exercise.
This heel wrap feature is very useful for keeping your heels locked down during heavy lifts.
Quick Summary View
| Rank | Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |
 Nike Women's Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes |
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| #2 |
 Reebok Women's CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer |
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| #3 |
 Reebok Women's Nano 9 Cross Trainer Shoes |
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| #4 |
 NOBULL Women's Training Shoes |
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| #5 |
 PUMA Women's Tazon 6 WN's FM Cross-Trainer Shoe |
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| #6 |
 Reebok Women's TR Speed Her Training Shoes |
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| #7 |
 Reebok Women's Crossfit Nano 2.0 Training Shoe |
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| #8 |
 Reebok Women's CROSSFIT Grace TR Cross Trainer |
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| #9 |
 Inov-8 Women's F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe |
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| #10 |
 Reebok Women's Crossfit Lifter Plus 2.0 Training Shoe |
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| #11 |
 Inov-8 Women's Bare-XF 210 V2 Sneaker |
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| #12 |
 Adidas Originals Women's Adidas Athletics 24/7 W Cross Trainer |
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| #13 |
 ASICS Women's Gel-Fit Yui Cross-Trainer Shoe |
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13 Best CrossFit Workout Shoes for Women
1. Nike Women’s Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes
Considering the fact that Reebok was once the sponsor of the CrossFit Games, it’s a bit surprising that a Nike shoe like the Nike Free Metcon 2 Amp one takes the cake.
That’s because this shoe was built for any WOD at any intensity.
The first thing you’ll notice is how snugly this shoe fits. The sock-like fit and enhanced foam sole keep your feet comfortable and stable during lateral, forward, and backward movements.
Your agility and speed drills are no match for the Metcon 2.
Grip is absolutely no issue with this Nike model either. Not only does it have a sticky rubber outsole and midsole (perfect for rope climbs), but it also reinforces high-wear areas to add to the lifespan of this CrossFit shoe.
This model is also insanely breathable, lightweight, and offers unmatchable heel support.
Pros:
- Offers a reinforced outsole in high-wear areas
- Adequate heel and midsole support (insane balance)
- Comes in 12 different color combinations
- Fits snugly all-around
- Has a roomy toe box so your toes don’t feel so squished
Cons:
- May have too much room for narrow feet
2. Reebok Women’s CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer
The Nano 8.0 comes from the biggest name in CrossFit – Former sponsor Reebok. In fact, many former Metcon fanatics have transitioned over to this Reebok model instead.
This shoe was designed to handle even the longest CrossFit workouts.
The infused Flexweave Technology provides a strong and flexible upper. That means your feet won’t feel constricted during movements and you don’t have to worry about overly sweaty feet – So, say “goodbye” to blisters!
Durability is one of the highlights of this model. It boasts a feature called “Toe Tection,” which reinforces the toe region of this shoe for greater push-off during sprints and power exercises.
The 4mm heel-toe drop will make you feel like you’re barefoot at the gym. Add that to the heel bootie and you’ve got yourself the perfect support shoe during heavy Olympic-style lifts.
Pros:
- Appears to come in 21 different designs
- Very flexible and stretchy Flexweave exterior for smoother movements
- Runs relatively true to size
- 4mm toe drop gives that low-to-ground feeling
- Incredible range of motion & mobility
Cons:
- Minimal cushioning in insole
- Very unique fit that takes a while to get used to
3. Reebok Women’s Nano 9 Cross Trainer Shoes
The Reebok Nano 9 Cross Trainer is the next version of the Nano 8.0. Though not as highly-regarded by female CrossFit athletes, this model surely defends its role as one of the best CrossFit shoes.
This shoe is a little bit of a step up as compared to the previous model.
The first noticeable difference is the two-piece outsole. Unlike a single-piece outsole, two-piece outsoles can highlight the different movements and flexions of both your heels and your toes.
So, you can get better flexibility and range of motion depending on the exercise at hand. That means more support during deadlifts and greater flexibility during mountain climbers.
Most importantly, this shoe infuses an unseen midsole cushioning. That makes this model one of the few CrossFit shoes that can also keep your feet comfortable during a long run.
Pros:
- Improved version of the flexible & breathable Flexweave upper
- Can double as a running shoe in a pinch
- Possibly 24 different colors/designs available
- Low-drop for that barefoot feeling
- Reinforced midsole for rope climbs and durability
Cons:
- Frequent issues with sizing
- Not exactly a step-up from the previous model
4. NOBULL Women’s Training Shoes
NOBULL is one of the up-and-coming athletic shoe companies breaking its way into the CrossFit market with their signature NOBULL Trainers.
This shoe highlights everything a CrossFit athlete needs in their footwear.
Most important is the 4mm heel-toe drop. This is the perfect solution if you want a minimalist shoe for a more grounded feeling, but have yet to adapt to a completely barefoot set-up (zero-drop sole).
The problem with a lot of CrossFit shoes is wear-and-tear. After a few dozen rope climbs and sprints, the grip begins to wear away and the mesh of the shoe starts to fall apart.
That’s not an issue with this NOBULL model. The inclusion of a rope grip feature and SuperFabric guard plates keeps each shoe from resisting damage caused by friction (such as rope climbs and slides).
Pros:
- Low-to-ground 4mm heel-toe drop
- SuperFabric exterior prevents wear and tear from rope climbs
- Reflective logo for outdoor use at night
- Comes in 14 different varieties
- Slightly breathable in the tongue
Cons:
- Definitely not a good shoe for running activities
- Seems a little small or tight
5. PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer Shoe
PUMA doesn’t have many CrossFit-style shoes, but Tazon 6 is their best specimen.
The first thing you’ll notice about this shoe is the ruggedness. It’s designed with a synthetic leather upper that makes it almost entirely resistant to any type of damage, scratching, or friction during your WOD.
So, this isn’t the type of shoe that’ll fall apart in a few short months.
If you have weak ankles or just seem to be lacking balance sometimes, this shoe is exactly what you need. That’s because it has a TPU shank at the midsole, which can keep your foot stable in the shoe and reduce your risk of spraining your ankle during side-to-side motions.
This shoe fits perfectly, comfortably, and provides the stability you haven’t seen from other PUMA models.
Pros:
- Offers an impressive amount of stability (TPU shank, leather upper)
- Fits snug and smooth like a sock
- Leather upper is designed to handle all types of friction
- Very comfortable cushioning
- Provides arch support (unlike most CrossFit shoes)
Cons:
- Seems to run small in size
- Firm leather upper might irritate the ankles
6. Reebok Women’s TR Speed Her Training Shoes
Reebok makes solid CrossFit shoes, even when they aren’t specifically made for CrossFit. That’s exactly what you’re getting with the Reebok Women’s TR Speed Her.
The major issue with CrossFit shoes is that they’re built purely for weightlifting, speedwork, and agility. This particular model infuses a flexible forefoot and lightweight design that actually makes it a decent running shoe as well.
So, you don’t need CrossFit shoes and running shoes anymore.
Yet, the fact that this shoe can double as a running shoe doesn’t make it less effective as a CrossFit shoe.
The rubber outsole will give you the traction you need during exercises like sled pushes, squats, and burpees. Plus, the low-to-ground construction will give you the perfect support base and balance during heavy deadlifts.
Pros:
- Comes in 10 different colors
- Grounded feeling for added balance
- Soft collar will prevent ankle irritation
- Capable of handling long-distance runs and weightlifting
- Won’t weigh you down
Cons:
- Tends to run a bit wide
7. Reebok Women’s Crossfit Nano 2.0 Training Shoe
We’ve already gone over the Nano 8.0 and the Nano 9, but the Reebok CrossFit Nano 2.0 still holds its position as an incredible CrossFit shoe. This shoe will give you that old-school Reebok sneaker look.
This shoe is exactly what you need if you crave a CrossFit shoe that gives you a natural feel.
The minimal heel-toe drop will give you stability and balance during lifts and the Ortholite sock liner will provide a snug fit during any exercise. The mesh upper will keep your feet cool and dry, even when the gym is sweltering hot.
As just the second model of the Nano, this shoe was truly ahead of its time.
It was one of the first examples of a CrossFit shoe that was lightweight, had reinforced rubber for added durability, and offered practically unheard of lateral support (for agility).
You can truly depend on this model for agility work, powerlifting, and even short-distance cardio.
Pros:
- Fits snugly and securely
- Breathable upper reduces risk of blisters
- Has that old-school Reebok appearance
- Comes in 14 different designs
- Offers adequate side-to-side support & stability
Cons:
- Won’t hold up well during runs
- Might seem a little unstable at first
8. Reebok Women’s CROSSFIT Grace TR Cross Trainer
The Reebok CrossFit Grace TR seems to have been designed to target agility work in particular. You’ll notice that a lot of the features for this model are very similar to the TR Speed HR that we reviewed a little earlier.
This model can handle all types of exercise.
You can feel comfortable loading it into your gym bag and setting new PRs on the squat and deadlift at the gym. It also fares very well in the CrossFit scene thanks to the sticky rubber outsoles and impressively flexible forefoot.
Most important would be the cushion. Not only will your feet be comfortable during the entirety of your workout, but you also won’t have to cut your WOD short due to foot pains or aches.
Pros:
- Offers 16 different colors
- Built to handle high-traction exercises like burpees
- Adds cushioning to the interior for longer workouts
- Handles agility exercises quite well
- Works for weightlifting routines too
Cons:
- Fits somewhat narrow
9. Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V2 is a slight step-up from the previous F-Lite 235.
The major difference between the two models is that this one is more lightweight, making it less heavy on the feet and capable of improving your speed and agility.
Keep in mind – This model has absolutely no arch. Though the lack of arch won’t be a good fit for everyone, it does provide an unmatched barefoot feeling for stability during deadlifts and squats.
Then, there’s the wide toe box. During heavy lifts and squats, the wide toe box allows your toes to naturally spread and create an even wider base for better support.
You can tell that Inov-8 created this shoe with CrossFit in mind.
It has a 360-degree Rope-Tec grip that can give you more traction during rope climbs without destroying the upper of the shoe. There’s also the reinforced rubber toe bumper that’ll give support and durability during exercises like burpees and mountain climbers.
Pros:
- Designed for agility, weightlifting, and CrossFit
- Handles speed activities quite well (flexibility)
- Sturdy heel wrap ideal for support during weightlifting
- Rope-Tec feature prevents rope burn and wear & tear
- Boasts 8 different designs
Cons:
- Toe box and shoe are meant to fit wide (not for those with narrow feet)
- Almost no arch support
10. Reebok Women’s Crossfit Lifter Plus 2.0 Training Shoe
The Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0 is a solid shoe if you’re a CrossFit athlete looking to focus more on the weightlifting aspect. So, this isn’t the best choice if you’re planning to run or do speed work.
What this shoe can do is give you a wide and stable base during Olympic-style lifts.
That’s all thanks to the heel clip technology, which can give you more of a locked-down feeling and confidence during your new PR attempts. The added velcro strap will keep your midfoot in place at the same time.
You also have a wider toe box for a natural toe spread and a wider base. The anti-friction lining on the interior will prevent your feet from slipping, even when they’re sweaty.
Pros:
- Has 6 flashy colors available
- Incredible support for exercises like squats and deadlifts
- Awesome heel clip for optimal stability
- Velcro strap will keep your midfoot secure
- Designed for lifting
Cons:
- Will be too stiff for regular CrossFit WOD
11. Inov-8 Women’s Bare-XF 210 V2 Sneaker
The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V2 is a CrossFit-style shoe that also has features suitable for lifting.
In terms of weightlifting and powerlifting, this Inov-8 shoe has a Y-lock heel to keep your heel from shifting inside your shoe during heavy PR attempts. The zero-drop sole will give you a more natural feel and base during lifts.
The CrossFit features are impressive too.
It includes Rope-Tec protection as we saw in the previous Inov-8 model. Yet, the flexible outsole, lightweight design, and breathable upper make this the perfect shoe for long CrossFit workouts and speedwork as well.
Pros:
- 3mm drop gives that barefoot feel when lifting
- Has a very sticky outsole for grip with speed
- Rope-Tec feature keeps shoes gripped during rope climbs
- Impressively lightweight and breathable
- Includes 6 different color combinations
Cons:
- Tends to run too small
- The insole loosens and slides
12. Adidas Originals Women’s Adidas Athletics 24/7 W Cross Trainer
Adidas doesn’t specialize in shoes for CrossFit, which explains why such a reputable shoe brand is so low on this list. Yet, this model is a force to be reckoned with.
The Adidas Athletics 24/7 W Cross Trainer is one of the most comfortable out there for female CrossFit athletes.
It has a breathable and flexible mesh upper. This keeps your feet cool and dry during long workouts while also allowing you to flex and bend your feet perfectly to the exercise you’re performing.
Your foot will remain absolutely secure during the entirety of every exercise.
This is also the first model that we think is easy to take on and off. That’s all thanks to the split-tongue that doesn’t bunch up or get in the way every time you fumble around with your shoe.
Pros:
- Very minimalistic and lightweight
- Simple to slide on and off thanks to the split tongue
- Breathable mesh upper for less foot overheating
- Provides a secure and stable feeling
- Lacing is completely adjustable to fit your feet
Cons:
- Might make your feet look huge
13. ASICS Women’s Gel-Fit Yui Cross-Trainer Shoe
Last but not least, we have the Gel-Fit Yui from ASICS. This model is not to be confused with the second version, which has much lower user reviews and doesn’t seem to be any better.
The most important feature of this shoe is the rather unique gel insole. It’s capable of reducing shock in the heel when you’re jumping and landing with activities like double-unders and box jumps.
This ASICS model isn’t weak in any sense.
The high-abrasion rubber allows you to do the same exercises over and over without having to worry about losing grip over time. This can add months or even years to the lifespan of this particular shoe.
Pros:
- Reinforced outsole and midsole built for wear & tear
- Provides maximal shock absorption (great for box jumps)
- Offers a decent amount of insole cushion
- Doesn’t require you to wear socks
- Seems to be rather lightweight
Cons:
- Not good for running at all
- Tend to feel a bit stiff
Top Picks for the Best CrossFit Shoes for Women
Nike Women’s Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes
- Offers a reinforced outsole in high-wear areas
- Adequate heel and midsole support (insane balance)
- Comes in 12 different color combinations
- Fits snugly all-around
- Has a roomy toe box so your toes don’t feel so squished
Though Reebok is the biggest name in CrossFit, the Nike Women’s Free Metcon 2 Amp Fitness Shoes is undoubtedly the best CrossFit shoe for women.
This shoe is the perfect combination of the best CrossFit shoe features.
It’s flexible, breathable, stable, and has incredible traction. This is a great CrossFit shoe to add to your training schedule if you want to see real gains and progress.
However, if you want a more dedicated weightlifting shoe, the Reebok Women’s Crossfit Lifter Plus 2.0 Training Shoe is a better pick since the hard sole and lockdown strap will give you the extra stability you need to perform Olympic lifts like a boss.
Want to see more great sneaker picks to dominate your next WOD? Check out our complete list of the overall best CrossFit training shoes!
The post 13 Best CrossFit Workout Shoes for Women in 2020 [Reviews] appeared first on NOOB GAINS.
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