Skip to main content

The 11 Best CrossFit Shoes: Options for Every HIIT Athlete

CrossFit teaches you to expect the unexpected. Check out our top choices for CrossFit shoes so you’re prepared for whatever the workout brings.
Best Crossfit Shoes_hero

The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.

CrossFit consists of constantly varied functional movements at high intensity. Each workout is programmed strategically to prepare you for any and all physical tasks, from keeping up with your toddler to carrying an obscene amount of grocery bags at once. Your WOD (workout of the day) can consist of Olympic lifts, moving large loads over long distances, jumping, running, calisthenics, rope climbing and more.

These movements require specific CrossFit equipment and cross-training shoes to perform your best. The best shoes for CrossFit should have the flexibility of running shoes and provide a stable platform for squats, deadlifts and other strength-based exercises. The upper material should be breathable and durable in high-friction areas such as the toe box and midfoot. The outsole should provide an additional layer of stability and grip during lifting.

In this guide, we’ll go over the best CrossFit shoes for different needs and what features to consider when trying to find the best CrossFit shoes for you in 2024.

Our Picks for the Best CrossFit Shoes of 2024:

Best Overall CrossFit Shoes: NoBull Trainer+

nobull-trainer-plus-light-grey

Key Features:

  • Drop: Four millimeters
  • Width: Wide
  • Weight: 12.7 ounces

If you’ve ever been to a CrossFit class, you know to expect the unexpected. The NoBull Trainer+ is designed to offer comfort, stability and traction as each constantly varied functional movement is performed at high intensity. The upper has a clean, seamless construction using NoBull’s SuperFabric material that’s breathable and durable. To protect against abrasion from rope climbs and other wear and tear, the SuperFabric has guard plates to minimize damage and it’s pliable to maintain flexibility. There are also 76 color and pattern options, so you're likely to find one (or more) that matches your style.

For those heavier WODs, the Trainer+ has increased outsole dimensions to give the foot more contact with the ground for increased stability and traction. The herringbone outsole pattern helps you keep your grip on the platform during barbell movements and lateral movements. It also offers grip on indoor and outdoor surfaces, which proves useful during a 400-meter run or a sled push. The side walls and toe tip are lined with the high carbon rubber outsole for extra protection.

The midsole is made from EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), a lightweight flexible rubber that provides impact absorption while running, jumping or during other high-impact activities. It has a four-millimeter drop, which is ideal for CrossFit because it promotes a more natural foot position and efficient movement patterns.

There are over 3,000 reviews on the NoBull website for these shoes and many indicate that they use them for cross-training, weightlifting, running and group fitness. Reviewer Rosa Z. describes her experience, “Great trainers for CrossFit. I love the stability, comfort and grip they give me on my daily routine. I usually use them in the CrossFit box and sometimes while lifting and other types of training like short runs.” Critical reviews mention the Trainer+ isn’t the best for running longer distances. Reviewer Katelyn S. says, “The shoe has great aesthetics, is very comfortable and great for training! Not the best for running long distances (better for CrossFit style training) but overall—great for everything else!”

Related Post: NoBull Trainer Review

Pros:

  • Superfabric upper has 360-degree coverage and protection
  • Lace system is internally webbed to keep your foot in place
  • Increased midsole height for additional comfort
  • Medial rope grip and toe bumper
  • Padded heel and collar

Cons:

  • Reviews mention these feel stiff at first
  • Expensive

Best CrossFit Shoes for Wide Feet: New Balance Minimus TR

New Balance Minimus TR

Key Features:

  • Drop: Zero
  • Width: Wide
  • Weight: 8.1 ounces

If you have wide feet, we recommend the New Balance Minimus TR. These workout shoes offer two width options: standard or wide. There are also a broad range of sizes and the toe box is roomy. The premium liners allow you to train without socks, and the zero heel drop provides an adequate ground feel. New Balance uses the durable TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) for the midsole which won’t collapse under load and rebounds after impact. The rubber shank supports the arch and the full rubber coverage of the midsole delivers extra cushioning. The outsole has a moderate grip which works well in a CrossFit setting and for shorter runs outside but is not suitable for off-road running. On the outer heel, there is a TPU heel clip to help the shoe move smoothly along the wall during handstand push-ups and the midfoot has a rubber rope wrap for grip.

The mesh upper structure has different zones of stretching using knit fabric. The intarsia knitting technique creates one continuous piece of material for a seamless design for extra durability. The mesh is breathable to keep you cool during intense workouts and the tongue is sewn in. This keeps your foot secure but can make taking the shoe on and off more challenging.

Positive reviews on the New Balance website mention that the toe box feels spacious and that they are light and breathable. One review says, “It's a great balance of walking shoe and stable exercise shoe. Very comfortable fit, no perceptible rocker and good arch support.” Critical reviews comment on the size mentioning that they run small and encourage others to size up. One reviewer states, “These seem to run a bit smaller. That said, they fit great for my workouts with no socks.”

Pros:

  • Breathable, seamless upper
  • Can be worn without socks
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Reviews mention sizes run small
  • Can be tough to get on

Best CrossFit Shoes for Men: NoBull Trainer+

NOBULL Trainer+

Key Features:

  • Drop: Four millimeters
  • Width: Wide
  • Weight: 12.7 ounces

The men’s NoBull Trainer+ has an extra cushioned midsole to provide more comfort. The midsole material is EVA, a foam material that is soft, durable and flexible. The perforated tongue is breathable and made with micro suede, so it feels soft. There is an extra foam layer to keep the top of your foot comfortable under the tightened laces. The heel and collar also have additional padding for a relaxed, secure fit.

The seamless construction of the upper is made with NoBull's patented SuperFabric. This material has a breathable mesh layer, and the outer layer has guard plates that are abrasion resistant. The eyelets are secured using metal rings that keep the laces firmly in place and don’t wear quickly over time. For lateral and medial stability, the laces are webbed internally. That way, your feet stay locked down during box jumps and other dynamic movements. The carbon rubber outsole is firm and durable, and the tread pattern has deep grooves that provide traction for movement on surfaces indoors and outdoors.

These shoes are rated 4.3/5 stars on the NoBull website. A few common themes we noticed in positive reviews are that they feel comfortable and don’t need much time to wear in. Reviewer Nicole G. states, “Love these, I get so many compliments! They arrived very quickly and they fit perfectly. They were super easy to break in.” Other reviews state that they feel comfortable for wide feet as well. Michael A. states, “These are the best training shoes I’ve ever had. Great stability, due to the wide toe. Improves your stance with the amount of cushioning in the sole.” That said, some critical reviews mention that they run too big for more narrow feet.

Pros:

  • Outsole tread pattern provides grip on indoor and outdoor surfaces
  • Breathable, seamless construction
  • Wider construction increases stability
  • Molded sock liner

Cons:

  • Expensive

Best CrossFit Shoes for Women: Nike Women’s Zoom SuperRep 4

Nike Zoom SuperRep 4 Next Nature

Key Features:

  • Drop: Nine millimeters
  • Width: Narrow
  • Weight: 13.35 ounces

The Nike Women’s Zoom SuperRep 4 is designed for the heart-thumping, dynamic workouts CrossFit presents. The Nike Zoom cushioning system uses pressurized air and tightly stretched fibers to absorb the impact of fast movements like burpees, box jumps and running. The heel drop is nine millimeters which is higher than other cross-training shoes. That said, these may not be the best option for heavy lifting. These shoes are suitable for those who want a more cushioned cross-training shoe for cardio-based movements.

The sole has a full-length plate that helps with balance and efficiency by guiding your foot through the gait cycle. Each side has a large arc that acts as a brace during lateral movement. During burpees, the burpee plate on the bottom forefoot helps the shoe bend exactly where you need it to. The grip on the outsole is designed for indoor classes and outside running distances up to 1,000 meters and sprints. Positive reviews on Amazon mention that they are comfortable and supportive. One reviewer says, “The back is super cushioned for jumping. The front curves up, which helps with balance. They are super comfortable.” Critical reviews mention that the heel lacks support and they are narrow. One review says, “They do feel pretty supportive for side-to-side movement. They are a little small and the toes slide forward in the shoe to the area where there is no support beneath.”

Pros:

  • Zoom Air units absorb impact
  • Extra cushioning
  • Full-length plate helps with balance
  • Comfort collar and adjustable tongue

Cons:

  • No inner grip for rope climbs
  • Reviews mention that the heel lacks stability

Best CrossFit Shoes for Running: KURU ATOM

The KURU ATOM athletic shoe

Key Features:

  • Drop: 8 millimeters
  • Width: Medium or Wide
  • Weight: 10.6 ounces

Can a shoe designed to alleviate pain also help you see gains? The KURU ATOM has qualities you look for in a CrossFit shoe for running and also comes from a company specializing in footwear built to relieve aching feet. The design of KURU's best-selling ATOM includes a breathable, flexible mesh upper, a cushioned midsole and a wide base for stability.

Like all KURU shoes, the ATOM centers on a three-layer support system. The sole is designed to dynamically flex as you move and protect your heels. The cushioned midsole is made with lightweight EVA foam that's firmer than regular foam, which could help absorb the shock from running on surfaces like gym floors. Arch support comes from a dual-density foam insole engineered to gradually mold to the shape of your foot. For CrossFitters who brave the elements to run outdoors, the ATOM is also available in a waterproof version. If you're interested in more running gear, KURU also offers T-shirts, high-performance socks and other accessories.

The ATOM is rated an average 4.5 out of 5 stars with more than 1,300 reviews on the KURU website. While most of the reviewers praise the ATOM for helping relieve foot pain, some of the praise also comes from users who like how it performs in the gym. "What a great go-to workout shoe that gives exceptional support!" writes verified buyer Nancy B. On the other hand, some one-star reviewers weren't impressed with the pain relief or the fit.

Pros:

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Wide base to provide stability
  • Cushioned foam midsole
  • Designed for comfort and pain relief

Cons:

  • KURU recommends a gradual break-in period of about a week
  • Orders can't be changed or canceled (you'll have to return items for an exchange or refund)

Best High-Top CrossFit Shoes: NoBull High Top Trainer

NoBull High Top Trainer athletic shoe

Key Features:

  • Drop: Four millimeters
  • Width: Medium
  • Weight: N/A

The NoBull High Top Trainer offers ankle stability and functions as a day-to-day shoe. The padded collar supports the ankle and the upper material is flexible so CrossFitters don’t feel restricted during squats and other movements. NoBull’s patented SuperFabric material has a mesh base layer that’s pliable and breathable. The guard plates on the outer layer are a dense collection of dots that protect the upper from abrasion. The upper has one seam to create a clean look and is molded to fit your foot. The logo serves as a reflector and there’s a reflector on the back. Each has a subtle look in standard lighting.

Since the upper has multiple layers and the high top covers more skin, these shoes could feel warmer than other trainers. There is a mesh base layer and perforated tongue to promote airflow. However, reviews on the NoBull website don’t mention any issues with the breathability. One reviewer says, “I was afraid they'd be too hot for all-day use, but the material has a cooling effect. It’s great because I hate having hot feet.”

There’s no pull tab on the back, so you have to loosen and tighten the laces frequently. The eight metal eyelets on each side help the lace move smoothly. The tongue is flexible and can be bent to make room for your foot. Many critical reviews on the NoBull website mention their frustrations with taking the shoes on and off. Reviewer Jennifer R. states, “Very comfortable but super hard to get on! Definitely should have put a strap on the back to get them on!”

The rubber sole is flat and rigid and the cushioning is the same from the front to the heel. The typical drop range for cross-training shoes is four to seven millimeters. The NoBull High Top Trainer has a four millimeter drop. While these shoes do not offer great support for running, they are designed to feel stable and connected to the ground. The outsole has raised sections with precision cuts to provide grip. The pattern shifts up on the inside to create the medial rope grip. The High Top Trainer is an excellent option for lifting-focused metcons (metabolic conditioning).

Pros:

  • Provides ankle stability
  • Stylish, minimalistic design
  • Durable upper material
  • Variety of colors to choose from

Cons:

  • Heavier than other trainers
  • Can be challenging to get on
  • Expensive

Most Versatile CrossFit Shoes: New Balance Minimus TR

New Balance Minimus TR

Key Features:

  • Drop: Zero
  • Width: Wide
  • Weight: 8.1 ounces

The New Balance Minimus TR is a versatile option for those who like to incorporate outdoor workouts into their CrossFit routine, and the premium liner makes this shoe a great option for those who like to go sock-free. The outsole material is a durable and flexible rubber, and the unique grooves on the outsole allow the shoe to flex with the natural movement of the foot and provide grip for workouts on outdoor terrain. The midsole foam feels comfortable and feels responsive under impact and has full rubber coverage for extra support. There is a zero heel drop that promotes a natural foot position and at just 8.1 ounces, this shoe has a minimalistic feel and allows you to connect with the ground.

Reviewers on the New Balance website describe them as stable and comfortable for CrossFit movements. One review states, “Very stylish, low profile, lightweight, all-around good training shoe.” Critical reviews mention that the Minimus TR feels stiff at first. One states, “These are lightweight and breathable. Took a few tries to get the width to loosen up but they eventually did after wearing them around a few times. Some of the most comfortable shoes I've owned.” A few also mention that they fit narrow and recommend you choose a wide size option if you prefer more space.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • TPU-infused (thermoplastic polyurethane) design adds durability
  • Upgraded liner allows for sock-free training
  • Midfoot rubber rope wrap for rope climbs

Cons:

  • Reviews mention these feel narrow and have a break-in period
  • Outsole may wear from rope climbs

Best Cushioned CrossFit Shoes: Allbirds Tree Flyer 2

The Allbirds Tree Flyer 2 athletic shoe

Key Features:

  • Drop: 8.5 millimeters
  • Width: Medium
  • Weight: 10.63 ounces

Cushioning is one of the pillars of the Allbirds shoe brand, and you don't have to look any further for an example than the Tree Flyer 2. One of the key features is the midsole, made with a proprietary foam that Allbirds describes as springy, bouncy and optimized for cushioning. SwiftFoam is also 30 percent lighter than the company's original SweetFoam.

In addition to cushioning foam, the Tree Flyer 2 features an upper with a tighter knit in the midfoot for stability and a looser knit around the top for breathability. The rubber-compound sole has a horizontal lug pattern designed to increase traction. The overall design also showcases Allbirds' emphasis on sustainable materials, which includes using sugarcane to make the foam and eucalyptus tree fibers to make the upper.

Allbirds recommends the Tree Flyer 2 for training, home or gym workouts, fitness classes and running. The shoe has an average 4.2 out of 5 star rating on the Allbirds website with more than 120 reviews. Verified buyer Jason E., who wears Tree Flyers 2 for strength training, writes: "Absolutely love these. Great workout shoes." Verified buyer Andy B. writes: "Very comfortable and excellent cushioning." On the other hand, a 2-star review from verified buyer Jerold M. says: "I sized up but the sneaker is very narrow. Impossible to wear with socks." Reviewer Tendai C. writes: "These are definitely better than the last version but the sole wears away like nothing."

Pros:

  • Designed for cushioning and stability
  • Foam midsole upgraded from earlier versions
  • 30-day trial period
  • Free 2-day shipping and returns with ShopRunner

Cons:

  • Not waterproof
  • Available only in medium width

Best CrossFit Shoes for Rope Climbs: Xero 360

The Xero 360 athletic shoe

Key Features:

  • Drop: Zero
  • Width: Medium
  • Weight: 9 ounces

Experienced CrossFitters know that rope climbing isn't just about the upper body—you also need shoes that can help you properly execute the footwork. Xero's 360 athletic shoe aims to fill that part of the equation with features dedicated to this fundamental component of CrossFit. Specifically, the toe box is lined with rope-gripping rubber inlays, or grip ribs. These inlays are designed to help you get the extra friction and control you need for rope climbing. If you're worried about your shoes weighing you down, note that the 360 is just 9 ounces.

Xero designed the 360 as a protective cross-training shoe that can withstand challenging circuit-training workouts that involve lateral movement. Other features include a breathable mesh upper and a flexible, high-traction sole with omnidirectional tread. The main characteristic that separates Xero from other brands is that every shoe uses a zero-drop, barefoot-style design intended to support what the company calls "natural" movement.

Out of more than 1,200 reviews on the Xero website, users give the 360 an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Verified buyer Diego F. writes: "I got them specifically to do plyometric training and they work wonderful." However, other reviewers have complaints about the fit. "Bought an 11.5 to match other styles I purchased. These are a half size to a full size larger than the other pairs I purchased," writes verified buyer Alec W.

Pros:

  • Rubber inlays designed to assist in rope climbing
  • Lighter than many other workout shoes
  • Designed for cross-training
  • Priced at under $120

Cons:

  • Zero-drop heel might not be for everyone
  • Some users are critical of fit and durability

Best CrossFit Shoes for Squats: Adidas AdiPower 3

adidas AdiPower 3

Key Features:

  • Drop: 22 millimeters
  • Width: Narrow
  • Weight: 16.43 ounces

The Adidas AdiPower 3 has a raised heel and high-density midsole to keep you stable while you squat. These shoes are meant to be a platform for heavy lifting. In addition to the laces, the upper has a Velcro strap to keep your feet locked in. The midsole is dense and features a 22 millimeter drop which helps increase the range of motion at the ankle to encourage a deep, upright squat position. The ripstop upper material is woven tightly to increase durability without adding weight. In the forefoot, the ripstop upper is reinforced for extra stability. The ankle collar is padded and the padding extends to the front of the shoe. The outsole is smooth and rounded. The tread increases at the ball of the foot and the heel to enhance the grip on the platform. These shoes are for lifters and are not versatile. We don’t recommend wearing them during a WOD. The AdiPower 3’s can be worn for heavy lifts such as squats, cleans and other weightlifting movements.

On the Adidas website, the AdiPower 3 is rated 4.5/5 stars. Positive reviews mention that the shoes feel stable and comfortable. One review says, “The support is really good and the drop from heel to toe puts you in a great position.” Many critical reviews refer to the fit as narrow even after sizing up. One review states, “These shoes are too narrow for most people I would think. I tried going one size higher but at some point, the shoes are going to be too long just for the sake of having more room in the toe box.”

Pros:

  • Weightlifting shoes
  • TPU midsole and heel are compressive and ultra-stable
  • Rubber outsole
  • Secure, breathable upper

Cons:

  • Not versatile
  • Expensive

Best Budget CrossFit Shoes: Reebok Nanoflex TR 2.0

Reebok Nanoflex TR 2.0

Key Features:

  • Drop: Seven millimeters
  • Width: Narrow
  • Weight: 10 ounces

If you’re looking for a pair of CrossFit shoes for a lower cost, the Reebok Nanoflex TR 2.0 is a versatile trainer and is currently priced at $100. From plyometrics to weightlifting, these shoes offer stability and the high-traction rubber outsole with lug tread patterning helps you grip the floor. The TPU heel clip helps keep the feet steady during quick side-to-side movements. The EVA midsole is low-density and lightweight. EVA also has greater flexibility and better shock absorption than rubber. The heel drop is seven millimeters which is great for workouts with a running component, but the higher stack may not be ideal for heavier lifts.

The upper material is a durable mesh with lightweight overlays at the midfoot for added support. These shoes do not feature Reebok’s patented Flexweave technology, however, the less durable mesh is a compromise for the lower price. For extra comfort, there is thick, soft padding around the heel. On the Reebok website, reviews are mainly positive and these trainers are rated 4.8/5 stars. Many positive reviews mention the comfortable fit and that the quality is great for the price. One review says, “A stylish and comfortable shoe. These shoes are versatile and allow me to do multiple types and forms of workouts.” All six colors available feature a black, white or gray upper with various accent colors. If you prefer bright colors these may not be the shoes for you. Critical reviews mention that they run small and the toe box feels narrow, so if you have wide feet you might consider sizing up a half-size.

Pros:

  • Weighs only 10 ounces
  • High-traction rubber outsole
  • Versatile
  • Budget-friendly

Cons:

  • Upper is less durable than other Reebok trainers
  • Reviews mention a narrow fit

Why Should I Buy CrossFit Shoes?

CrossFit programming incorporates nine fundamental exercises and sixteen significant exercises. These compound movements are utilized in training to reach load, distance and speed objectives. CrossFit workouts usually include different movements in each class. CrossFit shoes are designed to support CrossFitters’ feet, remain stable under load and feel comfortable during distance and speed objectives. That way, you’re ready for anything the WOD or other HIIT includes.

The outsole material is rigid and durable and has enough tread for indoor workouts and light runs on outdoor surfaces. The heel drop is typically lower than other athletic shoes, so your foot connects to the ground during lifts. There is also a heel counter to reinforce the heel. The rope guard protects the upper and helps your shoes grip during rope climbs. The toe cap protects the front of the shoe during up-and-down movements like burpees.

How to Choose the Best CrossFit Shoes for You

The best CrossFit shoes for you vary based on the width of your feet, how much insole cushioning you’d like and the heel drop you prefer. Overall, you want your feet to feel comfortable throughout the workout. If you have wide feet, try to find a pair of shoes that offer options for wide feet, like the New Balance Minimus TR. You’ll also want to consider the width of the toe box and what feels comfortable for you. The product reviews give insight into how the shoe you’re considering fits, and most brands offer a size guide.

Preferences on cushioning vary, but keep in mind that too little cushioning can be uncomfortable during dynamic movements and too much cushioning makes the feet less stable while strength training. For heel drop, four to seven millimeters is the typical range for cross trainers. We recommend four millimeters because it’s a nice balance between sturdy foot-to-ground contact during lifts and cushioning during high-impact movements.

How We Chose the Best CrossFit Shoes

We chose the best CrossFit shoes based on several factors. First, we looked at the durability of the upper and considered the material making sure it was flexible and breathable. We also noted the durability of the outsole and looked for additional features such as toe caps, heel clips and grips for rope climbs. We also considered the fit, price and what the user reviews state. These factors combined helped us compile a list of the best shoes for CrossFit.

What Features Do CrossFit Shoes Have?

Thick toe cap

The toe cap protects the toe area during pushups, burpees and other toe-dragging movements. Usually, it’s a synthetic overlay that extends from the outsole using the same material. If the rubber sole is durable, then the toe cap is likely durable enough to prevent wear and protect your toes. If you want CrossFit shoes with a thicker toe cap, we recommend the Reebok Nano X3 or the Nobull Trainer+.

Wide toe box

The right width for the toe box depends on what you prefer. Athletes with narrow to medium width feel may prefer a more narrow toe box while those with wide feet need room for the toes to splay. If you’re unsure about the fit, the reviews are an excellent place to learn more before ordering. We found that many mentioned the fit and the toe box specifically. In some cases the reviews were mixed, so it’s always a good idea to choose a brand that allows you to return or exchange as needed.

Low heel drop

The heel drop for CrossFit shoes is lower than other athletic shoes. That way, your heel stays firmly planted during overhead presses and other lifts. If you like to feel very connected to the ground, the New Balance Minimus TR has a zero drop heel, which provides an adequate ground feel. On the other hand, these workout shoes may feel uncomfortable for CrossFitters during running WODs and sprints. If you are looking for CrossFit shoes that absorb impact and have more cushioning, the Nike Women’s Zoom SuperRep 4 has a nine millimeter drop. These shoes are comfortable during dynamic movements but aren’t as sturdy during lifts such as deadlifts. CrossFit shoes with a four millimeter drop, such as the Nike Metcon 8, balance of comfort and stability.

CrossFit Shoes FAQs

Can you run in CrossFit shoes?

Yes, CrossFit shoes are made for shorter runs of up to two miles. If you plan to run further, you might want to consider a running shoe with more cushioning.

Do your shoes make a difference when CrossFit training?

Yes, CrossFit shoes are made specifically for CrossFit workouts that include a variety of exercises from heavy lifting to running. The right shoe can help you maintain your form and keep you comfortable throughout the workout.

Can I wear running shoes to CrossFit training?

We don’t recommend wearing running shoes for CrossFit training because they lack the stability and durability needed for this type of exercise.

Final Thoughts

CrossFit shoes are designed to keep you stable and comfortable during CrossFit workouts which include high-impact movements and lifting. The upper and outsole materials are durable to protect from daily wear. The upper fits your foot snugly while remaining breathable during a sweaty WOD. CrossFit shoes are also lightweight, to allow quick medial and lateral movement. Which brand you prefer depends on your budget, foot width and the features you’d like. The right shoe for CrossFit training can help keep you comfortable as you reach new PRs (personal records) and milestones.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.