When you're crushing your latest challenging WOD in your CrossFit box, you never want to be worried about your feet. Since functional fitness training demands a lot from your body with its varied modalities, from heavy cleans to box jumps to rope climbs, finding the right CrossFit shoes can be a challenge.
This is also why it's important to create a hierarchy of CrossFit shoe needs that work best for your performance. "There are three key aspects that I look for in top-performing CrossFit shoes," says Jake Boly, C.S.C.S., a trainer, shoe reviewer, and owner of That Fit Friend. "The first is the midsole construction. A great CrossFit shoe will have a midsole that is responsive enough for activities like box jumps, but stable enough for lifting various loads. Each model's midsole construction will be slightly different and this is important to relate to your needs."
The second aspect Boly looks for is the construction of the shoe's upper and how much durability it provides. "If you know you're going to be tackling rope climbs regularly at your gym, for example, then you'll want a model that has upper construction features to support this type of activity," he says. "Keeping factors like that in mind will help your investment go the distance."
The final characteristic is the toe box width and heel-to-toe drop. "These are both important to consider because our feet are all built slightly differently," says Boly. "Some of us will need a wider toe box, while others can get away with a narrower shoe. Heel-to-toe drop, also known as offset, can also play a role in movement mechanics so understanding this can help positively influence your training performance."
Below are 12 of the best shoes for CrossFit in 2021. Every model is built slightly differently so there's a great chance you'll find the model that's perfect for you with just a bit of research.
Puma's low-profile training shoes have a unique lockdown fit to go along with a slick design. An extra wide toe box gives your toes plenty of room to splay when you're under heavy weight, and the tough upper material can withstand whatever workout you want to do.
These extremely comfortable trainers were designed using Mizuno's C.O.B. Technology, which is meant to help increase balance and under foot sensitivity. That means better control and stability, in theory, while the one-piece bootie construction allows for a perfect fit.
The latest edition of the long-running, super-popular “Official Shoe of Fitness” has everything in one package. Along with the typical considerations for weightlifting, the toe box was redesigned and Reebok’s Floatride energy return midsole material was included to make it friendlier for running.
UnderArmour Men's UA TriBase™ Reign 3 Training Shoes
These shoes feature Under Armour’s TriBase construction, one of our favorites for heavy work in the gym. Rubber wraps the outsole and under the toe box to help you to get a good grip. Plus, they feature a low 2mm heel-to-toe drop, so if you love having a lower offset, then this is a good model for you.
If you're sick of the low-profile designs offered by other CrossFit shoes, opt for the high-top version of No Bull's respected trainers. This low-drop shoe features an upper made of SuperFabric, a durable, abrasion-resistant yet breathable material that gives these kicks a distinctive look (a look that works well outside the box, too, especially considering NOBULL's incredible colorway options).
The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are a great option for the athlete and lifter that loves having a slightly higher heel-to-toe drop in their CrossFit workouts. This model features a dual-density midsole for stability and responsiveness and has an 8mm heel-to-toe drop which is awesome for anyone that loves having a bit more heel to lift on.
Tactical outfitter Lalo worked with one of our favorite strength coaches, Bobby Maximus, to produce this beast of a trainer. While the shoes are strong enough to take on any weightlifting challenge and versatile enough to run well, be careful when you hit the rope for climbing exercises.
Inov-8’s super-tough training shoes are a cult favorite, and the newest release brings all of the brand's innovations to the fore. Inov-8 believes the shoes, made with graphene, "the world's toughest material", are so good that the brand is offering a 30 day trial period, with refunds for any unsatisfied customers.
The Nike Metcon 7 is a nice blend of responsiveness and stability. This model features some unique CrossFit-focused tech features like a built-in Hyperlift in the heel for stability, increased mid-foot support for durability, and a tongue-lock for long-term lace durability. We named it one of our favorite sneakers of the year for a reason.
This New Balance silhouette is meant to fill the space between barefoot training and the brand's super-cushioned runners. Padding in the engineered knit upper gives way to a Vibram sole, which aims to handle your toughest workouts.
Like Altra's other kicks, these trainers are designed to mimic the shape of your feet. That means there's an extra-wide toe box (great for heavyweight lifts) and other features to encourage flexibility and movement. There's also a reinforced cage and a full rubber outsole for added durability.
These multipurpose trainers from Lane-Eight aren't necessarily designed for the box—but they can perform just about everywhere, with a utilitarian design with an eye toward high fashion. Put them to the test in your more general WODs, and you might like how they feel. Best of all: they're made out of sustainable materials.
