The 15 Best CrossFit Shoes for Every Workout in 2025

The Nike Romaleos 4 is our top-rated lifting shoe at 9.5/10, and in our testing it delivered exceptional stability and a rock-solid platform that serious lifters will appreciate. We found the twin straps and stiff sole lock your foot in for heavy squats and cleans, earning its high ranking for pure lifting performance, though the upper has limited breathability and potential durability trade-offs—and it can feel bulky for athletes with narrow ankles. If you prioritize maximal lift support over versatility, this is hard to beat.

The Nike Metcon 9 scored 8/10 in our review and proved itself as a dependable all-rounder with outstanding lift stability and enhanced comfort from Nike React foam. We found the updated heel clip and flat outsole make heavy lifts feel secure and the reinforced mesh and rope wrap boost durability, but the shoe still runs a bit stiff for longer runs and can feel narrow for wide-footed athletes. If you want a multi-discipline workhorse that’s built to last under heavy training, the Metcon 9 is a top pick.

The TYR CXT-1 Trainer is one of our stronger all-around picks, earning an 8.5/10 in our testing thanks to a secure fit and breathable mesh upper that keeps feet cool during intense sessions. We found it especially reliable for narrower feet—offering a locked-in feel for heavy lifts and solid support during quick transitions. Be aware the higher heel-to-toe drop won’t suit athletes chasing minimal-drop shoes, and the mesh can fray with frequent rope climbs, so durability is a caveat. If you value a snug, performance-oriented trainer for lifting and mixed WODs, this one stands out.

The UA Charged Pursuit 3 is an affordable, lightweight trainer that earned a 6.5/10 in our testing thanks to its airy performance mesh and plush cushioning that make longer sessions comfortable. We found the shoe really helps with speed and agility during runs and keeps feet cool, but during our review durability concerns cropped up when pushed in high-volume WODs and the lack of arch support limits its usefulness for structured lifting. Expect a snug fit—sizing can run small—so try before you buy if you need more structure or plan heavier lifts.

On the Cloud X 4 (6/10) we liked how featherlight construction and a breathable upper boosted agility for HIIT and short runs, which in our testing made transitions feel snappier. During our review the downside became clear: limited lifting stability and a narrow fit that will pinch wider feet, and we also noticed traction can be iffy on wet surfaces. If your routine skews toward dynamic conditioning rather than heavy compound lifts, the Cloud X 4 is versatile and comfortable, but it’s not our top choice for heavy lifting.

The Outwork Edge (7/10) impressed us with military-grade durability—the SuperFabric® one-piece upper and herringbone outsole gave excellent traction and a stable 4mm drop for lifting. In our testing it handled abrasive environments and heavy use without complaint, but the shoes run slightly large, feel stiff on longer walks or runs, and have a narrow toe box that can pinch wider feet. If you want something that sacrifices some comfort and versatility for near-indestructible performance and stability, the Outwork Edge is worth the trade-off.

The Nike Free Metcon 6 landed an 8/10 in our testing by offering a strong balance of stability for moderate lifts and a breathable, engineered mesh upper that flexes where you need it. During our review we appreciated the sock-like bootie fit that keeps the foot secure for lunges and jumps, but we also noticed the forefoot midsole can degrade on sled pushes and the boot can be hard to get on if you have a high instep; it’s also not ideal for rope climbs. Overall it’s a versatile choice for mixed sessions with some durability caveats.

The Primus Lite 3.5 scored 5.5/10 in our experience and is best for minimalists who want barefoot-like feedback rather than a traditional CrossFit shoe. In our testing the ultra-thin 4mm sole and featherweight construction allowed full sensory connection and natural movement, but it runs long, lacks half-sizes, and offers little protection from elements—mesh and long laces can be annoying during chaotic sessions. For mobility work and those who prioritize ground feel, it’s excellent, but it’s not the go-to for heavy or mixed-surface WODs.

If you want a stable, roomy platform for lifts and quick metcons, the TriBase Reign 4 is worth considering—in our testing it earned a solid 7.5/10 for stability and comfort. We found the wide toe box lets your toes splay naturally during heavy squats and the cushioned midsole makes short runs and plyometrics feel springy. That said, the glossy, vinyl-style laces came undone for some users and a number of testers reported the soles wore down faster than expected, so durability is a trade-off. Overall it’s a versatile, comfortable option if you prioritize a stable base over long-term ruggedness.

The Inov-8 F-Lite G300 scored 7/10 in our review and stands out as a stable, workhorse trainer that feels at home under heavy bars thanks to a wide toe box and solid base. In our testing it provided reliable lift stability and breathable comfort, but we found the laces don't always lock down and the shoe is heavier and roomier than many competitors, which can hurt quick agility and frustrate narrow-footed athletes. If you prioritize durability and support for squats and deadlifts, this is a dependable pick.

The Reebok Nano X4 scored a solid 7.5/10 in our experience, delivering the stability and comfort many CrossFitters want for varied sessions and compound lifts. We found it locks you in for heavier movements and stays comfortable across metcons, but the toe box is narrower than past models and some users reported durability issues like heel tears and sole peeling during prolonged, intensive use. If stability and a balanced feel are priorities, the Nano X4 is a reliable performer—just size accordingly and be mindful of longevity concerns.

The RAD ONE V2 earned an 8.5/10 in our review and stands out as a versatile, supportive choice that blends gym performance with street-ready style. We found the improved midsole cushioning and stable TPU heel clip deliver reliable support and comfort across varied WODs, and the toe guard adds durability; however, it’s pricier and a touch heavier and less flexible than some cross-trainers. For athletes who want a polished, all-around trainer that handles lifting, metcons, and casual wear, the R.A.D ONE V2 is a top contender.

The PUMA Fuse V2.0 is an attractive budget pick that in our testing delivered good forefoot stability—helpful when you’re locking in lifts on a budget. During our review we appreciated the roomy toe box that supports balance, but the shoe scored a modest 6.5/10 because the midsole tends to compress in the heel under heavy weight and the heel lining wore away for some users after a month. It’s comfortable enough for metcons and casual strength days, yet durability issues mean it’s best for lighter lifters or beginners who want value over longevity.

The UA Reign 6 scored a respectable 7/10 in our review and stands out for its supportive UA WARP upper and TPU mesh that aim to balance durability and breathability during dynamic movements. In our experience the shoe gives confident lateral support and holds up well across varied WODs, making it a versatile gym companion. However, several testers noted the fit runs narrow—especially in the toe box—and some found it less breathable than advertised, so try them on if you have wider feet or prioritize airflow. It’s a solid middle-ground choice for athletes who need structure and dependable performance.