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Women being addicted to shoes is a tired adage, one that would normally have me rolling my eyes and sighing about the unoriginality. If I am being transparent, though, when it comes to this stereotype, I have to wear it. That’s especially true when it comes to CrossFit shoes. I have different brands and even different colors in the same brand. Much like children, I love them equally but differently.
The Best CrossFit Shoes for Women - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: NOBULL Ripstop Runner
- Best Reebok: Reebok Nano X2
- Best with Ankle Support: NOBULL High-Top Trainer
- Best for Running: NOBULL Ripstop Runner
- Best Budget: Reebok Nanoflex TR
- Best for Wide Feet: GORUCK Ballistic Trainer
- Best for Everyday Wear: Nike Metcon 7
- Best Under Armour: Women's UA TriBase Reign 4
- Best for Narrow Feet: Inov-8 Women's F-lite 235 V3
In this review, I will break down the best CrossFit shoes for women so that you can make an informed decision about which trainers will work best for you.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com’s editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Crossfit Shoes for Women - NOBULL Ripstop Runner
SPECS
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel drop: 11mm
Why We Picked It
As the name suggests, you may think the Ripstop Runner is engineered exclusively for running. While it's true that the Ripstop Runner is great for running shorter distances (and on our list as best for running), these trainers are designed for much more dynamic movement and support. They are lightweight so as not to hinder your jumping and plyometric movements. The outside lug pattern is designed to allow you to transition from in the box, to outside training.
The uppers are made using a breathable perforated material to keep your feet from getting too hot during long training sessions. Also the great selections of styles and patterns will have you wanting to pick up a few pairs to align with whichever WOD is on deck. Nobull is quickly taking the lead in the pack for great footwear for serious athletes. Don't agree with our pick? Nobull has a 60-day return policy so there's no risk to picking up a pair and trying them for yourself.
What We Like
- Light and breathable
- Style variety
- Removable sock liner
What We Don’t Like
- Not the best for heavy compound lifts
- No high-top options
- Very narrow
Best Reebok CrossFit Shoes For Women - Reebok Nano X2
SPECS
- Sizes: 7-11
- Heel drop: 7mm
Why We Picked It
Reebok was one of the first major shoe companies to dip its toes into the functional fitness game. They were once the sponsor of the CrossFit Games and are still represented by one of the biggest names in CrossFit, Rich Froning. And, having a pair of Reebok Nano 2s signals your O.G. status. While some of Reebok’s CrossFit shoes have been less than stellar, they’ve regained their stride lately, and the Reebok Nano X2s are not only Reebok’s best CrossFit shoes but one of the best CrossFit shoes of all time.
Although I was a big fan of the Nano X1s, I was one of the many people who didn’t care for the high heel cup on that edition and the blisters that it caused. This problem has been addressed with the Nano X2s, which have excellent stability when you’re performing lateral movements and provide a lot of cushioning for running and jumping WODs.
What We Like
- Great shock absorption
- Incredibly comfortable
- Excellent cushioning
What We Don't Like
- Not ideal for heavy lifting
- Some complaints of durability
- Could have better protection for rope climbs
Best CrossFit Shoes With Ankle Support - NOBULL High-Top Trainer
SPECS
- Sizes:
- Heel drop: 5mm
Why We Picked It
CrossFit can be hard on your ankles. If you’re looking for trainers that are highly durable and offer excellent ankle support, the NOBULL High-Top Trainers will be your favorite gym buddies. NOBULL’s use of SuperFabric means that these shoes can handle workout after workout for years to come.
With the uppers coming up above the ankle, you have added security on lateral and jumping movements. Additionally, the flat soles with a versatile outsole pattern give you a stable base that is great for weightlifting. Although these are good for a variety of movements, you will probably be better served with a different pair if you are going to be running a lot.
What We Like
- Ankle security
- Very durable
- Secure, flat soles
- Stylish design
- Two sets of shoelaces included
What We Don’t Like
- Can be stiff at first
- Fairly expensive
- NOBULL never puts shoes on sale
Best CrossFit Shoes for Running - NOBULL Ripstop Runner
SPECS
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel drop: 11mm
Why We Picked It
I loathe running. Shuttle sprints, short distances, long distances—hate ’em all. To keep myself from cherry picking workouts where running is not programmed, I decided I needed a pair of shoes that made running bearable for me. I found them in the NOBULL Ripstop Runners. These shoes are not only light and comfortable for your runs, but they are also stable and durable enough to handle many of the movements that are programmed into CrossFit workouts.
The Ripstop Runner is more suited for shorter distances, but considering that most CrossFit workouts don’t include exceptionally long runs, it shouldn’t be a problem. The uppers are very breathable and durable. The breathability allows for a cool, dry run on warm days, while the durability lets them handle other movements. A drawback for these shoes for me is that they take longer to break in than I would like.
What We Like
- Grippy soles
- Light and breathable
- Great for everyday wear
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
- Lengthy break-in period
- Very narrow
Best Budget CrossFit Shoes for Women - Reebok Nanoflex TR
SPECS
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel drop: 4mm
Why We Picked It
Workout shoes aren’t cheap, especially for those of us who like to diversify our shoe portfolio. If you want a solid pair of trainers that don’t require you to refinance your house, take a look at the Reebok Nanoflex TR. With these shoes, Reebok offers a budget friendly version of its flagship CrossFit shoes, the Nanos. The Nanoflex TRs are versatile and comfortable and perform well in high-intensity cardio-based workouts.
These shoes are like the love child of a running shoe and a training shoe, and that makes them great to wear in and out of the gym. They fall a little flat when it comes to heavy lifting, rope climbs, and repeated lateral movements, however. Although they don’t offer the same durability as many of their more expensive counterparts, the Nanoflex TRs are a worthwhile economical option.
What We Like
- Great for high-intensity cardio workouts
- Affordable
- Excellent for wearing in and out of the gym
What We Don’t Like
- Not incredibly durable
- Very narrow
- Lack of stability
Best CrossFit Shoes for Wide Feet - GORUCK Ballistic Trainer
SPECS
- Sizes: 6-16
- Heel drop: 8mm
Why We Picked It
If your feet are uncomfortable during a workout, there is little else that you can concentrate on. For athletes with wider feet, finding shoes that don’t cramp and pinch their feet can be particularly challenging. Thankfully, GORUCK introduced the Ballistic Trainer, which is not only great for those who like a wider shoe, but they’re also tough shoes that can handle a multitude of CrossFit workouts.
Adding to the comfort level, these shoes come with two different insoles. One is a flatter insole while the other has some built-in arch support. Therefore, you can change them out based on personal preference or the type of workout you’re doing. Once they are broken in, these trainers will last for quite a while, but they do take a while to feel great on your feet.
What We Like
- Comfortable for wide feet
- Stable enough for heavy lifting
- Great to wear outside of the gym
- Large size selection
What We Don’t Like
- May feel clunky
- Long break-in period
- Heavier than a lot of other CrossFit shoes
Best Crossfit Shoes for Everyday Wear - Nike Metcon 7
SPECS
- Sizes: 5-15
- Heel drop: 4mm
Why We Picked It
When I first started CrossFit and began researching shoes, I assumed that I would go with Nike Metcons. Why? Because I’ve been a big fan of Nike most of my life. But I was not a fan of the first pair of Metcons that I bought, the 4s. I found them stiff and slick. Fortunately, Nike addressed those problems and others, and the Metcon 7s are not only Nike’s best CrossFit shoes but some of the best CrossFit shoes around.
I like that Nike has hit the sweet spot in width as these shoes fit both narrow and wide feet well. Given their name, it should come as no surprise that they handle movements associated with metabolic conditioning well, but they also do a great job of handling some weight. While they aren’t the best CrossFit shoes for long running sessions, they are more than suitable for short distances and great for everyday wear.
What We Like
- Side rope guard
- Excellent for metcons
- Large size selection
- Heel clips
- Lace securing loops
- Fun colorways
What We Don’t Like
- Fairly expensive
- Not great for running
- Laces aren’t extremely durable
Best Under Armour CrossFit Shoes - Women's UA TriBase Reign 4
SPECS
- Sizes: 5-12
- Heel drop: 2mm
Why We Picked It
Under Armour has recently been making big strides in the CrossFit shoe arena, and the TriBase Reign 4 is their best pair to date. These shoes are both comfortable and tough, so you won’t have to worry about your dogs barking while you put them through the variety of tests that CrossFit throws at you.
The TriBase Reign 4s handle weightlifting WODs with ease thanks to the minimal heel-to-toe drop and flat, stable soles. The soles also have grooves in the front that help you drive through your toes when you need to jump or pivot. Plus, the mesh uppers are tough while also being breathable.
What We Like
- Comfortable
- Stability for weightlifting
- Great soles
- Responsive midsoles
What We Don't Like
- Not great for running
- Somewhat clunky
BUY: Women's UA TriBase Reign 4
Best CrossFit Shoes for Narrow Feet - Inov-8 Women's F-Lite 235 V3
SPECS
- Sizes: 6-11
- Heel drop: 4mm
Why We Picked It
Inov-8 shoes have been adorning the feet of CrossFitters since the very early days. Through the years they have grown with the sport and still offer some of the best of the best in the game. What’s more, the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235 V3s are an excellent choice for CrossFitters with narrow feet.
These shoes are stable and have excellent grip. You will feel secure when performing lateral movements and box jumps, and they also provide a stable base for weightlifting and movements such as kettlebell swings. The high boot cup means that even those with a narrow foot won’t have to worry about the heels moving up and down.
What We Like
- Excellent for narrow feet
- Lightweight but durable
- No stitiching on midfoot
What We Don’t Like
- Fairly expensive
- Lack some stability
BUY: Inov-8 Women's F-lite 235 V3
What to Look for in CrossFit Shoes for Women
One of the main mantras of CrossFit is preparing for the unknowable. Therefore, you will want to make sure that your shoes can handle anything that your workout may throw at you. CrossFit shoes must not only be tough, but they also need to be versatile because one day you may be lifting heavy weights and climbing a rope, while the next you may be zooming around a track and jumping on top of a wooden box.
Versatility Is Key
The scope of exercise that may be incorporated into a single workout is large. When you multiply that by several training sessions a month, the number can be massive. This is a unique feature to account for when buying your shoes.
Therefore, you will want shoes with soles that are flat enough to provide a stable base for lifting but also with enough gripability to keep you safe during box jumps. Additionally, a solid pair of CrossFit shoes will need to be durable enough to handle the friction from a rope climb but flexible enough to be comfortable during runs.
FAQs About CrossFit Shoes for Women
Do CrossFit shoes make a difference?
While you can certainly do a lot of exercises that are programmed into a CrossFit workout in a variety of shoes (or no shoes at all, for that matter), shoes specifically designed for CrossFit will help you perform better across the broad spectrum of exercises that you will be called upon to do.
Can you wear CrossFit shoes everyday?
Definitely. They are designed for versatility, and are comfortable. CrossFit shoes are great for errands and other everyday activities.
Do you wear socks with CrossFit shoes?
Whereas wearing socks or not is ultimately a personal preference, they are recommended for CrossFit shoes. Socks will provide an extra layer of comfort, and they will protect you from blisters. Furthermore, many athletic socks will wick away the sweat.
Why are CrossFit shoes flat?
Flatter soles help you perform lateral movements safely, and they provide a stable base for weightlifting.
About the Author
Sosha is a staff writer for ACTIVE.com and a CrossFit enthusiast. Her work’s been featured in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, MUTHA Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, and The Charlotte Observer. Her weekly column, Soshally Awkward, is featured on the nationally-syndicated radio show, Bob & Sheri.
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