CrossFit Shoes: Buying Tips (2024 Guide)
CrossFit is a discipline that is growing in popularity every day, attracting more and more followers looking for performance and well-being. In this demanding sport, the choice of footwear is a crucial factor in ensuring comfort, safety and efficient movement.
You may be wondering what are the best CrossFit shoes, how to choose them, and what is the difference between CrossFit shoes and other types of sports shoes. In this article, we'll answer these questions and more to help you find the perfect pair of shoes for CrossFit.
Why do we use specific shoes for CrossFit?
The difference between CrossFit shoes, sneakers, and running shoes
the High intensity fitness program It is a demanding sport that combines Weight lifting, Gymnastics And Sports Games. Therefore, CrossFit shoes must offer a compromise between performance, comfort And supports.
Athletic shoes and running shoes, on the other hand, are designed for specific activities and do not necessarily meet the needs of CrossFit practitioners.
For example, running shoes are often lighter and offer better performance paddedbut they lack stability And based on Sustainability For strength and lifting exercises.
The importance of choosing shoes to prevent injuries
When practicing CrossFit, shoe selection plays a major role in injury prevention. An ill-fitting or poor-quality shoe can increase the risk of strains, sprains, fractures, or tendonitis.
It is therefore essential to choose a pair of shoes designed specifically for CrossFit, which provide good support to reduce the risk of injury and allow you to train safely.
Which CrossFit shoes should you buy?
To help you make the best choice, we have selected the 3 best pairs of CrossFit shoes currently available on the market. Each of them was chosen for its niche QualityHa price Reasonable, durable and positive user reviews.
Amazon Affiliate Link. Prices mentioned in this article are indicative and subject to change.
Criteria to consider when purchasing
When choosing your CrossFit shoes, several criteria should be considered. there Shoe You must provide a adhesion To prevent slipping during exercises.
the He falls (the difference in height between the heel and the ball of the foot) should adapt to your needs: low drop boost stabilitywhile a high drop can help with cushioning.
there Flexibility Shoes are also important to allow optimal freedom of movement during gymnastics exercises.
Finally, the Ventilation And the Sustainability These are the main factors that should not be overlooked.
Image source © Docteur-Fitness.com
Desired features in CrossFit shoes
Here are some features to look for in your CrossFit shoes:
- Durable and grippy sole for good force transfer;
- Drop adapted to your needs (usually between 4 and 6 mm);
- Good foot support, especially at the arch level;
- Flexible shoe allows a wide range of motion;
- Good ventilation to prevent overheating of the feet;
- Durable materials that withstand intense training sessions.
Average prices of Crossfit shoes
The average price of CrossFit shoes varies depending on the brand and model features. You can expect to pay between €80 and €200 for a high-quality pair. High-end shoes can cost upwards of $200, but they often offer superior performance and longer life.
Differences between CrossFit shoes for men and women
There are some differences between men's and women's CrossFit shoes, especially in terms of shape and design. Women's shoes are generally narrower and lighter, with a slightly higher heel to accommodate the specific characteristics of the female body shape. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for your gender to ensure the perfect fit and adequate support during workouts.
Image source © Docteur-Fitness.com
Top crossfit shoes
Well-known and lesser-known brands
Among the most famous brands of CrossFit shoes: Reebok, NikeAnd Adidas company. However, there are also less well-known brands in France, e.g Nobel, which offers quality models. It is important not to limit yourself to the most popular brands and explore different options to find the shoe that suits your needs.
Here are the main shoe brands and models:
| Brand | Popular models |
|---|---|
| Nike | Metcon |
| Reebok | Nano |
| Inov-8 | F-Lite, Bare-XF, Road-Xtreme |
| Under the armor | Reign of Tripes, Hoover Apex |
| Asics | Belief |
| Nobull | All NOBULL brand shoes are designed for CrossFit. |
| Adidas company | Weightlifting, CrazyPower, CrazyTrain |
| New balance | Minimus, MX20v7 |
| Puma | Fuse |
| Meryl | Trail glove, steam glove |
| Helet | Cross training circuit |
| Strike-Mvmnt | Fog boss |
| Zero shoes | Brio, Teraflex |
| Vibram five fingers | V-TRAIN, KSO EVO, EL-X |
| Automix | Ninja warrior, ultimate trainer |
Barefoot and simple shoes
Barefoot shoes and minimalist shoes are increasingly popular among CrossFit practitioners. They provide a feeling of being closer to the ground and allow for better reception. However, they offer less protection and cushioning than traditional CrossFit shoes. If you are interested in this type of shoe, it is recommended that you try it out and gradually incorporate it into your training to get used to the different sensations.
Custom shoes
Some brands like Nike, with their custom Nike Metcons service, offer custom CrossFit shoes, allowing you to choose colors and materials to create a unique model. However, these options may be more expensive and are not always available for all models. There are also third-party websites that specialize in shoe customization.
Cheap Crossfit Shoes
It is possible to find affordable CrossFit shoes, especially by looking for models that are on sale or at the high end of the series. However, it is important not to sacrifice quality and performance to save money. Consider reading user reviews and trying on shoes before purchasing to make sure they meet your needs.
Who Should Buy CrossFit Shoes?
CrossFit shoes are for anyone who practices the sport regularly and wants to benefit from the support and performance tailored to their needs. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, investing in a quality pair of shoes will allow you to improve your performance and reduce your risk of injury.
Video credit © Team Jack – YouTube
Your frequently asked questions
What is the average lifespan of a pair of CrossFit shoes?
The lifespan of a pair of CrossFit shoes varies depending on the quality of materials and frequency of use, but is estimated to be around one to two years.
Can you use CrossFit shoes for long distance running?
CrossFit shoes are designed to provide a balance of stability, comfort, and performance during CrossFit sessions, and are not ideal for long-distance running. If you run regularly, it is best to have a specific pair of shoes for that activity.
How do you maintain and clean your CrossFit shoes?
To clean CrossFit shoes, use a soft brush and soapy water to remove dirt and stains. Avoid putting them in the washing machine, as this may damage the material and structure of the shoes. Let your shoes air dry, away from direct heat sources.
Are CrossFit shoes suitable for people with foot problems, such as flat feet?
CrossFit shoes generally provide good arch support and may be suitable for people with flat feet. However, it is best to consult a podiatrist or professional sales representative for advice appropriate to your condition.
How do you know if a CrossFit shoe is too small or too big?
A well-fitting CrossFit shoe should leave about an inch between the tips of your toes and the tip of the shoe to allow for some movement during exercises. If your toes are touching the tip of the shoe or feel pressure on the sides, the shoe is likely too small. If your foot moves a lot inside the shoe, it may be too big.
Is it better to have laces or tape for your CrossFit shoes?
It depends on personal preference. Laces provide better customizability, while hook and loop closures are quicker and easier to adjust. Choose what suits you in terms of comfort and practicality.
The last word
Choosing a good pair of CrossFit shoes is essential to maximize performance, comfort, and safety during your workouts. Take the time to understand the key features of CrossFit shoes, such as support, durability, and flexibility, as well as details about your body type and training style. Feel free to try several styles and read reviews to make sure you find the perfect pair for you. With the right shoes, you'll be ready to take on all of CrossFit's challenges and achieve your fitness goals.
CrossFit Shoes: Buying Tips (2024 Guide)
