Training for my next Hyrox competition is officially underway, and as a Hyrox beginner (well, it’s my first time solo, at least), one of my main focuses this year has been which of the best cross training shoes I should be lacing up to race.
Hyrox is the definition of cross training — competitors complete eight 1km runs with a functional station sandwiched between each — so your shoe must competently handle different types of multi-directional movement and pace. That means dialing into factors like grip, stack, comfort, weight and cushioning when choosing the best shoe for Hyrox.
So far, I’ve been training in the Puma Fuse 2.0, but the recent release of the Reebok Nano Gym has totally changed things up. I’ve been testing the shoe with CrossFit and Hyrox workouts for several months. Here’s everything you need to know about the Reebok Nano Gym shoe — and why, like any Love Island contestant ever, my head has officially been turned.
What are the best shoes for Hyrox?
It’s fair to think running shoes are your best bet for Hyrox, but actually, the race is a mix of functional training, including strength exercises, body weight, cardio machines and running, so your shoe has a lot to handle. For many, it throws up the question of whether you should select a pair of running shoes or CrossFit shoes.
There are some CrossFit shoes you wouldn’t run 8km in, like the Nike Metcon 9s, which are far too sturdy and stiff to handle more than 1km. But some chunkier pairs of running shoes featuring high stacks like Asics don’t provide enough stability for stations like wall balls or grip for sled pushes.
A hybrid shoe is your best bet, and that’s where the Reebok Nano Gym shoe excels. Here’s why.
1. Comfort
Comfort is paramount. You’ll likely be racing for over an hour in the open heats, and the average individual finishes a solo effort in around 90 minutes. However, too much cushioning can throw off stability during functional stations, so I would always avoid heavy cushioning or an excessive arch in your shoe.
I’ve read a few reviews advising to avoid the Puma Fuse shoe, which handles grip and stability but lacks comfort; I’ve personally found the Fuse manages the kilometers well enough, but when I started testing the Reebok Nano Gym this summer, I could feel the difference immediately.
The Reebok Nano Gym shoe offers enough pliability in the forefoot and plush heel cushioning without reducing the foot-ground connection too much. Reebok nailed the look and feel of a running shoe, but in their words, “With the DNA of a training shoe to give you the flexibility to work out how you want to.”
The shoe offers true versatility for HIIT, plyometrics, basic weightlifting and running. And they’re not heavy — a unisex size 9 weighs just 12oz, for example.
During every run, I’ve found enough bounce and flexibility thanks to the EVA midsole and rubber outsole; I still have enough traction for shuttle runs (not a Hyrox thing, but definitely applicable to CrossFit) and sled pushes and pulls.
For sizing, I’d go true to size, or a size up if you like to wear sports socks while you train.
2. Grip
Grip is key during a Hyrox race, especially for the sled push and sled pull, but also around the track. It’s a personal preference, so, ultimately, the amount of grip will come down to the training experience in your chosen shoe.
The Reebok Nano Gym offers just enough grip for me, and I’ve been using Hyrox master trainer Jake Dearden’s exclusive Hyrox training plan to test these shoes out at Hyrox weight. However, take them outside into wetter conditions and it’s a different story. Thankfully, Hyrox is an indoor event and you won’t face the elements outdoors. On a sled track and the running track itself, you're safe.
3. Heel drop
In my guide to cross training shoes vs weightlifting shoes, I discuss heel drop in more detail. Drop refers to the difference between heel and forefoot heights. In the case of Hyrox, you want to feel comfortable while you run, but if you strike with your heel, slightly more heel drop may be beneficial.
A heel drop of 5-10mm is pretty standard for Hyrox; the Reebok Nano Gym has an 8mm midsole drop which is enough for me to transition between stations where I need to feel grounded — wall balls and burpee broad jumps — and running.
The heel counter is rigid and sits at the heel of the shoe to wrap the heel for stability. I’ve experienced minor slipping with the Reebok Nano Gym, but not enough to consider changing shoes.
When I first tested them, I found the fit snug and thought I might need a half size up, but over the months, they’ve loosened up, including around the heels. This is worth consideration when picking the best shoe for Hyrox, as sled pushes, rows and running could be compromised without adequate heel support.
It’s easy enough to test this during training, and if you’re unsure, add extra load to stations to put the shoe properly through its paces. For many stations, it’s sensible to train at a heavier weight than competition to help give you a strength and endurance edge, but in this case, it can also help you determine if your shoe is up to the task.
The Nano Gym uses a lace closure system, mesh upper and bootie construction, so for the most part, my feet feel stable and my ankles supported even during lateral and multi-directional movement.
4. Stack height
I’ve touched on this above, but stack refers to cushioning or material between your foot and the floor, which can be plush or barefoot-style and measures at the forefoot and heel.
Weightlifters love foot-ground connection, so a barefoot feel or lower stack height may be ideal for these types of gym-goers — Vivobarefoot, Converse, or Vans, for example. Long-distance runners might prefer lashings of plush foam, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 running shoe (41.5mm stack), Nike Vaporfly (40mm), or Nike Alphafly 3.
I’m yet to confirm the exact stack heights for the Reebok Nano Gym, but I’ve spoken to some who think the Nano Gym stack pitches the knees too far forward during weightlifting, negatively impacting stability during lifts and driving too much forward propulsion.
I haven’t had this problem, and I don’t think it would be a problem for the exercises you’ll find at Hyrox, but I wouldn’t choose this shoe for out-and-out strength training. If you want to stick with Reebok for strength training, I recommend the Reebok Nano X4.
Reebok Nano Gym: Verdict
Reebok adopts a tapered toe box and medium arch support for the Nano Gym shoe. For those with wide or flat feet — this might not be the best option for you. Hyrox requires versatility, some plyometrics and multidirectional motion, which is exactly what the Nano Gym excels at. I immediately experience the lightweight pliability of the shoes the second I tie them up, and I could genuinely walk for hours in them.
If you’re looking for a cross training shoe that you can get down and dirty with at Hyrox this year, I’d recommend giving the Reebok Nano Gym a chance. For those looking for a strength training shoe with a minimalist feel, you won’t find it in the Nano Gym, nor would you stick them on for those long miles.
What shoes do athletes wear for Hyrox?
Given that Puma sponsors Hyrox, it’s fair to say you’ll see many Puma Deviate Nitro or Puma Velocity Nitro shoes on race day. I haven’t tested either, but I have it on good authority from our fitness team that they’re epic. Plus, both pairs are favorites amongst pro Hyrox athletes. Other popular brands include Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 and Brooks Hyperion Tempo. For me? I’ll be rolling up in the Reebok Nano Gym.
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