Most CrossFitters want to lead an active lifestyle and get into the habit of working out regularly. Another widely popular exercise amongst CrossFitters is running. That is mainly because both running and CrossFit involve arduous physical activities.
However, there is a fundamental difference between CrossFit shoes and running shoes. CrossFit shoes are a bit on the heavier side as they have to provide support for heavy workouts. On the other hand, running shoes are relatively lighter. But does that mean you have to buy two different types of shoes? Thankfully, no!
Some CrossFit shoes are also suitable for running. To save you the trouble of looking for them, we have brought you our list of best CrossFit shoes for running. Now, let us see what bridges the gap between the two types of shoes.Buying Guide
Since the two types of activities are fundamentally different, you have to sacrifice some features in your footwear to use them for both activities. However, protection is vital in CrossFit, so it is better to sacrifice a little weight to ensure adequate support. Here are some of the factors that you should consider when buying CrossFit shoes that are also adaptable to running.
Weight
Since the required footwear is fundamentally different, you have to find a middle ground to settle. And it would be best if you based that middle ground in terms of weight. A typical running shoe is relatively lightweight to offer quick movements. However, the CrossFit shoes hold a bit more weight to them than running shoes.
It would help if you considered those CrossFit shoes built with lightweight materials so that they are not too heavy to run in them. As you go through our list, you will see that many lightweight CrossFit shoes are just as suitable for running.
Durability
Durability is a no-brainer when it comes to footwear. While running shoes have minimal effects on your shoe’s durability, CrossFit can put quite a strain on its durability. So, make sure that you do not trade your shoe’s durability for some other features.
Design
While running shoes and CrossFit shoes may look alike, there is a fundamental difference in their design. CrossFit shoes’ design is primarily for handling side to side activities. On the other hand, running shoes mainly handle a heel-to-toe action.
You will have to choose a pair with such a design that can provide durability and flexibility for all types of CrossFit activities. And at the same time, it should have a low cut lightweight design for running.
Stability
When running, you need your footwear to provide you a stable footing; otherwise, you may trip and hurt yourself. And many CrossFit exercises need you to work with weights, which requires proper support and stability. No matter the form of the exercise, you need to have a stable footing.
So, keep in mind to choose that footwear that provides you with a stable footing.
Image | Product | Features | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Nike Free Trainer 5.0 Training Shoes |
| $ | |
 | Nike Metcon 6 |
| $$ | |
 | Reebok Crossfit Speed Tr Cross-Trainer Shoe |
| $ | |
 | Nike Metcon Sport |
| $ | |
 | Reebok Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Sneaker |
| $$ | |
 | NOBULL Training Shoes and Styles |
| $$ | |
 | Under Armour Tribase Reign 2.0 Cross Trainer |
| $$ | |
 | Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v3 |
| $$ |
1. Nike Free Trainer 5.0 Training Shoes
What makes a great CrossFit shoe that is also suitable for running? It is that shoe that is durable and lightweight but not at the cost of ankle support. Such a shoe is Nike’s Free Trainer 5.0 training shoes.
Nike has integrated this slick-designed shoe for a broader range of motion and support. The Free Trainer 5.0 features a hexagonal midsole design that provides a controlled multidirectional movement.
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2. Nike Metcon 6
One of Nike’s flagship products is the Metcon series. The previous model, Metcon 5, was an excellent, well-rounded model that offered enhanced stability and sufficient flexibility. To follow it up, Nike did not want to mess with their successful project. Instead, they brought subtle changes and improvements and brought out the Metcon 6.
The previous model had a breathability issue. But with the Metcon 6 having 18% more, breathability is no longer an issue. It is the perfect shoe for both CrossFit exercises and running.
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3. Reebok Crossfit Speed Tr Cross-Trainer Shoe
If you are looking to buy a single pair of shoes for both running and CrossFit purposes, you should look for one with a low-cut design. That is because the low-cut design helps you run more comfortably. Reebok’s Crossfit Speed Tr is one of the best CrossFit shoes suitable for running because of its low-cut and lightweight design.
It also features a cushion at the heel, which gives it an ideal level of shock absorption. Thanks to its metal foot flex grooves, the shoe provides a better toe splay.
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4. Nike Metcon Sport
It is the first product in the Metcon line that features a Velcro closure and a slip-on feature. It allows the user to lock down their ankles without the need for laces. Thanks to its reasonable pricing, many fitness enthusiasts welcome this product.
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5. Reebok Crossfit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Sneaker
The CrossFit Nano 8.0 is highly regarded amongst fitness enthusiasts due to its versatility and comfort. This sleek-looking shoe provides a snug fit. Another reason for its popularity is its supportive heel and flexible forefoot.
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6. NOBULL Training Shoes
Nobull’s training shoes feature a clean and minimalist design. You can use it in your day-to-day life and for CrossFit as well. So, if you are not sure what you want, go with Nobull’s training shoes. You cannot go wrong with them.
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7. Under Armour Tribase Reign 2.0 Cross Trainer
In the CrossFit community, the Tribase Reign 2.0 is known as one of the best training shoes. With its targetted design, the newer version far outruns its predecessor and can give its competitors a good run for their money.
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8. Inov-8 F-Lite 235 v3
If you want a shoe that can take whatever you throw at it and more, the F-lite 235 V3 is for you. Thanks to its flexible and lightweight construction, it provides a wide range of motions suitable for CrossFit and running.
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Every type of exercise has different sets of criteria when it comes to equipment. For instance, CrossFitters need footwears that are stable and supportive and can provide superior protection against any injury. On the other hand, running shoes need to be lightweight, durable, and comfortable. But when you look at it, you will see that the two types of shoes share similar requirements.
So, while if you want to buy separate shoes for these activities, it is not necessary. If you know how to pick, CrossFit shoes are great for running. And we hope that after going through our list of best CrossFit shoes for running, you certainly know how to pick the perfect pair.