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Reebok Nano X1 vs. Nike Metcon 7 vs. NOBULL Trainer: Differences and Reviews 2024

Reebok Nano X1 vs. Nike Metcon 7 vs. NOBULL Trainer: Differences and Reviews 2024

    With the rise of functional fitness training came the growth and formulation of cross training shoes.Whether you’re a veteran CrossFit warrior or relatively new to the game, shoes play a crucial role in getting the most effective workout possible.Reebok Nano X1,Nike Metcon 7 and NOBULL Trainer are all incredibly popular cross-training shoes.All of these models have their respective lists of pros and cons.Which model is best for lifting heavy, which should I use for CrossFit, which is best for running?Are Reebok Nanos good for running?Is Reebok Nano X1 good for CrossFit?Are Nike Metcons good for working out?Can you run with Metcon 7?Reebok Nano X1 vs. Nike Metcon 7 vs. NOBULL Trainer:which is best for CrossFit?In this article, I’m going to be comparing all of the key details that you need to know before investing in the Reebok Nano X1 versus the Nike Metcon 7 versus the NOBULL Trainer,including performance, construction, sizing, durability, and price.

Cover Photo:Victor Freitas on unsplash.com
 

Reebok Nano X1 Review

Google Users Rating: 4.4/5

Price: $70-$130

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Source:reebok.com

Reebok’s Nano line of CrossFit focused footwear promises the ability to cross through barriers and push wearers to the next level of fitness. Reebok is now on the 11th iteration of the Nano, a shoe that has become nothing short of symbolic in the CrossFit world. Perfected by elite athletes, Reebok Nano X1 Shoes are made for anyone who loves to train hard.It is not a running shoe but a functional fitness shoe designed to make your gym workout more productive and enjoyable.

This model features Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam midsole which accommodates moderately loaded lifting, versatile training, and shorter runs fairly well.It is not designed for long distance running but performs well when used for short interval sprints or lateral cuts.  It is best suited for the individual looking to perform exercises such as box jumps, lateral shuffle, drop jumps, and general strength training. If you’re a lifter that wants versatility and decent stability with your training shoe, then I think the Reebok Nano X1 is worth it for you. 

ProsCons
  • Durable textile upper survives running, burpees, rope climbs, and more.

  • Perfect balance of cushion and stability.

  • Comes in more than 20 colorways.

  • More versatile, less crossfit-specific.

  • Plenty of toe space.

  • Cushioned for short runs.

  • Great traction on gym floors.

  • Stylish enough for casual wear.

  • Lightweight heel clip provides added stability and slip for handstand push-ups.

  • Much lighter than other training shoes.

  • Durable and breathable.

  • Heel tab is higher than average and may cause blisters.

  • Shape of sole gives instability underfoot.

  • Feels a bit squishy and clunky at first, compared to previous Nanos.

  • Tongue slides a bit.

Where to buy:

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Nike Metcon 7 Review

Google Users Rating: 4.5/5

Price: $99.97-$130

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Source:nike.com

Nike has taken their popular Metcon training shoe and shaved down the weight, creating a shoe that still boasts features for rope climbs, handstand push-ups, and heavy lifts, just a bit more streamlined and, well, lighter. The Nike Metcon 7 claims to be the toughest and most stable Metcon yet- the gold standard for weight training.The Metcon 7s have what all the other Metcons have, which is a firm, stable heel ideal for squats, and a cushioned foam forefoot in the midsole that makes it ideal for plyometrics and running.

The Nike React foam gives you a little ‘pep in your step’ and on the 7, as compared to the Metcon 6, the revamped rubber wraps support the arch for better grip during activities like rope climbs.The Metcon 7’s medial side features an elongated rope wrap, great for climbing to new heights – both literally and figuratively. And you can move assured that your shoes stay tied thanks to a convenient lace lock tab.Similar to the Nike Metcon 3 shoes, the Nike Metcon 7 has an extremely breathable upper. 

ProsCons
  • Flexible enough for running and jumping.

  • Sporty appearance.

  • Firm base ideal for squatting.

  • Updated React foam midsole boosts comfort while still remaining springy.

  • Extra-thick media rope grip for abrasion resistance.

  • Hook-and-loop closure on laces keeps them locked down during WODs.

  • Amazing return policy.

  • Runs a little narrow.

  • Might get squeaky after several wears.

  • Heel can be uncomfortable for heel strikers when running.

  • Not great for intervals of running longer than 400 meters.

Where to buy:

NOBULL Trainer Review

Google Users Rating: /

Price: $109-$169

Source:nobullproject.com

NoBull Training Shoes are a minimalist specialized CrossFit shoe to the scene. They have become incredible popular amongst CrossFit enthusiasts, due mainly that they truly live up to the name they have given to their brand.The Trainer comes in several height levels: low, mid and high.Over the years, the brand has expanded its line substantially to include more designs and patterns, both on the shoe and on the sole.

These shoes have an upper that is manufactured from NoBull’s trademark “SuperFabric”. This fabric is an elastic, flexible, stretchy material that provides both enhanced breathability and a lighter overall weight for the shoe. Also abrasion-resistant, these shoes are not prone to wearing out or breaking down quickly.With a moderate spread in the foot, whether you have narrow or wide feet, you’re going to feel comfortable and supported in the trainers. They have a ton of color ways so you can’t get bored with them and they’ll really take any kind of beating you throw at them.

NOBULL Trainers aren’t the most versatile CrossFit shoes,but they do have the most stable base for lifting, thanks to the minimal midsole and snug insole. This means NOBULL Trainers aren’t great for running or jumping, as they provide limited arch support, shock absorption, and energy return. 

ProsCons
  • Performs well across variety of exercises.

  • Flat sole provides stability for lifting weights.

  • Lightweight and breathable but still durable.

  • Seamless upper is super durable.

  • 4 mm drop for stable support across multiple movements.

  • Stylish look works while training or socializing.

  • Wide variety of looks to choose from.

  • Minimal midsole creates an ultra-stable lifting surface.

  • Molded sockliner hugs the foot but is still breathable.

  • Despite having a ton of colorways, many of the designs can seem bland.

  • Soles are too flat for some athletes.

  • Not great for running.

  • Expensive for a seemingly basic-looking shoe.

  • SuperFabric doesn’t promote optimal breathability.

  • A little uncomfortable when you first put them on.

Where to buy:

Reebok Nano X1 vs. Nike Metcon 7 vs. NOBULL Trainer:Comparision Side by Side

1.Performance


Lifting Weights

Reebok Nano X1 - The Reebok Nano X1s aren’t the absolute best shoes for lifting weights.There’s not so much cushion that you’ll feel unstable during squats.If you’re doing any type of heavy lifting, whether you’re doing straight sets or supersets, you might be better off with a flatter, more minimal shoe.

Nike Metcon 7 - The Metcon 7 is the dream when it came to lifting. Subtle improvements in heel and midsole features have produced a shoe that works for both heavy weight training, and longer Metcon training work with barbells, dumbells and kettlebells.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer offers a 4mm heel-to-drop with a high-density midsole that supports loads well over 500 lbs and is consistent throughout for the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel.They feel great during all types of lifting, including powerlifting and bodybuilding workouts,and even the Olympic lifts.

CrossFit Workouts

Reebok Nano X1 - Reebok Nano X1 has the lightest CrossFit-focused construction features. The upper isn’t the toughest and this model lacks key details for supporting things like rope climbs and other CrossFit-focused movements like handstand push-ups. It will work for most CrossFit workouts, but it falls short compared to the other two models here.

Nike Metcon 7 - The go-to choice when it comes to CrossFit sneakers, Nike Metcon has unshakeable stability and ground-gripping traction, making these shoes ideal for any multidirectional movement. The Metcon's revamped midsole rubber wraps up your arch for intense grip during rope climbs.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer has three key aspects going for it when it comes to supporting CrossFit workouts. First, the Superfabric does a good job at resisting abrasion and it’s rare to see this model rip from rope climbs, burpees, and other movements. Second, the midsole is plenty stable for both static and more dynamic strength work. Third, the extended outsole layer does provide a bit of rope grip through the midfoot.

Versatile Training

Reebok Nano X1 - Reebok Nano X1’s Floatride Energy Foam midsole has high level of responsiveness. The outsole in the Nano X1 also features a full rubber lug pattern which helps to contribute to the tread that this model provides when jumping, cutting, and doing other forms of bounding or athletic-focused work.

Nike Metcon 7 - Nike Metcon 7 is definitely the frontrunner for this style of training. The forefoot grooves in the outsole give this model’s toebox a super flexible feeling and the Nike React Foam adds a really great level of responsiveness to this shoe’s ability to absorb and produce for into the ground.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer is also an adequate option, but the high-density foam midsole may be uncomfortable for longer versatile sessions. This model is lightweight which helps to contribute to its usefulness in this training context, but as a whole, it’s fairly limited with its capabilities when it comes to overall ground feedback and responsiveness.

Running

For tackling shorter runs, all of these shoes are okay and will work. Basically, if you have bouts that are programmed in your classes or CrossFit workouts, then these shoes can perform well. 

Reebok Nano X1 - The Reebok Nano X1 works well for runs up to 3-5 miles and will provide you with a much more comfortable ride. It still falls short compared to a true running shoe, but compared to the other models it’s the superior choice for running. 

Nike Metcon 7 - If you’re interested in running in the Nike Metcon 7, then I’d suggest capping runs to about 1-mile at a time or less. Despite having a more responsive midsole, this model is still not going to be your best bet for longer runs. They work well for shorter runs.Nike Metcon 7 is for more casual speed work.

NOBULL Trainer - This shoe can get pretty uncomfortable pretty fast for longer runs and if you do have a heel strike bias, then this will be even more apparent during your running sessions in the NOBULL Trainer.For runs, I’d suggest capping your distances to about 800-meters or less in the NOBULL Trainer.

2.Construction & Materials


Outsole

All three of these cross-training shoes feature full rubber outsoles. The Reebok Nano X1 and NOBULL Trainer both have a lug patterning throughout their outsole that provides a decent level of traction on a variety of surfaces. 

Of the three models, the Nike Metcon 7’s is the most unique. The forefoot has exposed midsole areas and is really flexible and the mid-foot has a reworked concave construction. On the heel, there’s also a cutout where you can see the Nike Hyperlift. This construction aspect gives this model a weightlifting shoe look.

None of these models have issues with tread or gripping the floor, so whether you’re training indoors or outdoor, then you should be safe in all of these models and you likely won’t experience slippage issues. 

Midsole

In each of these shoes, the midsole construction is starkly different which is neither a good thing nor a bad thing, they’re just all very different. 

Reebok Nano X1 - The Reebok Nano X1 features a Floatride Energy Foam midsole.This foam is more medium-density and you can compress it slightly easier.

Nike Metcon 7 - The Nike Metcon 7 feature Nike React Foam throughout its midsole and has an extended outsole layer that wraps on the mid-foot medially and laterally over this material. The heel has a built-in Hyperlift insert and TPU heel clip which adds to this model’s overall stack height.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer features a high-density midsole that wraps the entirety of the shoe. This midsole provides an adequate amount of stability and is solid because its “levelness” helps provide a balanced feeling when displacing weight through the foot when training.

Upper Construction

Each shoe’s upper construction is drastically different. They all offer various levels of durability and breathability.

Reebok Nano X1 - In the traditional Reebok Nano X1, you’re going to get a softer and more breathable mesh material. The upper in this model is lightweight and maneuvers fairly well but does fall a bit short for long-term durability.

Nike Metcon 7 - There is a chain-link mesh in the forefoot and mid-foot and synthetic layers over the toe box for additional durability. The lightweight mesh upper has tough overlays in areas that are prone to wear and tear such as the toe box and lace eyelets. Whilst the chain patterned upper is tough, breathable and flexible, the extra overlays have already started to show some signs of weakness and wear after some long rope climb workouts. This is visible in the toe box, on the rubber overlays, and also in the sole unit too.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer features SuperFabric throughout the entirety of the shoe. SuperFabric is composed by taking normal fabric, then implementing tiny guard plates within that fabric. This type of material provides the outer construction with a lightweight and rigid material that is designed to be highly resistant to abrasions.The only caveat that some lifters can run into with the Superfabric is that it can get fairly warm in hotter training settings.

Insole

All three of these models feature removable insoles.This is a good thing for those that want to add in their own inserts.

Laces and Tongue

Reebok Nano X1 - The Reebok Nano X1 has six main eyelets and a seventh for lace lock with a thinner tongue. 

Nike Metcon 7 - This model has five eyelets and the three lateral eyelets utilize Nike’s Flywire technology. The tongue in the Nike Metcon 7 also features a lace-lock system to help prevent the laces from coming undone mid-workout.

NOBULL Trainer - The NOBULL Trainer features a lightweight tongue with five reinforced eyelets. This shoe’s midfoot is fairly secure and the tongue doesn’t slide much despite being lighter in construction.The tongue is thin and breathable.

3.Sizing

All three of these models fit slightly differently due to their last constructions, however, most lifters should be safe going true-to-size in all of the models.

Reebok Nano X1 - The width is good, the length is good, and overall these are comfortable.But the boot can cause friction for some despite them fitting well in regard to length and width. 

Nike Metcon 7 - True-to-Size, but more narrow last. Not a great option for wider feet.,so I do think wider footed athletes and lifters will stay have a tough time fitting into this model.This model fits very similar to the Nike Metcon 6, so if you’ve ever worn that model, then opt for the same size in the Nike Metcon 7.

NOBULL Trainer - True-to-size. If you’re in-between size, then you should be safe going up a size with most NOBULL Trainers whether they’re low or high-top.

4.Durability

Reebok Nano X1,Nike Metcon 7, and NOBULL Trainer are all fairly durable in their own ways.Each model has features to prolong the shoe’s life in the context of training and functional fitness.

The Reebok Nano X1 and NOBULL Trainer have awesome durability across the board. Their upper does a fantastic job at not ripping or fraying from abrasion and they should last you at a minimum of 6-months if you’re going super hard in them. Both of my models are still kicking after 8-12 months.

The Nike Metcon 7’s durability is pretty standard. The additional mid-foot rope guards add a nice layer of protection to this model and as a whole, these should last you a while. 

Comparision Table


Reebok Nano X1Nike Metcon 7NOBULL Trainer
Heel Drop4 mm4 mm4 mm
Cushioning typeFloatride cushioningReact foamEVA foam
Stability★★★★★★
Versatility★★★★★
Who is it for

Crossfitters,anyone who wants an all-around shoe for multiple activities and people who enjoy more cushioning in cross-training shoes.

Athletes looking for a responsive, lightweight shoe.

Anyone interested in training in a shoe that has a more natural foot feel.

Trainees who want a wide heel for stability will like the wide flat heel with an inner plate here.

People who prefer minimalist training shoes

Athletes looking for a weightlifting shoe they can wear anywhere

Conclusion

The Reebok Nano X1, Nike Metcon 7 and NOBULL Trainer are all decent cross-training shoes and their performance will scale based on how you plan to use them. If you want a more athletic-fitting shoe, then opt for the Nike Metcon 7 and if you like having a deeper boot and wider toe box, go for the Reebok Nano X1.The NOBULL Trainers are well-suited to those who do CrossFit and lift weights. They come at a high price, but are well-loved by those who wear them.

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2022-07-19 20:43449