Shop the latest deals on the Metcon 8 and Reebok Nano X2 below! SHOP METCON 8: fave.co/3MyfCrG SHOP NANO X2: shrsl.com/4al3p The above are affiliate links; if you buy through these links, I may receive a small commission on the sale. I buy ALL of the products featured on this channel and an affiliate link is NOT a sponsored link. I don't take money from companies and the commissions from affiliates help me buy more products and produce more content. At TF2, you have my promise that every review is performed independently and companies have no idea I'm reviewing their gear until it goes live Either way, use the link or don't! I just want to make sure you find the best workout shoes for your individual needs and wants. Reach out if you ever have additional questions!
Hey brother... I support your commitment to sharing your professional opinions on footwear. Stay strong and continue your passion, it will only be a matter of time before you are the official go to for anything associated with with footwear. You own this niche and with patience, more and more will realize how important you and your knowledge is.
This comment made my day and helps keeps the energy flowing! I freaking appreciate you sharing that and supporting the channel/brand. If I can ever do anything for you, don't hesitate to reach out!
I would love to say more than “you nailed it,” but that’s exactly what you did. Ever since I found your channel I will not purchase a shoe until it’s Jake approved.
To date, I've worn nothing except Nike, but after trying on various pairs and sizes of the Metcon 7/8 and Nano XI/X2, I bought Nano XI in size 11 which is my true size. I had to move up to 11 1/2 in the Nike and although I had more toe room I was now getting heel slip which is a no go! Also, they felt restrictive and too stiff for my liking. The Nano XI fit perfect and I felt my foot secure while also giving me the room, comfort, & breathability that I require to push through my workouts. I found it's the best all around for short runs/sprints, weigh training/lifting, burpees, and HIIT. The Nike's look sooooo good, but looks don't translate to everyday comfort for me. p.s. Never buy shoes without trying on various brands/sizes first!! Once you decide on a brand/size, then you can shop for deals online if you don't like the store prices.
^^ all of this is useful! Your experience with the Metcon isn't very unique, though. It's a model that either works really well or not at all for different foot anatomies. Plus, the low-profile boot construction can be a pain for folks like yourself due to the slip issue - that's been an issue for some in literally every Metcon to date sadly. I'm with you, too. Try multiple models to see which last construction fits your feet best, then it makes it soooo much easier to shop for future models!
After getting disappointed by metcon 8, I gave the nano X2 a try. So far I'm liking it, I just had to downsize from what my actual foot size is...and I'm glad it's comfortable for my wide foot.
Bought my very first Nanos after watching your X2 review. I have wide feet and loving em! Tried on size 12 vs size 11 but settled with an 11.5 as its the perfect fit.
I wanted this review but didn't expect you to do this so soon as you have already done nano x2 vs metcon 7. Based on your and few others' recommendation and bcoz of getting it for a sale price, i have bought Nano X2. They are exactly as you have described. I am pretty satisfied. So thank you so much. The way you describe about the shoes is amazing.
i’m still on Metcon 4 XD, Speed TR Flexweave and Zero 360. but i’m about 50 years old so i don’t beat up these shoes. really great comparison between metcon 8 and X2.
I just started CrossFit a month ago and picked up a pair of Nano X2 and am much happier than with the standard minimal running shoe I've been using, I did have to go 1/2 size down. I will now also be picking up a pair of the Metcon 8's based on this review and because I was already wanting a pair plus the lower drop is more appealing to me.
Yeah, I'm sure the Nano X2 was a big change in fit/feel during that training context! Keep me posted on how you like the two - would love your thoughts on the two.
So many promo codes out there for reebok X2. I picked up an all black pair for £57. I couldn't justify spending £120 on the metcon when Reebok is so cheap
i end up going with the Nano x2. It's amazing! I'm don't think i'll ever squat 500 lbs or deadlift 350. The nano x2 fits what i need and i got some wide feet so it's hella comfortable! Should have gotten it sooner tho that's my only regret
Hey Jake, I hope you're doing well. I bought the F-Lite G 295 because of your review and I have to say you described the shoe 1 to 1 as it is. Best all round shoe I've ever tried. I'll leave a detailed comment on this under your video review as soon as I find time. I've tried on so many shoes, but none fit like this one. Only because of your review I came to the shoe. Thanks a lot for your helpful and entertaining videos.
Brilliant review, thanks! Would you say either one of these is better for support? I have problems with one of my knees and know that a supportive shoe works best.
I've never done crossfit, but I picked up the Nano x2 because I wanted a more solid shoe to squat in, but with more versatility than squat shoes. I don't want to bring a seperate pair of shoes for lifting/walking. I just went for a 10 min walk in them and they feel clunky and difficult to walk in. I really hope I can break them in and they will get more comfortable.
I think you nailed it. I have both and I love the Metcon for most crossfit workouts (unless it has running and then they are absolutely horrible) and I bought the Nano X2 to swap it up a little and so I can wear them out of the gym 😂 the Metcons I can't stand wearing outside of the gym
As a professional trainer colleague I have to say that your one of the nicest and knowledgeable fitness trainer i have found on ytb. I don't want to bother you, but if you have the time: is the Metcon 7(8 is unavailable here) if your a powerlifter and just do high intensities on the lifts? or you recommend something else? I usually have a pair of basic vibram for years but I'm really curious if these shoes rly enhances performances? thanks
Hey, thank you. I try, but I’m not always the best at that - always working on it! It really depends on mechanics and the specificity of which shoes will support your performance. For example, if we’re talking about the sport of powerlifting - you’ll want to find shoes that feed well into your anatomy/mechanical needs. When I compete and am in prep, I only squat in weightlifting shoes because they support my powerlifting-specific squat performance When I’m training in a recreational manner, I’ll rotate shoes per what I’m reviewing and what I’m working to train. For example, I’ll rotate barefoot shoes, cross training shoes, and weightlifting shoes to expose my feet/ankles to different stressors/environments. In the context of your performance, if you’re competing in powerlifting or plan to, I’d explore what types of heel to toe drops promote better performance for your needs. The Metcon line can be great for lifters that may not be as specific with their training. If you did want a trainer for a bit of everything and to focus on your big lifts (with no intention to compete soon) then exploring the Metcon could be a good call, but certainly not a must if you’ve been performing well in your Vibram model & enjoy them. There’s nothing inherently special about the shoes, however, if they did improve performance due to the difference in the drop you respond best to etc., then they could be worth. Sorry, long rant there 💪
thank you very much. i really appreciate the detailed response. we are alike in that we like to get our message well received and the desire to help people comes natural. A requirement for a top coach/educator. Saddens me sometimes this is rarely found nowadays in our profession as the society started trending to a more gain faster, look bigger, get wealthier, with lowest possible effort and machiavelic methods mentality. the dopamine addiction instigated by our use of technology and scientific knowledge breakthrough of psychological human behaviour rly helped impregnate that into us. is something that changed our society even at the roots of our human interactions. i'll leave it at that. anyway.. i started lifting just in socks decades ago and maybe this is why i got used to minimalist shoes(proud flatfeet owner). I'm not an athlete anymore and the serious 400+lifts are for my anaerobic power (i run). rest i just do my 50-60% intensity 15-20 reps for endurance and some accessory work for injury prevention. Like yourself i love my trapbar workouts. Hope i can get to that sweet x3.0-3.5 relative strength ratio on legs so i can sustain those long power strides in my sprints. If the shoes can help me even a little with less strain on my body on the long run they are worth. this is the only thing i feel passionate about nowadays anyway and why i enjoy strength training(and longevity benefits ofc).. Hoping to go under 2:40 @ 1km one day. Even at high/healthy/muscular weight. Looks almost impossible at my current level but i know i can do it with a ton of work. Just and old man and his dreams... ps: I will buy the shoes you recommended because you have a good point and why not try something new? thanks again.and to finish like a geek, i hope you live long and prosper! 🖖🏻
@@tudoru6551 Yeah, we're in a weird time where a lot of trainers/coaches feel the need to be polarizing to get their points across. That's dope! Sounds like you're navigating some the ebbs and flows of your training journey well. Shout if I can ever do anything to assist you on that front! Another model worth looking into if you are wanting a training shoe to try that has a zero-drop construction and wider last is the Altra Solstice XT 2. Thank you, you as well! And thanks for sharing your experiences.
The in-built hyperlift is almost step too far in my opinion. Makes them borderline unusable outside the gym. I get shin splints using them for any running
The Reebok X2 insole is terrible and the feet slips inside the shoe, the better model is the X what makes me think what is the reason of not doing better insoles since then…
You are right in the take about the foot slipping inside, I was doing double jump burpees above a dumbell and I had to be careful because felt the slipping. Then If go half size down im afraid if then it will be too much discomfort
Hello and thanks for the thorough review. Have you tried treadmill walking with the metcon 8? Generally I lift around 3 5 hours a week of low intensity cardio on the treadmill. Based on this I am wondering if the metcon 8 would be ok. Thanks 👍
Pass on the 8 for that. It's not a comfy model for walking/running. The chonky heel is off-putting, to say the least! Discuss this in my individual review if you want to check that out for additional info! Thank you!
@@thatfitfriend thanks mate. From yesterday i have watched at least 2 hours of videos on your channel, thanks for the effort. In the end i got nanoflex v2 for 60$ and i am happy with them. For the near future if i need to buy training shoes i will definetly watch your stuff first.
I'm really debating between these Nano's, Metcon 8 and the Adidas Dropset. I mainly do HIIT style of workouts, so basically a little of everything from some box jumps, snatches, jump rope to thrusters and snarches. Some heavy lifting every now and then. A little running never more than 2 miles. Which one of these 3 you think would be best for? I appreciate your reply. Thanks!! Great video BTW.
I think the Reebok Nano X2 would be your best bet call, especially if you want a bit more width throughout. The Dropset would be my second pick because it will fare a tad better for running! Thank you 🤝
Hi, I am not good at understanding your language. I would like to ask you if it is new to walking and weight-lifting exercises, and which one, and if we describe Endrammo Project Rock 5 in which one is appropriate, please help me choose. Thank you.
I'm starting to cross, but I feel a lot of pain in my feet with soft tennis even in functional training. What does it indicate? Thank you for dedicating yourself.
It's really impossible to say without knowing more about your training history/anatomy. It could be a multitude of factors, but if you think it's footwear-related, you could try a model that's a little more stable/dense to see if that helps, then work from there!
hi jake. I regularly do exercises such as jumping jacks, plyometrics, sprinting and hiit, which shoes should I choose? Do the above 2 types of shoes meet the requirements? Thank you very much
It’s my nth time watching this video (it’s a perverted thing to keep in the background while working the day job, before you’ve actually made the bread) and having recently secured my Metcon 8’s I’m still feeling a pang of sadness for not being able afford Nanos. (…for now?) TLDR is that the Metcons are more durable and stable, but at the cost of comfort. The Nanos are more versatile and wide-foot-friendly, but are less durable and have a higher heel drop. Would absolutely insist on having both if Reebok ever makes their Nanos like the Nano 4’s again.
@@thatfitfriend I’m a 9.5, and from my history of using Metcons I got my 8’s true-to-size…consistent with my history of using Metcons breaking these in HUUUUUUUUUURT
Hi Jake, what is your definition of "shorter runs"? I usually do about an hour of cardio after my weight training purely on the treadmill with a combination of jog and run, sometimes flat/sometimes full incline for about 5 miles each session. Which shoes between the two would you recommend in this scenario?
Hey Jake, I’m really torn between these shoes. I’m pretty sure for my style of training the reeboks tick most boxes but the only thing holding me back is the lifting side, my squat is around 140kg and hopefully keep rising lol will the reeboks be good for that weight? Thank you in advance
Hi Jake, this is a great video comparison and I still can't make a decision on whether to go with the Metcon 8 or Nano X2. I've always used Nano's (Nano 7, 8 and 9 is my current pair which I'm looking to upgrade). Here in Canada, the Nano X2 is on sale for *$48 USD, and the Metcon 8 is on sale for *$88 USD. I bought both of them to try out and I love the look of the Metcon over the Nano (minus the branding), the hyperlift insole (which I never had with the Nano's), and coming from a Nano 9, I like the 4mm drop. However, I can't help but want to go with the Nano X2 for the price alone. Is the 7mm drop that noticeable, and should I spend more for the Metcon's given my reasons above? I used my current Nano's for lifting in the gym only.
Sorry for the late reply - been driving all day due to travel issues 😅 IMO, you’ll likely acclimate to the 7mm drop faster than you think and if your gut is saying that model, then I think you’ll enjoy it. Spending more on a shoe like the 8 that you’re iffy about can be hit or miss. Plus, if you’re wanting them for a little bit or everything the Nano X2 should be a stronger performer as the 8 falls short for some athletic training and short runs! If your asks are purely lifting and CF, then it’s tough to fault the 8, but the X2 will suffice just be weary of j-wrap rope climbs in them! Hope that helps. You could also do some Bodyweight exercises at home in both shoes to reel them out without breaking them down so you can still return them!
@@thatfitfriend Thanks Jake for your inputs! FYI, I chose the Metcon 8 because I wanted to try something different and that they're designed with a lifting focus which is what I want. They also look nicer than the X2's IMO.
May I ask what would you reccomend in between UA reign pro 4 and metcon 8? According to your latest review they seem ti be pretty good but not suggested in between the best crossfit shoes. What do you think? Thank you!
Honestly both work well! TriBase Reign 4 will have a lower drop with a bit more firmness throughout, whereas the Metcon 8 will feel more athletic. Both shoes work, I'd suggest selecting the model that aligns with your fit preferences best.
@@thatfitfriend do you think that adding a drop in the UA would be beneficial? I mean, like the metcon 5, which I think Is a great shoe. Thank you again for your precious advices!
Hey Jake! I never train outside . Always in gym. I have wide foot . Like 5 days weight training with split and 1 day cross fit and do 2 twice deadlift but i do 100kg squat so need a bit of weight training I normally walk and never run . Which is better for me? I am looking for 150$ for shoe
I owned a pair of nano 10 did not like it cox i mix my training with lifting and lots of group exercises like HIIT or combat...do you think the nano x2 is a good fit for me?
I had already decided on Nano X2 because it was on sale. I was just looking at videos to justify my purchase for looking for shoe versatile to do some lifting and short runs. I'm a beginner in both so not like I need the very best for both worlds. If I'm still running and lifting later, maybe I'll buy better shoes for each activity. Anyway, just wanted to say I watched a couple of your videos and you're super informative in a way that feels relatable and down to earth. I get all the specific information I'm looking for without it feeling like a science essay and I just really enjoyed watching your videos about... shoes? You made shoes interesting bro. Not everyone looks for or needs encouragement from the world, but I just wanted to let you know I think you're doing an amazing job.
This comment made my day. I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to not only watch some vids, but also write this comment and share feedback. Thank you so much! Reach out if you ever have additional questions!
I got a nano at half the price of the metcon 8 as it was up on sale. I also own the Free Metcon 4s. Having come from Nano 8s I can vouch for their stability and durability. It's a no brainer at 85USD.
@@SirCharles824 I can vouch for nanos. Their weaves are quite durable. Can't say much about Metcons. I have free metcons which already have a few cuts.
@@thatfitfriend right where the shoe creases when you walk the material started to rip. But I am now doing CrossFit and after watching this is seems like a no brainer . I’ll give metcons 1 more chance lol
After 2 weeks of use with the metcon 8 , I love em ! They hold up very well and perform very nice for everything except running lol running in these make it a lot more tiring.
