Quick Overview
The Reebok Nano X3 is a versatile, durable, and comfortable training shoe with several notable features. These shoes fit true to size and include a high-quality Flexweave upper. The unique chassis system and Floatride Energy Foam pair nicely for well-rounded performance, especially for CrossFit and general training.
Who It’s Right For
Things to Consider
The popular Reebok Nano line continues to push the envelope in the training shoe market.
The X3 model is the 13th version of the shoe, and compared to its predecessor, it includes welcomed improvements.
Thanks to a new midsole design, the X3’s offer balanced performance, making them good running and weightlifting shoes.
However, there are some potential drawbacks for certain athletes.
In this review, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the Nano X3. I’ll share the pros and cons and compare it to the Nike Metcon 8.
Let’s dig in.
Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes
In my opinion, the Nano X3’s are among the top CrossFit shoes you can buy.
Released in February 2023, these shoes come in various colorways at a competitive, but slightly higher price point.
I’ve been quite pleased with their performance and use them often for cross-training and accessory movements.
The Lift and Run (L.A.R.) Chassis lives up to its billing and stands out among clunkier shoes in my testing.
That said, the Floatride foam isn’t as good for lifting heavy compared to those with more rigid construction.
Let’s have a look at the specs and jump into the review.
Specs
- Heel Height: 7mm (0.28″)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Rope Guard: Yes
- Midsole: Floatride Energy Foam
- Outsole: Full Rubber
- Toebox Width: Neutral
- Sizing: True to Size
- Colorways: 15
Construction
The Reebok X3’s are generally well-constructed and feel more durable than the previous version. I’m impressed with the consistency throughout the shoes, especially at the seams. The material selection is appropriate for a cross-training shoe, and I’m happy to see a reworked ROPEPLUS that plagued the X2.
Upper
These uppers are constructed with Reebok’s Flexweave, a familiar material for Nano lovers. This knit-like fabric is comfortable but noticeably tighter-fitting than the X2’s before. Personally, I think this is a great change. This upper hugs the foot nicely and limits unnecessary movement that some complained about in the last model.
Although it’s tighter, it still provides a flexible fit and excellent breathability. Compared to the Metcon 8s, these are noticeably more breathable.
I also appreciate the thicker rear upper, which feels more durable and creates solid ankle stability. However, I don’t think this upper is quite as durable as canvas-style fabrics like the GORUCK Ballistic Trainers.
Midsole & Heel
The best feature of the Nano X3 is the midsole. When first hearing about the L.A.R. Chassis System, I was somewhat apprehensive. Honestly, this new technology just sounded a bit gimmicky.
The theory behind the L.A.R. is that the heel compresses and hardens when lifting weight and softens when running to provide more cushion.
Does it work? Yes, but with caveats.
For starters, the TPU heel clip does a nice job of preventing heel slippage whether you’re running or lifting. In tandem with the dome heel piece that makes the L.A.R., it provides good overall stability.
However, you shouldn’t expect the same results that you would with a proper weightlifting shoe, like the Reebok Legacy Lifter 3. It’s also not as rigid as some other cross-trainers, like the Metcon 8s, so those performing a lot of heavy barbell movements may find it lacking.
I do like the 7mm heel as a versatile height and am more than comfortable lifting in these shoes. But when it comes to heavy attempts, I go elsewhere.
The Floatride Energy Foam comprising the overall midsole is an absolute winner and gives the L.A.R. system its unique balance.
True to its claim, it does provide a more comfortable running experience, which I feel is lacking in many cross-training shoes.
Outsole
The Nano X3 has a full rubber outsole with solid traction. Having used these shoes on a variety of surfaces, including rubber and turf, I’ve been pleased with its performance.
Another key improvement of this shoe compared to the X2 is the reworked ROPEPRO. One of the biggest complaints on the last version was the durability of the plastic piece running through the inside edge of the midfoot.
While Reebok reduced this piece on the X3 to improve durability, I still don’t think this is the best shoe for rope climbs.
Performance
In my experience, the Reebok X3 has regained ground in this competitive class. After the X2s received some blowback for performance and durability, Reebok went back to the drawing board and made nice improvements.
Performance-wise, I’m impressed with the overall versatility of the shoe. The L.A.R. is a legitimate feature that excels during runs. I normally find cross-training shoes suffer during distance runs, so the X3’s are a pleasant surprise.
The Floatride Energy Foam is responsive when running on my manual treadmills and flatter outdoor surfaces. It absorbs force as well as any in its class, and I found traditional CrossFit movements like box jumps and double-unders, felt great.
In terms of lifting, the X3s performed well. I like the taller heel on these for squat variations, but I prefer something lower for deadlifts. Because the EVA Energy Foam and overall heel construction aren’t as rigid, I found others more supportive during heavy attempts.
However, I love these shoes for general strength training, including accessory and bodybuilding movements. The grippy outsole and heavier ankle construction also make these good shoes for activities requiring change of direction.
Aesthetics
The X3’s have a clean look overall with some classic Reebok touches. I personally gravitate toward the neutral colorways, but they have numerous options to pick from.
These shoes are currently available in fifteen (and growing) colorways, a few of which you can view below:
Rebook Nano X3 Sizing
The X3’s from Reebok will fit true to size for most people. I typically wear a 10.5 in training shoes, and ordering the X3 in that size resulted in a perfect fit.
If you have particularly narrow or wide feet, I recommend ordering a half-size down or up, respectively. Otherwise, most people are safe ordering true to size.
While they’re fairly comfortable out of the box, you should expect a break-in period. I found them a little stiff during my first few sessions, but they loosened up nicely.
Reebok Nano X3 vs. Nike Metcon 8
The Nike Metcon 8’s are one of the most popular and recognized training shoes, especially in CrossFit. While there are some similarities, there are several key differences that will push you to one or the other.
In terms of construction, both of these shoes have a lightweight upper. However, I favor the feel of the X3 Flexweave over the Metcon 8 mesh. It feels more premium and is noticeably more breathable.
Both of these shoes also have EVA foam midsoles, but the Metcon 8’s have a much more rigid heel, making them better for heavy lifting. Although I like the higher heel on the X3’s for squats, the Metcon 8 support is superior. I also prefer the Nikes for deadlifts.
For running, the X3s are the clear winner. The blockier heel on the Metcons feels sluggish, particularly on distance runs. The Reebok midsole, in combination with the L.A.R., leads to a much better running experience.
If you’re a big rope climber, you’ll appreciate the rubber wraps through the midfoot on the Metcon 8’s. They perform better than the X3’s, and the higher profile increases upper durability.
Both shoes offer an impressive number of colorways. Generally, I prefer the classic Reebok aesthetic, but there’s something for everyone here.
Ultimately, both of these are solid CrossFit shoes. I find the X3’s are more versatile/well-rounded with the midsole/heel construction, but the Metcons perform better for heavy lifting.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Final Thoughts
The Reebok Nano X3’s are near the top of the class for cross-training shoes, and I think the best for CrossFit.
I love their balanced performance and overall comfort, and I think they’re a clear improvement over the prior generation.
While I’m somewhat disappointed in heavier lifting compared to others, the versatility is outstanding.
I think the L.A.R. system has real benefits, and the Floatride Foam continues to perform well.
Ultimately, I recommend the X3’s if you’re looking for a balanced training shoe. They’re slightly more expensive than some others, but the features are worthy of strong consideration.
How does the Reebok Nano X3 Fit?
Most users find the Reebok Nano X3 fits true to size. It has a neutral toe box and consistent length with other training shoes. I recommend ordering a half-size down if you have particularly narrow feet.
Which is better, the Reebok Nano X3 or Nike Metcon 8?
The Nano X3 and Metcon 8’s are two of the most popular training shoes. While both are great options, the Nano X3 is a more well-rounded shoe because of the L.A.R. system. It’s especially good for running. However, the more rigid midsole on the Metcon 8 makes it better for heavy lifting.
Is the Reebok Nano X3 Good for CrossFit?
Absolutely. In my experience, the Nano X3 is one of the best shoes for CrossFit because of its balance between running and lifting. Its responsive midsole is excellent for box jumps, double-unders, and longer runs. Although it performs well during lifting, heavy lifters will likely appreciate a shoe with a more rigid midsole, like the Metcon 8. Still, the versatility of the Nano X3 makes it an ideal CrossFit shoe.