Over the course of my testing and review process with the Reebok Nano X3, I’ve found a few pros that I really enjoy with this shoe. 1. Good Well-Rounded Performance Hey! I’d also pass on the X3s then. They’ll feel different, but they still have an arch so in your context I think they’ll still be a miss. The x3 is known for its capabilities in the CrossFit world, but now with the heel pod and heel cup, it can be used for powerlifting and short snappy runs as well with ease. The main changes from X2 to X3 are the unisex sizing, the L.A.R. Chassis in the midsole, and updated tread pattern. Otherwise, the shoes are pretty much the same—similar upper, similar lacing system, similar tongue, similar rope guard, and similar overall shape.

Nano – Reebok Nano – Reebok

I’ve had multiple athletes reach out about how they miss the 4mm heel-to-toe drop on the older Reebok Nano models and that they don’t like the new higher drop. If you’re in this camp, then you’ll want to pass on the Nano X3 as it still has a higher drop. According to the press release, the heel clip and cup shape also changed, but I didn’t notice much of a difference in my testing thus far. The new heel cup design allows for great transitions between sets without the shoes falling off of your foot. The heel pod also allows for firm standing during a lift yet ease of landing when doing box jumps or sprints. In addition, this shoe also has what looks like the “metasplit” design that came in the Reebok Nano 7, 8, 9, and X built-in, however, Reebok hasn’t made a point to call this feature out, so I’m saying that more so as it’s a visual representation of the design and not a set-in-stone feature. According to a press release, the heel clip has been updated on the Nano X3, as has the heel shape. Reebok calls the shape of the heel cup “sleek” although I can’t say I noticed much of a difference between the X3s and X2s. Toe Box

Reviewed by Josh

This shoe works well in the context of general strength training and for strength work programmed in WODs, but it will have some limitations, and that’s typical for cross-training shoes rooted in versatility. There will always be a give and take.

Nano X3 | Reebok Nano X3 | Reebok

I also like that Reebok fixed the rope climbing durability issue in this model. If you’re wanting the Nano X3 primarily for CrossFit, then I think you’ll enjoy the performance of this shoe and it should last a lot longer than the X1 and X2 for this training context. Who Shouldn’t Buy the Reebok Nano X3? My only gripe with the Nano X3 for versatile training is that they do take a bit of time to break in which I’ve mentioned already in this article. I would not expect these to feel perfect the first time you wear them and I’d give them a week or two to feel better for this training style. Testing the Reebok Nano X3 for Short Runs and Daily WearI have yet to have issues with my shoe’s durability when it comes to rope climbs which is a good sign with the volume that I program climbs. Testing the Reebok Nano X3 for Versatile Training The Reebok Nano X3 performs well for a wide range of activities making them a good “all-in-one” style shoe. The flat, wide base gives you a great platform to weight train. I had multiple sessions of strict strength training and never was disappointed.

Nano X3 – Reebok Australia Nano X3 – Reebok Australia

The Flexweave upper is also a positive change about the X3 for athletic-style sessions. I found the upper to hug the foot well and I never had issues sliding in around the toe box in this model as I did in the Nano X2, which I noticed here and there when doing broad jumps. In testing, I was thoroughly pleased with the level of stability found in both the Metcon 8s and Nano X3s. In the Nikes, the React Foam midsole provided that perfect blend of rigidity and coziness that’s made it a go-to for many athletes throughout the years. In the case for Reebok, I enjoyed the rigidity displayed across the new chassis system, and the Floatride Energy foam gave a nice blend of cushioning without creating too much plush. For athletes that love having a ton of flexibility through their midsole and outsole, I’m not convinced you’ll enjoy the Nano X3 because I think it will feel a little stiffer than your specific flexibility and articulation-driven preferences, in my opinion. Reebok Nano X3 Pros Heavy squats and deadlifts were on the menu. The flat base made me feel grounded and firm to the floor. With each movement the shoes stayed true to shape and comfortable throughout. However, that didn’t happen since the replacement pair was too small. I wasn’t able to comfortably run in them, either.

Reebok Nano X3 Conclusions

There are still a few little quirks that some may not enjoy with this shoe, but I think for the most part, their versatility should work out well for most athletes and lifters needing a shoe for lifting, CrossFit, and dynamic training. They’re supposed to be chameleon shoes, adapting to the needs of the workout. This has always been the goal of CrossFit shoes, but as you might expect, designing a shoe that excels at multiple (vastly different) activities is an arduous task. Typically, CrossFit shoes are only good for short runs and aren’t the best at remaining stable under very heavy weights—they’re designed to be decent at both so you don’t have to keep changing your shoes. Coming in with Floatride energy foam like they put in their running shoes, giving you a responsive, cushioned ride.

Reebok Official UK | Reebok Official UK

I preface this testing section by saying neither the Metcon 8s or Nano X3s should be viewed as replacements for your typical running shoes. As stated earlier, shoes designed for in-gym training feature less cushioning than dedicated running sneakers and are more rigid by nature. With that said, however, there are occasions where you need to be multi-faceted in your training, especially when working through a WOD or HIIT session that calls for some sprints or longer jogs. With the first pair, since they didn’t fit as tightly as they should, they didn’t feel as stable as my Nano X2s and X1s do. As a taller lifter, I also like the slightly higher heel-to-toe drop as it gives you a little more “heel” for lower body exercises. If you like shoes with slightly higher heel-to-toe drops, then I think you’ll also enjoy how the Nano X3 feels for leg days. Since the Reebok Nano X3 has a lower-profile upper that hugs the foot a little more, I think most lifters and athletes will want to go true to size in the Nano X3. The Nano X3 fit a lot more truly than the Nano X2 and I didn’t have issues regarding length in this model.Over the years, I’ve enjoyed the ebb and flow of the Reebok Nano cross-training shoe line. I thought the Reebok Nano X2 was a step in a good direction for the Nano line despite it having a few shortcomings.