Nike Metcon 10
Pros
- More versatile Metcon overall
- One of the lightest Metcons ever!
- ReactX adds shock absorption and energy return
- Increased forefoot flexibility
- Still amazingly stable for weightlifting
- Fantastic upper durability (even for rope climbs)
- Great grip on gym floors
- Highly secure foot lockdown
- Accommodating fit and toebox
- Handy Lace Tuck
Cons
- Outsole could be more durable
- Upper lacks breathability
Key Features
- Open-holed engineered mesh provides breathability.
- Midsole rubber wrap is more tuned, lighter, and less bulky than the Metcon 9.
- Tough plastic heel clip enhances durability for exercises like handstand push-ups.
- Midfoot band secures your foot on the footbed, helping you maintain focus on form.
- Sturdy heel cup combined with lace tuck prevents shifting or slipping during workouts.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Engineered mesh, Rubber outsole
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Nike Metcon 10 is designed for men seeking a versatile gym shoe suitable for CrossFit training. This model delivers a sturdy base, impressive grip, and adaptive flexibility, allowing users to effectively engage in a variety of WOD exercises.
Lab assessments verify that its low profile enhances ground connection and control while facilitating fluid movements. The Metcon 10 provides unwavering support, particularly during lifting sessions, making it an excellent choice for men aiming to progressively increase weights.
Featuring a below-average stack height of 22.8/16.2 mm, the shoe includes a robust Hyperlift heel insert that resists compression under heavy loads. The wide midsole and reliable traction inspire confidence across various movements, with an above-average base measurement of 115.2/90.8 mm to enhance sensitivity.
Even on slippery surfaces, the outsole demonstrates effective traction, evidenced by its solid 0.38 rating in our traction test. This trainer exemplifies that stable footwear can still offer flexibility; it requires minimal effort for foot-bending workouts like planks.
Our bend test confirms that the Metcon 10 is 13.2% more flexible than average, achieving substantial stability without sacrificing movement. However, men seeking enhanced ventilation may find the Metcon 10 lacking, as it scored only 2/5 in our smoke test, suggesting a need for a more breathable option in warm or high-sweat environments.
Nike Free Metcon 6
Pros
- Fantastic breathability
- Very light on foot (lighter than average too)
- Abundant cushioning for HIIT
- Most flexible cross-trainer ever
- Excellent stability for moderate weightlifting
- Sock-like fit in a bootie upper
- Accommodating toebox (for medium feet)
- Great grip on gym surfaces
Cons
- NOT for rope climbs (lacks protection)
- Can be hard to put on (narrow opening)
Key Features
- Flexibility: The shoe offers high flexibility due to its laser-cut outsole, allowing for natural movement during exercises such as jumps and planks.
- Stability: Enhanced support and targeted cushioning provide a secure fit, with added foam in the heel for improved stability during intense workouts.
- Cushioning: Features ample cushioning underfoot that helps soften impact and ensures comfort throughout your training sessions.
- Breathable Upper: Made from specially designed mesh, the upper allows for breathability while providing support and flexibility for lunges, squats, and jumps.
- Secure Fit: Incorporates Flywire fibers that adapt to your foot for a dynamic fit, ensuring you feel secure as you move.
- Traction Profile: Designed for optimal grip on various surfaces, catering to all floors and activities.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Breathable, supportive engineered mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Rating: 4.6 out of 5 based on 8 reviews
The Nike Free Metcon 6 is designed for individuals seeking flexibility and agility during workouts, particularly in jump rope sessions. Its lightweight construction enhances comfort and contributes to improved ground feel, making it easier to perform aggressive movements.
With a bending resistance of only 9.0N to reach 30 degrees, compared to the average of 11.1N, the FM6 facilitates greater freedom of movement. Weighing 9.7 oz (274g), it is lighter than the typical trainer, which averages 10.8 oz (306g).
The shoe features a stack height measuring 22.0/14.8 mm, providing high sensitivity in the forefoot and soft cushioning for impact protection. This was validated by our durometer reading, which indicated a softness 17.9% below average. Additionally, the midsole's wide coverage of 113.9/94.4 mm aids in stabilizing landings.
However, we do not recommend this trainer for individuals with narrow feet, as the toe box is wider than average. Those requiring a more streamlined fit may want to consider alternative options.