Nike Metcon 8 review

6 expert score
0 user's score
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples. We purchased this pair at Nike.com with our own money.
Review written on 16th October by Josh McClurg Josh McClurg is from western Pennsylvania, close to Pittsburgh. He is 33 years old and is a diesel mechanic for work and a fitness fanatic for hobby.
6 other reviews

Nike Metcon 8 Verdict

The Nike Metcon 8 is a wonderful shoe strictly made for crossfit and weight training. This shoe has a solid platform for firm landing, mindless transitioning and a real planted feel to the ground.

The pros

  • Sturdy base
  • Stiff heel counter
  • Great visual appearance

The cons

  • Almost too stiff a sole
  • A little too flat bottomed


Rating breakdown

Comfort
10
Build quality
9.0
Upper
9.0
Sole unit
9.0
Landing
9.0
Transition
6.0
Toe-off
5.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
9.0
Value / Price
8.0

Facts / Specs

Brand
Model
Metcon 8
Family
Array
Previous model
Weight
12 oz (340 g)
MSRP
$130.00

Heel
mm.
Toe
mm.
Heel drop
4 mm.

Size, fit and comfort

Sizing
Buy half size bigger
Heel fit
Tight
Midfoot fit
Normal
Toebox fit
Normal
Amount of cushioning
Medium cushioning
Stability
Very stable
Flexibility
Medium

Best for

HIIT / Crossfit  
Weight Lifting / Strength Training  

Who should buy the Nike Metcon 8 ?

The ideal person who should use this shoe is someone who is actively in the gym. People who Strength train can utilize this shoe for heavy lifting, but the crossfit space is where this shoe will shine! Someone consistently moving during a workout is perfectly suitable for the Metcon 8.

Who should not buy the Nike Metcon 8 ?

A begginner who has never done crossfit or weight training should stray away from this shoe. This is a performance shoe for athletes in my opinion. If you plan to run during your workout, i wouldnt use this shoe.

Nike Metcon 8 Introduction

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

The Nike Metcon 8 is a strict performance shoe for athletes in the crossfit and lifting space. More so, I’d venture to say the experienced competitor in this space would really enjoy this shoe.

Like the Reebok Nano, TYR trainer or the Born Primitive Savage, this shoe is designed specifically for box jumping, rope climbs, split squats and deadlifting.

At a pricepoint of $140 dollars this shoe will exceed your expectations of a typical training shoe. For the price you get great overlays that really lock your foot in place, wall to wall grip for transitions and climbing and a very desirable look for prettt much everyone!!

The lighter upper mesh from the previous design allows more breathability and a more relaxed yet structured fit.

The Nike React foam gives a springy yet cushioned feel to keep your feet comfortable for the entire workout.

Nike Metcon 8 Impressions

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

When I first opened the box my eyes were so pleased. The design of the upper mixed with the ruggedness of all the rubber on this shoe gave me an overwhelming happiness.

As a shoe lover, this design is an A+.

First time wearing the shoe I soon realized these do need a break in time. They felt clunky and firm but after a few gym sessions, they really felt comfortable and loosened up a bit.

The first session programmed involved wall handstands and box jumps. These shoes excelled in those areas because of the huge selection of rubber to keep you planted and solid base to land hard and be ready to go again.

Nike Metcon 8 Comfort and fit

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

They fit really good in multiple area. Toebox is more narrow so it keeps your foot in place for all movements. Teel counter grabs your heel and keeps it secure. This shoe is very comfortable when training.

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for running?

The Metcon 8 is not a good shoe for running.

Even casual walks through the store they are clunky and loud.

You can tell by the super flat bottom they are made strictly for workout purposes.

Good for short sprints to a different exercise but not actual running.

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for HIIT / Crossfit?

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

For crosstraining and HIIT work I found is where these shoes excel. With their solid flat base and grippy sole, they allow for your movements to be fluent and smooth.

The hyperlift plate under heel allows for stability when landing from a muscle up or box jump.

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for weight lifting?

When it comes to weight training these shoes will work, although more qualified for crossfit they do work.

Most lifting shoes have a higher stiffer heel to help with balance and support when deadlifting or squatting. These shoes have cushioning and and only a 4mm heel to toe drop so they aren’t specifically set up for “lifting”.

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for dance classes?

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

When it comes to dance classes these shoes fail. Like previously stated when walking, they are clunky and very flat. They do have grooves in the sole for flexibility but they do not flex enough to be nimble!

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for general gym use?

As for anyone wearing these in the gym I would probably opt for another trainer.

After wearing these for multiple workouts I’ve realized these are more elite level athletic shoes. At the price-point and nature of the shoe, they wouldnt benefit your average gym goer.

Is the Nike Metcon 8 good for other types of training?

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

In my opinion the metcon 8 arent set up for anything other than cross-training.

These shoes were specifically designed for the athlete to excel in there programming. Just like a carbon plated marathon shoe is made for racing not walking through the grocery store.

Nike Metcon 8 Conclusions

Picture of Nike Metcon 8

Overall I really enjoyed the Nike Metcon 8 and would recommend them to the athlete ready to use them.

I probably wouldn’t suggest these to my mom, or my friend just starting out in the gym but for the advanced cross trainer, these shoes are excellent.

This shoe is in its 8th model and Nike has done very well to update and take in suggestions from competitors to advance the shoe in the industry.

If you are a crossfit athlete or competitor, I couldnt imagine a better shoe for you!

How does the Metcon 8 compare?

Reebok Nano X3
Nike Metcon 8
ON Cloud X 3
Expert score
7
6
9
User score
Retail price
US$150
US$130
US$149.95
Brand
Weight
oz
12 oz
8.8 oz
Heel Drop
mm
4 mm
8 mm
Recommended for
Cushioning type
responsive/balanced
Cushioning amount
Medium cushioning
Medium cushioning
Medium cushioning
Flexibility
medium
medium
flexible
Stability
very stable
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
buy half size bigger
true to size

Why you can trust us

As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.
We purchased this pair of Nike at Nike.com  with our own money.

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our policy.
Lowest price:

$130

Nike Metcon 8 price comparison

Reviewed by Josh

This review was written by Josh McClurg on 16th October.
Josh McClurg is from western Pennsylvania, close to Pittsburgh. He is 33 years old and is a diesel mechanic for work and a fitness fanatic for hobby. Josh grew up running with his dad hours before school and rode bmx with his friends in his spare time. Running and being in shape were always on the forefront of life! Eventually he grew out of that and had to deal with real life working. When he found out he was having a little boy at 28, he knew he had to change his life. Ate poorly, gained

User feedback (0)

Lowest price:
$130

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