Is it the shoes?

No, you did not stumble onto a sneaker website all of a sudden.  However, I am going to take this time to discuss footwear.  First and foremost there isn't a requirement for footwear, ok there is, no open toed footwear (safety reasons).  There are footwear choices out there that will enhance your experience and improve your performance.

Now, shoes will not make you run faster, they won't make you jump higher or lift more weight.  They will put you in  a comfortable position to perform better overall.  Due to our programming a lot of people are confused about the type of footwear they should wear.  We do it all, running, jumping, weight lifting, walk on walls, etc.  Do I get a running shoe, a training shoe?  So many options it'll make your head spin.

Here are some quick suggestions on some stylish yet functional footwear you can use at the box.

Nike Free Run 5.0

Nike Free Run 5.0

It is very common to see this version of the Nike Free Run line at our box.  The shoe is light, comfortable and it looks good at the same time.   It is a minimalist shoe, but not so minimal that you feel every bump when we send you out on a dreaded "Fire Run".  These are made for short runs, and to be light.  They may not be optimal for some of the Olympic and weight lifting movements we conduct at the box.  The Nike Free Run can be a bit unstable, and may affect set up stance, midline stabilization and weight in the heels.  Not a bad shoe but not the best.  Another knock on this model is that they burn out quickly, they don't have great durability.

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New Balance Minimus

A solid shoe for the type of workouts we conduct.  Once again a minimal shoe, hence the name.  Can be a little uncomfortable when running outside, since you feel everything.  Great for stability when weightlifting.

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Reebok Nano U-Form


Marketed as a "Jack of all trades" shoe.  Great for CrossFit, since they provide the flat sole for lifting portions of your WOD but also have a good amount of cushioning so you don't feel the pounding of the pavement.  Reebok is way ahead of the game when it comes to footwear specific for CrossFit, in fact they have an exclusive agreement when it comes to shoes and apparel.  This particular model was the first designed and developed by and for CrossFitters.

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Reebok Nano 3.0


This model made it's debut during the 2013 CrossFit Games, and most vendors have had a tough time keeping this model in stock.  The shoe is extremely versatile, like the UForm, where it's minimalist enough to provide stability for weight lifting and has enough cushioning to make your runs somewhat comfortable.  Both versions of the Nano, have reinforced toe boxes so they wont wear out with all those burpees and wall walks.  Highly recommended model, although finding the color you want may be difficult.

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Reebok Lifter


Also making it's debut during the 2013 CrossFit Games, this shoe is a specialty shoe.  It is Reebok's designated "weightlifting" shoe and comes in an assortment of colorways.  This shoe is lighter than other weightlifting shoes on the market, but still provide the flat sole and stiffness needed to provide stability during heavy lifts.  Going for a run in these is not recommended.

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Adidas Adipower


These next two entries are strictly for those committing to moving a massive amount of weight.  The Adipower is Adidas primary weight lifting shoe, and it's a good one.  Provides rigid support with it's one strap system.  Constantly reviewed as the most comfortable weightlifting shoe on the market.  Not exactly versatile as it only comes in the red color pictured to the left.  Heel support for stability along with a flat sole.

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Nike Romaleo 2

Used by the Chinese National Weight Lifting team in the London 2012 Olympics, the Romaleo 2 has risen in popularity.  Especially the awesome looking Volt colorway.  Nike shaved some weight from the original Romaleo to make this shoe lighter.   It as a dual strap system to provide forefoot and rear foot stability.  It also offers Nike's unique "Power Bridge".  A favorite, along with AdiPowers amongst power lifters and olympic lifters.  These are very friendly to those with a wide foot.

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As you can see, there are plenty of options.  One option we don't recommend is running shoes.  They may provide optimal cushioning for long runs or even walks.  However, they will not provide the stability you need for the workouts we conduct.  In fact they may even make you susceptible to injury (i.e rolled ankle).  There are deals to get these types of shoes at a discounted price, in fact, I posted one on our Facebook page today.  We'll be on the lookout for more.

When it comes to footwear, in this case it's function over style.  The majority of the options listed have both.  There is also an up and coming brand called INOV8 that also has CrossFit specific footwear, unfortunately, I haven't tested a pair and can't give any type of review.  As always, if you have any questions feel free to ask the Backyard Staff.