Reebok Nano X4 Review (2024): Continuing a Legacy of Style and Performance

When building out the perfect workout wardrobe, the best cross-training shoes can provide a solid foundation to your get-up. While many brands and sneaker silhouettes exist in the space, there are a few that routinely turn heads with each yearly iteration, such as the Reebok Nano X4. This all-new profile from one of training’s most reputable brands has a nice blend of old and new for a makeup that’s immediately catching the eyes of many.

Borrowing some features from its predecessor — the Reebok Nano X3 — including the popular Lift and Run Chassis system, Floatride Energy foam in the midsole, and a full rubber outsole, it appears the X4 is an example of fine-tuning popular components to give athletes their best foot forward in training. Did Reebok create the one shoe to rule them all? No — there are still some shortcomings present across the stylish profile. That said, these can be great for athletes looking for a versatile footprint that fits right in across multiple training disciplines.

Main Takeaways

• The updated Flexweave Knit upper is light and durable for a quick break-in and breathable profile.
• The Floatride Energy Foam midsole is dense enough for heavy lifting, but also cushioned to support jump ropes, box jumps, and more explosive movements.
• While suited for sprints and light runs, the Nano X4s are not ideal for jogging beyond 1.5 miles.

Having run the gamut of the best cross-training shoes throughout my career and personal life, I’ve been aware of the Nano lineage for quite some time. I’ve previously trained with both the Nano X2s and Nano X3s, so comparing and contrasting those experiences with this all-new silhouette was a challenge I was willing to take on (with a smile, of course).

Upon unboxing — and having my Nano X3s nearby for comparison — I could feel that this X4 profile was already a lighter shoe. I weighed both silhouettes side-by-side and confirmed my initial thought — the Nano X4s come in at 12.07 ounces, while the X3s clock in around 13.85 ounces. I attributed this to Reebok’s refined Lift and Run Chassis System that utilizes fewer plastic overlays across the heel than in previous versions.

When I actually laced up the X4s for my first impressions, I was also met with a positive fit that hugged my ankle and midfoot without feeling too tight or loose, earning the sneaker a 4.5 out of 5 for fit. There weren’t any errant rubbing points for potential blisters, and I felt like I had a decent amount of room in the toe box without the shoe feeling entirely too big. I also feel like the upgraded Flexweave Knit upper flexes well across my foot, which can be great for keeping steps comfortable throughout my sessions.

Additionally, Reebok lists the heel-to-toe drop at 7 millimeters — similar to previous Nano offerings — but after taking a few steps, I felt like this profile had more of a minimalist vibe. I didn’t feel like I was walking around in a zero-drop sneaker, but the pitch from my heel to my forefoot was definitely more level than 7 millimeters.

As far as grip and traction is concerned, the Reebok Nano X4s have virtually the same full rubber outsole as the previous Nano X3 profile. Knowing how well this rubber pattern gripped gym floors, artificial turf, and studio hardwoods in previous workouts, I didn’t have any worries going into testing sessions with this sneaker silhouette.

Finally, I appreciated how Reebok has kept its lineage of affordable training shoes alive with the Nano X4. At $140, these sneakers are roughly $10 cheaper than the average price tag of other popular cross-training shoes. The current roster of X4s offers just 6 colorways, but I wouldn’t expect this lineup to stay stagnant for long. Reebok has a tendency to offer limited-edition colorways in the Nano lineup year-round, so if you’re displeased with the current offering, I’d wait to see what the future has in store for this stylish kick.

[Related: What Are Cross-Training Shoes? How to Pick the Best Pair of Cross-Trainers for You]

Pros

• The Lift and Run Chassis System marries well to the Floatride Energy foam for versatile comfort and support across different lifts and short cardio intervals.
• The redesigned Flexweave upper provides great breathability, creating a comfortable experience for extended workouts.
• There’s a higher tongue gusset and reworked heel cup for added security and a better fit across the profile.

Cons

• The Nano X4s are fine for sprints or short runs, but we experienced discomfort at distances beyond 1.5 miles.
• The laces may be short for some, especially athletes with wider feet that may stretch the Flexweave Knit upper.
• I do have some concerns on the upper durability, particularly for athletes that scrape the toe box during movements like burpees.

Training With the Reebok Nano X4s

I’ve had the Reebok Nano X4s for a few weeks now, and in that time I’ve put this edition of what the brand dubs the “Official Shoe of Fitness” through a mix of workouts, including squats, deadlifts, HIIT sessions, and more. I’ve also performed some running-centric circuits with these sneakers to get a feel for their performance during cardio-forward training sessions. While I, along with many fitness enthusiasts, wouldn’t classify the Nano lineup as a go-to for running shoes, it does help when a profile can be multifaceted enough for some underfoot support.

I also brought my Reebok Nano X3s along for these workouts to get a true side-by-side comparison of their performance. Since both sneakers share a good bit of features — with slight tweaks between the years, of course — I felt this was a good way to identify the progress Reebok has made in one of its most popular footwear offerings.

Across multiple workouts, sets, and reps, I thoroughly enjoyed training with the Nano X4s. The refined Lift and Run Chassis System provides excellent stability and support for heavy lifts and light sprints alike. Additionally, the full rubber outsole is great for gaining traction and grounding atop gym floors, turf, and hardwood. Lastly, the upgraded upper material makes for one of my favorite Nanos to date, both from a comfort and fit perspective.

Lift and Run Chassis System

The Lift and Run Chassis System is the leading component at play with this training sneaker. The system is designed to adapt to your training needs as you progress through a workout, creating a springy, plush sensation during runs and cardio sessions, as well as a grounded, stable platform for static lifts.

I gave these Reebok kicks a 4 out of 5 for the support and stability at play, favoring these X4s for my typical barbell workouts more than anything. The system created a flat yet comfortable surface that allowed me to achieve that grounded feel I desire when setting up for a heavy squat or pull. It’s not a drastic shift from the LAR’s initial run in the Nano X3s, but I do feel like the operation is more polished with this rendition.

I also can’t mention the Chassis System without speaking to the Floatride Energy foam across the midsole. The cushioning at play creates a nice blend of comfort and rigidity across multiple movements. Don’t get me wrong — they’re far from the cushioning I’ve experienced with the best running shoes, but I wouldn’t hesitate to tackle some quick sprint intervals or cooldown treadmill sessions less than 1.5 miles.

Having trained beyond this distance marker, though, I can attest that the Nano X4’s cross-training style rears its head at longer mileage, resulting in more clunk and discomfort than smooth, efficient performance. For these reasons, I rated the Nano X4’s versatility at 4.5 out of 5, and can definitely see them taking over CrossFit boxes in the months to come — provided the WODs don’t feature a multi-mile excursion.

Reworked Flexweave Knit Upper

Another new component across this Nano X4 silhouette is the upgraded Flexweave Knit upper. This material choice shares more in common with the textile showcased in the Nano X2s, giving the profile a bit of pleasing texture and a great sense of breathability. My feet stayed cool and dry throughout my workout, mostly due to the ventilation panels along the sidewalls.

This refined upper also helped the Nano X4s break in easier than last year’s Nano X3s, which had a thicker makeup. You can get these Reebok training shoes up to speed after just a few wears — a great benefit when trying to avoid growing pains on your fitness journey. Additionally, the knit upper cloaked my foot for added comfort, but I could see where wider-footed athletes may want a little more structure. You could potentially push the sidewalls out further than expected, leading to some lacing issues across the (admittedly) short laces.

[Related: The Ultimate Cross Training and Lifting Shoe Size Guide]

Because of the lightweight design, though, I do have some worry about the durability of this sneaker over extended use. The lightweight Flexweave Knit feels like it could be prone to rips and tears, especially if your training program involves abrasive movements like burpees, where the tops of your shoes scrape the floor more often. I rated these Nano X4s at a conservative 3.75 out of 5 for durability, but this is one category where I hope I’m proven wrong. The shoes look too good to get beat up after a few months.

Full Rubber Outsole

Finally, the full rubber outsole across the base of the Nano X4s felt great underfoot, showcasing ample grip across standard gym flooring. The outsole pattern is virtually the same as last year’s Nano X3s, so I was already aware of the potential performance aspects that could come with this design. After one squat walk-out from the rack, I was happy to feel that familiar sense of traction.

The Reebok Nano X4s also performed well across surfaces outside of rubber gym tiles. I had minimal slips and slides — outside of getting a little too aggressive on some suicide sprints across turf — leading to my score of 4 out of 5 for the category.

I’d recommend these training sneakers for most indoor environments — gym flooring, hardwood, artificial turf, etc. — but the flat layout of the outsole and minimal presence of lugs does limit their usage outside a training center. For those situations, there’s always the Nano Adventure lineup that’s likely to be released soon for this X4 rendition.

What to Consider Before Buying the Reebok Nano X4s

According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “Cross-training shoes are designed to be all-in-one shoes that can handle everything from CrossFit to HIIT to lifting weights and even running. Although they say a jack of all trades is a master of none, a good pair of cross-training shoes is as close as you can get to a master of all.” As such, it can be beneficial to think diligently on which kicks you choose for your next workout.

Of course, you’ll need to consider your shoe size (thankfully, the Nano X4 runs true to size), but other factors can influence your experience, too. Below are a few worthwhile considerations to ponder over while making your decision.

Training Style

The Nano X4s are some of the more versatile gym shoes I’ve trained in over the years. Not only are they exceptional for static and dynamic movements, but the Floatride Energy foam and LAR Chassis System perform well in limited cardio settings, too — a rarity amongst other cross-trainers of a similar build. “Cross-training shoes are great because they eliminate, or at least minimize, the need for multiple pairs of shoes,” adds Capritto.

That said, however, the all-in-one makeup can only get you so far in a training routine. For peak performance, you’ll want to match your footwear to your discipline. If your daily workouts are taken on the road or atop a treadmill, it may be wise to go with a running-specific sneaker over these particular kicks. In testing, I found that the distance limit for the Nano X4s hovers around 1.5 miles before discomfort can begin to set in, but still, I’d prefer a dedicated runner over these if I had the option.

Additionally, I found the balanced heel-to-toe drop of the Nano X4s to be efficient for lifts like squats and deadlifts, but athletes that partake in Olympic weightlifting may prefer a more specialized weightlifting shoe for these needs. The heightened heel can help you achieve the proper stance and form for these specific lifts, leading to better performance under the bar.

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes for Squats, CrossFit, Flat Feet, and More]

In the end, be sure to think about how you train, and where you take your fitness. If anything, you can always have multiple pairs of shoes at your disposal for different training days.

Breathability

When you’re pacing through a tough workout or gym session, you’re going to develop some sweat across your feet. How much sweat and moisture collects down yonder, though, depends highly on your shoe’s breathability, i.e., how much airflow does the upper material allow through to keep your feet from becoming overheated, damp, and stinky?

To keep things as comfortable as possible, it’s best to look for cross-training shoes featuring lightweight mesh materials or well-ventilated panels across the silhouette. These components can help keep your feet at a cozier operating temperature throughout your sessions while also giving sweat an exit strategy. This can also be beneficial when trying to avoid blisters — a common symptom of working out in damp, moist socks and warm sneakers.

Be cautious, though, with shoes relying heavily on lightweight upper materials. While these silhouettes can be excellent for keeping a breezy sensation across your toes, they may sacrifice some durability as a result.

Stability

Stability is a key component when looking to keep things safe and efficient during training. You want a shoe that can support your various stances and movements with a secure sense of grounding and traction. We recommend looking for training sneakers with a flat, rubber outsole that creates a complete connection with you and the lifting platform or machine.

You should also consider a gym shoe with a decent midsole construction, meaning a midsole with somewhat dense foam. This can be especially beneficial when trying to push through your feet for lifts like the squat and deadlift. You don’t want a shoe with plush cushioning that pancakes out to the sides like clay in a vise. This can create a less stable sensation underfoot as you try to search for the right footing, leading to imbalances in form and potential injury.

A good heel-to-toe drop can also help you create the most grounded experience possible. If your gym shoes are flatter from the heel to the forefoot, that can create more surface area for you to push and pull from, as opposed to, say, a higher-pitched running shoe designed to help you transition between landings and takeoffs at a certain angle. For cross-trainers, I recommend a drop height anywhere from 7 millimeters and lower.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training — Can Lifting Without Shoes Help You Make More Gains?]

Comfort and Cushioning

There’s no sense in training with a pair of gym shoes that feel uncomfortable, right? As such, it’s important to look for a sneaker that’s sized appropriately, with a decent boot and some room in the toe box. You don’t want to be swimming in your shoes, but having a little room for toe splaying and stepping can be beneficial, especially when deadlifting for that maximum connection between your soles and the platform.

Comfort also arises from the cushioning technology across the midsole. For cross-training shoes, you should look for a silhouette that toes the line between dense and plush. You don’t want a brick underfoot that clunks through your sessions, especially when adding cardio-based intervals to your routine, but you shouldn’t be pressing the foam out across the medial and lateral sides when pushing through a heavy set.

This is also why cross-training sneakers aren’t typically a go-to for runners. The dense midsoles can be more unpleasant during pavement-pounding sessions than the limited stress you’d get hopping between machines in a gym setting.

Reebok Nano X4s Vs. The Competition

While Reebok labels the Nano X4 the “Official Shoe of Fitness,” it’s not the only silhouette on the market. There are plenty of competing profiles from other top brands, so when searching for an ideal sneaker for your training needs, it can be helpful to scan the playing field.

Below, we’ve compared the Nano X4s to three of the top-performing gym shoes — the Nike Metcon 9, TYR CXT-1, and Under Armour UA TriBase Reign 6. All of these sneakers have been stalwarts in training footwear as of late, with minor differences across their build, metrics, and performance. I’ve also trained in each of these sneakers (or a previous iteration of their lineups), so I have a decent understanding of what separates each profile apart.

In terms of training footwear, the Nano lineup stacks up most evenly to the Nike Metcon. That’s for good reason. Each year, these two sneakers market to virtually the same athletes, offering up similar senses of fit and performance across multiple product colorways. The Metcon 9, in comparison to the Nano X4, showcases a wider toe box and lower listed heel-to-toe drop, making it a suitable pick for athletes heavily involved in weight training. Nike’s larger Hyperlift plate in the heel also helps boost the shoe’s stability for lifts like squats and presses.

That said, though, I’d recommend the Nano X4s for CrossFit or those that routinely add sprints to their regimen. The LAR Chassis System and Floatride Energy foam midsole provide better cushioning and comfort in these scenarios, while the Metcon 9’s dual-density foam midsole can get clunky in a hurry during cardio workouts. There’s also a $10 price increase when opting for Nike — the Metcon 9s cost $150, while the Nano X4s cost $140.

The newest competitor to Reebok is TYR. The CXT-1s burst onto the scene at the 2022 CrossFit Games, with many top-10-finishing athletes donning the new kicks en route to success. I’ve personally turned to CXT-1s regularly for static lifts and platform days thanks to the raised heel-to-toe drop — 9 millimeters as opposed to Reebok’s listed 7 millimeters — as this can help set my lower body better for optimal drive at a more comfortable stance.

Both sneakers also utilized a lightweight knit mesh across the upper, which translates to a lighter, sub-13-ounce build and breathable aesthetic. In my opinion, though, the Flexweave at play with the Nano X4s does seem to be more durable. I’ve had a few errant box jumps with the CXT-1s that left me with more battle scars across the toe box than desired.

Lastly, Under Armour’s UA TriBase Reign 6 is cheaper than the Reebok offering at $130 and is the closest example to a zero-drop shoe at 2 millimeters. However, these kicks are more efficient at lifting than cross-training given their heavy 14.25-ounce weight. While 2 ounces may not seem like a major difference, it can severely influence your performance toward the tail end of a dynamic WOD.

[Related: Should You Deadlift Barefoot? Here’s What the Experts Say]

Places to Buy the Reebok Nano X4s

The Nano X4s are available online directly from Reebok. Additionally, you can find these latest cross-training shoes at a handful of third-party retailers as well, including Champs Sports and Zappos, although the available colorways may vary.

Customer Experience

When ordering a pair of Nano X4s from Reebok, we found the experience to be very pleasant, rating the customer service at 4.25 out of 5. We appreciated the 60-day return policy, as this can be a good window to truly determine if a training shoe is right for your needs. Be sure to save the original packaging, though, as this is a requirement for any potential returns.

Reebok also offers free shipping for orders over $75, which is easily met with just one pair of Nano X4 training shoes. Plus, financing options are available via Klarna for athletes that may be on a stricter budget.

Of course, athletes that sign up for Reebok’s account services can get the best perks possible. According to the brand, those that sign up for this membership — previously known as Reebok’s UNLOCKED program — will enjoy free shipping and returns, as well as early access to new releases, member-exclusive sales, annual vouchers, and more.

Company Information

Like other sporting goods companies, including Nike and Adidas, Reebok has a rich history of providing athletes with the apparel and footwear needed for optimal, engaging performance. Founded in 1958 in England, the brand has manufactured top apparel, footwear, and accessories across multiple disciplines and activities, most notably in fitness realms including yoga, dance, aerobics, and CrossFit.

To reach Reebok for customer support, you can use the chat function located at the bottom of the brand’s online retail store. Additionally, you can call 1-866-870-1743 with any inquiries. 

In Conclusion

The year’s footwear market is still in its infancy, but Reebok may have already claimed the top spot for cross-training with these Nano X4s. I thoroughly enjoyed working out with these sneakers across multiple disciplines and intensities, and truly feel like the brand took its findings from the Nano X3s and simply leveled up each component. The Flexweave Knit upper is both stylish and comfortable, and the Lift and Run Chassis System is a unique sensation underfoot that doesn’t squinch when going heavy under the bar or pushing forward for the final leg of a sprint.

Like previous iterations in the Nano line, I don’t feel that these are the most ideal shoes for runners. Their sweet spot still lies in weight training and intervals. However, I’m excited that Reebok has given cross-training athletes some support for cardio with a comfortable, effective kick for short distances. The knit upper still needs time to showcase its durability over extended use, but I’ll still be riding high on these Nano X4s until a new competitor throws a decent enough response to claim the crown.

FAQs

The post Reebok Nano X4 Review (2024): Continuing a Legacy of Style and Performance appeared first on BarBend.