Head-to-head · Best Cross Training Shoes

Nike Metcon 9 vs NOBULL Drive Ripstop

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

NOBULL Drive Ripstop comes out ahead by a narrow margin (3.5 vs 3.8). The gap is mostly about cardio-focused athletes — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #6 in Best Cross Training Shoes

Nike Metcon 9

3.5

7 sources$155.36as of Aug 23

The Nike Metcon 9 stands out as a top-tier cross-training shoe designed primarily for weightlifting and heavy compound movements. Reviewers praised its exceptional stability, durability, and performance on rope climbs, making it ideal for serious Crossfit athletes and lifters. However, its weight and limited suitability for cardio exercises were noted as drawbacks. The shoe offers a comfortable fit and good grip on gym floors, though it lacks cushioning for high-impact activities.

Strengths

— Exceptionally stable for weightlifting
— One of the most durable cross-trainers
— The best shoe for rope climbs

Watch-outs

— Heavier than average (and previous Metcons)
— Not great for cardio workouts and rope jumps

$155.36 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Cross Training Shoes

NOBULL Drive Ripstop

3.8

7 sources2 derived

The NOBULL Drive Ripstop aims to bridge the gap between running and lifting shoes, delivering marathon-level shock absorption and energy return thanks to its 100% Pebax midsole. Reviewers praised its breathability and suitability for cardio and HIIT workouts, though some found the midsole to feel clunky and blocky. While it offers solid stability for moderate lifting, it lacks the platform stability needed for heavy weightlifting or serious Olympic lifting. The shoe's durability was also questioned, making it less ideal for intense CrossFit WODs.

Strengths

— Excellent shock absorption for high-impact work
— Exceptional energy return from Pebax foam
— Solid stability for moderate lifting

Watch-outs

— Not for heavy weightlifting
— Poor durability

Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Nike Metcon 9

The Nike Metcon 9 stands out as the most stable and durable cross-trainer, excelling in weightlifting and rope climbs, but it's heavier than the Reebok Nano X3 and NOBULL Trainer+, which offer better cardio performance and lighter builds. Unlike the Under Armour TriBase Reign 5, it lacks cushioning for high-impact activities, making it less versatile for runners or sprinters.

NOBULL Drive Ripstop

The NOBULL Drive Ripstop provides better shock absorption than the Nike Metcon 9 and more energy return than the Under Armour TriBase Reign 5, but it's not suitable for heavy lifting like the NOBULL Trainer+. Compared to the Adidas Dropset Trainer 4, it lacks the stability for compound movements and is less durable.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Nike Metcon 9	NOBULL Drive Ripstop
Heel Stack	21.5 mm	27.5 mm
Forefoot Stack	16.0 mm	22.7 mm
Drop	4mm	4.8 mm
Weight	13.3 oz / 378g	8.1 oz
Upper	heavier mesh upper with haptic overlays	Ripstop upper
Midsole	dual density foam	Pebax-based foam
Outsole	all rubber	rubber outsole
Dimensions	13.62 x 9.25 x 4.69 inches; 2.05 pounds	—

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