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Head-to-head · Best Cross Training Shoes

Nike Metcon 9 vs Under Armour TriBase Reign 5

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

Under Armour TriBase Reign 5 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.5 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about gymgoers seeking impact protection — read the strengths below before deciding.

Nike Metcon 9
Ranked #6 in Best Cross Training Shoes
Nike Metcon 9
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 AmazonFull review →
Under Armour TriBase Reign 5
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Cross Training Shoes
Under Armour TriBase Reign 5
8 sources1 derived$125as of Aug 23

The Under Armour TriBase Reign 5 offers a solid all-around training experience with excellent impact protection and stability for heavy lifting. Reviewers noted its comfortable wraparound upper and dependable grip across different surfaces. However, the actual drop is higher than advertised, and the shoe's stiffness may not suit those prioritizing flexibility for movements like planks or lunges. It's well-suited for gymgoers doing varied workouts but may not appeal to minimalist training preferences.

Strengths
  • — Impressive impact protection with Micro G foam midsole
  • — Extremely comfortable wraparound upper with secure fit
  • — Excellent upper durability for cross-training
Watch-outs
  • — Drop is higher than stated at 4.8mm instead of 2mm
  • — A bit stiff and doesn't bend easily for planks and lunges
$125 · Check Price on AmazonFull 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.

Under Armour TriBase Reign 5

The Under Armour TriBase Reign 5 provides better impact protection and upper durability than the NOBULL Trainer+, but it's less flexible than the Adidas Dropset Trainer 4 and lacks the rope-climbing strength of the Nike Metcon 9. It's also heavier than the Reebok Nano X3, making it less ideal for cardio-focused workouts.

Specs side-by-side

SpecNike Metcon 9Under Armour TriBase Reign 5
Heel Stack21.5 mm22.3 mm
Forefoot Stack16.0 mm17.5 mm
Drop4mm4.8 mm
Weight13.3 oz / 378g12.3 oz
Upperheavier mesh upper with haptic overlaysWARP upper
Midsoledual density foamMicro G foam midsole
Outsoleall rubberUA TriBase outsole
Dimensions13.62 x 9.25 x 4.69 inches; 2.05 pounds10.3 oz.
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