When it comes to ranking the best cross-training shoes, the Reebok Nano lineup regularly earns a spot amongst the savviest workout-ready sneakers. Dubbed, “The Official Shoe of Fitness” these cross-trainers have been at the forefront of innovation and performance for years. In celebration of the stable’s 15th anniversary, Reebok is kicking things off with the unveiling of the all-new Nano X5 silhouette.
Like previous iterations of this foundational gym shoe, the Nano X5 features a grippy outsole, breathable upper, and versatile midsole best suited for the multifaceted training loads you’ll (likely) put it through. However, the brand goes about these foundational qualities with new tech and construction. This Reebok Nano X5 review will walk through each component and provide initial impressions to determine whether these “upgrades” have us itching to hit the iron paradise or if the new features can kick rocks.
We’re at the Forefront of the Best Fitness Footwear
The Garage Gym Reviews tester roster includes certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, competitive strength athletes, and more. Over the years, we’ve gotten hands-on (err, feet-on?) with some of the best CrossFit shoes and training footwear on the market. At the time of this writing, we’ve had over 65 different pairs of high-quality workout kicks in our respective foot lockers. I, myself, have also been a sneakerhead of sorts, having personally tested well over 100 different profiles over the years, including the best running shoes, gym shoes, recovery shoes, and more.
Of course, the equipment testing methodology for gym shoes is different from what we’d utilize for our content covering barbells, power racks, treadmills, and supplements. That said, our trials still highlight key footwear factors with tests examining:
- Overall construction
- Durability
- Versatility
- Traction/Grip
- On-Foot Comfort
- Style/Aesthetics
I’ve had the Reebok Nano X5s since the start of 2025, wearing them both in and out of training get a feel for their actual on-foot experience, similar to how we’ve tested previous Reebok sneakers as seen in our Reebok Nano X3 review and Reebok Nano X2 review. As these quindecennial Nanos hit the shelves, here’s what you can expect.
Reebok Nano X5
Reebok Nano X5
Product Highlights
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All-new DUALRESPONSE EVA Midsole with zoned durometer foam
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Decoupled Metasplit Outsole for increased flexibility
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Redesigned collar for comfort and security
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Medial RopePro traction plate for grip
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Wide range of unisex and women’s launch colorways
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Only 12 oz
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outsole design can be helpful for cardio sessions
- Midsole zoned cushioning for versatile support and comfort
- Wide range of colors
Cons
- Less ideal for trail or on-road running
- Flexweave upper may wear and tear
- Reebok does not offer wide sizing
Bottom Line
Like previous Nano silhouettes, the Nano X5 is a solid workout shoe best for resistance training protocols, plyometrics, and short cardio demands like sprints or treadmill runs. The new DUALRESPONSE EVA Midsole provides versatile cushioning for dynamic and static movements, and the overall look continues with the Nano’s reputation as a stylish kick both in and out of the training center.
A Quick Look at the Reebok Nano X5
With prices starting at $140—colored silhouettes are available for $150—the Reebok Nano X5 released on January 24, 2025. This 15th iteration joins the ranks of the Reebok Nano Gyms (read our Reebok Nano Gym shoe review here) as the brand’s signature training silhouettes. Additionally, the Nano X5 profile serves as a celebratory sneaker release for Reebok, signaling the shoe’s 15th anniversary. “The Nano X5 celebrates Reebok’s continued commitment to innovation, championing the athlete, and creating the best training shoe on the market,” notes Tal Short, Product Director at Reebok.
As far as ideal environments, this latest Reebok silhouette stays true to its Nano lineage as a go-to for resistance training, HIIT sessions, heavy lifting, and short sprints or plyometrics. Like the Nano X4 (and other Nanos we’ve tested), this sneaker isn’t the best for long-distance running or lengthy bouts of cardio. That said, though, the lighter 12-ounce weight and new Decoupled Metasplit outsole do lend themselves to easier jogging thanks to lighter pick-ups during transitions and more forefoot flexibility for toe-offs.
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Currently, Reebok is offering the Nano X5 in six unisex and seven women’s colorways with basic white and black silhouettes retailing for $140. You’ll need to pay an extra $10 to spring for colored variations, which I do suggest considering given the vibrancy at play with the brand’s Energy Red, Ai Aqua, Twilight Purple and Optimum Blue hues—they just look sharp. Plus, Reebok states that special pack releases will occur throughout the season, so don’t feel left out if the current selection isn’t up to your style standards.
Before You Buy
- While breathable and cozy, the FLEXWEAVE upper textile does have a tendency to stretch, meaning wider-footed athletes could push the silhouette over the midsole shelf if they do not order a larger, more accommodating size.
- The new midsole and outsole design is far more capable for walking and jogging endeavors, although I’m still hesitant to lace these Nano X5s up for long-distance running.
- The $10 price increase for colored profiles makes these the most expensive Reebok Nanos in recent memory, although they’re not aggressively overpriced when compared to other popular cross-training shoes.
Is the Reebok Nano X5 Worth It?
The Reebok Nano X5s are some of the most versatile Nanos I’ve laced up in recent years. The all-new EVA foam midsole pairs well to the decoupled outsole, and the convex (rounded out) sidewalls give each step more of a natural, welcoming landing more so than previous iterations that created a platform-like feel through their concave (rounded in) design. If I didn’t want to preserve these for in-gym training, I’d easily add them to my rotation of best walking shoes.
As with any Nano iteration, the Nano X5 feels most at home in training, particularly during high-intensity sessions with multiple compound movements. I can brace and stabilize quickly when getting into my back squat positioning, and dynamic workouts or ladder drills (on rubberized gym flooring) are tackled without fear. Are there still better silhouettes for specific movements? Yes—the 7-millimeter drop is somewhat lackluster when compared to the best weightlifting shoes, and I wouldn’t suspect Olympic lifters to ditch their favorite clogs when heading to the platform for these Nanos. For a general fitness enthusiast, though, I’m confident these new kicks can stand up and exceed expectations.
Finally, the Nano X5 has done what no previous iteration has done well—feel comfortable during runs (to a degree). The updated DUALRESPONSE EVA midsole has a good sense of responsiveness and cushioning, allowing you to seamlessly transition from weight training to cardio training without the need to swap sneakers. Again, I’m not advocating that you use these for long-distance running—still utilize the best running shoes for these needs—but if you want to start or end your gym sessions with a trek on the treadmill, these can do exceptionally well.
Great for:
- Reebok Nano fans
- Athletes who perform cross-training exercises
- Individuals looking for a stylish gym shoe
Not recommended for:
- Specialized strength athletes
- Runners that need dedicated running shoes for long distances
- Athletes on a budget
Reebok Nano X5 Specs
| Price | Starting at $140 |
| Weight | 12 oz |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 7 mm |
| Stack Height | Not disclosed online |
| Sizing | True to size |
| Available Colors | 6 (unisex), 7 (women’s) |
Workout Experience with the Reebok Nano X5
I wore these Reebok Nano X5s through a wide range of workouts—from general lifting sessions to functional fitness regimens, agility drills, cardio cooldowns, and more. In the gym, these shoes performed as expected, providing a stable, secure base for static lifts with enough responsiveness and comfort to support multidirectional movements. What earns these kicks a 4.75 out of 5 rating, though, is their ability to support my running demands.
Granted, I didn’t lace up the Nano X5s for grueling multi-mile jaunts through my neighborhood or challenging trail runs through the scenic hills surrounding my abode, but they were more than capable of keeping me calm, cool, and comfortable when pacing along on the treadmill. The DUALRESPONSE EVA midsole has enough give to it that you don’t feel like you’re pounding away at a solid brick underfoot. Given their performance in cardio sessions, I’m happy to say these are the most versatile Nanos to date.
Design and Construction
Design-wise, the Nano X5s share a similar silhouette to previous Reebok iterations, albeit with some minor tweaks. I appreciate the redesigned FLEXWEAVE upper that features a new zonal patterning across the toe box. This gives the shoe a sleek aesthetic while also providing a good sense of breathability and stretch. I also feel as if the toe box itself is more anatomically rounded for a better fitment, but I could be splitting hairs here when trying to compare and contrast the X5 to the Reebok Nano X4.
Another style change is in the rounded sidewalls of the DUALRESPONSE EVA midsole. This creates a clean line through the bottom of the shoe while also serving as a more functional compression point during steps and strides. Previous iterations featured more of a platform vibe that felt great in stabilizing setups before a squat or deadlift yet gave the sneakers a clunky sensation during walks.
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I do score the style at 4 out of 5, though, since the Nano X5s come with longer laces that can give your setup that bunny-eared look if you aren’t careful. Thankfully, Reebok does have an extra eyelet at the top of the ankle collar, so you can adjust your lacing accordingly. The fact that this needs to be done after unboxing your new shoes is a bit of a letdown, though.
Cushioning
Rather than using Floatride Energy Foam across the midsole with the brand’s signature Lift and Run Chassis System, Reebok employed a new DUALRESPONSE EVA foam midsole in the X5. In my opinion, the multiple “cushioning zones” from the forefoot to the heel work exceptionally well and are an upgrade over previous iterations. There’s enough rigidity to support bracing endeavors, yet the foam is forgiving enough to keep sensations appealing. This multi-zoned layout also helps create the aforementioned versatility that can be seen when transitioning between resistance training and cardio work.
I rate the midsole cushioning at 4.5 out of 5, too, given the Nano X5’s ability to stay comfortable in non-training scenarios. I wore these sneakers for a few weekend errands that called for a lot of walking through stores—you must traverse every aisle of a new grocery store—and I felt no pain points or aches once I returned home. I could easily see these sneakers fitting well in an athleisure-focused wardrobe, although I’d admittedly save them for training protocols over daily wear.
Grip and Traction
Finding traction across gym floors, including the best home gym flooring options, is never questioned in these Nano X5s. The rubberized outsole is tacky enough to give you a solid sense of grip underfoot. I also like the flatter cut of the sneakers that lends itself to less dust and debris being collected as you pace through your training.
The Reebok Nano X5 also features a decoupled outsole, meaning there’s a clear break between the forefoot and midfoot traction pads. This design change isn’t just for style—it helps accentuate the flexibility of the shoe and is one of the main reasons these latest Nanos perform so well during walks and short runs. I score the traction at 4 out of 5, though, since the flat, lug-free design is primarily focused on indoor training. I wouldn’t recommend wearing these for walking on graveled, uneven pathways or slick grass. There aren’t any lugs to help compensate and provide extra friction.
Fit
Like previous iterations of Nanos, this new design fits true to size. This can make online shopping a much easier endeavor, although I recommend wider-footed athletes size up for that optimal fit. While the FLEXWEAVE upper does have a comfortable stretch to it, it’s not flexible enough to account for larger-than-listed profiles. Plus, wide feet may place you over the shelf of the midsole foam and create an uncomfortable pinch point.
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The Nano X5’s ankle collar is designed for 360-degree comfort, and I found no issues with rubbing or abrasions when pairing these shoes with no-show socks. I score the overall fit at 5 out of 5, too, given the lay flat laces that make it easy to secure the top of the foot. Granted, the laces are longer than desired out of the box, but that doesn’t compromise the fit and feel of the sneakers.
Reebok Nano X5 vs Reebok Nano X4 vs Nike Metcon 9
Reebok Nano X4
Reebok Nano X4
Product Highlights
- Flexweave woven upper textile for breathability
- Lift and Run chassis in the sole with Floatride Energy Foam cushioning
- 7 mm heel drop
- Available in multiple colorways for both men and women
- Durable material that’s built to last
- Best for CrossFit workouts or any type of strength training
- Not ideal for long runs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stable, supportive heel and cushioned sole
- Long-lasting and durable
- Stylish enough to wear in and out of the gym
- Versatile enough for nearly any kind of training in the gym
Cons
- Sizing runs small, and many have to order half a size up
- Not cushioned enough for long-distance running
Bottom Line
The Reebok Nano X4 is a new and improved version of the Nano X3, and a versatile training shoe that looks good in and out of the gym. It's great for strength training, explosive movements, and sprint workouts, but it's not designed for running long distances.
If you’re looking for an alternative kick to the Nano X5, it’s easiest to take a gander at its predecessor, the Reebok Nano X4. Both feature a comfortable, breathable FLEXWEAVE upper, both boast a 7-millimeter heel-to-toe drop for in-gym versatility, and both are available in a wide range of color options. While there are plenty of similarities on looks alone, we’d recommend the X4s for budget-minded athletes at this time. Reebok is discounting the former model to make inventory room for the next rendition.
Read more in our Reebok Nano X4 review.
Nike Metcon 9
Nike Metcon 9
Product Highlights
- Released August 2023
- Versatile, durable training shoe
- Meant for CrossFit workouts and training
- Enhanced rope guard
- Larger Hyperlift crash pad
- 11 colorways available at launch
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Versatile training shoe
- Rope guard wrap-around
- Rigid heel great for stability
- Multiple colorways to choose from
- Lace locking system
- High-traction outsole
- Durable upper
- Breathable woven textile upper
- Wide toe box
Cons
- Not great for running or WODs with longer run intervals
- Some people may find them too rigid
- Expensive at $150 a pair
Bottom Line
The Nike Metcon 9 training shoes were released in August 2023 and build upon the Nike Metcon 8s with an enhanced rope guar wrap-around, plus a larger and more rigid crash pad. They feature a tightly woven and durable, but breathable, upper. The patterned, grooved outsole provides great traction during most weather conditions.
For those interested in a different brand, the Reebok Nano lineup has long drawn comparisons to the Nike Metcon family of cross-trainers. The most recent iteration carrying the signature swoosh—the Nike Metcon 9—is more expensive at $150 MSRP but may be more appealing to wider-footed athletes given the roomier toe box that elevates the fit over previous Metcon iterations. Plus, the featured rope guard extends upward along the inner and outer edges of the midfoot, which can be helpful when looking to stabilize your feet during rope climbs or side-to-side movements.
Read more in our Nike Metcon 9 review.
| Reebok Nano X5 | Reebok Nano X4 | Nike Metcon 9 | |
| Price | Starting at $140 | $140 | $150 |
| Weight | 12 oz | 12.07 oz | 13.55 oz |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 7 mm | 7 mm | 4 mm |
| Stack Height | Not disclosed online | 20 mm heel // 13 mm forefoot | Not disclosed online |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size | True to size |
| Available Colors | 6 (unisex), 7 (women’s) | 18 | 12 |
Ordering the Reebok Nano X5
The Reebok Nano X5 training shoe is available online directly from the brand’s retail site. We’ve also been able to find these X5s at popular third-party retailers such as Zappos and DSW. Fit is true to size, but wider-footed athletes should consider sizing up given that Reebok does not offer Wide Sizing.
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Final Verdict of Our Reebok Nano X5 Review
Every new Nano iteration comes with speculation. Like clockwork, though, Reebok seems to curb any doubts once rubber meets the road (err, gym floor). The Nano X5s are highly versatile for training and should be plenty comfortable as you tackle your weekly WODs. The major upgrade, though, is their ability to handle more cardio-focused workouts without leaving your feet in pain and discomfort. I also appreciate how Reebok keeps things that work well (looking at you, FLEXWEAVE upper) with just the right number of tweaks.
My list of favorite gym shoes is always evolving. After all, I’ll likely be testing a new batch of kicks within the near future. For the time being, though, these Reebok Nano X5s have a strong hold on the crown.
Reebok Nano X5 FAQs
Is the Reebok Nano X5 good for squatting?
Yes, you can squat with the new Reebok Nano X5. These shoes feature a 7-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, similar to previous models, which can help place your feet at a more comfortable angle for squatting purposes. More advanced strength athletes may prefer a higher heel-to-toe drop, though, so take your personal preferences into account before getting under the barbell.
Can you walk in the Reebok Nano X5?
Yes, thanks to the DUALRESPONSE EVA midsole, the Reebok Nano X5 is comfortably capable of supporting walking-based workouts. That said, the flat, lug-deprived outsole may be best suited for paved pathways or graveled trails—we do not recommend using these gym shoes for hiking or tackling more intense terrain.
Is it OK to run in the Reebok Nano X5?
Technically, yes. While having a dedicated pair of running shoes is always ideal, the Reebok Nano X5s have performed well in short runs and light jogs. We’d be fine tackling one of our best treadmill workouts while wearing these new kicks, but longer sessions on the road still call for more specialized footwear.
How much do the Reebok Nano X5s cost?
The Reebok Nano X5 starts at $140 for basic white and black colorways. Colored variations cost $10 more for a total of $150. These prices are consistent across all six unisex and seven women’s silhouettes.
