Is Nike's new Metcon 10 the ultimate training shoe?

Nike is now breaking into double figures of iterations of its Metcon sneaker. Born in 2015 – when sports like CrossFit boomed – the Metcon 1 was designed to meet the growing demand for a sneaker that could support both heavy lifting and high-intensity, dynamic movements.

Over the past decade, the sneaker has been continuously redesigned to fit the needs of athletes and casual gym goers alike. Now, at its tenth remodel, how does the Metcon 10 fare?

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

The Nike Metcon 10 at a glance...

On sale now at The Iconic$200 | Nike

What's new?

The Nike Metcon 10 has been upgraded from its predecessor, the Nike Metcon 9, to offer more versatility and cushioning to level up your cross-training potential.

The Metcon 10 optimises stability for heavier lifts with an ultra-strong Hyperlift plate. The addition of responsive ReactX foam to the midsole also creates more flexibility, energy, and mobility for explosive movements like running and jumping.

The Metcon 10 features a wider toe box compared with the Metcon 9, so your toes can extend outwards to help you optimise your power through your whole foot. It gives your feet extra breathing room, so they feel less squashed.

Nike has also introduced a little lace pocket on the tongue, so they're out of the way mid-workout.

What I loved

- Style: First off, I love the colourways of the Metcon 10s. Nike always delivers on a range of bright colour palettes, and they didn't skimp with this new release.

- High-energy: Nike wasn't joking when it said the Metcon 10s are a responsive shoe. On the first wear, I could immediately feel the spring and bounce in my workout. When doing HIIT, weightlifting, or CrossFit, a responsive shoe can help carry you through a tough session.

- Flexibility: I've owned the older iterations of the Metcons, which were typically quite stiff. The 10s offer more give, which makes them feel less restrictive and flat for movements like running and jumping.

- Grip: Everyone who has been in a gym knows how sweaty and slippery a gym floor can get. A tough, sticky texture has been added to high-wear-and-tear areas to keep you locked in when lifting heavy weights.

- Lightweight: The sneakers feel super light on foot, as well as breathable during particularly sweaty sessions. There's nothing worse than a claustrophobic foot mid-workout.

- Extras for niche needs: The tough plastic clip at the shoe's heel provides extra durability for movement like handstand push-ups if that's your bag.

Are the Nike Metcon 10s worth it?

The Metcon 10s are all about durability, grip, and stability. Each new feature has been strategically placed to ensure these needs are met, and they are. Before I'd even worked out, I could immediately feel the difference between the 10 and the Metcon's earlier models.

As someone whose workouts often incorporate a mix of weightlifting, box jumps, barbell cycling, short runs, and more, these sneakers delivered. I felt free but supported, sturdy but flexible, and controlled but energised. I'm very fussy about the workout gear I wear, but I'm pleased to say I've been wearing these on repeat.

If you're someone whose training sounds similar (with a lot of variety and needs), consider upgrading your current footwear with a shiny new pair of Metcon 10s.

Other colourways

And if you're not sold on the purple and pink colourway, there are plenty more to choose from:

Shop at NikeOn sale at The Iconic

Shop at Nike

Shop at NikeShop at The Iconic

Shop at NikeOn sale at The Iconic

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