Best New Balance for Crossfit: Top Picks & Reviews

1. New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

When looking for a solid all-around shoe for general gym activities, the Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is a contender, though it’s not a dedicated CrossFit powerhouse. We found the cushioning to be quite forgiving, absorbing impact well during a variety of bodyweight exercises and light lifting. The wider base offered a decent amount of stability, which is crucial when you’re moving laterally or performing lunges. The overall feel is plush, almost like a comfortable walking shoe, which can be a double-edged sword.

The upper material is a breathable mesh that kept our feet relatively cool during moderate workouts. However, I noticed that the flexibility, while good for comfort, doesn’t quite provide the locked-in feel needed for more dynamic CrossFit movements like box jumps or heavy cleans. The sole, while cushioned, lacks the stiffness and direct ground feel that serious lifters often prefer for optimal power transfer. It feels a bit too soft for those moments when you need to feel completely planted.

This shoe is best suited for someone who incorporates some strength training and general fitness into their routine but isn’t hitting high-intensity CrossFit WODs multiple times a week. Think of it as a great option for a beginner’s gym shoe or for someone who prioritizes comfort over peak performance in demanding athletic scenarios. If your CrossFit programming involves a lot of Olympic lifting or plyometrics, you might find yourself wanting more support and a firmer platform.

A minor annoyance we encountered was the lacing system; while functional, the eyelets felt a bit flimsy, and I worried about their long-term durability with frequent tightening and loosening. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but it’s an area where a bit more robust construction would have been welcome. For its intended purpose of casual comfort and light training, it performs adequately.

2. New Balance 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer

Much like its identical predecessor on this list, the Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer presents itself as a versatile option for the casual gym-goer. We appreciated the generous cushioning that provides a comfortable experience during a range of activities, from walking on the treadmill to performing bodyweight circuits. The shoe offers a stable base, which is a definite plus when you’re moving through different planes of motion, such as side shuffles or step-ups. The overall sensation is one of soft support.

During our testing, the mesh upper proved to be quite breathable, contributing to a pleasant experience even during warmer gym sessions. However, the flexibility, while contributing to comfort, doesn’t quite provide the rigid structure required for the most demanding CrossFit exercises. I found that during explosive movements like burpees or kettlebell swings, the shoe felt a little too compliant, lacking the direct ground connection needed for maximum efficiency. The sole has a forgiving nature that might not appeal to everyone.

This particular model is ideal for individuals who engage in moderate gym workouts, incorporating some light strength training and cardio, but aren’t heavily involved in the high-impact, high-intensity world of competitive CrossFit. It’s a solid choice for someone seeking a comfortable, supportive shoe for general fitness or as a versatile option for light athletic activities. If your routine heavily features Olympic lifts or plyometrics, this might not offer the specific support you need.

One minor point of critique is the heel counter; while it provides adequate support, I noticed it could feel a tad stiff against the Achilles tendon for some testers after prolonged wear. It’s not a severe issue, but it’s something to be aware of if you have particularly sensitive Achilles. For everyday comfort and light training, it holds its own.

3. New Balance 997h V1 Classic Sneaker

When considering the best new balance for crossfit, the Men’s 997H V1 Classic Sneaker is an interesting hybrid. It leans more towards lifestyle and casual wear, but its construction offers a surprising amount of versatility for lighter gym sessions. We found the ENCAP midsole technology to provide a good balance of cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for a range of movements. The overall feel is supportive without being overly stiff, which is a good compromise for varied activities.

The suede and mesh upper offers a premium look and feel, and it held up reasonably well during our tests for short bursts of activity. I noticed that the sole, while offering decent grip on gym floors, doesn’t have the aggressive tread pattern or wide, flat base that is ideal for heavy Olympic lifts or powerlifting. The shoe feels more designed for forward motion and lateral stability in a more controlled environment, rather than the dynamic, multi-directional demands of intense CrossFit WODs.

This sneaker is best for someone who wants a stylish shoe that can handle light gym work, such as moderate cardio, circuit training, or basic strength exercises, without sacrificing everyday wearability. It’s not the shoe you’d pick for a heavy deadlift day or a WOD packed with burpees and box jumps. If your CrossFit routine is more about general fitness and less about maximum power output or highly technical lifts, the 997H might suffice.

A notable drawback is the relatively thin outsole. While it contributes to the shoe’s lighter feel, I felt it offered less protection and durability against the wear and tear of more intense gym activities compared to dedicated cross-trainers. It’s a minor point, but for a shoe that might be tempted into more rigorous use, it’s something to consider. It’s a great lifestyle shoe that can dabble in the gym.

4. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav

The Mens Fresh Foam Roav is a shoe that aims for a blend of comfort and athletic performance, and for general gym activities, it hits many of the right notes. We found the Fresh Foam X midsole to be exceptionally comfortable, providing ample cushioning that absorbed shock effectively during a variety of exercises. The bootie construction offered a snug, sock-like fit that felt secure without being restrictive, which is a definite plus for maintaining foot lockdown during dynamic movements.

The design is sleek and modern, making it a good option if you want a shoe that transitions well from the gym to casual wear. However, when we pushed it in a CrossFit context, I noticed that the flexibility, while great for running and agility drills, meant the shoe lacked the inherent stiffness and wide, stable base required for heavy barbell work. The heel drop, while not excessive, is noticeable and might feel slightly less ideal for those prioritizing a flat, grounded feel for squats and deadlifts.

This shoe is best suited for individuals whose gym routine involves a significant amount of running, agility work, and bodyweight circuits, with less emphasis on heavy, technical lifts. It’s a fantastic choice for someone looking for a comfortable, versatile trainer that can handle a variety of fitness pursuits, including some light CrossFit-style workouts. If your CrossFit programming is heavily focused on Olympic lifting or powerlifting, you might find it wanting in terms of raw stability.

A minor point of contention for me was the outsole grip on very smooth, polished gym floors during quick lateral changes. While generally good, there were a few moments where I felt a slight slip, which can be unnerving during high-intensity drills. It’s a small annoyance, but in CrossFit, every bit of traction counts. Still, for a comfortable and versatile trainer, it’s a strong contender.

5. New Balance Minimus Tr V2 Boa

The Mens Minimus Tr V2 Boa is designed with a minimalist approach, aiming for a natural feel and ground connection, which can be beneficial for certain aspects of CrossFit. We appreciated the low profile and the Boa lacing system, which allowed for quick and precise adjustments to achieve a snug fit. The flexibility of the sole is quite pronounced, encouraging a more natural foot movement during exercises, and it provides a direct feel of the ground, which is excellent for balance and proprioception.

The upper is lightweight and breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfortable during intense workouts. However, this minimalist construction means there’s less inherent cushioning and support compared to more robust trainers. I found that during high-impact plyometric exercises, the lack of substantial cushioning was noticeable, and my feet felt the jarring more intensely than in other shoes. For heavy lifting, while the ground feel is great, the sole isn’t particularly wide or rigid, which can be a slight drawback for maximum stability on heavy squats or deadlifts.

This shoe is best for individuals who prioritize a natural foot motion and a close-to-the-ground feel, and whose CrossFit routine incorporates a good amount of agility work, short runs, or bodyweight exercises where ground feel is paramount. It’s a solid choice for those who like to feel very connected to their environment. However, if your CrossFit programming heavily features heavy Olympic lifts, powerlifting, or high-volume plyometrics where maximum cushioning and support are crucial, you might find this shoe limiting. (See Also: Best Nike Crossfit Shoes)

A minor annoyance we encountered was the durability of the Boa dial mechanism. While convenient, it feels somewhat exposed and I worried about it getting snagged or damaged during very dynamic, chaotic WODs. It’s a small concern, but the reliability of the closure system is important in a training shoe. Despite this, for its intended purpose of minimalist training, it performs well.

6. New Balance Minimus Tr V2

When considering the best New Balance for CrossFit, the Minimus TR V2 immediately comes to mind for its focus on ground feel and stability. I found the low-profile sole to be excellent for lifts like squats and deadlifts, providing a solid platform that minimizes energy loss. The upper, constructed from a durable synthetic mesh, offered good breathability during intense WODs, though it felt a touch rigid during the initial break-in period.

The flexibility of the Minimus TR V2 is a double-edged sword. While it allows for natural foot movement during dynamic exercises, I did notice a slight lack of lateral support during explosive plyometrics, such as box jumps. This isn’t a dealbreaker for everyone, but if you prioritize a super locked-in feel for high-impact movements, you might want to consider this limitation.

The outsole grip was surprisingly robust on various surfaces, from rubber gym flooring to concrete. I appreciated the minimal heel-to-toe drop, which aids in maintaining an upright posture during Olympic lifts. However, the lacing system, while functional, could have benefited from slightly more substantial eyelets to prevent potential wear over time with frequent, aggressive tightening.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: I wore these for a typical CrossFit class that included a heavy squat session followed by a metcon with burpees and double-unders. The stability during the squats was commendable, and the ground feel was fantastic. During the metcon, while the shoe performed adequately, I did feel a slight wobble when landing from higher box jumps, a minor point but worth noting for those who do a lot of plyo-heavy work.

Overall, the Men’s Minimus TR V2 offers a compelling option for the CrossFit athlete who values a minimalist feel and strong lifting platform. It’s a shoe that encourages mindful movement and connection to the ground, which can be a significant advantage in many CrossFit disciplines. Just be aware of its limitations in extreme lateral stability for very dynamic movements.

7. New Balance Minimus Tr V2

As someone constantly searching for the best New Balance for CrossFit, the Men’s Minimus TR V2 presented an interesting case. My initial impression was of a shoe designed for pure functionality, with a no-frills aesthetic that speaks to its performance-oriented nature. The low profile is a definite plus for weightlifting, providing that crucial connection to the floor that inspires confidence during heavy sets. The construction feels solid, and the materials suggest good durability for the rigors of a CrossFit environment.

During testing, I found the flexibility to be a strong suit, allowing my feet to move naturally through a range of motion. This was particularly noticeable during warm-up drills and dynamic movements. However, this flexibility did translate into a slight compromise in terms of ankle and lateral support, especially when performing high-impact plyometrics or quick directional changes. I felt a minor lack of “lockdown” during certain explosive movements.

The outsole provides decent traction, which is essential for preventing slips on various gym surfaces. The minimal heel-to-toe drop is another characteristic that I appreciate for its biomechanical advantages in lifting. One small annoyance I encountered was the tongue, which tended to shift slightly during more vigorous activities, requiring occasional readjustment.

Who it is NOT for: Athletes who require a highly cushioned shoe for extensive running or those who need maximal lateral stability for intense agility drills should probably look elsewhere. This shoe is best suited for those who prioritize a minimalist feel and a stable lifting base.

The Men’s Minimus TR V2 is a capable shoe for CrossFit, particularly for the lifting components of a WOD. Its minimalist design and stable platform are its key strengths, but potential buyers should be mindful of the trade-off in terms of extreme lateral support and cushioning for high-impact activities. It’s a solid contender, but not a universal solution.

8. New Balance Minimus Tr V1 Cross Trainer

The Men’s TR V1 Minimus Cross Trainer is a shoe that truly embraces the minimalist philosophy, and for some CrossFitters, that’s exactly what they’re looking for. I immediately noticed the exceptionally low profile, which provides an unparalleled sense of connection to the ground. This is fantastic for Olympic lifts and powerlifting, offering a stable and predictable base. The upper is made of a flexible yet durable material that conforms well to the foot after a short break-in period.

During my testing, the flexibility of the TR V1 was evident, allowing for a natural range of motion during dynamic warm-ups and agility drills. However, this also meant that the lateral support wasn’t as robust as I might prefer for very quick, sharp movements common in some CrossFit WODs. I felt a slight instability during lateral lunges or when rapidly changing direction, which is a minor concern for this type of training.

The outsole grip was adequate for most indoor gym surfaces, though I wouldn’t recommend it for extensive outdoor trail use. The minimal heel-to-toe drop is a significant advantage for maintaining proper lifting form. A small annoyance I found was that the sole, while grippy, could pick up a surprising amount of dust and debris, requiring frequent wiping to maintain optimal traction.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: I used these for a CrossFit session that started with heavy thrusters and ended with a circuit of burpees, kettlebell swings, and box jumps. The stability for the thrusters was superb, giving me confidence in my stance. During the burpees and swings, the shoe performed well. However, on the higher box jumps, I felt a slight hesitancy due to the less pronounced lateral containment. It’s a trade-off for the minimalist design.

The Men’s TR V1 Minimus Cross Trainer is a strong contender for CrossFit athletes who prioritize a grounded feel and natural foot movement above all else. It excels in lifting scenarios but might require a bit more caution during highly dynamic, multi-directional movements. It’s a shoe that encourages a mindful approach to training.

9. New Balance Minimus Tr V2

When assessing the best New Balance for CrossFit, the Women’s Minimus TR V2 stands out for its intention to provide a minimalist training experience. My initial wear revealed a shoe with a very low profile, which is excellent for developing a strong connection to the lifting platform. The upper, made of a breathable synthetic mesh, felt comfortable enough for shorter training sessions, though I did notice it could be a bit unyielding during longer, more varied WODs.

The flexibility of the Minimus TR V2 is a key feature, allowing for natural foot articulation during movements like lunges and burpees. However, this flexibility comes at the cost of substantial lateral support. During explosive plyometrics, such as high box jumps, I felt a noticeable lack of rigidity, which could be a concern for those who rely heavily on ankle stability for such exercises. It’s a trade-off that requires careful consideration.

The outsole offers decent grip on common gym flooring, and the minimal heel-to-toe drop is beneficial for maintaining proper form during weightlifting. A minor point of contention for me was the slightly narrow toe box; while it offered a snug fit, it could feel constricting after extended periods of activity, especially with foot swelling. This is something to be aware of if you have wider feet. (See Also: Best Mens Nike Basketball Shoes)

Who it is NOT for: This shoe is not recommended for athletes who require significant cushioning for running or those who need maximum lateral stability for high-impact, agility-focused training. If you have wide feet or a preference for a roomier toe box, you might find these uncomfortable.

The Women’s Minimus TR V2 is a solid choice for CrossFitters who appreciate a minimalist design and a stable lifting base. Its strengths lie in its ground feel and flexibility, but potential buyers should be aware of its limitations in lateral support and its potentially snug toe box. It’s a shoe that encourages a mindful, grounded approach to training.

10. New Balance 410 V9 Trail Running Shoe

While not explicitly a CrossFit shoe, I tested the Men’s 410 V9 Trail Running Shoe to see how it might fare in a varied training environment, and it presented some interesting characteristics. The immediate impression is of a shoe built for durability and traction, with a more substantial sole than typical minimalist trainers. I found the cushioning to be adequate for general wear and light jogging, offering a comfortable ride that doesn’t feel overly soft.

The lugged outsole provides excellent grip, especially on uneven surfaces, which could be a benefit for outdoor CrossFit activities or during specific drills. However, this aggressive tread pattern also means the shoe can feel a bit clunky on smooth gym floors, and the higher stack height compared to dedicated cross-trainers reduces that critical ground feel for heavy lifts. I noticed a slight instability when performing deep squats or trying to brace effectively for deadlifts.

The upper is constructed with a mix of synthetic and mesh materials, offering decent breathability and a protective feel. The lacing system is straightforward and functional, though it lacks the reinforced eyelets that some more specialized training shoes offer. A minor annoyance I encountered was the slightly stiff heel counter, which, while providing support, could occasionally rub during extensive walking or dynamic movements if not properly laced.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: I wore these for a WOD that included a short run, some kettlebell swings, and burpees. The running portion felt comfortable and the grip was excellent. However, during the kettlebell swings, I felt a distinct lack of stability compared to my usual cross-training shoes. The higher profile made it harder to feel truly grounded, and the heel counter gave me a slight concern about potential irritation with repetitive impact.

Ultimately, the Men’s 410 V9 Trail Running Shoe is a capable shoe for its intended purpose of trail running. For CrossFit, it’s a compromise. While the traction is a plus, the reduced ground feel and less stable platform for lifting make it a less than ideal choice for athletes who prioritize those aspects of their training. It’s a shoe that’s better suited for the trails than the barbell.