Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes Review (by a CrossFit Dad!)

Let me tell you something only a seasoned CrossFit Dad would know: you don’t just wear out your training shoes — you earn it.

After more than a decade of burpees, box jumps, and barbell lifts, I’ve run through my fair share of Reebok Nanos. So when I got my hands on the Reebok Nano X5, I was curious if the 15th-anniversary edition could live up to the legacy.

Spoiler alert: it does.

In this Reebok Nano X5 mens shoes review, I’ll break down why this version might just be my all-time favorite.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

My Quick Video Review

Here’s a quick video review of the Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoe:

Other products to help you crush workouts

• Grips/Gloves. If new to CrossFit, or just need some good grips, do your hands a favor and check out my review of the JerkFit’s WODies for CrossFitters — I’ve been using for years!
• Headbands. Halo makes the best headbands for sweaty dudes, like me! I don’t leave home (for the gym) without it.
• Anti-chafing powder. Applying powder pre-workout to reduce friction is a no-brainer, see my anti monkey butt powder review.

A Quick History of the Nano

Reebok launched the first Nano in 2011 as the world’s first shoe built specifically for CrossFit. Each new version since has been shaped by feedback from the CrossFit community—improving flexibility, durability, and stability with every release. Now in its 15th iteration (more history of the Nano), the Nano X5 continues that legacy, balancing performance and comfort for athletes who demand versatility from their footwear.

Pros and Cons

Before you lace up, here’s a quick look at what stood out (and what could be better) about the Reebok Nano X5 shoe.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

What I liked

1. Wide Toe Box – There’s actual room for my toes to splay out during lifts. No toe cramping.
2. Stable Heel – Firm and supportive during squats and deadlifts. The heel locks in without any give.
3. Breathable Material – That Flexweave upper lets air flow. Huge plus in a box without A/C.
4. Great Grip – Whether jumping on boxes or rope climbing, traction held strong.
5. Versatility – From barbell work to short runs, these handled every movement I threw at them.

What can be Improved

1. Runs Small – Had to go up half a size. Toe box is roomy, but overall fit was tight initially.
2. Boxy Aesthetic – It’s functional, sure, but not the sleekest shoe on the market (but, no one is staring at your shoes in the gym!)

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

Quick Verdict

If you’re a CrossFit dad or just someone looking for a solid all-around training shoe, the Reebok Nano X5 is a no-brainer. Durable, breathable, and stable under heavy lifts — it’s my go-to for WODs and beyond.

Top Amazon Reviews

Don’t just take my word for it, here’s what others are saying about the Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes:

• “Fantastic for cross-training” – One reviewer said the balance of heel stability and forefoot cushioning makes it perfect for their hybrid workouts.
• “Best Nano yet” – Multiple longtime Nano fans say this version offers the most comfort and traction of any iteration so far.
• “Order a half-size up” – Many reviewers confirmed my experience: sizing runs tight, so go up a half-size.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

Unboxing – What’s Inside?

Specifications

• Origin: Imported
• Sole Material: Rubber
• Outer Material: Mesh (Flexweave textile)
• Closure Type: Lace-Up
• Upper Material: Breathable Flexweave textile
• Midsole Construction: Dual-density foam (firmer heel, softer forefoot)
• Outsole: Rubber with decoupled Metasplit design for traction
• Insole: Removable with built-in arch support
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: Athletic midsole drop for stability and balance
• Recommended Use: CrossFit, cross training, light running, general gym workouts

Features I Found

Over a month of testing in the gym and garage, I noticed these standout features:

Wide Toe Box

One of the biggest wins for me was the extra room up front. The toe box doesn’t squeeze or restrict. My feet felt free to splay during squats and lunges, which helps improve balance and form. I typically wear size 11, but ended up with 11.5 to make sure I had enough room.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

Heel Stability

The firm heel foam is where this shoe shines. I never felt wobbly on deadlifts or cleans, and it kept my foot locked in place — no slipping, no shifting. For any Dad still going heavy, this is the kind of underfoot support you want.

Breathable Flexweave Upper

The Flexweave material felt light and breathable. Most CrossFit gyms (mine included) feel like saunas by mid-WOD. These helped my feet stay cool without feeling like I was sacrificing support or structure.

Grippy Outsole

The durable rubber sole delivered great traction — essential when you’re jumping on boxes or pulling off rope climbs. The Metasplit design allows for good flexibility too, especially during quick movements or short runs.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5

Versatile Midsole

This dual-density midsole is an MVP. Firmer foam in the back supports heavy lifts, while the softer foam in the forefoot cushions jumps and sprints. For a hybrid workout shoe, this balance is spot on.

Dad’s Final Thoughts

Fun fact: Reebok launched the very first Nano back in 2011 — a shoe designed specifically for CrossFit, which was a game-changer at the time. Fifteen years and many burpees later, the Nano X5 continues to evolve that legacy.

As a Dad who’s squeezed workouts between school drop-offs and meetings, I need gear that performs without compromise. The Nano X5 is that kind of shoe — versatile, durable, and just comfortable enough to get through a WOD and then chase your kid in the front yard.

It’s CrossFit Dad approved.

Reebok Nano X5 Mens Shoes, Cross Training Sneakers for Men, Black/Grey 5/Reebok Lee 3, 11.5