About this deal
In layman’s terms, if I have a cross-training shoe that is designed specifically for CrossFit and a cross-training shoe that is designed specifically for HIIT workouts, then I’ll test each model with my standard review format, then create additional testing biases accordingly. On top of their stability for lifting, they also did a good job in the contexts of CrossFit and cross-training. This shoe’s upper did a good job with abrasion resistance from rope climbs and for plyometrics, the Reign 5 has a nice athletic fit to them. Arune: I have worn Under Armour training shoes more than any other training shoe for the past 18 months. I’m clearly a fan, but I swear that every model has such a radically different fit that I have no clue what to expect. Every cross-training shoe featured in this article has been personally reviewed by me and tested in a similar format. By testing models in a similar format, I can then draw more context between shoes and where they’ll be the most appropriate. That doesn’t mean this is a bad shoe – once you break it in, there’s a whole lotta good, but the Reign 5 simply isn’t a shoe I’ll be reaching for on a regular basis.
Drew: Rope laces are not a good choice on a cross training shoe. I would consider swapping the Under Armour TriBase Reign 5’s laces with something different. Break in that Breaks You If you like a higher drop or a little more “heel” when lifting, then I think you’ll resonate better with the Nano X3. Conversely, if you like a flatter shoe for training, then opt for the TriBase Reign 5 as it’s closer to a zero-drop shoe.The TriBase outsole provides a nice grip level of traction on wooden platforms, rubber gym floors, and machines, so I don’t think traction will be an issue for you regarding general weight lifting and strength training. Outside of the TriBase material, this shoe has a textured rubber base that provided a fair amount of grip on both rubber gym floors and outside pavement. This is definitely a nice perk for someone who wants this shoe for indoor and outdoor workouts. On the toe, there’s a wave-like texture that’s used to promote the foot’s ability to grip the floor under weight. Performance In the world of training shoes, where the average weight is 11.5 oz (326g), the NOBULL Trainer is a light trainer at just 10.4 oz (294g). But the shoe is far from lightweight when it comes to its performance in a Crossfit box, as its fantastic flexibility, solid stability, and outstanding durability make it our top lightweight Crossfit trainer. Plus, I think the density of these shoes could be a turn-off regarding cushion for some if they opt for wearing these cross-training shoes all day and you’ll get more out of these shoes if you save them for training.
A lot of cross-training shoes are designed to support heavy lifting. In general, compared to more general training shoes and running shoes, cross-training shoes will utilize more high-density foams in their midsoles and firmer rubbers in their outsoles. The running-friendliness of this shoe was further enhanced by the combined power of a softer foam and a bouncy Zoom unit. Using an HA durometer in the lab, we learned that the midsole has a softness rating of 22.4, which is lower (hence softer) than the 27.0 average. The softness helped protect us from impact during our runs. I also like the TriBase outsole and how it supports balance when doing single-leg work like skater strides and skips. The tread also grips turf, rubber gym floors, and wooden platforms pretty well, so I don’t think you’ll have traction issues in multi-directional contexts. The forefoot’s toe box is made slightly wider for toe splay and I found that it’s kind of tough to pull the shoe really tight near the forefoot with the double eyelet lacing at the bottom. I would be interested to see if the issue would fix itself with a single eyelet at the bottom because I’m a fan of the wider toe box for lifting purposes. Drew: Yes, it was. Under Armour’s TriBase tech feels like gluing my feet to the floor, especially during any heavy lifts. Honestly, I even feel the difference when doing the bench press. My feet stay thoroughly planted allowing me to access the maximum amount of force from my muscles. As a tall guy that has to deal with a long range of motion, the extra stability is helpful. Improved UpperIn my opinion, the volume gives this shoe a slightly wider fit (emphasis on the slightly) despite having a similar last construction to the TriBase Reign 4. For long-distance runs, I would suggest passing on these shoes because I think their density will be offputting for most recreational runners. Plus, you’ll want a find a model that’s more specific for your running needs to prolong the shoe’s lifespan.
The Micro G Foam midsole adds a nice level of responsiveness to this shoe’s performance or jumping and the TriBase tech in the outsole help give this shoe a balanced and stable feel when doing single-leg training. A cross-training shoe’s fit will be individual, however, as a general rule of thumb, you’ll likely want between .2-.6″ of room in the toe box. Step 1: Grab your cross-training shoes, a clean washcloth, a soft soap void of harsh dyes and fragrances, and you’ll need lukewarm water. For example, this shoe was stable enough for my 515 lb deadlifts and if you’re buying them for general strength work, then I think you’ll enjoy their performance for your asks. This shoe’s outsole grip is also solid on different surfaces and machines.Drew: I largely agree but wearing the Under Armour TriBase Reign 5 for running is a clunky experience that I don’t recommend. The impressive stability of the TriBase system makes each foot plant a bit too weighty while making it hard to flex your foot beyond the toes. That and heel landings are pretty stiff. Stationary bikes, however, are not an issue. The firm base actually helps generate more power in a similar way to TPU-bottomed cycling shoes. After performing a smoke test on the Nano X3 in the lab, we gave it a score of 4 out of 5 for ventilation. In the gym, this meant that our feet were consistently aerated and kept dry. Compared to one another, the Nano X3 and TriBase Reign 5 both work really well for CrossFit, but if I had to give a slight edge to one of these shoes I’d give it to the Nano X3 as I think it has a slightly wider range for WODs. If you’re investing in one of these shoes with the intention to use it for short runs here and there, then I would say the Nano X3 will take the edge over the TriBase Reign 5 for this context.