Nike Free Metcon 5 review: If you buy one Nike training shoe, make it this one
Nike Free Metcon 5: Two-Minute Review
In 2023, Nike released the Nike Metcon 9 – the latest iteration of its immensely popular training shoe line and one of the best gym shoes period. I expected to love it, but after wearing the shoe for a few weeks I found I couldn’t get along with its clunky upper and wide fit. Luckily, Nike had a ready-made alternative waiting in the wings: the Nike Free Metcon 5.
While the mainline Metcon is designed with CrossFitters in mind, this spin-off caters to the more general gym-goer, with decent stability for lifting weights complimented by more cushioning for cardio bouts. This makes it an incredibly versatile shoe that will see you through most workouts without a hitch.
Unlike the Metcon 9’s unaccommodating upper (partly down to thick rubber rope guards engulfing the midfoot) the Free Metcon 5 felt buttery soft from day dot, molding to my foot as soon as I slipped it on.
(Image credit: Future / Harry Bullmore)
The fit was fairly snug, so it might be worth ordering half a size up if you’re unsure, and I felt the toe box could have been slightly wider to allow more toe splay for balance. But aside from these minor qualms, I had no complaints.