Nike's Metcon 10 represents a significant step toward versatility while maintaining its strength-training roots. Reviewers praised its lighter build, ReactX foam for shock absorption and energy return, and improved upper durability. The shoe offers better grip and a more flexible forefoot compared to prior models, though some noted limited breathability and a potentially too-low-profile fit for certain users. RunRepeat called it one of the series's most successful iterations yet, suitable for athletes focused on lifting and agility but wanting more versatility.
Full review
Design Evolution
Nike's Metcon 10 represents a significant shift from the heavily criticized Metcon 9, which was described by GearJunkie's Billy Brown as 'practically a weightlifting shoe more closely akin to the extremely stiff Romaleos than the freewheeling early Metcon line.' The 10 addresses many of the complaints about its predecessor by reducing upper material, creating a lighter, more flexible silhouette. The shoe features a redesigned Hyperlift heel plate that's now embedded into the foam rather than sandwiched between layers, allowing for full flexibility while maintaining stability. According to RunRepeat's review, 'the Nike Metcon 10 boasts a significantly lighter, more streamlined silhouette without losing stability points at all!' The new open-holed engineered mesh upper, reminiscent of the Zoom Metcon Turbo 2, provides mobility without sacrificing foot containment. However, the upper's mesh design does result in 'just acceptable' breathability, which is vastly improved from the 'foot sauna' experience of the Metcon 9, as noted by AsManyReviewsAsPossible.
Performance and Comfort
The introduction of ReactX foam in the Metcon 10 delivers tangible improvements in shock absorption and energy return compared to the Metcon 9. RunRepeat measured 76 SA in the heel and 60 SA in the forefoot, compared to 69 SA and 51 SA respectively in the previous model. The energy return increased to 63% in the heel and 61.2% in the forefoot, making jumps and agility drills more enjoyable. However, despite these improvements, the shoe is still not recommended for extended cardio sessions or running more than a mile, as noted by both RunRepeat and That Fit Friend. The shoe's heel-to-toe drop is approximately 4mm, and the midsole design provides a balance between cushioning and stability. According to GearJunkie's Billy Brown, the Metcon 10 'feels more flexible and pliable than the 9' with a 'smooth heel-to-toe transition' compared to the 'clomp-stomp' sound of the previous model. The redesigned outsole uses 004 Sticky Rubber in the forefoot and heel, with harder wearing rubber in the midfoot for rope wear, featuring a uniform recessed triangular lug pattern that provides excellent grip on gym surfaces.
Stability and Lifting Performance
Despite its lighter, more flexible nature, the Metcon 10 maintains its core strength training capabilities through the continued use of the Hyperlift plate. This plate, now embedded into the foam rather than sandwiched between layers, provides stability for heavy lifts while allowing for full flexibility throughout the shoe. RunRepeat confirmed that 'the Nike Metcon 10 stays true to its lifting-biased design' with its 'sturdy build and a rigid Hyperlift plate in the heel.' The shoe's construction allows for excellent stability during squats and deadlifts, with the Hyperlift plate providing minimal compression under force. However, the shoe's stability is somewhat compromised by the removal of the medial rope guard, which was replaced by a midfoot band. As noted by AsManyReviewsAsPossible, 'the lower sidewall means theres some exposed midsole foam, which after about 5 climbs is already showing wear,' though this doesn't appear to significantly affect performance. The shoe's heel counter is described as 'stiff' by RunRepeat, providing good support for lifting activities, while the midfoot support band helps with rope climbs and side-to-side movements.
Fit and Sizing
Fit is a major improvement over the Metcon 9, with the Metcon 10 offering a more comfortable, roomier toe box that addresses the snug fit complaints of previous models. RunRepeat noted that 'the wide toe box that the Metcon 9 introduced remains consistent with the 10,' providing 'breathing room' that is 'great if past Metcons felt a little snug.' That Fit Friend's Jake Boly reported that the shoe is 'true to size' and 'no break-in period needed,' with a 'slightly roomier toe box' that 'gives your foot a bit more breathing room.' However, sizing remains a concern for some users, with GearJunkie's Billy Brown noting that 'the Metcon 10 skews the other direction, feeling just shy of too loose' compared to the snug fit of the Metcon 9. The shoe's upper features a 'dense' ankle collar that prevents heel slip, though some users may experience 'heel cuff is fairly loose' issues. The lace pocket, or 'pleasure pocket,' helps address issues with the upper flaring out when laced up, and reverse lacing through the front of the shoe fixes this problem.
Durability and Wear
Durability is a mixed bag for the Metcon 10, with some positive aspects and notable concerns. RunRepeat praised the 'fantastic upper durability (even for rope climbs)' and noted that the reinforced print across the upper keeps the shoe durable in high-friction areas. However, the outsole's durability is questioned, with AsManyReviewsAsPossible reporting that 'the lower sidewall means theres some exposed midsole foam, which after about 5 climbs is already showing wear.' The shoe's construction uses a combination of materials, with 004 Sticky Rubber in the forefoot and heel, and harder wearing rubber in the midfoot for rope wear. The Hyperlift plate is embedded into the foam, which may affect durability over time. That Fit Friend's Jake Boly noted that while the upper holds up well against wear and tear, 'the midfoot support band' may not last as long as expected. The shoe's overall build quality is described as 'sturdy' by RunRepeat, but the 'decal' on the outsole is described as 'ugly' by AsManyReviewsAsPossible after rope climbing.
Versatility and Value
The Metcon 10 is positioned as a more versatile training shoe compared to its predecessor, with RunRepeat giving it a 91/100 score for 'Superb Cross-training/HIIT' and 88/100 for cardio. The shoe performs well in 'agile and high-impact exercises' and is described as 'more versatile' and 'more flexible' than the Metcon 9. However, the shoe is still not recommended for extended cardio sessions or running, with RunRepeat noting that 'we wouldn't recommend using this Nike trainer for an entire cardio session, running more than a mile, or long bouts of walking.' The shoe's versatility is further limited by its 'strong arch support' which may not appeal to all users, according to GearJunkie's Billy Brown. The price point of $155 is competitive with similar products, though the Metcon 10's performance in specific areas like running or cardio is limited compared to dedicated alternatives. The shoe's value is further questioned by the 'limited breathability for longer workouts' noted by RunRepeat, and the 'not the best runner' designation by GearJunkie, suggesting that while it's a good all-around trainer, it's not the best choice for athletes who prioritize running or cardio.
Built for Metcon loyalists wanting more flexibility
The Metcon 10 is best suited for athletes who primarily focus on strength training and CrossFit workouts, with some cardio and agility work. RunRepeat's review identifies 'athletes who are devoted to the Nike Metcon shoe series but wished for a lighter and more flexible option' as ideal candidates. The shoe's 'sturdy build and a rigid Hyperlift insert' make it 'dedicated to strength training but becomes a touch more well-rounded.' GearJunkie's Billy Brown recommends it for those who enjoy 'lifting and tossing around heavy weight the most' and want a shoe that's 'perfect for it' while also being more flexible for other movements. The shoe is particularly appealing to those who want 'one shoe that does it all' and 'hit a mix of strength and functional training.' However, it's not ideal for athletes who prioritize running or cardio, as the shoe is 'not the answer for athletes whose workouts are heavily programmed with short runs, a lot of jumping, and some lifting.' The shoe's 'strong arch support' may not appeal to those with flat feet, as noted by That Fit Friend's Jake Boly, who suggests it's 'not flat feet friendly.' The shoe's 'wide toe box' and 'low-profile upper' appeal to those who prefer a more athletic fit, but may not suit those with extra wide feet or boxier toe boxes.
Outsole shows wear after five rope climbs
Despite its improvements, the Metcon 10 falls short in several key areas. The most significant criticism comes from its limited breathability, with RunRepeat noting 'limited breathability for longer workouts' and GearJunkie's Billy Brown stating that 'the upper's mesh design does result in 'just acceptable' breathability.' The shoe is not recommended for extended cardio sessions or running, as RunRepeat warns that 'we wouldn't recommend using this Nike trainer for an entire cardio session, running more than a mile, or long bouts of walking.' The outsole's durability is questioned, with AsManyReviewsAsPossible reporting that 'the lower sidewall means theres some exposed midsole foam, which after about 5 climbs is already showing wear.' Additionally, the shoe's 'strong arch support' may not appeal to all users, particularly those with flat feet, according to That Fit Friend's Jake Boly. The Metcon 10 also lacks the versatility for athletes who need a shoe that performs well in all modalities, as it's still 'not the best runner' and 'not great for short runs' as noted by multiple reviewers. The 'limited breathability for longer workouts' and 'not the best runner' designations suggest that while it's an improvement over the Metcon 9, it's not a complete solution for athletes seeking a truly all-purpose training shoe.
Strengths
- +More versatile than previous Metcon models (Metcon 7, 8, 9)
- +Lighter and more streamlined silhouette without losing stability
- +ReactX foam provides increased shock absorption and energy return
- +Improved upper durability, especially for rope climbs
- +Better grip on gym floors with reworked outsole
Watch-outs
- −Outsole could be more durable for heavy use
- −Limited breathability for longer workouts
- −Fit may be too low-profile for some users
How it compares
The Nike Metcon 10 offers better versatility and lighter build than the R.A.D. One V2, which has a more planted platform. However, it doesn't match the Nike Free Metcon 6 in terms of flexibility and breathability for HIIT workouts.
Rating sources
Our 4.4 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
