Nike has made several updates in the Metcon 10 to improve versatility (especially in the cardio / dynamic movement realm) while still retaining stability for weightlifting:
| Feature | What Nike / reviewers say |
|---|---|
| Midsole Foam | ReactX foam in the midfoot / forefoot to provide more energy return and cushioning for dynamic movements. |
| Heel / Lifting Stability | A reworked Hyperlift plate (under the heel) that is “minimized” so it doesn’t feel as bulky, but still gives the rigidity needed for lifts. |
| Wider Toe Box | Nike widened the forefoot area to allow the toes to spread more, which helps in stability during lifts. |
| Flexibility & Mobility | New flex grooves in the outsole, lighter design, and reduced stiffness are intended to make it more comfortable for short runs, box jumps, and HIIT elements. |
| Traction / Outsole Design | Sticky / haptic rubber in high-wear zones (midfoot, toe) for grip. The rope-guard / rubber wrap has been pared back (less aggressive) than in Metcon 9. |
| Lockdown & Fit features | A midfoot band helps lock the foot in, and there’s a lace-lock system (lace tuck / pocket) to keep laces out of the way during dynamic parts of workouts. |
| Upper / Breathability | Engineered mesh upper with open holes, more airflow, and lighter overlays. |
| Weight & Drop | Nike claims the Metcon 10 is lighter than Metcon 9. Some reviews report a pair (US 10.5) weighs ~ 341 g / 12 oz. The heel-to-toe drop is 4 mm (a common value in Metcon models). |
What Reviewers & Early Users Like (Pros)
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Better versatility than recent Metcons — Many say the 10 is more capable for cardio / dynamic work (sprints, box jumps, etc.) than the 8 or 9, which leaned heavily toward rigidity and lifting.
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Good stability under heavy load — The heel / Hyperlift system still gives a solid, stable platform for squats, deadlifts, cleans.
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Grip & traction — The sticky rubber in the forefoot / toe area is praised for providing strong grips during dynamic movements (lunges, cleans, lateral work).
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Lockdown enhancements — The midfoot band, lace-locking, and improved upper geometry help reduce slippage and improve foot security in side-to-side / fast-movement work.
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Wider forefoot helps toe splay — Users like having more room in the front of the shoe, especially for lifts / grounding.
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More comfortable for short runs / cardio elements — Some reviewers say that the 10 feels better when you have to run or sprint for short spurts compared to past Metcons.
In actual use, the Metcon 10 tends to feel more balanced:
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During lifting (squats, deadlifts, cleans), the heel remains stable and firm. You don’t feel much “give” there.
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During dynamic movements (box jumps, sprints, lunges), the added ReactX and flex grooves help it feel less rigid and more forgiving than older Metcons.
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For short runs inside workouts, you may feel it’s not as cushioned or springy as a running-specific shoe, but it’s serviceable.
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The wider toe box helps with a stable base during ground pushes.
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The grip is reliable, especially under conditions where you need traction on forefoot or toe areas.
“Should You Get It?” — Who It’s Good / Less Good For
Good for you if you:
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Do CrossFit, strength + conditioning, functional fitness, or mixed modality workouts
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Want one pair that can handle lifts, jumps, short runs, and agility work reasonably well
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Prefer stable heels / want real support under heavy loads
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Value improved versatility (mobility + run elements) over pure rigidity
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Have moderate or narrow feet (given some fit constraints)
Might look elsewhere if you:
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Do a lot of long runs (you’re better off with a road / running-specific shoe)
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Need maximal cushioning for comfort above all else
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Have very wide feet and need that extreme width (some earlier Metcon versions had more room)
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Are very sensitive to break-in / prefer a shoe that’s comfortable from day one


















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