Nike Metcon 9

Many of you already know the previous models of the Nike Metcon 9. Surely if you are reading this review it's because you practise Crossfit, or you are thinking about getting started in this sport.

To get started, I would like to explain a little bit about Crossfit for those who don't know what it is. I started just a year ago and I admit that I was instantly hooked.

Crossfit is a high-intensity workout regimen that combines weightlifting, gymnastics, and endurance exercises.

If there was already a small jump from Metcon 7 to Nike Metcon 8 in this new edition of the American brand have wanted to make a leap in quality with these Nike Metcon 9.

What kind of athletes are the Nike Metcon 9 for?

Just hearing the name Metcon tells us what type of athlete these gym trainers are for. While they are primarily designed for crossfit, I wouldn't rule them out for strength days at the gym or even some type of HIIT.

In its 9th version, the Nike Metcon has a similar structure to the previous Nike Metcon 8. There are few changes from one model to another, but in my opinion the Metcon 9 has changes that make it the better version.

In the Metcon 9, the American maintains the one-piece mesh in its upper, but with some variation such as the protective mesh. Whereas in the Nike Metcon 8 it went from the middle of the upper to the outside of the trainer, in this new version the protective mesh goes from the toe to the middle of the upper in a triangular shape, a reinforcement that is designed to protect the trainer when climbing rope.

In my humble opinion and, the renewed Nike Metcon 9 has improved its midsole, so it feels more comfortable when running or with exercises such as jumping rope. While it's not comparable to a dedicated running shoe, it provides more comfort than its predecessor.

Another change in the Metcon 9 compared to the Mecton 8 is the outsole. This time Nike has changed both the shape of the sole and the lateral protection of the trainer. In this new model, the rubber reaches the middle of the outsole, unlike in the Metcon 8. Another protection so that your trainer doesn't suffer when climbing rope.

In the heel area, the Nike Metcon 9 incorporates a plate that Nike calls HYPERLIFT, which offers great stability for intense movements such as split squats, weightlifting movements, dead weights... but all this is what Nike tells us. Personally, what I notice is more comfort and more security, because it has a wider and softer heel without losing its characteristics. For me this is one of the best changes in the Metcon 9 compared to its predecessors.

What we liked the most about the Nike Metcon 9

Once we tested the Nike Metcon 9, there are two points that I liked about it:

• First point: it feels even more comfortable than the Metcon 8, although at first glance it seems a little narrower, I've felt that it's more comfortable.
• Second point: it's versatile and designed for Crossfit. How many Crossfit lovers want a comfortable and versatile trainer that allows us to do all the training excercises with the same shoes? Nike achieved this with its iconic Metcon series. In addition, the most positive thing is that, little by little, it is improving it, as in this occasion with the Nike Metcon 9.

Opportunities for improvement in the Nike Metcon 9

Despite these improvements, the Metcon 9 still falls short in the comfort department for running. It feels somewhat stiff, although it's an improvement over the Metcon 8 in this regard.

Which models can we compare the Nike Metcon 9 to?

Few brands like Nike launch a high-intensity training shoe focused on the Crossfit world. Reebok's Nano series is a direct competitor to Nike's Metcon line. The eternal debate in the BOX among crossfitters is: Metcon or Nano?

Final conclusions about the Nike Metcon 9

Despite the improvements over the Nike Metcon 8, after testing the latest update of the Nike Metcon 9, my thoughts remain similar and the final conclusions I draw are that they are a multipurpose gym trainers focused on crossfit. Designed to provide stability for weightlifting movements and resistance for the gymnastics portion of the workout. It falls short in the running aspect, as it lacks cushioning and feels quite hard.