I recently had the chance to attend the WIT x Nike Training Lab launch event in London for the all-new Nike Metcon 10 and after getting hands-on with the shoe in an actual workout, it’s clear that this isn’t just another iteration. This is Nike’s strongest return to functional training in years, and the Metcon 10 delivers the kind of performance hybrid athletes have been asking for.
Ten Years of Evolution
The Metcon line has come a long way since its original launch back in 2015, and this tenth edition feels like a true evolution. Designed to meet the needs of today’s hybrid athlete, think CrossFit, HYROX, strength, and conditioning, the Metcon 10 balances durability, versatility and comfort better than ever.
According to WIT co-founder Dan Williams, “Nike saw that we were super authentic in the training space. We know who the fittest customer is, and we know how to speak to them.” That authenticity is reflected in the shoe itself. Nike has clearly listened, not just to retailers, but to the training community at large.
First Impressions: Lightweight Yet Locked In
The first thing I noticed was the improved comfort. This is the lightest Metcon yet, and that’s immediately noticeable in both static lifting and fast-paced conditioning. It’s nimble without compromising on structure, which is a rare combination for shoes in this category.
The standout features for me included:
- Rubber grip wrap that climbs halfway up the shoe for enhanced traction during rope climbs
- Lace lock system to keep laces out of your way (a quiet but brilliant feature)
- Rigid heel and stable base ideal for movements like handstand push-ups and squats
- Softer, more responsive cushioning that handles both lifting and running with ease
- Breathable upper that keeps things cool even when training heats up
This shoe feels built for the full training spectrum, from heavy deadlifts to box jumps to sled pushes. Whether you’re chasing a HYROX PR or hitting your next Metcon, it responds to the task.
How It Performs in Real Training
I put the Metcon 10 through a full workout at the WIT x Nike Training Lab event, a sweaty mix of rowing, kettlebell lunges, air bike sprints, burpee overs and wall balls. Across all stations, the shoe held up impressively.
During dynamic movements, the grip and traction gave me total confidence. On the air bike, the pedal lockdown was solid. Through lunges and wall balls, there was no foot slide, and the midfoot lockdown gave just the right amount of support without over-constricting. I also found the energy return on the rower was surprisingly snappy, no lag or squishiness like you sometimes feel with softer trainers.
One of WIT’s big goals with this launch was to re-engage the community around the hybrid training space. As their co-founder Sam Kitchen put it, “We want to always be known as the most collaborative training brand, blending physical retail with experience. The Metcon 10 is part of that mission.”
So What’s New Compared to the Metcon 9?
From a design and tech standpoint, the biggest shift is balance. While the Metcon 9 leaned heavier toward lifting (and was criticised for being too stiff for some users), the Metcon 10 finds the sweet spot. It still delivers on stability and structure, but the added responsiveness and lighter feel make it far more approachable as a do-everything training shoe.
Final Verdict: BOXROX Rated 9/10
The Nike Metcon 10 is built for how we train now. With hybrid training on the rise and sports like CrossFit and HYROX influencing more gym-goers than ever, this shoe nails the crossover. It’s durable enough for strength, comfortable enough for cardio, and technical enough for skill-based movements.
While it may not be the go-to choice for pure Olympic lifters, it hits almost every other box. Lightweight, stable, grippy and genuinely fun to train in – it’s a major leap forward from the 9 and a welcome return to form for the Metcon line.
BOXROX Rating: 9.5/10
A near-perfect all-rounder that understands modern training better than most shoes on the market.
Where to Get It
The Nike Metcon 10 is exclusively available at Wit-training.com for the next two weeks.
You can also test and shop the shoe in person at the WIT x Nike Training Lab in Battersea, London, open until Sunday 24th August, with sessions and activations released weekly.
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