The Nike Metcon 9 is here and this is our hands-on review of Nike’s premier CrossFit training shoe.
The Metcon series is Nike’s ultimate, all-round cross training shoe. The series is known for improved flexibility for running and box jumping, greater stability for weightlifting, stronger traction for sled pushing and rope climbing, breathability and comfort for distance running, and durability for everyday abuse. Due to popularity and flexibility, the series is now in its ninth iteration, with some improvements and improvements.
Nike Metcon 9 – new for 2023:
First, let’s visit the shoe.
Nike Metcon 9 – Overview
What’s new? Large Hyperlift plate and wrap with extra rubber cord. Nike has made it more stable when doing heavy workouts like deadlifts, split squats, and other lower body exercises. The plate helps force the weight down and outward while adding stability to the heel. This stiffness makes you feel grounded and supported, especially under heavy loads.
Note that “Hyperlift” is not what it used to be. As the Nike Metcon 7 “Hyperlift” refers to the rigid heel plate on the shoe (as opposed to the traction heel height that comes with the Nike Metcon 5 and 6.
The rubber wrap on the side was extended for strength and support so you can mount any climbing rope at the same repetitive speed without worrying about wear and tear. It moves from the middle of the midsole to the upper and adds some support to the upper for multidirectional movement. The upper has a more reinforced toe cap and a wider upper than the previous version.
More is new. Functionally, it is very similar to the M8 and M7. It is strong, durable, and breathable. (Unlike the M6 - which had huge potholes everywhere).
Another interesting feature of the new Metcon is the outsole. It still uses full rubber to provide a solid cushioning for dynamic movements such as cleaning and walking lunges. There are many more areas for good traction. And it’s good on turf too – which was a weakness of some previous metcons (the M3/M4 was a bit slippery on planted ground).
The heel area has increased protection to provide more stability, similar to the previous version but with more cushioning. The midsole uses a double layer of foam that’s hard on the outside and soft on the inside to provide responsive cushioning for lasting comfort when you’re pounding through cardio and other moves. The Nike Metcon 9’s lace locking system has also been updated somewhat and is now attached to the tongue of the shoe to keep your laces in place.
The Nike Metcon 9 also comes in AMP and EasyOn versions. The AMP version is a fancier version of Metcon. It has a visual upgrade with bold styles and different colors and uses new materials. With this, you will pay more for a higher appearance. Another version is EasyOn, with Nike FlyEase technology to help make your Metcon 9 easier to put on and take off.
We haven’t reviewed the AMP version of the shoe – but historically AMP is a style upgrade without a performance upgrade.
Nike Metcon 9 Review – Ratings
I find the Metcon line of shoes to be tight in the toe area. There just isn’t enough width for me in my normal shoe size – so I always go up 1/2 size.
Everyone’s foot shape is different though. But I would say these fit the Nike Metcon 7 and Nike Metcon 8 – so if you have one of those consider getting the same size.
Nike Metcon 9 Review – Why is it so heavy?
There’s no denying it, the Nike Metcon 9 has been a bit of a porker. It’s almost 2 ounces per shoe – compared to the Nike Metcon 8 and Nike Metcon 7.
Why is it difficult? Well, that Hyperlift hard disk probably had something to do with it. It’s big – so it should weigh more. I’ll bet the increased weight of the rope wrap is also a factor – but I won’t tear the shoes apart to find out.
Either way, it’s a heavy shoe. But the shoes of the Metcon series were never light weight – because they are built like a tank.
Is the extra 1.8 – 2 oz worth it? It can be long distance or long term. All things being equal, I prefer light shoes rather than heavy ones.
Nike Metcon 9 Review – Brief
That’s our Nike Metcon 9 review.
Given that the Nike Metcon 9 is so stiff and flexible (and more expensive than ever) – my go to CrossFit style workout shoe in 2023 has been the Nike Free Metcon 5 – and I think it will continue to be.
You can read our Nike Free Metcon 5 review for more details on that.
Looking for more options? You can still find the Nike Metcon 7 (Recommended!) and the Nike Metcon 8 in a limited set of sizes from some retailers (but they’re getting harder to find!)
Many products from Nike
Photo Credits
Other product images on this page are the property of Nike.
This website is not affiliated or affiliated with CrossFit, Inc. CrossFit is a registered trademark of CrossFit, Inc.
Membership Disclaimer
