Personal Trainer's Preferred Gym Shoe Available Under $100 Instead of Prime Day Deal
The Nike Metcon 9, the latest iteration of the popular cross-training shoe, has hit the market with several key improvements designed to elevate performance for lifters and cross-trainers.
First introduced to the cross-training footwear scene nearly a decade ago, the Nike Metcon has earned a reputation for its versatility, suitable for short sprints, gymnastics, and lower-body lifts. The latest version continues this tradition, offering a wider toe box to address a common athlete complaint from earlier models, providing more room for toe splay and comfort without sacrificing a sleek look.
One of the standout features of the Nike Metcon 9 is its larger Hyperlift plate, which enhances stability during heavy lifts. This improvement helps keep the shoe grounded, improving lifting mechanics, making it an ideal choice for those who engage in weightlifting activities.
The Nike Metcon 9 also boasts a dual-density foam midsole, replacing the previous Nike React foam. This new foam offers a balance of stability and responsiveness suitable for both lifting and dynamic movements, ensuring a comfortable and efficient workout experience.
Other notable improvements include a rubber rope wrap added to the shoe upper for improved durability and grip during rope climbs, protecting the shoe from abrasion. Additionally, a lace locking mechanism has been implemented to prevent the laces from coming undone during intense workouts, ensuring consistent fit and safety.
The Nike Metcon 9 also features an easy-to-clean upper with a haptic print, designed for practical use, making the shoe easier to maintain after training sessions. Moreover, the shoe contains at least 50% recycled content by weight, reflecting Nike's commitment to environmental initiatives.
While the Nike Metcon 9 offers numerous improvements, it's essential to note that some users might find a slightly higher price point compared to prior models and a change in foam technology, which might feel different to long-time users of Metcon 7 or 8.
For those who appreciate the history of the Nike Metcon, the iconic Metcon 1 OG, the original taste of the Metcon range, is being re-released. Priced at $155, the Metcon 1 OG is a collector's item and a separate release from the current Metcon 9.
In a surprising turn of events, the Metcon 1 OG is priced higher than the current Metcon 9, which is available at a discounted price of $90.97 on nike.com. The Metcon 9's discount amounts to a savings of 39%.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness enthusiast looking for a versatile training shoe, the Nike Metcon 9 offers improved fit, lifting stability, durability, and responsiveness, making it a reliable choice for athletes needing a shoe capable of handling both weightlifting and varied fitness activities.
[1] Nike. (2023). Nike Metcon 9. Retrieved from https://www.nike.com/gb/en_gb/pd/nike-metcon-9-cross-training-shoe/5H1035-400 [2] Nike. (2023). Nike Metcon 1 OG. Retrieved from https://www.nike.com/gb/en_gb/pd/nike-metcon-1-og-cross-training-shoe/DQ6129-001 [3] Nike. (2023). Nike Metcon 10. Retrieved from https://www.nike.com/gb/en_gb/pd/nike-metcon-10-cross-training-shoe/DQ6314-001
In this health-and-wellness context, the Nike Metcon 9, designed for lifting and dynamic exercises, also showcases improvements in lifestyle aspects such as its easy-to-clean upper with a haptic print, suitable for the home-and-garden environment after training sessions. Moreover, the brand's commitment to environmental initiatives is apparent through the use of at least 50% recycled content in the shoe. Additionally, for those who appreciate the history of the Nike Metcon, the fashion-oriented home-and-garden enthusiast might take an interest in the re-release of the iconic Metcon 1 OG, serving as a unique piece for home decor or display in a dedicated fitness-and-exercise space.
