As it says right on the shoe itself, the Nike Metcon 8 is engineered to the exact specifications of championship athletes. Featuring a lighter upper with improved airflow, this model still includes many of the most popular elements of the Metcon cross-training series: React foam for optimal comfort and cushioning, grooves in the sole to let your forefoot bend naturally, and lock-down lace tabs to prevent untying during high-intensity training. The shoe’s wide, flat, and flexible heel includes an inner plate that distributes weight from edge to edge for added stability, and rubber wraps along the arch offer better traction on rope climbs.