I got the Haze Trainers. BEST training shoe I've ever worn. Great stability, comfort, and style. Got the white/gum shoe. I put my custom orthotic in and it feels phenomenal. The solid one piece rubber sole is a great feeling. No heel slip. Very breathable shoe. I primarily lift in them with moderate cardio. Follow the size guide. Put a piece of paper on the floor, stand on it, trace the toes and heel, measure it and order the size closest to the measurement. It was on the money.
So after wearing the haze and savage 1, I think I’m leaning toward the haze being better. I maybe needed 1/2 size bigger than I got. But it’s not a big deal. I swapped some elastic no too strings from Amazon because I wasn’t a fan of the strings but now they are just great! 5 sessions in them. Lifting , running, jumping. Going great.
I got the Haze Trainers after seeing Joel's AMRAP video. I was super excited to get new shoes after being a Nano person for many years (except for 1 pair of squeaky Metcon's). I ordered size 9's, which are my normal size and when I got them it was like a vice was squeezing across the top of my foot. I thought it'd loosen up after a little bit but no such luck. I do have a fairly thick & wide foot but never had this experience with a shoe before. I ordered a pair of 9.5's, because I wanted them to work, and they are 'better' but still tight. I wore them too much trying to break them in that I couldn't return them based on SM's strict return policy. I can see everything good you say about the shoe and really wish they would have worked for me but no such luck! Maybe I'll give the Rad One's a try after I check with them on best size for me! Thanks for the tip and the great review videos! Cheers!
Ah, damn! Yeah, that’s my one niche sizing gripe about the Haze - their volume in the forefoot can be pretty tight for some foot anatomies. If you decide to grab the RAD ONE, definitely keep me updated on your thoughts with their sizing! And thank you 💪
Love my RAD 1s. Only downsides are they hold sweat and smell easily and I gotta spray them n stuff often. And two the midsole can be scratched easily. Hitting a machine took a line/gash out
Hey bro! Your reviews are awesome! I use xero 360 and luv them and looking at getting the haze. I wear size 10 in xero 360. Should a size 10 for the haze be a good fit? Thanks man and keep up the great work 💪🏻🏋️
Ok man, here we go. Metcon 5,6, 7, adidas 10,11,12, strike movement etc. This is what I do. Newb guy here, just starting to get fit. NO rope climbing ha! Strictly hiit 30 workouts 5-6 times per week, all indoors, on a padded surface. Burpees, hip dips, some upper body weight training, step-ups...... (no deadlifts etc.). Losing weight and getting stronger! I use jogging shoes right now (asics nimbus) but seem overkill with the cushion of the shoe + the padded flooring. Would like something more stable and comunicative with the ground. Whatever you recommend, I will buy. With that being said.....do i need the latest and greatest? Going with an older model and saving a few bux I'm open to as well! As being indoors only, these shoes will probably last me years (no pressure ;) ) Tia!
What’s your foot width and do you like more or less arch support? I’ll shout a few options once I know this! Will try to go with older models, too, to help you save some money!
@@thatfitfriend is the strike movement to much shoe for me (i think there's a sale going on in Canada)? My wife will be looking as well with a wider foot. Same parameters, same hiit 30 class. Would those shoes you mentioned be good for her as well? Thx sooooo much for your guidance!!!
@@wusthof641 it won’t be too much of the price point isn’t a turn off! I like the Haze trainer, but never try to recommend pricier models for more general because it’s not necessarily needed per se. It’s a great model though! Should be fine for both of y’all (str/ke + others)!
Jake, thank you for the thorough review. I am currently in the XERO 360s due to a preference for a wide toe box. Which do you recommend transitioning to? I know the Haze has a lower drop.
Hey man, Thanks for the great video. I have flat foot and each time I do double unders heavy metcons or lots of jerks or push presses I have huge pain in the arch area. Which shoe would you recommend? Rad, Haze, metcons, or the new tyr?
Can you review this shoe on Nike called the “Nike MC Trainer”. I think it’s a new training shoe they released wanted to see if it’s a good training shoe?
Loving the reviews man! Question, I do a lot of heavy lifting 500+ which you say both are good at, and in your individual reviews on the shoes you mention short running is alright. I also run up to 5-8 miles regularly for work (military). Which one would you say would be better for those slightly longer sessions??
Thank you, sir! Super envious of your total, btw. IMO, I'd go RAD for your context. They'll be more comfortable for that distance, too. I also think they'll be more durable in the long run for your asks as well.
Great review man! I’m using Metcon 8 for cross training and my heels are suffering. Which one do you recommend between both in terms of performing versatile trainings? Thanks!!
Thank you! Honestly, both of these shoes will deliver for you. I'd go with the model that aligns best with your colorway/price preferences. The Haze is a smidge wider, too, so keep that in mind!
Jake, new to your page.. great content. I have never had a shoe for working out so I’m completely new to the game. Based of your review pages I believe I narrowed it down to one of these two. I was leaning towards the Haze trainers but I’m unsure because of the ‘minimalist’ feel. When I run I strike with my heel pretty heavily. Could this be a problem? If not one of these two what shoe would you recommend? Training is pretty much CrossFit with a few miles running mixed in through the week. Thanks!
Hi!!! Great review! Thanks!! I am wearing metcon 6 and 7 size US 12. What size do you think will fit best in strike mvmt haze? Get the same size as metcon 7? In nanos i am a size US 12 too.
I’ve ever only owned Nanos (8 and X), but looking to branch out - and upgrade. Either one “feel” more like a Nano? Suspect it’s the RADs, but thought it was worth asking. Thanks!
Hi Jake - love the reviews! Proper great info! I’ve been rocking a size 11.5US nano 9 for years. Love the fit from it. What size in either shoe (rad in particular) would be best??
Thank you! Stay 11.5 in the Haze and go 12 in the RAD, IMO. Tough to say definitively without knowing your anatomy, but I think you'll be safe with those. Sorry for the late reply, btw, been in the mountains for a couple of days!
Hey Jake. I’m looking to finally replace my Hylete Circuit 2’s. The shoes have done pretty well but the toebox has begun to pinch my pinky toe. Do you think either of these are a worthy replacement? I have flat/wide feet, wear a size 14(In these specifically), and lift rather heavy(600lb plus squats/deadlifts).
How’s the toe box w the haze trainer? I’m someone who’s transitioned to “barefoot” anatomical footwear and find traditional toe boxes extremely uncomfortable but looking for something in the CF space. Also open for recs if the haze trainers aren’t the one
They're pretty anatomical. Are they going to be as wide as true BF shoes? No, but I find their width to be fine for my E-width foot and a lot of lifters feel similar. The Born Prim Savage 1 can be another great option that has a little more width if you want to play it safe
Gun to my head…I’d probably go Haze for most of my lifting sessions and that’s due to me liking the midsole/outsole maneuverability. I think since I like training in barefoot shoes in conjunction with cross training shoes I’ve come to prefer shoes that provide a lot of ground feedback! RAD would be my pick for CrossFit sessions that include more exercises like rope climbs.
Hey Jake, so I’ve had my Metcon 7s (size 9) for about a year now. I use them for heavy deadlifts, rope climbs, squats, Metcons, 200-800m runs on concrete. I have flat-ish feet and have an issue with the bottom of my feet cramping. I also noticed as my Metcons have broken in, I can stick one finger in the back of my heel. What would you recommend?
I'd go with either option here. RAD will be a little more snug and supportive whereas STRIKE will feel a smidge wider with less arch and midfoot. Both can be great. If you buy the STRIKE model, I'd get them off Box Basics. They have a MUCH better return process compared to STRIKE
I love my Metcon 7s but want something lighter for HIIT classes on days that are focused more on Cardio with Burpees, Plyo, Sprints. I am one year out from an ACL replacement so I need some stability, especially with lateral movements. I’m debating between these two shoes and the Free Metcon 4 for my cardio day shoes. Which of those three would be best for what I’m looking for?
Honestly, either of these would be solid! The haze will give you more ground feel and mobility, but the RAD gives you a tad more cushion for plyos. I would pass on the Free Metcon 4 especially if it’s being compared with these!
Rad one vs nano x2/ 6mm drop vs 7mm drop? I’m torn between the two. I’ve been wearing nano 5s(3/4mm) for years and want a little more heel drop. Which one is stiffer and better suited for lifting? I loved that my nano5s were stiff but now I need a wider toe box and bigger heel drop. Which would you choose? I already have lifters:)
I like the RAD, but they don’t have the widest toe box. The Nano are okay, but won’t give you the stiffness that you got from the 5. IMO, based on your wants, the ballistic trainer from GORUCK could be worth looking into!
@@thatfitfriend I thought he might have been a founder or owner - he’s one of my absolute fave movement specialists but he’s moved away from that in recent years
You mentioned that you use the EZ Haze Trainers pretty regularly. How have they held up with rope climbs? I have used some Inov-8s for years that held up great to lots of wear and tear but want something with a wide toe box. Looking a the Haze trainer but do not want to sacrifice on durability, especially with cost being higher overall. Your thoughts?
They're okay and they've held up well for the volume in which I do climbs. I don't do rope climbs every training block; when I do, I'll hit them 1-2x a week. In the context of comparing them to Inov-8, I would take something like the G 300 over the Haze for long-term durability. I would say the Haze is most similar to the 235 V3 and 260 V2 in regard to climbing performance/durability. Does that answer your question? Let me know if you have any follow-ups!
@@thatfitfriend That does help. I have purchased a pair of the 270s but I read some reviews that made it seems as though the shoe was geared towards new athletes. I am in year 5 or 6 of doing CrossFit so not sure I need a shoe geared toward someone new (although what those differences would be I am struggling to determine). Do you have any thoughts on the Haze vs the 270? I like the 8mm drop on the 270 as my prior shoe (old generation Inov-8) also had that. The 4mm drop does give me hesitation but the wider toe box for my wider foot is intriguing. Durability is the biggest decider though and I currently don't know anyone personally that has a pair of the Haze Trainers. I welcome your thoughts on all the above.
@@woodyparramore5091 imo, if you like how the 270 fits/feels I’d stick with that model and let it run its course! Once that shoe has broken down, then the Haze would be a good option to explore.
Both are! The Haze can be meh for that context though due to it having a finer tread. The RAD are pretty great, but be warned - I ripped the upper on both my Haze/RAD going for digs playing pickleball!
Yeah, that’s usually the main knock against them. I often recommend trying them worst through The Wod Life or other third party sellers because it’s easier to return em. Sorry your experience stunk, brother
I got the Haze Trainers. BEST training shoe I've ever worn. Great stability, comfort, and style. Got the white/gum shoe. I put my custom orthotic in and it feels phenomenal. The solid one piece rubber sole is a great feeling. No heel slip. Very breathable shoe. I primarily lift in them with moderate cardio. Follow the size guide. Put a piece of paper on the floor, stand on it, trace the toes and heel, measure it and order the size closest to the measurement. It was on the money.
Hell yeah, stoked to hear that. The white/gum colorway is sick, too, great taste!
Bro even though I still can’t get the Rad Trainers yet, i know all the ppl including myself appreciate the comparison
Appreciate you checking this one out! NGL this was probably my most difficult comparison to date - both are so solid in different ways.
it’s me from 1980 again. psych!! that’s so radical dude. keep up the rad reviews!!!
So after wearing the haze and savage 1, I think I’m leaning toward the haze being better. I maybe needed 1/2 size bigger than I got. But it’s not a big deal. I swapped some elastic no too strings from Amazon because I wasn’t a fan of the strings but now they are just great! 5 sessions in them. Lifting , running, jumping. Going great.
Hell yeah!
@@thatfitfriend no tie* game changers lol did isn’t the savage also. They are still good but I think in digging the haze more.
@@millerfamilyfitness84 feel you! Haze is also my preferred for daily driving and gen sessions. They have such a solid feel!
I got the Haze Trainers after seeing Joel's AMRAP video. I was super excited to get new shoes after being a Nano person for many years (except for 1 pair of squeaky Metcon's). I ordered size 9's, which are my normal size and when I got them it was like a vice was squeezing across the top of my foot. I thought it'd loosen up after a little bit but no such luck. I do have a fairly thick & wide foot but never had this experience with a shoe before. I ordered a pair of 9.5's, because I wanted them to work, and they are 'better' but still tight. I wore them too much trying to break them in that I couldn't return them based on SM's strict return policy.
I can see everything good you say about the shoe and really wish they would have worked for me but no such luck! Maybe I'll give the Rad One's a try after I check with them on best size for me! Thanks for the tip and the great review videos! Cheers!
Ah, damn! Yeah, that’s my one niche sizing gripe about the Haze - their volume in the forefoot can be pretty tight for some foot anatomies.
If you decide to grab the RAD ONE, definitely keep me updated on your thoughts with their sizing!
And thank you 💪
I took out the insole and it fits way better for me. Then I just found a really thin insert to put in.
My brain says Haze my heart says Rad.
Love my RAD 1s. Only downsides are they hold sweat and smell easily and I gotta spray them n stuff often. And two the midsole can be scratched easily. Hitting a machine took a line/gash out
Hey bro!
Your reviews are awesome! I use xero 360 and luv them and looking at getting the haze. I wear size 10 in xero 360. Should a size 10 for the haze be a good fit? Thanks man and keep up the great work 💪🏻🏋️
Thank you! Yeah, size 10 should be fine in the Haze for you as well!
Appreciate ya! Thanks 🙏🏻
Ok man, here we go.
Metcon 5,6, 7, adidas 10,11,12, strike movement etc. This is what I do. Newb guy here, just starting to get fit. NO rope climbing ha! Strictly hiit 30 workouts 5-6 times per week, all indoors, on a padded surface. Burpees, hip dips, some upper body weight training, step-ups...... (no deadlifts etc.). Losing weight and getting stronger! I use jogging shoes right now (asics nimbus) but seem overkill with the cushion of the shoe + the padded flooring. Would like something more stable and comunicative with the ground. Whatever you recommend, I will buy. With that being said.....do i need the latest and greatest? Going with an older model and saving a few bux I'm open to as well! As being indoors only, these shoes will probably last me years (no pressure ;) ) Tia!
What’s your foot width and do you like more or less arch support? I’ll shout a few options once I know this!
Will try to go with older models, too, to help you save some money!
@@thatfitfriend Normal width, more arch rather than less. I wear and like olukai flip flops for the arch support if that helps lol
@@wusthof641 got it! Check out the adidas Dropset, Nike metcon 7 (if you can find on sale), OluKai Mio LI (if you love OluKai), or Nano X1 adventure!
@@thatfitfriend is the strike movement to much shoe for me (i think there's a sale going on in Canada)? My wife will be looking as well with a wider foot. Same parameters, same hiit 30 class. Would those shoes you mentioned be good for her as well? Thx sooooo much for your guidance!!!
@@wusthof641 it won’t be too much of the price point isn’t a turn off! I like the Haze trainer, but never try to recommend pricier models for more general because it’s not necessarily needed per se. It’s a great model though!
Should be fine for both of y’all (str/ke + others)!
I'm so torn. Color and size availability is tough with the Rads. They never seem to have the all black in my size.
Feel that, wish they had sand when I ordered these!
Jake, thank you for the thorough review. I am currently in the XERO 360s due to a preference for a wide toe box. Which do you recommend transitioning to? I know the Haze has a lower drop.
Haze for sure!
Hey man,
Thanks for the great video.
I have flat foot and each time I do double unders heavy metcons or lots of jerks or push presses I have huge pain in the arch area.
Which shoe would you recommend?
Rad, Haze, metcons, or the new tyr?
The RAD or TYR would be my go-to suggestions here! May be worth waiting for the TYR, IMO.
@@thatfitfriend thank you
Can you review this shoe on Nike called the “Nike MC Trainer”. I think it’s a new training shoe they released wanted to see if it’s a good training shoe?
For sure! I’ll add them to the queue
Loving the reviews man! Question, I do a lot of heavy lifting 500+ which you say both are good at, and in your individual reviews on the shoes you mention short running is alright. I also run up to 5-8 miles regularly for work (military). Which one would you say would be better for those slightly longer sessions??
Thank you, sir! Super envious of your total, btw.
IMO, I'd go RAD for your context. They'll be more comfortable for that distance, too. I also think they'll be more durable in the long run for your asks as well.
@@thatfitfriend Thank you I appreciate that! I wish I had your pulling strength though! Haha
@@Tbergan67 appreciate that 🤝
if you’re ever in the Denver area, hit me and we’ll train 💪
Thoughts on using Inov-8 Boomerang insoles in the RAD One?
I'd love to grab that purple color if it's ever available again. Cheers.
Would prob be fine!
I just got the Metcon 7 X
Do you like them?
@@thatfitfriend they’re being delivered today 🤣 but from your review it seems like an improvement from the 6’s (which I currently use)
Great review man! I’m using Metcon 8 for cross training and my heels are suffering. Which one do you recommend between both in terms of performing versatile trainings? Thanks!!
Thank you! Honestly, both of these shoes will deliver for you. I'd go with the model that aligns best with your colorway/price preferences. The Haze is a smidge wider, too, so keep that in mind!
@@thatfitfriend Thanks for the advice! Just one more question if you allow me… How do you compare Nobull trainer with these two?
Jake, new to your page.. great content.
I have never had a shoe for working out so I’m completely new to the game. Based of your review pages I believe I narrowed it down to one of these two. I was leaning towards the Haze trainers but I’m unsure because of the ‘minimalist’ feel. When I run I strike with my heel pretty heavily. Could this be a problem? If not one of these two what shoe would you recommend? Training is pretty much CrossFit with a few miles running mixed in through the week.
Thanks!
IMO, for your context I'd go RAD ONE. It will be more forgiving for your heel strike/running needs!
And thank you + welcome!
Thank you so much for the reply!
@@trampthemastr1 Welcome! Shout if you have additional questions
Hi!!! Great review! Thanks!! I am wearing metcon 6 and 7 size US 12. What size do you think will fit best in strike mvmt haze? Get the same size as metcon 7? In nanos i am a size US 12 too.
I'd stay same size at 12! Thanks for checking out the content!
I’ve ever only owned Nanos (8 and X), but looking to branch out - and upgrade. Either one “feel” more like a Nano? Suspect it’s the RADs, but thought it was worth asking. Thanks!
Yeah, I think the RAD would be the most comparable! If you decide to grab a pair, def keep me posted on your thoughts 💪
Hi Jake - love the reviews! Proper great info! I’ve been rocking a size 11.5US nano 9 for years. Love the fit from it. What size in either shoe (rad in particular) would be best??
Thank you! Stay 11.5 in the Haze and go 12 in the RAD, IMO.
Tough to say definitively without knowing your anatomy, but I think you'll be safe with those.
Sorry for the late reply, btw, been in the mountains for a couple of days!
@@thatfitfriend thanks man! Appreciate the reply and information🙏🏻
Hey Jake. I’m looking to finally replace my Hylete Circuit 2’s. The shoes have done pretty well but the toebox has begun to pinch my pinky toe. Do you think either of these are a worthy replacement? I have flat/wide feet, wear a size 14(In these specifically), and lift rather heavy(600lb plus squats/deadlifts).
For your context, I'd go with the Haze Trainer. The RAD ONE will run too narrow for your anatomy, IMO.
How’s the toe box w the haze trainer? I’m someone who’s transitioned to “barefoot” anatomical footwear and find traditional toe boxes extremely uncomfortable but looking for something in the CF space. Also open for recs if the haze trainers aren’t the one
They're pretty anatomical. Are they going to be as wide as true BF shoes? No, but I find their width to be fine for my E-width foot and a lot of lifters feel similar.
The Born Prim Savage 1 can be another great option that has a little more width if you want to play it safe
But if you HAD to choose only one?
Gun to my head…I’d probably go Haze for most of my lifting sessions and that’s due to me liking the midsole/outsole maneuverability. I think since I like training in barefoot shoes in conjunction with cross training shoes I’ve come to prefer shoes that provide a lot of ground feedback!
RAD would be my pick for CrossFit sessions that include more exercises like rope climbs.
@@Buynefamilie loves the RAD shoes! Which colorway did you go with and what do you like most?
@@Buynefamilie that’s such a sick colorway. Love the feedback and your insights here - thank you for sharing!
Hey Jake, so I’ve had my Metcon 7s (size 9) for about a year now. I use them for heavy deadlifts, rope climbs, squats, Metcons, 200-800m runs on concrete. I have flat-ish feet and have an issue with the bottom of my feet cramping. I also noticed as my Metcons have broken in, I can stick one finger in the back of my heel. What would you recommend?
I'd go with either option here. RAD will be a little more snug and supportive whereas STRIKE will feel a smidge wider with less arch and midfoot. Both can be great.
If you buy the STRIKE model, I'd get them off Box Basics. They have a MUCH better return process compared to STRIKE
@@thatfitfriend thank you!!!!
Hey Jake, I’m going from a Nano x2 in a Uk10.5 how would you suggest I size the Haze?
Did you size down for the X2?
I love my Metcon 7s but want something lighter for HIIT classes on days that are focused more on Cardio with Burpees, Plyo, Sprints. I am one year out from an ACL replacement so I need some stability, especially with lateral movements. I’m debating between these two shoes and the Free Metcon 4 for my cardio day shoes. Which of those three would be best for what I’m looking for?
Honestly, either of these would be solid! The haze will give you more ground feel and mobility, but the RAD gives you a tad more cushion for plyos.
I would pass on the Free Metcon 4 especially if it’s being compared with these!
@@thatfitfriend thanks. Sounds like the Free is a definite no. I may just go by looks…the RAD design is awesome
@@chadswaney2048 IMO, def worth a try!
Rad one vs nano x2/ 6mm drop vs 7mm drop? I’m torn between the two. I’ve been wearing nano 5s(3/4mm) for years and want a little more heel drop. Which one is stiffer and better suited for lifting? I loved that my nano5s were stiff but now I need a wider toe box and bigger heel drop. Which would you choose? I already have lifters:)
I like the RAD, but they don’t have the widest toe box. The Nano are okay, but won’t give you the stiffness that you got from the 5.
IMO, based on your wants, the ballistic trainer from GORUCK could be worth looking into!
@@thatfitfriend thanks for the suggestion- I had not heard of them. And now I think I’m sold. Thanks.
@@kururuvai let me know what you end up with/how you like them!
how do the STRIKE Haze fit compared to the X3? I had to size down a half size for the X3.
STR/KE typically fit more TTS!
Which one is better for wearing casually sockless?
Very specific, but Haze, IMO!
Do you know of Carl Paoli still works with Strike?
Had to look him up, lol. I think he is, he's wearing STR/KE shoes in some of his latest IG content!
@@thatfitfriend I thought he might have been a founder or owner - he’s one of my absolute fave movement specialists but he’s moved away from that in recent years
If flat feet then which one?
How much arch support to do you want?
You mentioned that you use the EZ Haze Trainers pretty regularly. How have they held up with rope climbs? I have used some Inov-8s for years that held up great to lots of wear and tear but want something with a wide toe box. Looking a the Haze trainer but do not want to sacrifice on durability, especially with cost being higher overall. Your thoughts?
They're okay and they've held up well for the volume in which I do climbs. I don't do rope climbs every training block; when I do, I'll hit them 1-2x a week.
In the context of comparing them to Inov-8, I would take something like the G 300 over the Haze for long-term durability. I would say the Haze is most similar to the 235 V3 and 260 V2 in regard to climbing performance/durability.
Does that answer your question? Let me know if you have any follow-ups!
@@thatfitfriend That does help. I have purchased a pair of the 270s but I read some reviews that made it seems as though the shoe was geared towards new athletes. I am in year 5 or 6 of doing CrossFit so not sure I need a shoe geared toward someone new (although what those differences would be I am struggling to determine). Do you have any thoughts on the Haze vs the 270? I like the 8mm drop on the 270 as my prior shoe (old generation Inov-8) also had that. The 4mm drop does give me hesitation but the wider toe box for my wider foot is intriguing.
Durability is the biggest decider though and I currently don't know anyone personally that has a pair of the Haze Trainers. I welcome your thoughts on all the above.
@@woodyparramore5091 which 270 model?
@@thatfitfriend The F-Lite 270.
@@woodyparramore5091 imo, if you like how the 270 fits/feels I’d stick with that model and let it run its course! Once that shoe has broken down, then the Haze would be a good option to explore.
do you know if either shoe is non-marketing, or suitable for the occasional game of tennis? thank you anyone who has experience!
Both are! The Haze can be meh for that context though due to it having a finer tread. The RAD are pretty great, but be warned - I ripped the upper on both my Haze/RAD going for digs playing pickleball!
@@thatfitfriend thank you! sounds like they can do in a pinch
@@deltasecho12 exactly how I see and use them, too (for pickle!)
Don’t bother with Haze. The company has the worst customer service I’ve ever seen. Bush-league at best.
Yeah, that’s usually the main knock against them. I often recommend trying them worst through The Wod Life or other third party sellers because it’s easier to return em. Sorry your experience stunk, brother