Nike Metcon SF review

Who should buy the Nike Metcon SF

Ready to take on wet conditions, Metcon SF has special designs and features that have an anti-mud-clogging ability, speed lacing retention system, and excellent water draining.
It is a solid option if:

• Your workout routine goes far beyond a nice and warm gym environment into the wet and muddy trails.
• Your activities make you exposed to accidental toe bumps and you are looking for a shoe that offers a sufficient forefoot shield. 

The Nike Metcon SF's sole

The bottom of the shoe is lined with a durable rubber material. It features aggressive lugs in the forefoot and heel sections, making the trainer reminiscent of a soccer cleat. They bite deep into the mud, soil, sand, and other outdoor surfaces, keeping the wearer sure-footed throughout the exercise. 

Anti-clogging

When things get muddy, the last thing you want is to have the icky-sticky substance keep you company underfoot. Preventing this from happening is Metcon SF's strategically spaced lugs that repel mud.

Drain ports

The apertures on both sides of the forefoot are not very noticeable at first glance. However, they become indispensable when the shoe gets flooded with water. This drainage system comes to work as you start moving. By stepping and pushing your toes to the ground, the water seeps through these ports, minimizing discomfort and shoe weight.

Protection from the rope

What the trainer does inherit from its Metcon siblings are the rope guards on the sides. These rubber wraps cover the part of the shoe which is most prone to abrasion during rope climbs.

Toe bumper

The rubber piece also protrudes up at the forefoot. It forms a shield that guards the toes against both planned and unexpected obstacles on the way.

Minimal cushioning

Although Metcon SF is crafted for running, it’s not the same type of running that you would do on a marathon. Traversing sandy trails and muddy swamps does not require the same type of plush cushioning as road running. In addition, a generously padded midsole would not come handy when you need to be on top of your maneuverability.

That’s why the trainer has a thin and firm drop-in midsole. It provides more instant ground feedback which helps the wearer feel in control of foot positioning. Besides, the insert doesn’t easily absorb water and dries fairly quickly when taken out.

High-top gaiter

When stepping knee-deep into a puddle or a swamp is inevitable, a shoe with a higher top comes in very handy. The upper of the Nike Metcon SF extends past the ankle and has a very close-fitting, sock-like collar. This design helps it stay close to the leg and prevents catching debris and water.    

The Nike Metcon SF's mesh

Even though the mesh is the cause of water penetration in the first place, it also works vice versa, releasing water from the foot chamber. Because it is not a dedicated water shoe, it needs mesh to keep the foot aerated during tough workouts.    

Speed lacing

In activities like obstacle racing, there is simply no time to stop and tie laces. Thus, the trainer is equipped with a bungee closure that allows fit adjustment on the go.