So you’re ready to start your CrossFit journey and you’ve quickly realized that your old running shoes or Basketball sneakers don’t quite cut it, not to mention those heavy sweat pants and tight T-shirt.
CrossFit WOD’s are all about speed, power, and maximum effort, so you need kit that doesn’t slow you down.
From rope climbs and ball slams to power cleans and Overhead squats, it’s essential that you can move freely and perform at your best.
Read on as we tell you the essential pieces of kit you need to power through any CrossFit WOD, if you really are serious CrossFitter.
Footwear
Traditional trainers and running shoes are often built with a specific purpose in mind, such as running, playing basketball, playing tennis, or something as specific as weightlifting.
They are meant to support your feet in specific ways and work best when used for that activity, which means you could be in trouble if you try to use them for CrossFit.
CrossFit involves a lot of lateral movement, jumping, running and skipping, not to mention lifting heavy weights and performing a lot of aerobic activities.
The very nature of CrossFit means the athlete should be ready for anything and the shoes are no different.
CrossFit shoes should be flat-footed with a padded heel and strong secure laces.
A good CrossFit shoe will support you while you run, lift weights or complete the dreaded double unders.
As the official sponsor of CrossFit, Reebok is the only company allowed to officially brand their shoes as ‘made for CrossFit’, and as a result, the Reebok Nano 8s is a great shoe that we would recommend.
However, Nike, are also in the CrossFit shoe game, they just can’t call it that.
The Nike Metcons are another great shoe that should provide you with everything you need to battle any CrossFit WOD.
Socks
Often overlooked, socks should be an essential part of every CrossFitters kit bag, traditional cotton socks will soon fail you and your feet deserve to be taken care of, just like the rest of your body.
Plus, nobody wants to have smelly feet or shoes.
Your CrossFit socks should be breathable, made from high wicking materials, which help to keep your feet dry and comfortable whilst not absorbing sweat and they should also provide a secure fit, eliminating any rubbing and avoiding potential blisters or bunions.
High knee socks can also be a good idea as they provide a little extra protection for your shins.
Our suggestion, for a high-quality pair of CrossFit socks, try the under armour over the calf team socks
Tank & Tees
The running joke about CrossFit is why do you do it naked?
Seriously, all the guys are always shirtless and many of the girls just wear a sports bra.
Okay, this doesn’t apply to everyone and you certainly don’t have to be naked, but a lot of athletes do take their shirts off and there are two reasons for this.
Back to number 1.
You will sweat, a lot, and much like your shoes, you will need a dri-fit, quick dry shirt that won’t absorb moisture.
Whether it’s a tank or a Tee it should be lightweight and allow you to move freely without feeling constricted.
It also shouldn’t be too big or baggy, as it could get caught when trying to perform certain moves.
Some people prefer sleeveless options whilst others opt for a little more material.
Whatever you decide most big sports brands offer a shirt that will hold up well at CrossFit and as the official sponsor, Reebok has plenty of options too. Our advice here is to test it out and see for yourself.
Shorts or Compression Tights
The last thing you’ll want when attacking your CrossFit WOD is to worry about your clothing riding up.
Just like with the shirt, you don’t want to feel constricted or uncomfortable in any movements and you will want to feel as though you can move freely, in any direction, whilst still being supported.
Whether you opt for athletic shorts or compression shorts or pants, you will want something that offers functional support.
Shorts or pants, is down to personal choice, as is the color.
But the main things to consider, in addition to the above, are their functionality and ability to cope with the varied nature of CrossFit.
Some of our recommendations are: Reebok Womens KNW shorts ; Reebok Womens KNW shorts
Sports Bra
A good sports bra will provide you ladies with the support you need whilst running, jumping and lifting heavy weights.
The major sportswear giants are embracing the need for a high-quality product and there’s a range of innovative high-quality sports bras that look great and do a fantastic job.
Like much of your other clothing, your CrossFit sports bra should offer
The Chestee is one of the best sports bras around, but under armour also do some great sports bras.
Conclusion
CrossFit is high intensity and high impact, you will sweat, a lot, and your body will take a beating, but your clothes will too.
Many workouts are done for time, where you try to finish as fast as you can, and almost every WOD involves different exercises and different activities where you move from station to station.
You need kit that supports your body and allows you to move, care-free.
Your clothes should be breathable, with all that sweat, you don’t want to absorb the moisture, and it should be fit for function, allowing you to perform to the best of your abilities.
You’ve started CrossFit for a reason and undoubtedly you want to do your best, selecting the right kit will help you to do just that.
The temptation could be to go with cheaper, lower quality options that may not be a good fit for CrossFit.
Our advice is to avoid the temptation and purchase kit that will allow you to truly flourish at CrossFit.
Not only will you reduce your risk of injury and increase your performance, but you’ve got one less thing to worry about as you give each workout your all.
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