Top 3 Shoes for Hyrox: What the Elite 15 Are Wearing

When it comes to Hyrox, every detail counts—especially your footwear. With a race format that blends 8 kilometers of running with 8 strength and functional fitness stations, the ideal shoe needs to be light, responsive, and capable of handling rapid transitions. While some athletes lean toward cross-training shoes, the top performers in the Hyrox Elite 15 division overwhelmingly favor super shoes built for speed and efficiency.

1. Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3

The Puma Deviate Elite 3 is one of the most worn shoes among Hyrox pros. It combines a feather-light upper with a responsive nitrogen-infused foam and carbon plate, offering excellent propulsion for all 8 running intervals. The grip is surprisingly strong for a road racing shoe, making it effective across sled stations and burpee broad jumps as well. The Deviate Elite 3 strikes a perfect balance between speed and control—critical in a race where seconds matter.

Best for: Speed-dominant athletes who want a fast, light shoe without sacrificing stability on functional stations.

Why the pros love it: Efficient turnover, low weight, and versatility on turf and indoor surfaces.

2. Saucony Endorphin Pro 4

The Endorphin Pro 4 is another favorite among the Hyrox elite. Known for its PWRRUN HG foam and full-length carbon plate, this shoe delivers a smooth, snappy ride through the running portions while still being durable enough to handle lunges and sled pulls. The upgraded upper offers better lockdown and breathability, which helps during long efforts in high-heat race environments.

Best for: Athletes who want a soft-yet-responsive ride and fast transitions between run-work stations.

Why the pros love it: Light, aggressive cushioning and reliable traction across a variety of surfaces.

3. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2

One of the fastest-rising shoes in the Hyrox scene, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 features a unique rocker design and carbon-infused plate that allows for extremely efficient midfoot running. Its energetic foam makes it one of the most propulsive shoes available, and the outsole grip gives it an edge during sled work and transitions. It’s slightly stiffer than the others, but for efficient runners, it’s a serious weapon.

Best for: Midfoot or forefoot runners looking for maximum return on the running intervals.

Why the pros love it: Exceptional speed output, rocker geometry, and race-ready responsiveness.

What is the right shoe for you?

While Hyrox is a hybrid race, the Elite 15 are choosing super shoes—not cross-trainers. With nearly 60% of the race spent running, choosing a high-performance road racer with solid grip and durability is proving to be the gold standard. The Puma Deviate Elite 3, Saucony Endorphin Pro 4, and Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 dominate the elite field because they help athletes run faster, recover quicker between stations, and stay light on their feet throughout the event.

If you’re serious about leveling up your Hyrox performance, your shoe choice is one of the simplest but most impactful upgrades you can make. Train in them, race in them, and let your feet do the flying.