10 Best Pieces of CrossFit Gear and Apparel Reviewed & Compared

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Bear KompleX Hand Grips
Test Winner: Bear KompleX Hand Grips
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CrossFit, although rewarding, can be demanding. Making sure you are equipped with the best CrossFit gear assures you’re getting the most from your workout. Whether running or sporting, having the best gear works. From the process to recovery, the 10 Best Pieces of CrossFit Gear will enlighten you on what works for most CrossFit enthusiasts. If you are serious about your WOD, we suggest getting serious about your gear and accessories. Activewear is mission-specific and usually tested thoroughly to help prevent injury and add comfort.

Scroll through and get fit with what works for your style. We research hours, making sure our Criteria is up to date with what people are looking for in the best of any product. We also offer answers in our FAQs sections, so you can make a more educated decision when choosing what you need.

Standout Picks

As a CrossFit athlete, the right pair of socks is absolutely essential, without them you honestly won’t be able to get through your workouts. The Rockay Razer socks are one of the best additions you can add to your CrossFit gear because of their amazing comfort, durability, and breathability. If you want a pair of socks you can count on for many WODs to come, make sure to check these out!
Amazon Link
Those of you with a need for speed—who also want to boost your performance any way you can—will love the Rockay 20four 7 socks. Not only are these socks extremely versatile when it comes to what you can do for them, but they definitely are among the best of the best.
Amazon Link
Created for runners, but equally as good for CrossFit, ROCKAY's Accelerate has many attributes which cross the field for sure. Although CrossFitters aren't typically focusing on distance running, in many cases, There are some similar issues that arise with wearing a pair of bad socks.
Amazon Link
Are you looking to gear up for CrossFit before your next training? Well, there is one product that you should try that can significantly help.. We are talking about the Rockay Blaze Compression Leg Sleeves. This company carefully designed this product with the necessary technology to keep you moving longer and recover quicker.
Amazon Link
Hand grips are worth considering early on in your CrossFit career if you experiencing tears in your palms from pull-ups and bar lifts. They are not for everyone but CrossFitters who want a little extra grip on the bar or are not interested in developing hard calluses may want to try them out. These Bear Komplex grips are a favorite among CrossFitters. They are available in 2 or 3-hole styles to provide more or less cover for the palms and they have some comfortable wrist support included.
Amazon Link
Although all boxes supply jump ropes, most avid CrossFitters like to bring their own. Having a personal rope is relatively cheap, adds little weight to your bag and can decrease distractions as you jump. No more fighting over ropes or adjusting to new weights or grips. A personal rope allows you to stay focused on your skipping so you can master those double unders.
Amazon Link
A good water bottle is absolutely essential for any exercise and the Hydroflask is worth the investment. Users are shocked to find how effectively these double wall, vacuum-insulated bottles maintain the temperature of whatever liquid you place in it. The leak-proof lid will leave you worry-free when tossing it in your gym bag. Additionally, the sleek but tough design looks great and provides the perfect canvas for stickers to rep your box.
Amazon Link
Finally! A cutting-edge athletic tape can withstand the harshest demands of athletes looking to take their performance to the next level. It doesn't hurt that it is made in the USA!
Amazon Link
Knee sleeves are frequently recommended by more mature CrossFitters but are helpful for anyone with worries about their knees. The sleeves provide a bit of compression and support during heavy lifting and squats. They also keep heat in the joint to reduce warm-up time and make squats a bit more comfortable.
Amazon Link
Harbinger is a well-known name in the weightlifting belt world. They offer a large line of heavy-duty gear that works in all sorts of heavy lifting scenarios. Their 23330 weightlifting belt is one of the more affordable options they have that works perfectly for fast reps and quick-changing that comes with Crossfit. It holds up and is perfect for those on a budget.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Use

CrossFit has become popular for many reasons and one is that it can be adapted and picked up by just about anyone. And the gear and accessories and supplies used with CrossFit are fairly easy to use and can be used by just about anyone as well. If you are looking for supplies and gear you want it to be something you will us on regular basis and that you will enjoy using. That is why we here at RunnerClick focused on use and applications for the gear that we featured here on our top ten list.

There are all kinds of items specific to CrossFit that you can spend your money on. When creating this list we considered how useful these items are to improving your workout. We reviewed CrossFit forums and blogs to bring you the most consistently recommended gear. Items that will make a difference in your performance and comfort immediately top our list while items of convenience, or those reserved for more advanced athletes, fill out the bottom.

Features

All CrossFit gear and supplies have a range of features that make them desirable among athletes. It is often these features that set CrossFit apart for the other products that are available on the market today. We wanted to make sure to include products and supplies that have the feature most of our readers and reviewers want and need. We focused on including products that have these features and that are applicable to a wider range of workout types and styles and methods to help everyone find the gear that is right for their wants and needs.

For each gear category, we sought out the brand and model most especially suited to CrossFit. Key features that fit with the needs of a CrossFit athlete and set the product above the rest of the field were weighed in when forming this list.

Durability

No one wants to buy gear that does not hold up well to normal wear and tear and it is never fun to spend money on something that does not last like you want and need it to. We realize how important this is to you so we made sure we focused heavily on durability while choosing the products to feature on our guide here. Durable products will late and are made to hold up to the intensity of workouts and to endure through the long term. RunnerClick has one primary goal with our guides- to help you fin thee products that are just right for you and that are durable and a good fit for you!

Investing in items that will withstand the tests of time is important for any purchase. CrossFit accessories and gear, in particular, need to be tough enough to take a beating. You can expect most of your gear to be tossed, dropped, kicked and saturated with sweat. We looked for items that will hold up to the harsh conditions at any CrossFit box.

Style

CrossFit gear may not be the most flashy and stylish of gear out there but it is made to do its job and look good at the same time. The products featured on our guide come in several styles and designs so you can find something that works just right for you and that fits your unique taste and style and that fit your workout needs. We want you to get the products you need and want without having to sacrifice price and style in the process.

Appearance is not the highest priority for CrossFit athletes at the gym. However, it is always nice to have the gear you love and feel good about using. Style may not be the most important factor to be considered but it can still come into play and there is no point in buying something you do not like and will not use!

10 Best Pieces of Crossfit Gear

1. Razer Trail

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Rockay Razer
Rockay Razer
Rockay Razer
Rockay Razer
Amazon Link

As a CrossFit athlete, the right pair of socks is absolutely essential, without them you honestly won’t be able to get through your workouts. The Rockay Razer socks are one of the best additions you can add to your CrossFit gear because of their amazing comfort, durability, and breathability. If you want a pair of socks you can count on for many WODs to come, make sure to check these out!

Read more

Use

These socks are incredibly versatile—so they are a perfect option for the well-round CrossFit runner that loves to participate in other athletic activities. Not only are these a great option for your daily WODs, but you can also use these to hit your favorite trails, run, and so much more.

Features

The Rockay brand is known for its use of recycled material when it comes to the materials used to make their socks. These socks, specifically, are made of regenerated nylon, recycled elastane, and recycled Polyamide. They also feature some compression for those of you looking for something that will aid in recovery and improve your blood flow while you workout.

Durability

Perhaps the best feature offered by these socks is their ability to keep odor at bay. While they are machine washable, this little feature ensures they stay nice and fresh longer—so you don’t have to wash them nearly as often. If you decide to get these from Rockay directly, you will be able to take advantage of their lifetime guarantee if anything were to happen.

Style

With a crew cut length, these are definitely longer—so if you are a no-show sock person only, you may want to keep scrolling. That being said, these socks are incredibly sleek and stylish, so you don’t have to worry about looking silly in these!

Amazon Link

2. 20four 7

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Rockay 20four 7
Rockay 20four 7
Rockay 20four 7
Amazon Link

Those of you with a need for speed—who also want to boost your performance any way you can—will love the Rockay 20four 7 socks. Not only are these socks extremely versatile when it comes to what you can do for them, but they definitely are among the best of the best.

Read more

Use

Here we have another versatile and flexible pair of fitness socks that you can use for more than just WODs. They offer a secure and comfortable fit that also allows for a full range of motion with each and every stride—so you can focus on every step you take forward.

Features

In terms, of features, these socks have quite a bit to offer. First of all, the feature cushioning, which allows for more comfort and support in the areas you need it most—and if you have any specific foot issues then you know how important it is to address them. Secondly, they are incredibly comfortable, you can literally wear them all day without having to worry about any excessive sweating or discomfort.

Durability

With incredible durability thanks to their high-quality materials, the use of high-density knitting further boosts their overall durability, ensuring they will last you the long haul, as long as you take care of them appropriately.

Style

Those of you who hate longer socks will love the no-show design of these socks. Their heel extends high enough so it can prevent hotspots and blister but low enough to still be a no-show sock. If you want a sleek and stylish sock, take a close look at these because they truly are amazing.

Amazon Link

3. ROCKAY Accelerate

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ROCKAY Accelerate
Amazon Link

Created for runners, but equally as good for CrossFit, ROCKAY's Accelerate has many attributes which cross the field for sure. Although CrossFitters aren't typically focusing on distance running, in many cases, There are some similar issues that arise with wearing a pair of bad socks.

Read more

Let's look at friction and rub points with some shoes. These socks are ideal for running because they cover all of the right spots, as far as the heel and ankle go. The rear tab will give you a barrier between the shoe and that blister prone portion of the heel.

When it comes to support, The sock is designed with appropriate amounts of compression throughout to assist proper circulation. Because who wants to deal with a numb foot.

Now getting down to breathability. These are constructed with awesome ventilation, allowing decent airflow to the feet. This not only helps with the need to release moisture from sweat, but also helps prevent the classic problem of stinky feet.

Amazon Link

4. Rockay Blaze

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Rockay Blaze
Amazon Link

Are you looking to gear up for CrossFit before your next training? Well, there is one product that you should try that can significantly help.. We are talking about the Rockay Blaze Compression Leg Sleeves. This company carefully designed this product with the necessary technology to keep you moving longer and recover quicker.

Read more

Helps with Various Injuries

It has been scientifically proven that compression is incredibly beneficial at preventing and healing various injuries. For example, through wearing this product, it can help with aches, shin splints, and even Varicose veins. Additionally, this gear can help reduce fatigue and significantly help with recovery times.

100% Lifetime Guarantee

When we evaluated different products, we always look to see how manufacturers assure newer consumers. This brand does a great job by building trust through offering a lifetime warranty. So, if you experience anything wrong with your new piece of gear, the customer service team is ready and willing to help.

Cost and Value

The one thing worth noting with this specific piece of gear is that it’s a bit more expensive than other products. However, we can’t express how important it is to really consider the value that the product offers, rather than judging it’s price tag. This product comes with a lifetime guarantee and some of the most innovative technology, including Stays Fresh from Polyigene.

Amazon Link

5. Bear KompleX Hand Grips

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Bear KompleX Hand Grips
Amazon Link

Hand grips are worth considering early on in your CrossFit career if you experiencing tears in your palms from pull-ups and bar lifts. They are not for everyone but CrossFitters who want a little extra grip on the bar or are not interested in developing hard calluses may want to try them out. These Bear Komplex grips are a favorite among CrossFitters. They are available in 2 or 3-hole styles to provide more or less cover for the palms and they have some comfortable wrist support included.

Read more

Utility

You can pretty much guarantee that you will need to grip a bar at some point through any WOD. Hand grips are great for protecting hands and enhancing grip during those challenging bar-based activities such as pull-ups, muscle ups, kettlebell swings, power lifts and many others.

Features

The Bear KompleX grips are our favorite for CrossFit specifically. The quality leather helps you maintain grip on the bar and the option between 2 and 3-hole sizes helps you find the proper coverage for your callus-prone areas. The built-in wrist strap does not provide much support but users find it far more comfortable and durable than cheap gymnastics grips.

Durability

The quality of these wrist straps is easy to see in the thick leather and padded wristband. Seasoned athletes seem to prefer these grips over most others for their improved durability.

Style

These small grips do not stand out too much but they do offer a few colors for the wrist straps.

Value

The price will likely seem steep for these small pieces of leather but buyers seem to find the performance and comfort easily blow away the competition.

Amazon Link

6. WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

Where to buy
Amazon Link
WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope
Amazon Link

Although all boxes supply jump ropes, most avid CrossFitters like to bring their own. Having a personal rope is relatively cheap, adds little weight to your bag and can decrease distractions as you jump. No more fighting over ropes or adjusting to new weights or grips. A personal rope allows you to stay focused on your skipping so you can master those double unders.

Read more

Utility

Skipping rope may not be required everyday but it is a regular feature of many CrossFit workouts and warm-ups. It is also a nice piece of equipment for a great cardio workout at home on days you can’t make it to the box. Having a personal rope is highly recommended because it will allow you to find the appropriate length and will provide some consistency while you master the challenging movements.

Features

The WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope is a great option for CrossFit. It is very lightweight, easy to adjust and spins very quickly. The patented ball bearings in the handle allow for a seamless turn of the rope. Users find the consistent spin and quick movement is very helpful when timing double unders.

Durability

This rope holds up well through many workouts. It also comes with an extra cable to extend its lifetime.

Style

This WOD Nation rope is available in 8 colors which makes it easy to choose a unique one to help you keep yours separate from others at the gym.

Value

Patented ball bearings and lightweight but durable design make this jump rope a bit pricier than your standard bargain rope.

Amazon Link

7. Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle
Amazon Link

A good water bottle is absolutely essential for any exercise and the Hydroflask is worth the investment. Users are shocked to find how effectively these double wall, vacuum-insulated bottles maintain the temperature of whatever liquid you place in it. The leak-proof lid will leave you worry-free when tossing it in your gym bag. Additionally, the sleek but tough design looks great and provides the perfect canvas for stickers to rep your box.

Read more

Utility

Staying hydrated is essential for keeping up with any WOD. The Hydro Flask water bottle is perfect for keeping your water cold throughout your workout and in any part of your everyday life. If you are hitting up the early morning class before work, Hydro Flasks will also keep your coffee hot and ready to drink once the WOD is over.

Features

The Hydro Flask has double-wall, vacuum insulated TempShield technology to keep liquids hot up to 6 hours and cold up to 24 hours. The proprietary powder coat makes the bottle slip-free so you won’t lose your grip no matter how much you sweat. The lid is leak proof and the narrow width fits most cup holders and bicycle racks.

Durability

This bottle is made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel and non-toxic BPA-free plastic. The bottle may acquire some dings when dropped but it is very difficult to create a hole or crack.

Style

The Hydro Flask has a solid, sleek appearance and is available in 16 bright colors.

Value

The price may seem steep for a water bottle but buyers find the TempShield, signature powder grip and reliable durability make the Hydro Flask a worthy investment.

Amazon Link

8. Goat Tape Scary Sticky Premium Athletic Tape

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Goat Tape Scary Sticky Premium Athletic Tape
Amazon Link

Finally! A cutting-edge athletic tape can withstand the harshest demands of athletes looking to take their performance to the next level. It doesn't hurt that it is made in the USA!

Read more

Utility

Goat Tape is the world's first athletic tape designed specifically for CrossFitters. This stuff is some of the toughest stuff on the market and is a much-needed alternative to the athletic tapes, lacking adhesive quality.

Features

Goat Tape is latex-free and 100% cotton and is optimal for wrist, thumb and finger taping. It contains a custom adhesive for optimal sticking quality. This product comes in rolls 10 yards long and 1.5 inches wide.

Durability

Goat Tape stays strongly bonded and secure through friction, tension, heat, and sweat, yet it rips with ease thanks to its serrated edges. Its Aggressive adhesive can withstand the toughest WODs / weightlifting routines

Style

This tape is available in a variety of colors and styles so that you can rock your WOD in style!

Value

Given the superior adhesive quality of this innovative athletic tape, it's a bargain at less than a dollar per yard of material.

Amazon Link

9. Rehband Rx Knee Support

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Rehband Rx Knee Support
Amazon Link

Knee sleeves are frequently recommended by more mature CrossFitters but are helpful for anyone with worries about their knees. The sleeves provide a bit of compression and support during heavy lifting and squats. They also keep heat in the joint to reduce warm-up time and make squats a bit more comfortable.

Read more

Utility

Knee sleeves provide light compression support for your knees while still allowing good range of motion for any leg-driven activity. It keeps the knee joint warm to alleviate some of the creaking and pain you may feel at the beginning of your workout. Adding some knee support does not replace PT exercises when recovering from an injury but it can help you feel more secure and comfortable as you rehabilitate.

Features

Rehband’s Rx Knee Sleeves are provide comfortable compression and a contoured anatomical fit. The 5mm thick neoprene material finds a good balance between support and flexibility to keep you moving through the WOD.

Durability

These knee sleeves are fairly durable for exercise but some users do note some fraying around the seams with regular washing. Reviewers also note they do absorb sweat and retain odor easily.

Style

These sleeves are available in 3 sizes and black, burgundy or navy.

Value

The price is midrange when compared to other knee sleeves. They are sold individually so it will cost a bit more if you are seeking a pair.

Amazon Link

10. Harbinger 23330 Weightlifting Belt

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Harbinger 23330 Weightlifting Belt
Harbinger 23330 Weightlifting Belt
Harbinger 23330 Weightlifting Belt
Harbinger 23330 Weightlifting Belt
Amazon Link

Harbinger is a well-known name in the weightlifting belt world. They offer a large line of heavy-duty gear that works in all sorts of heavy lifting scenarios. Their 23330 weightlifting belt is one of the more affordable options they have that works perfectly for fast reps and quick-changing that comes with Crossfit. It holds up and is perfect for those on a budget.

Read more

Use

The 23330 Weightlifting Belt by Harbinger supports the core when doing weightlifting reps and other heavy lifting associated with the CrossFit challenge. This belt supports and has a roller buckle for easy tensioning as you move.

Features

Made with closed-cell foam, you get lower back support and muscle warmth with high comfort. The fabric is also abrasion resistant and doesn't fray which can cause irritation in sinched areas. It also comes in different sizes and runs 5-inch in width and 3-inch overlay support strap for added abdominal support.

Durability

As we mentioned, it is abrasion resistant, which prevents pilling and fraying along the seams. This belt is flexible by design and made of durable nylon which assists in keeping the muscles warm. Harbinger also backs their belt with a money-back guarantee so you can rest easy when getting in that WOD.

Value

We have to say this is a steal. When it comes to the best pieces of CrossFit gear, we like to think of them as an investment and CrossFit tends to be a lifestyle choice versus just a gym activity. Finding affordable gear that works is always great and this is what the Harbinger 23330 is serving, value.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Borah, Clayton, What Gear do I need for CrossFit?, Web Article
  2. Every Last Rep, What Should Be in Your Gear Bag?,
  3. Maureen Quirk, GEAR UP FOR THE 2019 CROSSFIT OPEN, Brand Site
  4. Scott Laidler, How to create the perfect home gym , Editorial

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