Optional Gear That Can Elevate Your Training

When it comes to training, the basics will always matter most. Consistency, effort, and good movement patterns are what drive real progress. That said, there are a few optional accessories that can make your workouts more comfortable, more efficient, and in some cases, help you push a little further. None of these are required. Think of them as tools you can use when they make sense for you.

CrossFit-Friendly Shoes

Your shoes matter more than most people realize. A good training shoe should support a wide range of movements without getting in your way.

Look for shoes with a relatively flat and stable sole. This helps you stay grounded during lifts like squats, deadlifts, and cleans. A secure fit is also important so your foot does not slide around during dynamic movements like box jumps or lateral work.

You also want some level of durability and grip, especially for movements like rope climbs or sled pushes. Many training-specific shoes are built with reinforced sides and tougher outsoles for exactly this reason.

What to avoid: Highly cushioned running shoes. While they are great for longer runs, the soft, compressible sole can make lifting feel unstable and inefficient. You lose the ability to transfer force effectively into the ground, which can impact both performance and safety.

If you are doing a workout that includes a lot of running, there can be some trade-off. In most cases, a good cross-training shoe will strike the right balance across everything we do in class.

Best for: Everyday training, mixed-modal workouts, athletes looking for versatility

Grips

Grips are one of the most popular accessories for a reason. They help protect your hands and improve your hold on the bar during movements like pull-ups, toes-to-bar, and bar muscle-ups.

If you have ever had your hands tear mid-workout, you know how quickly that can derail your training. Grips can reduce friction and allow you to maintain bigger sets without worrying about your hands giving out.

Best for: High-volume gymnastics, athletes prone to hand tears

Wrist Wraps

Wrist wraps provide added support during pressing and front rack positions. They help stabilize the wrist joint, especially when loads get heavier or when mobility is limited.

If you feel discomfort in movements like front squats, push presses, or handstands, wrist wraps can help you stay in a stronger and more comfortable position.

Best for: Front rack work, overhead lifting, athletes with wrist discomfort

Thumb Protectors

Hook grip is incredibly effective for barbell cycling, but it can be tough on your thumbs. Thumb protectors or tape can reduce irritation and help you maintain your grip without pain becoming the limiting factor.

Best for: Olympic lifting, high-rep barbell cycling

Weight Belt

A weight belt can provide additional support for your core during heavy lifts. It does not replace proper bracing, but it can enhance it when used correctly.

Belts are most useful when you are working near your max effort in movements like squats, deadlifts, and cleans. For lighter or moderate loads, it is usually better to train without one to continue building natural core strength.

Best for: Heavy lifts, max effort days

Weighted Vest

A weighted vest adds external load to bodyweight movements like pull-ups, push-ups, squats, and even running.

It is a great tool for increasing intensity without needing to change the structure of a workout. That said, it should be used thoughtfully. Adding load too soon or too often can impact movement quality.

Best for: Advanced athletes looking to increase intensity

Knee Sleeves

Knee sleeves provide warmth, compression, and a small amount of support around the knee joint. Many athletes find that they help reduce stiffness and improve comfort during squatting movements.

They can also offer a bit of confidence when lifting heavier loads, especially if your knees tend to feel achy under volume.

Best for: Squats, lunges, higher volume lower body work

Lifters or Shoe Inserts for Lifting

Both lifter shoes and shoe inserts can improve your positioning and stability, especially in squats and Olympic lifts.

Lifter shoes have a raised heel and a firm, stable base. The elevated heel helps you achieve better depth and a more upright torso, which can be especially helpful if ankle mobility is limited. They are designed specifically for lifting and can make a noticeable difference in mechanics and consistency under load.

Shoe inserts, on the other hand, can be added to your current training shoes to provide additional arch support or improve alignment. If you have flat feet or specific support needs, inserts can help you create a more stable foundation without investing in a separate pair of shoes.

Both options can be effective. Lifters tend to offer the most benefit for dedicated strength work, while inserts are a more flexible option for general training.

Best for: Squats, Olympic lifts, athletes needing improved stability or positioning

Liquid Chalk

Liquid chalk is a convenient and less messy alternative to traditional chalk. It improves grip by reducing moisture on your hands and is especially useful in humid conditions or gyms where loose chalk is limited.

It is quick to apply, portable, and can make a noticeable difference in pulling movements and barbell work.

Best for: Grip support in any workout, especially in humid environments

What Matters Most

Accessories should support your training, not replace the fundamentals. If something helps you move better, feel more confident, or stay consistent, it can be worth incorporating.

If you are unsure where to start, keep it simple. Grips and wrist wraps tend to offer the most immediate benefit for most athletes. From there, you can layer in other tools based on your specific needs and goals.

As always, if you have questions about what might be helpful for you, just ask a coach. We are here to help you train smarter and get the most out of every session.