CrossFit gear: What you really need to get started
Many people think they need a lot of equipment before they can begin training, but the truth is simple: to start CrossFit, you don’t need much gear at all. At CrossFit Kreis 9, the only thing you need on day one is a pair of sports clothes you feel comfortable moving in. We provide everything else you need for your first session.
As you continue training, you may want to add a few items that make your workouts more enjoyable and personalized. The good news is that CrossFit gear doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. There are just a few essentials that can help you feel more confident, perform better, and recover faster.
Below, we’ll walk you through the three most useful pieces of CrossFit gear for anyone beginning their fitness journey.
1. Shoes
Let’s start from the ground up. Your shoes are the foundation of your movement. The best news is that you don’t need to buy anything new to get started. For your first visit, simply bring a clean pair of sport shoes from your closet. That’s all you need.
Over time, as you train more consistently, your coach can help you choose the right pair based on your needs. CrossFit combines lifting, running, jumping, and gymnastics, which means your shoes must handle many different movement types. You’re looking for a balance between stability and versatility.
When choosing CrossFit gear for your feet, consider these features:
- A flat, wide heel gives you balance and control during lifts.
- A grippy sole helps you move confidently and change direction quickly.
- A lightweight, flexible design supports dynamic, athletic movement.
CrossFit-specific shoes from brands like Nike, Reebok, or NOBULL are built exactly for this mix, but you don’t need to buy them immediately. Focus on starting your training; the right gear can follow later.
2. Jump rope
Jump rope work is a core part of CrossFit. From single-unders to double-unders, skipping builds coordination, endurance, and rhythm. Every member at CrossFit Kreis 9 has access to speed ropes at the gym, but owning your own jump rope can make a big difference over time.
Here’s why:
- Your rope is custom-sized to your height and preferences.
- You’ll get consistent feedback by using the same rope every time.
- You can take care of it properly and replace the cable before it wears out.
A personal rope is a small investment that can help you progress faster. It’s one of the simplest pieces of CrossFit gear that makes your training smoother and more effective.
3. Gymnastic grips
There’s one thing you can’t train: your skin.
Pull-ups, toes-to-bar, and bar muscle-ups are common movements in CrossFit, and while your strength improves, your hands take a lot of friction. Ripped skin can slow down your progress — and it’s uncomfortable. That’s why a pair of gymnastic grips becomes essential after your first few weeks.
Grips protect your hands, give you a stronger hold on the bar, and reduce fatigue in your forearms. There are many styles, from leather to synthetic, with or without finger holes. The best pair is the one you like to wear. Try a few options and find what feels best for you.
Good grips are one of the smartest pieces of CrossFit gear you can buy — they keep you training consistently without unnecessary interruptions.
Other items to consider
Once you’ve built some experience, you might explore additional gear like weightlifting shoes, wrist wraps, knee sleeves, or lifting belts. These are optional and depend on your goals. For example, if you enjoy Olympic lifting, dedicated shoes can help you move more efficiently. If you’re working on handstand push-ups, wrist wraps might offer extra support.
But remember: none of these are required to begin. The most important thing is to show up, learn proper technique, and stay consistent. Your coaches at CrossFit Kreis 9 will guide you step by step and help you choose gear only when it truly benefits your training.
Final thoughts
Starting CrossFit is not about having the perfect gear — it’s about taking the first step. At CrossFit Kreis 9, we’ll provide everything you need to get going. As you progress, you can decide which CrossFit gear is worth adding to your routine.
You don’t need to guess. Our coaching team is here to help you make the right choices based on your goals, and our partner store Gear 9 offers carefully selected products tested by our own athletes.
✅ Start simple
✅ Stay consistent
✅ Ask for guidance
Because the most powerful piece of equipment is your commitment to show up.
