Christian McCaffrey and while on earth create a signature shoe for explosive training

The CMC combines a supportive midfoot plate with multidirectional grip for dynamic workouts.

while on earth has launched The CMC, its first signature shoe created with co-founder and San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey.

The trainer is built for explosive workouts, combining stability for lateral movement and heavy reps with the flexibility needed for more dynamic exercises.

About The CMC

At the center of the shoe is a TPU midfoot plate that helps reduce twisting as the foot changes direction. An external heel counter holds the heel in place, creating a more stable base for agility work, strength training, and explosive movements.

That support continues underfoot, where a multidirectional rubber outsole provides traction for moving forward, backward, and side to side. Grooves through the forefoot allow the shoe to bend naturally, keeping the added stability from making it too rigid.

A nylon upper and rubberized toe cap add protection in areas that tend to take the most wear. For comfort, the shoe has a foam sockliner and an angled heel tab that eases pressure around the Achilles. It also has a 10mm heel-to-toe drop.

The CMC is built for explosive power and lateral stability, but versatile enough for everyday training.

The CMC follows the recent launch of the Rhythm Runner, while on earth’s first dedicated running shoe. That model covers road miles and hybrid workouts, while the new trainer adds a more stable option for strength, agility, and explosive training. Together, the two give the brand a broader footwear lineup for people whose workouts don’t fit into one category.

McCaffrey joined while on earth as a co-founder last year and says he tested The CMC for countless hours during its development. His training needs helped shape the shoe, offering an early look at how the brand could continue to combine elite athletes’ input with features that make sense for people who take everyday training seriously.

“I knew I wanted to create a shoe that could keep up with how I train,” he said. “The CMC offers the stability and control I need to train explosively, without sacrificing comfort and versatility beyond the gym.”

Where to get it

The CMC is available now for $160 at whileonearth.com. It comes in men’s and women’s sizes and four colorways, including White/White, Dune/Shore, Wheat/Midnight, and Wheat/Syrah.