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Whether you’re just getting into weightlifting or you’re an old pro, weightlifting shoes are a must for providing the support necessary for both an improved and safe lifting experience. Here’s everything you need to know about what to look for in a lifting shoe, as well as our five top picks for weightlifting and powerlifting shoes you can buy now.
The Best Weightlifting Shoes:
Why Do You Need Lifting Shoes?
Sure, you could go to the gym in your standard tennis shoes (and, actually, you might want to do this, with some caveats), but taking a little extra care with picking your lifting shoes can really impact your performance.
Lifting-specific shoes can increase stability, which, in turn, makes for a safer lifting experience, helping you avoid gym injuries. Likewise, as your stability increases, you can see your form improve, too. With better form, you’ll see reduced pain and strain on certain areas of your body. Additionally, some users report that lifting and squat shoes can help achieve a deeper squat, thanks to the way the shoes are made.
So, if you’re looking to increase stability, reduce the risk of injury, improve your form and just improve your overall lifting experience, you’ll want to invest in lifting-specific shoes.
If, however, you’re not a frequent lifter, you may be able to get away with a flat-soled shoe that provides basic stability (Converse shoes are a popular pick for this, as well as a few others, which we’ll cover below).
What to Look for in Weightlifting Shoes
There are a few things you’ll want to look for when you pick a pair of lifting shoes.
A Perfect Fit
You don’t want a lifting shoe that’s going to move or shift as you squat or in the middle of your deadlift. Any shifting around is going to negatively impact your stability, so be sure to pick a weightlifting shoe that is perfectly fitted to your foot—no extra moving.
While this can be a little difficult to find if you’re shopping for weightlifting shoes online, opt for your typical shoe size while taking into consideration reviews on fit and range of motion. If an overwhelming majority of reviewers say the shoes run small or large, adjust your order accordingly. Additionally, make sure to buy your new shoes from a brand or retailer that allows for easy returns, just in case you end up with a shoe that’s not a good fit.
The Right Sole
Just like the perfect fit is necessary to provide you with all the support you need during your lifting routine, you’ll want to look for a shoe with a sole that offers lots of stability and support as well. This often means a rather flat shoe with not a lot of extra support, further meaning that weightlifting shoes might not be super-comfortable when you first try them on, especially if you’ve never worn lifting shoes before. However, you’ll appreciate that stability when you’re on the mat, no matter how uncomfortable it is at first.
Do note, though, that not all weightlifting shoes are flat. Some feature a raised heel. These lifting shoes are designed specifically for Olympic lifting and squats. If you’re doing other kinds of weight training, you might want to steer clear of these raised shoes, as they can negatively impact your stability.
Durability and The Best Material
If you plan on using your weightlifting shoes on a near-daily or even weekly basis, you’ll want to be sure to consider durability as you shop. You want a shoe that can stand up to regular wear and tear.
However, as you consider durability, pay attention to the material used for the shoe; while some materials, like leather, are very durable, they might not be the most comfortable when you’re in a sweaty situation. Ideally, you’ll find a shoe that provides a nice blend of durability and comfort.
Regardless of the type of weightlifting shoe you choose, though, make sure you keep that pair of shoes clean with occasional spot washes using lukewarm water and mild soap. This can help extend the life of your shoes while also keeping them looking spiffy.
The 5 Best Weightlifting Shoes
Without further ado, here are our 5 picks for the best weightlifting shoe.
1. Adidas Powerlift 5 Weightlifting Shoes
These Adidas Powerlift 5 Weightlifting Shoes come in four colors and unisex sizes. Made with recycled materials, canvas and mesh, they’re breathable while still being durable. They feature a midsole wedge and rubber outsole for enhanced stability.
Many reviewers report that these shoes are on the lighter side, in case you want a lightweight option that’s a little more comfortable than some of the other weightlifting shoes you might have tried in the past.
2. Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 Shoes
Another popular option from Adidas, these weightlifting shoes feature a low heel, in case that’s something you’re looking for. Again, Adidas offers the shoes in a range of unisex sizes for both men and women and three sleek colors. The shoes are also made with similar canvas and recycled materials for durability, comfort and flexibility.
3. Reebok Legacy Lifter II Women’s Weightlifting Shoes
If you’re specifically looking for a women’s weightlifting shoe, consider this option from Reebok. The heeled shoe provides a solid, sturdy base, and reviewers report that they could see major improvements in their performance after switching to these shoes. The heels are a little bit higher than what you might get with other lifting shoes, so that’s something to take into consideration.
4. Inov-8 Fastlift Power G 380 Men’s Weightlifting Shoe
Featuring a graphene-infused Powerheel, this heavy-duty weightlifting shoe will take a beating, while still being as lightweight as ever. Grippy, with a superior fit, a flexible yet stable base and a breathable upper, reviewers say the shoes feel high-quality and “solid.” They also find that these shoes are a good fit for barbell back squats as well as Olympic lifting.
5. Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes
On the more affordable side of weightlifting shoes, these highly-ranked lifting shoes feature a leather upper, nylon mesh and single-construction sole. The shoes are on the wider side, so they’re a nice option for those who’re struggling to find a comfortable fit for wide feet. Some reviewers even note that these are the only weightlifting shoes that are suitable for their wide feet.
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Best Weightlifting Shoes That Aren’t Weightlifting Shoes
But what if you don’t want a weightlifting-specific shoe? In those cases, you might want to consider one of these options, so you can go from the gym’s weight area to cardio or from Crossfit to street style, all with ease.
6. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
These classic shoes are a popular pick for weightlifters who don’t want a weightlifting shoe, thanks to their flat soles. However, they also just look great with pretty much any outfit. You’ll find a huge array of colors, patterns and fabrics, with limited-edition Converse frequently available, many showing off your favorite fandoms. Plus, many of these sneakers come at a great price compared to what you’ll pay for an average weightlifting shoe.
7. Nike Metcon 8 NBY
A favorite among cross-training shoes, even though these aren’t specifically geared toward strength training, the Nike Metcon 8 NBY might make a perfectly suitable pick for a more well-rounded workout routine. Available in both men’s and women’s versions and in a bevy of color combinations, they’re certainly stylish and can even be customized. If you’re sad that the favorite Nike Romaleos weightlifting shoe is no more, give this other Nike option a go.
8. The Vivo Barefoot Primus Lite III
These all-purpose fitness shoes are unique thanks to their minimalist design. They’re made to fit your foot naturally, providing you with the protection and stability you need while not getting in the way of your body’s natural movements. Because of this, the shoes are flat, thin and lightweight.
If you take a look at the unique design and still aren’t quite sure that these shoes are a good choice for your needs, rest assured that the brand provides a 100-day trial, so you can run them through the wringer before coming down on a final decision.
9. Vans Canvas Sk8-Hi Tapered Shoes
A similar option to Converse sneakers, this option from Vans likewise provides a heavy dose of street style but with the flat sole you need for occasional lifting. Van, also like Converse, is a brand known for its wide array of colors, patterns and looks, so you can pick the ideal shoe to fit your gym rat attire.
10. Reebok Nano 9 Cross Trainer
For cross training, try the highly ranked Rebook Nano that’s available on Amazon. With a rubber sole and body made 100% from fabric, the shoe comes in more than 15 different styles and color combinations. Reviewers report the shoe is ideal for lifting, CrossFit, short-distance running and more.
11. No Bull Black Ivy Trainers
Available for both men and women, these No Bull trainers are great for CrossFit workouts, thanks to their flat, grippy sole that provides that needed extra stability. In addition to using these shoes for cross training, reviewers also report using them exclusively for lifting, as well as for rowing.
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Another Alternative?
If you’re still not finding a perfect shoe to take you between your various fitness activities or to dedicate to your weightlifting, you might want to, instead, try some heel lift inserts.
Heel lift inserts simply slide into your existing workout shoes, providing that extra little bit of heel height that you’d get from a raised weightlifting shoe, but at a much lower price. They also allow you to try out the fit and feel of an elevated heel to see if it’s a feature you’d want to invest in later.
Weightlifting Shoes FAQs
Have more questions as you decide which of the above options is right for you? Don’t have time to read a lengthy weightlifting shoe guide? Here are some quick answers to some of your most-asked questions.
Are weightlifting shoes comfortable?
Weightlifting shoes should be relatively comfortable after you’ve worn them for a while. They may take some time to get accustomed to, though, especially if you don’t often wear shoes with flat soles or shoes without much arch and other cushioning support. However, if you think your lifting shoes are uncomfortable beyond the flat soles, you may want to look for a better fit. Comfort is key to ensuring you actually use the shoes in the gym.
Are weightlifting shoes expensive?
Just like any specialty shoe, yes, weightlifting shoes can be on the pricier side. Just as you would for a running shoe or hiking boot, expect to easily spend $100 or more on your first pair of weightlifting shoes.
Can I use regular tennis shoes for weightlifting?
Yes. If you choose to use regular, non-specific shoes for lifting, just be sure that the shoes provide plenty of stability and feature a flat sole.
Should a beginner buy weightlifting shoes?
If you plan on weightlifting frequently in the future, then yes, weightlifting shoes are absolutely a great investment for beginners. Weightlifting shoes can provide the support and stability needed to make your experience as a newbie easier and more comfortable.
Do I need weightlifting shoes?
If you’re getting serious about your weightlifting and if you plan on weightlifting often, then yes, you do need weightlifting shoes. If you only incorporate lifting into your fitness regimen on occasion or if you’re not interested in the art of weightlifting beyond just a quick workout or a change in your routine, then you might be able to skip this particular purchase.
Ready to Start Shopping?
If you’re sure that weightlifting shoes are a great choice for your workout routine, then don’t wait to make this valuable investment in your health and fitness regimen. The right shoe can make all the difference in your performance and experience.
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The Best Weighlifting Shoes:
- Adidas Powerlift 5 Weightlifting Shoes
- Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 Shoes
- Reebok Legacy Lifter II Women’s Weightlifting Shoes
- Inov-8 Fastlift Power G 380 Men’s Weightlifting Shoe
- Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes
- Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
- Nike Metcon 8 NBY
- The Vivo Barefoot Primus Lite III
- Vans Canvas Sk8-Hi Tapered Shoes
- Reebok Nano 9 Cross Trainer
- No Bull Black Ivy Trainers