In any workout, wearing the right weightlifting shoes is essential to protect yourself against injury and enhance performance. Investing in the right shoe for the type of training you are doing, and one that fits you correctly is necessary for your health AND performance.
When it comes to weightlifting, it’s important to work from a solid foundation – starting with your feet. Picking the right weightlifting shoes will provide stability and may even help you lift more weight. This is due to weightlifting shoes’ solid sole and lifted heel.
Can’t I Just Wear Any Workout Shoes to Weightlift?
Weightlifting shoes aren’t 100% necessary for everyone. However, if you are committed to improving your weightlifting performance while and have a set weightlifting routine, it’s highly recommended to invest in a pair. As mentioned above, weightlifting shoes provide a stable foundation, giving you MORE power when lifting.
Lifting in running shoes can hinder performance and even cause injury. For proper running shoes must have tons of cushion, so if you’re lifting with them, your feet sink into the cushion. The stiff, raised heel of weightlifting shoes prevents this sinking. It provides the full range of motion and support needed for powerlifting and clean squats. Most lifting shoes also have a shoe strap, which provides additional support.
But – before investing in your shoes, it’s important to do your research and test how the shoes fit you. Consider how advanced you are, and ask yourself what type of lifting you’ll be doing.
Best Weightlifting Shoe Brands
- Adidas
- Nike
- Do-Win
- Reebok
Adidas Weightlifting Shoes
Adidas Powerlift 4
These shoes are best for those getting their feet wet in the world of lifting. The heel sits at .65”, and the shoes have a narrow fit, midsole wedge and wide instep strap for complete stability. These shoes do have a lower heel, but this could be beneficial for low-bar and high-bar squatting.
Great for: Beginners, versatility, low-bar & high-bar squatting.
Adidas Leistung 16
These shoes have a much higher heel than the Powerlift 4’s, which can be helpful when lifting more weight. These shoes feature a Micro-adjusting BOA lacing system with a knob on top for a tight, secure hold. The glove-like fit provides stability, essential for a safer workout.
Great for: Lifting heavier weight, glove-like fit, stability, durability.
Nike Weightlifting Shoe
Nike Romaleos 3
Great for women, these shoes are perfect for those who need more mobility when lifting. They feature a midfoot strap that helps with stability and is extremely lightweight.
Great for: Versatility, lightweight, women, slimmer feet.
Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe
Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe
Featuring a 0.75” hard plastic heel and wider toe box, these shoes are ideal for Olympic lifting. They offer two shoe straps for optimum support. If you’re serious about weightlifting but have a tighter budget, these shoes are a great option, as they are around $95.
Great for: Tight budget, Olympic lifting, good support.
Reebok Weightlifting Shoe
Reebok Legacy Lifter
Made with a 0.75” heel perfect for deep squats, the Reebok Legacy Lifter is similar to the Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe with two adjustable straps to provide ultimate stability. However, this shoe is a wider fit in comparison to the Do-Win. Made with leather, the Reebok Legacy Lifter is strong and durable.
Great for: Powerlifting, heavy lifting, durability.
Takeaway
When it comes to any type of exercise, there is no one-style-fits-all shoe. It’s essential to pick a shoe that is right for your workout routine and foot shape to prevent injury.
Weightlifting shoes are not necessary for everyone but are incredibly beneficial for serious lifters who are committed to improving their performance. Before investing in weightlifting shoes, ask yourself what type of lifting you’ll be doing, do your research, and don’t just buy the first shoes you come across.
