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The Best Shoes for Weightlifting Reviewed

last updated: Feb 12, 2020

Today’s best weightlifting shoes are actually a serious part of your gear. Not only can they significantly enhance safety and performance, but they reflect the best in modern style and comfort as well. We’re here to take a look at the cream of the crop for 2019 and provide you with a comprehensive review and roundup of the best shoes for weightlifting. We’ll highlight our favorite and best lifting shoes first and then conduct a more general review of the different brands and categories of powerlifting shoes and reveal our picks for the best of each along the way.

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

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Adidas Men's Adipower
90.4/100 our score
Model
90
Effectiveness
91
Use
91
Fit
89
Heel
91
Adidas Men's Adipower
Why is it better?

Superior ventilation

Improved stability

Improved design

PU-coated Leather Upper

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Researched Sources
17
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
8k
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
10
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
14
Products Evaluated
Sorting Options
Model Effectiveness Use Fit Heel By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.4
Model
98 %
Effectiveness
99 %
Use
99 %
Fit
97 %
Heel
99 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.4
Model
95 %
Effectiveness
95 %
Use
94 %
Fit
93 %
Heel
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.2
Model
92 %
Effectiveness
92 %
Use
91 %
Fit
91 %
Heel
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
Model
90 %
Effectiveness
91 %
Use
91 %
Fit
89 %
Heel
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
Model
88 %
Effectiveness
87 %
Use
87 %
Fit
86 %
Heel
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
$299.98
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.2
Model
86 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Use
85 %
Fit
86 %
Heel
84 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84.6
Model
85 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Use
85 %
Fit
84 %
Heel
84 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.4
Model
82 %
Effectiveness
83 %
Use
83 %
Fit
82 %
Heel
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.2
Model
80 %
Effectiveness
81 %
Use
80 %
Fit
79 %
Heel
81 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.2
Model
78 %
Effectiveness
79 %
Use
79 %
Fit
77 %
Heel
78 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (01.12.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Weightlifting Shoes

1. Reebok Legacy Lifter

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.4
best lifting shoes Reebok Legacy Lifter
Amazon Link
Model
98
Effectiveness
99
Use
99
Fit
97
Heel
99
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

TPU Heel Piece

Perforated Synthetic Leather Upper

Anatomical Shape

Grip Rubber Outsole

Exoframe Technology

Cons:

Takes Some Breaking In

Reebok’s brand new Legacy Lifter is their showcase only shoe. These powerlifting shoes feature a TPU heel, ensuring that you have an in-compressible heel that is both lightweight and durable. The conventional double metatarsal straps in these shoes for weightlifting are joined by an extra lacing strap to deliver superior foot security.Read more

A gap in the top medial velcro strap allows you to quickly tuck your laces into these lifting shoes. The Legacy is a super comfortable lifting shoe that features full-grain leather. An outside TPU counter locks in your heel to prevent slippage. The shape of these lifting shoes is anatomical, complete with double upper straps for a customized fit. The grip rubber on the outsoles gives you traction and lasts ages. The heel has specialized exoframe technology that gives you even more support, making these shoes the best squat shoes out there for lifting!

2. Nike Metcon 2

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.4
best weightlifting shoes
Amazon Link
Model
95
Effectiveness
95
Use
94
Fit
93
Heel
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

100% Mesh

Super-strong Flywire Cables

Stable Platform

Solid Rubber Sole

Lightweight Cushioning

Cons:

Sizing Issues

The Nike Metcon 2 are amazingly versatile powerlifting shoes that introduce an updated drop-in midsole to provide maximum forefoot stability and flexibility. The low profile firm rubber heel on these shoes for weightlifting delivers a solid base for heavy lifting.Read more

Flywire technology makes use of lightweight Vectran filaments to give ultimate structure and support. Such features as molded flex grooves on the forefoot embroidered TPU reinforcement, and the lightweight construction makes Nike Metcon 2 great weightlifting shoes to tackle the varied challenges of CrossFit training. The upper is made out of mesh, offering breathability and improved air circulation. The solid rubber sole creates enough traction to keep you anchored to the ground.

Looking or more information about this model? Read our full review of Nike Metcon 2 shoes.

3. Adidas Powerlift 3

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91.2
best powerlifting shoes
Amazon Link
Model
92
Effectiveness
92
Use
91
Fit
91
Heel
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

High-Density Midsole

Grippy Outsole

Lightweight Synthetic Upper

Lock-in Fit

Air Mesh Material

Cons:

Heel Loses Shape

The lightweight synthetic upper on these shoes for weightlifting comes with an instep strap closure system for great support and lock-in fit. The lining and collar of the tongue comprise air mesh material to vastly improve breathability and reduce moisture.Read more

The Adidas Powerlift 3 are multi-use weightlifting shoes that allow you to squat, deadlift and power clean without having to change your footwear. It features a high-density midsole along with a grip-friendly outsole to provide you with maximum foundational stability.

4. Adidas Men's Adipower

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
best lifting shoes and shoes for weightlifting Adidas Men's Adipower
Amazon Link
Model
90
Effectiveness
91
Use
91
Fit
89
Heel
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Superior ventilation

Improved stability

Improved design

PU-coated Leather Upper

Cons:

Narrow Fit

There’s little if anything to dislike about the Adidas Adipower weightlifting shoes. Adipower helps Adidas stay firmly atop the shoes for the weightlifting pyramid by being a marked upgrade from its predecessor - the already excellent Adistar. These powerlifting shoes are made out of leather, giving them supreme durability and flexibility, once you break them down.Read more

The upper on these shoes for weightlifting is coated in PU, giving it shine and resistance to all kinds of weather conditions. The TPU midsole is firm and strong, supporting you a lot. The adjustable hook-and-loop holds down your rear foot and creates an ideal fit. The heel overlays are lightweight yet give plenty of stability. The anti-slip rubber sole in these lifting shoes keeps you safe when you lift heavy weights, while the vent flow openings keep you cool and fresh.

5. Nike Romaleos 3

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
best lifting shoes Nike Romaleos 3
Amazon Link
Model
88
Effectiveness
87
Use
87
Fit
86
Heel
88
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$299.98
Pros:

Flywire Technology

Flexible Forefoot

Honeycomb-patterned TPU Plate

Synthetic Leather

20 mm Offset

Cons:

Too Narrow

With the Romaleos 3 shoes for weightlifting, Nike states their intent to knock Adidas from the top of the ”best weightlifting shoes“ heap if not soon, then eventually. That ability to customize the color of the R2 makes it a prime example of how performance does not have to be sacrificed for the best powerlifting shoes to achieve great styling.Read more

The Flywire technology gives integrity to the lifting shoes, making them stronger and less likely to fall apart. The forefoot is quite flexible, allowing your feet to move naturally within the shoes, not constricting your movement when you don't need them to. The TPU plate in these best shoes for squats and weightlifting is honeycomb patterned for improved stability. The upper combines synthetic leather and mesh for a lighter feel and better durability. The offset has 20 mm for even more range of motion.

6. Reebok CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.2
lifting shoes Reebok CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0
Amazon Link
Model
86
Effectiveness
85
Use
85
Fit
86
Heel
84
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Leather Toes

Great Design

Dual Hook-and-loop Closure

Flex Grooved Outsole

Anti-friction lining

Cons:

Rubber Separates Fast

The CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0 is one of the best shoes to squat in while weightlifting currently available. With dual tarsal strap and smart, the well-balanced design of these powerlifting shoes is an eye-catcher that also delivers on the performance side in impressive fashion.Read more

The material that makes up these powerlifting shoes changes throughout its construction. The toes are covered in leather for improved durability, while the rest of the best shoes for weightlifting is made out of mesh, giving it flexibility and breathability. The dual hook-and-loop closures keep you locked in tightly while you tackle heavyweights. The heat-activated u-form technology creates that ideal fit we all crave when buying shoes. The flex grooved outsole provides you with excellent traction. An anti-friction lining keeps you safe from blisters and chafing.

7. Pendlay Do-Win

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84.6
lifting shoes Pendlay Do-Win
Amazon Link
Model
85
Effectiveness
85
Use
85
Fit
84
Heel
84
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Synthetic Leather And Mesh Blend

Wide Profile

Improved Breathability

3-4 Inch Heel Height

Two Metatarsal Straps

Cons:

Pricey

Pendlay hasn’t been making weightlifting shoes very long but they hit their stride right out of the gate. The Do-Win 14P Black shoe boasts a wide profile for extra comfort and a hard plastic heel that reduces the shoe’s weight while giving you all the support you need when going at it at the gym.Read more

The upper blends synthetic leather and nylon mesh for an ideal construction. The leather keeps the shoe strong, while the mesh promotes airflow to keep you cool and well ventilated. The sole is improved and made to be stronger, withstanding a lot of weight. The heel is 3-4 inches high, which is just enough to keep your foot in a natural position when you squat or lift. These best shoes for weightlifting even have a 90-day warranty, so if anything goes wrong to know that your shoes are safe! Perhaps the area where Pendlay most obviously separates themselves from their competition in the mid-priced WL footwear market is style. These are great looking lifting shoes and for that, you’ll have to pony up a bit more.

8. Inov8 Fastlift 370 Boa

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.4
powerlifting shoes Inov8 Fastlift 370 Boa
Amazon Link
Model
82
Effectiveness
83
Use
83
Fit
82
Heel
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Cutting Edge Profile

Lightweight Construction

Innovative Lacing Design

Excellent Grip And Stability

Cons:

Too Much Padding

The New Zealand company Inov8 first caught the eye of lifters with their Fastlift 335 model (so named for their weight, a svelte 335g) a few years back. The recent release of their follow-up to the 335 - the 370 Boa - proves that Inov8 is no flash in the pan. The 370 Boa is Inov8’s grab for the “best lifting shoe” brass ring and features a revolutionary closure system.Read more

That system - the “Boa” of the shoe’s name - allows the user to adjust the tension on the strap of these powerlifting shoes by turning a built-in dial that eliminates the need for laces! These best shoes for weightlifting even look like a piece of contemporary art, so be prepared to look good while lifting heavy. The tongue and collar are lightly padded to keep you safe from friction and annoying pinching and rubbing. The foam footbeds are 3 mm thick, and they are removable if you ever get the need to replace them. The FASTLIFT sole has a 0mm lug depth, giving you grip on every outdoor and indoor surface!

9. VS Athletic Weightlifting Shoe II

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80.2
VS Athletic Weightlifting Shoe II weightlifting shoes
Amazon Link
Model
80
Effectiveness
81
Use
80
Fit
79
Heel
81
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Dual hook and loop straps

Flat leather-reinforced sole

Strengthened heel counter

Real leather upper

Cons:

Straps Too Long

Well built, affordable and performance-oriented, the VS Athletic Weightlifting Shoe II is much admired by both novice and experienced lifters. Costing under $100 this weightlifting shoe offers amazing value and one that you would be disappointed to not at least consider the next time you are out shopping for a new pair of weight lifting shoes. To learn more about the VS Athletic lifting shoes read our in-depth VS Athletic weightlifting shoe review. Don't buy until you've read this article!Read more

The upper is made out of genuine leather, which is rare to see today since it's replaced by synthetic leather most of the time. There are some mesh areas present that increase the breathability of the shoe. This shoe offers a dual hook and loop feature that helps improve your stability and give you much-needed support. The sole is reinforced flat leather which helps with overall durability and offers you the support and stability you need when you are lifting weights. The heel counter is strengthened, so do not be afraid to go really heavy when wearing these powerlifting shoes!

10. ASICS Men's Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.2
ASICS Men's Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer lifting shoes
Amazon Link
Model
78
Effectiveness
79
Use
79
Fit
77
Heel
78
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Synthetic Leather And Mesh

Padded Collar And Tongue

Mesh Lining

Dual-density DuoMax® Support System

Forefoot GEL® Cushioning System

Cons:

Runs Large

The Japanese company Asics has been around since 1949. In spite of their significant share of the ever-changing athletic footwear market, however, Asics has continued to manufacture the exact same weightlifting shoes they made 50 years ago. The Asics Men's Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer you buy today is made from the same template and materials as 30 years ago. That’s good because it’s among the best shoes for powerlifting, but bad because the design fairy has been frozen out.Read more

These lifting shoes are 100% synthetic, combining synthetic leather and mesh elements that brings out the best in them. The padded collar and tongue keep your feet locked in and prevent chafing and blisters. The mesh lining is breathable, while the soft sock liner can be removed to be replaced with different liners better fit for your needs. The midfoot support strap locks you down and keeps your arches in check. Dual-density DuoMax® Support System increases support and stability even more, while the rearfoot and Forefoot GEL® Cushioning System absorbs shock and allows you to move pain-free.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Model

Weightlifting shoes come in a variety of styles to serve a variety of purposes. From straight-up Olympic weight lifting shoes designed and built for one purpose to multidimensional CrossFit models created to save you from having to change shoes when you go from the weightlifting rack to the road. The guide below represents our picks for the best squatting shoes in each category.

First, let's take a look at Crossfit shoes. Crossfit regimes include rope climbing, jumping, running, sled pulling, weightlifting and more and call for a shoe that’s as versatile as you are. Top Crossfit shoes attempt to fill this need by essentially being all things to all sports. They may have a slightly elevated heel to accommodate certain aspects of Oly weightlifting, a slightly cushioned insole for dynamic absorption during running (but not so much as to be useless during squats and deadlifts), sticky outsoles to help you climb that rope easier and often assume a minimalist profile. Take a look at the best shoes for Crossfit and learn more about the benefits of Crossfit shoes in areas of comfort, versatility, and style while treading lightly on your wallet. They’ll feel right at home whether you’re executing squats, climbing the rope or barreling down a muddy cross country trail. Top CrossFit shoes are quasi-minimalist in design and meet traction, shock absorption, weight and breathability requirements of road work while retaining enough stability to handle moderate amounts of weight. The best Crossfit shoes for women also tend toward the minimalist though designers can’t be as willing to throw comfort under the bus as they sometimes are with men’s shoes. That’s because studies show that women who run at a competitive level typically have more rigid feet than the rest of us which brings the need for comfort to the fore.

Now let's go onto shoes made for squatting and deadlifting. If you’re wearing the wrong shoe for squats and deadlifts you’re leaving the weight on the platform. With this type of lifting, you need to have solid, stable, no-nonsense contact with the ground and this is why Converse Chuck Taylor’s have been popular deadlift shoes for so long. They’re great at creating maximum push by getting the most out of your lower legs. For a long time, it was Chuck Taylors or bare feet but that’s not the case anymore. If you like to end your weightlifting session with some time on the track or treadmill you’re going to want a shoe that promotes maximum upward thrust while you’re under the weight but also hugs the ground, which is relatively flexible and is great for putting miles behind you. Best shoes for lifting weights and running need to be durable, stable and flat but light on the cushioning in order to help your feet do what 3 million years of evolution designed them to do. This may be one of the most challenging categories of footwear design and our picks for the best may surprise you. High top, flat-soled, versatile gym shoes are perfect for squats and deadlifts, leg presses and more. In addition, they will serve you well should you decide to take up mixed martial arts, boxing or a slew of other activities that require you to have your feet flat on the ground. High top powerlifting shoes range from the decidedly low-tech to state of the art athletic footwear with clean, professional profiles that evoke both intent and good taste. Check out our choices for the best high top weightlifting shoes. While the raised heel on the Adipower and Romaleos provide stability, superior positioning and the ability to drive downward with maximum force there are times you want a shoe that positions your foot absolutely horizontal to the lifting plane. Flat lifting shoes replicate the natural barefoot stance but with the added grip only a sole can provide. If you have flat feet it can be difficult to find the best weightlifting shoes that will aid you in creating upward push during your deadlifts while also providing arch support. Opinions about exactly which type of shoe may be best for flat-footed lifters run the gamut from work boots to top-of-the-line Nike Romaleos weightlifting shoes.

Effectiveness

The three most obvious benefits of weightlifting shoes are easy to quantify. First, their solid (often wooden) heel ensures the upward force you apply is transferred effectively to the weight where it belongs. Second, this heel forces the shoulders out over the front plane of your body creating a proper dynamic relationship between body and weight. And third a snug, metatarsal strap prevents your foot from sliding laterally and negatively affecting balance and stability. All these features reduce your chance of injury and increase your chance of attaining your personal goals.

This heel also helps you lift better, and you can easily tackle even more weight than what you're used to! This, in turn, gives faster results, and you will see improved muscle growth and you will definitely feel stronger, all thanks to top these shoes! Do not expect to be super-strong just by putting them on though. Proper weightlifting shoes have a special lifted heel, and these heels increase the range of motion of our ankles. A lot of people struggle when starting to squat, and this improved range of motion can help you squat deeper and maintain that perfect form. As you move, the sneakers will also help your hips flex and move the way they are supposed to, and this, combined with the ankle range of motion, means that you will be able to lift heavier weights, which is what the goal is in the first place. The heels also create a stable surface for you to push your feet up against, and this gives you more power to lift even better. This is why you should avoid weightlifting shoes that have plenty of cushioning! This brings us to our final point - do not use the weightlifting shoes for activities that are not weightlifting, as they will not give you any benefits. If, however, you do more than just lifting when you go to the gym, a crossover shoe is what you're going to need because it will cover every need you have!

Use

When you are lifting weights, you expect that all of the force that you generate is going to go towards lifting the weight over the desired distance. Often, though, that is not the case. In many instances, much of your force is dissipated through your foot due to compression. The reason? Too much cushioning in the heel of the shoe. This is like trying to do a squat while standing on a huge marshmallow. Which is why a solid and stable heel is so important. But not everyone needs to go to the expense of buying a pair of weightlifting shoes. For some, it may actually impede their training.

If you are a casual gym-goer who is trying to lose a few pounds then you probably don’t need specialized shoes for lifting weights. Your normal trainers should do the job quite nicely. If you, however, are set bettering yourself, improving your overall sports performance, increasing muscle mass, improving strength or looking to get into CrossFit, then you will want a decent and reliable pair of shoes specifically made for weightlifting. In fact, a quality pair of weightlifting shoes is possibly the greatest investment you can make to improve your performance in the gym.

Olympic weightlifting (or Oly) shoes are usually worn by Olympic weightlifters. Powerlifters also use them, along with Crossfitters when doing Oly type lifts.

Don’t think that you should only buy lifting shoes when you have achieved a certain level of strength. They will benefit a novice who’s only squatting the bar just as much as a veteran lifter who reps out with 600 pounds. Weightlifting shoes won’t turn you into a 660-pound lifter, but they will put your body into the ideal alignment for doing squats.

As a result, you have increased stability and solidity when you are squatting. This will allow you to lift more weight. When you are lifting from a more stable surface, you are naturally able to lift more weight. It all goes back to an old saying that you can't shoot a cannon from a canoe. You need to have a solid base or all of your power will be dissipated. Traditional trainers normally provide the bottoms of your feet with a lot of cushioning around the sides and bottom of the heel. This is the weight training equivalent of shooting a cannon from a canoe; you will lack the solid base that you need to propel the force upward. That’s because the soft cushioning will absorb the force. That is the last thing that you want when you are lifting heavyweight.

The raised heel style weightlifting shoe is ideally suited for back squats. It will also improve your execution, stability, and power when performing front squats, clean and jerk, snatches and overhead squats. They will help your performance whether you are pushing for a new one-rep max or if you’re doing a lightweight of 20 reps.

You should not do deadlifts when wearing raised heel weightlifting shoes. When you are deadlifting you actually want your heels to be as close to the floor as possible. Traditional raised heel weightlifting shoes do just the opposite. That, in effect, means that you are deadlifting in high heels, putting your body at an awkward angle of alignment. Because you are higher from the ground, it also means that you have to lift the bar that little bit higher to get into the top position of the deadlift.

As with most things, however, there is an exception to the don’t deadlift with weightlifting shoes rule. Some guys training with an elevated heel on purpose on the deadlift in order to make themselves stronger in competition when they revert back to standard flat heel shoes. This should only be done under the guidance of a knowledgeable coach as it does carry enhanced risks.

If you are doing multiple exercises in the gym, ranging from squats to plyometrics or upper body exercises, you will probably be better off with a pair of cross-training shoes. You should also avoid wearing your raised heel weightlifting shoes outside of the gym so that they won’t wear out (wear normal trainers to the gym and swap into your weightlifting shoes in the locker room).

If you are a Strongman athlete, Olympic weightlifting shoes may not be the best option for you. Although they will put you in the ideal positioning for squats and provide enhanced stability, they are not conducive to the combined speed and strength moves such as the farmer’s walk or the yoke exercise.

Powerlifters will be less likely to benefit from weightlifting shoes with raised heels than Olympic lifters. That is because powerlifters require less ankle mobility. The added height that you get with the raised heel will also require you to cover more distance in your lift.

Fit

The fit of the shoes will determine how much comfort you feel when wearing them, and comfort matters a lot. Wide feet need wider sneakers, and narrow feet need a slimmer shoe. If your ankles are weaker than normal, go for high top weightlifting shoes that will keep them stable and secure. But how can you tell that you've got the right fit for you?

First, these shoes should feel snug, but don't go thinking that they should squeeze your feet too much! Footwear that fits you to the tee should stick to your heels while still giving your toes some wiggle room. There also shouldn't be plenty of room between the toes and the front of the shoes either. The distance shouldn't be more than 1/8 inches between your longest toe and the end of the toebox. If you feel like your toes are being squished, and you can actually see your little toe bulging from the sides, chances are that you've got the wrong width on. You shouldn't feel exaggerated pain or pinching when you buy your shoes, even if they are brand new. Breaking them in shouldn't be too difficult, and if you always end up feeling pain then it's likely that you've got the wrong size on! Shop when your feet are the largest, which is in the evening because that's when our feet are swollen. This ensures that you will always have the best possible fit!

Heel

Every good weightlifting shoe should have a little heel. This heel gives us much-needed stability and support, and you must make sure that you've got the right heel size for your needs. The heel height of weightlifting shoes can vary a lot, but the standard height is .75-inches. Some athletes still like to put inserts into their footwear to make the heels even higher. These heels help you achieve a greater squatting depth while keeping your torso in the right form.

Before deciding how high your heels need to be, you must take your own body shape into account. How long your legs and torso are is what you need to consider when buying weightlifting shoes. Think hard about whether your torso and legs fall into the short or long category, and once you do figure it out, you can then confidently buy the shoes. If you can't figure it out, ask a physician or a fitness coach to help you. Sometimes, the torso can be long and the legs can be short, or vice versa or they can be of matching length. If you have long legs, go for a heel that is no shorter than the standard height. If you have short legs, the highest heel you can go for is the .75", and you can work your way down from there. If your torso is long, you will likely lean forward and lose your balance when you lift, and that is the last thing you need. Short legs and long bodies need shorter heels, while the opposite situation needs higher heels. Both long legs and torsos need high heels, while short legs and bodies can choose any height they want!

Expert Interviews & Opinions

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
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#1
ico Model
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#2
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#3
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#4
ico Fit
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#5
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expert tips icon
Comfort

Comfy shoes are the best shoes, and if your footwear is comfortable you won't waste time thinking about that uncomfortable seam rubbing you raw or the blister forming right now. You must forget about excessive cushioning, or any cushioning at all when buying weightlifting shoes. The padding can make your feet sink into the shoes, and you need solid support. When you've sunk into your shoes, you will need more effort to lift, which can potentially harm you. The seams and stitches of your shoes should not pose a problem either, and if you feel anything slightly poking you when you first put the shoes on, you can count on it to be a big troublemaker later! Before you deem your footwear uncomfortable, make sure that you've broken it in properly first. Once you do that, you can judge the comfort of the shoes!

Durability

Weightlifting is hard both for your feet and for the sneakers, so it's vital that they can withstand a lot of pressure. It's always better to go for a pricier shoe that has a better construction than a poorly made cheap one! If you want your sneakers to last long, do not use them for anything else besides weightlifting. If you care about them properly, weightlifting shoes will probably outlast every other kind of shoe you have! If you notice the heels falling apart, if the glue is breaking down, or if the upper starts to crack, it's time to think about finding a replacement. If you still have a valid warranty, consider replacing them for a new pair. The straps should also look just like they did on day one because they provide us with security and support. Check the interior of the shoe as well, and as soon as you see things looking like they shouldn't, it's time to say goodbye!

Other Factors to Consider

Bottom Line

Weightlifting shoes have come a long way since the days of Paul Anderson’s leather Oxfords. Today’s best shoes for weightlifting are the result of years of trial and error, advances in materials and construction methods and comprehensive computer-aided analysis of human physiology. With the re-emergence of free weights as a desirable, even preferable, method of weight training the need for good shoes to lift in has never been greater and neither has the choices. The weightlifting shoe review pages we've put together can help you narrow those choices. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What should I consider when buying powerlifting shoes?

a:

This is something you must be aware of before getting your weightlifting shoes. The most important things to look out for are soles that cannot be compressed (cushion-free), the proper heel height, the support the shoes offer you, how comfy they are, and how they fit you. You can also consider their style and general appearance, but these things do not matter so much when it comes to performance and your well-being!

q: How much should I spend on weightlifting shoes?

a:

How much you spend will be entirely up to you but if you’re a weekend warrior it doesn’t make much sense to drop $250 on a pair of the best Olympic weightlifting shoes when you can buy perfectly functional Wei-Rui weightlifting shoes for $69.

q: How do I know if my lifting shoes fit me well?

a:

The shoes shouldn't allow your feet to wiggle inside too much, but they shouldn't feel overly snug either. There should be 1/8 inches of space between your longest toe and the front of the toe box. The sneakers should be wide and long enough to properly house your feet without any discomfort or circulation issues. Remember to break-in the sneakers before you get serious about wearing them! Leather will soften a lot, but synthetic shoes are likely to feel almost as snug as the first day you got them, so keep that in mind when getting weightlifting shoes!

q: I want to do other things besides weightlifting when I go to the gym. What kind of shoes do I need?

a:

Weightlifting footwear is good for just that - lifting. The heel is specialized for support, and there's no cushioning at all, so these sneakers might not do well if you want to do anything else that's not weightlifting! This is why cross-trainers exist. They have features that are great for a huge range of sports and activities, and you will benefit the most if you choose them!

q: How do I know when to replace my weightlifting shoes?

a:

Weightlifting footwear, if used only for lifting, is one of the most long-lasting footwear out there. These shoes are strong and do not have the tendency to fall apart so easily. But they will fall apart eventually, and it's important you know when that happens because you will not get any of the benefits if they do not function well. Check the soles, and see if they are starting to fall apart since they are the most important part of these shoes. Check the inside of the sneakers as well, and if you see anything amiss, it's probably better to find new shoes.