On the checklist of a standard gym-goer, iPods, lifting belts, and water bottles get plenty of love. However, they often overlook what’s on their feet, which is a surprise given the importance of wearing the right shoes for weightlifting.
People show up in the gym wearing all kinds of shoes. Beginners are usually completely lost and have no clue that there are special shoes for weightlifting. Some of the more experienced weightlifters claim that shoes aren’t that important; it is your effort that matters the most. This is true, but it is important to note that the right pair of shoes will add to your effort. You can wear your regular running shoes or squash shoes to the gym; no one would stop you. You can even lift barbells in your old man’s Army boots. But, if you are serious about weightlifting and want to make the most out of your efforts, it is best to wear weightlifting shoes to the gym.
Weightlifting shoes can recruit more fibers and activate more muscles. They allow you to push through the floor without putting extra effort, which enables you to produce more force during the lift. When you are doing leg exercises, you’ll have to drive through the heels. Driving force through the heel in conventional running shoes is very hard. The sole doesn’t support this. Weightlifting shoes can help you feel sturdier during leg exercises, deadlifts, heavy squats, and other similar exercises. This is why you should invest in weightlifting shoes.
There are currently a variety of weightlifting shoes available in the market, which can make it hard for you to find a suitable pair. But, don’t worry as we have researched and found the best weightlifting shoes for you. We will discuss the features and specifications of these shoes so that you can select a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. Before we talk about weightlifting shoes, let us take look at a few things you should consider when shopping for this type of footwear.
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Factors to Consider When Shopping for Weightlifting Shoes
· Comfort
When shopping for weightlifting footwear, comfort should be your top priority. Wearing uncomfortable shoes will do you no good and you will struggle to carry out your workouts. Comfort is related to breathability and fit. When you are lifting weights and working out, you’ll sweat a lot, which is why it is important to find a weightlifting shoe made with breathable uppers. The last thing you want is training in footwear soaked with sweat. Wet feet act as a breeding ground for bacteria. Moreover, if your shoes are wet, your feet may slide inside, affecting your form.
Also, make sure that the pair you choose isn’t too loose or too tight. If it is too loose, your stability will be affected. If it is too tight, it’ll constrict blood supply. In addition to this, look for a model that comes with a roomy toe box and ample forefoot space.
· Heel Height
The heel height has a major effect on your performance in the gym. Regardless of the exercise you are doing, working out in high heels is ill-advised. Stability is important in all forms of weightlifting and if the heel is too high, you won’t be able to maintain stability. Besides this, heel height is also directly correlated to form. If your feet aren’t stable and your form isn’t right, your performance will be compromised. On top of that, your feet will be at a greater risk of injury.
Most weightlifting shoes have a small heel – generally of 2 cm. If you work out in shoes with a heel raised over 3 cm, you are exposing your feet to injuries. The actual heel height depends on the exercise you are doing. For example, raised heels should be avoided at all cost if you are doing a deadlift. Reason being, shoes with high heels lower your vertical balance. With a raised heel, you are more likely to lean forward when lifting a heavy weight off the ground. If you lean forward while lifting, you will be more likely to injure your back. However, a slightly raised heel isn’t a bad thing in other weightlifting workouts like squats.
· Materials
Weightlifting shoes are available in a variety of materials. The heel is usually made out of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Shoes with a TPU heel provide a solid base to stand on. It is also more durable compared to wooden or leather heel. Wooden heels are preferred by athletes who like old-school models. They are used in shoes designed for Olympic lifts. Leather heels and similar to wooden ones and provide a more responsive feel. One issue with wooden and leather heels is that they aren’t too durable.
· Outsole
You should also pay attention to the outsole of the weightlifting shoe. You don’t want to lose your footing when you are squatting or deadlifting. Slipping and falling while lifting weights can be catastrophic for you and even those around you. So make sure that your shoes are equipped with the right outsole that’ll prevent slips. Having a solid grip also allows you to lift more weight – you can firmly plant your feet on the floor and use this connection to lift weights more effectively.
Weightlifting shoes come with good grip but minimal tread so the more contact you make with the floor of the gym, the better grip you’ll get. In most cases, rubber outsoles provide the best grip, ensuring that you don’t lose your footing while lifting weights.
· Midsole
The midsole of the shoe provides shock absorption and cushioning. Running shoes normally have thick midsoles as you need more cushioning and shock absorption during running to prevent foot injury. The midsole of a weightlifting shoe should also be thick. It is usually made from EVA. A firmer type of this material used in the midsole makes the shoe more durable, but heavier; whereas a softer type improves shock absorption but wears out quickly.
Are Weightlifting Shoes a Better Option?
Getting the right weightlifting footwear is important and the best pair for you will depend on what type of workout you are performing. The right pair of shoes can help you push past your limits since they are engineered to assist you in maintaining proper form and balance.
In one research study, participants, divided into two groups, were asked to perform a one-rep max barbell back squat. One group did the squat while wearing weightlifting shoes while the other performed the workout in basketball sneakers. It was found that the participants wearing weightlifting shoes were more likely to reduce lower back strain and maintain proper form. In another study, it was found that weightlifting footwear helped people maintain an upright torso and reduced ankle movement during squats.
Read Also: Best Workout Shoes for Men
Our Top 3 Choices
Best Overall Choice: Adidas Men’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer
Premium Product: Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes
Best Value: Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer
Best Weightlifting Shoes
1. Adidas Performance Men’s Crazypower TR
The Adidas performance Crazypower TR provides a solid foundation, combined with durability and flexibility to improve your performance in the gym. These shoes are built for different types of lifts and will help keep your feet comfortable thanks to the soft textile lining of the interior. The uppers of the Crazypower TR are made with a combination of textile and synthetic materials and come with RPU protective cage for durability. These materials don’t compromise on breathability, ensuring that your feet stay dry and sweat-free during the workout sessions.
The midsole of the Crazypower TR features TPU material that provides support to your feet. The forefoot area of these shoes is quite roomy, which means that people with wider feet wouldn’t feel uncomfortable wearing them. These shoes are also equipped with a rubber outsole, which should provide a solid grip on all types of surfaces to ensure that your feet stay on the ground during the workout.
Pros of the Adidas Performance Men’s Crazypower TR
- Wide toe box
- Durable construction
- Comfortable
- Rubber outsole provides solid traction
Cons of the Adidas Performance Men’s Crazypower TR
- Minimalist padding and support
2. Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 is versatile footwear that can be used for weightlifting workouts and running. These lightweight shoes can enhance your performance in the gym as they provide solid traction and superior stability while ensuring a secure fit. They are equipped with 360° Rope-Tec technology for added protection. Moreover, the Inov-8 F-Lite 235 features a denser heel unit for better stability and a multidirectional outsole which ensures that your feet have a solid grip regardless of the surface. These shoes are equipped with a seamless toe bumper for increased cushioning and protection against shock.
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 also has a roomy toe box, which should allow your toe to splay and prevent blistering. The uppers are made with full-bodied mesh, ensuring that your feet get plenty of fresh air and stay cool and dry during your workout. These weightlifting shoes also utilize the ‘Met Cradle’ design, supporting the midfoot and preventing your foot from sliding inside the shoes. Furthermore, the Inov-8 features a compressed EVA midsole that offers shock absorption and cushioning, preventing foot pain.
Pros of the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235
- Versatile shoe
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Solid traction
Cons of the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235
- Sizing issues
3. Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe
The Inov-8 F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe is the second version of the F-Lite 235 discussed above. These shoes, like the previous model, are extremely light and airy. The uppers are made from a breathable mesh that doesn’t limit your movement while giving you a snug and secure fit. Despite being lightweight, the F-Lite 235 V2 doesn’t compromise on protection, stability, and support
These shoes feature ADAPTERFIT Met Cradle design that adapts to the natural movement of your foot and swells it when you are in motion. On top of that, the Meta-Flex technology allows multidirectional flexibility while the lacing system holds your feet secure in the shoe. The F-Lite 235 V2 also provides ample shock absorption and cushioning. These shoes have a synthetic sole that should provide good traction on solid surfaces. Overall, the F-Lite 235 is a pretty decent option for anyone looking for a versatile pair of shoes that can be used for weightlifting, running and other workouts.
Pros of the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Secure and snug fit
- Durable
Cons of the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lite 235 V2 Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Sizing issues
4. Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes
The Nike Romaleos 3 is one of the most popular weightlifting shoes currently available in the market. These shoes are comfortable, stylish and provide reliable support to your feet. They have a narrower profile compared to the previous model and are designed to provide a secure fit around the midfoot while giving more room in the forefoot area. The uppers are made with Nike’s Flywire material, which is flexible, lightweight, and quite breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool, dry and sweat-free. The outsole of the Romaleos 3 is made with durable rubber, which is why these shoes are lauded for their ability to grip the floor. The outsole also features Honeycomb TPU plate for stability during weightlifting.
One of the things we like about the Nike Romaleos 3 is that it comes with two interchangeable insoles – a soft one and a hard one. You can use any of these depending on your workout. The softer insole allows for more cushioned landing while the harder one should provide you with more stability for lifting. These shoes feature a traditional lacing system that allows for a customized fit. A strap is also there to secure your foot firmly in place.
Pros of the Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes
- Double enclosure
- Rubber outsole provides solid traction
- Interchangeable footbeds
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons of the Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes
- Expensive
- Not great for wider feet
5. Adidas Men’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer
The Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 is a good option for weightlifting as well as other workouts. Made from synthetic leather, these shoes allow for maximum comfort and breathability, ensuring that your feet stay dry and cool all the time. The air mesh collar, tongue, and lining make the shoes more breathable and comfortable.
The Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 features Adiwear outsole that is extremely durable and helps you maintain a solid grip on the gym floor during your lifts. The die-cut midsole of these shoes is engineered for weightlifting and provides lightweight stability to help enhance your performance during weightlifting workouts. These shoes also feature a traditional lacing system, giving you a customized fit. A strap is also there to provide to keep your feet secure.
Positive reviews from the majority of customers serve as a testament to Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1’s quality and performance. If you are looking for a weightlifting shoe that can help improve your performance during lifting workouts, the Adidas Powerlift 3.1 should be on your shortlist.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer
- Solid traction
- Flexible toe
- Lightweight midsole
- Good stability
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer
- Expensive
6. Adidas Men’s Leistung.16 Ii
The Adidas Leistung.16 Ii is another great pair of weightlifting shoes. These shoes feature uppers made of synthetic material to offer flexibility and support during your workout sessions. This material also allows natural movement of the foot, stabilizing your back foot. Moreover, the synthetic construction allows air to move in freely, thus your feet would stay cool and odor-free.
The Adidas Leistung.16 Ii features an adjustable BOA closure system to ensure your midfoot is well-secured. This closure system boasts a low-friction lace guide, a regulating dial, and steel laces. Once the BOA system is adjusted, it’ll tighten the straps on the lateral and medial sides of your foot, providing you with maximum support. In addition to the BOA system, the Leistung.16 Ii features a conventional lace-up closure for a snug and secure fit.
This pair of weightlifting shoes also feature a strong TPU midsole, designed to deliver a sturdy and durable base for your foot. Moreover, they provide a 24.8 mm heel lift, which should help you achieve better ankle movement during your weightlifting workouts. These shoes also come with a drop-in insole for additional cushioning. This insole is removable, so you can take it out if you want a firm underfoot feel.
The Adidas Liestung.16 Ii features a flat rubber outsole for maximum traction. It should keep your feet firmly on the ground during your intense workout sessions.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Leistung.16 Ii
- Breathable uppers
- Rearfoot cradle for superior lockdown stability
- BOA closure system
- Strong TPU midsole
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Leistung.16 Ii
- Could have been more secure
7. Reebok Men’s CrossFit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer
The CrossFit Nano 8.0 features Flexweave uppers, which provide stability, durability, and breathability, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable and dry even during the most intense weightlifting workouts. These shoes have a stable yet flexible design and come with a rubber outsole which is equipped with RopePro technology. This means that you will get solid traction during your workouts and while climbing a rope (if you are into these types of exercises).
The midsole of the CrossFit Nano 8.0 comes with generous cushioning to help keep your feet comfortable. Moreover, these shoes feature a wide toe box, giving your toes ample room to splay during your weightlifting workouts. The CrossFit Nano 8.0 is built with high-quality materials so it should last a long time. Its versatile design would allow you to use it for weightlifting as well as several other exercises.
Pros of the Reebok Men’s CrossFit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer
- Wide toe box
- Flexweave uppers
- Cushioning midsole
- RopePro outsole
Cons of the Reebok Men’s CrossFit Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer
- Sizing issues
- Minimal arch support
8. Reebok Lifter PR
The uppers of the Reebok Lifter PR are made with a combination of full-grain leather and mesh to provide support to your feet without compromising on comfort and breathability. The leather supplies rigidity to the shoes, ensuring that they retain their form while offering flexibility to your feet. The mesh tongue is lightly padded for a comfortable fit. Moreover, the perforations around the toe box prevent odor.
The Reebok Lifter PR has a wider base, which should give you more stability when lifting heavy barbells. These shoes are also equipped with a solid rubber outsole, designed to provide good traction on gym surfaces. The TPU midsole of this pair supplies durability and flexibility. The rubber wedge, running between the TPU plate and the heel section, provides ample height for lower squats. The outsole is solid so it won’t compress, ensuring that you have stability during your weightlifting workouts.
The collar of the Reebok Lifter PR is lightly padded for added comfort. Moreover, these shoes have a traditional lacing system with a hook-and-loop closure that allows for a more secure fit.
Pros of the Reebok Lifter PR
- Reasonably priced
- TPU midsole
- Durable
- Solid traction
- Mesh and leather uppers
Cons of the Reebok Lifter PR
- Sizes run large
9. Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting
The Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes are designed to provide maximum efficiency when you are lifting heavy weights. They come with a raised heel to ensure that your posture stays on point regardless of the workout you are performing. There is a Velcro strap on the midfoot, which delivers additional stability and support while ensuring that the laces don’t get loose. This strap is really nice for getting the shoes extra tight if you prefer a tight fit.
The uppers of the Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes are made with high-quality materials, which are breathable, durable and comfortable. On top of that, they have a wide toe box, so your toes won’t rub against each other, reducing the likelihood of blisters. The Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes feature a solid, anti-slip outsole, which should provide you with solid traction on all types of surfaces.
These shoes are great for heavy weightlifting and despite being inexpensive, they last a long time.
Pros of the Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting
- Raised heel
- Lace-up closure with a Velcro strap
- Durable construction
- Breathable and comfortable
Cons of the Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting
- Not versatile
10. Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter 2.0 Training Shoe
The Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter 2.0 has received positive reviews from the majority of customers, which shows that it is an option worth considering if you are looking for high-quality weightlifting footwear. These shoes feature synthetic uppers, which keep them sturdy and lightweight. There is also a mesh section, which supplies air to your feet, keeping them fresh, cool, and sweat-free. The combination of synthetic and mesh materials reduce weight and make the shoes breathable and comfortable, without affecting their durability.
The Reebok CrossFit Lifter 2.0, like several other models, features a lace-up closure with an adjustable strap that you can use to tighten the shoes for a more secure fit. The toe area of these shoes is quite spacious, thus your toes would have ample room to wiggle. The Reebok CrossFit Lifter 2.0 also features a high-abrasion rubber outsole that should provide solid traction, ensuring that your feet stay firmly on the ground during your lifts.
Pros of the Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter 2.0 Training Shoe
- Comfortable
- Good support and stability
- Breathable
- Versatile
- Stylish
Cons of the Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter 2.0 Training Shoe
- May be too tight for some
11. Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0
The Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0 can be used for a variety of exercises, including squats and lunges. These shoes should provide you with a stable foundation while supplying ample amount of support to help you perform those lifting workouts. The CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0 comes with synthetic uppers, which maintain their form even during extreme workouts. The breathable mesh allows the air to pass through, preventing the build-up of sweat. The mesh also reduces the overall weight of the shoes.
The Reebok CrossFit Lifting Plus 2.0 features two adjustable straps that allow you to tighten the shoes and lock your foot into position. Despite their firm lockdown, they don’t restrict your movement during workouts. The adjustable straps also ensure that your laces don’t get loose in the middle of an exercise. The Reebok CrossFit Lifting Plus 2.0 has ample room in the toe box, which means that your toe would be able to splay with ease. The collar and tongue of these shoes are generously cushioned for additional comfort.
The Reebok CrossFit Lifting Plus 2.0 comes with flex grooved outsole and features anti-friction lining to ensure that your feet stay on the ground during your intense workouts.
Pros of the Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0
- Solid heels
- Flexible forefoot area
- Solid traction
- Lace-up closure with two adjustable straps
- Reasonably priced
Cons of the Reebok Women’s CrossFit Lifter Plus 2.0
- Not too durable
12. Inov-8 Women’s FastLift 325 Fitness Shoe
The Inov-8 FastLift 325 is another solid option for women who are serious about weightlifting. These shoes feature uppers made of breathable mesh and enhanced with synthetic overlays. This choice of materials makes the pair extremely lightweight. The Inov-8 FastLift 325 feature Meta-Flex forefoot technology, which provides comfortable and flexible movement. The external heel cage and Power Truss technology supply stability while providing you with a solid base for enhanced performance during heavyweight lifts.
The Inov-8 FastLift 325 is quite versatile, meaning that you can use them for deadlifts, squats, and performance training. They offer exceptional forefoot flexibility, making them a good option for dynamic movement. These shoes feature a traditional lace-up closure with a hook-and-loop closure strap, which allows for a snug fit.
Pros of the Inov-8 Women’s FastLift 325 Fitness Shoe
- Good stability
- Breathable
- Wide toe box
- Flexible and comfortable
- High-abrasion rubber outsole
Cons of the Inov-8 Women’s FastLift 325 Fitness Shoe
- Sizes run small
13. Adidas Performance Women’s Powerlift.3 W Cross-Trainer Shoe
The Adidas Performance Powerlift 3 features a wide design, which makes it a good option for people with wider feet. The uppers are made with genuine synthetic leather, which should keep your feet light and tightly secured during your workouts. The collar and tongue are generously padded for ankle support. The tongue also prevents the laces of the shoes from exerting too much pressure on your feet, especially when you tighten them with a hook-and-closure strap.
The forefoot is surrounded by perforations which enable flow of air, preventing the build-up of sweat and odors. You can use the Adidas Performance Powerlift 3 for squats, bench-press, deadlifts, and rows. These shoes also feature a die-cut midsole wedge, which provides stability to your feet without adding a lot of weight. The anti-slip outsole in the bottom should provide solid traction on all types of gym surfaces.
One complaint about the Adidas Performance Powerlift 3 is that their sizes run large. However, this isn’t a major deal-breaker as you can always go for one size less than your original.
Pros of the Adidas Performance Women’s Powerlift.3 W Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Great stability
- Good ankle support
- Padded tongue and collar
- Die-cut midsole wedge
- Comfortable
Cons of the Adidas Performance Women’s Powerlift.3 W Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Sizing runs large
14. Adidas Women’s Pureboost X Element
The Adidas Women’s Pureboost X Element is advertised as a running shoe. However, it is more suitable for weightlifting and other similar workouts. These shoes feature high-quality textile uppers, which make them flexible and lightweight. Synthetic wall panels have also been added to the upper parts to keep your foot secure while providing a snug. Despite the solid uppers, these shoes are breathable so you won’t have to worry about sweaty feet and stinky odors.
The Adidas Pureboost X Element is equipped with a sturdy midsole that provides shock absorption, making the shoes comfortable. Moreover, they come with a Stretch Web outsole that provides solid traction on a variety of surfaces including gymnasium floors. If you are looking for a high-quality pair of weightlifting shoes that offer support, stability, and comfort, the Adidas Pureboost X Element is worth considering.
Pros of the Adidas Women’s Pureboost X Element
- Comfortable
- Great support
- Good stability
- Durable construction
- Snug fit
Cons of the Adidas Women’s Pureboost X Element
- Sizes run large
15. Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Power Cross-Trainer Shoe
These cross-trainer shoes from Adidas are designed for general weightlifting and should provide you with a stable foundation while being comfortable on the feet. The toe box of the Crazy Power Cross-Trainer Shoe is quite spacious, which means that your toes will have enough room to splay. The tongue and collar of these shoes are padded for maximum comfort and ankle support. You can tighten the shoes for a customized fit using the laces and hook-and-loop strap. The uppers are made from synthetic materials, which make the shoes feel sturdier and breathable.
The Adidas Performance Crazy Power is equipped with a rubber outsole, which should provide you with solid traction on all types of surfaces. The midsoles of these shoes are designed with Pro-Moderator technology which steadies the heel without increasing the weight of the shoes.
Pros of the Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Power Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Comfortable
- Spacious toe box
- Rubber outsole
- Customized fit
- Stylish
Cons of the Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Power Cross-Trainer Shoe
- Not good for wide feet
- Sizing issues
16. Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer
The Asics Men’s Lift Trainer is another model that should be on your shortlist if you are looking for a comfortable and breathable pair of weightlifting shoes. They can be used for leg press, overheads, front squats, back squats, and other workouts. These shoes are equipped with uppers made of mesh and synthetic leather materials, which makes the shoes breathable and comfortable. The mesh promotes aeration, making sure that your feet remain cool, dry and odor-free.
The Asics Men’s Lift Trainer doesn’t disappoint when it comes to stability and support. They feature a dual-density support system, positioned throughout the surface of the shoes for maximum support and stability. The adjustable hook-and-loop strap runs over lace-up closure and delivers lateral and medial support. These shoes are also equipped with a durable rubber outsole, which provides solid traction and shock absorption. One of the things we like about this pair is that it comes with removable insoles, so you can use your own orthotics.
The Asics Men’s Lift Trainer has received positive reviews from the majority of customers, which makes it an option worth considering.
Pros of the Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer
- Lightweight
- Solid traction
- Good stability
- Removable insoles
- Stylish
- Good value for money
Cons of the Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer
- Sizes run a bit large
17. Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 370
The Inov-8 FastLift 370 can provide you with good flexibility and stability for weightlifting exercises. These shoes are sturdy, lightweight, and comfortable, which is why they have received positive reviews from the majority of customers. They come with an impressive BOA closure system that delivers a customized fit, ensuring that your feet are well-secured for heavyweight workouts. This system makes it easier to tighten or loosen the shoes compared to a traditional lacing system.
The uppers of the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 370 are made with a combination of synthetic leather and mesh, which provides stability and support without compromising on breathability. So your feet should stay dry and sweat-free during those intense workouts. The interior of these shoes features an ultra-soft lining, which further enhances their comfort. The Inov-8 FastLift 370 also employs an external heel cage system, which provides enhanced heel stability.
The TPU midsole of these shoes provides shock absorption, preventing foot pain. These shoes are also equipped with a rubber outsole, which provides solid traction on a variety of surfaces. Overall, the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 370 is a good option for anyone looking for a versatile pair of weightlifting shoes.
Pros of the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 370
- BOA closure system
- Snug fit
- Rubber outsole provides solid traction
- TPU midsole
- Spacious toe box
Cons of the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 370
- Pricier
18. Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlifting II
The Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlifting II comes with a wide range of features to make your lifts stable and powerful. They have a lightweight glove-like fit that should help improve your performance in the gym. The uppers are made with breathable and lightweight canvas with 3-stripes design. This material allows air to flow in and out of the shoes, ensuring that your feet stay cool, fresh, and sweat-free.
Like several other models on this list, the Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlifting features a lace closure with a hook-and-loop strap that allows for a secure fit. The midsole of these shoes is made with TPU, which is lightweight and non-compressible so it should provide your feet with support and comfort. The outsole is made with a rubber compound, so you would get solid traction on a wide range of surfaces.
Pros of the Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlifting II
- Rubber outsole
- TPU midsole
- Lightweight
- Breathable uppers
- Secure fit
Cons of the Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlifting II
- Not too durable
- Expensive
19. Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 335 Weight-Lifting Shoe
The last on our list is another model from Inov-8. The Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 335 is specifically designed to improve your performance during weightlifting exercises and they provide you with a stable platform to lift those dumbbells and barbells. The uppers of these shoes are made with nylon ripstop material with synthetic overlays for comfort and breathability. The nylon ripstop conforms to the shape of your feet while the synthetic overlays provide support.
The Inov-8 FastLift 335 also features removable footbeds, which you can replace for your own specialized orthotics for extra support. The FastLift outsole of these shoes is made with a rubber compound, which provides solid traction on various surfaces including wood, concrete, and rubber. The heel of these shoes is slightly raised for improved ankle support and should provide you with some lift needed for certain weightlifting workouts.
Pros of the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 335 Weight-Lifting Shoe
- Lace and an adjustable hook-and-loop strap for a secure fit
- Rubber outsole
- Removable molded footbeds
- Nylon ripstop uppers with synthetic overlays
- Breathable and comfortable
Cons of the Inov-8 Men’s FastLift 335 Weight-Lifting Shoe
- Not too durable
Final Thoughts
If you want to improve your performance in the gym and lift heavy weights with the right form, pick a pair of weightlifting shoes that you find most suitable. With the right weightlifting footwear, you would see an improvement in your performance and you would be able to perform those intense workouts with greater efficiency to reach your goals.
We hope you find the information provided above helpful. Armed with this knowledge about weightlifting shoes, you should be able to find a pair that suits your needs and your wallet. If you are still struggling to find a suitable pair, we’ll make things even easier for you. If you recall, we mentioned our top picks earlier. Now we’ll elaborate on our top three choices and let you know why the Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 Cross Trainer is the best overall choice, what makes the Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes the best premium footwear, and why we believe that the Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer is the best value offering out of all the products mentioned in the list. If you have already chosen a pair that you want to buy, feel free to skip this section; otherwise, continue reading to select the right weightlifting shoes
Best Overall Choice
The Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 Cross Trainer has everything that you could want from a weightlifting shoe, which makes them the best overall choice footwear. These shoes are made from synthetic leather and allow for maximum comfort and breathability, ensuring that your feet stay dry and cool all the time. The air mesh collar, tongue, and lining make the shoes more breathable and comfortable. The Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 features Adiwear outsole that is extremely durable and helps you maintain a solid grip on the gym floor during your lifts. The die-cut midsole of these shoes is engineered for weightlifting and provides lightweight stability to help enhance your performance during weightlifting workouts. These shoes also feature a traditional lacing system with a hook-and-loop strap, giving you a customized fit.
Premium Product
If you can afford to buy premium weightlifting shoes, we suggest you go with the Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes. These shoes are comfortable, stylish and provide reliable support to your feet. They have a narrower profile compared to the previous model and are designed to provide a secure fit around the midfoot while giving ample room in the forefoot area. The uppers are made with Nike’s Flywire material, which is flexible, lightweight, and quite breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool, dry and sweat-free. The outsole of the Romaleos 3 is made with durable rubber, which is why these shoes are lauded for their ability to grip the floor. This outsole also features Honeycomb TPU plate for stability during weightlifting.
Best Value
If you want a pair of weightlifting shoes that gives you the best bang for your buck, we recommend the Asics Men’s Lift Trainer Cross-Trainer. These shoes can be used for leg press, overheads, front squats, back squats, and other workouts. They are equipped with uppers made of mesh and synthetic leather materials, which makes the shoes breathable and comfortable. The mesh promotes aeration, making sure that your feet remain cool, dry, and odor-free. The Asics Men’s Lift Trainer doesn’t disappoint when it comes to stability and support. They feature a dual-density support system, position throughout the shoes for maximum support and stability. These shoes are also equipped with a durable rubber outsole, which provides solid traction and shock absorption.
Now pick a pair from our list and enjoy lifting heavy weights with confidence. When deciding to buy weightlifting shoes, consider the factors we discussed earlier including comfort, heel height, materials used, outsole, and midsole.
We have provided detailed information on weightlifting shoes but if you are still finding it hard to select a pair or have any questions to ask from us, feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding a pair of shoes that would help improve your performance in the gym.