Are you tired of searching high and low for the best lifting shoes? Look no further! We have scoured the market to bring you the ultimate guide to the top picks in weightlifting footwear. Whether you're a man or woman, we have got you covered with the Reebok Nano X1 Women's Training Shoes and the Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men. But we didn't stop there! We'll also reveal the top options for durability and introduce you to the Under Armour Project Rock 5 Training Shoes and the Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo. So, kick off those old sneakers and get ready to discover the best lifting shoes that will elevate your training to new heights.
Reebok Nano X1 Women's Training Shoes
According to Martin, these Reebok Nano X1 shoes are her favorites for teaching body pump classes. Nano advocates love the wider toe box that prevents squished toes. Certified personal trainer and online coach, Paige Kumpf, says it allows toes to stabilize without constraint. The Nanos also offer a durable upper that won't fray during rope climbs, as well as some forefoot padding to cushion the blows in a HIIT class.
$135 at Reebok
From at Amazon
Best Weightlifting Shoe Overall
When it comes to the best weightlifting shoe, our opinion is based on a combination of comfort, stability, affordability, and quality materials. We prioritized shoes with good breathability for a comfortable workout session, especially in a hot garage gym like ours. The Nike Romaleos 4 checks all these boxes and looks great as well.
Nike Romaleos 4
Nike is renowned for its high-quality weightlifting shoes, and the Romaleos 4 is no exception. These shoes feature a 20mm heel for better positioning and dual lockdown straps for maximum support. The wide, flat outsole provides stability, and the rigid midsole optimizes power transfer during explosive lifting. The redesigned Romaleos 4 also has a wider heel with a unique rubber sole pattern for improved platform feel and traction. For comfort, Nike added extra padding to the shoe collar. Available in white, black, orange, and special edition hyper violet.
Who Should Buy Nike Romaleos 4
- Weightlifters looking for a durable and reliable shoe for heavy, everyday use.
- Individuals who need a higher heel for deep squats, as the Romaleos 4 offers a 0.78-inch heel height.
- Athletes in search of maximum support, thanks to the dual leather lockdown straps that enhance stability.
Who Shouldn't Buy Nike Romaleos 4
- People who prefer weightlifting shoes with minimal heel height, as the Romaleos 4 has a taller heel.
- Individuals on a tight budget, as there are cheaper options available, although they may compromise on quality.
- Athletes who prefer lighter weightlifting shoes, as the Romaleos 4 weighs 20.1 ounces at size 10.
The Nike Romaleos 4 may be one of the more expensive weightlifting shoes, but they are worth it. Made with high-quality materials like leather and textile, these shoes offer extra padding for comfort during long workouts. They are favored by the best weightlifters in the world for a reason.
Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men
The biomechanics of men and women differ in the squat and olympic lifts, so the ideal weightlifting shoes can vary between genders. Men also tend to have less flexibility compared to women. Choosing the right pair of weightlifting shoes can greatly improve your lifting technique and reduce strain on the body. Our top pick for best weightlifting shoes for men provides the necessary support in a design that feels more like regular sneakers.
Adidas Powerlift 4
The Adidas Powerlift 4 shoes combine the comfort of sneakers with the functionality of weightlifting shoes. They offer both style and durability during tough weightlifting workouts. These lightweight shoes promote a connected platform feel, making them perfect for split-jerks or heavy snatches. The redesign made them narrower, so individuals with wide feet may prefer other options. The Powerlift 4 also features lightweight and breathable materials, along with a flexible toe box. The lockdown strap placement allows for flexibility in the forefoot area, enhancing performance during split-jerks.
Who Should Buy Adidas Powerlift 4
- Athletes with narrower feet will find these shoes better suited to their foot shape.
- Lifters who value comfort and style will appreciate that these shoes feel like everyday sneakers.
- Individuals looking for lightweight weightlifting shoes, as these are made with a lightweight canvas upper.
Who Shouldn't Buy Adidas Powerlift 4
- Athletes in need of weightlifting shoes with a tall heel, as the Powerlift 4 has a lower effective heel height.
- Individuals who prefer two lockdown straps for extra security, as these shoes only have one strap.
- Lifters with wide feet should explore other options, as these shoes are designed for narrower feet.
The Adidas Powerlift 4 was designed with both comfort and form in mind. The shoe's open forefoot design and flexible toe box provide flexibility and a connected platform feel. These lightweight and breathable shoes prevent unnecessary fatigue. When ordering, it is recommended to size up half a size, although a full size may be necessary for those with wider feet.
Under Armour Project Rock 5 Training Shoes
The Project Rock 5 Training Shoes, designed by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson himself, are exceptionally sturdy and reliable. Despite their wide fit, they provide excellent support and stability. Under Armour has incorporated a heel-to-midfoot strap to secure your heel while still allowing your forefoot flexibility. The plush ankle collar offers comfort without compromising ground feel. According to Connor Saeli, co-founder of Waterboy, a fitness hydration company, these shoes are not only comfortable but also rare to find in fitness-focused footwear.
The Primal 2 sneakers by Lems offer a minimalist and flexible design, making them the lightest option on this list. These shoes are ideal for unilateral lower body movements, which require plantar flexion. Despite the wider fit, the zero-drop design ensures a stable platform for lifting. Additionally, they are vegan-friendly, including the laces and glue, ensuring no animal cruelty concerns.
As an experienced weightlifter and gym enthusiast for nearly 15 years, I rely on the Floral Trainers. With their low stack height and exceptional ground feel, these sneakers provide stability and support. NoBull has used a durable abrasion-resistant fabric that can endure tough workouts. They do feel slightly restrictive at first, but the real appeal is the beautiful floral pattern on the outsole.
The Prio Neo sneakers from Xero Shoes offer flexibility and a minimalist feel similar to the Vibram FiveFingers. Although not as lightweight, they offer excellent ground feel and traction on slippery surfaces. These sneakers are suitable for both gym workouts and everyday use. According to Martin, they are perfect for individuals who engage in both Body Pump classes and squat rack training.
$100 at Xero Shoes
$100 at Amazon
$110 at REI
Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo
If you require more toe spread than a traditional toe box can provide, the KMD Evos are a great choice. With only 6 millimeters of EVA foam, these FiveFingers offer exceptional stability and grip when lifting heavy loads. The grippy outsole prevents sliding, and the quick-lace system ensures a secure fit. Trey Sermon, running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, who struggles with plantar fasciitis, finds FiveFingers essential for strengthening his feet.
Durability
Weightlifting shoes can be pricey, so it's important to invest in a durable pair to avoid frequent replacements. A durable shoe not only lasts longer but also provides better foot protection during lifting.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best lifting shoes, the Reebok Nano X1 Women's Training Shoes and the Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men are at the top of the game. With their exceptional support, stability, and comfort, they are the go-to choices for athletes of all levels. However, if you're looking for a unique and alternative option, the Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo provides a barefoot feel while still offering durability and grip. Whether you're a seasoned weightlifter or just starting out, investing in a pair of quality lifting shoes will undoubtedly enhance your performance and keep you in the game for years to come.
