As crucial as your dedication and technique is, nothing is more crucial than a pair of the best men's weightlifting shoes. When lifting, shoes become more than just an accessory; it's a tool that enhances support, stability and power. All this makes the quest for the best weightlifting shoes an essential pursuit.
Why is it important to invest in a good pair of weightlifting shoes?
Buying a great pair of weightlifting shoes is essential for a few reasons, each of which directly impacts your performance, safety and overall training experience.
Stability and support: Some weightlifting shoes are engineered with a sturdy, non-compressible sole that provides a stable platform for lifting heavy weights. This stability minimises any unnecessary movement and will allow you to exert maximum force during lifts, which results in not only an improved form, but also better performance.
Promotes better lifting technique: Weightlifting shoes may also have a raised heel to increase ankle movement and allows you to keep an upright torso while squatting or performing other lifts. Your shoes can affect your overall biomechanics, so the right shoes can lead to a better technique and increased strength gains.
The best men's weightlifting shoes at a glance:
• Best overall men's weightlifting shoes: Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 Shoes - View on Amazon UK
• Best men's weightlifting shoes for comfort: Nordic Lifting Weightlifting Shoes - View on Amazon UK
• Best mens' weightlifting shoes for rock-solid stability: Nike Romaleos 4 Weightlifting Shoes - View on Nike
Safety: Weightlifting can be a dangerous type of exercise, so proper footwear is always advised. Specific weightlifting shoes minimise the likelihood of your ankle rolling or slipping, providing a secure foundation during your sessions.
Greater power transfer: The solid base of weightlifting shoes enhances the transfer of power from your legs to the weight, allowing you to lift more efficiently and effectively.
Versatility: Although weightlifting shoes are mainly used for lifting, it doesn't just end there. This type of shoes can also be used for squats, deadlifting and other strength training exercises.
We're here to explore the world of weightlifting footwear, finding the top contenders that have earned the title of the best. You could be a powerlifter, Olympic lifter or simple someone dedicated to working on their physical power, regardless these shoes are your ticket to vamping up your training and achieving new PB's in strength and performance.
The best men's weightlifting shoes
Best overall men's weightlifting shoes
If you're looking to explore the world of Olympic weightlifting, your top choice should undoubtedly be the Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3 shoes. Its shoes are meticulously engineered to deliver unparalleled stability and ground contact, even during the most demanding lifts. Featuring an elevated heel and a high-density midsole, you're guaranteed unwavering support.
The canvas upper, purposefully created for long-term use, incorporates 50 percent recycled materials, catering to environmentally-conscious weightlifters. Furthermore, the outsole, crafted from specialised rubber, firmly secures your feet to the ground, providing that sought-after stability that's essential for conquering heavy lifts.
Pros
- Canvas upper featuring a hook-and-look instep strap for a snug fit
- Locked-down feel for stability
- Made out of 50 percent recycled material
Cons
- Large heel-to-toe drop (33mm), which makes the shoes less versatile for other exercises like cardio
| Colours | White, Black |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 33mm |
| Sizes | UK 3-15 |
- Customer review: "I got the Adipower trainers to help with my squat. These are very comfortable and the bottom of the shoe is very flat and grippy to help stabilise my feet. I was having issues with my feet sliding around. The Adipower stopped that. These helped break my plateau and I was able to squat 295 lbs for a 3x5. The make and material are noticeably high quality.
"The heel lift is very high so they are hard to walk in, so I can only use them for squats and then change shoes after. I do recommend these for committed weightlifters."
Best men's weightlifting shoes for comfort
To give you the perfect stability and help you with generating optimal force during exercises like squats and deadlifts, Nordic Lifting's Weightlifting Shoes feature an elevated heel measuring 35mm. With a budget-friendly price tag and a strong focus on attributes essential to weightlifting, Nordic Lifting's footwear has become a favoured option among athletes seeking to elevate their lifting performance without straining their wallets.
Pros
- Stable rubber sole that still allows for movement and flexibility
- Versatile design meaning the shoes can be worn for cardio exercises too
- Velcro closure and reinforced stitching for longevity
Cons
- If you're a man with small feet, this option might not be for you as the sizing starts at a UK 7
| Colours | Black, White |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 35mm |
| Sizes | UK 7-12 |
- Customer review: "Being able to plant your heels during a squat or deadlift is a given. Bought a pair of Nordic Lifting Weightlifting Shoes to try them out in one of those gyms where you don’t know when the floor was last cleaned. Honestly, best purchase I have made. The Velcro strap over the laces really locks the shoe into place. The thin, flat sole allows proper form with a slight flex on the ball of the foot for those calf raises (don’t skip leg day). Then to top it off increased ankle support without obscuring full range of motion.
"Definitely going to see how long this pair last me and maybe pick another colour for my next pair. You won’t regret getting a pair."
Best men's weightlifting shoes for rock-solid stability
The Nike Romaleos 4 are another great option for serious lifters. Its shoes feature a rigid midsole that enhances stability and support without adding excessive weight. Not only this but it enables optimal power transfer from the ground for an impressive lift-off. The wide, flat outsole delivers a rock-solid base for lifting, and the adjustable strap makes for a secure fit. It's clear the Romaleos 4 offers a blend of flexibility and rigidity, making them suitable for various lifts, from squats to snatches.
Pros
- Wide straps over the laces for a snug fit
- Rigid midsole and heel lift to allow optimal power transfer from the ground to support your movements
- Wide heel for stability and rubber tread for traction
Cons
- The fit runs small so it's recommended to size up
| Colours | Black, White |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 20mm |
| Sizes | UK 2-17 |
- Customer review: "I used the Nike Romaleos 4's for the first time today when doing some heavy squats. I’ve got to say the slight elevation in the heel does the world of good, having being use to lifting with just socks on. The overall look is lovely and they definitely improve my lifts. Can’t wait to try them out more. I am glad I sized up by 0.5 as my usual size wouldn’t have fitted."
Best barefoot men's weightlifting shoes
In the realm of barefoot trainers, the VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Lite III stands out as an exceptional choice. Its trainers are made to offer lightweight flexibility, as well as a stable platform thanks to their zero-drop sole design. What makes its trainers such a popular choice for weightlifting is the ultra-thin sole, which gives better sensory feedback than your conventional gym trainers. For those aiming to fortify their foot muscles and use biomechanics to their lifting advantage, we'd recommend this barefoot shoe.
Pros
- Lightweight design to prevent foot fatigue (232g in a men's UK size 8)
- Performance Insole made of 98% recycled PU foam to help reduce waste
- Wide fit to allow for healthy foot spread and stability
Cons
- Transitioning to barefoot trainers should be done gradually, as the barefoot feel may not be for everyone
- Extremely low heel-to-toe drop (0.8mm)
| Colours | White, Grey, Green, Red, Black |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0.8mm |
| Sizes | UK 3-14 |
- Customer review: "I am extremely happy with these VIVOBAREFOOT shoes, they fit well, and are the best shoes I have ever bought. I have swollen feet and legs due to the tablets I take after a operation I had to have, and theses shoes helped ease the pain and swelling in my feet and legs.
"I highly recommend Vivo barefoot to anyone having trouble with swelling, and aching legs, because these shoes have made a big difference in my life. I am now able to walk longer, and go further, without having to sit down to rest my aching legs."
Best smart men's weightlifting shoes
The Adidas Men's Powerlift 4 Cross Trainer is a game-changer for offering exceptional support and stability. The shoe's signature feature is its sturdy and high-density midsole, which provides excellent power transfer and helps maintain proper form during lifts. With a breathable canvas upper, it keeps your feet cool and comfortable even during intense workouts. Additionally, the wide, flat sole ensures a secure fit and optimal ground contact.
Pros
- Die-cut wedge midsole for stability
- Wide midfoot strap for a locked-in and snug feel
- Durable canvas supper which allows your toes to flex naturally
Cons
- Some individuals said the shoes are little narrow
| Colours | Various colours available including: White, Black, Blue, Grey |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10mm |
| Sizes | UK 3.5-18 |
- Customer review: "A good quality Adidas shoe that looks smart. This has really helped with my squats keeping my knees in position. This has also helped with my deadlift as I normally take my shoes off but now I keep them on. I wear them for every session. Nice and comfortable."
Best flat men's weightlifting shoes
Converse's are sometimes used for weightlifting by some individuals because they have a flat non-compressible sole that provides a stable base for lifting. The flat sole helps in maintaining proper form during exercises like squats and deadlifts, as it decreases the risk of instability. Also, Converse's have a low heel-to-toe drop, which is great for lifters who gravitate towards a more grounded feel during workouts. On top of this, its shoes are an affordable option for lifters on a budget.
Pros
- Zero-drop shoe to create a stable, flat platform for weightlifting
- Well-known brand for durability, so you can get wear after wear out of them
- Versatile - can be used for the gym as well as everyday use
Cons
- Converse are often heavier than the shoes typically made for weightlifting
| Colours | Black, White, Red, Navy blue, Charcoal |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 |
| Sizes | UK 3-18 |
- Customer review: "Perfect, so cute and so good for gym. So comfy."
FAQs
Is it okay to lift in flat shoes?
Lifting in flat shoes is not only okay but is sometimes preferred by many elite strength athletes, including legends like Eddie Hall and Brian Shaw. Flat shoes, such as Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars, Nike Jordans or weightlifting shoes with a small heel-to-toe drop, offer a stable and grounded platform for lifting heavy weights. They promote a better force transmission, allowing lifters to maintain the proper form and leverage during exercises like squats and deadlifts.
Eddie Hall, the former World's Strongest Man, is known for his preference for flat shoes when lifting massive weights, proving their role in maintaining stability and minimising any injury risks. Brian Shaw, another professional strongman, also opts for flat footwear in his training regime, and has spoken about their reliability in maximising his lifting potential.
Ultimately, the choice of your own footwear should align with your lifting style and preferences, but the effectiveness of flat shoes in lifting heavy loads is well-backed by these two giants in strength sports.
Does it matter what shoes I deadlift in?
The pair of shoes you choose to deadlift in does matter. While you can technically deadlift in a variety of footwear, including running shoes or even barefoot, it's important to consider your safety. Often, people prefer a shoe with a flat, non-compressible sole, like Converses for completing deadlifts. This is because they offer a sturdy base, which assists you with maintaining proper form and leverage while lifting heavy weights.
For exercises like squats, the raised heel found in some weightlifting shoes may be more beneficial. However, the most important thing is your shoes provide a solid and stable foundation and align with your lifting style.
Why do weightlifting shoes often have a raised heel?
The raised heel design offers several advantages for weightlifters, for example it promotes better ankle mobility as it allows lifters to achieve a deeper squat position. This improved biomechanics is particularly useful for exercises like the snatch and clean and jerk in Olympic weightlifting. Continually, the raised heel shifts the individual's centre of gravity slightly forward, facilitating better weight distribution and therefore balance. So, for precise positioning and mobility, a weightlifting shoe with a raised heel is an excellent choice.
Gemma Lavers is a fitness writer for What's The Best. When she’s not travelling or writing, Gemma loves spending her weekend completing home workouts, or attending yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes.
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