The Best Weightlifting Shoes in 2024, As Tested by Our Experts

If you’re serious about making strength gains, it can be useful for athletes to swap out the best cross-training shoes in their closets for a pair of weightlifting shoes. Weightlifting shoes can promote a better sense of knee and hip flexion during certain lifts, especially the squat, clean and jerk, and snatch. (1) For athletes that routinely incorporate these lifts into their regimens, the best weightlifting shoes can also promote a heightened sense of security and style.

Like any specialized footwear, though, getting your picks right from the start is more beneficial than not. You’ll need to think about the raised heel and how much elevation is in the shoes themselves, as well as your sense of traction via the outsole, and (of course) your overall comfort. To help you pinpoint your magic weightlifting slipper, we’ve gotten hands-on with a number of quality kicks and consulted with our in-house experts to determine our favorite weightlifting shoes on the market today.

The 8 Best Weightlifting Shoes of 2024

• Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall: Nike Romaleos 4
• Most Stylish Weightlifting Shoes: NOBULL Leather Lifter
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Olympic Weightlifting: Reebok Legacy Lifter III
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet: TYR L-1 Lifter
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners: Nike Savaleos
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Powerlifting: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer
• Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit: Inov-8 Fastlift 360 

How We Tested and Chose the Best Weightlifting Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best weightlifting shoes, we got hands-on with 12 different silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

Heel Height and Elevation

The height of a weightlifting shoe’s heel can greatly influence the range of motion across your hip, knee, and ankle joints during barbell squats and other exercises. (2) As such, finding the ideal setup for your comfort and performance levels is key when selecting a pair of lifters for your gym bag. While some athletes may require the most support possible across the ankle, others may be able to get away with a lower setup provided it doesn’t compromise their in-lift comfort.

On average, you can expect weightlifting shoes to carry a heel height around 19 millimeters or greater, with many of the top-performing profiles in the category hovering around 20 millimeters. Of course, the presence of an elevated heel can be suitable for certain lifts and detrimental for others, so you should take into account how you plan to structure your training as well as your personal preferences when deciding between one pair of shoes over the next.

Lacing and Strapping

Your lacing system can influence how much lockdown you experience over the top of your foot, and when your workout calls for stabilizing or hoisting massive weights overhead, it can help to be secure from the ground up. The picks in this round-up include silhouettes boasting a variety of lacing structures, with some employing just a simple shoelace lattice and others adding a single- or dual-strap system for better lockdown.

Naturally, the more apparatuses at play in this area, the more secure you can feel in a given lift. However, the extra security can pose a problem in terms of unwanted pressure, which can lead to discomfort and even blistering. We did our best to include feedback on how each profile felt during trials, highlighting where a system proved beneficial and where straps or lacing structures were more overkill.

Type of Heel

Unlike some of the best running shoes on the market, you’ll want a sturdier heel that doesn’t showcase a cozy sense of compression when deciding between weightlifting shoes. This compression can actually be detrimental to your lifts, as you’ll be initially squishing through mounds of material before finding that desirable ground contact for upward motion or thrusts.

When it comes to high-quality weightlifting shoes, there are a handful of materials that can be employed for a rock-solid foundation. Below are some quick notes on some of these design elements and what you can expect from a sneaker showcasing these build qualities:

• EVA Heel: Lightweight, somewhat compressible or maneuverable, very durable
• TPU Heel: Lightweight, resistant to compression and abrasion, durable

• Stacked Leather Heel: Throwback look, platform feedback, somewhat compressible
• Wood Heel: Stable, old-school appearance, little to no compression, platform feedback

While some may think it’s profitable to opt for the heel design with the least amount of give, you need to remember that you need to actually wear these weightlifting shoes outside of the lifting platform itself. There’s no sense in wearing a wooden heel if the rest of your training session will be compromised from an uncomfortable underfoot, right? As such, we understand that every athlete can have a subjective take on which heel design is best, so we did our best to include options that cater to multiple tastes and wants in this guide.

Materials

Something to be aware of are the trade-offs that come with certain types of materials. Leather, for example, looks great, but does not breathe as well as fabrics such as textile or mesh. Conversely, using a ton of breathable material can make shoes nice and lightweight with great airflow, but may impact their durability and stability.

When it comes to heels and outsoles, weightlifting shoes tend to be built for stability and traction to help you stick to the platform. They’re meant to make you feel connected to the platform, so don’t expect much forgiveness or a squishy feeling from them.

[Related: The Ultimate Guide to Lifting Shoes]

Design

Design is something that is highly subjective and we try our best not to put too much emphasis on it, but sometimes there are shoes we can all agree just look good — and we’ll point that out. Whether you’re someone who cares about the look of your shoes or simply views them as tools meant to perform a job, the design of weightlifting shoes has come a long way and there are a lot of different looks and options to choose from now.

Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall: Nike Romaleos 4

For athletes wanting the best footwear to take their strength training to new heights, we think the fourth iteration of the Nike Romaleos lineup reign supreme. These sleek squat shoes feature a 20-millimeter heel height, wide outsole design, and rubber tread for a stable base that can upgrade your positioning for back squats and Olympic lifts. Additionally, a dual-strap midfoot lockdown system helps ensure that you’re, well, locked in without any fear of interior foot movement during catches or cleans.

These are my preferred shoes for leg day, as I really feel like how the higher heel allows me to move more efficiently through a squat. Plus, I prefer a heavier shoe for these movements, as it gives me a more grounded sense that my feet aren’t going anywhere on the platform before getting into a descent. I’d rate the overall design at 4 out of 5, though, because wearing these Romaleos 4s through an entire session can leave your steps feeling clunky and tired.

[Related: 6 Reasons You Should Invest In a Pair of Weightlifting Shoes]

From a style perspective, we scored these Nike Olympic weightlifting shoes at 5 out of 5. “This brand just knows how to make a good-looking shoe,” added our tester. “I also like the small easter eggs — like the word ‘Dominate’ embedded in the heel — that give the Romaleos 4s a more premium feel.”

The lockdown in these shoes is also noteworthy thanks to their reliance on both a traditional lacing system and two midfoot straps that cinch in alternate directions. This can help you achieve that secure fit without putting unwanted pressure across a single area. This is a definite plus, too, because of the upper’s more rigid design for better stability during lifts — you don’t want a portion of the upper digging into the top of your foot as you go for a PR snatch attempt.

Finally, while the Romaleos 4s run true to size, you should expect a tighter fit. I scored the fit at 3.5 out of 5, too, given the narrower toe box, which is intended to squeeze your feet into position with little side-to-side give. You do get used to it — you’re not wearing these kicks for every lifting session — but it is a change of pace, even from the brand’s more versatile cross-trainer, the Nike Metcon 9.

Read our full Nike Romaleos 4 Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Most Stylish Weightlifting Shoes: NOBULL Leather Lifter

Sometimes, the best shoes for your lifting ensemble are also the most stylish — if you feel good, you lift good. NOBULL is a brand draped in good looks, most notably from the litany of hues and designs available in the brand’s Trainer stable of training footwear. While the Leather Lifters are only available in one colorway, we still think the aesthetics at play are more than enough to boost PRs (or, at least, your confidence when stepping to the podium).

The entire silhouette features premium-sourced leather across the upper and heel. Additionally, these NOBULL kicks have a leather midsole for better platform feedback, and a stacked leather heel that can offer a nice mix of stability and comfort.

[Related: NOBULL Trainer Review]

Having lifted in these before, I enjoyed how the leather broke in after multiple uses, giving them a unique, weathered look that had a vintage vibe unique to my footprint. You can think of them as a well-worn, timeless pair of dress shoes with an added zest of strength training. As such, I rated the style at 5 out of 5.

Performance-wise, these NOBULL Leather Lifters can also be plenty stable for your traditional back squats and Olympic lifts. I’ve also found no issues with the rubber outsole in terms of grip and traction, scoring it at 4 out of 5. While the tread pattern is more simplified than other liters I’ve tested, you can still achieve a well-grounded stance atop wooden platforms or synthetic home gym flooring.

Be mindful, though, that extended use can lead to some separation between the outsole and midsole, according to some customers. While I’ve yet to experience a similar fate, I can see where the two components could be susceptible to splitting. For this reason, we rated the NOBULL Leather Lifters at 3.75 out of 5 for durability.

Naturally, an all-leather training shoe won’t be as breathable as one constructed from mesh or nylon. “I found these to run incredibly hot, especially during summer lifts or extended sessions in the gym,” added our tester, a certified personal trainer. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little sweat for a boosted sense of style, though, these NOBULL kicks should definitely be on your radar.

Read our full NOBULL Lifters Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Olympic Weightlifting: Reebok Legacy Lifter III

For athletes involved in Olympic weightlifting, a pure pair of Olympic weightlifting shoes are practically a must for your gym bag. With a heavy 22.12-ounce profile, lightweight yet durable 22-millimeter TPU heel, and a sturdy textile upper that can withstand the rigors of these explosive exercises, the Legacy Lifter IIIs from Reebok are our top pick for this specialized training discipline.

Reebok’s Legacy Lifter lineup has been a mainstay in Olympic weight rooms for years thanks to the brand’s attention to detail, but the third iteration has quickly won us over given how rock solid the underfoot is via the compression-resistant heel and tacky rubber outsole for improved grip. 

We rated the stability at 5 out of 5, too, given the multiple lockdown mechanisms over the top of the foot. You have your standard laces in addition to a single midfoot strap, along with Reebok’s Pump technology that can inflate the midfoot for a comfortable sense of pressure in key areas.

[Related: Reebok Legacy Lifters Review]

However, we wouldn’t rely on the Pump tech as a sole means of achieving that locked-in fit needed for heavy Olympic lifting. “It provides a little more security, but not exactly a true lockdown,” says our tester. “I feel like it’s more of a style point or branded gimmick. Thankfully, the strap and lacing are more than enough to achieve that perfect fit when I’m going for a heavy set.”

The durability of the Legacy Lifter IIIs also scored highly in testing at a perfect 5 out of 5. The textile upper proved to be plenty resilient when taking it through the wringer of our typical Olympic regimens. 

Additionally, I’ve owned my personal pair of Legacy Lifter IIIs and they look as good as the day I received them. I wouldn’t expect any blowout or unwanted compression from these shoes in the future, which we hope can provide peace of mind to those wary of the $220 price tag.

When ordering these Reebok lifters, you have five colorways to choose from — a slightly larger offering than other weightlifting shoes. While color choice is subjective, we do recommend ordering a half size up from what you’d typically wear in your normal footwear. Our tester noted that the sizing runs small, which can be a detriment when you’re already expecting a snug fit on the platform.

[Related: 4 Signs You Need a New Pair of Weightlifting Shoes]

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet: TYR L-1 Lifter

Weightlifting shoes often feature a snug fit so as to help ensure you aren’t fighting for foot placement when trying to focus on a movement. However, while the lockdown is improved with this setup, it can limit the footwear’s approachability for wider-footed athletes. The TYR L-1 Lifters, on the other hand can be a solid option for such needs thanks to a unique anatomically designed toe box that offers enough room for added comfort while still promoting a stable underfoot experience.

I’ve trained in these L-1s before and appreciate the unique sensation across my toes. While I don’t have wide feet, I still enjoyed the extra space that allowed for effective toe splaying during heavy squats. Additionally, we rated the stability at 4 out of 5 given the inclusion of a dual-strap midfoot makeup allowing for that premier sense of lockdown.

[Related: How to Do the Back Squat: Learn Form, Variations, and Benefits]

In my experience, though, it’s best to get your fitment via the lacing system as much as possible. There can be some overhang along the straps that can potentially end up under your outsole when walking around the gym or walking out a loaded barbell.

The construction of this L-1 Lifter was also appealing thanks to its perforated faux leather profile. Not only did this thicker textile provide a heightened sense of rigidity, but it also proved to be plenty durable for extended use.

Additionally, we like how TYR included a lasered hole pattern across the toe box, which can help with breathability. Otherwise, these would be rather hot kicks that could leave you with sweat-soaked socks and potential blisters.

We rated the construction at 4 out of 5 given the TPU heel design. At 21 millimeters, it provided a good sense of heel elevation for better dorsiflexion and hinging through our squats and cleans. Plus, the 19.2-ounce shoe weight provided that grounded feeling you desire when stepping onto a platform, and the multiple tread patterns across the outsole gave each stance ample traction and grip.

While I could see the wider toe box interfering with narrow-footed athletes — there may be too much room for stability across dynamic lifts — this TYR L-1 is still a favorite silhouette of mine. 

[Related: Should Non-Olympic Weightlifters Wear Weightlifting Shoes?]

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners: Nike Savaleos

We get it — weightlifting shoes aren’t your normal pair of shoes. The heightened heel, more snug lockdown, and emphasis on stability can make them a little more intimidating than your go-to pair of gym shoes. As such, it can be beneficial to ease into this footwear category with a design that’s a step above your regular cross-trainers yet isn’t as harsh of a change to your underfoot experience. The Savaleos from Nike, in our opinion, are the perfect starter pair for athletes thanks to a less aggressive heel height and a budget-friendly price point.

Unlike other weightlifting shoes that can typically feature a heel-to-toe drop in the realm of 20 millimeters, the Savaleos instead use a 15-millimeter TPU heel for improved ankle mobility. This can be a plus for beginner athletes as the jump is less intense from your normal kicks. 

“I think those wanting the most support for ankle flexion should opt for a higher heel,” according to our tester, a former Olympian. “But for novices, it’s a great introductory shoe.”

[Related: Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners]

In addition to the approachable heel height, we also rated the value of the Nike Savaleos at a perfect 5 out of 5. You can pick up a pair of these beginner-friendly lifters for roughly $125, whereas other Olympic footwear can typically cost you around $200 or more. 

The ergonomics are also a positive for the Nike Savaleos. Our tester rated the shoes at 4.5 out of 5 for the category thanks to their impressive range of motion and worthwhile lockdown across the lacing system and midfoot strap. While they were quick to note that a dual-strap system can provide more security, you can’t expect all the bells and whistles when the pair comes in below $150.

Lastly, our tester had no major qualms regarding stability with these Nike shoes, but did score the Savaleos at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. This slight demerit was largely due to the insole, which felt more responsive underfoot. As a result, our tester felt like they needed to push through the foam in order to achieve a desirably grounded stance.

Read our full Nike Savaleos Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Powerlifting: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

Powerlifters can also benefit from a specialized pair of gym shoes for their craft. However, while the raised heel can be beneficial for squats, the other two major lifts — the bench press and deadlift — aren’t as supported with this design. Plus, swapping shoes in between lifts can be a hassle on meet days. The TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers, though, showcased a flexible, barefoot profile that can be great for achieving the desired footing for heavy pulls and presses while still being comfortable enough for squat PRs.

These DZ-1s are my favorite training sneakers as of late, most notably through the TYRTac outsole that provides excellent traction on the platform. I also felt like I could lock my feet in for better presses, and the flexibility is a major plus in finding that optimal ankle angle on a bench. Even during squats, I didn’t feel any unwanted movement in my feet when pushing through the hole. Overall, I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5.

I also liked how breathable the mesh upper is, especially when wearing these shoes for extended periods. There’s no need to swap them out for other dedicated cross-trainers (unless that’s your preference), making them an efficient addition to your gym bag, too. Naturally, though, Olympic lifters may still desire that raised heel for snatches and clean and jerks, so I conservatively scored the versatility at 3.75 out of 5.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training — Can Lifting Without Shoes Help You Make More Gains?]

In terms of sizing, I recommend opting for a half-size smaller than your typical footwear. This can help you achieve a more snug yet efficient fit that can be ideal when trying to push your PRs to new heights. You don’t want a lot of slop or space, especially when dealing with a shoe profile as flexible as this one.

Finally, the dual-strap system is the lone lockdown mechanism across this TYR profile. While other weightlifting shoes can offer similar structures with the addition of a lacing system, I don’t feel it hinders the DZ-1s. After all, a lacing system would only add to the overall weight, and thus, impact the versatility of these impressive new additions to the training footwear landscape.

[Related: Flat Vs. Heeled Lifting Shoes for Squatting: Choosing What’s Best For You]

Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes

When it comes to in-gym footwear, you often get what you pay for. However, a few wallet-friendly profiles are always likely to sneak through, including these weightlifting shoes from Do-Win. Available via Rogue Fitness for $105, they come in at nearly half the cost of other weightlifting shoes. Despite this more affordable makeup, these Do-Wins don’t skimp when it comes to underfoot performance.

In testing, we rated the stability at 4 out of 5 and appreciated the middle-tier heel height of 19.05 millimeters. While somewhat lower than the 20-millimeter average, it’s still a worthwhile height for improved ankle mobility. “I also liked the grip from the outsole,” noted our tester, a certified personal trainer. “I didn’t experience any slipping or sliding when taking my stance atop an Olympic platform.”

[Related: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

That said, we did feel as if the tread showed premature signs of wear, so we wouldn’t be surprised if replacement orders come sooner rather than later. We rated the durability at 3 out of 5 because of this foreseeable breakdown. 

For less than $110, though, we’re willing to make the sacrifice of a new pair sooner rather than later — you’re still within the realm of what you can expect to pay for a single pair of weightlifting shoes from a different brand.

Additionally, the synthetic leather and nylon mesh upper provide a good blend of rigidity and breathability, allowing you to power through your workouts without any unwanted perspiration. Plus, the dual-strap midfoot and traditional lacing can be great for achieving that locked-in aesthetic. 

We do wish, however, that the straps cinched in alternating directions. This would allow for increased pressure and snugness across both the lateral and medial side of the foot, as opposed to just the outer (lateral) area.

Finally, while some athletes looking for the most ankle mobility possible may want to look for a lifter with a greater heel height, these can still be a good option for most novice and intermediate individuals. Additionally, the Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes can be an excellent accessory for those less prone to performing Olympic lifts within their regimens. Think of them as a convenient yet effective safety net, all for a price that’s plenty approachable.

Read our full Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit: Inov-8 Fastlift 360

While CrossFit athletes have their own shoes for their given discipline, there are still certain exercises and intervals that can benefit from the added heel height and stability that traditional CrossFit shoes can’t deliver. However, you’re likely to lose a few seconds on your WOD if your kicks begin to weigh you down from circuit to circuit. With a lightweight 12.07-ounce frame, the Fastlift 360s from Inov-8 can be the perfect companion for these needs, providing a heightened sense of stability without weighing down your overall wardrobe.

[Related: Inov-8 Releases F-Lite G 300, the “Toughest Training Shoe to Date”]

Admittedly, I’ve had minimal experience with these weightlifting shoes from the Britain-based brand, but I do appreciate the stability underfoot for a variety of lifts. The flat outsole can be great for creating that grounded sensation, and the lightweight build quality can be prime for executing quick foot transfers as you go for a clean and jerk.

However, I’ve found the heel to be somewhat narrow for my liking, and the POWER TRUSS technology does give the component more of a pillared structure overall that can require some added balance. As such, I rated the stability at 4 out of 5 for these lifters.

The Fastlift 360s don’t lack a sense of durability, however. I scored the construction at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the ripstop upper that’s more than capable of tackling your most intense intervals. Additionally, I’ve yet to notice any separation across the outsole, which is great for maintaining an optimal sense of traction when hurriedly rushing into a snatch or weightlifting-oriented circuit.

However, I have noticed that the hook-and-loop system featured across the midfoot strap is finer than other weightlifting shoes I’ve tried. This can potentially lead to some clogged Velcro over time, especially if you regularly train in an environment with ample amounts of dust, chalk, or (in my case) dog hair. It may be best to try and comb through the hook-and-loop system every now and again to ensure your lockdown remains consistent across multiple wears.

Lastly, the Inov-8 Fastlift 360s feature a narrow silhouette that practically constricts your foot into position. While this can be excellent for stability’s sake, it could be a detriment for wider-footed athletes.

[Related: The Best CrossFit Workouts for Beginners to Build Strength and Mental Toughness]

Benefits of Weightlifting Shoes

According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, weightlifting shoes can be beneficial for a number of athletes, especially those focusing on Olympic lifts and the back squat within their given fitness regimens. From improved ankle dorsiflexion, better underfoot stability, and more, below are just a few of our favorite benefits associated with this specialized footwear category.

More Comfortable Back Squat

While some may find the raised heel height to be an awkward sensation at first, this design element is intended to be a perk when it comes to your biomechanics, particularly when it comes to the back squat. 

[Related: 12 Science-Backed Benefits of Squats You Should Know About]

Studies suggest that training in weightlifting shoes can promote a wider range of ankle dorsiflexion, as well as a more upright torso positioning throughout this foundational strength-training movement. (3)(4) Having greater ankle mobility throughout your squat can be beneficial when trying to avoid excessive forward lean, which, in turn, can help alleviate unwanted stress across your lower back.

Additionally, a more upright torso can be great for squats, as this positioning can indicate better control of the weight itself throughout movement. Think about it, if you’re off-kilter either forward or backward, you’re likely to feel less in-control of the barbell, resulting in a compromised range of motion as well as potential setups for injury. 

While it may not seem like a raised heel height can provide this much support in a singular lift, the studies have proven otherwise (and why you’ll rarely see Olympic lifters coming to the podium in anything but true lifting shoes).

Improved Stability

The stability of your footwear can be vital when it comes to moving heavy weights in a dynamic fashion like you’d experience in Olympic exercises like the snatch and clean and jerk. When hoisting the load into a catch position or overhead, your foundation should be rock solid with little room for foot movement within your shoes themselves. 

Given their tighter design, as well as add-ons including midfoot straps and traditional lacing systems, weightlifting shoes can be great for achieving that desirable grounded setup each time you step to the barbell.

[Related: 15 Isometric Exercises for More Core Strength and Full-Body Stability]

Another way that weightlifting shoes can improve your in-training stability is through their wider outsole constructions and tacky tread patterns. While the outsoles — often composed of a rubber component — can be excellent in giving you the traction necessary for PR-level lifts, the wider silhouettes can also bolster your sturdiness by giving you a larger platform to land on and brace against. 

To provide a metaphor: Which tree do you think is more stable? The thin and slender sapling, or the wide-trunked evergreen?

How Much Do Weightlifting Shoes Cost?

Given their more specialized makeup, you can expect to pay a little more for weightlifting shoes than you would your go-to cross-trainers. While the average gym shoe can run athletes roughly $150, the average weightlifting shoe can carry a price tag equivalent to roughly $200 or even more. Below you’ll find a breakdown of all the weightlifting shoes included in this guide, as well as their respective costs.

Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall	Nike Romaleos 4	$200
Most Stylish Weightlifting Shoes	NOBULL Leather Lifter	$249
Best Weightlifting Shoes for Olympic Weightlifting	Reebok Legacy Lifter III	$220
Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet	TYR L-1 Lifter	$200
Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners	Nike Savaleos	$125
Best Weightlifting Shoes for Powerlifting	TYR DZ-1 Barefoot Trainer	$150
Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes	Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes	$105
Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit	Inov-8 Fastlift 360	$190

How to Choose the Best Weightlifting Shoes

When making any purchase, especially a larger one like a new pair of weightlifting shoes, it’s a good idea to consider the options and take inventory of what you’d like to get out of your new equipment. Just like other types of shoes, there are a lot of options on the market and a lot of factors to think about when choosing your next or first pair of weightlifting shoes. Below are some factors we recommend pondering over before adding a high-quality pair of training kicks to your cart.

Heel Height

Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, states, “A good place to start is the heel-to-toe drop. The higher the drop, the more assistance the shoes will provide in terms of ankle dorsiflexion, squat depth, and spinal positioning throughout the lift.” 

Additionally, Capritto notes that weightlifting shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop may be less helpful in heavy dynamic lifts, but can still prove their worth in more versatile workout regimens like CrossFit or general strength training.

In the end, however, you should consider your personal preference and whether a high heel will be a beneficial support system for your lifting form, or a nagging irritant that feels awkward underfoot. Additionally, you can always ease into this experience by initially opting for a lower-heeled design and working your way up to the 20-millimeter profiles often associated with the upper echelon of this footwear category.

[Related: Converse Chuck Taylor Review]

Lockdown Mechanism

Weightlifting shoes should be as stable as possible, and that cannot be accomplished without a proper lockdown sensation over the top of the foot. On average, you can expect a weightlifting shoe to feature a typical shoelace structure, although more and more profiles are also including a hook-and-loop midfoot strap for better security. 

Some can even boast multiple straps along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, helping ensure a compact, snug lockdown with little room for interior movement.

While we’ll always recommend more lockdown systems over less, designs can become convoluted at times, leading to unwanted pressure points that can compromise the overall comfort of the lifting shoe. Think about your personal comfort preferences and desired lockdown aesthetic.

[Related: Pay Attention to Your Foot and Ankle Mobility: Your Lifts Will Thank You For It]

Toe Box Design

To accentuate this sense of stability and lockdown, you’ll often find that weightlifting shoes feature a narrower interior than other training sneakers. This is to ensure that there’s as little room as possible for your foot to move as you work through dynamic movements like the snatch and clean and jerk. 

However, while there are perks to this tighter design, it can be perceived as uncomfortable for some, especially those with wider feet. Think about the shape of your feet and look for a weightlifting shoe that can accommodate your personal footprint best.

Upper Construction

Your weightlifting shoe’s upper can greatly influence your in-gym experience. If it’s too flexible, you can run the risk of shifting your foot placement within the shoe with each aggressive movement. If it’s too rigid, you may be setting yourself up for hot spots and a lack of breathability. The best weightlifting shoes bring together both worlds for a fitment that’s stable, comfortable, durable, and (above all else) looks damn good in a gym setting.

Final Word

While these weightlifting shoes each have their strengths and weaknesses, one key thing to remember when buying any pair of shoes is your overall comfort. We can talk about the heel height, outsole tread pattern, and all the other available features, but if your feet hurt when you wear them, then they aren’t the right shoe for you — and you probably won’t be wearing them much.

It’s worth thinking about your sport, body, and budget before buying a pair of high-quality lifting shoes. Chat to your friends if they have lifting shoes, and try to buy from a retailer that has a good return policy so you don’t have to worry about sending them back for a different size or model. Once you have that perfect pair, it’s time to let the PRs roll.

FAQs

References

1. Legg, H. S., Glaister, M., Cleather, D. J., & Goodwin, J. E. (2016). The effect of weightlifting shoes on the kinetics and kinematics of the back squat. Journal of Sports Sciences, 35(5), 508–515. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27096286/
2. Lu, Z., Li, X., Xuan, R., Song, Y., Bíró, I., Liang, M., & Gu, Y. (2022). Effect of heel lift insoles on lower extremity muscle activation and joint work during barbell squats. Bioengineering, 9(7), 301. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312299/
3. Sato, K., Fortenbaugh, D., & Hydock, D. S. (2012). Kinematic changes using weightlifting shoes on barbell back squat. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 26(1), 28–33. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22201687/
4. Lee, S.-P., Gillis, C. B., Ibarra, J. J., Oldroyd, D. F., & Zane, R. S. (2019). Heel-raised foot posture does not affect trunk and lower extremity biomechanics during a barbell back squat in recreational weight lifters. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 33(3), 606–614. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30789547/