Best weightlifting shoes: trainers for squats, cross training and deadlifts
ANYONE who regularly does compound exercises like squats or deadlifts will know the stress and pressure they can put on the feet.
Common complaints include athlete’s foot, stress fractures and muscle strains, and these are not always caused by improper methods or pushing yourself too hard. Quite often, it’s down to wearing the wrong shoes.
It stands to reason that anyone who’s not a dedicated weightlifter will be wearing gym trainers or running shoes while having a go at the plates.
These types of shoes are generally cushioned, which is not what you want in weightlifting shoes – you’re after traction, stability and a pair that reacts smoothly to the concentrated downward force towards the ground.
The best weightlifting shoe will fit securely, with dense heels at a short height (they shouldn’t be completely flat), a stable arch built into the sole to keep your foot level, with lacing that goes all the way down to toes to avoid any chance of tripping.
We’ve rounded up the best weightlifting shoes around to help give you just the right lift.
This article and featured products have been independently chosen by Sun journalists. It contains links which are ads, and if you click a link and buy a product we will earn revenue.
1. Best cheap weightlifting shoes
Since these shoes are specialised, they can often come with a hefty price tag. This is good news for your gains and bad news for your wallet. A good place to start would be the Adidas Powerlift 3.1, as they are both affordable and effective.
The synthetic leather upper offers support and durability, while the mesh surrounding this and the tongue allows your feet to breath. These are adjusted using laces and one strap, so those looking for better control might need to splash a bit more cash.
- (AD) Powerlift 3.1, adidas, between £45 – £99 on Amazon – buy here
2. Best weightlifting shoes for women
There are few women’s weightlifting shoes as trusted as the Nike Romaleos 3 XD. The shoe is designed to bend with your foot and the strap allows some adjustment before your big lifts.
In the heel, there’s a honeycomb-patterned plate designed for stability, especially good for squats. The shoes are unisex, so are available for men too.
- Nike Romaleos 3 XD for £118.47 on Nike – buy here
3. Best all-round shoes for weightlifting
The Reebok Men’s Lifter Pr Fitness shoes are great for many reasons, but their durability is probably the biggest draw card. The toe is made from leather, which isn’t just durable, but offers amazing protection.
An anti-friction lining prevents slips, allowing you to get a better grip when lifting. The shoe uses laces and a single strap to tighten around your foot.
- (AD) Reebok Men’s Lifter Pr Fitness Shoes between £94.32 and £309.92 on Amazon – buy here
4. Best weightlifting shoe for flat feet
Flat feet often pose an issue while exercising as most shoes are developed with an arch in mind. However, the Inov8 Fastlift 400 BOA manages to provide a secure fit while being flexible enough for those with flat feet.
The unique BOA strap allows for quick adjustments on the fly. Yet its most valuable feature is the heel cage and power truss technology, which provides stability across the base of the shoe.
- (AD) Inov8 Fastlift 400 BOA Weightlifting Shoes for £96.98 on Amazon – buy here
5. Best weightlifting shoe for runners
It’s not recommended you run in most weightlifting shoes, as they are bulky and won’t soften the impact on your joints. But if like many gym goers, you do a bit of cardio (and don’t want to carry two pairs of shoes) then the Nike Free X Metcon 2 is the best bet.
The midfoot cage locks the foot but allows movement for when you’re running, while foam carrier protects against impact without sacrificing stability.
- Nike Free X Metcon 2 for £104.95 on Nike – buy here
6. Best shoes for powerlifters and hardcore lifters
Powerlifters (as well as people who take things seriously) struggle to find shoes that work for them, but the Legacylifter changes that. The unique heel design are the perfect shape for powerlifters, assisted by lateral support that removes pressure from your back.
The outsole is made of high abrasion rubber, which guarantees a level of durability.
- Reebok Men’s Legacylifter Multisport Indoor shoes for £104 on Amazon – buy here
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This article and any featured products have been independently chosen by The Sun journalists. All recommendations within the article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click a link and buy a product we may earn revenue: this helps to support The Sun, and in no way affects our recommendations.