Coaches Say These Are the Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners

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As a beginner weightlifter, you likely lace up to train in whatever athletic shoes have been sitting in your closet for years. Sure, they’ll do the job and get you through a workout. But the best weightlifting shoes can make a noticeable difference between maintaining stability and improving form.

Established brands for weightlifting shoes like Nike, NOBULL, and Reebok get a lot of attention, but R.A.D.—a small, independent shoe company founded by competitive CrossFit athlete Ben Massey—has quickly entered the stratosphere. R.A.D. One V2 is the successor to the popular R.A.D. and is built with both flexibility and durability in mind.

What truly sets One V2 apart is its versatility. It feels stable and grounded for big lifts like squats and deadlifts, yet transitions seamlessly into high-intensity workouts like CrossFit WODs and conditioning intervals. As someone who spent their first year lifting almost exclusively in Converse, I can confidently say this is a worthwhile upgrade. Read on to see why R.A.D. ONE V2 deserves a spot on your shoe rack and gym bag.

Want the inside scoop on the best fitness gear of the year? Check out the rest of Men’s Journal 2026 Fitness Awards, where we’ve tested everything from adjustable dumbbells and protein powders to cross-training shoes and wearable fitness trackers.

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R.A.D. One V2 Key Features

R.A.D. One V2 shoes are described as "the all-round gym shoe that’s good at everything, and ready for anything." Unlike its predecessor, the R.A.D. One, the V2s place a stronger emphasis on flexibility and durability for running and conditioning while maintaining a solid base for strength work. The shoe is available in 13 different colorways, weighing in at about 12.8 ounces.

The upper uses a highly flexible yet durable engineered mesh that runs from the forefoot through the midfoot, with suede overlays adding structure in high-wear areas. A reinforced toe bumper and extended outsole wrap over the toe and heel, providing added protection. Around the heel, a padded mesh boot with a slight lip helps lock the foot in place without feeling restrictive.

Underfoot, the SwellFoam midsole uses an EVA foam that balances cushioning and stability. With a 6 millimeter heel-to-toe drop, this feature can help beginner lifters achieve better squat depth and torso positioning while still feeling natural during hinging movements and accessory lifts. A removable foam insole allows for minor fit adjustments.

Slipping is a non-issue with these bad boys. The outsole is made entirely of rubber and features a herringbone tread pattern for consistent traction on different flooring surfaces. The wave design wraps and extends up the sides of the shoe to improve stability during lifts.

Pros

• Stable base for weightlifting, offering a planted feel under load while still allowing enough flexibility for dynamic movements.
• Wide toe box improves balance and confidence throughout lifts.
• Offers training versatility, making it suitable for weightlifting, conditioning, plyometrics, and hybrid workouts without needing a wardrobe change.

Cons

• Not rigid enough for advanced Olympic lifters who rely on stiff platforms and higher heel elevation for maximal loads and deep squat positions.
• Less heel elevation than dedicated weightlifting shoes, which may limit comfort and mobility.
• Wave design is hit or miss, depending on colorways. Some athletes appreciate the added stability and protective element, while others find it unnecessary and visually distracting.

Final Verdict

Overall, I'm a big fan of the R.A.D. One V2s. The biggest strength lies in its versatility, which is important for anyone who dabbles in multiple workout modalities. As someone who lifts, runs, and does HIIT workouts, I personally appreciate not needing to rotate between multiple pairs of shoes depending on my workout that day. It feels stable enough for strength work and comfortable during conditioning or more dynamic movements.

The shoe design isn't for everyone, but I think that depends on the colorway you choose. The wave detailing adds a bit of controversial flare while still keeping the shoe fairly minimal. Comfort is another strong point, especially for those with wider feet, and the upper breaks in quickly without feeling sloppy. I’ve also found they don’t show dirt easily, which is a small but appreciated bonus.

At $150, the price is on the higher side compared to other beginner-friendly trainers, but the stability, durability, and all-in-one performance help justify the cost if you want one shoe that can do it all.

Why You Should Trust Me

I’m a health and fitness staff writer for Men’s Journal and previously wrote for Men’s Fitness, covering training trends, workouts, and gear reviews. I’m also an ACE-certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, with experience teaching multiple training modalities, including HIIT and indoor cycling. Along with my career experience, I've been weightlifting for over a decade and have trained in a wide range of shoes.

I personally test all products I review and have spent quality time with countless pieces of fitness equipment, from HYROX shoes to Lagree reformers and watermelon-flavored creatine. My goal is to give practical, experience-driven feedback that helps you decide what’s worth your time and money in the gym, while elevating your workout experience.

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