5 Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men (2024 Updated)

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: November 19, 2024
FACT CHECKED by Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC
We personally test every product featured in our reviews and guides. By ordering products anonymously and getting a group of independent testers, we are able to get first-hand experience and provide data-driven recommendations. Learn more.

Weightlifting puts tremendous stress and strain on your lower body as your feet and legs struggle to maintain a balanced and stable position.

As a health and performance coach, I know that any instability runs through your pelvis, lower back, and upper body. It's a tenuous situation and one that can lead to serious injury if something goes wrong.

Weightlifting shoes are the best way to ensure your lift always has a stable foundation.

As a result of years of study, trial, and error, below we recommend the best weightlifting shoes for men to help you maintain that stability and keep you safe while lifting.

The Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men

Editor's Choice
Adidas Men's Adipower
Adidas Men's Adipower
Rated 4.9/5
Check Current Price
2nd Best Choice
Adidas Men's Powerlift 3.1
Adidas Men's Powerlift 3.1
Rated 4.8/5
Check Current Price
3rd Best Choice
Nike Romaleos 3 Mens
Nike Romaleos 3 Mens
Rated 4.8/5
Check Current Price

Our Top Weightlifting Shoes for Men (December 2024)

1 - Adidas Men's Adipower (Best Overall & Cheapest)

Rated 4.9/5
5.0
Durability
4.6
Price
5.0
Quality
5.0
User Ratings
5.0
Product Effectiveness
5.0
Comfort
Adidas Men's Adipower
  • - Heel Height : 20 mm
  • - Midsole : TPU provides stability
  • - Upper : Genuine leather for a firm fit
  • - Ventilation : Well-ventilated
  • - Closure : Velcro strap for lateral stability

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • TPU midsole provides strong, stable positioning
  • Genuine leather upper cradles your feet firmly
  • The shoe is well vented to prevent overheating
  • The Velcro strap provides intense lateral stability

Cons

  • They’re expensive

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Advanced weightlifters
  • Those needing superior stability

Who is it not for?

  • People on a tight budget

Final Verdict

Offers excellent stability and quality, perfect for those aiming to perform at the highest level. Its high cost is justified by durability and advanced features.

The Adidas Men’s Adipower has been widely considered the best weightlifting shoe for some time, and until someone comes along with a better product, that's not going to change.

According to our tests, they're beautifully balanced, provide unparalleled stability, last for years and will serve you well regardless of which type of lifting you're engaged in.

The moderate heel lift of 20 mm is an ideal middle ground that accommodates lifters of all different heights while the genuine leather upper holds your feet firmly without pinching.

They're going to cost more than some others, but you'll realize quickly that it's money well spent because they really are the best lifting shoes out there.

2 - Adidas Men's Powerlift 3.1

Rated 4.8/5
4.9
Durability
4.7
Price
4.8
Quality
4.8
User Ratings
4.8
Product Effectiveness
4.7
Comfort
Adidas Men's Powerlift 3.1
  • - Heel Height : Lower to prevent forward falling
  • - Heel Material : High-density EVA
  • - Closure : Insole strap for lateral stability
  • - Price : Moderate

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lower heel ensures you won’t be falling forward on deadlifts
  • The insole strap locks in lateral stability
  • High-quality powerlifter shoes at a moderate price

Cons

  • EVA might not cut it for elite lifters

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Powerlifters needing lateral stability
  • Those seeking a moderate heel height

Who is it not for?

  • Elite lifters

Final Verdict

Great choice for powerlifters on a budget who need stability. Its EVA heel may not meet the needs of serious competitors seeking elite-level performance.

Adidas got in on the ground floor of the business and has been producing the majority of professional-grade weightlifting shoes for years, at least according to one of the publications found on the ResearchGate website [1].

They take the sport and the design of appropriate footwear for the sport seriously, and it shows in products like the Adipower, the Men's Powerlift 3.1, which completely overpowers popular Reebok Legacy Lifter II.

Our tests indicate that this is a shoe that's every bit as handsome as it is effective.

The heel is a bit lower than the Adipower in order to accommodate the unique logistical needs of the powerlifter, and the high-density EVA heel ensures all parts of the foot stay where you plant them for the duration [2].

They're also about half the price of the Adipower, which makes them an affordable alternative.

3 - Nike Romaleos 3 Mens (Most Comfortable)

Rated 4.8/5
4.7
Durability
4.8
Price
4.8
Quality
4.7
User Ratings
4.8
Product Effectiveness
4.9
Comfort
Nike Romaleos 3 Mens
  • - Ventilation : Prevents overheating
  • - Compatibility : For straight lifting and CrossFit
  • - Profile : Subtle heel lift and broader base
  • - Design : Aesthetic and breathable

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Very comfortable for most types of lifting
  • Well vented to prevent overheating
  • Can be used for straight up lifting or CrossFit

Cons

  • The narrow profile can be a bit constricting

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Multi-discipline lifters
  • Those valuing comfort and breathability

Who is it not for?

  • Individuals with wide feet

Final Verdict

Combines versatility with comfort, making it suitable for multiple types of lifting. However, its narrow fit might not accommodate those with broader feet.

Nike was relatively late to the weightlifting game, but they've wasted little time making up for their lack of experience.

Based on my experience, the Romaleos 3 is one of the best lifting shoes and comes very close to the Adipower in terms of providing the necessary stability.

It also surpasses its better-known competitor in the areas of breathability and, yes, aesthetics [3].

While Romaleos aren't designed to be the best CrossFit lifting shoes per se, the more subtle heel lift and broader base, along with their ability to hold you firm even when the lateral stresses are intense means that they're finding a lot of adherents in the box.

They're also significantly less expensive than some of the other squat shoes out there, making them the ideal choice for those where cost is more of an issue.

4 - Inov-8 Men's Fastlift 325 (Best Stability & Ankle Support)

Rated 4.6/5
4.6
Durability
4.5
Price
4.7
Quality
4.5
User Ratings
4.6
Product Effectiveness
4.7
Comfort
Inov-8 Men's Fastlift 325
  • - Ankle Support : High
  • - Stability : Impressive for non-brute lifts
  • - Strap : Holds the foot comfortably
  • - Design : Versatile, a hybrid of CrossFit and weightlifting

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Plenty of ankle support for CrossFitters
  • Impressive stability during non-brute force lifts
  • The insole strap holds the foot firmly yet comfortably

Cons

  • Really good at lots of things, not great at any.

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • CrossFit enthusiasts needing ankle support
  • Those looking for versatile shoes

Who is it not for?

  • Powerlifters

Final Verdict

Ideal for mixed workouts that demand both stability and mobility. Although versatile, it may lack the specialized features required for maximum performance in pure powerlifting.

Some might see the design of the Inov-8 Men’s Fastlift 325 as a gimmick and we might be tempted to agree if they weren't such a great weightlifting shoes, at least according to our test results.

They will serve you well for most types of lifting, with the only caveat is that you may lose some performance edge on deadlifts.

Inov-8 is marketing the 325 as a CrossFit/weightlifting hybrid of sorts, and there's no doubt devotees of the box will find a lot to like here.

As with most products that try to be all things to all people, however, it winds up falling just a tad short of being the best at anything. Still, given the price point, comfort and versatility it's hard not to recommend it for what it is.

5 - Adidas Men's Leistung 16 (Best Ventilated)

Rated 4.5/5
4.5
Durability
4.4
Price
4.6
Quality
4.4
User Ratings
4.5
Product Effectiveness
4.5
Comfort
Adidas Men's Leistung 16
  • - Closure System : Boa, micro-adjustable
  • - Upper : Woven for comfort and breathability
  • - Grip : Ironclad on the platform
  • - Heel Height : 25 mm

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • The Boa, micro-adjustable closure system is a revelation
  • Provides an ironclad grip of the platform
  • Woven upper is lightweight, cool and comfortable
  • Ugly but still one of the best weightlifting shoes for men

Cons

  • A face only a mother could love

Who is it for?

Who is it for?

  • Lifters prioritizing ventilation
  • Those seeking customizable closure

Who is it not for?

  • Aesthetic-conscious lifters

Final Verdict

Provides great ventilation and secure closure for serious lifters. However, the less visually appealing design may deter those who care about aesthetics in their footwear.

Based on our tests, the Leistung 16 provides maybe the firmest hold of almost any weightlifting shoe and manages to do so without ever pinching or crimping your foot, it's comfortable as well as functional.

Stability is impressive, and the 25mm heel elevation is right in line with the best lifting shoes, just as suggested by one of the studies found on ResearchGate [4]. There's no horizontal slide during your lift, and it is well-ventilated.

In addition, the Boa Closure System gives you the kind of consistent hold laces can only dream about. If only it all came in a prettier package, but if you’re after function over fashion this could be the shoe for you.

How We Tested Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men

As a health and performance coach with a focus on strength training, I understand the critical role that the right footwear plays in weightlifting.

To evaluate the best weightlifting shoes for men, I combined my professional experience with extensive research, assessing each pair based on several key criteria.

Here's a detailed look at our testing methodology:.

Durability

Durability is paramount in weightlifting shoes, as they need to withstand the rigors of heavy lifting and frequent use. I examined the construction quality, material strength, and stitching integrity of each shoe. Shoes that showed resilience against wear and tear, maintaining their shape and support over time, were rated highly.

Weight of the Shoe

The weight of the shoe can impact a lifter's performance. I tested the shoes for their weight, favoring those that offered a solid, grounded feel without being overly heavy, allowing for agility and stability during lifts.

Price

Price is a crucial factor for many athletes. I compared the cost of each pair of shoes against their features and performance. The goal was to identify shoes that offer the best value for money, balancing affordability with quality.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is key in any athletic shoe, but especially in weightlifting, where foot stability and support are essential. I assessed the comfort level of each shoe, considering factors like cushioning, arch support, and whether they accommodate different foot shapes and sizes.

Heel Height and Support

The heel height in weightlifting shoes varies and can affect lifting mechanics. I evaluated the heel height and its impact on posture and alignment during lifts. Shoes that provided optimal heel support, enhancing lifting form without causing discomfort, were preferred.

Traction and Grip

A secure grip on the gym floor is crucial for safety and performance in weightlifting. I tested the traction of each shoe's sole on various surfaces, ensuring they offer stability and prevent slipping during lifts.

Breathability and Material Quality

Good air circulation within the shoe is important for comfort, especially during intense training sessions. I examined the breathability and overall material quality of the shoes, preferring those that kept feet cool and dry.

Aesthetic and Design

While functionality is the priority, the aesthetic appeal of the shoes can also be important to lifters. I considered the overall design and appearance of the shoes, recognizing that a visually appealing pair might be more motivating for some users.

Buyer's Guide

Training shoes on a rack

When choosing weightlifting shoes for men, you should consider their ability to handle extreme loads, stability, and heel height. You should also check the comfort level, toe box, durability, and how it looks. Let's further discuss each point below.

  • Ability to handle extreme loads - This is the primary function of top lifting shoes: to stand up to the unnatural weights associated with the sport. Hence, they're fabricated using advanced materials that retain their integrity no matter the burden. This gives them a more rigid feel, but this rigidity is an absolute necessity.
  • Stability - One of the biggest risks of slinging around extreme weights is the chance of turning an ankle or injuring the back, causing severe long-term damage. The best weightlifting shoes enhance the stability of your stance, help promote proper body alignment and keeps your feet squarely under you as you move through the lift.
  • Height of the heel - A raised heel enables robust force projection up through the center of the body. This is particularly important for overhead lifts. In most cases 3/4 of an inch is standard, but the particular physiology of the lifter may call for slightly more or less than that.
  • Comfort - The general rule is that you shouldn’t be aware of your shoes while lifting. Top lifting shoes then, for all intents and purposes, are a physical extension of your body. If it is pinching or otherwise feel uncomfortable during any part of the lifting process, something is wrong, and you should try a different footwear.
  • Toe box - The elevated heel of the best weightlifting shoes means that enormous amounts of force are going to be brought to bear on your toes. The wider toe box of your footwear then, needs to be able to absorb this force without crushing your toes in the process.
  • Durability - Top weightlifting shoes are expensive. Therefore, it's crucial that you get your money's worth and that means yours should stand the test of time. All of those mentioned above use high-quality materials, but that can't be said for every product on the market.
  • Looks - There's nothing wrong with wanting to look good while you lift. If aesthetics are important to you, make sure you select a good-looking shoe that also delivers in terms of performance. There are plenty of them out there.

It’s simple really.

The companies don’t make or sell nearly as many men’s weightlifting or powerlifting shoes as they do running footwear.

Therefore, they have a harder time recovering development and production costs and so have to charge more per foot.

That said, as time has passed some manufacturers have limited the number of models they introduce as well as the number of upgrades that cost them money.


As a result, the prices of most good lifting shoes have seen a bit of a downward trend.

Not so much that the best weightlifting shoes are cheap, but prices are generally moving in the more wallet-friendly direction.

Whether you’re talking standard or high top weightlifting shoes, proper care of even the best lifting footwear can be summed up in one short statement:

Never wear weightlifting shoes outside the gym.

Beyond that, store them in a cool, dry place and make sure you air them out properly after every use.

Related Articles:

4 Types of Lifting Shoes

Not all the best lifting shoes are right for all types of weightlifting. Searching for a guide can also be helpful in terms of asking yourself if you really need one.

What’s important for deadlift is different than what’s important for the best Olympic lifting shoes. In general, these can be grouped into four main categories. Which are:

  • Olympic - When someone says "Olympic lifting," they are generally referring to the benefits of the clean and jerk and the snatch [5]. Therefore, the best Olympic weightlifting shoes are those with a slightly raised heel, a firm grip and lots of lateral support to facilitate those kinds of lifts.
  • Squats and deadlifts - Squats and deadlifts involve extreme weight and are brute force exercises that call for a flatter heel that is also wider. The best shoes for squats usually have extra width to accommodate the foot as it spreads out under the intense forces generated by such weights [6].


  • Powerlifting - The best powerlifting shoes are typically flatter than those use for Olympic weightlifting but not as flat as those for deadlifting. Mens powerlifting flat shoes tend to have a more compressible flat sole, and some eschew the insole strap.
  • CrossFit - The standard CrossFit regime is so varied that it has proven difficult for designers to come up with definitive CrossFit weightlifting shoes. As such, many CrossFitters look to other disciplines for their footwear, and many choose top weightlifting footwear instead. Olympic-style and powerlifting models are popular choices.

If you want to really master the arts of powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting, you’re gonna need some specialized footwear. Trust us: The last thing you want while hoisting a 200-lb barbell over your head is feeling unstable or off-balance.

- Men's Journal

FAQs

Do Weightlifting Shoes Make a Difference?

Yes, weightlifting shoes make a difference because they are specifically designed to help with the squatting motion. With a raised heel section, they have quite a drop from heel to toe, helping you get into a deeper squat position through a wider range of motion less restrictive in the ankles.

Are Chucks Still Good for Lifting?

Chucks are not good for lifting heavy weights at the gym because they don't provide an increased range of motion. Without the raised heel section, you'll struggle to get into a very low squatting position without causing excessive strain on your ankles.

Is It Ok to Deadlift in Weightlifting Shoes?

Yes, It is ok to deadlift in weightlifting shoes. However, most weightlifters should avoid using weightlifting shoes because they will alter your hip mechanics and original setup when lifting.

How Have Weightlifting Shoes Evolved Over Time?

Weightlifting shoes have evolved significantly, transitioning from basic, flat designs to modern shoes with enhanced support and technology. This evolution reflects a deeper understanding of biomechanics and the needs of athletes, leading to improved performance and safety.

How Do Different Weightlifting Shoe Designs Affect Lifting Biomechanics?

Different weightlifting shoe designs can significantly impact lifting biomechanics, such as force distribution and joint alignment. Shoes with elevated heels, for instance, allow for deeper squats while maintaining proper form, reducing the risk of injury.

What Is the Environmental Impact of Producing Weightlifting Shoes?

The production of weightlifting shoes can have a notable environmental impact, primarily due to the use of synthetic materials and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. However, many brands are now exploring sustainable materials and eco-friendly production methods to reduce this impact.

Can Weightlifting Shoes Be Customized for Individual Needs?

Yes, some brands offer customization options for weightlifting shoes, allowing athletes to choose specific designs, materials, and even personalized fit for enhanced comfort and performance. This customization can cater to individual preferences and biomechanical needs.

How Does the Choice of Weightlifting Shoes Affect an Athlete's Psychology?

The choice of weightlifting shoes can significantly impact an athlete's psychology, boosting confidence and mental preparedness. Wearing the right pair of shoes can enhance the feeling of stability and support, contributing to better focus and performance during lifts.

Our Verdict on Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men

The best shoes for weightlifting are those that meet all the above criteria, and none do so in a more complete and satisfying way than the Adidas Men's Adipower weightlifting shoes.

While all of the shoes we profiled above are well made based on our tests, the Adipower weightlifting kit remains the most comfortable footwear out there when under pressure.

They virtually eliminate horizontal drift as you shift the weight upward; the TPU midsole provides unmatched stability; and the Velcro closure prevents too much weight from pushing forward and crushing your toes.

 

 

Our #1 Recommendation

Adidas Men's Adipower (Best Overall & Cheapest)

Adidas Men's Adipower

Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System

5.0
Durability
4.6
Price
5.0
Quality
5.0
User Ratings
5.0
Product Effectiveness
5.0
Comfort
Pros
  • TPU midsole provides strong, stable positioning
  • Genuine leather upper cradles your feet firmly
  • The shoe is well vented to prevent overheating
  • The Velcro strap provides intense lateral stability
Cons
  • They’re expensive
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About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC is an ex-National Soccer player turned MMA and Kickboxing champion, with ACE CPT and PN1-NC certifications. His advice is rooted in education and experience, ensuring that readers receive scientific and battle-tested insights. His mission is to empower his clients and readers to realize their potential and become the best versions of themselves.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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Our durability score is based 3 factors including: material quality, maintenance, and warranty terms. The score is a measure of objective test results against set standards. For more information see our durability score explanation here.
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