8 Best Weightlifting Shoes (2022 2023 Round Up!)

There are three pros I've found with this model. First, it offers excellent stability, making it suitable for both weightlifting athletes and recreational lifters focusing on squats and static strength work. The shoe's thick rubber outsole and TPU heel provide reliable stability.

Secondly, it boasts a wider toe box compared to other weightlifting shoes on the market, making it a great option for those who find weightlifting shoes limiting in the toe area. It's designed with a more anatomical toe box for enhanced comfort.

The third advantage is the shoe's mid-foot security and upper durability. I haven't experienced any durability issues with this shoe, and I appreciate the dual strap system and lacing for added security.

If you have narrower feet and prefer a snug fit, this shoe might feel too wide for you. Tightening the lower strap significantly can bring it quite close to the ground, which could be problematic for those with narrow feet.

Now let's talk about the Velaasa Strake weightlifting shoe. There are three pros I've found with this model:

First, if you're looking for a modern-day weightlifting shoe with a wooden heel, this is one of the few options that still offers this feature. The wooden heel provides a satisfying snappiness and excellent platform feedback, which some weightlifters prefer over EVA foam or TPU heels.

Secondly, when it comes to squats and heavy lifts, this shoe excels in providing a secure and locked-down feel. The heel feels solid and planted, and the forefoot outsole offers great grip and traction, enhancing stability during lifts.

The third advantage is the midfoot construction and lacing system. The lacing system on the medial side of the shoe, along with the loops, adds a touch of flexibility to the midfoot without compromising security, making it an interesting feature for those who appreciate a secure fit.

First, the velcro strap on the lateral side could benefit from being extended slightly. This would improve strap security, especially for individuals with specific anatomical needs. As it stands, tightening the strap significantly may result in some overhang.

Second, the shoe can run a bit narrow through the forefoot, so if you have wider feet or prefer more width for toe splay, this might not be the ideal option.

Third, the price point of $250 USD, while sometimes marked down, is relatively high. If you're looking to save money, there are alternatives that offer similar performance at a lower cost, making this shoe less accessible to budget-conscious consumers.

Pros:

First, if you prefer weightlifting shoes with a wooden heel, this is one of the few options still offering this feature. The wooden heel provides a snappy feel and excellent platform feedback, which some lifters love.

Secondly, for squats and heavier lifts, this shoe excels in providing a secure and locked-down feel. The heel feels stable, and the outsole offers good grip and traction, ensuring you feel planted during your lifts.

The third advantage is the midfoot construction and lacing system. The unique lacing system on the medial side of the shoe provides some flexibility without compromising security, making it an interesting feature for those who like a snug fit.

First, it may not be the best choice for individuals with wider feet, despite Inov-8's claim that it runs wider. If you have wider feet, you might want to consider other options.

Second, the price point of $210 USD is relatively high. While this shoe has unique features that some may find justifiable, it's not the most cost-efficient weightlifting shoe available.

First and foremost, the price point of this model is a standout feature. Priced at $95 USD, it offers a great balance between construction and performance. In fact, it's roughly half the cost of most weightlifting shoes on the market. So, if you're looking to save some money and keep your budget under $100, this is a highly viable option.

Secondly, considering its price, the Rogue Do-Win is an excellent entry-level weightlifting shoe. If you're new to weightlifting shoes and want to test the waters to see if they suit your training needs, this shoe provides consistency, good grip on the outsole, and a stable TPU heel. It's a dependable choice for beginners.

The third advantage is the midfoot security offered by the Dual strap system in this model. While the straps could be slightly more rigid, and the lacing system could use improvement, they still provide adequate security. Most lifters and athletes will find this level of midfoot security sufficient.

First, the elastic construction of this shoe differs from previous Do-Win models. Some users may remember older models being wider and more spacious in the toe box. This current model has a slightly narrower toe box and runs a bit shorter in length. To ensure a comfortable fit, I recommend sizing up by at least half a size, even if Rogue's site suggests otherwise. For instance, I have a neutral-width foot, and I regretted going true to size as it felt uncomfortably snug in the toe box.

The second drawback is related to the leather upper construction, which can make the shoe run hot. If you plan on wearing these shoes for extended periods, particularly in a warm gym, expect your feet to get sweaty. It's advisable to opt for thinner socks when wearing them.

Regarding sizing, my recommendation is to size up by at least half a size. For those with narrow-width feet, true to size might work, but for neutral or wider feet, going up by half a size or even a full size is recommended to achieve a more comfortable fit in the Rogue Do-Win weightlifting shoes.

Here are three pros I've identified:

First and foremost, the stability offered by this shoe is exceptional. In comparison to other weightlifting shoes on this list, the Legacy Lifter II is a bit heavier. This weight, however, translates into a secure and anchored feel, making it ideal for exercises like squats and static strength work. The substantial feel of the shoe is a standout feature, ensuring you feel firmly planted during your lifts.

The second advantage is the upper construction of the shoe. The Legacy Lifter II's upper provides a high level of security and hugs the foot effectively. Reebok has added extra padding to the boot, enhancing the sense of security, especially when performing cleans or other weightlifting movements. This added padding contributes to better heel stability.

The third pro is related to the midfoot construction and outsole grip. The shoe features a single strap that is slightly wider, and the full-length velcro adjustment allows for accommodating various foot anatomies. The midfoot construction and the grip provided by the outsole's tread pattern both contribute to a secure and comfortable lifting experience.

Firstly, this shoe is on the heavier side. While the weight contributes to its stability, it might not be suitable for individuals who prefer lighter weightlifting shoes for quicker foot turnover or those who find heavy shoes cumbersome during lifts.

The second drawback is the price point. The Legacy Lifter II is priced at $200 USD, making it a less budget-friendly option. If you're seeking a more affordable weightlifting shoe, this might not be the best choice for you.

The third con is related to foot width. While the shoe is wider than some other weightlifting shoes like the Inov-8 models and the Nike ROM 4, it may not provide enough width for individuals with wider feet. If you have a wider foot, this shoe might not be the most accommodating option.

Here are three pros associated with this shoe:

Firstly, if you happen to have a narrower foot width, you'll likely appreciate the overall fit of the Romaleos 4. Nike tends to maintain a consistent last construction across their shoes, including weightlifting shoes. If you typically find Nike shoes comfortable, you should find the fit of the Romaleos 4 to your liking.

The second advantage is the shoe's stability. The Romaleos 4 offers a commendable level of stability due to its dense TPU heel and rubber outsole. If you prefer a weightlifting shoe with a firmer and more stable feel, this model should suit your preferences.

The third pro relates to the shoe's midfoot construction and durability. The upper of this model is built to withstand wear and tear, and the dual-strap system enhances security. While there is room for improvement, particularly in updating the lower strap, the Romaleos 4 still provides sufficient midfoot security for most lifters and athletes.

Firstly, if you have a wider foot or simply prefer more toe box room, you should steer clear of this model. The Romaleos 4 is known for its snug fit, and even those with a neutral-width foot may find the toe box uncomfortably tight. The upper's volume and tapering can be restrictive, so individuals with wider feet may want to explore other options.

The second con is related to the price point. The Romaleos 4 is priced at $200 USD, which is on the higher end for weightlifting shoes. If you're seeking a more budget-friendly option, you may want to shop around for models that offer a similar performance at a lower price point or look for discounted colorways as newer models are released.

Here are three pros associated with this weightlifting shoe:

Firstly, the Powerlift 5 could serve as an excellent option for beginners in weightlifting. It offers a lower price point compared to many other weightlifting shoes and incorporates all the essential features necessary for weightlifting. Additionally, it has a slightly lower heel-to-toe drop, making it suitable for individuals who are transitioning from flat shoes or lower-drop footwear. This allows you to ease yourself into the experience of squatting and training with an elevated heel.

The second advantage is its affordability. Priced at $110 USD, the Powerlift 5 is a cost-effective option for weightlifting shoes. If you're budget-conscious, you may also consider checking out previous iterations like the Powerlift 3 or 4, which are often available on Amazon for less than $100 USD. These earlier models perform well and can be a more economical choice.

The third pro is its grip on the outsole and the secure upper construction. This shoe provides good traction and a stable fit, making it suitable for general strength training, weightlifting, and squatting without the higher price tag associated with some other weightlifting shoes.

Firstly, the Powerlift 5 may feel somewhat stiff and requires some time to break in. Unlike weightlifting shoes with TPU or wooden heels, this model features a high-density EVA heel, which can give it a stiffer and less flexible feel, especially in the toe box. If you prefer more articulation and mobility in your shoes, this stiffness may not be to your liking.

The second con is related to the snug fit through the toe box. While the overall last construction remains similar to other Powerlift models, the updated upper on the Powerlift 5 is thicker, resulting in a slightly snugger fit. If you prefer a more spacious toe box in your weightlifting shoes, you might want to consider the Powerlift 3 or 4 models, which may offer a better fit for your preferences.

Here's a breakdown of the Adidas AdiPower 3 weightlifting shoe, highlighting its pros and cons:

• Stability: The AdiPower 3 offers a stable platform for lifting. It features a thinner sole in the forefoot that provides good ground feedback, while the TPU heel ensures stability, making it suitable for squatting and weightlifting movements. If you've used previous AdiPower models, you'll likely find this consistency a positive aspect.
• Breathability and Aesthetics: The shoe's canvas and ripstop upper provide good breathability, making it comfortable during workouts. Additionally, the AdiPower 3 is available in various colorways, giving it an appealing aesthetic appearance. If you value breathability and prefer stylish weightlifting shoes, this model might be a great option.
• Midfoot Security: The shoe incorporates a strap that extends further down the shoe than some other models, providing a secure fit, particularly for individuals with narrow or neutral-width feet. If you've had a positive experience with previous AdiPower models, you're likely to appreciate the fit and feel of the AdiPower 3.

Narrow Toe Box: The AdiPower 3 may not be suitable for individuals with wider feet, as it has a narrower toe box and a more aggressive taper. This construction may lead to foot overhang, especially during movements like catching cleans and pushing against the lateral side of the upper. If you have wider feet, it's essential to consider this aspect.

Price Increase: Adidas has increased the price of the AdiPower 3 compared to the previous models. It now retails for $220 USD, making it a less budget-friendly option than the AdiPower 1 and 2, which were priced at $200 USD. If you're cost-conscious, this price increase could be a drawback.