10 Best Weightlifting Shoes (Review) In 2022

- 1. Adidas Men's Adipower Weightlift Shoes
- 2. Adidas Men's Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer
- 3. Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting
- 4. Reebok Men's Lifter Pr Cross-trainer Shoe
- 5. NOBULL Women's Training Shoes and Styles
- 6. Inov-8 Men's Fastlift 335 Weight-Lifting Shoe
- 7. Adidas Men's Power Perfect III. Cross Trainer
- 8. Adidas Performance Men's Drehkraft Training Shoe
- 9. Nike Romaleos 3 Men's Weightlifting Shoes
- 10. Inov-8 Men's F-LITE 260 Knit (M) Cross Trainer
We are in a new age of easy accessibility to a wide range of products and services. And although this is definitely more of a blessing than a curse, it sometimes confuses or misguides a lot of serious buyers. Most have an idea of what they are after but are not properly accustomed to the product to make an informed choice. This is certainly the case when it comes to purchasing weightlifting shoes. Many weightlifters end up with regular sneakers that aren’t engineered for that kind of intense training. Weightlifting shoes are specifically crafted to enhance mobility, support, and stability when moving heavy objects. They come with special advanced features that make them the best choice for weightlifters and powerlifters. This greatly distinguishes them from a regular pair of sneakers, simply because of the overall improved performance they deliver. Regardless of the imminent influx of new brands in the market on a regular, we outlined the top ten best weightlifting shoes with superior designs and durability. For similar footwear, check out our boxing shoes and martial arts shoes guides too.
The Best Weightlifting Shoe
1. Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlift Shoes

Anti-slip rubber soles
Heel overlay for lightweight stability
Vent flow openings in the outsole
Hook and loop power strap
Weightlifting shoes may not be the finest shoes around, but for such an intense sport, the design is focused elsewhere. The Adidas Men’s Adipower Weightlift Shoes prove to be a viable set of lifting shoes. Probably not a pair you would rock outdoors, but definitely ones that would keep your stance solid while providing the needed support. The mesh uppers are overlaid with a PU-coated leather material that gives the shoes a strong and firm form, without compromising on comfort. And just below are the extra sturdy midsoles that provide a secure hold on the foot for when the pressure weighs in.
Additionally, the weightlifting engineered chassis makes these a great choice for deadlifts and high energy squats and thanks to the stability the shoes provide, the feet stay well-grounded on the floor with the elevated heel providing the extra balance required to hit the desired target. With the comfort, flexibility and lightweight form these shoes provide, both newbies and professionals can attain their training goals. Make sure you also check out guide to the best CrossFit shoes.
Provide great stability
Comfortable fit
Lightweight and flexible
Toe Box may be a bit tight
May need breaking into
2. Adidas Men’s Powerlift.3.1 Cross Trainer

High-density weight midsole
Open fore-foot structure and flexible toe
Lace closure with a wide strap
Air mesh tongue and collar
Unlike most weightlifting shoes that are more focused on performance, this all-black power lift shoe rock quite an attractive and streamlined form. The synthetic uppers are perforated at the front for increased airflow. In addition, the collar and tongue are lined with mesh material to ensure a much cooler feel during training. What’s even better is the lace and strap system; for an adjustable and secure footing, the laces run all the way to the collar with the wide power strap towering over for enhanced support. This ensures stable footing during those power-lifts, which means you’d be able to lift more per time.
The synthetic leather uppers are equally drafted in to provide the needed support around the shoes, making its form snug and firm on the feet. the high-quality synthetic leather make also guarantees extra-durability on these sturdy Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1 Cross Trainers. For regular weightlifting, you’ll want to have these handsome pairs of cross training shoes supporting the feet providing the required balance, comfort, and support needed to exceed your goals.
Provides stability
Efficiently balances the lift
Provides great arch support
The sides fit quite tight
Shoes may not be true to size
The velcro straps get in the way of the shoelaces
3. Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting

Made with premium quality materials
3.5cm raised heel for enhanced stability
Sturdy velcro strap
1 year manufacturer’s warranty
The Nordic lifting Powerlifting Shoes for Heavy Weightlifting makes all the difference when the pressure hits in. They may sport a quite minimalistic design, but the clean and classy finishing to the shoes can’t go unnoticed either. Once your feet slip into these flexible yet sturdy shoes, there’s no going back; they were made for weightlifting. Available in a classy black or a bright blue color, these shoes are perfect for men and women who train or practice any weightlifting related sports.
The raised heel of about 3.5cm provides the stability and support needed to go the extra mile during training sessions and also gives lifters an improved position when weighing in the scales, an uncompromised upright position should guarantee chances of lifting more weights. In addition, the adjustable power strap lock in the feet for an uncompromised stance when getting those numbers in. the smooth yet rigid outsoles provide a non-slip base that makes these shoes the best pair for the job. For any sportsman that works with weightlifting, powerlifting or bodybuilding these shoes are definitely worth the time and money. If you like sports, be sure to check our guide to the best wrestling shoes as well.
Improves lifting posture
Reinforced stitching and quality materials guarantee durability
Quite an affordable option
Cannot be used as cross trainers
High heel may be too high for deadlifting
Users complained about the velcro strap
4. Reebok Men’s Lifter Pr Cross-trainer Shoe

100% mesh and synthetic uppers
Heat-activated u-form technology
Non-slip rubber outsoles
Anti-friction lining
These solid Reebok Men’s Lifter Pr Cross-trainer Shoes provide a great platform for uncompromised support and stability when weightlifting. The advantage that over some lifting shoes like the Nordic powerlifting shoes is the versatility they provide. Trainers like these that are used for weightlifting or powerlifting can benefit from the stability and extra lift, yet it can still be used as cross-trainers. However, for lifters, you’ll notice that the extra lift on the heel facilitates deeper and heavier squats than what classic sneakers would allow.
Additionally, the extra grip the outsoles provide makes for a more stable stance; so feel free to go on and add those extra ounces, your form would take it with these supportive shoes. This is because the heel clips hold the feet in, while the two-strap closures lock the feet for a more snug and secure feel. What’s more, the mesh tongue and collars make for a more ventilated feel, improving the overall coolness and comfort these shoes provide. For an improved stance and a more natural grip, these Reeboks deliver undeniable value.
Great for enhanced stability
Provides a good lift
Offer a good grip
They may not be flexible enough to be used as cross trainers
Doesn’t run a true size
May be a bit too narrow for wide feet
5. NOBULL Women’s Training Shoes and Styles

Mediala rope grip
Outsole lug pattern suitable for all terrains
Perforated canvas upper
Seamless one-piece super fabric construction
It may be convenient for a lot of ladies to simply opt for smaller sizes of unisex or male shoes. However, the Nobull Women’s Training Shoes and Styles are specifically engineered for the female’s foot anatomy. Instead of figuring out what size to get when buying regular weightlifting shoes, these feminine Nobull shoes provide a more accurate and snug fit.
Suitable to wear as cross trainers, these leveled kicks will have you running, sliding, climbing, grinding and lifting conveniently on practically all terrains. They are lightweight, and very breathable thanks to the one-piece super fabric construction it rocks. The fabric is abrasion-resistant which makes it suitable for practically all platforms. These Attractive, breathable and supportive shoes will get you through each lift while providing the extra form to reach those goals. For more women’s shoes, check out our guide to the best shoes for Zumba.
Provides great comfort and support
Attractive design
Great CrossFit shoes
Run a bit small
Poor patch support
6. Inov-8 Men’s Fastlift 335 Weight-Lifting Shoe

Non-slip rubber soles
Rip-stop uppers with lightweight overlays
Power-truss heel
Removable molded footbed
The Inov-8 Men’s Fastlift Weight-Lifting Shoe is one of the best weightlifting shoes and for good reason. It’s made with premium quality materials and engineered to fit snugly on the feet for the perfect stance. For easy mobility during training, the flexible form ticks the necessary boxes and there’s enough room for the forefoot to get comfortable yet stay stable. What’s more, the uppers are made from rip-stop material, making it ideal for practically any terrain and to ensure the shoes stay light on the feet, the synthetic overlays provide support without making the shoes overly uncomfortable or heavy to work with.
For an incredibly firm and secure hold, the lace-up system hugs the feet in securely with help from the adjustable hook and loop instep straps and the elevated heel gives lifters the extra balance and form when performing squats or deadlifts. However, the great thing about the raised heel is how natural it feels on the feet, they may not be suitable for running or the likes, but these shoes are comfortable enough to feel like sneakers when you’re not thinking about the lift. If you like working out, check out our guide to the best spin class shoes.
Snug and comfortable fit
Wide fit for wide feet
Light and stable shoes
Not as rigid as other lifting shoes
Not great for running or other training activities
7. Adidas Men’s Power Perfect III. Cross Trainer

Hook and loop instep strap
Die-cut wedge midsole
Air-mesh collar
Lightweight synthetic uppers
The Adidas brand is all about stability, top performance, comfort and balance, and you can tell by the design on the Adidas Men’s Power Perfect III Cross Trainer. As big as they are on design, these shoes perform great as well, making you look good as you get those weights in. For enhanced comfort on the go, the mesh uppers and tongue provide enough ventilation through its form. What’s more, the tongue is also padded to enhance comfort when pushing the limits and meeting daily goals and the Derby construction provides lateral support throughout its lateral form. This ensures the feet are well-positioned and balanced when the weight weighs in.
Great shoes like the Power Perfect III don’t only guarantee good form, but prevent unnecessary injuries or after-pains after a gainful day of training. The legs stay balanced, and the back straight during squats and deadlifts. Overall, it’s a great shoe for weightlifting as well as a range of other sports/training activities. If you prefer sports that include a ball, check out our guide to the best basketball sneakers.
Weightlifting-engineered
Great as women lifting shoes
Provide a stable lift
Plastic velcro straps
Toe box uncomfortable for some
8. Adidas Performance Men’s Drehkraft Training Shoe

1005 synthetic uppers
Perforated uppers for breathability
BOA lacing system
TPU on sides for extra durability
These Adidas shoes stand out for rocking BOA lacing systems which is more preferred among a good number of trainers. It’s solid, sturdy and provides the extra edge needed to perform up to par on a regular. With a padded collar and tongue, the Adidas Performance Men’s Drehkraft Training Shoe has proven to be quite comfortable. For even more comfort for training sessions, the perforated uppers provide enough ventilation through the shoe form, making for a much cooler and breathable feel.
One of the concerns of weightlifters and bodybuilders is good form and stable knees. This is even more concerning for lifters with knee conditions. The stable elevated heel takes the pressure off the knees when lifting, which is quite relieving. The pressure is more distributed through the length of the legs without putting extreme pressure on the back or knees. For snatch, clean and jerk lifting, these solid, lightweight shoes definitely keep the feet secure and stable for enhanced performance without tiring out the knees. If you like to exercise, check out our guide to the best shoes for jazzercise.
Quite affordable for the value
Provide a tight snug fit
Outsoles provide great grip
Lacing systems doesn’t dial in extra-tight
Has to be broken into
Not much ankle support
9. Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes

Synthetic uppers
Lace-up system with strap
Rubber soles
Breathable uppers
You may have heard about the Nike Romaleos 3 Men’s Weightlifting Shoes; they are quite popular in the weightlifting world and are used by a good number of Olympic lifters and bodybuilders both professionally and for training purposes. You may also wonder why these pairs are quite popular, well, apart from making the news, they have proven to be one of the most sturdy in the industry. Even with their synthetic make, they would still compete with shoes made from pure leather any day.
What’s even better is the great fit they provide, comfortable, flexible and snug on the feet. It delivers a locked-in feel that keeps the feet balanced and grounded on the floor. In addition, the outsoles guarantee a non-slip grip on the floor, ensuring your stance is uncompromised during those power lifts. Providing great breathability and a snug fit, the Romaleos would definitely do you good when training. Our guide to the best parkour shoes offers more great footwear so make sure you check it out.
Good sole grip
Strong heel support
Form-fitting lifting shoes
Extremely dense rubber bottoms
Not recommended as cross trainers
They are quite pricey
10. Inov-8 Men’s F-LITE 260 Knit (M) Cross Trainer

Breathable knitted fabric uppers
360-degree Rope-tec system
Meta-Flex technology
Sticky grip rubber outsoles
The Inov-8 Men’s F-Lite 260 Knit (M) Cross Trainer is definitely an improvement from its predecessors technologically and otherwise. The Meta-Flex provides optimal multi-directional flexibility; there’s extreme freedom to move forward and laterally; wherever your feet move, the shoes naturally follow, which is not a luxury a lot of shoes allow. What’s more, they deliver a really relieving lightweight fit with knitted uppers that provide a breathable feel through the shoe forms. And even better is the extra-grip the rubber outsoles provide, the sticky-grip rubber soles guarantee about 50% more traction than most shoes including these Inov predecessors, can provide.
Pushing the limits on extremely durable shoes, these Inov shoes make use of graphene to improve durability while delivering extremely lightweight shoes. this is what makes the shoes feel a lot more natural, slim, flexible and yet sturdy. With an extremely flexible form, responsive soles and exceptional grips, the Inov-8 is definitely a force to be reckoned with when it comes to innovative shoes that push the mark.
Incredible design
Extremely durable
Lightweight with solid grip
No mesh for proper ventilation
The soles are slippery at first
Doesn’t run a true size
Weightlifting Shoes Buying Guide & FAQ
After going through some of the best shoes for weightlifting, you’re probably checking out the products to figure out which looks better or has better specs. There’s more to every shoe than the basic description, and the question should be, is that the best shoe for the nature of your workout? Getting the right lifting shoes cannot be over-emphasized, the support they provide when you’re doing what you love is irreplaceable.
That’s why it’s best to figure out which shoes would work better for the nature of lifting you are doing. Luckily for you, this mini-guide should help prospective buyers with some vital information concerning the best weightlifting shoes for their body, budget or specific sport.
How We Chose Our Selection Of Weightlifting Shoes
There are a lot of things to consider when drafting out a list of the best weightlifting shoes, but for the purpose of this guide, some stood out more than others. We’ll explore the key factors that shaped our top ten picks.
Reviews - For every good product, there’s a stream of reviews either validating its quality and durability or criticizing the manufacturer’s guarantees. If you notice, there’s no product that doesn’t have negative reviews, someone always has something a bit off to say about a brand and its product. However, we look at the majority of the reviews from verified purchasers who most times go as far as providing pictorial proof. This goes a long way to tell how well the product is performing in real case scenarios, overtime.
Price - Affordability is a very relative term, what may be pricey for one could be a quite comfortable price for another. Most times it is a bit complicated to find the right middle ground between a good product that’s affordable for a good number of people. However, with the experience we have, we include an array of excellent products with different prices that should certainly bridge that gap. While some may seem a bit too expensive, you’ll definitely find a price range that suits your budget.
Brand - A lot of people can trust the viability of a product merely by knowing the brand name, and there’s no doubt why. Some brands have been in the business for years, manufacturing masterpiece after masterpiece of good support shoes that have served their purpose long term. The market is saturated by a very high number of manufacturers producing the same thing, lifting shoes, but there’s definitely a hierarchy to it.
Trusted brands manufacture shoes with a great design, great fit, assured comfort and excellent support. Beyond that, these shoes are sure to last a lot longer than the one that’s poorly crafted. In this vein, we ensured we looked out for top, reliable brands whose work we can trust when it comes to delivering standard weightlifting shoes.
Features To Look Out For In Weightlifting Shoes
For the purpose of getting shoes that are more tailored to your needs, there are some basic features to consider when looking at weightlifting shoes.
Lace system - The lacing system on the shoe determines how secure the foot would be when the pressure is on. For weight lifting shoes, it’s better to go with a BOA lacing system for maximal foot security.
Strap - Every lifter requires that much more security when cranking up the weights. Shoes that come with double strapping would definitely be a better option for enhanced security. This is very paramount if you lift heavy weights, the feet should be securely anchored to protect your balance and stance while keeping the feet from bailing out or slipping.
Elevated Heel Types - Lifting shoes usually feature a raised heel, usually, the heel is raised by about half an inch to about 1 inch off the ground. This is included to help weight lifters retain balance when lifting heavyweights. When you’re crouched into a squat position, it’s the elevated heel that would help you retain an upright position.
However, not everybody wears lifters, others prefer a more sneaker-type shoe, which is usually just flat. It’s best to talk to your trainer for advice on whether to buy shoes with an elevated heel or not. Factors like height, squat stance and whether you carry out high or low-bar squats would also determine the elevated inch required or whether it’s needed at all.
Support - Every athlete or fitness enthusiast requires a stable stance and enough support to maintain the needed poise required for weight lifting. This is very dependent on how much support the shoe provides, from an adequate lace system, reinforced uppers to a standard heel determine just how much support the shoes would provide.
Weightlifting Shoes FAQ
Q: Do weightlifting shoes make a difference?
A: Normal gym shoes or sneakers won’t provide the support, balance and extra advantage when it comes to weight lifting. Some shoes have been designed for such purposes making them much more superior to the regular work-out shoes. To avoid shoes that won’t provide stability or ones that would end up causing pain and discomfort, it’s best to stick to standard weightlifting shoes like the ones provided above.
Q: Are weightlifting shoes good for deadlifts?
A: This is definitely dependent on preference and what suits the individual’s body best. Some people deadlift barefoot, while others dare not try it. if you prefer deadlifting in training shoes, we definitely recommend using lifting shoes.