The best weightlifting shoes for 2025

Because weight shoes are a unique type of footwear, we had feedback from experts on the qualities we should look for when buying these shoes.

They are true to size: Weightlifting shoes tend to run true to size to fit your exact foot measurements. “This is because you don’t want to move in the shoe at all when squatting or Olympic lifting, as the shoe will have to move firmly with you through your lift,” explains Matt Scarfo, a certified personal trainer from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Also, you want to make sure the shoe is stable and supportive. “It shouldn’t be too comfortable for walking, because the platform of the shoe needs to be stiff so you can put all your strength through the shoe into the floor,” says Scarfo.

Phung Trana certified exercise physiologist from the American College of Sports Medicine, adds that if you have wide feet, it’s completely OK to go up half a size so that the shoe fits more comfortably. “Also keep in mind, weight-bearing shoes don’t help as much as flat feet because they don’t provide cushioning for the soles,” explains Tran, adding, “It’s up to you to do exercises to improve the strength of your feet. arch and calf muscles.”

“Don’t shop by brand; shop by fit, because you need to try on shoes from a variety of brands to see which ones feel best for you,” says Tran. “It doesn’t matter how cool the shoe is or how many high-tech features it has, because if they’re not comfortable, your workouts will become a struggle,” he points out. Keep in mind when shopping for weightlifting shoes that comfort and stability are key.

High heel shoes: One of the styles of weightlifting shoes you will find has a high heel. These usually have laces and a Velcro strap at the top to keep your feet extra secure. These shoes are best if you practice Olympic lifting exercises that include clean-and-jerks or snatches. It is also beneficial if you do exercises like squatting and try to get more in your squat.

“Weightlifting shoes with heels help those with limited ankle mobility by elevating the heels and decreasing the angle between the shin and the top of the foot, improving squat depth,” explains Scarfo. He says you should only use these shoes for squatting and Olympic lifting, as they provide a stable base to drop into a squat and engage the hamstrings to lift from it.

That’s all they’re good for. “You absolutely do not want to use weight shoes with heels for deadlifting, because these shoes can move your center of gravity forward, causing you to use too much of your back on the deadlift, and increase the risk of injury,” he warns. .

Flat shoes: There are also weightlifting shoes that fall under the flat-sole or minimalist shoe category. These are solid, sturdy and have a zero drop sole, which means there is no difference in height between the heel and the toe. “Look for good ankle support, excellent grip and a flexible sole if you opt for a minimalist training shoe,” says Tran. The flexible sole will help optimize performance in everything from plyometrics to heavy lifting.

This style tends to be more versatile because, unlike the weight shoe with heels, it can be used for all your lifts and even cardio exercises. “However, these won’t help you drop into a squat without a little stretching,” says Scarfo. This does not mean that it is impossible to have the adequate ankle flexion required to squat without heels.

Scarfo suggests foam rolling, stretching your calves and doing lots of ankle stretches to prepare your Achilles tendon before your lifting sessions. This should also include a long warm-up, because your body is prepared to stabilize your muscles during these workouts.