We Found the Best Weightlifting Shoes After 65 Hours of Squats, Lunges, and More

The best weightlifting shoes offer support but keep your feet stable and grounded as you squat, deadlift, and more. When shopping for a lifting shoe, look for a strong, stable sole to keep you grounded as you push and pull weight. You should also consider heel-to-toe drop (the height difference between the heel and toe of the shoe), shape, and the materials the shoe is made of, says Jordan Kunde-Wright, certified conditioning coach and founder and head coach of Twin Cities Kettlebell Club.

To find the best weightlifting shoes, we first spoke to trainers about what key features to look for when shopping and researched dozens of weightlifting shoes from top, trusted brands. We then tested the top 15 options for one month, where we strength-trained at least two to three times per week. This culminated in a total of 65 hours of testing, during which we evaluated each shoe for fit, comfort, stability, support, and value.

Top Picks

Best Overall:
Reebok Nano X4 at Amazon
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Best for Stability:
SALE
adidas The Total Shoes at Amazon $120 $45
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Best With Elevated Heel:
NOBULL Lifter Shoe at Nobullproject.com $149
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Best Grip:
TYR L-1 Lifter at Amazon $109
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Best Barefoot:
Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III at Amazon $160
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Most Breathable:
Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes at Amazon
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Best Budget:
Under Armour Commit 4 Training Shoes at Amazon $81
Jump to Review
Best for Cross-Training:
SALE
Nike Women's Metcon 9 at Amazon $160 $130
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Best for Beginners:
Converse Chuck Taylor at Amazon $60
Jump to Review

Best Overall

Reebok Nano X4

Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
Credit: Reebok
View on Amazon
$150
$101 at Zappos View on Reebok.com
Pros

  • Great stability for lower body exercises

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Never had to be adjusted during our workouts

Cons

  • Stiff ankle tab

  • Not for high-mobility exercises (sports, running)

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-16, men’s 4-14 Closure: Laces Upper Materials: Knit Cushioning: Foam Weight: 12 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 7 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for people looking for a shoe that provides excellent stability and support, especially for lower body exercises. 

Why We Love Them

Reebok's Nano X4 Training Shoes helped us hit a few squat PRs thanks to their stability, support, and lightweight, breathable design. The unisex shoe's heel gradually increases in height toward the back from mid-foot, so it feels like you're standing on a very slight wedge—which helps you get lower in your squats, lunges, and deadlifts. The elevation isn’t too steep, so it’s great for lifting but won’t feel uncomfortable when walking to and from the gym, says Umo Callins, CPT, a fitness coach based in Oklahoma City with 180Physique Nutrition and Fitness.

When we tested these shoes, we especially loved their solid base and flat sole, which helped even out the pressure we put on our feet without putting excess pressure on specific areas, like our heel, ball, or toes. This is important for movements like deadlifts and squats, where you want your feet to feel anchored to the floor to push off and lift heavier.

In addition to feeling especially supportive during lower body exercises, we found this shoe to be very light and breathable thanks to the air vents around the toe box. 

Potential Flaws

  • The ankle tab is stiff and pressed into our ankles when our socks weren’t tall enough. We tried to flex it down, but it doesn't seem to soften—though it's only a minor nuisance depending on your movements.
  • We found that the shoes don't excel for high-mobility movement patterns like sports or lateral movements.

Most Valuable Insight

"Weightlifting shoes are a tool, and ideally, once you start your weightlifting session, you don't have to think about them. I found these shoes to be precisely that—once I'm lifting, I don't think about them. They support me, but don’t distract me from my lifts." —Chase Mazur, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person walks across an outdoor court while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    The Reebok Nano X4 has a lightweight and breathable design with knit upper materials. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands outside on a court wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    The Reebok Nano X4 has a stiff ankle tab but is comfortable otherwise for lifting and walking. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person squats while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    These shoes offer excellent stability for lower body exercises. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person does lunges while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    These shoes are comfortable and require little to no adjustment during workouts. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A front view of a person wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    The Reebok Nano X4 has a very slight wedge ideal for squats, lunges, and deadlifts. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The back of a person wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
    The Reebok Nano X4 offers support for lower body exercises and breathable air vents. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person walks across an outdoor court while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
  • A person stands outside on a court wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
  • A person squats while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
  • A person does lunges while wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
  • A front view of a person wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes
  • The back of a person wearing the Reebok Unisex Nano X4 Training Shoes

Best for Stability

adidas The Total Shoes

adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
Credit: Zappos
$120
$45 at Amazon $120 at Zappos View on Adidas.com
Pros

  • Flat sole keeps you grounded

  • Closure strap makes for a better fit

  • No odor or moisture build-up

Cons

  • Not versatile enough for cross-training

  • Stiff

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-17, men’s 4-16 Closure: Laces and Velcro strap Upper Materials: Textile Cushioning: None Weight: 11 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for avid weightlifters looking for a specialized shoe with a flat sole that doesn’t have to work for other types of workouts. 

Why We Love Them

Adidas' The Total Shoes felt very supportive during lifts, thanks to the added Velcro strap over the laces that ensures a secure fit. Their zero heel-to-toe drop and lack of cushion helped us drive into the ground and feel planted while doing squats and deadlifts, which also helped us maintain better form. While testing, we felt less wobbly, and both our feet and ankles felt supported.

These shoes also grip very well and we felt very confident and stable in our footing. We also loved that these unisex shoes held up well during regular use and wear, and we didn't notice an odor or sweat build-up. Overall, we found them very supportive and stable for traditional weightlifting workouts.

Potential Flaws

  • These shoes aren't very flexible, and we could feel the stiff sole during lunges.
  • They lack cushion, so they're not ideal for cross-training or anything other than weightlifting.

Most Valuable Insight

"I really enjoyed the foot positioning these shoes kind of force you to have (no wiggling on too much cushion), particularly when I wore them for squats and RDLs. The best way to describe it is the feeling of being very planted. It felt like I had a little cleaner movement when it came to the range I felt good with while performing weightlifting exercises." —Cait Knoll, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person wears the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers while working out at the gym
    Adidas The Total Shoes hold up well during regular use and wear at the gym. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
    The adidas The Total Shoes have vibrant color options and a solid construction for weightlifting. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The Velcro strap on the top of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
    Adidas The Total Shoes have a Velcro strap over the laces to ensure a snug fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
    Adidas' The Total Shoes have a zero heel-to-toe drop to help you feel grounded while lifting. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The back of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
    Adidas The Total Shoes are grippy and have a flat bottom for stable footing. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A closeup of the stitching on the side of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
    Adidas The Total Shoes have supportive stitching and a stiff sole. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers while working out at the gym
  • A side view of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
  • The Velcro strap on the top of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
  • An overhead view of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
  • The back of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers
  • A closeup of the stitching on the side of the adidas The Total Shoes Unisex Weightlifting Sneakers

Best With Elevated Heel

NOBULL Lifter Shoe

NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
Credit: NOBULL
$149 at Nobullproject.com
Pros

  • Great for squatting

  • Canvas is durable and supportive

  • Great foot contact with the ground

Cons

  • Requires breaking in

  • Might not be suitable for beginners

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-11, men’s 7-16 Closure: Laces and Velcro strap Upper Materials: Canvas Cushioning: Foam Weight: 13.7 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 17.5 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for more experienced weightlifters looking to improve their squat performance or those with limited ankle mobility who could use an elevated heel. 

Why We Love Them

NOBULL makes some of the most anatomical weightlifting shoes, and the Canvas Lifter is an excellent choice for improving your squat form. Their elevated heel is great because it keeps your heels up, which allows your ankles to stretch a bit further, giving you better mobility so you can squat deeper. During tests, we found these to be really great at helping keep our feet planted on the ground.

We also love that NOBULL's Canvas Lifters are sturdy yet relatively flexible, and they don't feel too restrictive. The canvas construction is very durable, too—these shoes are resistant to wear and the material doesn't lend to scuffs the way other shoes do. We noticed that they felt more comfortable over time as our feet got used to them, and they even helped improve our form during lifts.

Also available in men's sizes at NOBULL.

Potential Flaws

  • While we felt more fatigued initially, this decreased with use, so just note that these shoes may require some breaking in.
  • Beginner weightlifters may need time adjusting to the elevated heel design. 

Most Valuable Insight

"I think the heel was a great height. I got just enough knee flexion without it being too much or negatively affecting me in other areas of my body during lifts." —Loren Brutsch, ISSA-CPT, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person stands on a wooden floor while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifters have a durable construction that's resistant to wear. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifter Shoe has an elevated heel to allow ankles to stretch. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifter Shoes are sturdy yet fairly flexible. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifter Shoe has a strong canvas structure that doesn't easily scuff. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person squats while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifter Shoe keeps heels slightly lifted, which is helpful for deep squats. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person places the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoes into a backpack
    The NOBULL Canvas Lifter Shoes feel more comfortable over time and can improve lifting form. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands on a wooden floor while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
  • A side view of the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
  • A person stands while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
  • An overhead view of the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
  • A person squats while wearing the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoe
  • A person places the NOBULL Women's Canvas Lifter Shoes into a backpack

Best Grip

TYR L-1 Lifter

TYR Women's L-1 Lifter
Credit: TYR
$109 at Amazon View on Tyr.com View on Swim2000.com
Pros

  • Great stability for squats

  • Keep feet grounded during lifts

  • Help with balance and form

Cons

  • Might not be suitable for beginners

  • Putting them on requires some effort

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6.5-15.5, men’s 4.5-14 Closure: Laces and Velcro straps Upper Materials: Polyester Cushioning: Not listed Weight: 17 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 21 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who They’re For

Best for experienced lifters looking for a shoe with an elevated heel to squat in.

Why We Love Them

TYR's L-1 Lifters have great grip and allow you to make contact with the ground with every part of your foot, which is super important for maintaining proper form when squatting. While these have an elevated heel similar to that of NOBULL's Canvas Lifters, we actually felt these shoes helped us maintain a better grip on the ground during lifts. We like that they also made us feel stable and supported on multiple surfaces in the gym. These shoes feature two adjustable Velcro straps at the midfoot, which really helped keep our feet secure during lifts.

Our feet and ankles felt very stable and supported thanks to the flat, grippy sole—and we almost felt locked into the ground. We also found that the heel height helped with knee flexion, giving us better mobility for deeper squats.

The elevated heel also helps with stability, which was apparent during squats. According to Callins, the 21-millimeter heel-to-toe drop allows for greater freedom of movement, which can lead to more force—and the more grip you have, the more force you can produce in lifting without slipping.

Potential Flaws

  • Beginner weightlifters may need time adjusting to the elevated heel design. 
  • Strapping them on requires a bit of effort. On our first attempt, we found that the cushioning along the ankle folded down when we tried to slip our foot in, and it crammed up between the ankle and shoe.

Most Valuable Insight

"The grip is fantastic and I love how the bottom of the shoe is completely flat. It feels like they're magnets to the ground; they’re so stable." —Loren Brutsch, ISSA-CPT, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person squats in the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
    TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes offer great ground contact that helps with stable form in squats. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
    The TYR L-1 Lifter Shoes have an elevated heel that can be helpful for mobility. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of the top of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
    The TYR L-1 Lifter Shoes have two adjustable Velcro straps for a secure fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoe showing the brand logo
    The TYR L-1 Lifter Shoe allows for great stability and has a sleek design. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person places a pair of TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes into a backpack
    The TYR L-1 Lifter Shoes offer great grip and stability for weightlifting. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person squats in the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
  • A side view of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
  • An overhead view of the top of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes
  • A side view of the TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoe showing the brand logo
  • A person places a pair of TYR Women's L-1 Lifter Shoes into a backpack

Best Barefoot

Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
Credit: Amazon
$160 at Amazon View on Vivobarefoot.com $170 at Backcountry
Pros

  • Very lightweight

  • Flexible

  • Puncture-resistant sole

Cons

  • Not enough cushioning for some

  • Laces tend to come undone

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 4.5-15, men’s 7-15 Closure: Laces Upper Materials: Polyester, polyurethane Cushioning: Foam Weight: 6.4 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for experienced lifters looking for a minimal-style shoe and a barely-there feel. 

Why We Love Them

Barefoot-style weightlifting shoes are a solid choice for experienced weightlifters who have proper form and lift heavy every day. We like Vivobarefoot's Primus Lite III Shoes because they help us feel grounded, stable, and confident enough to progress the weights we lift week after week safely. The thin midsole and durable outsole offer a close-to-ground feel and grippy traction—which is especially helpful for exercises that require you to push off the floor, like barbell squats.

We also love that these shoes feature lightweight foam cushioning that makes it easy for us to move around between sets. Plus, the puncture-resistant sole protects your feet from sharp objects and debris without sacrificing the barefoot feel.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Vivobarefoot.

Potential Flaws

  • Since these are barefoot shoes, they don't have any cushioning and may not offer enough support for beginners.
  • We noticed that the laces tend to come undone when walking around, but not during workouts.

Most Valuable Insight

"I love these shoes! They seriously helped improve my form while weightlifting, especially during squats! And they help me feel more secure as I lift heavy weights." —Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit product tester

  • An overhead view of a person wearing the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers outside on a brick path
    Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers are lightweight and flexible. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers
    The Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers have a close-to-the-ground feel. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers
    The Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers have grippy traction. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of a person wearing the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneaker
    These shoes are a minimalist style with a thin midsole and durable outsole. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of a pair of Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers
    The Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers have a puncture-resistant sole. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of a person wearing the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers outside on a brick path
  • A side view of the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers
  • A person wears the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers
  • An overhead view of a person wearing the Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneaker
  • An overhead view of a pair of Vivobarefoot Women's Primus Lite III Weightlifting Sneakers

Most Breathable

Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes

Under Armour SlipSpeed Training Shoes
Credit: Under Armour
View on Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Dicks Sporting Goods
Pros

  • Flat sole helps with form

  • Versatile enough for cross-training

  • No odor or moisture build-up

Cons

  • Loose heel fit

  • Lace system takes some time to get used to

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-14.5, men’s 3.5-13 Closure: BOA Fit System (a patented closure system that allows you to adjust the fit of the shoes with the turn of a dial) Upper Materials: Not listed Cushioning: Foam Weight: 10.8 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 2 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They’re For

Best for exercisers with sweaty feet who need a well-ventilated shoe. 

Why We Love Them

Under Armour's Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes are well-ventilated and kept our feet cool and comfortable throughout 15 lifting sessions. We didn't notice any odor or moisture getting in the way. We also appreciated the superb traction on these, as the shoes gripped the gym floor really well, which made us feel extra stable and confident while lifting.

These Under Armour shoes are also very versatile. They have some cushioning that makes them more comfortable for cardio workouts than other weightlifting shoes we tested. Callins recommends these UA shoes for cross-training workouts that involve sprinting and running. 

Potential Flaws

  • During tests, the shoe's heel felt loose, and we noticed some slippage in the heel when jumping and lunging.
  • The BOA click-and-turn lace system (which replaces traditional laces) took us a few tries to get comfortable with. Because of this, we also struggled to get the shoes tight enough.

Most Valuable Insight

"The breathability may be the best selling point of this shoe. My feet never felt hot and sweaty at all! Granted, I wasn't doing intense cardio in these shoes, but I still think the breathability factor is better than any shoe I've owned prior." —Nick Frasher, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person stands outside on concrete while wearing the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
    The Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes have a flat sole and great traction. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A side view of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
    The Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes are breathable and comfortable. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The heel on the back of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe
    The Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe offer some cushioning for cross-training. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person adjusts the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe
    The Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe has a click-and-turn lace system. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person places a pair of Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes into a duffel bag
    Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes are well ventilated to keep feet cool. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The treads on the bottom of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
    The Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes have great traction for gripping the gym floor. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
    There is a bit of a learning curve for the BOA lace system on these Under Armour shoes. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands outside on concrete while wearing the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
  • A side view of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
  • The heel on the back of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe
  • A person adjusts the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoe
  • A person places a pair of Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes into a duffel bag
  • The treads on the bottom of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes
  • An overhead view of the Under Armour Unisex UA SlipSpeed Training Shoes

Best Budget

Under Armour Commit 4 Training Shoes

Zappos Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
Credit: Zappos
$81 at Amazon View on Zappos View on Underarmour.com
Pros

  • Great breathability

  • Help maintain form while deadlifting

  • Stable and grippy

Cons

  • Narrow width

  • May not be suitable for advanced lifters

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12, men’s 7-15 Closure: Laces Upper Materials: Polyester Cushioning: Not listed Weight: 9.66 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for beginner to intermediate lifters who want a stable, grippy shoe at a relatively affordable price.

Why We Love Them

Under Armour's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes are noticeably stiff all around, but the mesh fabric across the forefoot gives enough flexibility for us to do lunges, squats, and jumps without any issue or discomfort. During testing, the shoe excelled in all areas where we had to rely on foot placement and stability to maintain our form throughout the moves. We felt confident increasing our weights during lunges, squats, deadlifts, and cleans because the shoes would keep our feet and form in place.

We found these shoes to be particularly good for deadlifts as they kept our feet flat on the ground, and the design of the shoe helped us focus on our mind-muscle connection. The grip is excellent, and the stability of the shoe also allowed us to add extra plates to our squats without fear of losing balance. 

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon and Under Armour.

Potential Flaws

  • They have a narrow construction, so they may not be suitable for people with wide feet.
  • Experienced lifters may prefer a shoe with more performance features, like an elevated heel.

Most Valuable Insight

"These shoes gave me the feeling of being connected to the floor. The traction is so grippy that my feet wouldn't budge unless I wanted them to. The shoe itself is also stiff, so combined with the traction it helped me focus on maintaining my form throughout my squats, deadlifts, and cleans." —Janice Desenberg, Verywell Fit product tester

  • A person lifts a barbell while wearing the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
    The Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes help you maintain form during deadlifts. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A front view of a pair of Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
    These shoes are pretty stiff overall but have mesh fabric that gives some flexibility for lunges. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The bottom treads on the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
    The Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes offer good traction to keep you stable. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The back of the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoe
    These training shoes are helpful for beginner to intermediate lifters at a reasonable price. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The back of a person wearing the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
    These training shoes keep feet flat on the ground and have excellent grip. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person holds up the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoe
    The Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoe offers stability in the gym. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person lifts a barbell while wearing the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
  • A front view of a pair of Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
  • The bottom treads on the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
  • The back of the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoe
  • The back of a person wearing the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoes
  • A person holds up the Under Armour Women's UA Commit 4 Training Shoe

Best for Cross-Training

Nike Women's Metcon 9

Nike Women's Metcon 9
Credit: Nike
$160
$130 at Amazon View on Dicks Sporting Goods View on Jdsports.com
Pros

  • Wide, flat heel for stability

  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Snug fit for support

Cons

  • Run a bit small, length-wise

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-15, men’s 4.5-13.5 Closure: Laces with hook-and-loop tab Upper Materials: Mesh Cushioning: Foam Weight: 12.4 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for exercisers who need one shoe for a variety of workouts, from lifting to cardio.

Why We Love Them

If your exercise routine is varied, you may consider buying one shoe to cover it all—and Nike's Metcon 9 Training Shoe is a solid choice. The shoe features soft foam cushioning that delivers lightweight responsiveness for quick cardio bursts, as well as a wide and flat heel (with a larger, built-in plate) for stability during strength training. We also love the rubber overlay that wraps the entire shoe to add durability.

On the upper, you'll find a hook-and-loop tab that keeps laces secure, which we noticed helps to add lateral stability and prevent tripping. We also appreciate that the breathable mesh upper is lightweight, hugging our feet and offering a locked-in feel. Plus, the medium-thick midsole provides good arch support.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon, Nike, and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Potential Flaws

  • We found that these run a bit short, length-wise. So if you're in between sizes, consider going a half size up and tightening the laces a little extra. 

Most Valuable Insight

"The Nike Metcons have excellent stability and kept my flat feet in place during deadlifts, barbell hip thrusts, and squats. These shoes get so much hype for being great cross-trainers, so I had to put them to the test and follow-up my lifting session with a quick cardio finisher—indeed, they felt comfortable and responsive throughout." —April Benshosan, Verywell Fit writer and product tester

  • Person squatting wearing Nike Women's Metcon 9
    The Nike Women's Metcon 9 offers a wide and flat heel for stability. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person wearing Nike Women's Metcon 9
    The Nike Women's Metcon 9 has a breathable mesh upper and medium-thick midsole with arch support. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person lifting heel of Nike Women's Metcon 9
    The Nike Women's Metcon 9 has soft foam cushioning and light responsiveness. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person squatting wearing Nike Women's Metcon 9
  • Person wearing Nike Women's Metcon 9
  • Person lifting heel of Nike Women's Metcon 9

Best for Beginners

Converse Chuck Taylor

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
Credit: Converse
$60 at Amazon $65 at Zappos $65 at Nordstrom
Pros

  • Flat midsole provides excellent stability

  • Versatile for wearing outside the gym

  • Machine-washable

Cons

  • Minimal arch support

  • Requires effort to lace on/off

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-18, men’s 3-16 Closure: Laces Upper Materials: Canvas Cushioning: Foam Weight: 13 ounces Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 millimeters Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for beginner to advanced lifters who don't need much arch support.

Why We Love Them

Converse's Chuck Taylor All Star Shoes are a classic for a reason. While this iconic sneaker is a stylish fashion staple, it's also a great option for strength training because of its stability, versatility, and comfort. The reliable shoe is made from a thick canvas upper that's machine-washable. When testing, we found that the flat, firm midsole provides ample stability, while the high-top fit and strong laces offer exceptional ankle support.

We also love how the durable rubber outsole helps us feel like we're gripping the floor during workouts, which allows for better control when dealing with heavy weights. The two eyelets along each side of the shoe enhance air circulation, which we appreciate during sweaty sessions. And with dozens of colors to choose from and unisex sizing, you may even want more than one pair.

Potential Flaws

  • These shoes have minimal arch support, so they may not be a great choice for those with plantar fasciitis who need more support.
  • The high-top style may take some effort to lace on and off.
  • Person working out in Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
    The Chuck Taylor All Star features a flat, comfortable sole perfect for stable lifting. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person wearing Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
    Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers offer minimal cushioning so you can feel your foot positioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person tying Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
    Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers have a thick canvas upper and are machine-washable. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person working out in Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
  • Person wearing Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers
  • Person tying Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneakers

What We’ve Updated

  • Since publishing our initial roundup of the best weightlifting shoes, we’ve tested six additional best-in-class pairs. Some of these shoes included newer models of previously tested pairs. Based on tester insights from this new test, we decided to rework some of our superlatives. 
  • We added six new shoes to this roundup and removed five that no longer meet our rigorous standards.
  • Reebok’s Nano X4 Training Shoe impressed us so much during testing that we chose to award it our best overall slot over our previous best overall shoe, Converse’s Chuck Taylor All Stars. We still kept Converse’s pair on the list as best for beginners.

What to Look for When Shopping for Weightlifting Shoes

  • Heel Height and Drop: A high heel on a weightlifting shoe helps achieve better knee and ankle mobility. The drop is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. These features can give you a mechanical advantage, particularly for Olympic-style lifts like cleans, snatches, and jerks, Kunde-Wright says.
  • Closure and Straps: You may want to opt for shoes with a roomy toe box and an added top strap for more stability and support. Weightlifting shoes should fit snugly, but not too tightly, and shoes with an added strap can help you customize the fit. 
  • Stability: In order to lift heavy weights, you need a shoe that keeps your feet in place. Shoes with a firm outsole will do just that. Reinforcements in the heel and midfoot can help you stay on your feet—no shifting around in your shoes. They'll also help you push through your legs with precision, no matter how heavy the weight you’re lifting.
  • Support: Supportive shoes are important for any physical activity, and that includes weightlifting. When shopping, look for shoes with grippy traction on the outsoles. And if you need additional arch or ankle support, consider shoes with ample cushioning and lateral stability.
  • Materials: Traditional-style weightlifting shoes are made from leather, which tends to last longer. Newer weightlifting shoes are made with synthetics and plastic, which can often be less expensive. If you tend to sweat a lot, opt for shoes made with a mesh upper for optimal breathability. Otherwise, the material you choose is up to your personal style preference.

How We Tested the Weightlifting Shoes

To find the best weightlifting shoes, we first spoke to experts to better understand what key features to look for in shoes for this type of workout. Then, we tested 15 pairs from top brands at home or at our gyms. When we test weightlifting shoes, we evaluate them based on the following key criteria.

  • Fit: Proper fit is important for any gym shoe, so we evaluate fit first. To do so, we try on each shoe and note whether or not it runs true to size. We consider the shoe's overall comfort level and whether or not it causes pinching, chafing, or blisters. We also note if our heel feels supported and stable or if it slides around.
  • Comfort: A comfortable upper feels snug and supportive, without being too tight. In testing, we pay attention to how stiff or flexible the upper feels. We also take note of whether the shoes have cushioning and help take pressure off of other areas of our body.
  • Breathability: Weightlifting shoes shouldn't hold on to moisture or odor. We evaluate whether the shoes allow air to circulate around our feet during workouts and if our feet feel hot or sweaty after wearing the shoes for an extended period.
  • Support: A good weightlifting shoe should feel stable and secure. We test how the shoes feel while performing squats, deadlifts, and other exercises. We also pay attention to whether heel height provides the right balance between stability and mobility for our lifting style.
  • Traction: Good traction means you'll feel more stable and confident during lifts. We consider the shoe's grip on the floor and if there are any surfaces or conditions where the shoes perform better or worse in terms of traction.
  • Flexibility: We test how well the shoes perform across different types of weightlifting exercises, such as squats, deadlifts, snatches, and cleans. Do the shoes allow for natural foot movement while still providing adequate support and stability? Are there any restrictions or limitations in movement due to the stiffness of the shoes?
  • Durability: Weightlifting can take a toll on shoes, so we evaluate how well they hold up to regular use and wear, if there are signs of premature wear or damage to the materials, and whether they maintain their structural integrity and support over time.
  • Value: To determine a value score, we look at the cost of each shoe after testing and consider if the shoes are fairly priced for the quality and features they offer. We prioritize weightlifting shoes that we would pay full price for, or even more, based on their features.

Our Experts

We spoke to two athletic coaches for advice on what to look for in weightlifting shoes and how a quality shoe can impact your weightlifting performance.

  • Jordan Kunde-Wright, Bioforce certified conditioning coach, kettlebell instructor, and founder and head coach of Twin Cities Kettlebell Club
  • Umo Callins, CPT, fitness coach based in Oklahoma City with 180Physique Nutrition and Fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How important are your shoes when you’re weightlifting?

Weightlifting-specific shoes are important if you perform highly technical and heavy compound exercises such as barbell squats, clean and jerks, or deadlifts. Your foot positioning and ability to stabilize and brace properly are essential for ensuring correct form and preventing injuries.

What are the benefits of shoes specific to weightlifting?

The benefits of weightlifting shoes are more support and better form, especially if your anatomy prevents you from squatting as deep as you prefer. Heel lifts can help you maintain a more upright posture and prevent butt wink due to better knee and hip flexion. A raised heel can also significantly protect lifters against back injury if their anatomy limits their mobility.

How can you make sure your weightlifting shoes fit right?

If you're buying weightlifting shoes online without trying them on first, check the website's size guide for measurements and measure your feet carefully, checking both your right and left as feet can be different sizes—be sure to look for a width that suits your feet. Your shoe should feel snug without squeezing your feet too tight, especially since it's common for feet to swell during exercise.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

April Benshosan is a Verywell Fit writer and experienced weight lifter (in fact, her favorite pastime is hitting PRs). April relies on Nike Metcon 9s and Metcon 6s to get her through leg days and short cardio sessions after upper body workouts. April has been covering fitness and health products for nearly a decade, since the start of her journalism career. Her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make educated decisions about their health.

Additional reporting by Mallory Creveling, CPT

Mallory Creveling, CPT, is a certified personal trainer and Verywell Fit writer who has been covering workout gear for over a decade. In addition to testing shoes on her own, she has also scoured reviews to find the best sneakers for her clients' strength training workouts. 

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2 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Legg HS, Glaister M, Cleather DJ, Goodwin JE. The effect of weightlifting shoes on the kinetics and kinematics of the back squat. J Sports Sci. 2017;35(5):508-515. doi:10.1080/02640414.2016.1175652

  2. Lee SP, Gillis CB, Ibarra JJ, Oldroyd DF, Zane RS. Heel-raised foot posture does not affect trunk and lower extremity biomechanics during a barbell back squat in recreational weight lifters. J Strength Cond Res. 2019;33(3):606-614. doi:10.1519/jsc.0000000000001938

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