9 Best Weightlifting Shoes to Buy in 2023

Weightlifting Shoes are an invaluable tool in the world of training.

A proper pair of “lifters” can increase support, put you in better lifting positions, and enhance performance.

But not all weightlifting shoes are built the same, so it’s important to understand the different types and specs.

They can range in materials, elevation, stability, size, price, etc.

To save you time and hassle, I’ve tested and researched dozens of weightlifting shoes to determine the best ones for your money. Whether you’re an Olympic weightlifter, powerlifter, CrossFitter, or just a casual lifter, this article has you covered.

Best Weightlifting Shoes in 2023

• Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall: Reebok Legacy Lifter 3
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet: TYR L-1 Lifters
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Narrow Feet: Nike Romaleos 4
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Squats: Adidas Adipowers 3
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit: Reebok Nano X3
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners: Adidas Powerlift 5
• Best Budget Lifting Shoes: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes
• Best for Deadlifts: Adidas The Total
• Best Everyday Training Shoes: GORUCK Ballistic Trainers

Compare the Best Lifting Shoes

The table below compares the best weightlifting shoes based on specs, price, and more.

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	Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 See More	TYR L-1 Lifters See More	Nike Romaleos 4 See More	Adidas Adipower 3 See More	Reebok Nano X3 See More	Adidas Powerlift 5 See More	Do-Win Lifting Shoes See More	Adidas The Total See More	GORUCK Ballistic Trainers See More
Price	$220	$199.99	$200	$198+	$140+	$120	$95	$100	$125
Award	Best Overall	Best Wide Feet	Best Narrow Feet	Best for Squats	Best CrossFit	Best for Beginners	Best Budget	Best for Deadlifts	Best Everyday
Sizing	True to Size	True to Size	Runs Small	True to Size	True to Size	True to Size	True to Size	True to Size	True to Size
Toe Box Width	Neutral	Wide	Narrow	Narrow/Neutral	Neutral	Narrow/Neutral	Neutral	Neutral	Neutral
Heel Height	22mm	21mm	20mm	22mm	7mm	15mm	19mm	0mm	8mm
Heels/Midsole	TPU	TPU	TPU	TPU	Floatride EVA	EVA	TPU	EVA	EVA
Straps	Single	Dual	Dual	Single	N/A	Single	Dual	Single	N/A

Reviews of the Best Lifting Shoes

Every shoe on this list (and more) has been hands-on tested at Garage Gym Lab. In addition to using each of them in numerous workouts, I’ve compared their specs against a database of other lifting shoes, read hundreds of user reviews, and gathered insights from other industry experts.

Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 – Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall

• Price: $220
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Neutral
• Heel Height: 22mm
• Heel/Midsole: TPU
• Straps: Single

Summary

The Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 is my top pick overall. These shoes are supportive, comfortable, durable, and have a classic aesthetic.

My favorite quality of these shoes is the heel design. Like others in its class, this shoe has a thermoplastic polyurethane midsole (TPU), which is durable, non-compressive, and great for weightlifting. I also prefer the 22mm elevated heel, especially for squats.

However, the most unique feature is that the heel comes up higher on the boot, creating one of the most supportive shoes on the market. An additional TPU clip behind the Achilles helps prevent heel slippage on more dynamic movements.

Another unique feature of these shoes is the tongue Pump that Reebok introduced in this version. While I love the concept, it doesn’t meaningfully affect performance or tightness. It’s essentially a novelty – fun to use but not very effective.

The upper is built with a textile material that feels similar to soft leather. It’s comfortable, breathable, and plays nicely with the mesh elements throughout the rest of the upper. You’ll also find a single strap for extra midfoot security.

The outsole on these shoes is impressively grippy. Whether you’re lifting on wood or rubber, you’ll have no issues with them sticking to the floor.

Lastly, while not as wide as the TYR L-1 Lifters, the Legacy Lifter 3’s are wider than the Romaleos and Adipowers. They’re well-balanced and should fit most foot anatomies.

Full Review: Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 Review

TYR L-1 Lifters – Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet

• Price: $199.99
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Wide
• Heel Height: 21mm
• Heel/Midsole: TPU
• Straps: Dual

Summary

The TYR L-1 Lifters were built alongside Squat University’s Aaron Horschig to provide a wider toe box. The main benefit is that a wide toe box creates more room for toe splay, which can increase natural stability.

The L-1 weightlifting shoes are noticeably roomier than others, making them excellent for people with neutral and wide feet. I find these to be some of the most comfortable shoes on the market. The ability to spread the toes is helpful for enhancing stability, but don’t expect magical results.

These shoes have a rigid TPU midsole with a 21mm heel height. Although I prefer 22mm, the difference isn’t very noticeable, and I found the L-1’s to perform well across the lifting spectrum.

Another great feature of these shoes is the dual strap system, which creates excellent security through the midfoot. Although I wish the straps were thicker, the velcro is strong and provides good length.

The simple upper design minimizes fail points, and I like the texture and overall breathability. I also like the overall look of these shoes, especially the white and black colorways.

I use the TYR L-1 Lifters regularly in my training. If you have wider feet, I highly recommend them. Conversely, narrow-footed lifters are better off looking elsewhere.

Full Review: TYR L-1 Lifter Review

Nike Romaleos 4 – Best Weightlifting Shoes for Narrow Feet

• Price: $200
• Sizing: Runs Small
• Toe Box Width: Narrow
• Heel Height: 20mm
• Heel/Midsole: TPU
• Straps: Dual

Summary

If the TYR L-1 Lifters are the best for wide feet, then the Nike Romaleos 4 are the best for narrow feet. The Romaleos have notoriously narrow toe boxes and run small, so I recommend most people order a half-size up.

The Romaleos are among the most respected weightlifting shoes out there. The 2nd version is considered by many to be the best lifting shoe ever. While the 3rd version was a major letdown, the 4th returned several elements that made the 2nd so good.

For starters, Nike reintroduced the ‘power bridge’ in this version. This ultra-supportive TPU is rigid and wraps the boot beautifully. Coupled with the dual strap system, these are the most secure lifting shoes I’ve ever worn. Although the straps show cosmetic blemishes rather easily, I’m impressed with their durability and love that Nike uses metal buckles (uncommon).

Nike also ditched the Flywire upper and elected for a synthetic fabric, which is a huge improvement. It’s pliable and comfortable, but not the most breathable.

The most unique feature of the Romaleos 4 is the winged outsole. Although not as grippy as others, the wider base at the heel and forefoot is outstanding for lateral stability. Olympic weightlifters will especially love this design.

Lastly, these shoes have a 20mm height. While this is a balanced height for most, those who prefer a taller elevation may want more. Ultimately, these are excellent shoes, but you may find them uncomfortable if you have wide feet.

Full Review: Nike Romaleos 4 Review

Adidas Adipower 3 – Best Weightlifting Shoes for Squats

• Price: $198-$220
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Narrow/Neutral
• Heel Height: 22mm
• Heel/Midsole: TPU
• Straps: Single

Summary

My very first pair of weightlifting shoes were the original Adidas Adipowers from 2014 – I still have them in my collection. These are tried and true shoes with a great reputation on the platform.

My favorite feature of these shoes is the 22mm TPU heel, which is my preferred height for squats. I love the support the Adipowers provide for squatting and find the midsole very effective.

This shoe has a comfortable, sustainably-made ripstop upper that breathes nicely and breaks in quickly. However, the flexibility doesn’t give me as much security through the midfoot as others, even with the strap. Therefore, I use it exclusively for squats, squat variations, and some accessories.

The Adipower 3 toe box is fairly narrow but can accommodate lifters with a neutral foot width. Most are safe to order true to size, but wide-footed individuals should consider skipping this model in favor of wider shoes (e.g., TYR L-1 and Reebok Legacy Lifter 3).

Aesthetically, these rank highly for me. I love the clean design and appreciate the mix of materials and textures.

The Adipower 3 shoes are excellent for squats and good for Olympic weightlifting. Oly lifters may prefer more security, but with the grippiest outsole in the game, there are benefits for dynamic movements.

Full Review: Adidas Adipower 3 Review

Reebok Nano X3 – Best Lifting Shoes for CrossFit

• Price: $140-$150
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Neutral
• Heel Height: 7mm
• Heel/Midsole: Floatride Energy Foam

Summary

Now in their 13th iteration, the Reebok Nanos have become one of the most popular shoes in CrossFit. While you can use traditional weightlifting shoes in some CrossFit workouts, cross-training shoes like the Nano X3 are a better match.

The most unique feature of the X3s is the Lift & Run (L.A.R.) Chassis System, which Reebok designed to blend different types of training. This midsole provides a responsive, cushioned experience while running and jumping and a supportive base while lifting. Compared to the blockier heels on some trainers, I especially like these shoes for running outside and on the AssaultRunner Elite.

Furthermore, Reebok’s Floatride Energy Foam performed well in my testing. It’s an EVA foam, so you’ll experience some compression relative to TPU when lifting heavy, but it’s versatile and built for cross-training. If you’re looking for a more barbell-specific training shoe, I recommend the Nike Metcon 8’s.

With a neutral toe box and a Flexweave upper, the Nano X3 is comfortable and fits true to size. I’m impressed with the overall quality and love the different colorways. In my experience, the Reebok Nano X3 is the most well-rounded shoe for CrossFit.

Full Review: Reebok Nano X3 Review

Adidas Powerlift 5 – Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners

• Price: $120
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Narrow/Neutral
• Heel Height: 15mm
• Heel/Midsole: EVA
• Straps: Single

Summary

The Adidas Powerlift 5 weightlifting shoes are a versatile option for beginners and budget shoppers. Unlike premium lifters like the Adidas Adipowers, these shoes (and others like it) use different materials and a lower heel height.

The biggest difference between these and more expensive shoes is that the heel is made of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). EVA isn’t as durable or rigid as TPU, but it’s still a solid material for weightlifting shoes. Because EVA compresses more under heavier loads, I recommend these shoes for beginners and recreational lifters.

Another key distinction is that these shoes have a 15mm heel, 22% lower than the higher-elevated shoes. While you’ll still benefit from the improved positioning, the performance may not be as good depending on your lifting style. That said, I find lower heels more versatile, making them a great all-purpose option.

The mesh upper of the Powerlift 5’s is very comfortable and comes with a single midfoot strap. The toe box is also more spacious than most, contributing to a stable experience. I also like the rear finger loop for easy access.

If you’re just starting your strength journey or not planning to lift ultra-heavy, I recommend the Adidas Powerlift 5 weightlifting shoes. However, serious lifters with a bigger budget will benefit from upgrading to a higher-end model with better specs.

Full review: Adidas Powerlift 5 Review

Do-Win Weightlifting Shows – Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes

• Price: $95
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Neutral
• Heel Height: 19mm
• Heel/Midsole: TPU
• Straps: Dual

Summary

There isn’t a better budget weightlifting shoe than the Do-Wins, in my experience. These have impressive specs and solid performance at under $100.

Unlike most budget options with EVA midsoles, the Do-Win shoes have a TPU heel. While it doesn’t look and feel as premium as more expensive options, it’s rigid and suitable for heavy lifting.

At 19mm high, it falls between conventional budget lifters (~15mm) and premium options (~22mm). I prefer it to the lower elevation models but found it less optimal compared to higher models. For someone who doesn’t have or know their height preferences, the Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes could be a perfect middle ground.

The upper is built with synthetic leather and mesh components. Given their stiffer construction, I found these shoes needed a longer break-in period than most. Without perforated holes, they’re also not as breathable.

Visually, these aren’t my favorite lifters. They remind me somewhat of bowling shoes, and I wish they came in more than one colorway.

However, the dual strap system is a great feature, especially at this price point. The overall support and structure of these shoes is quite good, making them a contender for most lifting styles.

If you’re looking for a budget weightlifting shoe and want premium stability, you won’t find a better option than the Do-Wins.

Full review: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes Review

Adidas The Total – Best Shoes for Deadlifts

• Price: $100
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Neutral
• Heel Height: 0mm
• Straps: Single

Summary

Not all people or movements benefit from an elevated heel. For example, the deadlift is better suited for a flat, minimalist shoe. People have used Chuck Taylors, wrestling shoes, or even just their bare feet on deadlifts for years. I’ve used them all, and they’re each suitable. However, if you’re looking for a supportive and purpose-built deadlift shoe, the Adidas “The Total” is my recommendation.

This shoe has a zero-drop profile, meaning it’s flat from the heel to the toes. In addition to great deadlift performance, this is a contender for general strength training and bodybuilding. Those who prefer squatting with flat shoes will also appreciate these shoes, making them versatile for the right person.

The textile upper of The Total shoes is comfortable and nice-looking. It comes with a single midfoot strap, which you can adjust based on your preferences and deadlift style. For instance, sumo deadlifters may prefer a tighter fit, while conventional deadlifters can go looser.

The toe box on these shoes is wider than most, which is ideal for deadlifts. You can effectively spread your toes out and create a solid base, whether you pull conventional or sumo. There is a noticeable difference between the Adidas The Total and Chuck Taylors/wrestling shoes, in my experience.

GORUCK Ballistic Trainers – Best Everyday Training Shoes

• Price: $125
• Sizing: True to Size
• Toe Box Width: Neutral
• Heel Height: 8mm
• Heel/Midsole: EVA

Summary

The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers are some of the most comfortable, durable, and stylish trainers I’ve used. I like them so much that I bought multiple pairs in different colorways.

The key feature of the Ballistic Trainers is durability. The shoe’s forefoot is constructed with a comfortable and very breathable knit fabric, while the midfoot and heel are wrapped in 1680 Cordura. You’ll often find Cordura on workout sandbags and weight vests because of their abrasion resistance qualities. This makes these shoes ideal for intense training, rope climbs, etc.

The midsole is EVA but includes a TPU heel counter for additional support. Coupled with an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, these are my favorite trainers for weightlifting.

GORUCK is well known for their rucking gear, and these shoes were designed with that in mind. Outdoor enthusiasts will love these shoes for their durability and performance. The outsole is especially grippy and uniquely patterned for traction.

Even though I love wearing trainers for their comfort, they don’t always match my everyday outfits. The GORUCK Ballistic Trainers feel and perform like gym shoes but have a casual aesthetic that goes with everything. My wife also approves, which I why I now own multiple pairs!

Benefits of Weightlifting Shoes

They Improve Positioning

Proper weightlifting shoes include elevated heels that allow you to maintain better lifting positions. Most notably, you’ll experience increased forward knee translation, a more open hip angle, and a more upright chest (1)(2). This is a more efficient position for squats and classic weightlifting movements and can also be safer by discouraging lumbar hyperextension (3).

They’re More Stable and Supportive

Weightlifting shoes include several support measures, including hard midsoles, metatarsal straps, grippy outsoles, and heel clips. Increased support under heavy loads benefits safety, performance, and confidence.

They Increase Force Production

Weightlifting shoes include harder midsoles that distribute force better than squishy ones. Softer foams naturally absorb more force and compress under heavy loads. This reduces stability while creating a less efficient energy transfer into the barbell.

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How to Pick the Best Lifting Shoes

With dozens of weightlifting shoes claiming to be the best, how do you choose the right pair? At Garage Gym Lab, I’ve made it our quest to highlight products that are truly worth your money through in-depth reviews, comprehensive equipment spec sheets, and a network of trusted equipment experts.

Here are the key factors I considered when selecting the best weightlifting shoes in 2023:

Heel Height

One of the most important features of weightlifting shoes is the elevated heel. True weightlifting shoes generally have effective heel heights of 15mm-22mm. Training shoes are normally in the 6mm-8mm range, and minimalist shoes will have as little as zero drop.

Understanding your body leverages and training goals will help determine the best heel height for you. For instance, Olympic weightlifters may prefer a 22mm height for increased mobility, while a deadlifter should go for a minimal drop.

Midsole Type

The midsole is the support piece of a weightlifting shoe and is commonly known as the heel or wedge, even though it runs the whole length of the shoe. Lifting shoes mainly come in two midsole materials:

• Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) – Found mostly in higher-end weightlifting shoes, TPU is ultra-durable and supportive. It’s known for being non-compressive, which is ideal for lifting heavy weights.
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) – EVA is commonly found in training shoes and mid-range lifters. It’s not as supportive as TPU and experiences more compression. This type is ideal for general strength training, CrossFit, etc.

Some shoes also offer wood or stacked leather, but these are less common and generally don’t last as long.

Upper Materials

The upper makes up the bulk of the shoe, so material selection is important for comfort, durability, breathability, and looks. You’ll commonly find fabrics (ripstop, mesh, knit, etc.) and leather (natural and synthetic). High-quality shoes will include reinforced seams, tight stitching, and consistent gluing.

Outsole Traction

Outsole traction is important whether you’re using weightlifting shoes for squats or dynamic Olympic movements. The last thing you want is your feet shifting around under heavy load. Weightlifting shoes should have rubber outsoles and appropriate textures/patterns for gripping rubber and wood platforms.

Straps

Proper weightlifting shoes include metatarsal straps to increase midfoot security and overall tightness. Shoes with single straps are adequate for most people, but dual straps provide additional support and may be better for more dynamic lifts. Straps should include reinforced stitching and ample velcro surface area.

Fit

Weightlifting shoes should fit tightly, but not so tight that it causes discomfort or negative performance. Depending on the manufacturer, I recommend most people order a half-size down relative to their training shoe size.

For example, I wear a 10.5 in training shoes (Nike Metcon, Reebok Nano, GORUCK Ballistic, etc.) but a 10 in most weightlifting shoes. Refer to the manufacturer’s sizing guide and read reviews to understand how a shoe fits.

Toe box width is generally a good indicator of fit. While not applicable to everyone, a wider toe box relative to your foot anatomy can increase support by allowing you to spread your toes.

Weight

Lifting shoes can vary by several ounces depending on the manufacturer and model. While weight is largely a personal preference, there are performance benefits depending on your lifting style.

For example, an Olympic lifter with slower feet may prefer a lightweight shoe, while a powerlifter may want one that’s heavier and more grounded.

Budget

As with any purchase, budget is a consideration. High-quality weightlifting shoes can cost as much as $300, but there are great options from $100-$200. If you’re a serious lifter, I recommend investing in a quality pair of shoes that will perform well for years.

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Analysis and Test Results

I rated each pair of shoes using the same criteria: build quality, stability, versatility, aesthetics, and price. I used each shoe in numerous ways, including squats, deadlifts, Olympic lifts, and general strength training.

Using a combination of hands-on testing and spec comparisons, I calculated a score from 1-10. With an overall score of 9.2, the Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 and TYR L-1 Lifters scored the highest.

Build Quality

Overall, I’m impressed with the build quality of all of these shoes, especially those in the higher price range. Because budget lifters don’t use the same heavy-duty materials, durability will naturally be lower.

I found the Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 and GPORUCK Ballistic Trainers particularly well-constructed. Conversely, the Do-Win Weightlifting shoes score the lowest due to areas of inconsistency and the synthetic leather upper.

Stability

The TYR L-1 Lifters and the Nike Romaleos 4 offer excellent stability. The wider toe box on the TYR provides more natural stability because you can spread your toes more than others. The winged outsole on the Romaleos offers a wide, rigid base with excellent lateral stability.

Trainers inherently aren’t going to be as supportive, so the Nano X3 and Ballistic Trainers scored the lowest in this category. The EVA heel on the Adidas Powerlifts also lags behind the TPU offerings.

Versatility

The Nano X3 and GORUCK Ballistic trainers scored the highest since they’re cross-training shoes. You can use them in numerous lifting contexts, including weightlifting, running, etc.

While you can use the Adidas Totals in traditional lifting, it scored the lowest since they’re purpose-built for deadlifts.

Aesthetics

This is purely subjective, and each of these shoes scored reasonably close to one another. I like white and black shoes, as you may have noticed in the images, and I’m pleased with how most of these look.

I especially like the Legacy Lifters, Romaleos, and Adipowers.

Price

For less than $100, the Do-Win weightlifting shoes are hard to beat. Most TPU shoes are 2x that price, making these a great option for budget shoppers looking for stability.

The Legacy Lifter 3 and Adidas Adipowers tip the scales at over $200, giving them the lowest score in the price category.

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Honorable Mentions

• Reebok Lifter PR 3 – The Lifter PR 3 from Reebok is a solid budget pick. Like the Powerlift 5 from Adidas, these shoes have an EVA midsole but with an 18mm heel height. Both offer a single strap and fit true to size, but the Powerlift 5’s have a slightly wider toe box. I also felt the Adidas shoes have a more comfortable upper.
• Nike Savaleos – The Nike Savaleos fall into the budget category but are on the higher end. The biggest difference is that these have a TPU heel compared to EVA, so they’re a solid option for those looking for extra stability. Their toe box is noticeably narrower than the others, so you should order a half-size up.
• Nike Metcon 8 – The Metcons are some of the most popular cross-trainers, especially in CrossFit. The mesh upper is lightweight, and I like the responsiveness of the Nike React Foam. However, I don’t like them as much as the Nanos for running, and the aesthetic misses the mark for me. Then again, they are slightly less expensive, which is something to consider.
• NOBULL Trainer – The NOBULL Trainers are a popular CrossFit option. These shoes have a smaller 4mm drop and deeply grooved outsoles for solid traction. The single-piece upper construction is durable, and the EVA sole is comparable to others. The NOBULLs have a simple aesthetic and are slightly more expensive than others. If you’re a CrossFitter, these are strong contenders.

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FAQs about Lifting Shoes

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Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Reebok Legacy Lifter 3 is the most well-rounded weightlifting shoe on the market. They offer great specs, excellent support, and an accessible fit for most people.

The TYR L-1 Lifters are my runner-up and the best option if you have wide feet. The larger toe box improves support and comfort, and the dual straps provide additional security.

If you’re looking for a budget option, I recommend the Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes. The TPU heel and dual straps are rare at this price, and they’re proven performers.

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References

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. Southwell DJ, Petersen SA, Beach TA, Graham RB. The effects of squatting footwear on three-dimensional lower limb and spine kinetics. J Electromyogr Kinesiol. 2016;31:111-118. doi:10.1016/j.jelekin.2016.10.005
3. Sato K, Fortenbaugh D, Hydock DS. Kinematic changes using weightlifting shoes on barbell back squat. J Strength Cond Res. 2012;26(1):28-33. doi:10.1519/JSC.0b013e318218dd64