Weightlifting shoes should have a sturdy sole to support the added stress of weights. Casual lifters can opt for cross trainers, but heavier lifters should choose shoes with a low, solid wedge heel and good mobility. Avoid lightweight shoes with foam, air pockets, or gel heels.
The best weightlifting shoe will be a pair specifically designed with the logistics of weightlifting in mind. There are different shoe designs for all kinds of sports, and just like you need cleats for soccer or spikes for cross-country running, there are unique specifications for weightlifting. Slight variations based on personal preference are of course common, but in general you should look for a shoe with a good, sturdy sole that won’t sag under compression. This will give you enough support under the added stress of the weights.
A casual athlete will likely have more relaxed standards for weightlifting shoes than an individual who lifts professionally. If he is not lifting very heavy weights or only lifts occasionally or at a low intensity, it will be easier to find weight lifting shoes that he likes. Most people who work for recreation don’t buy shoes designed specifically for weightlifting, instead opting for cross trainers or a generic all-purpose shoe. Athletes who combine cardiovascular exercises in the same workout as weight lifting will likely choose a shoe that is sufficient for both activities.
Even if you fall into the recreational weightlifter category, there are a few key elements to consider when choosing a shoe. Shoes with foam, air pocket, or gel heels are great for running and other cardiovascular exercises because they remain lightweight while providing cushioning to protect joints from repetitive impact. However, models like this are not ideal for weightlifting, as the lightweight materials can compress unevenly under the added pressure of the weights. Compression can cause minor variations in form, which has the potential to make the exercise less effective, cause injury, or both. It can also contribute to loss of balance, which can be dangerous, especially if you’re lifting very heavy weights.
For lifting heavy weights, you should look for a shoe with a firm, solid sole. The best weightlifting shoes have a unique detail: a low, solid wedge heel. This low heel resists compression and will help keep you stable if you’re completing exercises that would otherwise require you to lift your heels off the ground. Adding a low heel ensures that you will be able to maintain maximum balance.
Another factor that will help you choose the best weightlifting shoes is the amount of mobility they allow. Your weightlifting shoes should provide some support, but not at the expense of mobility, especially for the ankles. Even if you’re an amateur weightlifter, you should avoid shoes that impede movement.
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