Powerlifting is getting popular and popular these days. Just like other sports such as bodybuilding, weightlifting, running, powerlifting needs the proper equipment. When it comes to powerlifting, a pair of best powerlifting shoes is a must having a thing. But wait, are you confused about the weightlifting and powerlifting terms? Well, both may be the same but there is one prime difference between the two. Powerlifting incorporates three lift exercises (bench press, squat, and deadlift) whereas weightlifting features on one movement, one lift of the barbell (equipped with weight plates) over the head. But both are the primary forms of strong competition. Powerlifting shoes are totally different from other athletic shoes. The basic difference is that other shoes are designed for jogging or running whereas in powerlifting you are neither running nor walking. Instead, you are lifting heavy weights while standing in one place. But all powerlifting shoes are not the same. Some are best for a specific purpose while others are just a waste of time and money. The best powerlifting shoes can help to improve your confidence and lift more weight.
Weightlifting or powerlifting shoes are specially designed to support mobility, improve stability and increase platform feedback. Buying powerlifting shoes is not a difficult task but selecting the best powerlifting shoes for your specific needs with so many options available on the market can be a really frustrating one. Considering important aspects like shoe material, stitching quality, Anti-slip sole, and better lifting posture and many others like them. Without wasting more time, let’s take a look at the best powerlifting shoes for 2019. Don’t forget to read the buyer guide intended to help you make the right choice.
Best Powerlifting Shoes for 2020
- Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes- Best Squat Shoes for Men
Quick Features
- Reinforced stitching
- 1-year warranty
- Premium quality materials
- Raised heel (3.5 cm)
Nordic lifting powerlifting shoes is our first pick and the reasons are very valid for its selection. Nordic has been in the market since 2019 and has gained an excellent reputation for its best products. They produce the best powerlifting shoes, equipment along with cross-training accessories. This best pair of shoes feature 3.5 cm raised the heel and the 1.19 cm raised toes. It comes with reinforced stitching which is perfect to prevent it from falling apart during intense pressure. Smooth and rigid smooth anti-slip rubber material has been used in the sole to allow excellent stability on any type of floor.
The shoes are snug fit thus restricting lifter feet from unwanted movement. With raised heel, these powerlifting shoes ensure to improve lifting posture and life more weight. The sturdy Velcro strap and excellent stitching add to its durability. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty with multiple color options to select from. Overall the shoes are made for long-lasting.
2.Reebok Men’s Legacy Lifter Sneaker
Quick Features
- 100% Textile and Synthetic
- Rubber soles
- Forefoot flexes grooves
- Double straps
Reebok was the first to introduce the first-ever running shoes with spikes for athletes in the 1890s. Is there any athlete without a pair of Reebok shoes? With high heels 1.9 cm,) made especially for the squat position, the Reebok Legacy Filter is made for weight training. This best pair of powerlifting shoes are made from 100% textile and synthetic leather.
They also feature a stability strap with lateral support straps. Specially produced for full-length and low-profile EVA midsole, an anti-slip rubber has been perfectly utilized. Even with the raised heel, the forefoot flex grooves offer a natural walk. The pair is particularly designed for a little wider.
3.Adidas Men’s Powerlift 3.1: Adidas men’s powerlift 3.1 weightlifting shoes
Quick Features
Synthetic leather
Rubber sole
Removable Insole
Lockdown fit
Adidas has been ruling the athletic world for about 100 years like a king. This best powerlifting shoe features a lockdown fit and an extra-wide design that helps your foot to spread comfortably. One of the best things about this shoe pair is its snug-fitting upper along with a wide midfoot strap for additional support.
With 1.5 cm raised heel which is perfect for powerlifting, the shoes are manufactured from synthetic leather. The sole features anti-slip rubber to prevent you from any damages during powerlifting. One pleasant addition is the removable insole layer. Though each shoe pair is multi-colored, still there are various color options available. Without any doubt, this is one of the best powerlifting shoes one the markets but remember, the manufacturer has not specified any warranty.
4.Sabo Deadlift Shoes
Quick Features
- Fabric and synthetic leather
- New anatomical last
- Ultra-thin soles (2mm-5mm)
- 2 lateral straps
These Sabo shoes are one of the best powerlifting shoes designed by a Russian company for weightlifters. Sabo has been in the business for more than a decade. They are best known for producing some of the most innovative, unique and durable shoes. Offering a diverse range of long-lasting equipment for Boxing, Wrestling, Powerlifting, and Weightlifting and Kettle-bell sports, Sabo is getting popular for quality shoes.
These specialized deadlifting shoes are manufactured from synthetic leather. One of the best powerlifting shoes with 2mm-5mm ultra-thin sole also features a non-marking outsole made from premium-quality material. The surprising thing is there is not lifted heel. There are two lateral straps that allow tightening them as per your preference at the heel and ankle. The outsole also provides side support to allow you spreading without feet rolling over. It comes in four different color combinations.
5.Inov-8 Men’s Fastlift 335 Weightlifting Shoe:nov8 fastlift 400
Quick Features
- 100% Synthetic
- Rubber Sole
- Forefoot flexibility
- Lace-up closer
- Removable molded footbed
The British brand Inov-8 is passionate about creating special off-road running products for athletes. They are best known for producing one of the most flexible and lightweight shoes on the market. With anti-slip rubber feet, this best powerlifting shoe pair has been created from synthetic leather. It features a standard heel lift which is 1.65 cm.
Inov-8 Men’s Fastlift 335 features a nylon rip-stop upper along with a lightweight, welded overlays. The adjustable hook and loop have been used for a complete lock to prevent the foot from moving inside the shoes. Plush has been used to make a collar and tongue, so your feet remain comfortable.
6.Adidas Men’s Power Perfect lll- Cross Trainer
Quick Features
- Synthetic sole
- Hook-and-loop instep strap
- Adiwear outsole
- Die-cut wedge midsole
- Comfortable and flexible
The Adidas Power Perfect lll is best for all level lifters. One of the most appealing parts of these powerlifting shoes is their affordable price with such elegant features. They are specially engineered for powerlifting with the ability to support serious weight training.
They feature .75 inch heel lift which quite moderate for powerlifters. They narrow snug-fitting works best for lifters along with the slender to common width feet. The shoes offer perfect quality at affordable prices as compared to other powerlifting shoes. As far as the length is concerned, the shoes fit ideal to size. Though the midsole is a bit narrow the toe box has a decent width. They are made with mesh panel toe for extreme comfort and dry during intense lifting sessions.
7.Otomix Men’s Stringray Escape Powerlifting Shoes
Quick Features
- Ultra-lightweight
- Leather and synthetic material
- Thin Rubber sole
- Padded liner
- Perfect for powerlifting
These ultra-light best powerlifting shoes by Otomix offer premium support with perfect stability with a desirable range of motion. Though the brand is new and not much popular but the user’s reviews are really positive about its products. This best powerlifting shoe pair is perfect for wrestling, MMA, powerlifting, martial arts, bodybuilding, and weightlifting.
Made of leather and synthetic material, it’s an ideal gift for powerlifters. The ultra-thin rubber sole offers great grip during lifting. Though they are seriously lightweight there is no question about their durability. A padded liner offers extra ankle support to prevent you from injuries.
8.Nike Romaleos Men’s Weightlifting Shoes:nike romaleos 2 men’s weightlifting shoe
Quick Features
- Synthetic leather
- Rubber sole
- Two interchangeable insoles
- Nylon midfoot strap
- Lightweight
The 3 XD Men’s Romaleos by Nike are scientifically manufactured for the pro-level weightlifter. The best powerlifting shoes offer a stale foundation, supportive fit along with a contoured flex for perfect performance. The honeycomb-patterned plate for premium stability with Flywire technology and a classic strap offers great grip during workouts.
The Romaleos 3 XD features a durable rubber outsole, rubber soles, two interchangeable insoles and nylon midfoot strap for dynamic lockdown. The synthetic leather helps to reinforce mesh on the upper for breathability and support. The flexible forefoot feature helps the shoe to bend with the foot.
9.Sabo GoodLift Powerlifting Shoes
Quick Features
- 30 mm wide lateral strap
- Leather material
- Non marking outsole
- Durable construction
GoodLift is a new addition to the Sabo collect. This ultra-durable shoe is best for lifter who is looking for a powerlifting shoe without a heel. With all-new non-marking outsole, the shoe feature special pattern for comfortable grip. It has minimum thickness (5 mm) and the pattern on the bottom sole is engineered for premium grip against the floor.
The upper part is made from thick and supportive leather along with a man-made liner. This best powerlifting shoe for men also features a 30 mm highly durable metatarsal strap for ultra secure fitting. These shoes are highly recommended for bench press, deadlifts and squats.
10.Adidas Men’s Powerlift 4
Quick Features
- Rubber sole
- Lock down Velcro strap
- Solid heel
- Nylon material
This is a solid lifting option with a pretty good price. The new Adidas model features a solid heel offering powerlifters a great grip on the floor. The laces are fairly long and the lock down Velcro strap is just perfect. High quality nylon material has been used in the shoe manufacturing. These shoes are specially designed for powerlifting/weightlifting, so don’t use them for cardio or light running.
With less than half an inch heel, rubber sole and ultra comfort, these best powerlifting shoes offers excellent stability. The shoes have midsole wedge, wide instep strap for entire lockdown and rubber outsole to keep you firmly planted during lifting. Its lightweight upper has been created from durable canvas.
How to Choose Best Powerlifting Shoes- The Buyers Guide
When looking for best powerlifting shoes, there are some important things you should keep in mind. Having a proper know-how about the quality of a specific product ensures that you are spending money on right thing. So when you go out to shop for powerlifting shoes, here are some important things to consider before purchasing powerlifting shoes.
Stability and Support for Powerlifters
The prime benefits of best powerlifting shoes are the stability and support for powerlifters. When you are looking to lift heavy weights, it is essential to have some solid support from your shoes stability. Carefully check the sole of the shoe and make sure that it is stiffer than the common running shoes. The case is simple when you are shopping online as there are reviews from users to help you make the best possible selection.
Best powerlifting shoes are rigid enough that they provide best support to your ankles and also the sole is strong enough to withstand under heavy weights. Through proper stability, they offer great support for your knees. Modern shoes come with different materials such as some manufacturer still use wood in the shoes to make them rigid and firm. However, it depends on your personal preference. Along with the quality material, pay full attention that the sole of the shoe does not compress easily.
Lifting Capacity
A good quality shoe supports the body weight along with weight you are lifting. Many quality shoes are made of quality materials such as leather and nylon that can perfectly withstand heavy weights and keep their firmness and shape for long time period. Carefully check the load capacity and material quality provided by the manufacturer before making a decision. Again, take a look at user reviews provided by real product users for best selection.
Shoe Design
How can anyone deny the importance of show design? Well, to be honest, it’s all about your style and taste. Some people focus on their training rather than to search for the perfect shoe design. But manufactures are well aware about their customers taste and thirst for the new designs. Most popular brands such as Adidas, Nike, Sabo and many other have produced stylish powerlifting shoes to fit your personal preferences.
Heel Height
Various models offer lifted heel for powerlifters comfort. This is one of the most important parts of shoe design because it can affect the overall performance of a lifter. Different quality weight lifting shoes come with a lifted heel of ¾ of an inch. You can also find powerlifting shoes with lower and higher heels. Consider you needs and preferences first and then go for it.
Material
Carefully consider the used material in a shoe. A quality material makes a quality shoe. Cheap material cannot withstand the immense pressure of powerlifters and they wear out quickly. A breathable material is best to prevent your feet from sweating. Synthetic leather and nylon materials are best for powerlifting shoes.
Fitting and Finishing
Make sure that your desired pair of shoe fits you properly. No one wants to buy a great shoe and then have to return it back as it doesn’t fit properly. Wearing small shoes for powerlifting can pinch your toes and may feel seriously uncomfortable. It can badly affect your lifting ability and may lead to severe injuries because you are going to use them for powerlifting. Other the other hand, a shoe that is slightly big than your size also affects your control, stability, comfort and positioning because your feet may splay out too much. Such lack of stability may affect your technique and form and can cause injuries too.
If your feet are wide, narrow toe is not made for you. Check out the fitting according to your foot and also width of the foot properly. In powerlifting shoes, the toe boxes can be narrow than common gym shoes. It can cause discomfort or pain if you have wider foot.
When it comes to finishing, make sure that your desired shoe is durable enough to withstand the heavy weights and the frequent use too. The shoes should not wear our or lose shape quickly.
Other Features
Powerlifting shoes have some sort of midsole strap or in-step strap. This feature is very useful as it helps the foot to securely lock in a place. Grippy sole plays vital role for best traction during powerlifting.
Conclusion
Powerlifting shoes are one of the most overlooked gear piece for every lifter. After in-depth analysis of about 4 days, we have shared the best powerlifting shoes available on the market with all their pros and cons. There are premium shoes like Adidas and Nike that are highly durable but they are expensive. That’s why we have selected some budget friendly options for you in this list. Take a look at your needs first, check out the key features and select the best powerlifting shoes to take your lifting to next level.
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