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VS Athletic Weightlifting Shoe Review 2024

last updated: Jan 07, 2021

Weightlifting shoes are an important part of your workout. They provide you with the angles in feet that you need to get the best lift. We want to help you find the very best, most capable and well-built shoes. They may not be the most fashionable, but these are the brands which will help you get the job done. It is important to find the shoes which are going to take care of your feet, so we have done some of the research for you. Check out our list of the ten best on the market.

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

icon
Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes
92.6/100 our score
Features
95
Comfort
95
Durability
89
Effectiveness
90
Materials
94
Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes
Why is it better?

Come in two colors

Velcro strap gives added support

Comes in a nice box perfect for gifting

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Researched Sources
35
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
11k
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
26
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
14
Products Evaluated
Sorting Options
Features Comfort Durability Effectiveness Materials By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Features
98 %
Comfort
97 %
Durability
90 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.6
Features
95 %
Comfort
95 %
Durability
89 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
$99.88
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
Features
90 %
Comfort
95 %
Durability
87 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
90 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
Features
90 %
Comfort
90 %
Durability
87 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
Features
85 %
Comfort
90 %
Durability
86 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
$129.00
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.2
Features
85 %
Comfort
85 %
Durability
86 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
Features
85 %
Comfort
84 %
Durability
85 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
84 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Features
80 %
Comfort
82 %
Durability
85 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.4
Features
80 %
Comfort
82 %
Durability
85 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.2
Features
80 %
Comfort
81 %
Durability
85 %
Effectiveness
90 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (22.12.24)
Amazon Link
$199.99

10 Best VS Athletic Shoes for Weightlifting

1. VS ATHLETICS Weightlifting Shoe II

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
VS ATHLETICS Weightlifting Shoe II
Amazon Link
Features
98
Comfort
97
Durability
90
Effectiveness
90
Materials
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Hook and loop straps over laces

Come with carrying bag

Made of fabric and leather

Cons:

Run a little small

This VS Athletics Shoe is made of fabric and leather with a sole made from hard rubber. Two hook and loop straps help to keep the laces in place for added support. They come with a free VS shoe bag which makes them easy to carry to the gym.

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The VS weightlifting shoe hits every detail you are looking for in your footwear. They help with your ability to efficiently project force, help with your ability to not only achieve but maintain the proper positioning and alignment which, in turn, helps keep your feet secure and stable no matter the circumstances.

The shoe offers sturdy, solid construction throughout. In spite of their spartan appearance, quite a bit of thought and weightlifting know-how has gone into the engineering of this shoe, with every effort made to get the most out of the materials while maintaining the affordable price point.

These shoes are constructed of a leather upper and sole plate. They have twin metatarsal straps for support and a raised heel for proper positioning. These shoes are comfortable as well as giving you quality performance. The same features that ensure a safe, effective lift also ensure a high degree of comfort regardless of whether you are in the midst of recording a new personal best or are taking a few moments to stroll around the gym. Pretty amazing!

2. Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.6
Nordic Lifting Powerlifting Shoes
Amazon Link
Features
95
Comfort
95
Durability
89
Effectiveness
90
Materials
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$99.88
Pros:

Come in two colors

Velcro strap gives added support

Comes in a nice box perfect for gifting

Cons:

Are a little narrow

The Nordic Powerlifting Shoes give you maximum lifting support. With the Olympic stability, you will get a powerful workout and it will help you accomplish lifting gains. These shoes are built to last even under the stress of your most intense workout. They will help to improve your posture while lifting.

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The Nordic Powerlifting Shoes are designed to give you maximum support and help to improve your lifting output. They are crafted with the best materials and reinforced stitching to help them last longer. They also feature a velcro strap and a raised heel for better foot support and stability.

These shoes are perfect for weightlifters, powerlifters, and bodybuilders. They work for professional athletes who seek to improve their gains. They also help anyone who performs deadlifts, squats, leg presses or other heavy exercises.

These shoes give you stability with a rigid anti-slip sole which will let you stay stable during your exercise. They fit your feet snugly, making sure they will not have unnecessary movement.

These shoes have a raised heel which helps to improve your posture while lifting. It helps make sure you stand more upright. That way you can accurately direct your lifting force and help you get a better lift.

3. Reebok Men's Lifter

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90.4
Reebok Men's Lifter
Amazon Link
Features
90
Comfort
95
Durability
87
Effectiveness
90
Materials
90
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Come in a wide variety of colors

Has a rubber sole

Toe made of leather

Cons:

Sizes run large

The Reebok Men's Lifter is made from a mesh and synthetic upper area and a rubber sole. The shaft of this shoe measures approximately low-top from arch. The toe of the shoe is made of leather for good durability and it features two hook and loop closures. These Reebok shoes have a u-form technology. When they are activated by heat, they custom form to your feet. They also have a flex grooved outer sole and an anti-friction lining.

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This Reebok lifter shoe gives you the platform for stability during your workouts when lifting heavy weight. It features a heat-activated wrap around your foot which molds to a customized fit and does not require break-in time. The two added strap closures help to lock down your feet. It also has heel clips which hold your foot in place.

Customers have reported being able to achieve a deeper squat and heavier than normal. These shoes have a wide base to give you a lot more stability and the raised heel allows a deeper squat. They grip the floor well making it easier to work out. These shoes are not really designed for running. They are fairly comfortable but not flexible.

4. adidas Powerlift.3.1 Shoes Men's

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
adidas Powerlift.3.1 Shoes Men's
Amazon Link
Features
90
Comfort
90
Durability
87
Effectiveness
90
Materials
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Comes in lots of colors

Has a synthetic sole

High-density mid sole wedige

Cons:

Not good for wide feet

The Adidas Powerlift 3.1 is designed for the jerk, snatch and deadlift in these shoes. They are made for weight lifting and everyday weight training. This shoe has an extra wide design to allow your foot to spread during the lift. These shoes have a lightweight and durable upper as well as a wide midfoot strap which helps to lock down the fit. The high-density wedge midsole will keep you keep your feet stable.

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The Adidas Powerlift shoes are designed with a synthetic sole. It is a base low-top design from the arch. The shoe has a lace closure with an extra hook and loop strap to give you the support you need.

This shoe has a narrow fit and designed especially for lifting. It has a high-density midsole wedge which helps you stable and balanced.

If you have some problems with your form under heavier weight, these are a great tool to help you. They will help build your squat sessions and help your ankles be more comfortable. Your technique will be cleaner and you will come out of the hole faster. The raised heel gives you better mobility.

5. Otomix Men's Stingray Escape Bodybuilding

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.2
Otomix Men's Stingray Escape Bodybuilding
Amazon Link
Features
85
Comfort
90
Durability
86
Effectiveness
90
Materials
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$129.00
Pros:

Ultralight shoes with superior support

Comes in 10 different colors

Excellent traction sole

Cons:

They fit super wide and always stretch

The Otomix shoes for weightlifting, Men's Stingray shoes are ultra-light and will give you great support in your feet with an unlimited range of motion. It is made of suede and has the ultimate traction sole that you need for competition. This shoe is available in a wide range of sizes, from 6-13.

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These shoes are perfect shoes for your workout when you are doing squats or deadlifts. Otomix is known for its products in mat sports and has extended into wrestling, weightlifting, and other sports. They are starting with the introduction of these shoes.

These shoes are ultra-light flat sole shoes which give you superior stability and support. You will also have an unlimited range of motion. The soles are sewn on as well as glued on to give excellent durability. The Otomix Bodybuilding is a feather-light design with quality ultimate traction. These shoes are perfect for training, lifting, boxing, and other sports.

6. Inov-8 Men's Fastlift 335

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.2
Inov-8 Men's Fastlift 335
Amazon Link
Features
85
Comfort
85
Durability
86
Effectiveness
90
Materials
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Has a rubber sole

Nylon ripstop upper

Padded tongue and collar

Cons:

Very narrow shape

The Inov-8 Weightlifting shoes are 100 percent synthetic. These shoes have rubber soles. The weightlifting shoe has a standard fit to give you better stability and flexibility in your forefoot. They have nylon ripstop uppers with lightweight overlays in the fabric. It has a closure which laces up and an adjustable hook and loop strap on the instep. The padded tongue and collar help with comfort. It has a molded footbed which is removable.

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This shoe has a nylon ripstop upper area and lightweight, welded overlays. The adjustable hook and loop strap which will help lock down the laces. To give you extra comfort, it also has a plush tongue and collar. The mesh lining is breathable. The footbed is molded and gives you light underfoot comfort. Special technologies give you support, stability and structure in your midfoot.

The outsole features rubber which is made from rock climbing rubber and will give you a good grip. The Meta-Flexâ system gives you flexibility and comfort in the forefoot. The shoe also gives you precision, snug fit so you will get little internal movement. The comfort and durability of inov-8 products are what makes this brand a top-quality choice for the high-performance athlete and the recreational user alike.

7. NOBULL Men's Training Shoes

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
NOBULL Men's Training Shoes
Amazon Link
Features
85
Comfort
84
Durability
85
Effectiveness
90
Materials
84
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Extremely durable and breathable material

Designed for multi-environmental use

Lightweight and flexible

Cons:

They are a little narrow

The NoBull Men's Training Shoes will help you with all kinds of activities including weightlifting. They are lightweight on your feet, made of breathable material and give you flexible protection to move the way you do. The upper of this shoe has a seamless one-piece construction. It is made of SuperFabric which is a durable fabric that is breathable and stands up to abrasion.

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Have you heard of NOBULL? This is an apparel, footwear, and accessory brand designed for people who train hard. Their products perform with your rhythm, when and where you need them to enhance your workout.

High carbon lateral and medial guards give you added protection when you need it. The outsole lug pattern is designed to be versatile with a good blend of traction, flexibility, and support. The upper of this shoe is a seamless one-piece of SuperFabric which is durable and abrasion resistant. The guard plates are put on a flexible mesh base layer which creates a 360-degree shield.

8. adidas Adipower Cross Trainer

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
adidas Adipower Cross Trainer
Amazon Link
Features
80
Comfort
82
Durability
85
Effectiveness
90
Materials
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Rubber sole

Sharp looking with extra protection strap

Made of synthetic materials

Cons:

A little narrow around the toes

These Adidas are sturdy and secure with a nice rubber sole. The shaft is basically low-top from arch. This is a nice looking shoe with a secure durable heel. They will help you get just the right posture to get a good lift.

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These shoes are specially designed for weightlifting and will give you the assistance you need. The size tends to run a little narrow so you might have to go up half a size. They are very stable but they definitely take some getting used to.

These shoes are recommended most by a customer for squats and deadlifts. They will help you develop your form and balance. This is a very sturdy shoe with an adequate heel for lifters who are not necessarily specialists. They are heavy-duty, stylish, have a premium heel lift and are just a little narrow around the toes.

9. Pendlay Men's 14PBlack

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.4
Pendlay Men's 14PBlack
Amazon Link
Features
80
Comfort
82
Durability
85
Effectiveness
90
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
Pros:

Improved Weightlifting Shoe Sole

Synthetic Leather - Nylon Mesh

Two Metatarsal Straps

Cons:

Only come in one color

Pendlay Men's Shoe is synthetic leather with a nylon mesh. It has two metatarsal straps for added support. This shoe also has a wide toe box design. It has an improved sole to make it stronger and more flexible. The heel height is 3-4 inches.

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The Men's 2015 Pendlay Weightlifting Shoes have a synthetic leather upper and enhanced with nylon mesh throughout. The biggest change is the single sole design which gives the shoes more flexibility and strength.

The look of Pendlay Weightlifting Shoes has changed through the years but they still have that wider Do-win fit which you come to depend on. The heel height is about three-quarters of an inch which if the for Olympic Lifting. Be sure to check the sizes carefully.

These shoes have a 90-day warranty. They have made improvements to the sole but it is still recommended to only use these shoes for Olympic Weightlifting.

10. Nike Romaleos 3 Mens

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.2
Nike Romaleos 3 Mens
Amazon Link
Features
80
Comfort
81
Durability
85
Effectiveness
90
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$199.99
Pros:

Come in many stylish colors

Two interchangeable insoles

Solid rubber outsole for good traction

Cons:

Run a size small

Nike Romaleos 3 weightlifting shoe is perfect for weightlifting, CrossFit, and squats. They are comfortable and it's like your feet are in concrete because they feel so secure. These shoes fit perfectly and come with two different insoles. These shoes are perfect to get your gains. Customers say the price is worth it.

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This shoe is made of fabric and synthetic material with a durable rubber sole. The synthetic leather protects the mesh on the upper to give you the support and breathability your feet need. The flywire cables help the nylon midfoot strap give your foot a good lockdown.

It has two interchangeable insoles that provide either soft or firm support for your foot. It features a honeycomb TPU plate which will give you good lightweight stability while you are lifting weights.

This shoe has a solid rubber outsole. This sole gives you durable traction.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Features

You would think weightlifting shoes would all be very similar but there are definitely features you should take a look at before you decide which is the best one for you. They come in a variety of different colors, although most are not top on the fashion list.

Most feature a rubber sole which should be non slip to help you keep your footing during a lift. Pay attention to the type of tread they have, something which is going to stay in place. They should also have a little bit of a heel which helps you to get a deeper squat and also helps your posture during a lift. About three-quarters of an inch is good. It also needs to be sturdy, able to stand up to your intense workout and last for years without losing integrity.

The top should be sturdy leather or some breathable material to keep your feet from getting sweaty. Most of the shoes on our list have lace closures and then have straps that give the shoe further stability and keep the laces in place.

A nice bonus feature is if you can find a pair of weightlifting shoes which come with a carrying bag. It makes your trip to the gym and back so much easier to just toss them in your bag. At least one of the pairs on our list also comes in a nice box that you could use for gifting.

Comfort

If your weightlifting shoes are going to be a useful part of your workout, they need to be comfortable. The sole will have a bit of a heel which will help you get into just the right posture so you will get the most out of your lift. It should also be made of rubber or other material which is going to grip the floor and keep you stable during your workout. You do not want shoes which are going to slip and cause injury.

These shoes should fit snugly around your foot, stiff enough to provide stability and security but flexible enough to move as your foot moves. They should fit like they are an extension of your body. Reebok especially has a U-fit technology which is heat activated to mold around your foot.

The top of the shoes should be sturdy yet breathable to keep your feet comfortable and free of sweat. There should be a comfortable toe room. Most of the shoes have laces which are handy so you can adjust the tension to your feet. They have straps which cover the laces to keep them in place and add a little more stability to the shoe.

You should also take a look at the insoles. These are designed to keep your feet comfortable and stable so you can focus on your lift. Some of the shoes even come with multiple insoles so you can decide which one is better for you at the moment.

Durability

When it comes to weightlifting, it is important to have shoes which are built durable and ready to stand up under the stress of an intense workout. The soles should be well glued and even glued and stitched for extra durability. The upper should be made of a durable material like leather or nylon. It should be designed to breathe but also stand up to your lift without stretching or tearing.

The laces should be strong enough that you can really pull on them without breaking them so you can get a good tight fit. Then there are the straps which you should be able to pull tight. They need to be well stitched and strong enough to stay in place and keep your laces and shoes secure.

Some of the shoes are made with nylon ripstop fabric which gives them good quality durability. These fabrics are woven using a special reinforcing technique which will keep them from ripping or tearing. Thick threads are woven in at a crosshatch pattern.

Effectiveness

Once you start wearing weightlifting shoes, you will not want to lift without them. They are not like any other type of shoe and are specifically designed for working with weights. These shoes help you use all the force you produce with your body to help you move the weight.

Weightlifting shoes should have stiff soles which are no slip to keep you stable during your workout. They have tight laces and straps covering them so they basically wrap around your foot and mold into it. They have very little padding or none at all.

To be effective your weightlifting shoe needs to have a slightly raised heel. This makes it easier for you to get into a deeper squat. It also helps with the range of motion in your ankle. You will have better posture and be sitting more upright.

Weightlifting shoes also need to be stable and wrap around your foot so you have a consistent strong base to land on and push through. They are important to help with performance and preventing injury.

The weightlifting shoes are great for squatting as well. You will be able to squat more with them on, so you will get stronger. Squatting with weightlifting shoes on will transfer directly into your muscles, movement, and mechanics.

Materials

The most important aspect of materials used is having a shoe that is going to withstand your intense workout and do the most to help you with your lift.

The soles should be rubber or some other stiff material that will not slip and slide around when you are lifting. They will have a slight heel, about three-quarters of an inch, which used to be made of wood but now is usually a sturdy plastic or some other material like that.

The upper should be mesh or synthetic, something which is breathable for your feet to help avoid sweating and slipping. Some of the shoes use nylon ripstop. Ripstop is a fabric that is woven with a special reinforcing technique. It makes the material less likely to tear or rip. Thick reinforcement threads are woven into the material.

These shoes are laced and then have a velcro strap to keep the laces in place. Weightlifting shoes are fairly basic really, but they make a huge difference in your lifting performance.

Expert Interviews & Opinions

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expert tips icon
Get Weightlifting Shoes With Flat Soles

You do not want to use running shoes for lifting weights. They have the gel cushion and added air. The cushions are good if you are a runner because they absorb impact. When you are lifting weights though you do not want the cushioning. You need better stability. You can also drive all of your force into the ground and improve your lift.

Get A Shoe With Straps

Something as simple as having a strap on your weightlifting shoes. Most of the shoes will come with laces. The shoes with laces often have a couple of straps as well which give the best security.

The straps give you an extra layer of mobility. They lock your feet in place at the center and help to support your ankles for stability and flexibility. On top of that, they keep your feet from sliding around inside your shoes and keep them snug.

Other Factors to Consider

Heel

We have mentioned it before but probably the most important feature of a good weightlifting shoe is the raised heel. It should be up at least three-quarters of an inch. This is going to help you keep a good posture during your lift and be able to get deeper into your squat. It gives your ankles a bigger range of motion. At the same time, you can keep your feet planted flat on the ground with good stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What are weightlifting shoes?

a:

These shoes started being used by competitive Olympic weightlifters to help them move heavy weights. They tend to be heavier than regular shoes with a flat sole and some sort of midfoot straps. They also feature a raised heel.

q: Why should you use weightlifting shoes?

a:

The biggest benefit of using a weight lifting shoe is that you have better mechanical angles in the squat position. They have a raised heel so your ankle does less of a forward flex to get to the bottom of the squat. You also have better stability and you can feel more locked in thanks to the density, weight, and flatness of the shoe.

q: Can you wear weightlifting shoes outside?

a:

No, it is not practical to wear your weightlifting shoes outside the gym. The soles are hard and not good for running or even walking for that matter. They would not be comfortable and would wear out faster.

q: Are chucks good for lifting?

a:

They are not ideal. The Converse sneakers are okay but if you have good technique, quality ankle mobility, a little budget, and you are serious about lifting we HIGHLY recommend you invest in regular weightlifting shoes.

q: Do you wear socks with weightlifting shoes?

a:

Socks do not matter too much if you are working on your squats. If you are working on cleans, a lot of lifters like tall socks which also help to protect your shins. There are even special socks for weightlifting but they can get a little pricey.

Sources

  1. Staff, Weightlifting Shoes, Article
  2. Staff, Weightlifting Shoes, Article
  3. Staff, Olympic Shoes, Article
  4. Staff, Should Non-Olympic Weightlifters, Article
  5. Staff, Are You Wearing The Right Shoes, Article