Shoes For Lifting Weights: What Kind of Shoes Should I Wear?

What kind of shoes should I wear when lifting weights?

Before I answer this question, let me explain something:  I lifted for years in whatever sneaker I happened to be wearing (Nike cross trainers, etc) and did just fine.  But I eventually switched to Converse Chuck Taylor All Star (or some similar style canvas shoe).

Here's why:

A typical running/cross-training shoe has some cushion in it, especially in the heel.  This is fine for jogging and other sports, but it's probably not the ideal for lifting weights.  Padding in the heel causes two potential problems for weight lifting. 

First, the extra elevation under your heel may put you at risk for turning over on your ankle during squats (and similar lifts).  It has never happened to me, but I see how it could be possible.

There's another problem:  that extra padding also takes away some of the force you are exerting into the floor--this is not what you want when you are doing deadlifts or power cleans.  Does it make a huge difference?  Maybe not, but I want every advantage when lifting.

Last but not least, canvas shoes tend to be cooler than most sneakers.

I prefer the "lo top" versions because it doesn't interfere with calf training (since there's no fabric around the ankles).   A good pair of Chucks are inexpensive and will last for quite a while (especially if you only wear them for lifting). 

ads from Shopzilla,Inc