Nike Romaleos 4
Pros
- Phenomenal stability
- Sturdy platform and sole
- Better lockdown with two straps
- Comfortable for a lifting shoe
- True to size
- Efficient traction
- Appealing looks
Cons
- Upper lacks durability
- Not for narrow ankles
- Not breathable
Key Features
- Men to Women Sizing: Easily convert between men's and women's sizes, with the equivalent of 6 Men = 7.5 Women.
- Imported: Designed with internationally sourced materials for quality assurance.
- Rubber Sole: Provides excellent traction on various surfaces, minimizing the risk of slipping during lifts.
- Mesh Material: Ensures breathability, keeping your feet cool and comfortable throughout your workout.
- Lace-Up Closure: Offers a secure fit, allowing for personalized adjustability while lifting.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh Material
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Nike Romaleos 4 is designed for serious lifters and professionals seeking stability and support during their workouts. Its strong foothold offers a secure fit, providing unwavering support under heavy loads.
The extended TPU walls and rigid heel counter received a 5/5 rigidity rating, effectively locking the rear foot in place. Two Velcro straps positioned in opposing directions enhance balance, which is essential for lifting performance.
The midsole features a durometer reading of 97.0 HA, making it the toughest we have measured, ensuring that it can support heavy lifting without collapsing. Additionally, its spacious dimensions of 111.5/91.3 mm provide ample space for finding stability.
While the padded upper contributes to comfort, it limits ventilation, which might not suit users who prefer a cooler experience. Therefore, those sensitive to heat may find this shoe less appealing.
Nike Metcon 10
Pros
- More versatile Metcon overall
- One of the lightest Metcons ever!
- ReactX adds shock absorption and energy return
- Increased forefoot flexibility
- Still amazingly stable for weightlifting
- Fantastic upper durability (even for rope climbs)
- Great grip on gym floors
- Highly secure foot lockdown
- Accommodating fit and toebox
- Handy Lace Tuck
Cons
- Outsole could be more durable
- Upper lacks breathability
Key Features
- Open-holed engineered mesh provides breathability.
- Midsole rubber wrap is more tuned, lighter, and less bulky than the Metcon 9.
- Tough plastic heel clip enhances durability for exercises like handstand push-ups.
- Midfoot band secures your foot on the footbed, helping you maintain focus on form.
- Sturdy heel cup combined with lace tuck prevents shifting or slipping during workouts.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Engineered mesh, Rubber outsole
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Nike Metcon 10 is designed for men seeking a versatile gym shoe suitable for CrossFit training. This model delivers a sturdy base, impressive grip, and adaptive flexibility, allowing users to effectively engage in a variety of WOD exercises.
Lab assessments verify that its low profile enhances ground connection and control while facilitating fluid movements. The Metcon 10 provides unwavering support, particularly during lifting sessions, making it an excellent choice for men aiming to progressively increase weights.
Featuring a below-average stack height of 22.8/16.2 mm, the shoe includes a robust Hyperlift heel insert that resists compression under heavy loads. The wide midsole and reliable traction inspire confidence across various movements, with an above-average base measurement of 115.2/90.8 mm to enhance sensitivity.
Even on slippery surfaces, the outsole demonstrates effective traction, evidenced by its solid 0.38 rating in our traction test. This trainer exemplifies that stable footwear can still offer flexibility; it requires minimal effort for foot-bending workouts like planks.
Our bend test confirms that the Metcon 10 is 13.2% more flexible than average, achieving substantial stability without sacrificing movement. However, men seeking enhanced ventilation may find the Metcon 10 lacking, as it scored only 2/5 in our smoke test, suggesting a need for a more breathable option in warm or high-sweat environments.
Adidas Dropset 3
Pros
- Exceptional stability for lifting and lateral movements
- Very wide and grounded platform
- Extra durable and grippy outsole
- Very secure foothold
- Flexible enough for plyometrics
- Fantastic breathability
- Accommodating toebox
Cons
- Not great for running and walking (clunky heel)
- Can't be worn outside because of sole apertures
Key Features
- Strength Training Shoes: Equipped with adjustable lacing and supportive uppers to enhance your workout experience.
- Wide Fit: Designed with a wider last than regular-fitting shoes to ensure added comfort.
- Heat Management: Features adidas HEAT.RDY technology to help you stay cool during intense training sessions.
- Durable Traction: The Adiwear 6 outsole with Traxion heel offers superior grip and wear-resistance.
- Eco-Friendly Construction: Made with at least 20% recycled materials to promote sustainability and reduce your environmental footprint.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Dropset 3 is recognized as Adidas’ top gym shoe, ideal for individuals seeking stability and control during workouts. Our tests indicate that it provides a secure footing for lifts and allows for easy management of dynamic movements. The design effectively balances rigid and flexible components to enhance both support and comfort.
A wide and grounded platform contributes to its stability, with a robust heel offering reassurance during heavy lifts. Our evaluation of shock absorption revealed a below-average score of 73 SA, indicating a focus on ground feel rather than cushioning. This design choice supports performance in strength training while maintaining a strong connection to the ground.
In dynamic workouts and lateral movements, the shoe offers excellent control. The grippy outsole facilitates quick stops, while the responsive midsole allows for smooth acceleration. The flexibility of the shoe is confirmed by our bend test, showing it is 25.2% more flexible than average, along with an impressive grip from the Adiwear outsole, which is 14.7% stronger than typical models.
The upper portion of the Dropset 3 enhances breathability, effectively managing heat and moisture during intense sessions. It received a perfect score of 5/5 in our breathability tests, highlighting its superior ventilation, attributed to the HEAT.RDY technology integrated into the sole. However, this feature also presents a drawback, as the ventilation openings may allow water, dirt, and debris to enter the shoe, making it less suitable for outdoor use or inclement weather conditions.
Reebok Legacy Lifter III
Pros
- Mind-blowing stability
- Incompressible platform
- High heel helps with posture for squats
- Highly supportive upper
- Top-notch durability
- The Pump feature is fun and improves the fit
Cons
- Unreasonable price hike
- Short Velcro attachment
Key Features
- Imported construction for enhanced quality
- Durable rubber sole ensures longevity
- No heel design for optimal flat foot stability
- Traction-enhancing sole for superior grip
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Closure type: Lace-Up
- Water resistance level: Not Water Resistant
The Reebok Legacy Lifter III is an excellent choice for advanced lifters seeking stability and durability in their training. This shoe is designed to support those who are committed to refining their weightlifting techniques, delivering significant stability throughout various lifts.
In our rigorous testing, the toebox of the Reebok Legacy Lifter III withstood extensive drilling from our Dremel tool, showing minimal damage. This performance highlights its impressive durability, justifying the high rating we assigned to its toebox.
When it comes to stability, the overall structure and heel counter of the Reebok Legacy Lifter III proved to be exceptionally resistant to twisting and squeezing tests. We awarded perfect scores for both components due to their remarkable rigidity.
The shoe features a higher than average heel stack, measured at 33.0 mm, which promotes good posture during lifts and squats. The elevated heel design also enhances ankle mobility, contributing to improved lifting mechanics.
A notable drawback is the lack of breathability; this shoe received a score of only 2 out of 5 in our breathability tests, making it less suitable for warmer conditions or extended wear without discomfort.
Adidas The Total
Pros
- Ideal for deadlifting
- Great traction
- A lot of ground feel
- Plenty of toebox space
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Fairly priced
- Streamlined look
Cons
- Not so much breathability
- Not for heavy squats
Key Features
- Regular fit for comfortable wear during intense workouts.
- Textile upper provides durability and breathability.
- Lace closure along with a hook-and-loop instep strap for a secure fit.
- Wide toe box enhances stability and comfort during lifts.
- Made with recycled materials to promote environmental sustainability.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA and Imported
- Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate for optimal cushioning.
- Outer Material: Textile for both comfort and flexibility.
- Closure Type: Pull-On design for easy wear.
The Total is the best Adidas trainer for deadlifting, designed for individuals seeking stability during intense strength sessions. Its firm platform, low-to-the-ground stance, wide base, and grippy outsole contribute to its effectiveness as a weightlifting shoe.
Featuring a firm, low cushion with no drop, ground contact remains strong. Lab measurements confirm this with a caliper reading of 12.5 mm in both the heel and forefoot, while the durometer indicates a 44.4% tougher-than-average cushion, enhancing overall stability and balance.
The shoe's generous toebox allows for natural toe splay, tapering gently towards the big toe area, which measures 8.7 mm wider than average. Additionally, the upper’s strap and laces provide a secure fit, keeping the foot planted during lifts.
The outsole enhances grip on both rough and smooth surfaces, promoting control and activating the correct muscle groups to help prevent injuries. This feature encourages users to tackle more challenging workouts.
However, The Total has limitations; it is not suitable for all types of weightlifting. Our flex test indicated that it is 44.8% more bendable than average, making it less effective for very heavy weights. We recommend that serious lifters consider lifting-specific shoes for optimal performance.
Inov8 F-Lite Max
Pros
- Fantastic stability for lifting and Crossfit
- Great for heavier lifting (stiff TPU heel)
- Awesome for wide feet
- Good forefoot flexiblity
- Highly breathable toebox
- Solid outsole durability
- Protection for rope climbs
- The stickiest outsole rubber
Cons
- Heavier than average
- Clunky and firm for HIIT/cardio
- Frail upper fabric
Key Features
- Flexibility and support: Combines both elements into one versatile shoe.
- Heel Stabilizer: Enhances stability during movement.
- 6mm drop: Promotes a natural foot position while running.
- Boomerang premium insole: Provides cushioning and comfort with each step.
- RopeTech: Specialized traction technology designed for climbing and grip on ropes.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Nylon
- Inner material: Polyester
The Inov8 F-Lite Max is designed for men seeking stability and support during gym workouts. It features a notably spacious toebox, contributing to its overall comfort and effectiveness in various activities.
In our testing, the F-Lite Max demonstrated significant traction, enhancing confidence when performing movements like box jumps and push-offs on gym floors. Under wet conditions, it recorded a high friction coefficient of 0.53, making it 55.9% more effective than average in grip performance. This same compound extends to the sides, forming the Rope-Tec, which provides additional grip during rope climbing.
The midsole offers structured support, making it a strong candidate for weightlifting. It includes a robust TPU heel stabilizer that maintains its shape under heavy loads, while the midfoot features the Met-Cradle cage to ensure proper centering. With a torsional rigidity score of 4/5, these aspects validate the shoe's supportive characteristics.
We measured the accommodating toebox using our gel mold, revealing a width of 81.0 mm, which is 10.8% above average, suitable for men with wider feet. However, during our Dremel test, it received the lowest 1/5 durability score for the toebox, indicating caution is needed to avoid damage during rope climbs.
Adidas Powerlift 5
Pros
- Stable base for moderate lifting
- Good for accessory exercises
- Solid bite on gym floors
- Secure foothold
- Supportive Velcro strap
- Reasonably priced
- Contains sustainable materials
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Upper is not very durable
- Tongue shifts
Key Features
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand intense workouts.
- Enhanced Stability: Designed to offer optimal foot placement during heavy lifts.
- Sleek Design: The eye-catching blue, white, and solar red color scheme stands out in any gym setting.
- Comfort Fit: Provides ample room in the toe box for comfort while maintaining a snug fit around the heel.
Specifications
- Men's Size: 10
- Women's Size: 11
- Medium Width: Designed to fit standard width feet comfortably.
- Weight: Approximately lightweight for easy handling during workouts.
The Adidas Powerlift 5 is an excellent choice for individuals focused on deadlifts, squats, and bench presses, which are the primary components of weightlifting. The shoe features a stiff heel counter that securely holds the foot in place, while its twist-resistant base ensures stability during movements. Its lightweight design contributes to comfort, minimizing strain during workouts.
In controlled laboratory testing, the heel counter demonstrated impressive resistance to compression, earning a perfect score of 5 for stiffness. This finding aligns with our practical experience in the gym, confirming that the heel counter effectively supports the foot during lifts. Additionally, the shoe’s base withstood significant bending and twisting, justifying the 5 out of 5 rating for torsional resistance.
Weighing only 15.0 oz or 425g, the Adidas Powerlift 5 is notably lighter by 3.7 oz or 105 grams compared to average weightlifting shoes. This low weight enhances ease of movement, making activities like walking and warming up more comfortable. However, individuals with wider feet may find the toebox insufficient, measuring only 95.2 mm at its widest, which is 3.7 mm narrower than the average width.