Author: Ihor Shymechko (26 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience)
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (Olympian with 21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
For purchasing the best cheap weightlifting shoes, there are many factors to consider. Depending on your need and budget, weigh how stable the shoe feels, along with the comfort and grip it provides you as you exercise.
But with budget shopping, durability is a big factor as well, so take into consideration the materials of the shoe as well. All these factors together can point you toward the right weightlifting shoe that meets your needs, criteria, and, more importantly, your budget.
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In a hurry?
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Top 6 Best Cheap Weightlifting Shoes Reviewed
1. Reebok Men's Lifter PR III Cross Trainer – Top Pick
- Heel Lift Height: 0.86"
- Sole material: Rubber
- Upper material: Textile
- Sizing: True to size
- Outsole: Rubber
Reebok has been one of the leading footwear brands in the world for many years now. They represent some of the biggest athletes in the world and their shoes are worn for sports like football and basketball to sprinting and long distance running. We would recommend these if you’re looking for the best and cheapest weightlifting shoes.
Also comes with an EVA midsole, which provides lightweight cushioning.
Stability
The rubber soles provide a layer of stability so you can perform most of the exercises of your choosing. Especially in the case of weight lifting, the shoes provide stability for lifts such as squats, deadlifts, clean and jerks, snatches, and other explosive movements.
The cushioning works to absorb the weight and force, which gives you a stable and safe surface to exercise. The reason being, there isn’t an extra layer of cushioning separating you from the ground.
Materials
The shoe is largely made of nylon, which is typical for a training shoe. Nylon allows a shoe to be flexible, while staying in its proper form. So, the material of the Reebok Lifter’s shouldn’t be an issue.
Durability
The material a shoe is made of factors big time in durability. Nylon is typically considered to be a long-lasting material, so the Reebok product should be as well.
Plus, the shoe is built for you to train heavy and explosively, so at the very least, the shoe should be able to provide you with 1-2 years' worth of usage. As long as you’re doing the proper workouts with the shoe.
Comfort
Comfort largely depends on what you wish to do with the shoe. For weightlifting training, the shoe is very comfortable and should not be an issue, but for something like running, you might find the toe box or the back of the shoe uncomfortable.
However, the EVA midsole and lightweight cushioning should provide you with the right amount of comfort during your weightlifting sessions.
Grip
The rubber soles give you a solid grip on most surfaces. You can achieve that feeling of your feet gripping the floor when you're lifting weights with these shoes. So, that’s a big plus.
Positives:
Great beginner shoe
Good for weightlifting
Can cross train
Cost efficient
Could be better:
Heel elevation
2. Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes – Runner Up
- Heel Lift Height: 0.75"
- Sole material: Rubber
- Upper material: Leather
- Sizing: 1/2 size smaller than your current running shoe size
- Weight: 17 ounces
The Do-Win brand is specifically focused on weightlifting. So, all of their products are curated to provide the best products for weightlifting athletes. Currently, you can purchase these weightlifting shoes for under $100.
Stability
The wide profile of the shoe is made for stability purposes. This way, you have more surface area for your feet to wedge down and secure themselves before attempting a lift. The heel lift allows you to perform all your weightlifting exercises.
Materials
The shoes are made up of synthetic leather and nylon mesh. This creates a unique blend of flexibility, which is required to pull off certain weight lifting exercises, and also breathability, which is better for your feet.
Durability
Nylon and leather both favour durability. Leather is generally considered the toughest shoe material, so you shouldn’t have any durability issues with the Do-Win product. Plus, the single sole construction of the shoe helps with durability as well.
Comfort
The wide profile of the shoes aids comfortability as well. Especially if you are someone with a wider foot. The width of the shoe allows for more room for your feet, which provides a more comfortable feeling.
Grip
For weightlifting, the grip of the shoe shouldn’t be an issue. You should be able to wedge your feet to the ground and feel secure prior to a big lift.
Positives:
Wide Profile
Cost Efficient
Nylon and leather material
Could be better:
Low heel
- Heel Lift Height: 0.6"
- Sole material: Rubber
- Upper material: Fabric
- Sizing: True to size
- Weight: 1.94 pounds
Adidas has been a global sports brand for a long time now. They have sponsored some of the biggest sport stars on the planet, including weightlifting and powerlifting athletes. Their products range from apparel to shoes such as the ones featured here. This Adidas pair is great if you’re looking for cheap powerlifting shoes.
Stability
The Adidas Powerlift 5 prioritizes stability over everything else. The shoe has a narrow fit, a midsole wedge and a wide instep strap, all of which are there to create a secure, snug feeling when you’re wearing the shoe.
Materials
The mix of rubber for the soles and fabric for the upper aids in lifting. The upper fabric material is lightweight, so you can perform your lifts with proper protection. However, this also means the shoes are more limited towards weightlifting and not really for cross training.
Durability
The canvas upper is not only comfortable when lifting, but is also used with durability in mind. So, you should be able to get good use out of the shoes for a while.
Rubber soles last a long time, so it shouldn’t be any different with these shoes.
Comfort
The shoe has a narrow toe box, which can be uncomfortable. Plus, if you have a wide foot, the narrow and tight build of the shoe could be an issue. However, if you like your shoe to be tight, with little room to move, then these shoes could be the ideal fit.
Grip
The Adidas product really excels in the grip department. Rubber is seen as one of the better anti-slip materials for use and these shoes have plenty of it. So, if you’re thinking about doing some explosive workouts with these shoes and in different environments, you should be able to complete them without any grip or slipping issues.
Positives:
Good grip
Secure and stable
Lightweight shoe
Could be better:
Can be uncomfortable for some
Limited usage
- Heel Lift Height: 0.59"
- Sole material: Rubber
- Upper material: Synthetic
- Sizing: True to size
Nike has dominated the sports world for many years. They sponsor some of the best athletes in the world in various different sports and avenues. Their clothing brand, along with shoe products are worn worldwide.
Stability
The product is designed to combat stability issues. The shoe comes with a flat, wide sole to give you more surface area to create a secure and stable position. Plus, in order to prevent your foot from moving, the shoe has a hook-and-loop strap to keep your mid-foot in place. The combination of the two should allow you to create power and be explosive with your lifts.
Materials
The padded mesh material used for the heel of the shoe is firm, so you can do your workout properly without the fear of the heel collapsing. The heel is designed to take the impact of an explosive workout, and for that it does a good job.
However, the upper material appears a cheaper replacement of the traditional synthetic leather that is used. So, there is a question about durability with this material.
Durability
Speaking of which, because there are some durability concerns with the upper material, it’s hard to say how long the shoe might last. Especially when you’re putting strain on the upper material throughout the weightlifting session.
Comfort
If you're someone who prefers tight and snug fit with your shoes, then you’ll find the shoes comfortable because of their hook-and-loop straps. But, if you like the shoe to be a bit loose, you could have some trouble with the tightness of the product.
Grip
As the shoe prioritizes stability, grip matters in this. That’s why the rubber soles should not cause any grip issues as you workout. Especially because of the flat and wide nature of the soles that allow you to feel a firm hold on the ground.
Positives:
Flat wide sole
Mid-foot support
Padded mesh heel
Could be better:
Synthetic upper material
Tight fit
- Heel Lift Height: 1.4"
- Sole material: Ethylene vinyl acetate
- Upper material: Rubber
- Sizing: True to size
Nordic Lifting is an athletic company, which specializes in weightlifting products. They produce everything from knee sleeves to gymnastic equipment and, of course, weightlifting and powerlifting shoes. If you’re geared toward just squatting, then these are a great option for cheap squat shoes.
Stability
The stability of these shoes comes from its smooth and anti-slip sole. The tight fit of the shoes doesn’t leave you any room for unnecessary movement, so you feel more secure while lifting weights.
Materials
Ethylene vinyl acetate material is typically softer than rubber, so a shoe made of EVA will be more flexible and comfortable than its counterparts. Also, the shoe is lighter because of this material.
Durability
EVA is highly durable. The sole can last several years under normal use. The velcro strap of this product has good stitching and lacing around it to prevent any unnecessary breakage. So, you should be able to perform all your heavy lifts without the fear of breaking the shoe too quickly.
Comfort
As mentioned earlier, the EVA material favours comfortability because it’s more flexible and lighter than other materials. Plus, the raised heel of this product makes you more upright when squatting, which should make the lift more comfortable for you as well.
Grip
A downside of an EVA grip is that it can be slippery. At least compared to other materials, you have to be more careful which surface you wear the shoe. In a normal gym environment, you should be fine, but if the environment is humid and wet, you might be at a higher risk of slipping.
Positives:
Cost Efficient
Good for squatting
Comfortable and flexible
Could be better:
Can be slippery
Not suitable for wide feet
- Heel Lift Height: 0.39"
- Sole material: Rubber
- Upper material: Fabric and synthetic leather
- Sizing: True to size
- Additional Support: Arch supported
Manufacturing for over 10 years, Sabo Sports is a company that mainly focuses on making the right shoe for powerlifting. So, their products are curated toward those who aim to train and compete in strength training.
Stability
The Sabo Deadlift shoes come with a unique heel drop. The way it works is that when the lifter’s weight is added, the heel flattens and equally distributes the weight over a wider surface area. Not only does this give better heel drive, but is also more stable.
The lateral straps create a tighter and more precise hold on the foot, ankle, and heel.
Materials
The fabric and synthetic leather used for these shoes make the mesh more breathable. They also provide flexibility to the shoe, which creates a more comfortable lift.
Durability
Leather shoes have great durability features. So, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about the shoe breaking down, especially if you use it for the right purpose.
Comfort
The previously mentioned heel spread along with the outsole, creates a comfortable shoe for the lifter. Plus, the thin, removable insole helps support the arch and gives cover over the seams of the bottom sole. So, comfortability should not be an issue.
Grip
The feel of these shoes is almost as if you’re barefoot. The reason for this is that of their ultra thin soles and this is ideal for deadlifts, as you’ll want to get a firm grip of the floor before lifting.
Also, the high board in the heel and on the toe allow for better foot hold. This can minimize slipping and foot rolling as well.
Positives:
Prioritizes stability
Arch support
Thin soles
Could be better:
Not ideal for cross training
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Why Get Weightlifting Shoes?
1. Heel Elevation
A primary benefit for weightlifting shoes is that they come with elevated heels. This is important because heel elevation can help with maintaining proper posture while lifting.
While doing lifts like clean and jerk or snatch, you need to be able to maintain a proper posture because the slightest break in posture can result in a missed lift. So, in order to safely and efficiently perform weightlifting exercises, heel elevation can be a major plus.
2. Provides Extra Support
A weightlifting shoe can provide support through different means. For one, a weightlifting shoe has a solid base to catch you as you perform your lift, so you have a secure platform underneath you to prevent any injuries or mishaps.
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
3. Mobility Advantage
Mobility has a big impact on whether you can perform a lift safely. Wherever you have mobility issues, that becomes a hindrance to the lift.
Many people have stiff ankles, knees, and hips, which prevent them from lifting the weight with proper form. But, through such things as elevated heels, wide shoe base, and extra ankle support, you can manage your limitations better and still perform the exercises of your choosing.
How To Choose The Best Weightlifting Shoes On A Budget?
1. Versatility
If you are shopping on a budget and looking for cheap lifting shoes, you want to make sure to get the most bang for your buck.
So, instead of purchasing a weightlifting shoe that is very specific in its design and only allows you to do a handful of exercises, it might be better to pick a more versatile shoe that can crossover and cover a wider area.
This might mean you’re depending on the heel elevation or how stiff and flexible the shoe is, so you’re less constricted when it comes to using the shoe.
2. Material and Durability
Another factor to consider when looking for affordable weightlifting shoes is the material of the shoe, so you have a more durable product. The last thing you want is to shell out money for a shoe that breaks down in months, forcing you to buy another pair.
One way to avoid this problem is finding the right fit for your foot. If you have a wider foot, you want to make sure you’re purchasing a shoe that compliments that, otherwise a narrow shoe might not only cause you problems, but it could break down quicker as well.
3. Warranty
Not every company offers it, but it would be ideal if you can find a company that gives a warranty with their product.
That way you can feel more secure about your purchase as you can always get it exchanged for another pair of shoes if the fit isn’t right or if the product isn’t as durable as you would like. So, ideally if you’re looking for the cheapest weightlifting shoes, make sure they come with warranty.
FAQ
Can I Lift Weights In Running Shoes?
Yes and no. You can do some form of weight lifting with running shoes, such as upper body exercises. However, when it comes to the lower body, running shoes can be a hindrance.
The reason being, most running shoes come with a thick foam at the bottom that creates a barrier between your foot and the ground. This can cause you to feel off balance or take away grip from your feet while weightlifting.
Also, certain running shoes might cause a range of motion issues, which will result in injuries or missed lifts.
Are Converse Good For Lifting?
Converses can be a good option for powerlifting. The shoe has a flat bottom and high ankle support, so you can perform exercises such as the deadlift. The flat bottoms increase balance and decrease the range of motion, as well.
However, if you lack ankle mobility, you could find some difficulty when it comes to squats, especially if you’re going deep.
Conclusion
If your priority is purchasing cheap lifting shoes, you have to find the right combination of stability, durability, comfort, and grip. This depends on the individual's foot dimensions and the exercises they are planning to do.
For budget shopping however, it’s better to consider the versatility of the shoe as well, along with its durability and materials used to make the product.
Also read:
References:
- Should You Invest In Weightlifting Shoes? // Bodybuilding:
https://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/weight-lifting-shoes-investment.htm - All Photos made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
- Author
- Reviewer
Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch - 208 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships – 105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
Experience: 21 years
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. I am a professional athlete with 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. I have won multiple European, and World titles and have taken part in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012).
After finishing my career, I have committed myself to coach, and as of 2022, I’ve hosted 200+ weightlifting seminars all over the globe. I’m the founder of an international sportswear and accessories brand, Warm Body Cold Mind (my motto), author, and creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.
