Shoes for lifting

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trudie_b
trudie_b Posts: 230 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Okay, so I've read that it's best to wear flat soled shoes when weight lifting. I know a lot of lifters like to wear Converse. How important is it? I wear regular running shoes, but I'm wondering if I'd have a more firm support base if I switched to properly flat shoes.

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  • KatieJane83
    KatieJane83 Posts: 2,002 Member
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    I'm by no means a lifting expert, but I noticed that I definitely felt more stable and grounded when I got a pair of Converse to lift in. Running shoes are too cushiony/shifty I think, especially if you're lifting heavy with free weights.
  • subcounter
    subcounter Posts: 2,382 Member
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    This really depends. Some people that suffer from ankle mobility prefer these "squat" shoes for example. They would be good for you. Apart from that, if you are doing deadlifts, I would recommend a shoe with strong soles, usually tagged as "weight-lifting" shoes. Running shoes usually have softer soles that absorb the shock from running so not really great for lifting, or your form.
    I personally use Nike Metcon's. Had them when they were on sale. Happy so far.
  • ew_david
    ew_david Posts: 3,473 Member
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    Running shoes are just that...for running. You don't need super expensive lifting shoes, but I would definitely not squat or DL in running shoes. My lifting Chucks are over 3 years old and they're perfect for my workouts.
  • jagodfrey08
    jagodfrey08 Posts: 425 Member
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    I use the Reebok Crossfit Nano 5.0. Love them! They have nice hard, flat soles. They are fairly lightweight, and really comfortable. I prefer them to Converse.
  • jdhcm2006
    jdhcm2006 Posts: 2,254 Member
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    My form improved drastically when I switched out my cross trainers for a pair of hard, flat sole shoes. I was much more stable, and able to push off & better. One day I may invest in actual shoes that are advertised as weight lifting shoes, but for now the cheapy Converse knock offs I got from Target are doing just fine.
  • c50blvdbabe
    c50blvdbabe Posts: 213 Member
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    Definitely use the flat soles. More stable. Like others said, if you can't afford (or are cheap like me and don't want to spend an arm/leg) for the name brand, Converse-type are great subs.
  • trudie_b
    trudie_b Posts: 230 Member
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    Cool, thanks everyone! I've spotted some awesome black leather studded Cons on eBay, I'm going to get those bad boys!

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