Weightlifting Shoes

You may have seen the collection of these fancy shoes growing at the gym lately. Maybe you've asked yourself "Are they worth it? Do they really make a big diference?"

The answer is yes.



The modern weightlifting shoe has been developing over the last decade as the sport of weightlifting has progressed. As the evolution of lifts like the snatch, clean and jerk evolved, as more effective ways for the lifter to get under the barbell were developed. From the "splot" to the "split" to the "deep split" to the "squat" landing, the shoes went from thin leather sneakers with no heel to high top boots made of leather, wood and nails. The high tops didn't allow the ankle to flex forward enough and the nails could catch on the platforms. (Sounds lame under a heavy load)

an old school brand: Karhu's

Weightlifting shoes were developed by the necessity of competition into what we see today. They allow for maximal use of the strongest muscles in the body (the lower extremities), and optimal joint mobility to lift/support the heaviest weights possible. The heel height assists flexibility and proper weight distribution on the feet. The solid base enables consistent transfer of power against the floor, through the body, and to the bar. Imagine a heavy back squat while standing on a pillow: it gives and moves under you inconsistently- that doesn't seem fun or effective, does it? Yet that's what many of us are doing lifting with our running shoes on.

These aren't stable enough for heavy lifts.

With weightlifting shoes you can better create and transfer power. You'll possess more balance. Your lifts will become more consistent, reliable, and stable allowing you to use more weight and get stronger.

Rogue Do-Wins

Adidas Iron Work III

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WOD

"DIANE"

21-15-9 reps for time:

deadlift, 100/70kg

handstand pushups

compare to 17DEC2009.

We will be using this standard for the deadlift today. There is a 12-minute cap. Perform doable quality work.

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Have you thought about picking up some lifting shoes yet? Our favorites are the Adidas Iron Work, The Pendalay Do-Win (patent leather) and the Rogue Do-Win (suede).