Have you ever wondered if you have the right gear for lifting? Ya know, the belt, the shoes, the gloves? The good news is, there’s usually not a “right” or “wrong”. (Except for gloves. Those are wrong.)
However, there is often a “better” and “best” option. Let’s look at shoes and the role they play in lifting.
Lifting is the sum of force against resistance
When you lift, you are exerting force, either against gravity, a cable, or some external resistance.
To do this effectively, you want to channel all of your energy in that direction. Basically, press the bar as hard as you can and don’t lose energy in other directions. Energy leaks make the movement less effective. Energy leaks can come from being loose in your set up, bracing incorrectly, or being sloppy throughout the movement.
If you are squatting, the goal is to sum all of your force, from the ground up, into the bar. This is hard to do if you are on unstable ground, a cushy surface, or have loose, cushioned shoes.
The “better” option
Don’t lift in Uggs either, unless they are purple. #geauxtigers
Chuck Taylor shoes are a great lifting option, because they are flat, stable, easy to find, and not super expensive. You can find some specifically made lifting shoes with fancy options, and that might be your best bet if you are competing. But, Chucks are a great option for even the most recreational lifter. Please don’t squat in your Brooks anymore!
Why we love Chuck Taylors for weight lifting
I talked with Amy Roberts about why Chucks can be a great lifting shoe, and she does a great job of giving much more detail here at wirecutter.com.
Check it out and let me know what you lift in!
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