At BarBend, our team of certified fitness professionals have been assembling, using, and maintaining ellipticals, treadmills, rowers, and more for years. During that time, we’ve learned that, just like you have to regularly change your car’s oil and replace your HVAC filter, you also have to routinely tend to your fitness equipment. Whether you are a gym owner in charge of multiple ellipticals or have owned one for three to six months (hint, hint), we think these lubes are great options to keep yours running smoothly for a long time. Read on to check out our picks for the best lubricants for ellipticals.

The 4 Best Lubricants for Ellipticals of 2024

• Best Lubricant for Ellipticals Overall: Horizon Fitness 3-Pack Silicone Treadmill Lubricant
• Best Lubricant for Ellipticals With Applicator Tube: Noosa Life Treadmill Belt Lubricant
• Best Squeeze Bottle Lubricant for Ellipticals: Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant
• Best Aerosol Spray Lubricant for Ellipticals: WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray

How We Tested and Chose the Best Lubricants for Ellipticals

The BarBend team is made up of gym owners, certified personal trainers, and fitness professionals who know what it means to care for at-home and commercial gym equipment. Drawing upon our own experiences and research, we worked to ensure the lubricants we included on our list were made of safe and effective ingredients that can tend to moving parts like wheels, ramps, and drive belts without irritating the user. 

Whether you are traversing a crowded home gym or climbing around a pile of toys, the right type of bottle or nozzle can make the application process much easier. We included options that offer applicator tubes, multi-bottle packs, and one white lithium grease spray for metal-to-metal connection points. Read on to see if one of these lubricants is a good fit for maintaining your elliptical.

Type of Lubricant

When it comes to lubricants, there are two types that your elliptical will need to ensure it keeps on keepin’ on — 100-percent silicone and white lithium grease. For the wheels, ramps, and bars that facilitate the elliptical movement of the pedals, liquid silicone can help prevent the annoying squeaking or grinding noise that comes with wearing parts. (1) Even on the best treadmills, rowers, and ellipticals, noises like these can be a sign that the moving parts on your machine are due for lubrication.

In addition to being a sick name for a hair band, white lithium grease can prevent wear and tear of the metal-on-metal connections on your elliptical. Your elliptical may use sealed bearings, which don’t need to be lubricated at all, but if they aren’t sealed and begin to squeak, white lithium grease is the grease for you. (1)

Application Method

If bending, contorting, and reaching to find the spot to lubricate your elliptical seems easier than moving it, we have good news. The options on our list come with flexible applicator tubes, including squeeze bottles and aerosol sprays. During our research, we drew on our experience and customer reviews to ascertain which application methods made it easy to apply lubricant in tight areas, along with broad surfaces like ramps and rails.

Value

Since you’ll only need to lubricate your elliptical every four to six months, there’s no need to pay a premium. The lubricants we included here have multiple household uses, but if you do exclusively use it for your elliptical, you should be set for years. These options offer solid value for both home elliptical users hearing their first squeak and gym owners tending to the best rowing machines, treadmills, and ellipticals. 

Best Lubricant for Ellipticals Overall: Horizon Fitness 3-Pack Silicone Treadmill Lubricant

Horizon Fitness 3-Pack Silicone Treadmill Lubricant

Horizon Fitness 3-Pack Silicone Treadmill Lubricant

This 100-percent silicone lubricant can help prolong the life of your elliptical without needing to re-up anytime soon. Customers report that it effectively reduces noise during use. Because it is thicker than other lubricants, a small drop can effectively lubricate your machine.

Shop Horizon

Horizon Fitness’ Silicone Treadmill Lubricant uses a 100-percent silicone formula to reduce the wear and tear brought on by regular use, while also helping to cut down on noise during an elliptical workout. Its thick consistency makes it easy to apply, and just a small amount can be enough for effective lubrication.

Depending on your elliptical, you’ll need to lubricate the ramp, wheels, or rails every four to six months, so three 1.7-ounce bottles, combined with its thick consistency, should be enough to last for years. (1) The $24 price point may seem high, but if you’re expecting to sweat on your elliptical for many years to come — or maintaining multiple ellipticals, treadmills, or exercise bikes — the three bottles in this pack might be the way to go.

[Related: The 10 Best Exercise Bikes of 2024]

Since the lubricant itself is a bit thick, some users reported that it was difficult to actually squeeze out of the bottle. This could be an issue if your elliptical is surrounded by other gym equipment and you need to stretch uncomfortably to reach the points that need to be lubricated. Straining just to get the lubricant out of the bottle can be tougher when you’re already in an uncomfortable position. 

This three-pack would be ideal for gym owners or anyone maintaining multiple ellipticals, treadmills, or cardio machines. At $4.70 per ounce, it’s pricier than other options, but for a Costco-sized haul of lubricant for your elliptical, we think Horizon Fitness’ Silicone Treadmill Lubricant is a solid value.

Best Lubricant for Ellipticals With Applicator Tube: Noosa Life Treadmill Belt Lubricant

Noosa Life Treadmill Belt Lubricant

Noosa Life Treadmill Belt Lubricant

The applicator tube assists in applying this 100-percent silicone lubricant to hard-to-reach areas. Its formula is odorless and nontoxic and can reduce noise, while prolonging the life of your fitness equipment.

Shop Noosa Life

Between wheels, ramps, and steel bars, there are places on your elliptical that can be a pain to reach. Whether you need to maneuver around a home gym or your kid’s toys, the applicator tube on the Noosa Life Treadmill Belt Lubricant can help you reach friction points that may be just out of reach.

Customers who applied this 100-percent silicone lubricant to their rails reported a reduction in noise. “Works great on my Schwinn Elliptical. No drag or noise on the rails,” noted one review. Its formula is also inherently odorless and nontoxic, which is good to know for when your kids come looking for those toys.

When paired with regular cleaning, applying this lubricant every four to six months can prolong the life of your elliptical. The sweat and dust that builds up on your machine can cause corrosion and impact its mechanics, while routine lubrication can slow down the inevitable wear on moving parts like wheels, rails, and ramps to keep them in working order. (2)

Because the applicator tube attaches to the nozzle, the connection point may see some leaking if it’s not securely fastened before each use. Some users also noted that keeping the tube straight during use was an issue, as well. 

“The flexible tube was a bit difficult to keep straight and to tell exactly where the lubricant was going,” one customer reported. “I put on a headlamp and the extra light helped me see what was going on.”

Best Squeeze Bottle Lubricant for Ellipticals: Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant

Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant

Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant

The EZ-Squeeze bottle and precision twist top allow for simple application. Its 100-percent silicone is both odorless and nontoxic, and one four-ounce bottle can last for a long time.

Shop Impresa

The Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant stands out for its EZ-Squeeze bottle and twisting top that supports easy application. While some options include extended applicator tubes, this bottle may be ideal for reaching points of friction at awkward angles. According to customers, the thick 100-percent silicone lubricant helped reduce noise during use.

[Related: The 7 Best Compact Ellipticals of 2024]

Users appreciated that there was no smell and the nontoxic formula may give parents and pet owners some peace of mind. Other customers also pointed out that their bottles leaked a little, with one three-star review noting, “I would have given 5 stars if it came with a longer applicator. They tell you the product will leak and it does — not terribly, but annoying.” 

For $9.99, you’ll receive one four-ounce bottle, but multiple customers said that theirs lasted for a long time. “I highly recommend this for anyone with exercise equipment since it’s affordable and long lasting,” said one user. “I think this is a must have.”

Impresa says that although it’s designed for treadmills, its American-made formula is suitable for ellipticals as well. They also claim that it works with many popular brands, including NordicTrack, ProForm, and Sole. While we can’t verify this claim ourselves, its formula can support the regular maintenance of the wheels, ramps, and steel bars of the average elliptical.

Best Aerosol Spray Lubricant for Ellipticals: WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray

WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray

WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray

It sprays on as a liquid with or without the straw, then sets as a protective coating. Regular application can reduce noise during use, as well as prevent long-term wear and tear.

Shop WD-40

Whether you use the spray or narrow stream provided by the straw, WD-40’s Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray is our pick for the best aerosol spray to lubricate your treadmill. White lithium grease is ideal for metal-to-metal applications, so while it can lubricate the bushings on your elliptical, be careful not to apply it to the wheels, ramps, or tracks. (1)

[Related: The 8 Best Commercial Ellipticals of 2024]

Much like your knee or elbow needs cartilage to cushion the counteracting movements of your bones, bushings can cushion the “joint” between two moving metal parts. This can reduce the friction between those parts and slow down long-term wear and tear. 

While this spray isn’t designed specifically for ellipticals, it can be used for them whenever the connections between metal parts need to be greased to reduce squeaking or grinding sounds.

However, some users mentioned that it was tough to spray just a tiny amount. Since your elliptical bushings won’t need much grease, take a few practice sprays to ensure you don’t overapply. When you spray through the straw or the nozzle, the liquid grease quickly dries to form a protective coating that can extend the life of your elliptical while also cutting down on noise in the short term.

This white lithium grease is $6.98 per can — and just $0.70 per ounce. It’s very affordable, but remember, it should only be used for metal-on-metal connections — like the bushings on your elliptical. It also can’t be returned through Amazon due to safety reasons.

What to Consider Before Buying Lubricants for Ellipticals

Before choosing a lubricant for your elliptical, think about how you’ll need to apply it — squeeze bottle, applicator tube, or spray — as well as how you’ll reach those points of friction. Our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, points out that you’ll also want to consider whether you’ll be able to keep up with the required maintenance. 

[Related: Build Your Own Iron Paradise With The Best Home Gym Equipment]

“Machines require maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication,” she said. “It’ll be helpful to understand the maintenance requirements ahead of time, so you don’t purchase something you can’t keep up with,” she says. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when you start looking for an elliptical lubricant.

Application Type

Depending on where your elliptical is, reaching the points on the machine that need lubrication may be easier with an applicator tube, squeeze bottle, or spray. Before you choose a lubricant, identify where these points are and make a plan for how much you’ll need to bend and contort to apply it. 

If you’re climbing over a collection of home gym equipment, you may need an extended tube. However, for wider areas like ramps or rails, a spray could be a more efficient and effective way to lubricate your elliptical.

Friction Points

As you rack up the miles, the wheels, ramps, rails, and bushings are all working to support the elliptical movement of the pedals and reduce as much noise as possible. Imagine if you put off changing the oil in your car. It would still run, but the longer those parts operate without lube, the more likely you’ll face functionality problems down the road. 

[Related: The 7 Best Budget Treadmills]

After identifying how many places you’ll need to lubricate, then estimate how much lubricant you’ll need to keep those moving parts running smoothly. Your machine likely has either wheels that ride on narrow ramps or that glide along steel rails. It also probably uses bushings at the connection points between moving metal parts. 

Regular lubrication can help slow down the wear and tear on moving parts that constantly rub against one another, but it needs to be paired with regular cleaning to prevent corrosion brought on by dust, dirt, and sweat. Using gentle cleaning supplies like a mild soap, warm water, and a microfiber cloth will prevent damage to your elliptical’s surfaces. (2)

Frequency of Use

If your elliptical mainly serves as an expensive coat rack, you may not need to worry about lubricating it very often. If you’re using it regularly, however, you should lubricate it regularly. 

We recommend lubricating your machine every three to six months, but if you are spending an hour a day using your elliptical, your preventative maintenance should skew toward the three-month end of that range. If you’re logging an hour a week on your cardio machine, you may be fine with a six-month maintenance schedule.

How Much Do the Best Lubricants for Ellipticals Cost?

Depending on the size of the bottle or mode of application, lubricants for ellipticals can range anywhere from roughly $7 to $24. Some come in packs of multiple bottles, while others include just a small amount. Use the chart below to size up the price difference between the picks on our list.

Our top pick, the Horizon Fitness Silicone Treadmill Lubricant, comes in a pack of three 1.7-ounce bottles, totaling up to 5.1 total ounces, which is $4.70 per ounce. This is the priciest option per ounce, but for gym owners maintaining multiple machines, or for anyone who really racks up the miles, buying in bulk may be the way to go. 

At the other end of the range for 100-percent silicone options is the Impresa Treadmill Belt Lubricant, which comes in one four-ounce bottle and costs $2.50 per ounce. The EZ-Squeeze bottle and precision twist top may offer a bit more control than other options during application.

[Related: The Best Under-Desk Treadmills for Your Office]

The most affordable option on our list — WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease Spray — is not for the wheels, ramps, rails, or drive belt on your elliptical. You should only use this spray for tending to metal bushings or other metal-to-metal connection points. 

Benefits of Lubricants for Ellipticals

When you regularly lubricate your elliptical, you’ll be slowing down the wear and tear of the wheels, ramps, rails, and drive belts that make your machine go. This simple practice can also help reduce irritating squeaks and rumbles and prevent overheating. Check out a few of the benefits of lubricating your elliptical.

Prolonged Use

As gym owner and certified personal trainer Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, notes, regularly maintaining your elliptical can help prevent major issues from manifesting over the life of your machine. Translation: more value for your hard-earned cash. 

“Your equipment will be good to you if you’re good to it,” she says. “Lubricating an elliptical on the ramp and wheels keeps the pedals moving smoothly and could potentially elongate the life of the machine by reducing unnecessary wear and tear.”

For the price of a bottle of lubricant and a few minutes of your time every three to six months, regular lubrication of the wheels, ramps, drive belt, and bushings can keep your elliptical — along with your bank account — happy and healthy for the long term. 

Smoother Operation

The moving parts of your elliptical — wheels, ramp, rails, drive belt, and bushings — are in constant motion and creating consistent friction. Like the brakes in your car or hinges on your doors, they need a bit of lubrication to keep them working smoothly and quietly. As these parts rub or glide against each other, they can generate friction and create noise. It can be annoying, sure, but it can also indicate that those friction points are a little dry. Adding a touch of lubricant can reduce the friction between the parts, thus cutting down on noise during a workout.

Prevent Overheating

Part of caring for the moving parts on your elliptical is to prevent overheating, which can quickly cause damage. Lubricating your elliptical every three to six months creates a buffer between parts that can help prevent the build up of heat during operation. (1)

[Related: The 10 Best Treadmills for Walking, Researched and Tested by Our Team]

Just like when you rub your hands together to warm them up, the wheels, ramps, rails, or drive belts create friction that is converted into heat energy. Whether it’s the drive belt of an elliptical or tread belt on a treadmill, these moving parts need to be maintained to keep them running smoothly. A little bit of lubricant between the parts can reduce the friction that causes overheating.

Final Word

For any elliptical, regular maintenance can help reduce loud squeaks or rumbles during use and help you get more for your money by prolonging its overall lifespan. While it’s easy to just step aboard and press “go,” it’s important to note that the wheels, ramps, rails, drive belts, and metal bushings on your machine need care to keep functioning properly. 

To keep your machine in tip-top shape, adding a bit of a buffer between these moving parts by lubricating them every few months can go a long way. We think using one of the best lubricants for ellipticals is well worth the few minutes it takes to apply to these points of friction because it can result in a more enjoyable, safer elliptical experience. If you’d prefer to add a few drops of lubricant to your elliptical instead of taking on a major repair, check out our picks.

FAQs

References

1. Stevenson, C. (2023, May 5). How to lubricate your elliptical? where, why & how to tips. How to Lubricate Your Elliptical? Where, Why & How To Tips. https://www.treadmilldoctor.com/blog/how-why-and-where-to-lubricate-an-elliptical 
2. L., A. (2024, April 1). Elliptical maintenance 101: Tips for longevity and Peak Performance. NutroOne. https://nutroone.com/en/2024/04/01/elliptical-maintenance-tips/ 

The post The 4 Best Lubricants for Ellipticals of 2024, Approved by Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

There are many different types of belts and their availability, like most lifting accessories, has grown with the popularity of strength training. Consumers are often bombarded with different types of materials, latching mechanisms, and disciplines, which can leave them wondering — which is the best belt for me? Luckily, we have made a list of our top picks for the best weightlifting belts in different categories, such as sport, lift specific, and budget. 

Best Weightlifting Belts

• Best Weightlifting Belt Overall: Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt
• Best Lever Weightlifting Belt: Gymreapers 10MM Lever Weightlifting Belt
• Best Weightlifting Belt for CrossFit: Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Olympic Weightlifting: Iron Bull Unleash 7mm
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Deadlifts: Gymreapers 10MM Lever Weightlifting Belt
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Small Waists: 2POOD 3-inch Weightlifting Belt
• Best IPF Approved Belt: Iron Bull Premium 10mm 4” Lever Belt
• Most Comfortable Weightlifting Belt: Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt
• Best Colors, Designs, and Patterns: 2POOD Customizable Weightlifting Belts 
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Squats: Gymreapers 7MM Leather Belt
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Support: Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt
• Best Weightlifting Belt for Beginners: Iron Bull 6-Inch Reinforced Belt

Best Weightlifting Belts Video Review

BarBend expert tester and certified nutrition coach Jake Herod shares our picks for the best weightlifting belts. Whether you’re looking for the best value, the best weightlifting belt for deadlifts, or the best option for beginners, we’ve got you covered.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Weightlifting Belts

We test belts on a variety of criteria, and each category receives special attention to decide which belt deserves the top pick. We chose belts based on an array of factors but ultimately looked at their stability or support provided, how mobile you can remain with the belts on, and their level of comfort. This is one of the few lists where the price wasn’t weighed super heavily because belts all generally fall within a narrow price range based on the type of belt, and we think it’s worth spending a little extra on a piece of safety and support equipment.

Stability

The primary purpose of a belt is to help provide added stability to your core and mid-section when lifting by increasing abdominal pressure during your lift. That’s why the amount of support and stability a belt provides is the highest priority on our list of how we chose the best weightlifting belts. We looked at how much each belt contributed to stability with regard to material and how each belt was fastened (lever, quick-lock, hook and loop, etc.), and belts that excelled in their category were ranked higher than other less supportive belts. 

Mobility

The flip side of stability and support is also something that needs to be taken into consideration. What good is an ultra-supportive belt if you can’t move enough to complete your lift? The highest-ranking belts on our list pair a high level of support with an unrestrictive design that still allows you to move naturally through the range of motion of a lift. Belts that impede movement or, worse, pinch and cause pain weren’t ranked well if they made the list at all.

Comfort

This point is a combination of the previous two. A belt isn’t always worn for heavy singles — you may want to wear it for higher-rep sets, so you have extra support when you become fatigued deep into the set. The best belts are comfortable to wear despite their support and should inspire confidence without being distracting or painful. Some belts do require a breaking-in period, which is understandable, but lower-quality belts oftentimes never break in, and those types of belts aren’t included on our list. 

[Related: Does The Ketogenic Diet Work For Strength Training?]

Best Weightlifting Belt Overall: Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt

The main purpose of a weightlifting belt is to offer core support and stability while you are lifting. It’s designed to assist you in bracing and to move with you without getting in the way. As something that assists you, it should be easy to put on and take off — no one wants to struggle to get their belt off after crushing a hard set or a new personal record, which is why we like the Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt so much.

Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt

Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt

The belt is made of 100 percent nylon, and a steel roller that is built to last. The consistent four-inch size all around the belt provides even pressure to increase confidence in your core tightness, and the material isn’t prone to pinching the skin during squats or deadlifts. 

Shop Gymreapers

This belt from Gymreapers does everything a lifting belt should, plus, it’s easy to dial in the perfect fit, thanks to the locking buckle system. The design allows you to adjust the support to exactly how much you want or need for any particular set — you can ratchet it down for a one-rep max squat attempt or loosen it up a bit to wear during a CrossFit WOD. The belt is made of high-quality material with 100 percent nylon, and the buckle’s steel roller is built to last. When you are finished with your set, simply pull the velcro strap loose and move on to your next exercise with ease.

The consistent four-inch size all around the belt provides even pressure to increase confidence in your core tightness, and the material isn’t prone to pinching the skin when doing squats or deadlifts. The color options and logo are also great, with an array of colors and sizes XS to XXL to choose from.

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XS-XXL
• Colors: Black Patch, Black, Black Camo, Gray, Green, Navy, Pink, Purple, Red, Tan, White Camo, Woodland Camo
• Price: $34.97

Pros

• The quick-locking buckle allows lifters to choose the exact amount of pressure and support their belt provides. 
• This belt is easy to strap on and take off hassle-free multiple times during a workout, so it’s a great choice for CrossFitters.
• The support and ease of use make it also ideal for competitive weightlifters who are looking for a belt to wear during competitions.

Cons

• If you want a leather option with a buckle or lever, this isn’t the belt for you. 
• The uniform four-inch design of this belt won’t suit people who like tapered belts.
• There’s no added padding on the interior belt, so if you’re looking for something cushy, look elsewhere.

The Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt is a solid all-around choice for any weightlifter, weekend warrior, or functional fitness athlete. It has a great build, high-quality material, is easy to put on and take off, and it has a lifetime replacement guarantee against defects.

Read our full Gymreapers Quick Lock Weightlifting Belt Review.

Best Lever Weightlifting Belt: Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt

Lever belts — the belt of choice for Strongman competitors and a large percentage of powerlifters — offer the secure locking of a buckle belt with the convenience and quickness of a lever system for fastening. The Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt is our favorite for this category.

Normally, leather belts are not as comfortable as other options until broken in, which can take some time — and oftentimes be painful. That’s not the case with this belt — the smoothed stitched edges and supple leather make the belt comfortable and ready to use out of the packaging. During our testing, we were pleasantly surprised that the belt didn’t even require a break-in period. But it doesn’t skimp on support — at four inches wide with a thickness of 10mm, you can expect maximum stability and support from this belt.

It’s made from high-quality leather with an interior suede liner for moisture control, comes with Gymreapers lifetime replacement guarantee, and is USPA approved — so if you plan on competing in Powerlifting, you won’t have to change equipment. Gymreapers even has a helpful video on how to size and assemble the lever when you receive it, as well as cleaning and care instructions on their website.

Specs

• Material: Leather
• Fastener: Lever
• Sizes Available: XS-XXL
• Colors: Black, Gray, Military Green, Red, Navy, White Camo, Black Camo, Woodland Camo
• Price: $120

Pros

• If you want maximum support and stability, the thickness of this belt will definitely provide it.
• This belt is USPA approved, so you can use it on USPA Powerlifting competitions.
• The lever belt design makes it easy to really ratchet down the belt for a tight fit. 

Cons

• You can only adjust the belt’s buckle with a screwdriver, which makes it pretty much impossible to do on the fly.
• Looking for a belt without animal products? This belt is made of leather, so keep looking.
• The thickness of the belt is great for powerlifting, but not ideal for functional fitness or weightlifting.

This belt is the real deal — it checks all the right boxes and is made from high-quality materials with a one-year replacement guarantee on both the lever and the belt.

Read our full Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt Review.

Best Weightlifting Belt for CrossFit: Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt

If you are participating in CrossFit, you know versatility is key, whether that means your ability to do well in a variety of aspects of fitness, or in this case, your lifting gear. The lifting belt that we think is best for CrossFit is the Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt. The Element 26 is the right blend of ease of use and functionality that CrossFitters demand from their equipment.

We love the versatility of this belt, which can be used to provide support for anything from Olympic Lifting to CrossFit competitions. The nylon and velcro construction allows you to put on and remove the belt quickly and easily when transitioning from one exercise to another (such as hang cleans to handstand push-ups, where you want the support of the belt for hang cleans, but need it off for movement during the handstand pushups).

The high-quality 100 percent nylon and full metal easy on/off self-locking buckle make this belt a simple choice for any CrossFit athlete. It also comes with a lifetime warranty and is available in eight different colors to match your aesthetic.

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XS-XXL
• Colors: Black, Miami Pink, Purple, White, Green, Midnight Blue, Ranger Tan, Red
• Price: $34.97

Pros

• The easy-on/easy-off nature of this belt makes it perfect for workouts that combine weightlifting with gymnastics.
• This belt comes at a great price, considering its features and build.
• The quick-locking buckle allows for fast adjustments during multi-movement workouts.

Cons

• This belt is a uniform width all around, so if you want a tapered belt, this isn’t the one for you.
• The hook and loop closure is secure during most lifts but may pop open during heavy squats or deadlifts.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use belt that can be worn no matter the WOD, look no further than the Element 26.

Read our full Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt Review.

Best Weightlifting Belt for Olympic Weightlifting: Iron Bull Unleash 7mm Belt

The topic of belts is a sensitive one in some Olympic Weightlifting circles. Some athletes prefer to wear them for both the snatch and clean-and-jerk (like Lasha Talakhadze), whereas other athletes prefer not to wear them at all, as they say a belt can interfere with the bar movement. That is why we recommend the Iron Bull Unleash 7mm Belt if Olympic Weightlifting is your thing. The tapered nature of the belt, from four inches in the back to two inches in the front, helps to minimize the possible interference it might cause in the bottom of your lifts.

Iron Bull Unleash 7mm Belt

Iron Bull Unleash 7mm Belt

This lifting belt has a tapered design, measuring four inches in the back and two inches in the front. The leather provides maximum support and you can buy this product in four different colors.

Shop Iron Bull

A great weightlifting belt needs to ride that fine line between support and mobility. And this Iron Bull belt rides that line thanks to its seven millimeter thickness (for stability) and vegetable-tanned leather that’s soft enough to allow a free range of movement. Plus, reinforced stitching and high-quality materials mean you won’t have to worry about durability with this belt.

The tapered nature of this belt ensures it won’t get in the way as you bend over in the bottom portion of your lifts, but it still provides the support you are seeking due to the wider leather around the sides and back of the belt. This belt is high-quality and worth the money if Olympic Lifting is your goal. 

Specs

• Material: Leather
• Fastener: Buckle
• Sizes Available: S-XXL
• Colors: Black, Red, Green, Grey
• Price: $60

Pros

• The tapered front offers a free range of motion through Olympic lifts. 
• Vegetable tanning makes the belt feel broken in right out of the box. 
• Reinforced stitching and high-quality leather mean this belt will last a long time.

Cons

• If you prefer a belt with a uniform width, this isn’t the right belt for you. 
• Leather is more rigid than the fabric-based belts, which may not be ideal for all athletes.
• The buckle fastener doesn’t allow for the smaller size adjustments that a hook and loop fastener would provide. 

Designed specifically for the needs of Olympic lifters, this belt is supportive and sleek, but it shouldn’t cause you to miss lifts unnecessarily.

Best Weightlifting Belt for Deadlifts: Gymreapers 10MM Lever Belt

Of all the lifts that can be associated with belts, the deadlift is probably the most common. There’s a reason it has been called the ‘King of all Exercises’ and whether you pull sumo or conventional, there will come a time when you’ll want to load up the plates and smash a new personal best. When that urge comes, look no further than the Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt. 

Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt

Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt

This lever lifting belt has been rigorously tested for form, fit, and function and is manufactured with premium leather. The design incorporates smooth edges, reinforced stitching, and an adjustable lever buckle attachment.

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This belt is made from high-quality leather with a four-inch width all around and a 10mm thickness to provide the right amount of support without sacrificing mobility. The comfortable smooth edges and reinforced stitching are why we recommend this belt as the go-to for your next deadlift session.

When you deadlift, you want that belt as tight as possible so you have something solid to brace against. The lever fastener on this belt provides a vice-like grip without having to crank away at the belt like you have to do with a buckle. Also, the reinforced stitching is designed to make this belt last a long time and allow you to brace as hard as you like against it without fear of damaging the belt.

Pros

• The suede interior helps soak up moisture and prevent slippage during a lift.
• The lever makes the belt easy to put on and take off, and it really cinches the belt tight.
• At 10mm thick, this belt is designed to provide maximum support. 

Cons

• A lever belt can only be adjusted with a screwdriver, so you can’t make changes to the fit mid-workout.
• The price of this belt may put it out of range for lifters on a tight budget. 
• If you don’t want to use animal products, you’re going to want a belt that isn’t made with leather. 

A high-quality piece of equipment that is designed to help improve your deadlift, this belt is ideal if you’re serious about your deadlifts and want a belt that’s easy to secure and provides maximum support.

Best Weightlifting Belt for Small Waists: 2POOD 3-inch Weightlifting Belt

Finding lifting gear that fits well can be difficult. And for folks who need either smaller-than-average or larger-than-average weightlifting belts, it can be downright impossible aside from placing a custom order. If you need a weightlifting belt that can fit a small or petite waist, 2POOD has you covered.

2POOD 3-inch Weightlifting Belt

2POOD 3-inch Weightlifting Belt

This belt from 2POOD is designed for those with a smaller frame. Sizes available are XXX-Small through Medium. The width is narrower at three inches to make the belt more comfortable for shorter torsos and help prevent digging into the ribs. Nylon material and heavy-duty velcro make this belt versatile too.

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Designed with the needs of smaller lifters in mind, this belt is offered in sizes ranging from XXXS to medium, with a handy sizing chart available on the product page. The three-inch width is narrower than 2POOD’s typical four-inch width to accommodate for shorter torsos and avoid digging into the ribs. To fasten, this belt uses a “WODClamp” hook and loop system with heavy-duty velcro to keep the belt in place. 

The WODClamp system is designed by 2POOD to help reduce pressure and improve the longevity of the velcro. Despite being highly supportive, this nylon belt is quite flexible and can be used for a variety of types of lifting. The flexibility allows you to easily transition between lifting heavy and other movement-based exercises. The three-inch weightlifting belt comes in nine unique designs and costs about $64.99 before tax and shipping. 

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XXXS-M
• Styles: Diamond, Metamorphosis, All The Rave, Midnight Tie Dye, Sunflowers, Black Magic (Sparkle), White Marble, Classy Bling Rose Gold, Operator, Pineapple
• Price: $64.99

Pros

• The narrower design is perfect for lifters with smaller frames.
• This nylon belt is extremely flexible, which makes it ideal for everything from lifting to CrossFit WODs. 
• You can customize the belt to fit your style or aesthetic.

Cons

• If you want a more supportive belt, this one might be too thin.
• It’s in the middle of the average price range, but you can find cheaper belts. 

Lifters come in all shapes and sizes — and their gear should too. Whether you have a shorter torso or a smaller waist, this belt is designed to accommodate your body type. The versatile nature gives you support when you need it and flexibility otherwise. 

Best IPF Approved Belt: Iron Bull 10mm 4” Lever Belt

Just like you need an NBA-approved basketball to play a game in the league, you need an IPF-approved belt to compete in powerlifting. So, if you’re thinking of signing up for a powerlifting meet, the Iron Bull 10mm 4” Lever Belt is the IPF-approved belt you want in training and competition.

Iron Bull 10mm 4" Lever Lifting Belt

Iron Bull 10mm 4" Lever Lifting Belt

This lifting belt is made with durable, supportive leather with a non-slip, comfortable suede interior. This belt is also IPF approved, so you can use it in powerlifting training and competition. 

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This belt is made with durable leather, so it can withstand plenty of use without fraying. Although leather can feel a bit rougher than some other, padded materials, this one has a suede inside, so it’ll feel soft against your skin, and won’t slip and move up and down your torso. 

Unlike more traditional belts with a standard buckle closure, this one has a lever. This fastening system allows for a perfectly-snug fit, helping you feel locked into the belt, according to our tester. This fastening is also much easier and quicker to take off between sets. All you have to do is pull the lever and the belt instantly loosens.

One downside? This belt is pretty pricey. If you do a quick search, you’ll see that most lever belts are more expensive than standard buckle weight belts. However, this one is on the pricier end of the spectrum. But given the high-quality buffalo hide exterior and precise lever fastener, we think it’s worth the money, especially considering it’s IPF approved.

“[It has] a high-quality construction,” our tester says. “Once you get your hands on it, you understand why it has a steep price tag. The buffalo hide exterior is luxurious and isn’t stiff enough to demand a break-in period.” 

Specs

• Material: Leather
• Fastener: Lever
• Sizes Available: XS-4XL
• Styles: Black
• Price: $175

Pros

• This belt is approved by the IPF and can be worn in powerlifting competitions.
• The lever fastening system is easy to use and allows for a precise, non-slip fit.
• Unlike some other leather belts, this one has a suede interior that’s soft and stays in place.

Cons

• This one is pricier than other weightlifting belts.
• The lever may feel a bit clunky or heavy at first.

Whether you’re an experienced powerlifter looking to replace your belt or a newbie that’s prepping for competition, this Iron Bull belt is worth every penny. The durable construction and rigid stability is exactly what you need as you lift, squat, and press heavy weight. 

Most Comfortable Weightlifting Belt: Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt

Anyone who’s ever bought a new lifting belt has likely gone through the awkward (and oftentimes painful) period of breaking the belt in. For those who’d like to skip that step and get straight to lifting with minimal pinching and discomfort, the Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt is the way to go.

Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt

Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt

The Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt is made with 100% nylon and offers a lifetime warranty. The locking system allows users to find the perfect amount of pressure and easily lock the belt into place.

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We love the versatility of this belt, which can be used to provide support for anything from Olympic Lifting to CrossFit competitions. An even size of four inches all around allows for great support, while the stitched and rolled edges help to virtually eliminate pinching of the skin — making this belt both supportive and comfortable. While some people with very short torsos may find the belt width to be too wide at four inches, the majority of lifters will find this belt to be among the most comfortable they’ve worn.

The nylon and velcro construction allows you to put on and remove the belt quickly and easily when transitioning from one exercise to another (such as hang cleans to handstand push-ups, where you want the support of the belt for hang cleans, but need it off for movement during the handstand pushups). It comes with a lifetime warranty and is available in eight different colors to match your aesthetic. 

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XS-XXL
• Colors: Black, Miami Pink, Purple, White, Green, Midnight Blue, Ranger Tan, Red
• Price: $34.97

Pros

• The nylon material in this belt means there’s no break in period. 
• The self-locking mechanism keeps the belt securely fastened while the velcro allows for a quick on and off transition.
• This belt is on the lower end of the price range, which is a big deal considering the features included.

Cons

• Trainers looking for a tapered belt should look elsewhere.
• If you regularly lift close to your max weight, you may want to look for a thicker belt.
• This belt’s four-inch wide design might be too wide for some athletes.

A belt is only helpful if you actually wear it. If your lifting belt is too uncomfortable and pinches your skin a bunch, then it essentially becomes useless because you’ll never want to wear it. With this belt, you can breathe a sigh of relief while performing heavy movements — just not during your set.

Best Colors, Designs, and Patterns: 2POOD Customizable Weightlifting Belt

Workout gear isn’t just for supporting your lifts. You can use the design of your weightlifting belt to express yourself or show support for your favorite things. If you like to show off through your gear and want a fully custom weightlifting belt, the 2POOD customizable weightlifting belt is our favorite choice.

2POOD Customizable Weightlifting Belt

2POOD Customizable Weightlifting Belt

This belt from 2POOD is fully customizable from the background and embroidery to the velcro webbing and trim with different images and colors. Choose between the three-inch or four-inch width versions and sizes from XXX-Small to XXX-Large (or larger). 

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The first step in ordering your custom belt from 2POOD is deciding between the four-inch version or the three-inch wide version. The three-inch version is ideal for those with shorter torsos or those who prefer a lower profile in their lifting belt. To figure out which size to order, you can utilize the nifty and descriptive sizing guide on their website. They offer sizes XXXXS through XXXL.

The customization process is actually very straightforward with 2POOD — simply check out with the belt and size you want, and they will send you a form with customization questions where you can upload the photos and designs you’d like. You can customize the entire belt, including the background, embroidery, velcro webbing, and trim with different images and colors. You’ll have one round of revisions with their designer, as well. Just remember not to submit any images that you don’t own the rights to, and allow four to six weeks for production since it is a custom item. 

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XXXXS-XXXL
• Colors: Customizable
• Price: $129.99

Pros

• You can completely customize this belt using any image that you have the rights to.
• The flexible nylon is ideal for everything from weightlifting to CrossFit movements.
• These belts are USAW and IWF compliant, so weightlifters can use them in competition.

Cons

• This product only comes with hook and loop fastening, so if you want a buckle or lever arm, this isn’t the belt for you. 
• If you lift heavy often, you may want a thicker belt for more security.
• If you don’t care about a customizable belt, there are cheaper options with similar benefits.

If you want your lifting belt to represent your nickname, lifting team, gym, or anything else, it’s a great option. Aside from being fully customizable, it’s a solid weightlifting belt overall with two width options and a wide variety of sizes. 

Best Weightlifting Belt for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Leather Belt

The squat is second only to deadlift when it comes to lifts that are associated with lifting belts. Anyone who’s ever done a heavy squat knows the importance of a high-quality belt when it comes to bracing the core and increasing intra-abdominal and thoracic pressure. Being a dynamic movement with a large range of motion does lend this lift to belts that are not quite as thick as optimal belts for deadlifts, though. That is why we chose the Gymreapers 7mm Leather Belt as our pick here.

Gymreapers 7MM Leather Belt

Gymreapers 7MM Leather Belt

This belt is slightly tapered — it has a four-inch width around the back tapering to three inches in the front with a 7mm leather thickness. The dual prong buckle keeps it secure, and the premium leather and double stitching ensure this belt will last.

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This belt is slightly tapered and designed for squatting — its four-inch width around the back tapers to three inches in the front so you can get into the bottom of the squat position without any interference. The dual-prong buckle means that once the belt is on, it isn’t going anywhere. Premium leather and double stitching ensure this belt will last and can accommodate your toughest squat sessions — but the taper means the belt shouldn’t feel bulky or obtrusive and won’t dig into you when squatting. 

The dual-prong locking buckle ensures that your belt won’t pop open at the bottom of the lift,  and the 7mm thickness provides just enough support without impeding your motion throughout the squat. It even comes with its own carrying case, which is pretty handy.

Specs

• Material: Leather
• Fastener: Buckle
• Sizes Available: XS-XXL
• Colors: Black
• Price: $49.99

Pros

• The 7mm thickness is extremely supportive but is less likely to pinch or bruise your skin the way a 10mm belt might.
• The leather is supple right out of the box with no break-in period.
• This belt has a buckle fastening system, which is less likely to pop open during a squat than a hook-and-loop-style fastener.

Cons

• This only comes in a buckled version, so if you prefer a lever or velcro fastener, you’ll have to look somewhere else.
• It tapers from four to three inches in width from the back to the front, so if you want a uniform width, this isn’t the right belt for you.
• If you’re looking for maximum support, you’ll want a thicker belt. 

The Gymreapers 7mm Leather Belt is an excellent choice to support your squat sessions and even maxes. The comfortable construction can help prevent unwanted pinching of the skin, and the one-year replacement guarantee will give you confidence that you’ve found a great product.

Read our full Gymreapers 7mm Weightlifting Belt Review.

Best Weightlifting Belt for Support: Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt

When you’re lifting heavy and pushing your limits, you want all the support you can have. Donning an ultra-supportive belt can inspire the confidence you need to break through a plateau or crush a new PR. When you reach for a supportive lifting belt, grab the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Lifting Belt

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Lifting Belt

This hybrid lifting belt from Element 26 features a mix of leather and nylon for added versatility, and a self-locking buckle that makes it easy to put on and take off. 

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If you’re looking for a belt with the support of a leather belt but don’t want to sacrifice the comfort and convenience you’d get with a synthetic belt, this is the one. Element 26 has taken the convenience and quickness of a nylon lifting belt and combined it with the support and stability of a leather belt. Essentially, this belt is a six-millimeter, four-inch, 100-percent leather lifting belt with a nylon belt attached to the outside. The enclosure mechanism is Element 26’s patented self-locking mechanism and velcro strap, which locks into place and doesn’t move.

The six-millimeter thickness means the break-in period on this belt is very short — as quick as one or two sessions. The main advantage of this belt over a traditional leather belt is the double support from both leather and nylon, as well as the infinite adjustability. The velcro and self-locking mechanism allow you to adjust this belt to the exact tightness you want rather than breaking out your screwdriver like a lever belt or being stuck with pre-punched holes on a buckle design. You can purchase this belt in sizes from XS through XL, and it even comes with a lifetime warranty. 

Specs

• Material: Nylon/Leather
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: XS-XL
• Colors: Black
• Price: $59.97

Pros

• The hybrid leather/nylon build makes this belt surprisingly supportive despite its six-millimeter thickness. 
• A hook and loop closure makes it simple to dial in the perfect fit.
• The hybrid build also helps the belt to feel broken in from the start.

Cons

• This belt has a uniform width, which may be more likely to pinch in front than a tapered belt.
• There is leather in this belt, which isn’t ideal for people who want to avoid using animal products. 
• While supportive for its 6mm thickness, you will find more support in a 10mm belt.

Element 26 continues to innovate with its products, and this is yet another example of them taking two separate yet useful products and combining them to make a superior one. With this belt, you have the support and rigidity of a leather belt with the ease of use and quickness of a nylon belt — which makes for top-notch support.

Read our full Element 26 Hybrid Weightlifting Belt Review.

Best Weightlifting Belt for Beginners: Iron Bull 6 Inch Reinforced Belt

For those who are just starting out in their fitness journey, finding a good belt can be tough. As a beginner, you want something that’s affordable, comfortable, and easy to use. The Iron Bull 6-Inch Reinforced Belt is just that.

Iron Bull 6 Inch Reinforced Belt

Iron Bull 6 Inch Reinforced Belt

This lifting belt has a reinforced lumbar area to give your back as much support as possible while you lift. The contoured design fits snug against your body, so it stays perfectly in place — and you can adjust the velcro for a perfect fit.

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Slightly larger than the other belts on this list, the six-inch width and four-inch velcro strap provide a large area of coverage for your core and midsection. That wider profile is generally more comfortable, which can be ideal for lifters who aren’t used to the feeling of a lifting belt. The comfort does have somewhat of a trade-off in regards to stability when the weights get higher — the neoprene build and mesh fabric is less rigid than other belts, but for beginners, that shouldn’t be much of an issue.

We also like this belt for beginners because it is made of nylon and doesn’t require any breaking in — this means it is ready to use right out of the package. It’s also one of the more affordable options you’ll find, which makes it ideal for people who are still trying to figure out what they want in a weight belt.

Specs

• Material: Nylon/neoprene
• Fastener: Hook and loop
• Sizes Available: S-XXL
• Colors: Black, Blue, Camo White, Green, Grey, Pink, Red
• Price: $34.99

Pros

• The contoured design and the four-inch, wider reinforced back area offers more than enough support for beginning lifters.
• The price point is on the lower end of the spectrum. 
• It’s very comfortable, thanks to the foam and nylon build.

Cons

• At six inches, this belt is fairly wide, which may not work for people with short torsos.
• Neoprene is comfortable, but not rigid enough to provide as much support as, say, leather.
• This belt is good for beginners but may not provide sufficient stability as you progress to heavier weights.

The six-inch width and four-inch velcro strap provide great coverage of the midsection here. There is somewhat of a trade-off with regard to stability at higher weights thanks to the foam core, but this shouldn’t be much of an issue for beginners. Finally, we like the fact that the neoprene doesn’t require any breaking in, and will likely be comfortable to train in from day one.

Weightlifting Belts Benefits and Research

Weightlifting belts have been a feature of weightlifting for a long time and have been studied quite extensively over the years. There have been investigations into many of the theorized benefits of wearing a belt during training with mixed results.

Injury Risk and Intra-Abdominal Pressure

The first thing to note is that the use of belts seems to be only marginally effective at reducing injuries, but we must take into account that this research was conducted on people at work, not training in the gym. (1)(2) Participants in the study were wearing a belt for their entire day of work. Something that none of you reading this are likely to do.

However, in a training environment, there do seem to be some real benefits. Performance of exercises, such as the squat and deadlift, while wearing the weightlifting belt resulted in greater peak and average intra-abdominal pressure. Other studies found that lifting belt use resulted in reduced spinal compression. (3)(4)(5) But while some research notes the benefit of weightlifting belts, others have suggested that the use of a belt does seem to reduce the range of motion available during movements. (6)

Research Takeaways

Much of this research has been done on working populations and revolves around trying to find ways to reduce injuries. In this area, at least, belts seem to lack effectiveness. However, within the gym, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Increased intra-abdominal pressure when lifting and reduced spinal compression are two things we think many would highlight as unambiguous benefits. At the same time, reducing your range of motion in the gym isn’t necessarily a good thing, so you have to be careful when selecting a belt for the task at hand. 

Our advice

Don’t view the belt as a cure-all. It doesn’t excuse you from doing core work, it doesn’t excuse you from lifting with good technique and it certainly doesn’t mean you can’t get injured. Lifting light and moderate weight without a belt can strengthen your core and keep you accountable to use proper form. Use the belt for max-out days or whenever you need extra support, but during normal workouts, you can leave it in your bag. 

Check out our in-depth Guide to Wearing Weightlifting Belts.

How Much Do Weightlifting Belts Cost?

Weightlifting belts can come in a range of prices, but usually, the type of belt will dictate the price, and most similar style belts will fall within a somewhat narrow range around that price point. Generally, belts will cost anywhere from around $30 for a really cost-effective option to around $200 for a high-end specialty belt or a custom-designed one.

If you’re on a budget and still need a supportive belt, you can pick up a solid one for between $50 and $70, but if you’re looking for specialized powerlifting or Olympic lifting belts, you’ll likely have to pony up a bit more coin — some options can run up to nearly triple that cost. Narrow down what type of lifting you prefer to do and what you’re looking to achieve with your belt as far as support goes, and you should have a rather well-established price range.

What to Consider Before Buying Weightlifting Belts

There has been some innovation in weightlifting belts in recent years, but essentially, belts still serve a straightforward purpose — support the core under heavy weights. Here are the main factors to think about when choosing your belt.

Your Training and Sport

The type of lifting you do is going to have a big impact on the belts you will want to consider. Powerlifters and strongmen are going to want belts that prioritize security above all else. The last thing you want is your belt coming loose in the middle of a heavy deadlift. For everyone else, ease of adjustment, comfort, and other factors will come into play more. 

In CrossFit, Olympic Weightlifting, or bodybuilding you’re unlikely to be hitting quite such high numbers and are more likely to have to transition between a variety of exercises. Here, you’re less likely to want to spend a few minutes tightening and then unfastening your belt after each attempt. The mechanisms and materials are going to be other things you’ll want to pay attention to as well. 

Your Budget

There is a big price range in this market, which means there’s something there for everyone. Some of these belts are handmade with very high-quality materials, and some are designed to be more mass market. At the upper end, you can be spending nearly $150 or more if you get into customization, but if you take care of it, it should last you a lifetime. On the lower end, you can get down to $20, but we wouldn’t expect the same lifespan or security out of those.

Design

The design of a lifting belt usually isn’t going to be a deal-breaker. Belts tend to be functional rather than aesthetic choices, but at the same time, you may have a preference for a more or less traditional design. In that case, a lot of belts offer different color and style options, and there are some that you can fully design and customize. 

Different Types of Weightlifting Belts

There are multiple types of belt designs, but from our tests and reviews, almost every belt tends to technically fall into two major categories: cylinder and tapered.

Each belt has different design attributes to benefit certain types of strength athletes.

Cylinder Lifting Belt

This style belt is the same width at every part and covers the torso equally. They are designed to support the back, abdomen, and sides evenly with the same amount of material. Powerlifters and strongman athletes typically sway towards these belts.

Tapered Weightlifting Belt

This belt is often favored by Olympic lifters and recreational athletes because it provides the posterior with extra width but thins out towards the abdomen. The skinnier portion over the abdomen allows the torso to remain mobile while providing support without being too obtrusive. 

Fastening Mechanisms

Different belts have different locking mechanisms and each has its strengths and weaknesses. When deciding which is best for an athlete, there are some factors that will be decided by training, but mostly it comes down to personal preference. Below are the main types of fastening mechanisms and the main advantages and disadvantages associated with them. 

Buckle

The classic mechanism provides a very secure fit once locked and is easy to adjust. However, it can be difficult to get the buckle locked when you need the belt very tight, and many lifters have needed assistance to close their buckle before a big lift. You are also usually stuck with one-inch increments with the adjustments.

Lever

A lever gives just as secure a fit as a buckle but is more customizable to the user. The downside is that it generally restricts the belt to use by just one person, as changing the fit takes time and often requires tools.

Hook and Loop (Velcro)

Easy to adjust and to take on and off, this type of mechanism is great for sports like CrossFit but is usually a little less secure than a buckle or lever belt. The lifespan may also be shorter unless the Velcro is replaced once it wears down.

Ratchet

Less common, this type of mechanism is great for a super tight fit, but the quality of the ratchet component will be key. Cheaper ratchets have a tendency to pop open under high loads of pressure.

What Materials Are Weightlifting Belts Made Of? 

Generally, weightlifting belts are made from two primary materials: leather and nylon. Leather is hard-wearing and will give you a belt that will mold to your body over time, but it will usually require a breaking-in period. These belts will also require a little TLC, like any leather product. You’ll want to clean them and apply leather conditioner every three to six months to avoid them drying and cracking.

Nylon belts won’t require the same breaking-in period but also won’t end up fitting you quite the same as a well-used leather belt. They are, on the other hand, a little easier to care for and just need the occasional brushing to remove chalk and a hand wash every now and then, depending on how sweaty you get when training.

Why Wear Lifting Belts?

A belt is a useful piece of equipment to keep in your supportive strength arsenal. Belts are primarily used to prevent injury and support the torso during heavier movements by supporting proprioception and the creation of intra-abdominal pressure. The use of a belt can provide a strength athlete with extra support around the torso to increase a lift’s safety.

Every strength athlete can benefit from choosing a belt that’s catered specifically to their sport. Powerlifters and strongman athletes often want a cylinder-styled belt, which is a weightlifting belt that wraps around the torso equally. This type of athlete will typically want a stiffer or more rigid belt for strength movements, as they’re often pressing, squatting, and deadlifting.

An Olympic lifter needs a weightlifting belt that provides support but also versatility. The typical Olympic weightlifting belt usually comes tapered, so the posterior is thicker in width than the front of the belt. The stiffness and material of this athlete’s weightlifting belt usually come down to personal preference, as this athlete is performing power movements often.

The recreational and functional fitness athlete will often want a weightlifting belt that provides support, comfort, and versatility. Since these athletes perform multiple movements during a single workout, then they need a belt that holds up well with power and strength exercises.

Final Word

There are coaches out there who discourage ever using lifting belts, but lifting belts are a tool just like weightlifting shoes, foam rollers, or supplements.  Stating that you should never use belts is akin to a carpenter saying he would never use a flathead screwdriver. They have their place, but you have to make sure you know why you’re using them and practice using them beforehand. On the other end of the spectrum, you shouldn’t be wearing a belt for every single exercise in your training plan. 

A good weightlifting belt is a part of every lifter’s arsenal, but before you buy your belt, consider things like how you plan to use it, how much support you need, and how much you’re willing to spend. Once you have your wants and needs dialed, you can use this guide to help you find one that’s perfect for you.

FAQs

References

1. Kraus JF, Schaffer KB, Rice T, Maroosis J, Harper J. A field trial of back belts to reduce the incidence of acute low back injuries in New York City home attendants. Int J Occup Environ Health. 2002 Apr-Jun;8(2):97-104. doi: 10.1179/107735202800339073. PMID: 12019686.
2. Mitchell LV, Lawler FH, Bowen D, Mote W, Asundi P, Purswell J. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of employer-issued back belts in areas of high risk for back injury. J Occup Med. 1994 Jan;36(1):90-4. PMID: 8138856.
3. Lander JE, Hundley JR, Simonton RL. The effectiveness of weight-belts during multiple repetitions of the squat exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1992 May;24(5):603-9. PMID: 1533266.
4. Harman EA, Rosenstein RM, Frykman PN, Nigro GA. Effects of a belt on intra-abdominal pressure during weight lifting. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1989 Apr;21(2):186-90. PMID: 2709981.
5. Bourne ND, Reilly T. Effect of a weightlifting belt on spinal shrinkage. Br J Sports Med. 1991 Dec;25(4):209-12. doi: 10.1136/bjsm.25.4.209. PMID: 1810615; PMCID: PMC1479027.
6. Giorcelli RJ, Hughes RE, Wassell JT, Hsiao H. The effect of wearing a back belt on spine kinematics during asymmetric lifting of large and small boxes. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2001 Aug 15;26(16):1794-8. doi: 10.1097/00007632-200108150-00015. PMID: 11493853.

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Of course, though, narrowing down your go-to cross-training sneaker can be quite the challenge given how many brands have their hands (err, feet) in the category. Plus, some features like heel-to-toe drop, outsole lug depth, and even upper material can influence your training experience. To help you put your best foot forward in the gym, we’ve laced up dozens of options and profiles to come up with our favorite cross-training shoes on the market today.

The 14 Best Cross-Training Shoes of 2024

• Best Cross-Training Shoes Overall: Reebok Nano X4
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet: NOBULL Trainer+
• Best Cushioned Cross-Training Shoes: TYR CXT-1
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet: Nike Metcon 9
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT: R.A.D. One
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Rope Climbs: Inov-8 Mens F-Lite G 300
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Daily Wear: Born Primitive Savage 1
• Best Budget Cross-Training Shoes: PUMA Fuse 3.0
• Best Barefoot Cross-Training Shoes: Xero Prio
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Treadmill Running: Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Squats: Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Deadlifts: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Walking: Reebok Nano X3 Adventure
• Best Cross-Training Shoes for Arch Support: Hoka Kawana

How We Tested and Chose the Best Cross-Training Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the cross-training shoes available today, we got hands-on with over 70 different kicks from the industry’s best brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). While some footwear profiles have remained unchanged over the years, others have taken on updates outside of a new paint job. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to come up with our findings.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Your heel-to-toe drop, i.e., the change in midsole thickness between your heel and forefoot, can greatly influence your footwear experience in terms of efficiency and comfort. While there’s something to be said about how cozy your shoes feel with a given profile — some athletes may prefer a low- or zero-drop shoe for added connection and stability in their steps — most cross-training shoes will feature some drop to support a blend of foreword motion during runs and grounded support during static lifts like squats and deadlifts.

We tended to favor cross-training shoes showcasing a medium heel-to-toe drop, somewhere between 4 and 8 millimeters. In testing, we found this to be a comfortable middle ground that allowed us to achieve proper stances and movements across different training disciplines without feeling too aggressive in either direction. Of course, we’ve included a few picks outside of this median to appeal to more tastes and preferences (especially when looking at the best weightlifting shoes), but on average, the 6- to 8-millimeter range is what we’d suggest opting for.

Underfoot Cushioning

Your cross-training sneakers should have some sense of cushioning across the foam midsole. After all, clunking through a workout can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to maintaining motivation for regular sessions. However, the amount of cushioning should be different than your go-to running shoes, especially when you’re trying to mix in some strength training across your workout routines.

In testing, we looked for cross-trainers featuring a little bit of coziness with heightened emphasis on stability, i.e., a harder, more rigid underfoot experience. This may seem unwanted when pacing through a session, but in actuality, having a harder footbed can be ideal for creating a grounded setup for lifts like back squats, deadlifts, and hard pivots during agility drills. You don’t want to fight through mountains of plush cushioning to find your footing, as this can lead to some imbalances and potential ankle issues.

Outsole

The best shoes for cross training should help you keep your feet secure during exercises and agile multi-directional movements. You’d likely never wear a pair of kicks again if each step left you slipping and sliding across the turf, gym floor, or parking lot (there’s a reason we aren’t working out in dress shoes).

While traction is key to a cross-training shoe’s rubber outsole design, you don’t need to have burly, deep lugs underfoot that turn your sneakers into off-road tires. These would be more prevalent in trail-running shoes. Instead, we looked for cross-training sneakers showcasing a more subdued outsole lug pattern with short, grippy lugs or a tacky herringbone pattern — in keeping with the tire mentality, cross-training outsoles should be the equivalent of street tires.

Upper Material

Outside of bringing the style points to your cross-trainers, you should also look for shoes with worthwhile upper materials. This means finding a pair of training kicks that are breathable enough to prevent sweat build-up, yet sturdy and durable enough to withstand regular abuse.

In testing, we looked for strong knit uppers first and foremost, as we’ve learned that this lightweight textile can be helpful in regular wear and tear (mesh uppers can also be worthwhile picks). Additionally, any extra synthetic overlays, especially around the toe box and lateral and medial sides, were viewed as positives since they can help protect the materials from rips and tears during movements like box jumps and rope climbs.

[Related: 8 Tips For Improving Your Rope Climb]

Finally, we also took the overall design of the shoe into consideration when curating this guide. It’s one thing to have a cross-trainer built precisely for your training needs, but it’s another to have a pair that looks as good as it performs. 

Price

We understand that shoes can be expensive. Thankfully, we’ve found that cross-training shoes don’t normally break the bank. Most of the profiles included in this round-up cost between $100 and $150, with a handful of cheaper and more expensive options thrown in, too.

We found that more specialized sneakers, such as lifting clogs, upped the price tag more often than not given their extra engineering and more sport-specific profile. Additionally, minimalist or barefoot cross-training shoes were often less expensive, which makes sense given the lack of materials used across their silhouettes. While preferences and needs are subjective to each athlete, we feel confident in saying that most can purchase a high-quality pair of gym shoes within this $100 to $150 range.

[Related: How to Choose the Perfect Cross Training Shoe]

Best Cross-Training Shoes Overall: Reebok Nano X4

Reebok Nano X4

Reebok Nano X4

The Reebok Nano X4 training shoes elaborate on the footwear’s previous iteration. These shoes make the most of a refined Lift and Run Chassis System that creates excellent support across multiple movements, and a new Flexweave Knit upper helps keep each step cool, comfortable, and locked in for performance.

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If you’re looking for a do-it-all cross-training sneaker, why not choose the “Official Shoe of Fitness”? The Reebok Nano X4 is the latest iteration of one of the most popular gym shoes, boasting a comfortable, stylish Flexweave knit upper, innovative Lift and Run Chassis System, a lightweight yet stable Floatride Energy foam midsole, and a grippy outsole that can be great for keeping you locked into training.

I’ve been working out in these Nano X4s for a while now, and really enjoy how fine-tuned the Lift and Run Chassis System has become since its introduction in the Nano X3. This midsole tech can transition between hard stability for strength training, and cushioned comfort for cardio. While I wouldn’t take on a marathon in the Nano X4s, it is nice to have some footwear support when trying to add some treadmill running into my regimen without the need to swap out kicks.

[Related: Running on a Treadmill Vs. Running Outside — Which Is Best for Your Goals?]

In terms of the overall fit, I’d score the Nano X4s at 4.5 out of 5. From my experience with the shoes — and previous Nano iterations, for that matter — these Reeboks run true to size. However, I could see where wider-footed athletes may need to size up. The Flexweave upper is sort of malleable, meaning you could spill over the midsole shelf as the knit has little stability across the lateral and medial sides.

This Flexweave upper also plays into my 4 out of 5 durability rating. I love the lightweight nature of the design and have yet to experience any sweaty toes or hot spots post-training. However, the lightweight nature of the textile does leave me cautious about taking on regular rope climbs, box jumps, or burpees out of fear of rips and tears. I could be playing it safe here, but I’d still recommend being somewhat conservative before putting these X4s through the wringer.

Finally, the outsole scored a 4 out of 5 for me thanks to its flat profile that allowed for easy grounding during squats and deadlifts. I also felt a good sense of traction when traversing gym floors, but would recommend a more lug-heavy design if you mainly work out on turf. You don’t want to slide out of agility drills because your shoes can’t grasp the artificial surface.

Read our full Reebok Nano X4 Review.

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Flat Feet: NOBULL Trainer+

NOBULL Trainer+

NOBULL Trainer+

These shoes are versatile with components like a wider outsole and EVA midfoot plate for traction and stability. They're also lightweight and have a subtle heel rise making them just as well-suited for lifting as they are for agility or plyometric workouts.

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Flat-footed athletes will likely want a lower heel-to-toe drop that doesn’t put their foot at an uncomfortable angle. Additionally, a lower medial arch can help cradle your natural footprint rather than stress it. The NOBULL Trainer+ features a simple, flat insole and a 4-millimeter drop, both right in-line with the needs of flatter-footed gym-goers.

NOBULL has recently rebranded the Trainer+ model to the IMPACT, but the technology and features remain the same. This elevated workout shoe stands in difference to the original NOBULL Trainer (now branded as OUTWORK) thanks to a wider toe box for more accommodating fitment, as well as a herringbone-style outsole that can help increase traction over different flooring options like turf or grass.

[Related: NOBULL Trainer Review]

The outsole of the Trainer+/IMPACT is why I often recommend this NOBULL silhouette over the original iteration (and why I rated it at 4.5 out of 5). There’s little difference in traction when setting up for a lift on top of gym flooring or an Olympic platform, but I really appreciate the versatility that the deeper lugs bring to the table.

If you’re familiar with NOBULL, you know that each cross-training shoe profile comes with an abundance of color options. By my count, the Trainer+ is available in 83 different colorways, meaning there’s practically a hue for every personality. That’s not even accounting for the low-top or high-top profiles, either. For these reasons, I scored the Trainer+ at 4.5 out of 5 for style.

Like other NOBULL sneakers, the Trainer+ is predominantly available with the brand’s Superfabric upper. This textured material can be great for hard-nosed training, and I’ve yet to see any rips or tears as a result of training. 

However, you do give up some breathability for all that sturdiness, leading to my 3.75 out of 5 breathability rating. If I know I’m training in these shoes, it’s not uncommon for me to bring a change of socks for my post-workout commute home.

Lastly, the durable Superfabric is somewhat rigid right out of the box, which means you can expect a somewhat lengthy break-in period to achieve that flexible, comfortable fit in future workouts. From my experience, it’s not an aggressive break-in (no blisters were caused in the making of this round-up), but it is a lengthier process than other cross-training sneakers I’ve trained in.

[Related: NOBULL Mesh Runner Review | Are They That Good for Running?]

Best Cushioned Cross-Training Shoes: TYR CXT-1

TYR CXT-1

TYR CXT-1

The TYR CXT-1s have shaken up the cross-training shoe category with an impressive Surge NRG foam midsole, anatomical toe box, and comfortable mesh upper that make this standout sneaker a top rival for other big brands. Additionally, the wrap-around outsole pattern serves as an excellent heel counter, which can be ideal when looking to find that stability for squats and other heavy movements.

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Keeping each stance and step comfortable should be top of mind when choosing cross-training shoes. In my experience, the Surge NRG foam built into the TYTR CXT-1s is one of the best materials for the task, offering up the right blend of stability and plush for a fit that’s well-cushioned and ready for any in-gym challenge.

I scored the comfort at 5 out of 5 for these CXT-1s thanks to this energetic yet soft foam profile, as well as the breathable soft mesh upper that cloaks the top of your foot like your favorite blanket. There is a bit of a break-in period, but I wouldn’t classify the process as uncomfortable — the shoes just take a few workouts to really cater to your personalized footprint.

I have had some durability concerns related to this mesh upper — and have actually ripped the textile after extended use — but this was after months and months of training which included agility drills, box jumps, rope climbs, and other footwear-taxing endeavors. As such, I only docked the durability slightly with a 4.75 out of 5 scoring.

The TYR CXT-1s also feature a wide, anatomical toe box that can make for a great fitment without the need to size up or down. Additionally, the 9-millimeter heel-to-toe drop makes these one of my favorite cross-trainers for back squats thanks to the more forward-leaning setup that sets my knees and hinges at an optimal angle for the correct depth. 

Admittedly, this drop may not be appealing to everyone, but for those tackling regular leg days, it could be worthwhile.

When it comes to style, TYR has done it right since breaking onto the scene at the 2022 CrossFit Games. There are 16 colors to choose from, and I like how the brand routinely offers limited-edition prints to give certain pairs a sense of rarity. I scored the style at 4.5 out of 5, too, because the entire profile is one I wouldn’t mind wearing outside of the gym.

Some training sneakers take a training-focused aesthetic that doesn’t blend into regular style. With these TYRs, though, you can easily see yourself stepping out for a night on the town.

[Related: 3 Reasons Why No Two Squat Stances Look Exactly the Same]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Wide Feet: Nike Metcon 9

Nike Metcon 9

Nike Metcon 9

The latest iteration of the popular cross-training sneaker offers up a wider toe box that can be more accommodating for wider-footed athletes — a positive change from previous Nike Metcon releases. The Nike Metcon 9 still carries on its tradition as a high-quality option for strength athletes, but the hefty 13.55 ounce weight and rigid Hyperplate shank do limit its performance when it comes to cardio-focused sessions.

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Okay, so if you’re up to speed on cross-training shoes of years past, you’d be skeptical to see a Nike Metcon iteration as our pick for the best cross-training shoe for wide feet. The roster of training-focused kicks has traditionally been narrower with a tapered toe box. However, this Metcon 9 iteration spreads its wings with a wider profile that can accommodate more athletes without the fear of hot spots or overspill along the midsole.

While I myself do not have wide feet, I still found the fit accommodating and worthwhile, enough for a 4.5 out of 5 score for the category. You can even see how this latest Metcon iteration caters to wide feet thanks to the more natural silhouette of the toe box.

In terms of versatility, I would give these Metcon 9s a 3 out of 5. As with previous iterations, they are an absolute standout when it comes to strength training movements and static lifts. I always enjoy how rigid and stable the Hyperplate midsole is, especially when pushing for a new deadlift PR.

[Related: How to Run a Faster Mile, According to a Running Coach]

However, this rigidity (along with the 13.55-ounce weight) does hinder the Metcon 9’s efficiency in cardio-based workouts. The midsole is simply too rigid to promote a comfortable stride, and the heavier profile can begin to feel clunky at extended distances. 

If your program calls for sprints or running intervals, I would recommend planning a footwear change before getting into those portions of your regimen.

As far as durability is concerned, the Metcon 9s do the family justice with a profile that can withstand some use and abuse. The mesh upper is plenty sturdy, but still has some give for that optimal fit. Additionally, I like how Nike continues to give the Metcon some synthetic overlays in key areas (like the toe box) for added strength and resistance against rips and tears.

I rated the durability at 4 out of 5, though, because of the wrap-around rope guard that extends into the lateral and medial sidewalls. Not only does this component give the Metcon 9s ample sturdiness for static lifts, but it also serves as a great barrier for efficient rope climbs.

[Related: 6 Reasons Strength Athletes Should Do Rope Climbs (Plus How To Master Them)]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for HIIT: R.A.D. One

R.A.D. One

R.A.D. One

The R.A.D. One is more of a bespoke cross-trainer, as colorways are released in small batches that have created a sort of cult following for these kicks. If you can get your hands on a pair, you’ll find a stylish, stable platform that’s ready to support your training needs time and time again.

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HIIT workouts can put your fitness gear through a lot of wear and tear given the quick changes between exercises as you work through the taxing intervals. As such, you’ll want a cross-training sneaker that can withstand regular wear and tear … like the R.A.D. One. Serving as more of a boutique footwear option for athletes — the brand only offers a handful of colorways in small batches — this impressive gym shoe packs in plenty of durability across its outsole, midsole, and upper construction.

While the wave-like aesthetic and simplified hues were enough to earn this R.A.D. One a 4.5 out of 5 for style, we also appreciated how durable the entire profile was for hard-nosed training. 

The synthetic textile can be hearty enough for rope climbs and other shoe-abusive exercises, and I’ve never had an issue with the integrity of the outsole. I attributed this to the high-quality rubber, along with the all-herringbone pattern that gives each step a nice sense of traction.

[Related: The Best HIIT Workouts for Any Fitness Goal]

I’ve also come to enjoy the stability at play with these R.A.D. One cross-trainers, scoring them at 4 out of 5 for the category. The outsole is flat enough for a sturdy setup, whether you’re getting ready for a heavy pull or trying to find your footing for a worthwhile bench press. 

Plus, the 6-millimeter heel-to-toe drop is a nice middle ground for performance — enough to promote a forward lean but not too aggressive that positions feel uncomfortable.

Admittedly, the eight available colorways may be too minimal for some tastes — you won’t find neon hues or loud patterns in this cross-training profile. However, I still feel this aesthetic lends itself to what R.A.D. is trying to accomplish.

[Related: Laura Horvath Wins the 2023 CrossFit Games]  

After all, they’re a new brand that’s essentially flown under the radar when compared to other big-box profiles like Reebok and Nike, yet they still can provide athletes with the underfoot performance needed to succeed. 

Finally, while there’s plenty to like about these R.A.D. One kicks, I do caution that you pay close attention to the sizing. I scored these cross-trainers at 3.75 out of 5 for category, as you may need to size up by one half size in order to achieve that premier fitment.

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Rope Climbs: Inov-8 F-Lite G 300

Inov-8 F-Lite G 300

Inov-8 F-Lite G 300

Made with a graphene-infused outsole and midsole, the Inov-8 F-Lite G 300s are some of the most durable cross-training sneakers on the market. Despite their resilient nature, these gym shoes weigh in at just 10.5 ounces, which can be great for keeping steps quick and nimble through agility drills, box jumps, and other high-intensity endeavors.

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Rope climbs can be some of the most strenuous exercises on your footwear. After all, you’re constantly scraping the medial sides of your kicks across the equipment, which can lead to quick burnout in less-than-capable cross-trainers. With a built-in Rope-Tec system that serves as a graphene-infused barrier (more on this material later) between your shoes and the rope itself, the F Lite G 300s from Inov-8 are our top recommendation for climbing enthusiasts.

We rated these sturdy, resilient cross-trainers at 5 out of 5 for durability thanks to the aforementioned Rope-Tec system, as well as the brand’s inclusion of graphene across the outsole and midsole design. 

Traditionally used for parachutes, graphene is one of the strongest textiles on the planet, yet despite its burliness, doesn’t add on weight to the profile.

“Such durable materials may imply that these shoes would be heavy,” noted our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, “But I was pleasantly surprised that these cross-training shoes weighed in at just 10.5 ounces. This also allowed me to take advantage of the midsole’s responsiveness during quick runs atop multiple surfaces like turf and asphalt.”

[Related: How Much Cardio Is Too Much? Running Coaches Weigh In]

Inov-8 also beefed up this F Lite G 300 with an external midfoot cage, adding some side-to-side stability that can be helpful during static lifts. However, I do caution that you take your time when lacing these kicks up. The cage also serves as the lacing eyelets, and quick tugs for cinching down your laces could lead to rips and tears.

We also scored the appearance of these cross-trainers at 4.5 out of 5. The colorways are stylish enough and appealing to our tastes, but the variety is limited to just 5 available hues. Other cross-training sneakers can offer 10 colorways or more across a single silhouette.

The F Lite G 300s also use a bootie-style upper that hugs your foot and keeps everything in place. That is, however, if you can actually get the shoe on in the first place. 

Our tester rated the fit at 4 out of 5 since the entryway can give some wider-footed athletes a bit of a challenge given the upper’s limited stretch and flexibility. Once on, though, the experience is fantastic.

[Related: Inov-8 Releases F-Lite G 300, the “Toughest Training Shoe to Date”]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Daily Wear: Born Primitive Savage 1

Born Primitive Savage 1

Born Primitive Savage 1

The Born Primitive Savage 1s feature a well-lugged outsole that can be great for outdoor training or turf-centric workouts. Plus, the EVA compound midsole accentuates a light, responsive, and stable underfoot sensation that can be fitting for a slew of training modalities and exercises.

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While I’m not a big proponent for wearing your gym shoes for everyday activities — keeping them separate can help preserve performance and eliminate the chances of bringing excess dirt and muck into your training center — there are some athletes that prefer the feel of cross-trainers for tackling errands, social endeavors, and other daily needs. Thanks to their minimalist styling and lower heel-to-toe drop, the Savage 1s from Born Primitive can be perfect for keeping that active aesthetic whether hitting the weights or the streets.

One of the key features that sets these Born Primitive shoes as go-tos for daily wear is the rugged outsole. The deeper lugs can be ideal for keeping traction underfoot, whether walking through your lawn, across gym flooring to your next set, or from store to store in your neighborhood’s shopping center. As such, we rated the outsole at 4 out of 5.

[Related: Is Walking Good Cardio? Certified Personal Trainers Explain]

Additionally, I appreciate the simple black or white colorways (with some colorized branding), as it can be easier to put a daily outfit together with these kicks as opposed to a more vibrant blue or neon pink option. I scored the style at 4 out of 5, though, because while this simple variety is appealing to me, I understand that others may want some bolder options.

As far as fit is concerned, Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, states, “I found that the inside of the shoe was contoured well enough to support the natural shape of my foot. Arch support was minimal, but these are training shoes, not running shoes, so that’s to be expected. I don’t have any complaints, but no true highlights either — they’re an even-keeled sneaker.” As such, she rated the fit and comfort at 3.5 out of 5.

Speaking of fitment, we should mention that the Savage 1s feature a wider, more anatomical toe box. While this can be a definite perk for wider-footed athletes, it may lead to some excess room for those with narrower feet. Be sure to pay attention to the sizing chart and order the profile that will likely suit your footprint best.

[Related: How to Level-Up Your Daily Movement, According to Dr. Kelly Starrett]

Best Budget Cross-Training Shoes: PUMA Fuse 3.0

PUMA Fuse 3.0

PUMA Fuse 3.0

The Fuse 3.0s from PUMA are the brand’s third installment of budget-friendly cross-trainers. The flat outsole helps create a desirable grounded sensation for heavy lifts, and the durable upper material breaks in easily for that ideal fit set after set.

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As the cross-training category has begun to level out over the years, so has the common asking price of high-quality sneakers. It’s common to see price tags between $135 and $150. However, the PUMA Fuse lineup continues to be a worthwhile wallet-friendly solution for budget-minded athletes, with the 3.0 iteration coming in at just $120.

I’ve owned all three versions of the PUMA Fuse cross-trainer, and feel the 3.0 is the most valuable yet. I’m happy PUMA has expanded the toe box and improved the lacing system of this gym shoe over the years, and I see no big differences between the traction and comfort in these kicks in comparison to my other go-to training sneakers.

[Related: The 12 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2024]

Another reason why I admire these budget-friendly workout shoes is their quick break-in period. Yes, there is a little bit of snugness along the toe box on initial wears, but the upper quickly stretches to their premier balance of fit and performance. You can easily go from box to box jumps with no sense of hot spots or rigid midsoles. 

I rated the break-in at 4.5 out of 5 because these shoes quickly form to your footprint for that perfect match — a definite plus when trying to make the most of your fitness investments.

In terms of stability, I rated the Fuse 3.0s at 4.5 out of 5. The geometry of the midsole gives the heel a sort of flared aesthetic, which can act as a grounded platform ideal for squats or heavy presses. 

Plus, the updated shank within the midsole helps create a more stable underfoot sensation, which can be helpful when, say, taking a wider stance for sumo deadlifts or back squats.

Now, the cost effectiveness does limit your colorway options. Currently, PUMA offers the Fuse 3.0s in Silver Mist-Lime Pow-PUMA Black and PUMA Black-Teak-Lime Pow iterations, a more limited variety in comparison to other cross-trainers on the market. As such, I scored the style at 3 out of 5. Don’t let the lack of vibrant hues fool you, though — this PUMA kick has plenty of bite even despite its affordable price tag.

[Related: PUMA Launches FUSE 3.0 Training Shoe]

Best Barefoot Cross-Training Shoes: Xero Prio

Xero Prio

Xero Prio

For barefoot enthusiasts, these minimalist workout shoes can be just the ticket thanks to their 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, thick and durable upper, and a removable insole that can allow for an even closer ground contact. The Xero Prios are also quite affordable at less than $90 — other high-quality cross-trainers typically cost around $135 or more.

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The barefoot movement has gotten a lot of traction (pun intended) in the running community over the past few years, but the grounded sensation can also be beneficial in the weight room, too. For our money, the Xero Prios are our top pick for minimalist training footwear thanks to their anatomical toe box, sub-$100 price point, and (of course) the 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop.

Admittedly, I’ve been dipping my toes (okay, last one) in minimalist footwear over the past few months and found these Prios to be the best entry point into the discipline. 

The upper cloaked my foot effortlessly, while the outsole provided that helpful safety barrier to keep setups as close to actual barefoot training without worrying about stepping on a loose pebble or rogue bottle cap in the gym. Barefoot training isn’t for everyone, but so far, these shoes have made the learning process an enjoyable one.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training — Can Lifting Without Shoes Help You Make More Gains?]

I also appreciate the versatility baked into these minimalist cross-trainers, scoring them at 4 out of 5 for the category. Yes, the footbed is flexible enough to support both cardio training and strength training, but I also like how the insole is removable, in case you want to get even closer to the ground in your stances.

As far as durability, I rated the Xero Prios at 4.5 out of 5. The upper is thicker than other knit textiles I’ve trained in, which can be great for keeping the profile intact over extended use. 

Granted, thicker materials can often lead to breathability issues — that con isn’t escaped with the Prios, either — but I’m willing to look past this for the sake of heightened durability. Just pack an extra pair of socks and you should be fine.

I will say that these aren’t the sleekest barefoot cross-trainers I’ve found on the market. For one, the available colorways are limited to just 5 hues — a drop-off from the common 10 or more available in other silhouettes. 

Additionally, I scored the style at 3.75 out of 5 because of the fatter rounded laces. They protrude outward over the top of the foot, giving the silhouette a somewhat awkward look at times. If Xero could update this feature to a flat lace in future iterations, I think that would go a long way in improving the overall looks.

[Related: ​​Should You Deadlift Barefoot? Here’s What the Experts Say]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Treadmill Running: Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SE

For athletes looking for a more cardio-minded cross-training sneaker, these Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs can do the trick. These stylish kicks feature an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop that can be more suitable for running on a treadmill, and the bootie-style construction helps keep your entire foot locked onto the midsole without any slop or extra room internally.

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Sure, cross-training shoes are intended to be versatile enough for both cardio and strength-training disciplines, but oftentimes, the design of a shoe can lend itself more so to one modality or the other. As such, I typically recommend keeping a dedicated pair of running shoes at your disposal when looking to hit the treadmill … or just train in these UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs from Under Armour.

I like these kicks for treadmill days because the bootie-style construction provides that locked-in feel, and the 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop is more aligned to my preferred running setup — a little more forward tilt to facilitate sprints and jogs. 

Plus, the 11-ounce overall weight can be light enough for easy pick-ups, which can be a true blessing when your mileage falls at the end of a hard-nosed strength training session.

[Related: The 11 Best Treadmills for Home, Tested and Picked by Our Experts]

The Under Armour UA HOVR Phantom 3 SEs are also plenty stylish with 11 available colorways. The shoes also feature clean lines and subtle enough branding that don’t overwhelm your entire get-up. I rated the style at 4 out of 5.

Versatiltiy-wise, I scored these HOVR Phantom 3 SEs at 3.75 out of 5. I do think they can be worthwhile picks for general strength training and (of course) cardio, but heavier sets can leave you pushing through the UA HOVR foam to try and achieve that grounded stance. I wouldn’t recommend these kicks for PR days in the squat rack or on the deadlift platform.

In addition, there’s a large plastic heel counter that, while aesthetically pleasing, can begin to feel clunky at times. I’ve felt this feature’s presence mostly at longer distances, as well as during multi-directional agility drills.

Lastly, while I like the locked-in fit of the bootie construction, I’ve found that there is some break-in required across the upper. Upon unboxing, the IntelliKnit upper doesn’t stretch as much as I would have hoped, meaning getting into these sneakers can be a chore in itself. 

This also led me to discover the tapered toe box, which created a hot spot along my pinky toe. Yes, the textile does eventually loosen, but I rated the overall fit at 3.75 out of 5 in response to the experience … and recommend wide-footed athletes size up slightly.

[Related: The Top Tips for Running on a Treadmill, According to Running Coaches]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Squats: Adidas Adipower Weightlifting 3

Adidas Adipower III

Adidas Adipower III

The Adidas Adipower III is a unisex weightlifting shoe designed specifically for olympic lifting athletes. The combination of a high-density TPU midsole and leather lockdown strap provides top-notch stability while the extra padding around the collar ensures you don’t sacrifice comfort.

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As the late, great Louie Simmons once said, “Don’t have $100 shoes and a 10-cent squat.” You can perform this beneficial strength training exercise in any of the footwear options we’ve outlined in this guide. However, when it comes to achieving that optimal setup and depth in your movement, we feel the Adipower Weightlifting 3s from Adidas can help you achieve this positioning best thanks to their high-pitched 22-millimeter heel-to-toe drop that allows your knees to travel forward more naturally for a more comfortable plane of motion overall.

I’ve trained in these Adipower 3s before, and think they’re the best representation of a “cross-training shoe” when it comes to weightlifting shoes. It’s no secret that these clogs are designed for specific movements, earning them a 2 out of 5 for versatility. Still, I’ve been able to easily cycle through back squats, Olympic lifts, and other static exercises without much effort thanks to the increased forefoot flexibility. You wouldn’t want to run a mile in these kicks, but they’re not built for that.

The stability underfoot is great in these Adidas weightlifting shoes. I rated the Adipower 3s at 4 out of 5 for the category because it was easy to find my footing each time I went under the bar for a set. There’s also a good sense of traction across the rubber outsole, which can help you keep your feet whether you’re lifting on a hardwood platform or synthetic gym flooring.

[Related: The Best Home Gym Flooring and Expert Buying Guide]

The canvas upper, lacing system, and midfoot hook-and-loop strap also help curate a strong lockdown — a great perk when the last thing you want is to feel your feet moving within your footwear during heavy PRs. 

I rated the security at 4.5 out of 5, but be mindful — canvas is not as breathable as knit textiles, so it may be beneficial to unstrap and let your toes breathe in-between sets every now and again.

Lastly, it goes without saying that these are a more specialized shoe type in the cross-trainer category, and specialization can often lead to higher price tags. The $230 cost is higher than the average $100 to $150 you’ll find in other dedicated cross-trainers, but if you’re looking to boost your squat totals, it may be wise to make the investment.

[Related: 12 Science-Backed Benefits of Squats You Should Know About]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Deadlifts: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

Sleek and minimalist, the TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers are the latest footwear offerings from the growing brand. Featuring easy-to-use Adjustable Stability Straps across the top of the foot, along with a wider anatomical toe box, these barefoot-style training shoes can be great for athletes wanting maximum ground contact for those heavy deadlift days or squat sessions.

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Deadlifts can be a tricky exercise to plan around with footwear. You want the most ground contact possible to facilitate those stable pulls, which is why a minimalist shoe can be ideal for these needs (or even just socks, if your gym allows it). The TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers have quickly become my go-to cross-trainers for deadlift days, because they are essentially an overbuilt sock with a simple strapping system in place of laces, an anatomical footprint, and breathable mesh upper.

The zero-drop makeup of these trainers allows me to easily find my footing for both conventional and sumo pulls, and I also like how grippy the TYRTac rubber outsole is across the platform. I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5 for these reasons.

[Related: The 12 Deadlifts Benefits You Need to Know About]

I also scored the style at 4 out of 5 for these all-new TYR cross-trainers. Granted, the available colorways are limited, but this is to be expected with such a new shoe profile. Over time, I suspect the brand will offer as many color variations as the CXT-1 — TYR’s other popular cross-training footwear (that’s also featured in this round-up).

While the TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer is my top pick for deadlifts, I’ve also found them to be versatile enough for other exercises. The upper is breathable enough that you won’t work up too much of a sweat, and the midfoot Adjustable Stability Straps can help you fine-tune your lockdown for that premier fit in an instant.

Editor’s Note: TYR just released a fully-laced model of the DropZero Barefoot Trainers for athletes more aligned with a traditional security mechanism.

The one caveat that I do have with these Barefoot Trainers is the sizing. The toe box is more anatomical than other cross-trainers, which can lead to more room than desired. I recommend sizing down a half size if you want to achieve that true sock-like fit. In total, I scored the sizing at 4 out of 5 because of this (minor) critique.

[Related: 4 Benefits of the Sumo Deadlift (That You May Have Overlooked)]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Walking: Reebok Nano X3 Adventure

Reebok Nano X3 Adventure

Reebok Nano X3 Adventure

These Nano X3 Adventures from Reebok are designed for the road less traveled. Thanks to a Vibram outsole and water-resistant textile upper, these outdoor-ready cross-trainers can be excellent for training beyond the confines of your dedicated indoor gym.

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Looking for a pair of cross-training shoes to help you reach your daily step counts? Consider the Reebok Nano X3 Adventure series. This outdoor-minded gym shoe is a spin-off of the Reebok Nano X3 silhouette with key features like a water-resistant mesh upper and Vibram ECOSTEP RECYCLE EVO outsole for improved grip and traction over sidewalks, packed trails, and grassy fields.

These cross-trainers are my favorite kicks for spring and summer excursions, as I feel they’re the perfect transition between my in-gym footwear and more aggressive hiking boots that naturally seem like overkill when a walk around the neighborhood park is the agenda for the day. 

I rated the traction at 4.5 out of 5 because the Vibram outsole easily grabs hold of ground, allowing me to step confidently throughout the day — even through (light) mud and gravel-covered pathways.

[Related: Is 10,000 Really the Magic Number? The Science Behind Taking 10,000 Steps a Day]

Now, I wouldn’t classify these as worthwhile hiking shoes for more advanced trails filled with crags and altering pitches, but they are just fine for packed trails and gravel roads. Plus, the water-resistant upper can be helpful in case weather turns for the worse as you’re finishing up your daily miles. 

However, in order to achieve this water-resistant design, Reebok did have to thicken the textile, resulting in a loss of breathability. I scored the Nano X3 Adventures at 3 out of 5 for breathability, as such.

This thicker upper can also begin to rear its head when you start to quicken the. The textile is less flexible than other Nanos designed for in-gym performance, which can result in a creased opening along the boot entry during runs. This opening can be a prime spot for rocks and debris to enter your shoe — a major inconvenience that can be annoying in each step, so it may be best to keep these kicks at a walking pace.

The design, which I rated at 4 out of 5, is Nano-inspired through and through, with tasteful colorways that highlight rugged browns, tans, and greens across the roster. Think of these as the offroad truck to your in-gym Nano’s city sedan.

[Related: Reebok Nano X3 Training Shoes to Release on July 14, 2023; Madison Travel Fund Program Announced]

Best Cross-Training Shoes for Arch Support: Hoka Kawana

Hoka Kawana

Hoka Kawana

With the brand’s roots in running footwear, the Hoka Kawanas are definitely more cardio-minded yet still can support the needs of general fitness enthusiasts thanks to an Active Foot Frame for comfortable arch support and a lightweight, breathable jacquard mesh upper. The CMEVA foam midsole is also plush enough for training, although it may be too pillowy for heavy strength sessions under the bar.

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Having a cross-trainer with arch support can be helpful when looking to keep your feet comfortable in your setups. I often recommend athletes with arch issues turn to performance insoles, or opt for a running-focused sneaker like the Hoka Kawana. With its Active Foot Frame that helps curate a balanced underfoot feel, this shoe can be excellent for cradling your underfoot with just the right amount of cushioning and support.

Now, Hoka is traditionally focused on running and trail running, but there are a few silhouettes that I’ve tested in the gym that have proven to be worthwhile, like these Kawanas. While I wouldn’t wear them for heavy squat days or Olympic lifts — the CMEVA foam midsole is too plush to achieve that desirable ground connection — the arch support can be worthwhile for general training and cardio. I rated the versatility at 3.5 out of 5.

[Related: Why Do My Shins Hurt When I Run?]

Comfort also scored highly with these Hoka Kawanas, earning a 4.5 out of 5 rating in my trials. I’ve been running in Hokas for multiple years now, and really feel like the brand has mastered the foam technology. Each stride is a nice mix of plush and stability, and I also appreciate the SwallowTail geometry at the heel that helps promote a smoother heel strike. This can be a nice benefit when training atop a treadmill after a heavy strength day, and my tiredness leads to compromised form.

In terms of durability, the Hoka Kawanas aren’t the most resilient cross-trainers on the market. After all, the jacquard mesh upper is more attuned to road running than intense in-gym training, so I can’t blame the brand for sacrificing textile strength for a more breathable, comfortable fit.

I rated the durability at 3.5 out of 5, however, because you do need to be cautious when trying to tackle rope climbs, box jumps, or multi-directional movements — you could end up ripping or scuffing the upper more easily than other cross-trainers in this round-up.

[Related: The Best Box Jump Workout for Your Experience Level and Goals]

Benefits of Cross-Training Shoes

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, “Cross-training shoes are great because they eliminate, or at least minimize, the need for multiple pairs of shoes. I maintain that a dedicated shoe for each type of activity is best, but that’s impossible for a lot of people, so cross-training shoes fill that gap there.”

While having a versatile pair of sneakers capable of tackling multiple training disciplines at once is a perk in its own right, below are some other key benefits that can come from adding a high-quality pair of cross-training shoes to your fitness ensemble.

Improved Durability

Let’s be real — using equipment in the gym can put some heavy wear and tear on the gear itself. After all, you’re throwing around weight, pushing your body to new performance levels, and continuously facing challenges like heavy sets or longer mileage. As such, you’ll want some footwear and apparel that can actually take the abuse without batting an eye. 

Cross-training shoes often feature durable uppers and resilient outsoles designed to handle the throes of hard training days. This can be great for keeping your setup comfortable and efficient day in and day out without the need for regular replacement purchases.

Stability for Strength Exercises

While Capritto admits that cross-training shoes aren’t necessarily the best pick for one activity — specialized footwear will always be more efficient for a given task — they can still be great in-gym options that can support your training needs more often than not.

[Related: Get a Leg Up On Your Training With These 8 Exercises for Balance & Stability]

One of the main ways cross-trainers can be excellent workout shoes is through their flat outsole design and stable midsole. Capritto says that cross-trainers often “prioritize a flatter midsole with a mild heel-to-toe drop (4 to 8 millimeters) that has some shock absorption in the form of a foam midsole but doesn’t leave you unsteady on your feet during a heavy set of squats.”

This can help you stay grounded during heavy lifts without any unwanted swaying or imbalances underfoot, leading to better weight control through your plane of motion and a heightened focus on completing the lift rather than keeping your stance intact.

Increased Underfoot Traction

Like stability across the midsole and heel, traction can also be influential to your training setup. You don’t want to be slipping and sliding across the gym floor when making cuts through a drill or setting up for a new PR, right? 

Cross-training shoes employ a flat yet grippy outsole designed specifically for the common flooring options you’d find in a training center like rubber, hardwood, and turf. Some silhouettes even feature a deeper lug pattern which can be helpful for outdoor workouts across gravel, grass, and packed trailways.

[Related: DIY: How to Build Your Own Deadlift/Olympic Lifting Platform]

How Should Cross-Trainers Fit?

Naturally, your cross-training shoes should fit comfortably from the start — there’s no need to scrunch your ankle and toes into a compact silhouette, after all. However, the fit should be somewhat snug without an excess amount of wiggle room, especially if you plan on performing heavy lifts in your training sneakers.

I recommend searching for a gym shoe that cradles the medial and lateral sides of your feet for side-to-side sturdiness, while leaving a little bit of room in the toe box. This breathing room can allow you to wear your kicks comfortably with different thicknesses of socks, while also giving you the opportunity to splay your toes. Toe splaying can be an effective method to ground your stance during squats and deadlifts, giving you more contact with the ground for a rooted foundation for heavy lifts.

[Related: The Benefits of Toe Spacers (and Who Should Use Them)]

How to Choose the Best Cross-Training Shoes

Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, states, “Cross-training shoes are designed to be all-in-one shoes that can handle everything from CrossFit to HIIT to lifting weights and even running. Although they say a Jack of all trades is a master of none, a good pair of cross-training shoes is as close as you can get to a master of all.”

Below are the factors we recommend considering when looking for your next ideal pair of workout-ready kicks.

Durability

Durability is a massive consideration for cross-training shoes. From toe drags to rope climbs to box jumps, your shoes are going to take a beating. Rope climbs are notorious for shredding uppers and midsoles, but box jumps and other dynamic lateral movements can wear down the toe.

When looking for cross-training shoes, you’ll want to consider sneakers with a durable knit or mesh upper. These textiles have been proven to withstand regular wear and tear while also allowing for some sense of breathability. Synthetic overlays and thicker uppers can also help bolster your shoe’s durability, but be mindful that extra material across your foot can lead to more sweat build-up internally, which can result in hot spots and blisters.

Materials 

Your cross-trainer is constructed from multiple materials across the upper, midsole, and outsole. While each brand can have its own proprietary tech strewn across these components, it’s important to remember that your shoes should strike a balance between comfort, durability, and performance.

[Related: ​​4 Signs You Need a New Pair of Weightlifting Shoes]

Look for midsole foams that offer a nice sense of cushioning and responsiveness, along with a stable nature that can facilitate a grounded setup for lifts. For outsoles, hearty rubbers and specialty compounds like Vibram can also be worthwhile, as these can be resilient enough to maintain traction day in and day out without wearing through after just a few wears.

Fit

Naturally, your cross-training shoes should fit your feet, but there are more factors that go into this component than just your shoe size. Consider your actual footprint and whether you need a shoe with a wider toe box, or one with ample arch support to promote in-training comfort underfoot. 

Additionally, be sure to give your toes a little bit of wiggle room to help prevent hot spots while also allowing for toe splaying — a common technique used for creating a grounded stance for lifts like squats and deadlifts.

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Heel height is something that can dramatically influence your training, especially if you’re more into weightlifting. An elevated heel can help support mobility and give a stable base to rely on during training. A planted, stable foot is a must for athletes — especially when moving heavy weight — so a more elevated heel can (at times) help a lifter with their training. 

[Related: How to Find the Right Weightlifting Shoe Heel Height]

For cross-trainers, Capritto notes that most profiles can feature a heel-to-toe drop between 4 and 8 millimeters. This can be a worthwhile range to look for that can promote a slightly elevated heel for lifting scenarios without angling the foot too aggressively for compromised comfort. In addition, you can also opt for lower or zero-drop sneakers if you prefer a minimalist setup for optimal ground contact in each step.

Price

Naturally, your cross-training shoes of choice should always fit neatly into your budget. Thankfully, the market is pretty even-keeled, with most prices ranging between $100 and $150. Of course, you can find some silhouettes at lower and higher price tags, but this can be an ideal starting point for most. In the end, the right shoe for your training needs is the one that appeals to your personality and finances best.

Final Word

As Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, puts it, “You might think, instinctively, that your equipment like barbells, dumbbells, and weight plates are the most important things in your home gym. But I would argue that your shoes are more important than most things in your home gym, especially if you follow an exercise protocol that requires versatile shoes.” As such, having a good pair of cross-trainers in your gym bag can be the difference maker when it comes to hitting your fitness goals day in and day out.

When looking for a high-quality pair of workout shoes, you’ll want to focus on the durability at hand across the upper, midsole, and outsole. Also, your gym shoes should be a nice blend of comfort and stability, as you’ll want that secure, grounded sensation when it comes time to move some serious weight. Using this round-up as a guide, you can easily upgrade your shoe game for some boosted PRs in no time.

FAQs

References

1. Sun, X., Lam, W.-K., Zhang, X., Wang, J., & Fu, W. (2020). Systematic Review of the Role of Footwear Constructions in Running Biomechanics: Implications for Running-Related Injury and Performance. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 19(1), 20–37. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7039038/

The post 14 Best Cross-Training Shoes of 2024 (Personally Tested) appeared first on BarBend.

Like any specialized footwear, though, getting your picks right from the start is more beneficial than not. You’ll need to think about the raised heel and how much elevation is in the shoes themselves, as well as your sense of traction via the outsole, and (of course) your overall comfort. To help you pinpoint your magic weightlifting slipper, we’ve gotten hands-on with a number of quality kicks and consulted with our in-house experts to determine our favorite weightlifting shoes on the market today.

The 8 Best Weightlifting Shoes of 2024

• Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall: Nike Romaleos 4
• Most Stylish Weightlifting Shoes: NOBULL Leather Lifter
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Olympic Weightlifting: Reebok Legacy Lifter III
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet: TYR L-1 Lifter
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners: Nike Savaleos
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for Powerlifting: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer
• Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes
• Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit: Inov-8 Fastlift 360 

How We Tested and Chose the Best Weightlifting Shoes

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best weightlifting shoes, we got hands-on with 12 different silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

Heel Height and Elevation

The height of a weightlifting shoe’s heel can greatly influence the range of motion across your hip, knee, and ankle joints during barbell squats and other exercises. (2) As such, finding the ideal setup for your comfort and performance levels is key when selecting a pair of lifters for your gym bag. While some athletes may require the most support possible across the ankle, others may be able to get away with a lower setup provided it doesn’t compromise their in-lift comfort.

On average, you can expect weightlifting shoes to carry a heel height around 19 millimeters or greater, with many of the top-performing profiles in the category hovering around 20 millimeters. Of course, the presence of an elevated heel can be suitable for certain lifts and detrimental for others, so you should take into account how you plan to structure your training as well as your personal preferences when deciding between one pair of shoes over the next.

Lacing and Strapping

Your lacing system can influence how much lockdown you experience over the top of your foot, and when your workout calls for stabilizing or hoisting massive weights overhead, it can help to be secure from the ground up. The picks in this round-up include silhouettes boasting a variety of lacing structures, with some employing just a simple shoelace lattice and others adding a single- or dual-strap system for better lockdown.

Naturally, the more apparatuses at play in this area, the more secure you can feel in a given lift. However, the extra security can pose a problem in terms of unwanted pressure, which can lead to discomfort and even blistering. We did our best to include feedback on how each profile felt during trials, highlighting where a system proved beneficial and where straps or lacing structures were more overkill.

Type of Heel

Unlike some of the best running shoes on the market, you’ll want a sturdier heel that doesn’t showcase a cozy sense of compression when deciding between weightlifting shoes. This compression can actually be detrimental to your lifts, as you’ll be initially squishing through mounds of material before finding that desirable ground contact for upward motion or thrusts.

When it comes to high-quality weightlifting shoes, there are a handful of materials that can be employed for a rock-solid foundation. Below are some quick notes on some of these design elements and what you can expect from a sneaker showcasing these build qualities:

• EVA Heel: Lightweight, somewhat compressible or maneuverable, very durable
• TPU Heel: Lightweight, resistant to compression and abrasion, durable

• Stacked Leather Heel: Throwback look, platform feedback, somewhat compressible
• Wood Heel: Stable, old-school appearance, little to no compression, platform feedback

While some may think it’s profitable to opt for the heel design with the least amount of give, you need to remember that you need to actually wear these weightlifting shoes outside of the lifting platform itself. There’s no sense in wearing a wooden heel if the rest of your training session will be compromised from an uncomfortable underfoot, right? As such, we understand that every athlete can have a subjective take on which heel design is best, so we did our best to include options that cater to multiple tastes and wants in this guide.

Materials

Something to be aware of are the trade-offs that come with certain types of materials. Leather, for example, looks great, but does not breathe as well as fabrics such as textile or mesh. Conversely, using a ton of breathable material can make shoes nice and lightweight with great airflow, but may impact their durability and stability.

When it comes to heels and outsoles, weightlifting shoes tend to be built for stability and traction to help you stick to the platform. They’re meant to make you feel connected to the platform, so don’t expect much forgiveness or a squishy feeling from them.

[Related: The Ultimate Guide to Lifting Shoes]

Design

Design is something that is highly subjective and we try our best not to put too much emphasis on it, but sometimes there are shoes we can all agree just look good — and we’ll point that out. Whether you’re someone who cares about the look of your shoes or simply views them as tools meant to perform a job, the design of weightlifting shoes has come a long way and there are a lot of different looks and options to choose from now.

Best Weightlifting Shoes Overall: Nike Romaleos 4

Nike Romaleos 4

Nike Romaleos 4

The Nike Romaleos 4 are about as pure of a weightlifting shoe as you can get. They’re designed with stability and performance in mind with dual leather lockdown straps and a unique patterned rubber sole for a better platform feel and stability.

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For athletes wanting the best footwear to take their strength training to new heights, we think the fourth iteration of the Nike Romaleos lineup reign supreme. These sleek squat shoes feature a 20-millimeter heel height, wide outsole design, and rubber tread for a stable base that can upgrade your positioning for back squats and Olympic lifts. Additionally, a dual-strap midfoot lockdown system helps ensure that you’re, well, locked in without any fear of interior foot movement during catches or cleans.

These are my preferred shoes for leg day, as I really feel like how the higher heel allows me to move more efficiently through a squat. Plus, I prefer a heavier shoe for these movements, as it gives me a more grounded sense that my feet aren’t going anywhere on the platform before getting into a descent. I’d rate the overall design at 4 out of 5, though, because wearing these Romaleos 4s through an entire session can leave your steps feeling clunky and tired.

[Related: 6 Reasons You Should Invest In a Pair of Weightlifting Shoes]

From a style perspective, we scored these Nike Olympic weightlifting shoes at 5 out of 5. “This brand just knows how to make a good-looking shoe,” added our tester. “I also like the small easter eggs — like the word ‘Dominate’ embedded in the heel — that give the Romaleos 4s a more premium feel.”

The lockdown in these shoes is also noteworthy thanks to their reliance on both a traditional lacing system and two midfoot straps that cinch in alternate directions. This can help you achieve that secure fit without putting unwanted pressure across a single area. This is a definite plus, too, because of the upper’s more rigid design for better stability during lifts — you don’t want a portion of the upper digging into the top of your foot as you go for a PR snatch attempt.

Finally, while the Romaleos 4s run true to size, you should expect a tighter fit. I scored the fit at 3.5 out of 5, too, given the narrower toe box, which is intended to squeeze your feet into position with little side-to-side give. You do get used to it — you’re not wearing these kicks for every lifting session — but it is a change of pace, even from the brand’s more versatile cross-trainer, the Nike Metcon 9.

Read our full Nike Romaleos 4 Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Most Stylish Weightlifting Shoes: NOBULL Leather Lifter

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NOBULL Leather Lifter

NOBULL Leather Lifter

With a virtually all-leather makeup and approachable 18.5-millimeter heel height, these stylish weightlifting shoes from NOBULL can be the perfect addition to any gym bag in need of a style boost. While the leather construction does leave something to be desired in terms of breathability, they deliver a stable base that’s prime for heavy lifts.

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Sometimes, the best shoes for your lifting ensemble are also the most stylish — if you feel good, you lift good. NOBULL is a brand draped in good looks, most notably from the litany of hues and designs available in the brand’s Trainer stable of training footwear. While the Leather Lifters are only available in one colorway, we still think the aesthetics at play are more than enough to boost PRs (or, at least, your confidence when stepping to the podium).

The entire silhouette features premium-sourced leather across the upper and heel. Additionally, these NOBULL kicks have a leather midsole for better platform feedback, and a stacked leather heel that can offer a nice mix of stability and comfort.

[Related: NOBULL Trainer Review]

Having lifted in these before, I enjoyed how the leather broke in after multiple uses, giving them a unique, weathered look that had a vintage vibe unique to my footprint. You can think of them as a well-worn, timeless pair of dress shoes with an added zest of strength training. As such, I rated the style at 5 out of 5.

Performance-wise, these NOBULL Leather Lifters can also be plenty stable for your traditional back squats and Olympic lifts. I’ve also found no issues with the rubber outsole in terms of grip and traction, scoring it at 4 out of 5. While the tread pattern is more simplified than other liters I’ve tested, you can still achieve a well-grounded stance atop wooden platforms or synthetic home gym flooring.

Be mindful, though, that extended use can lead to some separation between the outsole and midsole, according to some customers. While I’ve yet to experience a similar fate, I can see where the two components could be susceptible to splitting. For this reason, we rated the NOBULL Leather Lifters at 3.75 out of 5 for durability.

Naturally, an all-leather training shoe won’t be as breathable as one constructed from mesh or nylon. “I found these to run incredibly hot, especially during summer lifts or extended sessions in the gym,” added our tester, a certified personal trainer. If you’re willing to sacrifice a little sweat for a boosted sense of style, though, these NOBULL kicks should definitely be on your radar.

Read our full NOBULL Lifters Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Olympic Weightlifting: Reebok Legacy Lifter III

Reebok Legacy Lifter III

Reebok Legacy Lifter III

Resembling a high-top sneaker you’d expect to see on the hardwood basketball courts of yesteryear, these Reebok lifters employ three lockdown systems for a premier fit for each lift. You get your standard shoelaces along with a singular midfoot strap, but the integrated Pump technology is also placed across the profile for a pneumatic sense of fine-tuned fitment.

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For athletes involved in Olympic weightlifting, a pure pair of Olympic weightlifting shoes are practically a must for your gym bag. With a heavy 22.12-ounce profile, lightweight yet durable 22-millimeter TPU heel, and a sturdy textile upper that can withstand the rigors of these explosive exercises, the Legacy Lifter IIIs from Reebok are our top pick for this specialized training discipline.

Reebok’s Legacy Lifter lineup has been a mainstay in Olympic weight rooms for years thanks to the brand’s attention to detail, but the third iteration has quickly won us over given how rock solid the underfoot is via the compression-resistant heel and tacky rubber outsole for improved grip. 

We rated the stability at 5 out of 5, too, given the multiple lockdown mechanisms over the top of the foot. You have your standard laces in addition to a single midfoot strap, along with Reebok’s Pump technology that can inflate the midfoot for a comfortable sense of pressure in key areas.

[Related: Reebok Legacy Lifters Review]

However, we wouldn’t rely on the Pump tech as a sole means of achieving that locked-in fit needed for heavy Olympic lifting. “It provides a little more security, but not exactly a true lockdown,” says our tester. “I feel like it’s more of a style point or branded gimmick. Thankfully, the strap and lacing are more than enough to achieve that perfect fit when I’m going for a heavy set.”

The durability of the Legacy Lifter IIIs also scored highly in testing at a perfect 5 out of 5. The textile upper proved to be plenty resilient when taking it through the wringer of our typical Olympic regimens. 

Additionally, I’ve owned my personal pair of Legacy Lifter IIIs and they look as good as the day I received them. I wouldn’t expect any blowout or unwanted compression from these shoes in the future, which we hope can provide peace of mind to those wary of the $220 price tag.

When ordering these Reebok lifters, you have five colorways to choose from — a slightly larger offering than other weightlifting shoes. While color choice is subjective, we do recommend ordering a half size up from what you’d typically wear in your normal footwear. Our tester noted that the sizing runs small, which can be a detriment when you’re already expecting a snug fit on the platform.

[Related: 4 Signs You Need a New Pair of Weightlifting Shoes]

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Wide Feet: TYR L-1 Lifter

TYR L-1 Lifter

TYR L-1 Lifter

Boasting an anatomical toe box design, the L-1 Lifters from TYR can be a beacon of hope for wide-footed athletes interested in Olympic weightlifting. A multi-patterned outsole tread and aggressive 21-millimeter heel height can also be fortuitous, giving athletes all the tools needed for stable, effective dynamic movements in training.

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Weightlifting shoes often feature a snug fit so as to help ensure you aren’t fighting for foot placement when trying to focus on a movement. However, while the lockdown is improved with this setup, it can limit the footwear’s approachability for wider-footed athletes. The TYR L-1 Lifters, on the other hand can be a solid option for such needs thanks to a unique anatomically designed toe box that offers enough room for added comfort while still promoting a stable underfoot experience.

I’ve trained in these L-1s before and appreciate the unique sensation across my toes. While I don’t have wide feet, I still enjoyed the extra space that allowed for effective toe splaying during heavy squats. Additionally, we rated the stability at 4 out of 5 given the inclusion of a dual-strap midfoot makeup allowing for that premier sense of lockdown.

[Related: How to Do the Back Squat: Learn Form, Variations, and Benefits]

In my experience, though, it’s best to get your fitment via the lacing system as much as possible. There can be some overhang along the straps that can potentially end up under your outsole when walking around the gym or walking out a loaded barbell.

The construction of this L-1 Lifter was also appealing thanks to its perforated faux leather profile. Not only did this thicker textile provide a heightened sense of rigidity, but it also proved to be plenty durable for extended use.

Additionally, we like how TYR included a lasered hole pattern across the toe box, which can help with breathability. Otherwise, these would be rather hot kicks that could leave you with sweat-soaked socks and potential blisters.

We rated the construction at 4 out of 5 given the TPU heel design. At 21 millimeters, it provided a good sense of heel elevation for better dorsiflexion and hinging through our squats and cleans. Plus, the 19.2-ounce shoe weight provided that grounded feeling you desire when stepping onto a platform, and the multiple tread patterns across the outsole gave each stance ample traction and grip.

While I could see the wider toe box interfering with narrow-footed athletes — there may be too much room for stability across dynamic lifts — this TYR L-1 is still a favorite silhouette of mine. 

[Related: Should Non-Olympic Weightlifters Wear Weightlifting Shoes?]

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners: Nike Savaleos

Nike Savaleos

Nike Savaleos

The Nike Savaleos bridge the gap between trainers and weightlifting shoes very well. They offer support and stability while still being flexible enough to support the rest of your workout. Nike made these shoes comfortable and functional for all your lifting needs. 

 

 

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We get it — weightlifting shoes aren’t your normal pair of shoes. The heightened heel, more snug lockdown, and emphasis on stability can make them a little more intimidating than your go-to pair of gym shoes. As such, it can be beneficial to ease into this footwear category with a design that’s a step above your regular cross-trainers yet isn’t as harsh of a change to your underfoot experience. The Savaleos from Nike, in our opinion, are the perfect starter pair for athletes thanks to a less aggressive heel height and a budget-friendly price point.

Unlike other weightlifting shoes that can typically feature a heel-to-toe drop in the realm of 20 millimeters, the Savaleos instead use a 15-millimeter TPU heel for improved ankle mobility. This can be a plus for beginner athletes as the jump is less intense from your normal kicks. 

“I think those wanting the most support for ankle flexion should opt for a higher heel,” according to our tester, a former Olympian. “But for novices, it’s a great introductory shoe.”

[Related: Best Weightlifting Shoes for Beginners]

In addition to the approachable heel height, we also rated the value of the Nike Savaleos at a perfect 5 out of 5. You can pick up a pair of these beginner-friendly lifters for roughly $125, whereas other Olympic footwear can typically cost you around $200 or more. 

The ergonomics are also a positive for the Nike Savaleos. Our tester rated the shoes at 4.5 out of 5 for the category thanks to their impressive range of motion and worthwhile lockdown across the lacing system and midfoot strap. While they were quick to note that a dual-strap system can provide more security, you can’t expect all the bells and whistles when the pair comes in below $150.

Lastly, our tester had no major qualms regarding stability with these Nike shoes, but did score the Savaleos at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. This slight demerit was largely due to the insole, which felt more responsive underfoot. As a result, our tester felt like they needed to push through the foam in order to achieve a desirably grounded stance.

Read our full Nike Savaleos Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for Powerlifting: TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainer

Sleek and minimalist, the TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers are the latest footwear offerings from the growing brand. Featuring easy-to-use Adjustable Stability Straps across the top of the foot, along with a wider anatomical toe box, these barefoot-style training shoes can be great for athletes wanting maximum ground contact for those heavy deadlift days or squat sessions.

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Powerlifters can also benefit from a specialized pair of gym shoes for their craft. However, while the raised heel can be beneficial for squats, the other two major lifts — the bench press and deadlift — aren’t as supported with this design. Plus, swapping shoes in between lifts can be a hassle on meet days. The TYR DZ-1 DropZero Barefoot Trainers, though, showcased a flexible, barefoot profile that can be great for achieving the desired footing for heavy pulls and presses while still being comfortable enough for squat PRs.

These DZ-1s are my favorite training sneakers as of late, most notably through the TYRTac outsole that provides excellent traction on the platform. I also felt like I could lock my feet in for better presses, and the flexibility is a major plus in finding that optimal ankle angle on a bench. Even during squats, I didn’t feel any unwanted movement in my feet when pushing through the hole. Overall, I rated the stability at 4.5 out of 5.

I also liked how breathable the mesh upper is, especially when wearing these shoes for extended periods. There’s no need to swap them out for other dedicated cross-trainers (unless that’s your preference), making them an efficient addition to your gym bag, too. Naturally, though, Olympic lifters may still desire that raised heel for snatches and clean and jerks, so I conservatively scored the versatility at 3.75 out of 5.

[Related: Barefoot Strength Training — Can Lifting Without Shoes Help You Make More Gains?]

In terms of sizing, I recommend opting for a half-size smaller than your typical footwear. This can help you achieve a more snug yet efficient fit that can be ideal when trying to push your PRs to new heights. You don’t want a lot of slop or space, especially when dealing with a shoe profile as flexible as this one.

Finally, the dual-strap system is the lone lockdown mechanism across this TYR profile. While other weightlifting shoes can offer similar structures with the addition of a lacing system, I don’t feel it hinders the DZ-1s. After all, a lacing system would only add to the overall weight, and thus, impact the versatility of these impressive new additions to the training footwear landscape.

[Related: Flat Vs. Heeled Lifting Shoes for Squatting: Choosing What’s Best For You]

Best Budget Weightlifting Shoes: Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes

Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe

Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe

A wider built weightlifting shoe that offers double mid-foot straps and a solid .75" plastic heel, the Do-Win weightlifting shoe has a classic look and an incredibly sturdy feel. It's specifically designed to cater to athletes with wide feet. The single-sole construction adds to the feeling of support. It's recommended purchases order ½ size under their normal running shoe size.

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When it comes to in-gym footwear, you often get what you pay for. However, a few wallet-friendly profiles are always likely to sneak through, including these weightlifting shoes from Do-Win. Available via Rogue Fitness for $105, they come in at nearly half the cost of other weightlifting shoes. Despite this more affordable makeup, these Do-Wins don’t skimp when it comes to underfoot performance.

In testing, we rated the stability at 4 out of 5 and appreciated the middle-tier heel height of 19.05 millimeters. While somewhat lower than the 20-millimeter average, it’s still a worthwhile height for improved ankle mobility. “I also liked the grip from the outsole,” noted our tester, a certified personal trainer. “I didn’t experience any slipping or sliding when taking my stance atop an Olympic platform.”

[Related: The 12 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

That said, we did feel as if the tread showed premature signs of wear, so we wouldn’t be surprised if replacement orders come sooner rather than later. We rated the durability at 3 out of 5 because of this foreseeable breakdown. 

For less than $110, though, we’re willing to make the sacrifice of a new pair sooner rather than later — you’re still within the realm of what you can expect to pay for a single pair of weightlifting shoes from a different brand.

Additionally, the synthetic leather and nylon mesh upper provide a good blend of rigidity and breathability, allowing you to power through your workouts without any unwanted perspiration. Plus, the dual-strap midfoot and traditional lacing can be great for achieving that locked-in aesthetic. 

We do wish, however, that the straps cinched in alternating directions. This would allow for increased pressure and snugness across both the lateral and medial side of the foot, as opposed to just the outer (lateral) area.

Finally, while some athletes looking for the most ankle mobility possible may want to look for a lifter with a greater heel height, these can still be a good option for most novice and intermediate individuals. Additionally, the Do-Win Weightlifting Shoes can be an excellent accessory for those less prone to performing Olympic lifts within their regimens. Think of them as a convenient yet effective safety net, all for a price that’s plenty approachable.

Read our full Do-Win Weightlifting Shoe Review.

Best Weightlifting Shoes for CrossFit: Inov-8 Fastlift 360

Inov-8 Fastlift 360

Inov-8 Fastlift 360

The Inov-8 Fastlift 360s may be some of the lightest weightlifting shoes at the market, weighing in at roughly 12.1 ounces. But that doesn’t stop these impressive kicks from moving some heavy weights. The ripstop upper provides a great sense of lockdown in tandem with the standard lacing and single-strap midfoot, and the narrower silhouette also lends itself to a compact frame and foot placement with little room for slop and movement as you go for a new PR.

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While CrossFit athletes have their own shoes for their given discipline, there are still certain exercises and intervals that can benefit from the added heel height and stability that traditional CrossFit shoes can’t deliver. However, you’re likely to lose a few seconds on your WOD if your kicks begin to weigh you down from circuit to circuit. With a lightweight 12.07-ounce frame, the Fastlift 360s from Inov-8 can be the perfect companion for these needs, providing a heightened sense of stability without weighing down your overall wardrobe.

[Related: Inov-8 Releases F-Lite G 300, the “Toughest Training Shoe to Date”]

Admittedly, I’ve had minimal experience with these weightlifting shoes from the Britain-based brand, but I do appreciate the stability underfoot for a variety of lifts. The flat outsole can be great for creating that grounded sensation, and the lightweight build quality can be prime for executing quick foot transfers as you go for a clean and jerk.

However, I’ve found the heel to be somewhat narrow for my liking, and the POWER TRUSS technology does give the component more of a pillared structure overall that can require some added balance. As such, I rated the stability at 4 out of 5 for these lifters.

The Fastlift 360s don’t lack a sense of durability, however. I scored the construction at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to the ripstop upper that’s more than capable of tackling your most intense intervals. Additionally, I’ve yet to notice any separation across the outsole, which is great for maintaining an optimal sense of traction when hurriedly rushing into a snatch or weightlifting-oriented circuit.

However, I have noticed that the hook-and-loop system featured across the midfoot strap is finer than other weightlifting shoes I’ve tried. This can potentially lead to some clogged Velcro over time, especially if you regularly train in an environment with ample amounts of dust, chalk, or (in my case) dog hair. It may be best to try and comb through the hook-and-loop system every now and again to ensure your lockdown remains consistent across multiple wears.

Lastly, the Inov-8 Fastlift 360s feature a narrow silhouette that practically constricts your foot into position. While this can be excellent for stability’s sake, it could be a detriment for wider-footed athletes.

[Related: The Best CrossFit Workouts for Beginners to Build Strength and Mental Toughness]

Benefits of Weightlifting Shoes

According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, weightlifting shoes can be beneficial for a number of athletes, especially those focusing on Olympic lifts and the back squat within their given fitness regimens. From improved ankle dorsiflexion, better underfoot stability, and more, below are just a few of our favorite benefits associated with this specialized footwear category.

More Comfortable Back Squat

While some may find the raised heel height to be an awkward sensation at first, this design element is intended to be a perk when it comes to your biomechanics, particularly when it comes to the back squat. 

[Related: 12 Science-Backed Benefits of Squats You Should Know About]

Studies suggest that training in weightlifting shoes can promote a wider range of ankle dorsiflexion, as well as a more upright torso positioning throughout this foundational strength-training movement. (3)(4) Having greater ankle mobility throughout your squat can be beneficial when trying to avoid excessive forward lean, which, in turn, can help alleviate unwanted stress across your lower back.

Additionally, a more upright torso can be great for squats, as this positioning can indicate better control of the weight itself throughout movement. Think about it, if you’re off-kilter either forward or backward, you’re likely to feel less in-control of the barbell, resulting in a compromised range of motion as well as potential setups for injury. 

While it may not seem like a raised heel height can provide this much support in a singular lift, the studies have proven otherwise (and why you’ll rarely see Olympic lifters coming to the podium in anything but true lifting shoes).

Improved Stability

The stability of your footwear can be vital when it comes to moving heavy weights in a dynamic fashion like you’d experience in Olympic exercises like the snatch and clean and jerk. When hoisting the load into a catch position or overhead, your foundation should be rock solid with little room for foot movement within your shoes themselves. 

Given their tighter design, as well as add-ons including midfoot straps and traditional lacing systems, weightlifting shoes can be great for achieving that desirable grounded setup each time you step to the barbell.

[Related: 15 Isometric Exercises for More Core Strength and Full-Body Stability]

Another way that weightlifting shoes can improve your in-training stability is through their wider outsole constructions and tacky tread patterns. While the outsoles — often composed of a rubber component — can be excellent in giving you the traction necessary for PR-level lifts, the wider silhouettes can also bolster your sturdiness by giving you a larger platform to land on and brace against. 

To provide a metaphor: Which tree do you think is more stable? The thin and slender sapling, or the wide-trunked evergreen?

How Much Do Weightlifting Shoes Cost?

Given their more specialized makeup, you can expect to pay a little more for weightlifting shoes than you would your go-to cross-trainers. While the average gym shoe can run athletes roughly $150, the average weightlifting shoe can carry a price tag equivalent to roughly $200 or even more. Below you’ll find a breakdown of all the weightlifting shoes included in this guide, as well as their respective costs.

How to Choose the Best Weightlifting Shoes

When making any purchase, especially a larger one like a new pair of weightlifting shoes, it’s a good idea to consider the options and take inventory of what you’d like to get out of your new equipment. Just like other types of shoes, there are a lot of options on the market and a lot of factors to think about when choosing your next or first pair of weightlifting shoes. Below are some factors we recommend pondering over before adding a high-quality pair of training kicks to your cart.

Heel Height

Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, states, “A good place to start is the heel-to-toe drop. The higher the drop, the more assistance the shoes will provide in terms of ankle dorsiflexion, squat depth, and spinal positioning throughout the lift.” 

Additionally, Capritto notes that weightlifting shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop may be less helpful in heavy dynamic lifts, but can still prove their worth in more versatile workout regimens like CrossFit or general strength training.

In the end, however, you should consider your personal preference and whether a high heel will be a beneficial support system for your lifting form, or a nagging irritant that feels awkward underfoot. Additionally, you can always ease into this experience by initially opting for a lower-heeled design and working your way up to the 20-millimeter profiles often associated with the upper echelon of this footwear category.

[Related: Converse Chuck Taylor Review]

Lockdown Mechanism

Weightlifting shoes should be as stable as possible, and that cannot be accomplished without a proper lockdown sensation over the top of the foot. On average, you can expect a weightlifting shoe to feature a typical shoelace structure, although more and more profiles are also including a hook-and-loop midfoot strap for better security. 

Some can even boast multiple straps along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, helping ensure a compact, snug lockdown with little room for interior movement.

While we’ll always recommend more lockdown systems over less, designs can become convoluted at times, leading to unwanted pressure points that can compromise the overall comfort of the lifting shoe. Think about your personal comfort preferences and desired lockdown aesthetic.

[Related: Pay Attention to Your Foot and Ankle Mobility: Your Lifts Will Thank You For It]

Toe Box Design

To accentuate this sense of stability and lockdown, you’ll often find that weightlifting shoes feature a narrower interior than other training sneakers. This is to ensure that there’s as little room as possible for your foot to move as you work through dynamic movements like the snatch and clean and jerk. 

However, while there are perks to this tighter design, it can be perceived as uncomfortable for some, especially those with wider feet. Think about the shape of your feet and look for a weightlifting shoe that can accommodate your personal footprint best.

Upper Construction

Your weightlifting shoe’s upper can greatly influence your in-gym experience. If it’s too flexible, you can run the risk of shifting your foot placement within the shoe with each aggressive movement. If it’s too rigid, you may be setting yourself up for hot spots and a lack of breathability. The best weightlifting shoes bring together both worlds for a fitment that’s stable, comfortable, durable, and (above all else) looks damn good in a gym setting.

Final Word

While these weightlifting shoes each have their strengths and weaknesses, one key thing to remember when buying any pair of shoes is your overall comfort. We can talk about the heel height, outsole tread pattern, and all the other available features, but if your feet hurt when you wear them, then they aren’t the right shoe for you — and you probably won’t be wearing them much.

It’s worth thinking about your sport, body, and budget before buying a pair of high-quality lifting shoes. Chat to your friends if they have lifting shoes, and try to buy from a retailer that has a good return policy so you don’t have to worry about sending them back for a different size or model. Once you have that perfect pair, it’s time to let the PRs roll.

FAQs

References

1. Legg, H. S., Glaister, M., Cleather, D. J., & Goodwin, J. E. (2016). The effect of weightlifting shoes on the kinetics and kinematics of the back squat. Journal of Sports Sciences, 35(5), 508–515. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27096286/
2. Lu, Z., Li, X., Xuan, R., Song, Y., Bíró, I., Liang, M., & Gu, Y. (2022). Effect of heel lift insoles on lower extremity muscle activation and joint work during barbell squats. Bioengineering, 9(7), 301. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9312299/
3. Sato, K., Fortenbaugh, D., & Hydock, D. S. (2012). Kinematic changes using weightlifting shoes on barbell back squat. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 26(1), 28–33. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22201687/
4. Lee, S.-P., Gillis, C. B., Ibarra, J. J., Oldroyd, D. F., & Zane, R. S. (2019). Heel-raised foot posture does not affect trunk and lower extremity biomechanics during a barbell back squat in recreational weight lifters. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 33(3), 606–614. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30789547/ 

The post The Best Weightlifting Shoes in 2024, As Tested by Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

These devices can track steps, heart rate, sleep quality, and/or heart rate variability. Some can receive calls, send texts, and stream music. That said, not all fitness trackers are made equal. Some are designed with workouts in mind, while others are a bit more practical. Below, we walk you through our list of the best fitness trackers on the market today.

Best Fitness Trackers

• Best Fitness Tracker Overall: WHOOP Strap 3.0
• Best Fitbit Fitness Tracker: Fitbit Charge 4
• Best Fitness Tracker for Any Workout: Garmin Vivoactive 3
• Best Smartwatch Fitness Tracker: Apple Watch Series 6
• Best Budget Fitness Tracker: Fitbit Charge 3

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. None of these fitness trackers are meant to diagnose or monitor any disease or condition. If you have or feel as though you may have any condition — such as a heart problem — please seek out a medical professional.

Best Fitness Tracker Overall

The best fitness tracker is the one that offers up not just a slew of complete data, but in a digestible way that lets the user understand their metrics. This one even has an app and behavior journal to track all aspects of wellness.

WHOOP Strap 3.0

WHOOP grades how strenuous your workout was, your workout preparedness, and your sleep quality. There’s also the new WHOOP Live, which allows the user to embed their real-time workout metrics onto videos and to share and save. With this tracker, you can chart just about all areas of wellness like sleep, stress, and even caffeine intake making this much more than simply a workout tracker.

WHOOP Strap 3.0

WHOOP Strap 3.0

The WHOOP Strap 3.0 is the perfect tracker for the active individual that loves analyzing daily performance and recovery metrics. Use code "BarBend" at checkout to save $30.00!

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As a bonus: WHOOP offers five-day battery life and the option to build teams and compete with other members of the WHOOP community. What’s not to like? Well, the $30 per month membership fee can add up, which some people may not like. If you prefer to pay the membership fee yearly or biennially then the price can be as low as about $16 per month.

Who Should Buy WHOOP Strap 3.0

• Extremely active people who want access to in-depth health metrics.
• People who may need a reminder to take it easy (or to turn it up a notch).
• Restless sleepers who may benefit from WHOOP’s sleep coaching.

Who Shouldn’t Buy WHOOP Strap 3.0

• Folks who don’t want to pay a monthly membership fee.
• People who want more than fitness metrics from their tracker.

WHOOP is a step forward in the fitness tracker industry and is reflective of the shift from simply working out to thinking of a more all-encompassing view of wellness. If you want to track many areas of your lifestyle habits then this is the wearable for you.

Best Fitbit Fitness Tracker

One of the OGs of fitness trackers, Fitbit is known for producing an array of quality, useful products. Their best tracker is also one of their most utilitarian with more features than ever before.

Fitbit Charge 4

The Charge 4 has a bit of something for everybody. This tracker can lead you through guided breathing sessions, set real-time paces and map your runs, track your sleep, and, for women, track menstrual cycles. It also has more general features, such as the ability to download apps, make payments, and stream music.

Best Fitbit Fitness Tracker

Fitbit Charge 4

Fitbit Charge 4

The Fitbit Charge 4 is great for those who want in-depth fitness and workout metrics. It offers sleep tracking, running routes and pacing, guided breathing sessions, and the ability to stream music.

Shop Fitbit

The utility that this device provides is far above and beyond that of a simple step or workout tracker and more akin to a full-fledged smartwatch at a fraction of the price of major competitors. It also looks sleek and doesn’t read like a fitness tracker at first glance, so you can wear it just as comfortably at the gym as at an upscale function.

Who Should Buy Fitbit Charge 4

• Fitness fanatics who want sleep and other metrics, but also with more in-depth cardio and running functions.
• People who also want breathing and stress management guidance from their tracker.
• Those who want a fitness tracker with smartwatch-like functionality will appreciate the features in this device.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Fitbit Charge 4

• People who don’t necessarily need or want in-depth running metrics.
• Athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want more of a pure fitness tracker.

Fitbit has outdone themselves yet again with the Charge 4. The amount of features that have been put in this device while still keeping the cost affordable is sure to make this a shoo-in for your favorite fitness tracker out there.

Best Fitness Tracker for Any Workout

Whether you want to try bodybuilding, increase your one-rep max, or just count your macros and lose a little weight — you want a wearable that can track all of your efforts. 

Garmin Vivoactive 3

What makes Garmin’s smartwatch stand out is that it comes with 15 pre-downloaded sports apps, so you can track the pacing, distance, and location of your activity of choice. You can also track your Vo2 max, stress levels, and calorie burn.

Best Fitness Tracker for Any Workout

Garmin Vivoactive 3

Garmin Vivoactive 3

This tracker comes with over a dozen different activities programmed into it, and you can even upload your own custom workouts.

Shop Amazon

This tracker also comes with the standard accouterments of a smartwatch — apps, contactless pay, customizable watch faces, and it’s waterproof for swimming. The downsides are the battery life is less than other models — 13 hours when using the GPS — and you can’t stream music.

Who Should Buy Garmin Vivoactive 3

• People who like to stay active through multiple sports.
• Those want the options to access apps and pay through their watch.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Garmin Vivoactive 3

• People who want to stream music on their fitness tracker.
• Folka who want longer battery life.

Whether you’re trying to track bodybuilding workouts, map your runs, or chart your daily steps the Garmin Vivoactive 3 is a solid choice with over a dozen pre-downloaded sports apps. It can also track key metrics like stress levels, calories, and VO2 max — making it ideal for athletes.

Best Smartwatch Fitness Tracker

Smartwatches, generally, offer far more functionality compared to a general fitness tracker. Sometimes, this can be at the cost of worthwhile fitness information, but we found a well-rounded smartwatch worth your money.

Apple Watch Series 6

Apple revolutionized the computer, the phone, and now the smartwatch. The health functions alone are tremendous. The sleek Apple Watch Series 6 can take an ECG (electrocardiogram), measure your blood oxygen levels, help you establish a better bedtime routine, and track basic workout metrics.

Best Smartwatch Fitness Tracker

Apple Watch Series 6

Apple Watch Series 6

Advanced health metrics — such as ECGs and blood oxygen level — paired with the usual Apple apps (maps, Apple Pay, and  Siri), make this smartwatch one of the most complete devices on the market. 

Shop Apple

With those functions also come the typical array of Apple apps — maps, texts, Siri, and Apple Pay. Of course, all of this comes at a hefty cost of $500. It is also designed and optimized to work with Apple products like iPhones, so if you’re an Android user, you may not have the best possible experience with this device.

Who Should Buy Apple Watch Series 6

• People who want new health features such as access to an ECG or their blood oxygen levels.
• Apple fans who are familiar and happy with the brand’s current host of essential apps (maps, Apple Pay, text, Siri). 
• Folks who want a stylish watch. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Apple Watch Series 6

• Penny pinchers, as this watch is $500. 
• People who want more robust workout-specific applications and metrics such as recovery and HRV.
• Anyone who doesn’t use iPhones for their smartphones.

If you’re an iPhone user and looking for a fitness tracker, you can’t go wrong with an Apple Watch. The digital infrastructure that Apple has developed to support wellness tracking for their watch is vast with a workout on-demand streaming service, tracking for tons of variables, and intuitive use.

Best Budget Fitness Tracker

A good fitness tracker doesn’t need to be an expensive one. Hone in on your needs, and look for a device that meets them — it won’t be the fanciest piece of tech, but it gets the job done.

Fitbit Charge 3

For just a little more than $100, the Charge 3 tracks your calories burned, resting heart rate, and has a battery life of seven days. It’s waterproof, and you can receive calls, texts, and weather updates on it (though the screen is narrow and small).

Best Budget Fitness Tracker

Fitbit Charge 3

Fitbit Charge 3

For the money, you won't do much better than the Charge 3. This device tracks the essentials — calories burned, your resting heart rate, and it can hold a charge for seven days. 

Shop Amazon

While this is a great device for the money, you will miss out on in-depth metrics, and actionable advice (which Apple and WHOOP both provide). Also, this tracker is pretty cheap compared to the others making it a great choice if you’re looking to dip your toes in the fitness tracker water without too much commitment.

Who Should Buy Fitbit Charge 3

• People on a budget.
• Those who require very basic fitness and health info. 
• Anyone looking for a waterproof fitness tracker will find it here.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Fitbit Charge 3

• Folks who want more apps and metrics from their fitness tracker.
• People who care to own a more aesthetically pleasing watch.
• People who want to text and make calls on the device.

If you’re unsure whether you’re going to be a fan of using a fitness tracker or have the ability to stay diligent with charging and wearing it, then this cost-effective model is likely the right choice. It allows you to test the waters without shelling out a mountain of cash only to find that it’s not for you. The Charge 3 is a solid tracker in its own right too for those on a budget.

Benefits of Fitness Trackers

There are many potential benefits of fitness trackers, but those are dependent on what you’re using them for. Many people use fitness trackers for simple tracking tasks like step counting, heart rate monitoring, and more. Others prefer more detailed tasks, which higher-end trackers can perform — like route tracking for runs, workout tracking, and even acting as an extension of your smartphone. Fitness trackers can be useful in ensuring you achieve your step goals each day and maintain your target heart rate when working out.

How We Chose the Best Fitness Trackers

Fitness bands are inherently personal devices. They can track individual movements, measure calories burned, record heart rates, and monitor sleep patterns. They’re also worn around one’s wrist all day, every day. As a result, you want a device that looks as good as it performs, and that can keep up with your activity level. Here’s what we considered when cultivating the picks above.

Style

Fitness trackers sit on your wrist 24/7. They’re no longer novelty items worn by the wealthy or fitness-crazed. Like a traditional watch, these bands are a statement piece that will be seen by the people you meet for dates, for job interviews, and fellow gymgoers who watch you rep out pull-ups. For that reason alone, the style and design of each fitness tracker may be one of the key determining factors for many users.

The devices themselves typically have a small “face” and a standard band. The faces of these devices can have different visual screen options, but the main aspect of the tracker that will stand out is the band.  The more prominent brands have loads of options, from leather to woven and even metal bands. This is where customers can find a way to make their fitness bands match their aesthetic.

App compatibility

The functionality of these fitness trackers is mostly determined by the different applications that they are compatible with. Some manufacturers also design proprietary apps that track, graph, and map fitness data — such as step counts, calories burned over time, and routes of favorite running paths. In other words, apps enhance your fitness tracker experience.

Other apps include streamed workouts, such as Apple’s new Fitness+, and communities, like the one offered by WHOOP, where users can challenge and motivate friends while trying to climb to the top of individual leaderboards. There are also fitness trackers that aren’t beholden to one app and can be synced to several different options. If you already have favorite fitness or sleep tracking apps, make sure they are compatible with any potential purchase.

Cost

Depending on the brand, fitness trackers can cost anywhere from around $100 up to half a grand. Those who want the basics can safely opt for the more affordable options, as these have functionality that should satisfy most users. The more expensive devices possess extra features such as more robust metrics, an extensive selection of apps, and the ability to text, call, and make contactless payments.

Durability

To indeed be considered a dependable fitness tracker, the device will need to withstand everyday use. If it fails to do so, it will be losing critical data that the athlete (casual or professional) may help track specific fitness goals.

You want a tracker that is waterproof or, at the very least, water-resistant. This way, you can use it while swimming or running in the rain. And if you forget to remove your tracker before taking a shower, it’s not an issue. Another critical aspect of durability is the device’s battery life. You don’t want to charge your tracker every day, as you may forget and then neglect your device overall.

How Much Do Fitness Trackers Cost?

Fitness trackers have a reputation for being either extremely cheap and breaking easily or exorbitantly expensive — preventing many people from considering them. They’ve come a long way, and you can now purchase very high-quality and reliable devices for rather affordable prices, though more comprehensive trackers still cost more.

You can pick up fitness trackers for pretty cheap, but some of the more inexpensive ones may require a monthly subscription — so they’re cheaper up front but end up costing more over time. You can pick up a fitness tracker for as little as about $30 with subscriptions costing anywhere from $15 to $30 per month. On the higher end, prices can go up to around $250 or even $360 for more intricate and multi-faceted ones.

What to Consider Before Buying Fitness Trackers

Not sure which fitness tracker is right for you? Here are some questions to ask yourself that may help guide your purchase.

What type of exercise do you do? 

If you are a swimmer, then obviously, there needs to be some level of water resistance to your fitness tracker — this also applies to those who run, rain or shine, and forgetful folks who may take a shower with their band on.

Or, if you’re a lifter who is constantly grinding through tough training splits, make sure the fitness tracker and the corresponding app can track that specific type of exercise. Certain activities like golf and weightlifting are noticeably absent from some fitness trackers’ capabilities though that is changing.

Which metrics are most important to you? 

Some customers may be shopping for a fitness tracker to monitor their heart rate while working out. Others may want an in-depth review of their sleep patterns, workout performance, and recovery ability. But remember, the more data analyzing tools and social compatibility desired, the more expensive the fitness tracker will be.

Are you comfortable with watches? 

You’re going to be wearing this device a lot, like probably all of the time. That said, you need to assess if you’re more comfortable with a smartwatch, which is generally a bit snugger, or a fitness tracker, which have softer, silicone bands. It’s a small detail, but one that will determine how often you use your tracker.

Final Word

These trackers have evolved over time from what was once an expensive and obscure novelty item to commonplace. They’re now as common in the gym as they are in professional settings as fitness culture has become more pervasive. The market has become much more competitive and trackers are now rather affordable for nearly anyone who wants to add them to their wellness routine.

Fitness trackers are a great way to potentially keep yourself on track with steps, sleep, and more with built-in sensors. Not only can you track the simple things but more complex data like heart rate and some can access the GPS data of the device it’s connected to for run mapping. Certain devices have the ability to download apps, stream music, and more capabilities that are more akin to full-fledged smartwatches.

FAQs

The post The Best Fitness Trackers For Heart Rate, Sleep Quality, and More appeared first on BarBend.

Commonly used during long or heavy training sessions, athletes utilize chalk to enhance their grip, whether they’re lifting a barbell or gripping gymnastic rings or kettlebells. Chalk also absorbs sweat and prevents slippage, which may help you avoid an injury or hand tear. 

One issue with chalk though is that it can be very messy, and not every gym allows it. We reviewed the best lifting chalks on the market (including those that aren’t as messy), and picked out a few of our favorites for you to consider for yourself. 

Best Lifting Chalk

• Best Lifting Chalk Overall: Rogue Gym Chalk
• Best Lifting Chalk for Sustained Grip: Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk
• Best Lifting Chalk In Bulk: Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket
• Best Liquid Lifting Chalk: Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk
• Best Lifting Chalk In Bar Form: Rogue Gym Chalk
• Best Lifting Chalk On the Go: Primo Chalk Ball
• Best Lifting Chalk for Kettlebells: VIKN Performance Chalk

Best Lifting Chalk Overall

This chalk is made of the same formula rock climbing chalk is made from — you know it’s going to be reliable if those who are in the habit of hanging off rocks trust it with their life. 

Rogue Gym Chalk

Rogue Gym Chalk is made of a magnesium carbonate formula, which absorbs moisture without dissolving or turning into hand cake. With more contact on the bar, you’re able to have a firm, safe grip through any and all heavy lifts. This reliable chalk comes in eight blocks of chalk at 2 ounces each, which should be able to last individual users months of daily usage. If you’re running a group fitness facility, you can also order up to five packs at once for 40 total blocks of chalk.

Who Should Buy Rogue Gym Chalk

• Lifters looking for a cost-effective lifting chalk. 
• Anyone who wants a chalk that absorbs moisture and keeps your hands firmly in place during heavy lifts. 
• Group fitness facility owners who need to order chalk in bulk. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Gym Chalk

• Those who prefer liquid lifting chalk that doesn’t make as much of a mess.
• Folks who don’t want their chalk coming in smaller blocks and prefer a large tub for easy distribution. 

The Rogue Gym Chalk is absorbent and won’t create a cakey film on your hands. It’s also great for anyone ordering in bulk and definitely won’t break the bank. 

Best Lifting Chalk for Sustained Grip

Few things are more inconvenient than having to stop your workout to keep reapplying lifting chalk. This solution ensures your grip remains strong throughout your entire lifting session. 

Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

Made of laboratory grade magnesium carbonate and two bonding agents, this liquid lifting chalk will sustain your grip throughout your entire lifting session without the need for reapplication. It comes in 8-ounce bottles (which contain over 200 applications), or mini 2-ounce bottles (which contain over 50 applications). It’s simple to use as well — just make sure your hands are clean and dry, squirt a small amount onto your palm, and once you rub your hands, you’ll feel the chalky residue ready to work. Aside from its long-lasting properties, this chalk is also far less messy than powder chalk since it’s all contained in a bottle until it hits your palms.

Who Should Buy Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

• Anyone who needs a long-lasting liquid to assist their lifts throughout their entire session.
• Athletes who prefer a liquid chalk that isn’t as messy as powder.
• Folks who want something they can easily grab on the go.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

• Those who prefer powder chalk.

This liquid chalk is easy to apply and its magnesium carbonate formula allows for a sustained grip throughout your entire lift — just make sure your hands are clean and dry before applying for optimal use. 

Best Lifting Chalk In Bulk

This bucket of lifting chalk delivers in both size and antibacterial features that can last an individual many months, or benefit group fitness facilities. 

Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket

Sold in a one-pound bucket, this pick provides a substantial amount of lifting chalk, making it a great choice for group workouts, or individuals who don’t want to have to replenish their stash often. Its magnesium carbonate is sustainably sourced and is combined with not only five essential oils, but also Epsom salt, which helps Primo Chalk act as a natural antibacterial. The formula conditions hands and better prevents skin from tearing, but since it’s a loose powder, it can be quite messy — especially in group settings where multiple people are using it each day. 

Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket

Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket

With a mix of magnesium carbonate, Epsom salt, and essential oils, Primo Chalk not only delivers a substantial size, but also a valuable option for gyms and gym-goers.

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Who Should Buy The Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket

• Group trainers and gym owners who need to buy their chalk in bulk. 
• Anyone who wants conditioning and antibacterial properties in their chalk as well.
• Individuals who want their lifting chalk purchase to last a long time.

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Primo Chalk 1 LB Bucket

• Athletes on-the-go who need a more compact option.
• Those looking for chalk that is just magnesium carbonate and unscented — the essential oils create a noticeable floral scent.
• Customers looking for a chalk at a lower price point.

Primo Chalk might be a little on the more expensive side, but it’s a great investment given its size and antibacterial features that are beneficial for group activities.

Best Liquid Lifting Chalk

Liquid lifting chalk is great for athletes who are transporting their chalk to and from the gym. It’s also ideal if you’re trying to avoid a big powder mess. This pick does not disappoint when it comes to either of these qualities. 

Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk is made of laboratory grade magnesium carbonate and two bonding agents that can keep your grip solid throughout any lifting session. You can buy it in 8-ounce bottles (with over 200 applications each), or 2-ounce bottles (with over 50 applications each). Once your hands are clean and dry, all you need to do is squirt a small amount into your palms, and the formula will immediately turn chalky as it makes contact with the air. Liquid chalk is way less messy than powder chalk, as well, so you can rest assured you won’t be leaving a powder trail everywhere you go. 

Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

This liquid chalk is made from laboratory grade magnesium carbonate and two bonding agents to sustain your grip throughout your entire lifting session, no need to reapply. Plus, liquid chalk is much less messy than powder chalk. 

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Who Should Buy Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

• Athletes who prefer a liquid chalk to a powder chalk.
• Customers who don’t want to have a mess to clean up after their lift. 
• Folks who are on-the-go and need something they can easily transport. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Spider Chalk Lifting Chalk

• Anyone who prefers a powder chalk to a liquid chalk. 
• Customers who want something they can buy in bulk for a large fitness facility. 

Spider Chalk Liquid Chalk is a great option for anyone who needs to throw their chalk in a gym bag to take on the road with them, or people who just want to keep their gym space clean of powder residue. 

Best Lifting Chalk In Bar Form

Bar chalk is one of the most basic forms of lifting chalk — it can be a little messy but it’s reliable and gets the job done. This particular pick is simple and great for bulk buyers, as well. 

Rogue Gym Chalk

Rogue Gym Chalk is made out of magnesium carbonate, which is great at absorbing moisture without leaving a cakey residue on your hands. You can buy this chalk in packs of eight 2-ounce blocks, each of which will last users months. You can even buy up to five packs if you want to buy in bulk, which would get you a total of 40 bars — easily enough for building out a group facility. Bar chalk may get a little messy, but it’s as reliable as they come.

Rogue Gym Chalk

Rogue Gym Chalk

This chalk is made of a magnesium carbonate formula that absorbs moisture, and ensures you have a firm, safe grip throughout all your heavy lifts.

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Who Should Buy Rogue Gym Chalk

• Gym owners who need to buy their product in bulk. 
• Anyone who prefers powder chalk to liquid chalk. 
• Athletes who want a formula that absorbs well and doesn’t cake on your hands. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Gym Chalk

• Customers who are trying to avoid leaving a powdery mess behind after their lifting sessions. 

While messy, the Rogue Gym Chalk bars are reliable, fast-absorbing, and easy to buy in bulk — if you’re okay with having a sheen of powder across your gym, these are one of the best chalk buys out there. 

Best Lifting Chalk On the Go

The advantage of chalk balls is that they keep the powder contained, don’t leave behind dust clouds, are great for bringing on the go, and prevent spillage. This pick smells great and is super easy to grab on your way out the door.

Primo Chalk Ball

The Primo Chalk Ball is 2.5 ounces and comes in a refillable stretchy pouch for easy and clean storage. When you’re using the ball, remove it from the pouch to apply to your hands, then place it back in when you’re done to keep your gym space clean. This pick provides great grip, and its formula is blended with five essential oils for scent and skin conditioning. While chalk balls aren’t as clean as liquid considering you still have to take them out of the pouch to use, they do keep your gym space cleaner than blocks or loose powder buckets. Plus, it’s easy to throw the pouch in a gym bag, and bring it with you wherever your next workout may be taking place.

Primo Chalk Ball

Primo Chalk Ball

This ball is 2.5 ounces and comes in a refillable stretchy pouch for clean storage. It provides great grip, and its formula is blended with five essential oils for a nice floral scent. 

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Who Should Buy The Primo Chalk Ball

• Athletes who need to take their lifting chalk on the go with them.
• Anyone who’s trying to keep their gym space clean of tons of powder residue. 
• Users who prefer powder chalk to liquid chalk. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Primo Chalk Ball

• Anyone who wants the cleanest option on the market, which is liquid chalk. 

Since powder chalk can get pretty messy, this pick is great for keeping the mess contained — just throw the pouch in your bag, take the chalk ball out when you need to use it, and then put it away for less of a lingering dust cloud. 

Best Lifting Chalk for Kettlebells

When you’re working with kettlebells, a strong grip is key in keeping yourself and those around you safe. This chunk style chalk is made for competition and will keep your hands in place through any kettlebell swing.

VIKN Performance Chalk

This resealable bag contains 450 grams of 100 percent magnesium chalk. This competition grade chunk style chalk is made for athletes who favor kettlebell workouts and need a strong, precise grip for safety purposes. This non-toxic and long-lasting formula will keep you gripped no matter how quickly you’re moving through your HIIT kettlebell workout. While the VIKN Performance Chalk keeps your hands dry and increases friction, it can get messy since it is a chunk powder sitting loose in a bag.

VIKN Performance Chalk

VIKN Performance Chalk

This chalk is 450 grams of 100 percent magnesium chalk. It's made for athletes who love kettlebell workouts and need a strong grip for precise movements. 

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Who Should Buy VIKN Performance Chalk

• Anyone who’s working consistently with kettlebells, which require a solid grip for precise movement. 
• Those who prefer a powder lifting chalk. 
• Those who want a loose chunky powder for easy application.

Who Shouldn’t Buy VIKN Performance Chalk

• Folks who want their powder contained in a ball or bar form. 
• Users who prefer a liquid formula to keep their space clear of dust clouds and powder residue. 

While this powder may leave your gym space a little messy, it’s one of the most reliable when it comes to keeping your grip steady for safety purposes during kettlebell movements. 

What is Lifting Chalk?

All of the chalks in this list are made out of magnesium carbonate, which is standard for lifting chalks. This type breaks apart easier than your standard chalkboard chalk, and sits in the ridges of the hands better.

During training, our hands and fingers are usually the first to sweat. Magnesium carbonate is an inorganic salt that acts as a drying agent, so once your hands make contact with lifting chalk, moisture is absorbed, and grip control increases. Its composition also withstands hot and humid weather for those who prefer to exercise outdoors. 

Lifting chalk is beneficial for athletes for many reasons. Chalk can help prevent skin injuries such as tears, calluses, and blisters, but it also decreases the chance of muscle strains as it assists athletes to secure the proper hold for lifts and deters equipment from dropping. 

With the added grip control, strength athletes and lifters also benefit from using chalk as they can train for longer periods of time and can confidently challenge themselves to lift heavier weights.

Lifting Chalk vs. Climbing Chalk Differences

Lifting chalk serves the purpose of improving grip and keeping hands sweat-free. Because of this, chalk used for these functionalities is primarily composed of the same main ingredient — magnesium carbonate. While some brands mix in moisturizing additives or sanitizing solutions, it is crucial for chalk used for lifting, climbing, and gymnastics to be predominantly magnesium carbonate. Generally speaking there really isn’t a difference between lifting chalk, climbing chalk, and gymnastics chalk.

If there is a difference, it relies mostly on your personal preference and the chalk’s state of matter. For instance, if you tend to have drier hands, liquid chalk might not be the best option as many brands include ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. The combination of alcohol acts as another drying agent, which is great for keeping your grip but will only dehydrate and irritate dry hands even further.

It is also important to factor in where the chalk is being utilized. For example, if you’re indoors, a very fine powdery chalk might not be your go-to as it’s messier and leaves residue behind. You might gravitate towards buying block chalk as it is more compressed and easier to clean off mats and equipment.

Lifting chalk is by and large the same across the board. The difference depends on preference and where the chalk is being used. 

Before Buying Lifting Chalk Consider

Since lifting chalk comes in various forms, it’s important to consider your individual situation before buying any of the picks on this list. How much of a mess are you willing to make? Are you buying for just yourself or a large group? Let us expand a little. 

Mess

Lifting chalk comes in various powder forms, or in liquid form. The powders are either loose in a bag or bucket, or they come formed into a ball or bar. No matter what form of powder you use, powder will always be the messiest kind of lifting chalk — though balls that come in pouches provide a little more containment than other powder forms. 

Liquid lifting chalk is going to be the cleanest chalk you can buy. It’s contained in a bottle and doesn’t turn into a chalky form until it makes contact with the air after you squirt it onto your palm. 

While all formulas are useful tools, you’ll want to consider how much of a mess you are willing to make before deciding which form to buy. If you’re lifting at home and want to keep your space generally clean, a liquid chalk may be best for you. If you’re supplying a group facility, buying large tubs of loose powder may be the easiest and most efficient way to go, making the mess more of a moot point. 

Individual or Group Training

Though all forms of chalk last for many months (if not years) of individual use, if you’re supplying a group training facility with chalk, you’ll obviously need to buy more. An individual block can last for a year if a single individual is using it, but if you’re throwing it into a group training facility, that same block may last a fraction of that time. 

If you’re buying for groups, it’s going to be more beneficial to buy lifting chalk in bulk — loose powders and bars are best for this. However, if you’re just buying for individual use, you can get away with a liquid or ball that sells in smaller amounts. 

How We Decide the Best

Since most lifting chalk is primarily made of magnesium carbonate, much more consideration was given to the convenience of the chalk type and how it matched the needs of the athletes using them when it came to making selections for this list. Here are a few of the main things we considered. 

Mess

For the sake of this round-up, comparisons were made to see how messy chalks were relative to one another. Aspects such as transportability and overall mess were evaluated to decide which chalks would be better for certain demographics. 

If you train in a gym that does not permit the use of traditional chalk, then liquid chalk is often the best bet. If your ym does allow traditional chalk, but you just want to stay generally clean, a ball that comes in a pouch is also a good option. If you’re not concerned about mess and just need a chalk you can buy in bulk, a tub of loose powder or bars may be the way to go. We’ve included both clean and messy picks on this list that will accommodate all of these demographics. 

Convenience

Another factor considered was the convenience of the product — how easy can the chalk be transported? Can this product be used easily at home? Is this product good for group facilities? We wanted products on this list that fell into all of these convenience categories. 

Larger quantities or blocks are better for public gyms, and multiple lifters that need chalk regularly compared to smaller chalk balls or liquid chalk that run out quicker. However, if you’re traveling to and from a gym with your chalk, you’ll need something compact and contained like a liquid or ball that you can bring with you in a gym bag. We’ve included high quality picks with all of these convenience factors in mind that should be able to satisfy most buyers. 

Final Word

In the gym, there aren’t many things that can provide as much grip security on equipment as quickly as chalk can. Lifting chalk is a great tool for promoting overall grip control on lifting equipment. Before investing in chalk though, it’s a good idea to check in with your gym to see if they allow its use. 

From there, consider how much of a mess you are willing to make, how much chalk you need, and which form you prefer. Once you’ve got your thoughts organized, this list can help with the rest. 

FAQs

The post The Best Lifting Chalk For Sustained Grip, Kettlebells, And More appeared first on BarBend.

But what pair of gloves is the perfect fit for you? There are gloves for every weightlifting niche and hand shape, so you don’t want to grab the first pair that pops up when you start scouring the web. When it comes to breaking down the “bests” for full fingers, pull ups, women, and more, we’ve done all the scouring for you right here.

Best Lifting Gloves

• Best Lifting Gloves Overall: Mechanix Original Gloves
• Best Lifting Gloves for Grip: Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves
• Best Lifting Gloves for Women: Mechanix Original Women’s Gloves
• Best Fingerless Lifting Gloves: Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves
• Best Lifting Gloves with Full Fingers: FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves
• Best Lifting Gloves for Pull Ups: Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips
• Best Lifting Gloves for Wrist Support: Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

Best Lifting Gloves Overall

Our top pick stays put and keeps you protected, but isn’t so thick that it impairs grip sensitivity or causes excess sweat.

Mechanix Original Gloves

These gloves are touchscreen compatible, so you’ll be able to use all the apps you need to track your progress mid-workout. The breathable material keeps your hands clean of excess sweat, and these gloves are machine washable, so you won’t have to worry about scrubbing them clean after a messy workout. 

Mechanix Original Gloves

Mechanix Original Gloves

With an excellent feature set and great price point, these Mechanix Original Gloves offer great value. Durable but comfortable, you’ll get plenty of use out of this pair throughout your training journey.

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Who Should Buy Mechanix Original Gloves

• Athletes who want a comfortable fit.
• Buyers looking for touchscreen compatible gloves. 
• Anyone who needs a durable pair of gloves that will last a solid four or five years.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Mechanix Original Gloves

• Lifters who prefer training with fingerless gloves.
• Consumers who want gloves with different color options.
• People who prefer gloves made with natural material.

Well made, cleverly designed, and machine washable, these gloves score our top placement on this list, hands down. 

Best Lifting Gloves for Grip

Grip is absolutely key when lifting. So much so that for many, putting more work into your grip without changing anything else can be a huge factor in increasing your one rep max in a number of movements, like the deadlift where grip strength is paramount. Finding a pair of gloves that can aid your grip — like this pick — is potentially a great way to increase the results of your training.

Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

These gloves have several key features to aid with gripping. They’re fingerless, allowing for greater sensation, have a leather palm that is breathable but not at all slippery, and they have wrap-around thumb protection to keep heavier weights from digging into your hands. While the leather palm is breathable, it’s still a bit thicker, so expect a nice layer of cushion from these gloves. 

Who Should Buy Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

• Athletes looking for gloves with a grippy leather palm.
• Gym-goers who prefer fingerless gloves to avoid excess sweating.
• Customers looking for a set of gloves that also supports their wrists.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

• Those looking for less cushion in their gloves to allow for greater sensation.
• Trainees who want gloves that are machine washable.
• Anyone who wants full fingered gloves for warmth or protection.

Well-made and supportive, these gloves keep your hands safe without compromising your ability to hold on to your weights.

Best Lifting Gloves for Women

Though women can opt to use any lifting glove on this list, oftentimes finding a glove that fits more snugly around the hand will make for a more productive workout. With adjustments in sizing and form in mind, this pick caters to smaller hands and is our top choice for female lifters. 

Mechanix Original Women’s Gloves

This pick is form fitting and made with premium materials, including TrekDry® that helps wick sweat, and keep you cool during intense workouts. The fit is smaller than your average lifting glove, and there are two different color options. In addition, these gloves are machine washable, which will keep your post-workout cleaning routine quick and painless.

Mechanix Original Women's Gloves

Mechanix Original Women's Gloves

With a host of great features, these Mechanix Original Women’s Gloves are ideal for women who want a snug fit and secure grip while lifting.

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Who Should Buy Mechanix Original Women’s Gloves

• Women who want gloves designed with their size in mind.
• Consumers looking for a machine washable pair of gloves.
• Lifters who want gloves with a more colorful design option.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Mechanix Original Women’s Gloves

• Trainees who prefer a more padded glove for greater comfort.
• Buyers with larger hands.
• Athletes looking for gloves that offer more wrist support.

For women who don’t want to compromise in the gym, these gloves are smartly designed for smaller hands and will fit snugly for a firm grip. 

Best Fingerless Lifting Gloves

Fingerless gloves are great for those who prefer to feel their weights a little better than they would with full finger gloves. This pick keeps your hands cool and allows for dexterity, making it our top choice in the fingerless category. 

Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves

Tough yet nimble, these gloves have shock resistant padding on the palms and sonic welded Thermoplastic Rubber to protect the knuckles. The half-finger design means you’ll still be able to perform fine motor skills, and the breathable material will keep you sweat-free throughout your workouts.

Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves

Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves

For people who want hand protection, but still need full control of their fingers, these Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves are a great solution.

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Who Should Buy Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves

• Consumers looking for a set of fingerless gloves for extra dexterity.
• People looking for a lightweight set of gloves that are also durable.
• Athletes who need breathable gloves to avoid excess sweat.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Mechanix Fingerless Covert Gloves

• Anyone who wants a warmer set of gloves for working out in cold environments.
• Trainees who need a thicker, more padded set of gloves for comfort.
• Buyers who are looking for a more colorful design.

We love the control these gloves enable without sacrificing the comfort and safety you need in the gym.

Best Lifting Gloves with Full Fingers

If you are sensitive to cold, want a bit more protection for your hands, or simply find full-fingered gloves to be a little more secure during use, this pair takes the top position in our full-coverage category.

FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves

A concern when it comes to full finger lifting gloves is that they won’t allow for as much dexterity as fingerless gloves. These gloves, however, have added spandex to ensure freer movement. The palms are buttressed with foam pads that are great for comfort when lifting, and the hook and loop closure allows for optimal convenience when getting these gloves on and off. 

FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves

FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves

If comfort is a priority, these FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves should appeal to you. Ideal for working out in colder climates, these gloves also have excellent padding to prevent heavy weights from digging into your hands.

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Who Should Buy FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves

• Lifters who prefer a full finger set of gloves for warmth.
• Athletes looking for a pair of gloves that can stretch for comfort.
• Buyers who want a very light, breathable pair of gloves.

Who Shouldn’t Buy FREETOO Full Finger Workout Gloves

• Those who prefer gloves made with natural material.
• Trainees who want fingerless gloves for touchscreen compatibility. 
• Customers looking for gloves with more support.

Lightweight and breathable, yet amply protective, we think these gloves are ideal for anyone looking to keep their hands warm, secure, and fully covered while lifting.

Best Lifting Gloves for Pull Ups

While most gloves can be used with pull ups, the pick we’re highlighting can also handle kipping movements. CrossFit popularized kipping with toes to bar and pull ups. These movements are extra demanding on your skin, and can do some damage if you’re training at volume, have poor form or don’t use protection.

Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips

Designed specifically with kipping in mind, these grips are triple stitched for durability. The natural leather conforms easily to any bar you use without causing any slippage. Plus, the combo of the three finger holes and secure (but easily adjustable) wrist strap makes for easy removal and transitions between exercises if you’re putting on a different pair for your post-pull up work. 

Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips

Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips

Designed to deal with the rigors of kipping pull ups and more, these Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips are really durable, easy to use, and most importantly, keep your skin intact through the most demanding workouts.

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Who Should Buy Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips

• Lifters intent on doing plenty of kipping movements throughout their training.
• Athletes who prefer a minimalist protective glove.
• Customers looking for gloves made with natural material.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Bear KompleX 3 Hole Hand Grips

• Anyone who wants a full fingered glove for greater protection.
• Trainees looking for a set of gloves that are more securely attached to the hands.
• Buyers who want a set of gloves that will keep their hands warmer.

Ideal for CrossFitters, these grips will work through even the highest rep kipping workouts, unscathed.

Best Lifting Gloves for Wrist Support

Since your wrists are one of your smallest joints, they often don’t get the same attention other parts of the body receive, which can lead to injury. Wrist wraps offer added support, and these gloves incorporate wraps to keep your wrists safe through any heavy lift. 

Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

Sporting an additional poly/cotton wrist wrap, these gloves provide fully adjustable support for your wrists throughout training. The reinforced leather wrap-around thumb protection also adds a layer of protection for an area that athletes commonly tear skin. The half-finger coverage also lends to better dexterity and control during heavy lifts. 

Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

Grip is a key component for lifting and these Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves will ensure your hands and wrists are protected, without compromising the grip on your weights.

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Who Should Buy Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

• Lifters who want gloves that are more supportive of their wrists.
• Trainees who want a glove that is well ventilated for comfort.
• Customers who appreciate having a 90-day warranty for security.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Harbinger Pro Wristwrap Weightlifting Gloves

• Those who prefer full fingered gloves for greater protection.
• Anyone who prefers gloves that are less padded for greater sensation.
• Athletes who want a more colorful design.

An ideal combination, these gloves will protect both your hands and wrists, offering extra coverage to prevent painful skin tears. 

What to Consider Before Buying a Lifting Gloves

With so many factors to consider and questions to ask before you pick your perfect pair of lifting gloves, we wanted to narrow it down for you. Here are a few of the most important points to weigh before your purchase. 

Your Primary Use

A pair of gloves for general fitness will look very different from a pair that a CrossFitter or armed forces selection trainee would want. For general fitness, anything that is comfortable and protective will be fine. As you start getting more niche in your training, you’re going to want more niche gloves — like those that cater specifically to pull ups, or any other particular exercise you perform regularly.

Your Budget

Thankfully, gloves are fairly affordable. There are price differences, and the more niche gloves tend to be slightly more expensive, but this shouldn’t be ruinous. The main thing we’d advise here is to avoid buying anything too expensive, period.

Fingerless vs. Full Finger

There are arguments for each style, and this will ultimately circle back to how you’ll be using the gloves. Fingerless gloves are great for athletes who want to feel their weights a little better and have a more adjustable grip on a barbell for exercises like deadlifts or snatches. Full finger gloves don’t allow for as much movement once you’re gripped, keeping you locked in and stable for extra heavy lifts.

However, you should also consider your general propensity to sweat here. Fingerless options are going to be better in the long run if you tend to run hot. Full fingered gloves are better if you’re training in a cold place or just don’t tend to sweat as much.

Material

The main decision here is whether you want gloves made with synthetic material or natural material. The natural material you will most commonly find in lifting gloves is leather, which is hardy but does require a little bit of upkeep. Synthetic materials can include thermal plastic rubber, synthetic leather, polyester, spandex, and more. Synthetic materials vary in toughness, but still require washing regularly.

In general, leather gloves are going to provide you with the most durability, but synthetic materials may be able to provide a stronger grip — materials like silicone or neoprene are particularly useful in this department. In addition, synthetic materials provide more breathability, while leather palms often have some synthetic materials built in around them to allow for the breathability you don’t get through the thick leather itself. 

Durability

There are pros and cons of buying the most durable gloves on the market. Though you may go out searching for the gloves that will last you the longest, this durability is often achieved by using stronger and thicker material of any kind. This, in turn, reduces sensation and increases the difficulty securing the proper grip. 

This is a bit of a balancing act, and one that you will have to experiment with before choosing which direction to go. For some, a thinner glove will end up providing the best training experience even though the product is a little less durable.

Final Word

At the end of the day, lifting gloves are a tool that is going to help you improve your training, and different people need different tools for different tasks. There are definitely pros and cons to each of these picks we covered, but overall, you’re going to want to go with what makes you feel the most comfortable. If your gloves are comfortable, and they’re helping you accomplish your fitness goals, that’s a win in our book. 

FAQs

The post The Best Lifting Gloves For Grip, Pull Ups, Wrist Support And More appeared first on BarBend.

There are a few factors that the top-tier water bottles on the market have to separate themselves from the rest of the field. Finding a water bottle that is easy to drink, durable, and aesthetically pleasing while attached to your gym bag is important. So which water bottle is best for you? Check out some of our top picks below:

Best Water Bottles

• Best Water Bottle: Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle
• Best Water Bottle for Sports: Embrava Best Sports Water Bottle
• Best Value Water Bottle: Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle
• Best Flip Top Water Bottle: Opard 30oz Sports Water Bottle
• Best Squeeze Water Bottle: Adidas Stadium 750 ML (26oz) Plastic Water Bottle

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended to diagnose, prevent, and/or treat health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Best Water Bottle

This wide-mouth flex cap water bottle can hold up to 32 ounces of liquid and is made with stainless steel to prevent altering the contained liquid’s flavor. When filled, it weighs three pounds. It can be used for either hot or cold liquids, and its double-wall insulation keeps liquids cold for up to a full day. It is bisphenol A (BPA)-free and has a band on the cap for easier carrying and travel.

Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle

Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle

This 32-ounce water bottle is made from stainless steel, is vacuum insulated, and comes with a leak-proof flex cap. It can keep liquids cold for up to 24 hours and hot liquids warm for up to six hours.

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Who Should Buy Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle

• Those who need to keep their liquid cold for extended periods of time — this bottle keeps water cool for up to 24 hours.
• Anyone who prefers a stainless steel water bottle to a plastic bottle.
• Folks who value their bottle being free of industrial chemicals like BPA.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle

• People who prefer a water bottle that is machine washable.
• Those working on a tighter budget.

[Related: The Lifter’s Guide To Magnesium: What This Nutrient Does For Strength]

Best Water Bottle for Sports

This 32-ounce water bottle is BPA and toxin-free and utilizes a one-click opening clip for quick and easy sips during game breaks. Made from polyester, it is dust and leak-proof, impact-resistant, and fit for most cup holders. The spill-proof lid helps ensure no liquid seeps through into your gym bag when on the move, and it includes a carry strap for easier travel.

Embrava Best Sports Water Bottle

Embrava Best Sports Water Bottle

This water bottle sports a carrying strap and leak-proof lid. It is BPA-free, fits most cup holders, and is impact-resistant. It is made from polyester and available in four different colors.

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Who Should Buy Embrava Best Sports Water Bottle

• Those who travel often and want a bottle that can fit in most cup holders.
• Anyone who values a water bottle that is impact-resistant (read: won’t crack when dropped on hard surfaces).
• People who want a carry strap on their water bottle.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Embrava Best Sports Water Bottle

• Folks who want a stainless steel water bottle to keep liquids cold for longer periods of time.
• Anyone who wants a wider mouthpiece for bigger swigs of water at a time.

[Related: The Real Pros And Cons Of The Bodybuilding Lifestyle]

Best Value Water Bottle

This BPA-free, polyester water bottle has a 32-ounce capacity for either hot or cold liquids and is dishwasher safe. The mouthpiece has a diameter of 2.5 inches to make for easier filling and the ability for the user to take larger gulps of water. It stands 8.2 inches tall and has measurement markers in both milliliters and ounces. The twist cap wraps around the neck of the bottle and can be attached to a gym bag for smoother travel.

Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

This wide-mouth, dishwasher-safe, 32-ounce water bottle is made from polyester and is BPA-free. It has measuring markers on its side for both millimeters and ounces and is 8.2 inches tall.

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Who Should Buy Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

• Those who value having measurement markers to make filling up to a certain volume easier (good for mixing multiple liquids that need measuring).
• Folks on the move who want a water bottle that can be clipped onto a gym bag (can be attached via the cap but does not have a connecting clip or carabiner itself)
• Anyone trying not to reach too deep into their wallet.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

• Folks who want a more narrow mouthpiece (this one is pretty wide with a 2.5-inch diameter).
• People who don’t want their water bottles to be see-through.

[Related: 3 Ways To Find Your 1-Rep Max (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced)]

Best Flip Top Water Bottle

This Tritan water bottle is available in 10 different matte colors and is translucent. It is leak-resistant, dust-proof, and made in the USA. The flip-top pops off by sliding down a locking lid with your thumb, making it easy to open with just one hand. It stands 10.2 inches tall, includes a small handle that can be attached to a gym bag’s clip or separate carabiner, and has a volume marker on its side.

Opard 30oz Sports Water Bottle

Opard 30oz Sports Water Bottle

This water bottle is made with leakproof silicone and features a removable filter, volume marker, closing latch, and clip for easier travel. It is BPA and toxin-free and is available in 10 different colors. 

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Who Should Buy Opard 30oz Sports Water Bottle

• Anyone who wants an easy-to-open water bottle (can be opened single-handedly with an easy-release locking lid).
• Folks who value products made in the USA.
• People who are happy to have the removable filter to infuse fruit into their water.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Opard 30oz Sports Water Bottle

• Those who don’t want a water bottle that shows how much liquid is in it.
• Anyone who prefers a wide-mouthpiece water bottle.

[Related: Nutrition For Bulking: 10 Tips For Intelligent Muscle Gain]

Best Squeeze Water Bottle

This 26-ounce plastic water bottle is odor and stain-resistant, and BPA-free. It has markings on its side for measuring milliliters and ounces. It comes in four different color options and sports some knurling around its upper section for an easier grip when sweating. Although it is recommended to be washed by hand rather than by machine, it is one of the more affordable options available on the market.

Adidas Stadium 750 ML (26oz) Plastic Water Bottle

Adidas Stadium 750 ML (26oz) Plastic Water Bottle

This 750-milliliter capacity water bottle is available in four different colors and is resistant to odor and stains. It features the Adidas logo and classic three stripes design. It is BPA-free and hand-washable.

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Who Should Buy Adidas Stadium 750 ML (26oz) Plastic Water Bottle

• People who want a thin water bottle that can fit in most cup holders.
• Folks who want a bottle they can squeeze for better water pressure sips.
• Anyone working with a tighter budget.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Adidas Stadium 750 ML (26oz) Plastic Water Bottle

• Those who want a water bottle with a carrying strap.
• Anyone who wants a machine-washable water bottle.

[Related: Hypertrophy Training Sets And Reps]

How We Decided Our Picks Picks

While much of the decision-making when choosing a water bottle will come down to personal preference, there are a few things to consider while shopping.

Durability 

If you’re going to invest in a water bottle, particularly one of the pricier options, it should be built to last. The key here is getting a water bottle that isn’t going to break if it’s tossed around a bag, won’t leak, and can handle all the curveballs on any given day. Stainless steel, Tritan plastic, or other impact-resistant materials should be more highly valued in your pick order.

Purpose

Not all water bottles are created equal. Some are better for outdoor hiking, and others are great for sitting on top of a desk at the office. Either way, it’s important to look at your activity level and lifestyle before picking a water bottle to match. For example, if you’re into hot yoga, look for a water bottle with a good grip in sweaty conditions.

Appearance 

It doesn’t have to be fancy, but a water bottle you hate looking at probably isn’t the best pick, so aesthetics are a reasonable deciding point if the practical aspects of your top choices are equal. If you want to see how much liquid is in the bottle from the outside, there are translucent or clear water bottles available. Likewise, if you don’t like that, there are solid color options that don’t reveal that information to the outside eye.

[Related: The 3 Most Effective Workouts Splits For Strength Training]

What To Consider Before Buying

Now that you’ve got an idea of what kind of water bottles are out there let’s go over a few suggestions for an active person looking for a water bottle to bring to the gym, field, court, or any other fitness journey. 

• Quality is key. Look for a water bottle that is durable, leak-proof, and/or impact-resistant. Stainless steel and similar material water bottles are likely the best options for quality.
• Look for insulation. Keeping water cool during training sessions is often a high priority. Water bottles with insulation that can keep water cool for longer periods of time will better preserve that refreshing sip after a set.

Hopefully, all of these tips, selections, and recommendations will make it easier to choose the best water bottle for you.

The post The Best Water Bottles For Sports, Flip Tops, and More appeared first on BarBend.

On this list, you’ll find our top picks for men and women, along with those for flat feet, high arches, long distances, and more. When you’re considering which running shoes to buy, it’s important to think about what kind of training you’ll be doing, how many miles you’ll be putting in on a daily basis, your foot type, and if you’ll be competing regularly. As you’re going through this list, consider all of these aspects with the confidence that we’ve done the research to back each of these picks for their respective categories. 

Best Running Shoes

• Best Running Shoes: Adidas Ultraboost 21
• Best Running Shoes for Women: Altra Women’s Escalante 2.5
• Best Running Shoes for Men: Altra Men’s Escalante 2.5
• Best Running Shoes for Cross Training: Reebok Speed TR
• Best Running Shoes for Long Runs: Brooks Glycerin 19
• Best Running Shoes for the Money: Asics Gel Nimbus 22
• Best Running Shoes for Competition: Nike ZoomX Pegasus
• Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet: New Balance FreshFoam 860v11
• Best Running Shoes for High Arches: Brooks Ghost 13

Best Overall Running Shoes

Our pick for best running shoes is both durable and well-cushioned, making it a great choice for your average long distance road runs plus a lot more. 

Adidas Ultraboost 21

The Adidas Ultraboost 21 not only looks great aesthetically — Kanye West would know as he’s been sighted in them on multiple occasions — but is also a quality running shoe to boot. It features a crystal rubber outsole and a thick midsole. The transitions are smooth, but it is a bit heavy, so consider that if you’re looking for a lighter run. On the whole, if you’re looking for a durable running shoe that offers a substantial amount of comfort, the Adidas Ultraboost 21 may be the perfect fit for you.

adidas Ultraboost 21

adidas Ultraboost 21

The adidas Ultraboost 21 are a solid all-around running shoe, with a mix of comfort, support, and durability. If you're looking for a shoe that checks most boxes and looks great, the Ultraboost 21 might be a great fit for you. 

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Who Should Buy The Adidas Ultraboost 21

• Runners who like extra heel cushion on long distance runs.  
• Athletes who want a shoe that also looks good when they aren’t working out. 
• Anyone looking for a durable outsole that will withstand a lot of usage. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Adidas Ultraboost 21

• Runners who want a light shoe. 
• Customers who want a more cost-effective running show — this shoe can run for around $180.

Though expensive, the Adidas Ultraboost 21 is a durable pick and will last through daily distance runs. Plus, you’ll feel well-supported, cushioned, and stylish while you’re at it. 

Best Running Shoes for Women

This pick is a longtime favorite for experienced runners and newbies alike, and are great for those who want their feet to have more breathing room and wider toe box while they run. 

Altra Women’s Escalante 2.5

The Altra Women’s Escalante 2.5 has long been favored for its light ride. Along with the light weight, it’s also well-cushioned and has a comfortable one-piece knitted upper. Though comfortable, this upper isn’t as stable when changing directions at a fast speed, so this pair is best used at steady paces on a straight course. If you’re not trying to run sprints around tight corners, this shoe feels almost like a slipper, which makes for a great choice when it comes to consistent, comfortable running that’s easy on your feet. 

Altra Women's Escalante 2.5

Altra Women's Escalante 2.5

A fantastic running shoe for women, the Altra Escalante 2.5 blends comfort and breathability to a shoe that's forgiving and durable at a very reasonable price point. 

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Who Should Buy The Altra Women’s Escalante 2.5

• Anyone who wants a lightweight shoe. 
• Steady, long distance runners who prioritize comfort. 
• Athletes who want a shoe with a lower heel-to-toe ration to strengthen their feet and lower legs.

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Altra Women’s Escalante 2.5

• Trail runners working with unpredictable terrain that may require quick turns at a high speed.

The Altra Women’s Escalate 2.5 is lightweight, comfortable and great for women who run consistently. As long as you aren’t practicing tight turns, this shoe can handle any workout you throw its way.

Best Running Shoes for Men

Similar to our best pick for women, this shoe is light and springy and makes for a breezy, comfortable run. 

Altra Men’s Escalante 2.5

The Altra Men’s Escalante 2.5 is lightweight, breathable, and adds a little extra energy boost to every step you take. It has a quick response time for changing speeds and allows for foot mobility inside the shoe as you’re upping your speed. It’s both cushioned and versatile, making it great for everyday use.

Altra Men's Escalante 2.5

Altra Men's Escalante 2.5

With a wider toe box than some other running shoes and a slightly less pronounced heel-to-toe differential, the Altra Escalante 2.5 is a solid shoe for guys looking for a comfortable run. 

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Who Should Buy The Altra Men’s Escalante 2.5

• Runners who prefer a lightweight shoe. 
• Athletes who want a shoe that can change speeds with ease. 
• Anyone who’s looking for something versatile at a good price. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Altra Men’s Escalante 2.5

• Runners who prefer a thicker sole for added heel cushioning. 

Overall, this shoe can pretty much do it all — it’s lightweight, durable, soft, comfortable and has a great response time when changing speeds. If you’re looking for something that will last at a great cost, this is your find. 

Best Running Shoes for Cross Training

This pick has a well-built outsole for running and can also hold stable for other workouts like box jumps and rope climbs. 

Reebok Speed TR

The Reebok Speed TR is made of a flexible material that can adjust to whatever workout you’re focusing on that day. It’s lightweight and stretchy, giving you the versatility you need to perform an array of different movements. Along with its cushioning, the outsole is also hard and sturdy, which allows it to hold up through lots of usage—especially when going through crossfit style workouts. 

Reebok Speed TR

Reebok Speed TR

A cost efficient cross training shoe that's designed for both lifting and running workouts, the Reebok Speed TR is super lightweight, has a stable heel, and comes in a ton of color combinations. 

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Who Should Buy The Reebok Speed TR

• Runners who like to incorporate crossfit training into their workout routine. 
• Athletes who need a shoe that flexes with movements like box jumps and burpees.
• Customers who are looking for a steal — this shoe runs for only $90.

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Reebok Speed TR

• Runners who don’t incorporate a lot of cross training into their running workout routine. 
• Athletes looking for an arched midsole — this shoe’s midsole is fairly flat to accommodate cross training. 

This shoe is definitely best for crossfit or other cross training exercises you may be mixing into your running routine — it’s flexible, lightweight and versatile, making it great for an array of movements.

Read our full review of the Reebok Speed TR.

Best Running Shoes for Long Runs

With the soft foam platform, this pick feels extra bouncy for the boost you need to endure long runs without tearing up your legs. 

Brooks Glycerin 19

Though this shoe runs a touch small, it has a light feel and great energy return. The foam midsole not only protects your foot from those extra miles, but it also adds a little spring back into your step to keep you going. The ride is soft, but not the softest on the market — it’s better just to describe it as padded. However, it can withstand lots of miles, so rest assured it will hold up for any marathon training you have on the schedule. 

Brooks Glycerin 19

Brooks Glycerin 19

If you're looking for a running shoe that offers a padded feel and can handle high milage, the Brooks Glycerin 19 running shoe is a durable option for runners consistently hitting the pavement for long durations. 

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Who Should Buy The Brooks Glycerin 19

• Runners who want a shoe that puts some spring back into their step. 
• Athletes who are looking for a lightweight shoe. 
• Customers who don’t like soft or hard feels — they want something right in the middle. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Brooks Glycerin 19

• Runners who are looking for a shoe that’s a little more versatile and can handle speed work and cross training.
• Customers who want shoes that don’t give off “dad vibes.” 

This pick is durable, made to withstand lots of miles, and will feel light and bouncy as you go. If you’re looking to train for a marathon, this smooth right will do the trick.  

Best Running Shoes for the Money

Asics have long been a choice for first-time runners because of their high quality for the price. The Gel Nimbus 22 is no exception, and our pick as the best running shoe for the money.

Asics Gel Nimbus 22

The Asics Gel Nimbus 22 is built to withstand lots of miles with great cushioning that uses foam in the midsole and gel in the heel. It’s pretty neutral, which makes it both versatile and great for beginners. It provides a decent energy return and responds well with speed changes. The shoe is also fairly lightweight and breathable, so it will keep you comfortable as you’re putting in those miles. 

Asics Gel Nimbus 22

Asics Gel Nimbus 22

The Asics Gel Nimbus 22 running shoe is easy on the foot and the wallet. Coming from a classic line of running shoes, these sneakers are the perfect balance of comfort and support — not too squishy or hard on the foot. 

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Who Should Buy The Asics Gel Nimbus 22

• Beginners looking for a versatile and high quality starter shoe.
• Customers who want a good deal — this shoe starts at just $79.95
• Runners who want a shoe that can withstand high mileage. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Asics Gel Nimbus 22

• Advanced runners who are ready to work on their speed and technique a little more intensely. 
• Athletes who want something that feels super lightweight and slipper-like.  

This pick is comfortable, breathable, versatile and durable, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a good shoe at a low price. 

Best Running Shoes for Competition

This pick is ultra light, which is what makes it a great choice for runners who are passionate about racing and running fast. 

Nike ZoomX Pegasus

Though the Nike ZoomX Pegasus can be used as an everyday trainer, its lightweight and thin tongue make it ideal for racing. The foam midsole provides great support — it works like a sponge that pushes you right into your next stride. However, because the upper is so thin, it can be bothersome to some runners. If you can handle loosening the laces and dealing with a looser fit, the spring will still be great and the upper won’t be as bothersome.

Nike ZoomX Pegasus

Nike ZoomX Pegasus

The Nike ZoomX Pegasus running shoe is incredibly light and fantastic for runners who compete. Speed is the name of the game with this shoe, offering a lightweight feel and lots of energy transfer through the midsole. 

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Who Should Buy The Nike ZoomX Pegasus

• Runners who are keen on finding a shoe that will get them that PR in their next race. 
• Athletes who enjoy a lighter feel. 
• Customers who need a shoe that provides solid energy return. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Nike ZoomX Pegasus

• Buyers looking for a deal — this shoe goes for $180. 
• Runners who tie their laces super tight — the thin upper may dig into your foot a bit.

The Nike ZoomX Pegasus is made for competitors who need a shoe that is lightweight enough to carry them to that PR and keep their feet cushioned in the process. It may go for a hefty cost, but can you really put a price on a gold medal? 

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

This pick has all of its energy focused on the midfoot, making it great for those with flat feet that need a little extra stability. 

New Balance FreshFoam 860v11

The New Balance FreshFoam 860v11 is a stability trainer with a sole that will keep runners with flat feet steady throughout their daily miles. The solid medial post holds the midfoot firm which helps flat footed runners keep stable and avoid pain even in longer distance runs. However, it is worth noting that because of the focus on the stable midsole, it can have a harder feel than other shoes.

New Balance FreshFoam 860v11

New Balance FreshFoam 860v11

For runners with flat feet, the New Balance FreshFoam 860v11 is a supportive running shoe designed to provide a lot of comfort in the mid-foot while you pound the pavement. 

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Who Should Buy The New Balance FreshFoam 860v11

• Runners with flat feet looking for a shoe that will hold their midfoot stable. 
• Athletes who need a shoe that can endure long miles. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The New Balance FreshFoam 860v11

• Customers who don’t like a hard feel after a bit of usage. 
• Anyone looking for a shoe under $100 — this shoe goes for $130. 

While these shoes are durable for all, their build focuses on midfoot support. The medial post helps flat footed runners stay steady throughout their runs. 

Best Running Shoes for High Arches

Our top pick for the best running shoe for people with high arches is a tried-and-true running shoe that has great cushioning and versatility. 

Brooks Ghost 13

The Brooks Ghost 13 is both soft and sturdy. Though it may feel as though you’re putting on your comfiest slipper, this shoe can withstand long distances. It has ample heel cushioning, which makes it great for people with high arches whose feet are so stable that they need the extra cushioning to avoid injuries like shin splints. The added cushioning will help reduce impact on the foot and leg that stable high arches don’t do on their own.

Brooks Ghost 13

Brooks Ghost 13

Runners with high arches will need a good bit of cushion to help protect them on impact. The Brooks Ghost 13 shoe has a lot of forgiveness in the heel, and should help those with high arches feel more comfort when running. 

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Who Should Buy The Brooks Ghost 13

• Runners with extremely high arches who need extra cushioning to protect their stride during both indoor and outdoor running.
• Athletes who are putting in a lot of daily mileage. 
• Anyone who wants a shoe that feels almost as plush as a pillow. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy The Brooks Ghost 13

• Flat-footed runners who need a shoe that focuses on stability instead of heel cushioning. 

The Brooks Ghost 13 is comfortable and features added cushioning to protect runners with high arches whose feet are naturally very rigid. 

Before Buying Running Shoes Consider

When you’re about to start your hunt, there are a few considerations you need to make before you scour the web or hit the stores. 

Sizing, Lacing and Materials

 When shopping for a running shoe, it’s important to look at first and foremost the size of your foot and its arch length. It’s also important to look at heel height and type, and what the lacing/strapping situation is like. While these aren’t necessarily every factor that goes into shopping for a running shoe, sizing, lacing, and activity preferences are some of the components to consider. 

• Type of Heel — When shopping for a running shoe, it’s important to look at heel support and then general sole of the shoe. Some shoes even have higher outsoles that provide added benefits.
• Lacing/Strapping — Lacing and strapping are key parts of any shoe. Good lacing and strong straps help ensure the foot security. Runners don’t want to ever slip, or feel unstable, so we looked at lacing that was simple, strong, and even picked one shoe that had leather straps to make sure the foot stays intact. 
• Activity — Depending on activity level and running style, look for a shoe that is specific to that is crucial. Most running shoes are designed for a certain distance, terrain, and may even be made for a certain foot size/shape. 

Arches

One of the most important things to consider when thinking about buying a pair of running shoes is your arches. Do you have flat feet, high arches, or something in between? 

If you have flat feet, you’re going to need a shoe that keeps your feet stable while you run — that means you’ll need to look for structure and a snug fit. If you have high arches, you’ll need a shoe that relieves some of the rigidity from your feet in the form of added heel cushioning. While all running shoes provide some form of cushioning, those with high arches should look for extra thick midsoles to cushion your already-steady feet. 

Usage

You’ll also need to consider what type of training you will be doing in these shoes. Are you walking or running? Are you planning a short jog every week, or something longer? Will you be indoors or on flat ground, or will you be braving outdoor trails and rough terrain? How often will you run? Will you be incorporating cross training?

Based on your answers to these questions, you can choose something with higher durability for lots of running, or more versatility for cross training. If you’re hitting the trails, you’ll need something that has smooth transitions and can handle sharp changes. Either way, you’ll find an option that suits your style on this list — you just need to make sure you know what exactly that style is first. 

How We Decide the Best

There are various aspects to consider when picking the best running shoes, including cushioning, fit, durability, price and more. When we selected the best running shoes for this list, we weighed all these traits to find the top shoes for you to consider in the search for your perfect fit. 

Price

Oftentimes, when you’re looking for a running shoe, one of the first things you consider is the price. While you don’t want to skimp on quality for a good deal, you also don’t want to overpay. We’ve made sure that every pick on this list is worth its price tag. 

Even when you’re considering a higher priced option, you can rest assured we’ve done our due diligence to ensure that these picks will be worth the money in whichever category they are considered “best” in. Just remember that if you want extra features or a rare color combination, you’ll likely pay more, while basic shoes with less features tend to cost less. There’s always a give and take, but the range of picks include here covers the spectrum of options and price points on the market. 

Fit

When considering the fit, we’ve looked at things like heel slippage, size accuracy, foot mobility and foot shape. None of the shoes on this list have the heel slippage that will hinder a run and the majority of them are true to size — if they aren’t we’ve flagged it for you. 

In addition, it’s important that your foot not feel too snug or stiff inside your shoe — you still want to be able to move your foot when running, whether it’s for changing directions suddenly or just for general comfort. The shape of your foot is also key, so we’ve included shoes that are great for both high arches and flat feet on this list to make it all-inclusive. 

Comfort

Obviously comfort is going to be key in choosing your perfect running shoe. When it comes to comfort, we’ve weighed the upper, midsole and outsole thickness and material. Having a quality foam midsole is important and pairing that with a durable rubber or gel outsole is key. The foam midsole will provide comfort and cushioning while the rubber or gel outsole will also provide some cushioning, but mostly durability. 

In addition to cushioning, breathability and weight are very important to consider. When you’re running, it’s ideal to run with a shoe that has both a breathable mesh or knit material combined with a weight that’s comfortable for you. 

As far as this list goes, know that each pick has one, if not all three of these traits. You definitely won’t find a single shoe on here that doesn’t have some form of cushioning — that is the most important aspect of comfort to consider when running. 

Durability

When you’re putting any sort of money toward a purchase, you’re going to want to make sure you’re getting the proper bang for your buck. If you buy a running shoe that only lasts two months, then you’re either running as much as an elite marathoner (congrats) or the shoes weren’t worth the money. 

On this list, you’ll only find shoes that are durable enough to live up to their price tags. You won’t see any of these picks wearing down until around that six month mark, which is the ideal time a shoe should last for runners who put in about 20 miles per week. Some may even last longer than that — it will just depend on your level of usage and shoe design choice.  

Final Word

Choosing the proper running shoes can feel overwhelming. Afterall, there are a seemingly infinite number of options on the market, and the names don’t tell you anything about the qualities the shoes offer. Before starting your hunt, make sure you have a list of the traits you’re looking for — where you’ll be using the shoes, how often you’ll be using the shoes, what kind of training you’ll be doing and what type of shoe your foot needs. Once you have this checklist, it should be a whole lot easier to sift through reviews, brands, makes and models. 

FAQs

The post Best Running Shoes for High Arches, Flat Feet, Cross Training, and More appeared first on BarBend.

The market for athletic headbands is vast. The variance in quality and purpose is high. There are lightweight, barely-there bands for wicking sweat, thick earmuff designs built for cold-weather training, multipurpose headbands to help train in varying weather conditions, and more. In this roundup, we’ll detail some of our favorite headbands for men on the market and help you distinguish which ones may work best for your needs.

Best Men’s Headbands

• Best Men’s Headband: Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband
• Best Thin Men’s Headband: Rogue JUNK Thin Headbands
• Best Sweat-Wicking Men’s Headband: Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband
• Best Gaiter-Style Headband: Tough Headband Multipurpose Bandana
• Best Tennis Headband: Tanluhu Sweatband
• Best Non-Slip Headband: SATINIOR 10 Pieces Non-Slip Headbands

>Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended to diagnose, prevent, and/or treat health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Best Men’s Headband

Made from 89 percent polyester and 11 percent spandex, these machine-washable headbands are available in 22 different colors and patterns. They are sized as one-size-fits-most and are odor resistant. Each band has a height of 4.25 inches and can be rolled to offer a tighter, thicker band. The super-soft material is a solid choice for those who need to keep long hair out of their face while training or doing more intense workouts with many directional changes (think box jumps, butterfly pull-ups, etc.).

Who Should Buy Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

• Anyone who needs to keep their hair out of their eyes while training.
• Those who appreciate their fitness apparel being manufactured in the USA.
• Folks who want a headband that can be rolled for a tighter fit.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

• Those who want a thicker headband.
• People who want a less expensive option.

[Related: The Lifter’s Guide To Magnesium: What This Nutrient Does For Strength]

Best Thin Men’s Headband

These one-size-fits-most polyester and spandex blended headbands are manufactured in the USA and machine washable. There are three color options available — white, black, and static. The thinner cut of these headbands compared to other headband options made by JUNK may be a preferable choice for athletes who either don’t want their entire forehead covered or don’t have hair long enough to be disruptive to a workout.

Rogue JUNK Thin Headbands

Rogue JUNK Thin Headbands

These one-size-fits-most, odor-resistant headbands are made of 89 percent polyester and 11 percent spandex. They are made in the USA and are machine washable.

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Who Should Buy Rogue JUNK Thin Headbands

• Athletes who don’t have long hair.
• Those who prefer a thinner headband.
• People working with tighter budgets.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue JUNK Thin Headbands

• Folks who want a thicker or wider headband.

[Related: The Real Pros And Cons Of The Bodybuilding Lifestyle]

Best Sweat-Wicking Men’s Headband

As stated above, as our overall best men’s headband pick, these machine-washable, one-size-fits-most, odor-resistant headbands are available in 22 different colors and patterns. They measure 4.25 inches wide, are manufactured in the USA, and are a great choice for athletes who are prone to sweating heavily during training sessions.

Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

These headbands are made of 89 percent polyester and 11 percent spandex. They're available in 24 different colors, are machine washable, and manufactured in the USA.

Shop Rogue

Who Should Buy Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

• Anyone who needs to keep their hair out of their eyes while training.
• Those who appreciate their fitness apparel being manufactured in the USA.
• Folks who want a band that can be rolled for a tighter fit.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue JUNK Big Bang Lite Headband

• Those who want a thicker headband.
• People who want a less expensive option.

[Related: 3 Ways To Find Your 1-Rep Max (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced)]

Best Gaiter-Style Headband

The main draw to this headband is its versatility. Not only can it be used as a standard headband, but it has 11 other distinct applications from Balaklava to neck gaiter. The 100 percent microfiber band is sweat-wicking, breathable, and quick-drying for ideal use in warm weather.

The headband’s material helps protect against wind. Its thermal design makes it suitable for colder temperatures despite being a thinner material compared to other competitive options on the market. There are nearly 20 colors and patterns to choose from, including high-visibility options.

Tough Headband Multipurpose Bandana

Tough Headband Multipurpose Bandana

This multipurpose headband can be used as a balaclava, a headband, or a wristband for added protection from the elements. Its 100 percent microfiber material makes it ideal for any number of weather or athletic applications.

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Who Should Buy Tough Headband Multipurpose Bandana

• Those who are looking for a temperature-versatile headband (good in both warm and cold weather).
• Anyone who prefers a microfiber headband when playing sports.
• Folks who need a headband that can help protect against windchills.

Who Shouldn’t Buy Tough Headband Multipurpose Bandana

• People who are on the hunt for a headband with thicker material.
• Those who would prefer a gaiter that fits more snugly.

[Related: Nutrition For Bulking: 10 Tips For Intelligent Muscle Gain]

Best Tennis Headband

These one-size-fits-most headbands come in thirteen different color combinations and at a competitive price. They are made from 85 percent cotton, 12 percent spandex, and three percent nylon. Each one is expandable up to nearly thirteen inches, is quick-dry, and breathable. The headbands are all-grip (non-slip) and designed with odor control to prevent them from smelling during sweatier training sessions.

These are machine washable, but they offer better durability if hang dried rather than tumble-dried. Tanluhu recommends their hands for more aerobic-style training, yoga, cycling, and of course, tennis.

Tanluhu Sweatband

Tanluhu Sweatband

These headbands come in thirteen different color combinations at a competitive price. They are made from 85% cotton, 12% spandex, and 3% nylon.

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Who Should Buy Tanluhu Sweatband

• Those who need a headband for aerobic-focused sports like tennis or cycling.
• Anyone who wants a majority-cotton breathable headband that is quick to dry.
• People working with a tighter fitness apparel budget.

Who Shouldn’t Buy

• Those who prefer a tighter-fitting headband.
• Folks who don’t want their headband to leave marks on their skin after training.

[Related: Hypertrophy Training Sets And Reps]

Best Non-Slip Headband

These non-slip, nine-inch long headbands are designed with two inner-silicone bands to prevent slipping even under super-sweaty conditions. Made to be odorless and not irritate the skin, these tear-resistant headbands nine inches long and 1.96 inches wide. As a lightweight, stretchy, breathable headband option — available in 10 different colors — this is a great choice for anyone who routinely incorporates directional changing movements into their workouts, such as handstand push-ups.

SATINIOR 10 Pieces Non-Slip Headbands

SATINIOR 10 Pieces Non-Slip Headbands

These headbands can stretch up to 15 inches (38 centimeters) and have a width of 1.96 inches (5 centimeters). They are breathable and have an inner lining of anti-skid silicone.

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Who Should Buy SATINIOR 10 Pieces Non-Slip Headbands

• Those who need a non-slip headband to keep sweat out of their eyes while training.
• Anyone looking for a headband that won’t irritate the skin.

Who Shouldn’t Buy SATINIOR 10 Pieces Non-Slip Headbands

• People seeking a thinner headband.
• Folks looking to keep their fitness apparel spending down.

[Related: Could Baking Soda Be The Best Workout Supplement You’ve Never Tried?]

How We Decided Our Picks

Headbands can be that perfect little something extra for those looking to extend their workouts. Whether in hot or cold weather or putting in extra hours at the gym, headbands work to keep sweat out of an athlete’s eyes as well as protect them from the elements. This, in turn, allows them to focus on their goals without the added distraction of discomfort. Here are some considerations we made when selecting the best in the category.

Sweat Defense

The best headbands will work to wick sweat as effectively as possible. While a more traditional terry cloth or cotton headband may be best to soak sweat up, newer materials like microfiber are designed to circulate air and quick-dry, which provides a long-lasting sweat-fighting capability. As a bonus, sweat-wicking materials can help keep you cool through condensation, which might encourage a longer workout.

Size and Comfort

Most headbands are billed as one-size-fits-all. Generally speaking, this is true to a point (odds are, if you have a larger head, some of the options out there may run tight). Finding a headband with the right stretch and dimensions will help ensure comfort over a longer period of time. Remember, the goal is trying to find a headband that you don’t even notice wearing.

[Related: The 3 Most Common Types Of Training Periodization (And When To Use Them)]

Staying Power

It’s a given that you don’t want your headband to be too tight or too loose, but over time even the best-fitting bands can begin to slip. Finding a headband that will retain its elasticity throughout your workout and beyond is key — it won’t do you any good if your headband stretches out dramatically in the wash. Keep in mind the material’s elasticity, particularly if you plan to wear the headband under a helmet. The added pressure of protective wear can cause the band to shift.

Style

Like all athletic wear, a headband should be something that makes you comfortable to wear and look at. Most brands offer a multitude of color and pattern options. If you can look at all sides of the band before adding it to your cart, that is probably the best play. Some brands tend to position their logos prominently on their headbands which may put some consumers off. 

[Related: The 3 Most Effective Workouts Splits For Strength Training]

What To Consider Before Buying

Don’t settle for an uncomfortable headband. Headbands aren’t the costliest of investments. If you buy one that doesn’t fit your head, don’t settle for it. Keep searching until you find one that is comfortable, effective for your needs, and is aesthetically pleasing to you.

Consider all the applications you can foresee wearing the headband before purchasing. If you are only going to use a headband at the gym, you likely won’t need one built with cold-weather applications. If you’re going to wear a headband to the gym, on a ski trip, and on a hiking expedition, try and opt for a more versatile option.

FAQs

The post The Best Men’s Headbands For Sweat-Wicking, Tennis, and More appeared first on BarBend.