When should I consider weight lifting shoes?

These shoes are helpful when becoming more serious about the sport of weight lifting.

There are some distinct advantages that these specialized shoes have over regular athletic shoes:

Weight lifting shoes have less cushioning than running or cross-training shoes. This is important because when the shoe lacks a firm base to push from force is dissipated through the cushion and reduces the ability to lift more weight.

Another advantage is that there is a raised heel allowing greater ankle range of motion. This allows the lifter to go deeper into the movement activating more musculature for the lift. It also allows for a more upright posture which helps maintain control of the barbell.

Examples of lifts that may be performed are squats, deadlifts, cleans, and the snatch.