United Barbell

Last week we discussed optimal footwear for weightlifting. Since many of you were rocking some heavy lifts yesterday, I’d like to talk about the “big lifts” of power lifting today – the back squat and the dead lift.

So what shoes do people wear in power lifting? The consensus among the athletes is that it varies, but the most popular is a shoe from the streets – Chucks.

The humble Chuck Taylor

... and here is why:

The Flat Sole

Especially for the dead lift, you want your feet to have a flat, solid connection to the ground. Unlike weightlifting, back squats for power lifting have a shallower finish and a more vertical shin position, so no heel is required to maintain proper positioning. Some lifters, however, still prefer a small heel.

The vertical shin position of a powerlifting back squat

Traction

Heavy duty, low bar back squats require a wider stance than in a high bar back squats. As you squat, you must exert force down and out through your feet to maximize both power and support. Wearing flat shoes with traction allow you to do so without the shoe losing contact with the ground, allowing for maximum force.

The High Top

Whether or not you should wear a high top shoe is more of a personal preference. A high top shoe allows for more ankle support for moving heavy weights. This is a specific need for power lifting, since weightlifting style squats require your knees to come further over your toes, requiring more ankle movement and flexibility.

Gerard doesn't let the wrong shoes stop him from lifting man-sized weight

Next week - the runners!