The 7 Best Weightlifting Shoes For Women [2024 Reviews]

Get pumped for your workout, we examine this year's top weightlifting shoes for women

Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

Whether you’re an beginner or a seasoned pro at weightlifting, then you know need to take care of your feet.

Just about every movement we make is rooted in our feet, that means that you need a stable base that can properly support your arches while being comfortable.

We’ve researched the top women’s weightlifting shoes out there so you can get started right away.

Best Women’s Weightlifting Shoes

Inov-8 Women’s F-lite Cross TrainerReebok Women’s Legacylifter SneakerPUMA Tazon 6 WN’s FM Shoe
editorschoice
Uppers:Textile & SyntheticTextileSynthetic Leather
Sole:SyntheticRubberRubber
Sizes:5 - 115 - 125 - 11
Best For:Weightlifting, Cross Training, CrossfitWeightliftingCross Training, Crossfit, HIIT

For more of my exercise equipment recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Home Gyms, Adjustable Dumbbells, Squat Racks.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Women’s Weightlifting Shoes

  1. Inov-8 Women’s F-lite 275 Cross Trainer
  2. Reebok Women’s Legacylifter Sneaker
  3. PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer Shoe
  4. NOBULL Women’s Training Shoes
  5. Nike Women’s WMNS Metcon 3 Trainers
  6. Reebok Women’s CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Cross Trainer
  7. Adidas Women’s Powerlift 4 Cross Trainer

We’ve reviewed the top rated women’s weightlifting shoes, followed by a comparison table and buying guide to help you decide on a pair that will work best for you.


Women’s Weightlifting Shoe Reviews

Inov-8 Women’s F-lite Cross Trainer at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Textile and Synthetic
  • Sole: Synthetic
  • Sizes: 5 – 11
  • Best For: Weightlifting, Cross Training, Crossfit

As the name states itself, the Inov-8 Women’s F-Lites are some of the most innovative shoes made for women who lift weights.

Coming in either Grey/Black or Red/Coral, you don’t have a lot of choices to choose from, but both look modern and attractive. If you’re looking for a shoe that can take on just about any challenge, then check this pair out.

As the best women’s lifting shoes, you can expect these to be as flexible as they are supportive.

Supposedly made with CrossFit in mind, you’ll have cushy luxury for running and excellent stability for weightlifting and bodyweight exercises.

The Powerflow midsole combined with the Powerheel feature are to blame, keeping your feet properly cushioned while absorbing shock simultaneously. Count on being able to use these for just about any lifting and training environment.

The ROPE-TEC system gives unmatched traction grippy enough to even gain an advantage on rope climbs. The STICKY GRIP rubber outsole will keep you on your feet while doing agility movements, delivering supreme underfoot grip every time.

Running true to size, you’ll receive a particularly roomy toe box allowing for a comfortable toe splay and a heel area to keep you from wobbling around. The shoelaces and upper strap aids with stability, keeping your feet locked in place.


Reebok Women's Legacylifter Sneaker

Reebok Women’s Legacylifter Sneaker at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Textile
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Sizes: 5 – 12
  • Best For: Weightlifting

Designed specifically for weightlifting, the Adidas Women’s Powerlift 4 Cross Trainer is an excellent choice if you’re serious about the sport.

The classic design evokes nostalgia, though we would’ve liked to have seen more color options. The Blue/Gold may seem a bit too retro for some, but the White/Black/Pewter definitely draws attention and goes with just about any outfit.

Made with Olympic weightlifting in mind, you can count on these being a “true” lifting shoe.

In fact, they were actually made with the aid of the USA Weightlifting team’s CJ Cummings, so be prepared for them to deliver real results.

With an effective heel height of .61 inches, you’ll notice they’re elevated to improve your squatting, snatching, and the clean and jerk.

Comprised of a hard TPU, the heel is very lightweight and sturdy to prevent injuries, while the wide platform ensures you deliver maximum performance.

The uppers feature a perforated leather, along with mesh back at the ankle for excellent airflow and comfort. We did feel the to box was a bit stiff but appreciated the durability it provided.

The padded mesh around the ankles and heel help prevent any blisters and discomfort, which make these best women’s weightlifting shoes perfect for long training sessions.

Instead of a single strap, this pair comes with two to give you the most lateral support possible during agility movements and explosive lifts.


PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer Shoe at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Synthetic Leather
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Sizes: 5 – 11
  • Best For: Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT

PUMA is a well-reputed brand known not only for their fashion-forward designs, but for the performance they consistently deliver.

Their Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer Shoe is one of the most versatile when it comes to use and wear. Use it during cross training, Crossfit, or HIIT and you’ll love how they feel.

Use them in the gym or on the street, too, because they look good enough that you won’t want to take them off.

Choose from Blacks and Purples, White/Blue, or White/Fuschia – you’re sure to find something to match your mood.

With the upper made of 100% synthetic leather, these best women’s weight training shoes are made to hold up to the wear and tear you’re bound to put them through.

Not only that, but they’re a nice balance between flexible and sturdy. A TPU shank helps with stability, which is essential when you’re doing cross training.

Perhaps our favorite part of the shoe is the midfoot saddle that gives a smooth fit, along with the EVA heel to prevent fatigue.

Inside, you’ll find an EcoOrthoLite sockliner which helps to create a snug yet comfortable fit, while ensuring breathability so your feet stay dry and never slippery.

The rubber sole is quite grippy, but doesn’t quite have the traction of the Inov-8.


NOBULL Women's Weightlifting Shoes

NOBULL Women’s Training Shoes and Styles at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Synthetic SuperFabric
  • Sole: Synthetic
  • Sizes: 5 – 11
  • Best For: Weightlifting, Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT

Perhaps you’re searching for a model that’s more versatile, that matches your training style. If you want a pair that will perform well during cross training sessions, then take a look at the NOBULL Trainers.

Sure, you may have seen these splashed all over social media, but they’re no gimmick. In fact, they’re often deemed the go-to for CrossFitters.

While they may look a bit different from your typical training shoe, these perform marvelously.

They feature a tough one-piece upper design which is quite distinct from the traditional models which have various patches and whatnot in all types of materials.

From weightlifting to running, the NUBULLs have you covered. Despite being so sturdy, with its seamless construction of SuperFabric, they’re surprisingly lightweight and breathable.

This makes them comfortable even after hours of training, hiking, or whatever else you’d like to use them for. The guard plates give a full 360-degree protection from climbing ropes, pavement, and whatever else you may encounter during training.

If you’re going from heavy lifts to bodyweight movements in a single session, then you’ll absolutely fall in love with these best women’s weight training shoes.

Coming in Sand Camo, Red Alert, Deep Teal, Arctic Heather, Black Ivy, and many more, you’ll also get a wide selection to ensure you pick ones that 100% suit your tastes.


Nike Women’s WMNS Metcon 3 Trainers

Nike Women’s WMNS Metcon 3 Trainers at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Mesh
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Sizes: 5 – 15
  • Best For: Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT

Undoubtedly one of the hugest names in sportswear, Nike always puts out quality products, and their Women’s WMNS Metcon 3 Trainers are exemplary of that.

Coming in almost 30 different colorways, you’ll get to select from combinations like Wolf Grey/Racer Pink, Glacier/Mica Blue, Black/Wolf Grey/Metallic Gold, and so many more.

Each one is very trendy and can be worn just as well in the gym as on the streets or in a restaurant.

The flywire build with flywire technology works to keep your feet in place, while maintaining a good level of comfort, even during high-intensity training.

The dual-density foam midsole aids in keeping you comfy, while providing support during heavy lifts and protecting against any potential injuries.

The mesh upper makes this shoe incredibly lightweight, while letting air go in and out with ease. If you’re going to be wearing these in particularly hot environments, then mugginess should be no issue.

The midfoot features textured rubber wraps which helps extend the life of your shoes while protecting them during rope exercises, while the sticky rubber on the forefoot gives supreme traction so you never slip.


Reebok Women’s CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Cross Trainer at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Synthetic
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Sizes: 5 – 11
  • Best For: Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT

The Reebok CrossFit Nano 8.0 Flexweave is another unique high performer that we couldn’t get enough of.

First off, we loved the fact that it features a completely separate bootie which is 100% independent of the outer part of the shoe.

While it may seem a bit weird at first, it provides you flexibility and comfort that’s nearly impossible to find in other models. You’re not restricted at all in your movements, and everything feels very natural.

However, while it didn’t happen to us, we suppose there’s the possibility of it coming loose. You’ll find a little piece of fabric connecting the booties and the heels, so it would have to break, but it’s possible.

The flexweave material the shoe features in its name is a bit rough, but features a cross-weave design which is super tough but also very flexible.

This provides protection during rope climbs and normal abrasion that you’ll encounter during training.

The toe box is a bit wider than most, which is perfect if your toe splay is wide while doing movements like squats or cleans.

This adds a great amount of stability and sturdiness which will help give you more power while ensuring your safety. The cushioned sole adds a bit of luxury and comfort, too, while ensuring you’re not feeling fatigued during jumps and HIIT.

What’s even better? That you have almost 30 different colorways to choose from, in all kinds of unique shades you’re sure to love.


Adidas Women’s Powerlift 4 Cross Trainer at a Glance:

  • Uppers: Canvas
  • Sole: Synthetic
  • Sizes: 5 – 13.5
  • Best For: Weightlifting

Last but not least, we have the best women’s powerlifting shoes, the Adidas Women’s Powerlift 4 Cross Trainer.

Featuring 100% canvas outer construction, it’s quite a bit different from their previous models, offering much more durability yet keeping in lightweight.

Probably the only real complaint we had with this pair was the lack of breathability. That’s not to say there was absolutely no airflow to speak of, but it could definitely be improved upon.

The style is your traditional powerlifting shoe, which isn’t often seen as the most attractive, but we really loved the Glow Pink/Black colorway that made it look more modern and trendy.

You’ll find a lack of ridges that makes climbing ropes and other tasks easier.

The elevated .6” heel height is due to the high-density EVA foam, which helps greatly in performing certain lifts.

The outsole is also very firm and stable, but unfortunately can slip a bit easily if you’re on a wet surface. It does not have the same grip as most models on our guide.

The foot strap is also made of canvas which adds a greater amount of security, holding your feet in place even when performing explosive lifts. A thick tube-like construction is on the outside of the midfoot to protect the laces, as well.


Women’s Weightlifting Shoes Comparison

Weightlifting ShoesUppersSoleSizesBest ForRating
Inov-8 Women’s F-lite 275 Cross TrainerTextile & SyntheticSynthetic5 - 11Weightlifting, Cross Training, Crossfit4.8 / 5.0
Reebok Women’s Legacylifter SneakerTextileRubber5 - 12Weightlifting4.8 / 5.0
PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM ShoeSynthetic LeatherRubber5 - 11Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT4.4 / 5.0
NOBULL Women’s Training ShoesSynthetic SuperFabricSynthetic5 - 11Weightlifting, Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT4.5 / 5.0
Nike WMNS Metcon 3 TrainersMeshRubber5 - 15Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT4.3 / 5.0
Reebok CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Cross TrainerSyntheticRubber5 - 11Cross Training, Crossfit, HIIT4.5 / 5.0
Adidas Powerlift 4 Cross TrainerCanvasSynthetic5 – 13.5Weightlifting4.8 / 5.0

How to Choose the Best Women’s Weightlifting Shoes – Buying Guide

best women's weightlifting shoes

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read our reviews of women’s weightlifting shoes, which ones will be making their home on your feet? If you’re still on the fence about a product, then that’s perfectly normal. It can be hard to choose when there are so many great options available, but that’s why we’re here.

We’ve decided to take it upon ourselves to write up a comprehensive buying guide, detailing each step of the buying process so that by the end there will be no question as to which is the perfect product for you!

Size

If you don’t have the right size of shoe, then it doesn’t matter how well it performs – it’s not going to work! Make sure you’re 100% certain of your size before you do anything. If you’re unsure, then go get sized or do it yourself.

Also make sure that the shoes you’re getting are for women, or if they’re unisex/for men, then go up 1.5 sizes. Usually manufacturers will list a sizing guide as well, so you can be certain.

Type of Training

What are you planning on using your shoes for? This is obviously relating to weightlifting, but there isn’t just one type of weight training.

You may be literally just focusing on lifting to build mass, or maybe you’re into cross training. While there are shoes that flow perfectly between both activities, some are more ideal for one than the other.

Traditional weight training shoes are going to feature less ridges, a higher heel, straps, and more durable materials for the upper (we’ll go more into that later).

Shoes made for cross training are typically more lightweight, breathable, and feature more protection on the sides to resist abrasion from things like rope climbs.

They’ll also usually have a grippier sole to ensure you’re stable while training, along with more flexibility in the forefoot.

Uppers

best women's weight training shoes
Inov-8 Women’s F-lite 275 (W) Cross Trainer

The uppers of the products we covered above vary widely, as you can see. Let’s take a look at each ones’ benefits and cons.

Synthetic Leather: What’s great about synthetic leather is that it provides just a bit of stretch, without the bigger price tag and increased maintenance. They’re durable, but they don’t usually have any ventilation at all unless it comes with perforations. They’re not very breathable nor lightweight but make for great powerlifting shoes.

Canvas: Canvas is another very durable material that is made to resist abrasion like what you’ll encounter during CrossFit. It works well no matter what the activity is, but often doesn’t allow for great amounts of breathability.

Mesh: Mesh is a material more well-suited towards cross training and HIIT, as it’s so lightweight and breathable. If you’re going to be subjecting it to a good amount of wear-and-tear, then make sure it has some kind of protective rubber or other material so that it doesn’t rip or form holes.

Heel Height

best women's powerlifting shoes

If you’re serious about weightlifting, then you’ll want to pay special attention to the heel of your new shoe. A raised heel plays a huge role in maximizing strength as it places your body in an upright squatting position. Normally, during squatting, your knees are moved forward, with your torso vertical.

With raised heels, the amount of dorsiflexion needed is lowered, meaning you can squat deeper with less effort. While heel heights vary in the aforementioned products, even just a quarter-inch heel raise will provide a huge difference.

Less than .75”: These heels are ideal if you have short legs along with a short torso, have a wide stance, and high flexibility.

.75”: This is considered to be the standard among weightlifters and works well for most. They’re ideal if your torso is longer than your legs, and if you have a good amount of flexibility.

More than .75”: If you have both long legs and torso, or longer legs than your torso, this should be the height to look for. It’s also ideal if you have a low amount of flexibility or a narrow stance.

Shoe Straps

As you can see, many of the models we’ve listed above feature straps. These are typically found in your more traditional-style weightlifting shoes, and not so often in those geared more towards CrossFit or HIIT work. However, you may benefit from them, depending on the kind of training you plan on doing.

Most shoes just have a single strap, but occasionally, you’ll find a pair that comes with dual straps, like Reebok’s Legacy Lifter. Single strap models are usually placed higher up on the shoe to add stability and protection to the ankles.

Dual strap models will have this, along with a lower or midfoot strap which will give you more lateral security which is great for keeping your feet locked in place during explosive movements or agility training.

Cushion

While most of us like the idea of having pillows under our feet as we workout, it’s not always the best idea. Again, this is going to come down to what you’ll be using your shoes for.

If you’re going to be doing some cross training, HIIT, or CrossFit, then chances are you’re going to be doing some type of jogging or jumping around. This is where you’ll want cushion to absorb the impact to prevent injury and fatigue.

In contrast, if you’re really just going to be weightlifting, then you want something very stable and even that has a great amount of sensitivity. Shoes with flat soles are ideal in these cases, so you can use maximum force in your lifts while giving you the confidence and stability you need.

Price

As you may have noticed, the women’s weightlifting shoes vary widely in their prices. The good thing is, that in this case, more expensive doesn’t always equal “better”. You can easily find an excellent pair of shoes for an affordable price.

If you’re just getting into the sport and aren’t sure you’re going to like it, you don’t have to risk spending a lot. However, if you’re going to be taking it on as a long-term hobby or passion, then investing in a more pricey pair may just end up saving you money in the long run.

FAQs About Weightlifting Shoes For Women

Q: How do I know if my shoes fit properly?

A: You should have no more than 1/8” of room between your longest toe and the end of your shoe, with enough width and height to accommodate your feet. You should never feel any pain or discomfort, and your feet should stay in one place as you train.

Q: Why are weightlifting shoes so important?

A: When you’re lifting, your feet play a huge role in everything you do. Having the right shoes on can make or break your lifts and can save you or even cause you injury. A good pair of shoes should work to prevent injury and effectively transfer energy so that you can get the most out of your training and maximize strength.

Q: Can I use my weightlifting shoes for running?

A: We don’t recommend it, for a few reasons. One, is that they’re not going to have the flexibility and traction that you need to stay safe and efficient on your runs. Two, is that they’re not going to be very lightweight in comparison to a proper running shoe, causing you to expend more energy and feel clunky.

Tips To Care For Your Weightlifting Shoes

#1: Remember that leather shoes will generally stretch as you wear them in.
If you plan on purchasing leather, you may want to opt for a half-size smaller. If that’s not something you’re interested in, then simply select a synthetic upper.

#2: If you’re unsure about the heel height you need, go lower.
You can always increase the effective heel height of your shoes be adding in heel lifts or even going to a cobbler to have them adjusted!

#3: Always check to make sure they’re in good condition before you go train.
You want to ensure that the heel is properly connected to the upper, that there are no holes or rips, and that the laces and straps work properly to ensure you’re safe and supported.

Summary

Now that you know just about everything you could ever want to about some good weightlifting shoes for women, which pair is the right one for you? No matter which one you choose, know that you’re receiving one of the best products available today.

However, what’s most important is that you select the model that works best for your body, lifestyle, and goals. We hope that our guide has done exactly that. Thanks for staying tuned in with us, and we’ll see you again soon!

How We Researched

To come up with the top women’s weightlifting shoes, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources


Notice:

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Ericka Parker

Ericka started her career as a personal trainer over 20 years ago and her goal was to help people become healthy, happy and fit. To do this she would find out their goals and provide the tools and routines to help them reach them. As her career progressed, she added yoga training to her skills to help her clients achieve mindfulness and help with clients mobility. To help more people she started bestwomensworkouts.com to help other people achieve their fitness goals with advice, tips and fitness equipment reviews.
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