Clueless: Question(s) about weightlifting shoes

[Ryan Rhodes]

I've been looking into getting a pair for a while. From what I've heard, the old Adidas Adistar II shoes were and are still are some of the best you can buy, so if I do buy anything, it will be them. My question is this- do they really help all that much with overheads/squatting etc., and in what way (if they do indeed help)? Also, if I wear a size 14-15 shoe, what size should I order? I've always just used stiff leather walking shoes or all-stars in the past. What makes lifting shoes more adept for lifting than my other shoes? Thx-

[Mac Smith]

I just got my first pair recently. Initially they didn't help me with my pressing or squatting. I didn't realize how far forward I was. With that I mean, I was pushing off my toes on my events instead of off my heels. The shoes really make you focus on pushing from your heals. Since learning to do this, my lifts are really starting to improve. Especially my front squat. I also wear a size 15 shoe, but I ordered a size 14 because my feet are relatively narrow. They work great and fit perfectly. Hope this helps dawg!

[MarkSikora]

Ryan,

My expericence (or lack thereof) is similar to Mac's. I got some awhile ago and tried them out a little.

Front squats: definately help w/ the motion and feeling stable.

overheads: did not see/feel much difference. If anything, they made me feel like I was going too far forward, esp. w/ a log.

I have not really gave them a shot w/ stones yet, I know some people like them for that too. I usually use hiking boots, I need all the height I can get!!!

I am going to give them another shot w/ overheads starting this week I think. I will let you know how that goes. I usually overhead in my Chuck Taylors so....the solid feel is pretty similar, just no heel.

I am interested to hear other peoples opinons on the oly shoes w/ overheads too. yeah, yeah, I know the best o/h in the world, oly lifters, use them but how about other guys/gals, have they helped you personally???

thanks

see ya

Mark

oh yeah, nice new avatar too. If I can print it up, I will show it to all the "girls" next door at work. They love big burly manly men.

[Scott Porter]

I love them for my OHP stuff. They give me great stability and leg drive.

[Kevin McNease]

I wear them for all overhead, squats, and cleans. A must-purchase, IMO.

Kevin

[Jared Enderton]

When I first went to an Olympic style weightlifting coach about 7 months ago....he had about 30 pairs of shoes.... And it is required that you wear a pair.... he is for them 100%... and I am too.... After I would lift there... I would come back home(2 hour drive weekly) and lift in my regular shoes... and get soo frusterated because I would go on my toes on snatches and front squats and I just felt off balance... Then I'd go back there with those shoes and feel awesome... So I bought a pair and haven't put in a workout without them on yet... I, too, feel they are a must.

[Daniel Leib]

I've used the Ironwork II, they worked quite well for me on overhead lifting and squatting.

They give you better leverage and decrease the need for dorsiflexion/knee flexion.

-Dan