Oh, snap. It happened! The day when I watched a talk with Greg Glassman (Founder of CrossFit) and thought to myself, “C’mon, man. Really?” has finally arrived!
Check out this quick 9-second clip where a guest at one of his talks asks about the benefit of lifting shoes. Glassman basically replies with, “Why?”
The discussion I’d like to start here is:
What are your thoughts on lifting shoes? Cheating? Unneccesary? Critical? I’m very curious as to what you all have to say about this.
My answer: Love ’em and the stability they provide in the appropriate setting – Lifting heavy weights on a platform, for example (but I don’t RELY on them). For multi-domain activities (a workout with a run) or in real-life, I have no dependence on them and can move safely and efficiently without them.
Your turn…
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I think they are great and are critical when it comes to heavy lifts where a running shoe or shoe with a soft sole compresses and you could end up rolling an ankle……or just go barfoot.
I guess I will never be as hardcore as Glassman 🙂
I recently picked up a pair of converse that are much better than my old nike frees. I like them because they have the solid sole for heavy lifting and I can also run and jump in them.
What are your thoughts on converse v designated weightlifting shoes in terms of performance and overall bang for buck. Is it worth it to pick up a pair of weightlifting shoes as well or do converse basically do it all? And why?
I think they allow you to build to the next level. That way even when you dont have them on you you are still stronger. My retort would be is it out of line to wear running shoes cuz they make running more efficent? Its like saying Usain Bolts gold medals are a fraud cuz he wore sprinting shoes. I keeping my flats!!!
Clayton,
I think that Converse All-Stars are a great (and very popular) “everything” shoe. They provide a flat and stable sole for weight lifting, and still allow for flexibility for more active events such as running. I think it comes down to your level of interest in specifying. If you really want to Clean and Jerk or Snatch max weight, I am all for getting a pair of lifting shoes. Check out Will’s comment below yours. I agree 10000% with what he wrote.
Will,
YES! I agree with you completely. I Usain Bolt uses shoes to run since that is his career/specialty/etc. “Suzie gym member” doesn’t necessarily WANT to find a “true” one rep max with the assistance of equipment. I think it’s about what your goal is. CrossFitters can still not “Specialize” in Olympic Weight Lifting, but want to improve their strength.
I think the shoes are ok, I approve the use of them, but in no way do I think they’re a necessity. Does that make sense?