When strength training, your choice of footwear is very important. Wearing the right shoes can add pounds to your lifts and improve your technique, and wearing the wrong shoes may not only decrease your performance but may also lead to injury. If you're looking for a good quality, cheap strength training shoe then Converse Chuck Taylor's are an excellent choice.
Design
Chuck Taylors are made from canvas and have a hard, flat rubber sole, which is ideal for strength training. In order to lift heavy weights with good technique, your feet need to be stable so that you can balance, and the rigidity of Chucks allows you to do this. Running shoes and cross trainers have cushioned and textured soles that can disrupt your balance and stability. The canvas body of Chucks also allows for the foot and ankle movement that occurs during lifting.
Price
Basic Chuck Taylors start at around $30, as of February 2011, with the most expensive pro leather shoes retailing for up to $150. For strength training, a basic shoe is all you need, so look to spend $30 to $50. While all the designs are similar, you may find that a certain style suits your lifting technique better, so opt for the shoe that will enable you to perform at your best.
Powerlifitng
Chuck Taylors have become very popular with powerlifters. Former elite powerlifter Dave Tate believes Converse to be the best shoe for squatting. This is due to their flat soles, but also the structure of the sides. The high-top Chucks have enough flexibility in them to allow for a degree of ankle movement, yet are rugged enough to allow you to push out against them without worrying about rolling your ankle.
Alternatives
There are alternative versions of Converse on the market. Many department stores will stock their own versions, however these can be poorly made and less durable than the official Converse, so make sure that the pair you buy will be suitable for strength training. Many strength trainers also prefer an Olympic style lifting shoe which has a raised heel, and can be useful for squatting and performing Olympic lifts. However, the Chuck Taylor is a far more versatile lifting shoe, and is much better if you're on a budget.
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