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The Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes are Adidas latest weightlifting shoes that feature a BOA dial and many unique features.
Adidas
An upgraded design of the Olympic weightlifting shoe used at the Rio Games, the Leistung 16.II by Adidas is equipped with a lockdown BOA closure system, steel laces, a rearfoot cradle, and a TPU midsole for next-level stability on the heaviest lifts. The 38mm heel height is optimized for Olympic snatch and clean and jerk movements, and a synthetic "Powerweave" upper offers unique comfort and breathability.The German word "Leistung" literally translates to "Performance," and the Leistung 16.II is specifically engineered with the high-performance weightlifter in mind. Foundational strength + comfort + explosiveness.Specifications:Men's Weightlifting Shoes Boa® Closure System + Steel Laces Flat, flexible forefoot for the transmission of power Rearfoot cradle for added stability Breathable Powerweave upper TPU Midsole Support linings at heel + inside cushioning
They are in my hands!Muahahahahaha!When I initially saw these, I immediately wanted them. Granted, they are ugly. AND they are pretty expensive, but that being said, this is the most HIGH TECH WEIGHTLIFTING SHOE EVER
Seriously. If Michael J. Fox had been into weightlifting in Back to the Future, these are the shoes he would have worn. Let’s dig in!
Video Review
Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes Review
These are some of the ugliest weightlifting shoes I’ve seen.
This is my opinion, but the BOA lacing system is awesome in function, but awful in looks. The main part of the shoe that is red isn’t too bad, but the neon pinkish color fabric near the heel is hideous.
I honestly have no idea why they would use the color they did, but if that was a different color I think they would look a lot better.
Outside of the lacing system and pink fabric, I think the shoe looks pretty cool. The hundreds of David’s Star’s spread out across the shoe are weird coming from a German company, but the texture looks cool from a distance (they’re also on the bottom.)
The clear plastic heel adds a nice contrasting touch that I think adds nicely to the overall aesthetic of the shoe.
The shoe is definitely made by a large shoe manufacturer. There are no threads hanging and everything looks perfect and machine made (not always a good thing.)
The main part of the shoe is all one large piece of plasticy material that is stitched once near the heel. This should provide for increased durability over the long haul.
There is a lot of glue used to hold the shoe together although it can’t be seen. Adidas has been making weightlifting shoes for so long that I’m pretty sure they have the process down enough to create a very durable shoe.
The actual height of the heel is higher than both Adidas Adipowers and Nike Romaleo II’s. For me, this is a big plus to the shoe because I have bad ankle mobility. I would compare the height of the heel to that of the Anta Weightlifting Shoes that so many of the Chinese use.
The grip on the bottom of the sole is sufficient for weightlifting use and I found it to be very comparable to that of the Adidas Adipowers.
The shoe is breathable in the toe, however there aren’t many ways for air to escape near the heel part of the shoe, however I didn’t notice any issues with my feet getting hot while using them.
Overall, I think the shoe is constructed very well and should hold up to the rigors of the the punishment that is put on the platform. Even if you’re Jon North (hehe.)
Like I said, the height of the heel is my favorite part of the shoe. It puts me into such a better position for squatting and catching the bar in the clean and snatch than any other weightlifting shoe I’ve worn, except for maybe the Position Blue Suede Shoes.
The shoe is lighter than the Adidas Adipowers and much lighter than Nike Romaleos II (those things are bricks.) I like being nimble on my feet and am glad Adidas decided to make the shoe lighter than the previous versions.
The fit of the shoe is similar the Adipowers. In fact, I would guess they were built on the same last as they are still relatively thin. This suits my foot perfectly, although you with hobbit feet would probably prefer the width of the Romaleos II.
The Boa system is awesome. It looks hideous, but functions better than traditional laces, even ones that have a strap. The ease of use and uniform tightness achieved from the Boa System is better than any other out there. The system also has a lifetime warranty in case for whatever reason it breaks.
Adidas Adipowers vs Adidas Leistung
The Adipowers are some of the best CrossFit shoes. In fact, they’re my daily drivers.
But the Leistung is a superior shoe. No question. The lacing system, the higher heel, the weight. Nearly everything about the shoe excluding the looks is better.
I think it would have been nice to have had a foot strap, but it really isn’t necessary with the BOA lacing system.
I also believe these shoes should prove to be quite durable, however, it will take some time to see that.
Final Thoughts
The Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoe is the best performing shoe I’ve ever used.
Sure, their design isn’t the most sleek, but it’s hard to deny something that is so comfortable, light, and effective as these shoes.
This reminds me of the fight between function and fashion. Weightlifting is a sport where you control very little about the way you look. Your shoes are pretty much the only thing you can control outside of your clothing for some, so I can understand why people truly care how their shoes look.
But, weightlifting is won by the amount of kilos/pounds on the bar, not by how stylish you look.
Pick these bad boys up, you won’t regret it (your wallet might though.)
Full Rating
Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes
The Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes are Adidas latest weightlifting shoes that feature a BOA dial and many unique features.
Product Brand: Adidas
Product Currency: $
Product Price: 134.95
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.3
Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes FAQs
What Adidas are good for lifting?
TheAdidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes is one of the best and most high-tech weightlifting shoes out there. These shoes look amazing and perform well in the gym when training.
Are flat shoes better for lifting?
Simply put, if you’re lifting weights, you shouldn’t be wearing running shoes. When it comes to weightlifting, a weightlifting shoe like theAdidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes or just a flat-soled shoe outperforms a running shoe in every manner.
Are Adidas shoes good for weight lifting?
You’ll need specific weightlifting shoes if you lift weights on a regular basis. The lightweight lifting-specific Adidas squat sneakers offer a seriously durable structure to help you with your workouts.
Where to Purchase
Adidas
An upgraded design of the Olympic weightlifting shoe used at the Rio Games, the Leistung 16.II by Adidas is equipped with a lockdown BOA closure system, steel laces, a rearfoot cradle, and a TPU midsole for next-level stability on the heaviest lifts. The 38mm heel height is optimized for Olympic snatch and clean and jerk movements, and a synthetic "Powerweave" upper offers unique comfort and breathability.The German word "Leistung" literally translates to "Performance," and the Leistung 16.II is specifically engineered with the high-performance weightlifter in mind. Foundational strength + comfort + explosiveness.Specifications:Men's Weightlifting Shoes Boa® Closure System + Steel Laces Flat, flexible forefoot for the transmission of power Rearfoot cradle for added stability Breathable Powerweave upper TPU Midsole Support linings at heel + inside cushioning
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