Name: Powerlift 5
Brand: Adidas

Why We Trust It

Adidas has decades of heritage in weightlifting footwear. The Powerlift 5 uses a proven 15mm raised heel, flat sole, and metatarsal strap for stability — all at a price point that makes dedicated lifting shoes accessible.

Pros

15mm raised heel hits the sweet spot for most squatters
Excellent price — roughly half the cost of premium lifting shoes
Completely flat, rigid sole provides a stable base for heavy lifts
Lightweight canvas upper keeps the shoe breathable
Metatarsal strap adds midfoot security

Cons

Canvas upper is less durable than leather or synthetic premium options
Toe box may feel narrow for wider feet
Not versatile enough for dynamic or plyometric movements

Our Review

The Lifting Shoe That Makes Sense for Most Lifters

Not everyone needs a $200 weightlifting shoe with a wooden heel. For the majority of lifters who squat, press, and occasionally clean, the Adidas Powerlift 5 provides everything you need at roughly half the price of premium options like the Adidas Adipower or Nike Romaleos.

The Heel

The Powerlift 5 features a 15mm raised heel, which is lower than the 20mm+ heels found on dedicated Olympic weightlifting shoes. For most squatters — particularly those doing low-bar or hybrid-style squats — 15mm is actually the sweet spot. It provides enough ankle dorsiflexion assistance to hit depth without drastically altering your squat mechanics. If you are a dedicated Olympic lifter who needs maximum depth in the snatch, you may want the higher heel of the Adipower. For everyone else, 15mm works.

Stability and Fit

The sole is completely flat and rigid — there is zero compression or cushioning, which is exactly what you want under a heavy barbell. The canvas upper is lightweight and breathable, with a single metatarsal strap across the midfoot that adds lateral stability. It is not as locked-down as the double-strap Adipower, but it provides enough security for heavy lifts.

The fit runs true to size for most people, though those with wider feet may find the toe box slightly narrow. Adidas offers both regular and wide widths on some colourways.

Versatility

While dedicated lifting shoes, the Powerlift 5s are flat and stable enough to use for general gym work beyond just squats. They work well for leg press, standing presses, rows, and any movement where a stable base matters. They are not ideal for running or box jumps — the rigid sole makes dynamic movements uncomfortable.

Build Quality

The canvas upper and synthetic materials are durable enough for regular gym use, but they are not in the same league as the leather and synthetic construction of the Adipower or Romaleos. For the price, the build quality is appropriate. Expect them to last 2-3 years of regular training before the sole shows significant wear.

The Bottom Line

The Powerlift 5 removes the price barrier to lifting shoes. If you have been squatting in running shoes or Converse and want to try a proper lifting shoe, this is where to start. The 15mm heel, flat sole, and midfoot strap deliver the essentials without the premium price tag.