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Quick answer
Good first lifting shoe, especially for powerlifters. The Powerlift 5 has a modest 15 mm heel, a single strap and a price usually around $110–130. Olympic lifters will want more heel; people with wide feet should look at the Nike Savaleos instead.
Best for powerlifting
Adidas Powerlift 5
- Heel height15 mm (0.59")
- ClosureLaces + 1 strap
- FitNarrow-ish
- Best forBeginners, powerlifting
The Powerlift has been the “first lifting shoe” for a huge number of lifters, and the fifth version doesn’t mess with the formula. You get a firm, lightly raised 15 mm heel, a hook-and-loop strap across the midfoot and a flat, grippy outsole.
It’s often named a top budget or beginner pick in 2026 roundups, including FitnessVolt and Men’s Journal. Where it falls short is heel height: if you’re snatching and cleaning, a 20 mm shoe will feel better.
Pros
- Affordable
- Stable for squats and bench
- Easy to adapt to
Cons
- Lower heel than Olympic lifters
- Narrow-ish fit
Who it's for
It suits powerlifters who squat high-bar or want a stable bench shoe, and it’s a cheap way for beginners to find out whether a raised heel helps them. If you only squat a couple of times a week, it’s plenty of shoe.
Powerlift 5 vs Nike Savaleos
These two are the budget lifters most people end up choosing between. Both have about a 15 mm heel and one strap. The Savaleos has a roomier toe box, which suits wider feet, while the Powerlift runs a bit narrower. Price is usually similar, so pick on fit. See our budget lifting shoe guide for more options.
| Shoe | Heel height | Closure | Best for | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adidas Powerlift 5 | 15 mm (0.59") | Laces + 1 strap | Beginners, powerlifting | $110–130 |
| Nike Savaleos | 15–15.5 mm* | Laces + 1 strap | Beginners, budget | $90–125 |
| Reebok Lifter PR III | 15 mm (0.59") | Laces + strap | Budget, beginners | ~$100 |
| Do-Win Classic Lifter | 19 mm (0.75") | Laces + strap | Budget, lifters who want a stacked leather heel | $95–130 |
Our verdict
A safe, simple first lifter.
If your feet aren’t wide and you mostly squat and bench, the Powerlift 5 is an easy recommendation. If I were buying a first pair tomorrow with narrow-ish feet, this is probably the one I’d grab.
FAQ
What is the heel height of the Adidas Powerlift 5?
About 15 mm (0.59″).
Is the Powerlift 5 good for Olympic lifting?
It works for beginners, but most Olympic lifters prefer a taller 20 mm heel and a stiffer build.
Is the Powerlift 5 good for deadlifts?
It’s better than a cushioned trainer, but a flat shoe is still best for deadlifts.
