Position P3 Weightlifting Shoes

Do you value form over function? Do you like modern aesthetics and synthetic materials? If so, move *directly* along to something from Adidas, Nike or Reebok, because this is not the Olympic Weightlifting shoe for you. Position Shoes are hated by virtually every Olympic Weightlifter that’s never stuck their foot in one, and attempted a lift. I’ve heard all sorts of reasoning; poor build quality on prior models, ugly colorways, etc. Since I care very little (see; not at all) for how I look in training, or in competition, and care even less how others view my sense of style (there’s very little), I really only evaluate products on their effectiveness as a *tool* in my efforts to lift the biggest total that I’m capable of. These shoes *DO EXACTLY THAT*! Also, their logo is Hercules wearing the pelt of the Nemean lion, that’s pretty damn cool. I’m nearly sold on that, alone. Why do I really like them?

The Good; This is the closest thing to a premium Olympic Weightlifting shoe that is currently in production by any manufacturer. The upper is constructed of suede, while the lower is treaded in tacky gum rubber, and heeled with a 1″ wedge of black finished hard wood. The stitching is – in my experience – durable and robust. The blue and white colorway is, in my opinion, not harsh on the eyes. I do like it. The shoe is 100% serviceable, you can take it to a cobbler and they will be able to fix it, just like a nice pair of dress shoes – drop them off with your Allen Edmonds’ and both will come back ready for more life. I’ve never felt more adhered to the platform in another pair of lifters. It almost feels magnetic, unintentional movement in these shoes just does not happen. They are a bit heavier than other lifters, but they’re also not made of plastic/vinyl.

The Bad; The P3 model could use thicker tread, they became smoothed out in a little over a year.

The Takeaway; I was incredibly impressed with the P3, from a utilitarian and a value standpoint. Adidas, Nike, and Reebok sell – essentially – plastic weightlifting shoes that probably cost $3-5 to make, and then they sell those for upwards of $200. That is highway robbery. These shoes are made with suede, natural wood, and natural gum rubber. This is an authentic Olympic Weightlifting shoe, by traditional standards, and is so overlooked it is laughable. This is a phenomenal shoe.