Best Black Friday Fitness Equipment Deals See Deals
Best Black Friday Treadmill Deals See Deals
Best Black Friday Rowing Machine Deals See Deals
  • Best-in-Class Equipment
    • See All Roundups
    • Best Adjustable Dumbbells
    • Best Budget Home Gym Equipment
    • Best Cross-Training Shoes
    • Best Dumbbells
    • Best Exercise Bikes
    • Best Home Gym Machines
    • Best Kettlebells
    • Best Olympic Barbells
    • Best Rowing Machines
    • Best Squat Racks
    • Best Supplements
      • Best BCAA
      • Best Creatine
      • Best Greens Powder
      • Best Pre-Workout
      • Best Protein Powder
    • Best Treadmills
    • Best Weighted Vests
    • Best Weightlifting Shoes
    • Best Weight Benches
  • Reviews
    • See All Reviews
    • Barbells
    • Bodyweight
    • Certification Courses
    • Conditioning
    • Gym Accessories
    • Nutrition
    • Recovery
    • Rigs and Racks
    • Shoes
    • Strength Equipment
    • Support Gear
    • Technology
    • Training Programs
    • Weight Plates
  • Comparisons
    • See All Comparisons
    • Best Peloton Alternatives
    • Home Gym vs Gym Membership
    • Peloton Bike vs Bike Plus
    • PowerBlock vs Bowflex
    • Rogue Echo Bike vs Assault Air Bike
    • Rogue Ohio Power Bar vs Texas Power Bar
    • Tonal vs Tempo
  • Black Friday Deals
    • See All Black Friday Deals
    • Best Black Friday Supplement Sales (2025)
    • Peloton Black Friday Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Sauna Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Treadmill Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Rowing Machine Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Dumbbell Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Elliptical Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Exercise Bike Deals (2025)
    • The Best Massage Gun Black Friday Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Deals for Runners (2025)
  • Coupons
    • Holiday Sales
    • Military Discounts
    • See All Coupons
      • Bells of Steel Coupons
      • REP Fitness Coupons
      • Rogue Fitness Coupons
      • Titan Fitness Coupons
      • Concept2 Coupons
      • Plunge Coupons
  • Equipment
    • Browse Gym Equipment
    • See All Equipment
    • Apparel
      • Shoes
        • Running Shoes
        • Training Shoes
        • Weightlifting Shoes
    • Strength Equipment
      • Barbells
      • Benches
      • Dumbbells
      • Glute Ham Developers (GHD)
      • Kettlebells
      • Rigs and Racks
      • Strength Machines
      • Weight Plates
    • Conditioning
      • Core and Stability
      • Endurance
        • Air Bikes
        • Ellipticals
        • Exercise Bikes
        • Rowing Machines
        • Treadmills
      • Jump Ropes
      • Strength Conditioning
    • Bodyweight
      • Climbing Ropes
      • Grip
      • Gymnastics
      • Pull-Up Systems
      • Training Equipment
    • Support Gear
      • Belts
      • Hand Protection
      • Mobility & Recovery
      • Straps & Wraps
      • Training Apparel
    • Gym Accessories
      • Flooring
      • Storage
    • Supplements
    • Technology
    • Training Programs
  • Home Gym Resources
    • See All Home Gym Resources
    • Calculators
    • DIY Guides
    • Equipment Guides
    • Gym Tours
    • Spotlight
    • Workout Guides
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Experts
    • GGR Fitness Equipment Testing Methodology
      • How We Test Ellipticals
      • How We Test Smart Home Gym Equipment
      • How We Test Smith Machines
      • How We Test Dumbbells and Adjustable Dumbbells
      • How We Test Barbells
      • How We Test Weight Benches
      • How We Test Treadmills
      • How We Test Saunas
      • How We Test Kettlebells and Adjustable Kettlebells 
      • How We Test Exercise Bikes
      • How We Test Cold Plunges
      • How We Test Massage Chairs 
      • How We Test Functional Trainers
    • GGR Supplement Testing Methodology
      • How We Test Pre-Workout Supplements
      • How We Test Creatine
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

Search

Sign Up

Log In

  • Best-in-Class Equipment
    • See All Roundups
    • Best Adjustable Dumbbells
    • Best Budget Home Gym Equipment
    • Best Cross-Training Shoes
    • Best Dumbbells
    • Best Exercise Bikes
    • Best Home Gym Machines
    • Best Kettlebells
    • Best Olympic Barbells
    • Best Rowing Machines
    • Best Squat Racks
    • Best Supplements
      • Best BCAA
      • Best Creatine
      • Best Greens Powder
      • Best Pre-Workout
      • Best Protein Powder
    • Best Treadmills
    • Best Weighted Vests
    • Best Weightlifting Shoes
    • Best Weight Benches
  • Reviews
    • See All Reviews
    • Barbells
    • Bodyweight
    • Certification Courses
    • Conditioning
    • Gym Accessories
    • Nutrition
    • Recovery
    • Rigs and Racks
    • Shoes
    • Strength Equipment
    • Support Gear
    • Technology
    • Training Programs
    • Weight Plates
  • Comparisons
    • See All Comparisons
    • Best Peloton Alternatives
    • Home Gym vs Gym Membership
    • Peloton Bike vs Bike Plus
    • PowerBlock vs Bowflex
    • Rogue Echo Bike vs Assault Air Bike
    • Rogue Ohio Power Bar vs Texas Power Bar
    • Tonal vs Tempo
  • Black Friday Deals
    • See All Black Friday Deals
    • Best Black Friday Supplement Sales (2025)
    • Peloton Black Friday Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Sauna Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Treadmill Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Rowing Machine Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Dumbbell Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Elliptical Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Exercise Bike Deals (2025)
    • The Best Massage Gun Black Friday Deals (2025)
    • Best Black Friday Deals for Runners (2025)
  • Coupons
    • Holiday Sales
    • Military Discounts
    • See All Coupons
      • Bells of Steel Coupons
      • REP Fitness Coupons
      • Rogue Fitness Coupons
      • Titan Fitness Coupons
      • Concept2 Coupons
      • Plunge Coupons
  • Equipment
    • Browse Gym Equipment
    • See All Equipment
    • Apparel
      • Shoes
        • Running Shoes
        • Training Shoes
        • Weightlifting Shoes
    • Strength Equipment
      • Barbells
      • Benches
      • Dumbbells
      • Glute Ham Developers (GHD)
      • Kettlebells
      • Rigs and Racks
      • Strength Machines
      • Weight Plates
    • Conditioning
      • Core and Stability
      • Endurance
        • Air Bikes
        • Ellipticals
        • Exercise Bikes
        • Rowing Machines
        • Treadmills
      • Jump Ropes
      • Strength Conditioning
    • Bodyweight
      • Climbing Ropes
      • Grip
      • Gymnastics
      • Pull-Up Systems
      • Training Equipment
    • Support Gear
      • Belts
      • Hand Protection
      • Mobility & Recovery
      • Straps & Wraps
      • Training Apparel
    • Gym Accessories
      • Flooring
      • Storage
    • Supplements
    • Technology
    • Training Programs
  • Home Gym Resources
    • See All Home Gym Resources
    • Calculators
    • DIY Guides
    • Equipment Guides
    • Gym Tours
    • Spotlight
    • Workout Guides
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Experts
    • GGR Fitness Equipment Testing Methodology
      • How We Test Ellipticals
      • How We Test Smart Home Gym Equipment
      • How We Test Smith Machines
      • How We Test Dumbbells and Adjustable Dumbbells
      • How We Test Barbells
      • How We Test Weight Benches
      • How We Test Treadmills
      • How We Test Saunas
      • How We Test Kettlebells and Adjustable Kettlebells 
      • How We Test Exercise Bikes
      • How We Test Cold Plunges
      • How We Test Massage Chairs 
      • How We Test Functional Trainers
    • GGR Supplement Testing Methodology
      • How We Test Pre-Workout Supplements
      • How We Test Creatine

Home » Review » Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes Review

In-Depth Reviews

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes Review

1
Written by Coop Mitchell
1
Coop Mitchell

Cooper Mitchell (“Coop’) is the creator of Garage Gym Reviews. He’s produced more content on home gyms and training equipment than likely anyone else in the world and is recognized as the foremost expert in the space. When not writing about barbells, squat racks, and other pieces of equipment, he can be found eating tacos and reading biographies on dead people. Coop has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Art of Manliness, Starting Strength, Men’s Health, Business Insider and many others.

View Profile
Updated on June 20, 2023
Updated on June 20, 2023

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures

The Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes are Adidas latest weightlifting shoes that feature a BOA dial and many unique features.

Adidas

Adidas Leistung 16 ii Weightlifting Shoes

product image
Check Price

Product Highlights

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.

Pros & Cons

Bottom Line

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

red Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes

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.)

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes

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.

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes heels

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.

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes vs adidas adipowers

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.

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting shoes construction

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.)

coop wearing the Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes while performing a front squat

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

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

Editor's Rating:
4.3

Adidas Leistung 16 ii Weightlifting Shoes

Construction – 4.5
Appearance – 4.25
Weight – 4.5
Dial System – 4.25
Value – 3.75
GET Adidas Leistung 16 ii Weightlifting Shoes ($134.95)

Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes FAQs

What Adidas are good for lifting?

The Adidas 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 the Adidas 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

Adidas Leistung 16 ii Weightlifting Shoes

product image
Check Price

Product Highlights

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.

Pros & Cons

Bottom Line

Coop Mitchell

Coop Mitchell

GGR Founder

About Author

Cooper Mitchell (“Coop’) is the creator of Garage Gym Reviews. He’s produced more content on home gyms and training equipment than likely anyone else in the world and is recognized as the foremost expert in the space. When not writing about barbells, squat racks, and other pieces of equipment, he can be found eating tacos and reading biographies on dead people. Coop has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Art of Manliness, Starting Strength, Men’s Health, Business Insider and many others.

Further Reading

Survey: Top 10 Annoying Behaviors That Are Grinding Gymgoers’ Gears

Survey: Top 10 Annoying Behaviors That Are Grinding Gymgoers’ Gears

What are the most annoying gym habits? Our survey of 2,000 people reveals what irks gym-goers the most.
Read More
Best Budget Rowing Machine (2025): The Best You Can Buy For $1,000 Or Less

Best Budget Rowing Machine (2025): The Best You Can Buy For $1,000 Or Less

Budget is not always synonymous with quality. But in our guide to the best budget rowing machines, you’ll find that our picks are the exceptions.
Read More
8 Recumbent Bike Benefits and Expert Advice

8 Recumbent Bike Benefits and Expert Advice

Our experts dig into the top recumbent bike benefits as well as what you should consider if you are thinking of using one.
Read More
Best Clear Whey Protein Drinks (2025): Our 6 Favorites After Extensive Testing

Best Clear Whey Protein Drinks (2025): Our 6 Favorites After Extensive Testing

An emerging category, clear whey turns a protein shake on its head. Here are the best clear whey protein drinks.
Read More

On This Page

Video Review
Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes Review
Adidas Adipowers vs Adidas Leistung
Final Thoughts
Full Rating
Adidas Leistung Weightlifting Shoes FAQs
Where to Purchase

Connect With Your Community

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • https://www.google.com

Get the Latest Reviews & Updates

  • About
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Expert Panel
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Contact
  • Do Not Sell My Info
Reviews
  • MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Review (2025): A Compact and Affordable Option

  • Evolve Plant-Based Protein Shake Review (2025): Is This Low-Calorie Pea Protein Worth the Price?

  • Huel Ready-to-Drink Review (2025): Can This RTD Really Replace A Meal?

  • C4 Ultimate Shred Review (2025): Is This Fat-Burning Pre-Workout Worth It?

  • Almost Heaven Morgan Barrel Review (2025): A Sleek Barrel Sauna Built for Four

Equipment
  • Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes (2025): Top Picks from Certified Personal Trainers

  • Best Folding Exercise Bikes (2025): Compact and Lightweight Bikes for Small Spaces

  • After Testing More Than 50, We Found The 10 Best Folding Treadmills for Your Home (2025)

  • Best Quiet Treadmills (2025): 7 Peaceful Options for Keeping the Right Pace

  • Best Dumbbells of 2025: Top Picks From Fitness Experts After Thousands of Curls and Presses

Guides
  • Infrared Saunas Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Break a Sweat With Confidence

  • The Ultimate Sauna Guide: Expert Tips on Benefits, How to Use, and More

  • What Foods Have Probiotics? Colon-Ize Your Plate with Help From a Dietitian

  • Home Gym Con 2025 Recap: The New Equipment We’re Most Excited About

  • Tariffs Affecting Gym Equipment Prices (2025)

DIY
  • Your Expert Guide to Making Budget-Friendly DIY Ankle Weights  

  • Homemade Protein Powder: The Right Whey to Do Home-Cooked Protein

  • Building a DIY Rowing Machine: How to, Why, and Should You?

  • Try These DIY Cold Plunge Ideas To Jump-Start Your Recovery 

  • DIY Mass Gainer: You Make the Shake, and Your Body Makes the Muscle

The Most Trusted Voice in Fitness

© Garage Gym Reviews 2023 | All Rights Reserved.

GGR

  • About
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Expert Panel
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Contact
  • Do Not Sell My Info

The Most Trusted Voice in Fitness

© Garage Gym Reviews 2025 | All Rights Reserved.

Reviews
  • MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Review (2025): A Compact and Affordable Option
  • Evolve Plant-Based Protein Shake Review (2025): Is This Low-Calorie Pea Protein Worth the Price?
  • Huel Ready-to-Drink Review (2025): Can This RTD Really Replace A Meal?
  • C4 Ultimate Shred Review (2025): Is This Fat-Burning Pre-Workout Worth It?
  • Almost Heaven Morgan Barrel Review (2025): A Sleek Barrel Sauna Built for Four
Equipment
  • Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes (2025): Top Picks from Certified Personal Trainers
  • Best Folding Exercise Bikes (2025): Compact and Lightweight Bikes for Small Spaces
  • After Testing More Than 50, We Found The 10 Best Folding Treadmills for Your Home (2025)
  • Best Quiet Treadmills (2025): 7 Peaceful Options for Keeping the Right Pace
  • Best Dumbbells of 2025: Top Picks From Fitness Experts After Thousands of Curls and Presses
Guides
  • Infrared Saunas Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Break a Sweat With Confidence
  • The Ultimate Sauna Guide: Expert Tips on Benefits, How to Use, and More
  • What Foods Have Probiotics? Colon-Ize Your Plate with Help From a Dietitian
  • Home Gym Con 2025 Recap: The New Equipment We’re Most Excited About
  • Tariffs Affecting Gym Equipment Prices (2025)
DIY
  • Your Expert Guide to Making Budget-Friendly DIY Ankle Weights  
  • Homemade Protein Powder: The Right Whey to Do Home-Cooked Protein
  • Building a DIY Rowing Machine: How to, Why, and Should You?
  • Try These DIY Cold Plunge Ideas To Jump-Start Your Recovery 
  • DIY Mass Gainer: You Make the Shake, and Your Body Makes the Muscle