What exactly are deadlift slippers?
Deadlift slippers are slippers specifically engineered to make your feet as close to the ground as possible.
Many lifters prefer to wear shoes with thin soles (such as Chuck Taylor’s or wrestling shoes) or even take their shoes off while deadlifting. The reason for this is to minimize the distance between your feet and the ground so as to use that leverage to pull more efficiently.
There’s simply less distance to move the weight when you wear slippers, meaning you can (usually) pull more overall weight. It’s much easier to engage your hamstrings and glutes while deadlifting without bulky shoes on as well.
But, there are some issues with pulling without shoes on. For one, your feet aren’t as good at gripping the floor as shoes or slippers designed for deadlifting. The soles are designed to grip the floor tightly, whereas your feet are not.
There’s also no support whatsoever lifting barefoot. Even if it’s just slippers, I like to have something on my feet while deadlifting. Lastly, it just isn’t practical, especially if you are training in a commercial gym.
Which Should I Choose? Deadlift Slippers or Deadlift Shoes?
The basic concept for deadlift shoes is quite similar to slippers, with a few important differences.
For one, deadlift shoes have much more overall support and stability, especially on the sides. This is important, especially for sumo deadlifts.
According to the powerlifting website Physiqz, when sumo deadlifting with slippers on, “the outward torque of proper form can throw off balance and lead to improper form or a missed lift”. Deadlift shoes provide more ankle stability as there is more padding on the back of the shoe as well.
Looking for some high quality deadlift shoes? Check out this review of the best vegan weight lifting shoes of 2023 here
If you pull conventional, definitely go with deadlift slippers, as there doesn’t really seem to be any drawbacks. Then again, some people just like the added overall support of the standard deadlift shoe, so keep that in mind.
If you pull sumo, the difference between slippers and shoes is much more subjective. There are a couple of factors to consider though:
- If your stance is super wide and your feet point outwards to a large extent, you will probably feel more comfortable in deadlift shoes
- If your stance is narrower and your feet are more forward-facing, you will probably feel more comfortable in deadlift slippers
One benefit of slippers as opposed to shoes is the cost. Deadlift slippers generally cost around $20, whereas deadlift shoes are closer to $100. So, if you try slippers and they don’t work, you haven’t broken the bank.
For a more in-depth take on the subject, please check out Physiqz excellent article here
4 Best Deadlift Slippers of 2023
Best Overall –
LiftingLarge Ground Lock Deadlift Slippers
Material and Feel
This pair of slippers has an aggressive rubber bottom which is excellent at gripping and staying locked to the floor. The soles are 4mm from the ground. Uniquely, it contains two wide, velcro straps to create more lateral support for sumo style deadlifters.
These slippers also feature a covered toe for added shoe strength and stability. The insoles are removable, and you may indeed find it beneficial to remove them so as to get that extra bit closer to the ground. Every millimeter helps!
Bottom Line
The LiftingLarge Ground Lock Deadlift Slippers are awesome. They are unique in providing added support for sumo deadlifters in the form of an added strap and covered toe. Excellent deadlift slippers, especially if you pull sumo!
Best Runner Up –
Strength Shop Riot Deadlift Slippers
Material and Feel
The sole of these slippers stand 2mm from the floor! It’s made out of TPR (thermoplastic rubber). The slippers have a textured rubberized sole which excellently grips the floor, providing great traction while pulling.
The upper part of the slipper is made out of elastic, making it highly breathable and flexible. The thin, breathable insoles are removable. For training purposes, these slippers are quite comfortable and make it feel as if you are barefoot.
Bottom Line
The Strength Shop Riot Deadlift Slippers are an excellent choice. Though not ideal for everyday use, the excellent grip offered by the rubberized sole as well as the overall high quality build of the slipper makes these fantastic for deadlifting.
Alternate Option #1 –
FitKicks Original Minimalist Shoes
Material and Feel
Though these slippers aren’t built specifically for deadlifting, they mimic the exact qualities of a deadlift slipper. The design includes a rubber sole and inner cushion for minimalist-style protection. They are Flex Form which means you can fold them up and throw them in your bag.
There’s a fairly wide protective toe guard and a diagonal grip strap to keep the shoe strapped on. The shoe itself is thin, firm, breathable, and low key.
Bottom Line
The FitKicks Minimalist Shoes function perfectly as deadlift slippers. The strap and toe guard provide a little extra support. These slippers can work for both conventional and sumo pullers.
Alternate Option #2 –
Sanabul Foot Grips
Material and Feel
These slippers, designed for Mixed Martial Arts, have a non-slip rubber bottom which is almost overkill for gripping the floor during deadlifts. No doubt, your feet will stay glued to the ground with these. The material is stretchy with mesh on the sides to air them out a bit.
With no straps included, you just slip them on and off you go. If you prefer higher top slippers, these are an excellent option rather than the standard low-cut ones on this list.
Bottom Line
The Sanabul Foot Grips are another excellent alternative for those who want a higher cut pair of deadlift slippers. The rubber bottoms will keep your feet absolutely glued to the floor for deadlifts.
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