The Perfect Gym Shoe Came Out Over a Century Ago. An Expert Explains Why They’re Still So Good

There’s no mistaking a Chuck Taylor. Whether cut high or low, Converse’s old-school basketball sneaker is as iconic as a Levi’s back pocket or Ralph Lauren polo player.

Converse debuted the Chuck Taylor in 1917 and reportedly controlled up to 80 percent of the basketball-shoe market. Though most consumers forget its long history in athletics, the shoe remains a common sight among at least one sports segment: elite weightlifters.

I asked an expert why.

Nordstrom

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star

Pros

• Zero drop creates a solid platform for static lifts
• Minimal midsole creates easier ground contact
• Cheap and cost effective for budding strength athletes

Cons

• Flat sole can take some time to get used to
• Little medial and lateral support for dynamic exercises
• Some may prefer a higher heel for squats and Olympic weightlifting

• $65.00 at Nordstrom

Stay Grounded

Today’s running shoes feature far more advanced components than the profiles of yesteryear: Soft and technical foams. Durable, breathable uppers. Grippy and lightweight outsole tread patterns. While there’s plenty of benefit to be had with these refined kicks, all that technology isn’t necessarily needed when it comes to lifting weights.

In order to move heavy weight, specifically in the squat and deadlift, you want to push off your platform as efficiently as possible. That can be more of a challenge in highly-cushioned sneakers since you need to fight through the layered midsole before achieving that grounded foot positioning. Chuck Taylors, on the other hand, place you closer to the ground from the start, so there’s little wasted energy as you lock out your big set.

The flat nature of a Chuck Taylor outsole can also benefit your grounded footing in these exercises. There’s more contact with the platform or flooring itself, which helps create a more stable stance where you need it most.

Room to Spare

The canvas upper of Chuck Taylors can create an appealing support system, as well. With the high-top version, the canvas covers the ankle for a little more rigidity, which can be appealing for avid squat enthusiasts. Secondly, canvas is pliable, which can help you get a more comfortable footing.

“It’s good that you can move your foot within the shoe,” says Todd Hamer, general manager at Union Fitness and former Division 1 strength and conditioning coach. “When you get under a heavy load, the foot will tend to flatten out.”

Mental Lift

There’s also a psychological aspect to working out in Chuck Taylors that can help you get into the right training mindset, says Hamer. If you start to associate the unique look and feel of the shoe with lifting weights, you can experience what he calls a “go-time boost.”

Utilizing this mental tool could be the key to getting you to a new PR or through a lingering sticking point. “Put that Chuck on, you know,” Hamer says. “You’re ready to train.”

Nordstrom

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star

• $65.00 at Nordstrom

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