Sabosim Deadlift Shoes Longevity and Grip Review
I have been using the Sabosim deadlift shoes for about six months now and I wanted to post a longevity and grip review. I pull conventional and I have found the grip on these to be superior to any other shoe I have tried. They really bite into the carpet or the platform.
The longevity is what I am most impressed with so far. I train four days a week and the straps and the sole are still in great condition. I was worried that the thin material would rip but it has held up against some very heavy loads. I find the ankle strap really helps me feel secure during the setup.
Does anyone else find that they run a bit small? I am in Canada and I had to order mine from a specialty shop and the sizing was a bit tricky. If you are looking for a dedicated deadlift shoe that will last more than a few months I highly recommend these.
Cheers for the review, PowerLiftingPhil! Six months is a good run. Have you noticed any specific wear points yet, particularly around the edges of the sole or the upper material? Also, how's the grip performing on different gym floor types?
I've been eyeing these Sabos for a while. 'Superior grip' is a strong claim, which is exactly what I need. My current flat-soled trainers feel like ice skates sometimes. Do you find the grip consistent even with a bit of chalk dust on the platform?
Superior grip indeed! I switched from Vans and it was night and day. My feet feel glued. Best investment for my pulls. No more sliding when setting up.
Sabosim are the GOAT for deadlifts. Period.
Anyone got info on sizing? I'm usually a 10.5 in Nike, should I size up or down for Sabosim?
@PrinceVegeta, glad to hear that! Durability on the upper was my main concern with how thin they look. Good to know they hold up.
I tried them but found them a bit too stiff for my liking. Plus, they're not exactly cheap. My Chuck Taylors do the job just fine for a fraction of the price. Is the extra grip really worth it for everyone?
@FlexiBoy, I found them true to size. If you're 10.5 in Nike, go for a 10.5 in Sabosim. They fit snugly but not uncomfortably. Don't size up.
How's the sole thickness feel? Is it truly minimal, or is there a bit of cushioning? I want to feel as close to the floor as possible.
I pull sumo and the wide, flat sole is perfect for spreading my stance without feeling like my feet are rolling. Conventional pullers might not notice the same benefit, but for sumo, they're elite.
The mechanical advantage gained from optimal foot contact and stability is often underestimated. Sabosim shoes address this critical interface, translating to more efficient force transfer. It's not just 'grip', it's systemic stability.
Took the plunge and bought them after debating for months. My deadlift PR jumped by 10kg in two weeks. Coincidence? Maybe. But I felt so much more connected to the floor. No regrets.
This thread makes me want to buy a second pair just in case they stop making them.
Am I the only one who finds them a bit uncomfortable? The strap digs into my foot sometimes, and the toe box feels a bit cramped. Maybe I have weird feet.
@FinickyFeet, interesting! Did you try adjusting the strap? Sometimes a slight change in tension makes a world of difference. Or maybe sizing up half a size could help with the toe box?
I agree with @FinickyFeet, the toe box is definitely snug. I have wider feet and had to go up a half size, which then made the length a bit much. A minor gripe for an otherwise great shoe, though.
@WideFootWarrior, that's fair. I have narrower feet so it works for me, but I can see how it'd be an issue for others. It's a very specific fit.
For those who've had them for a while, how do you clean them? Just a quick wipe down or anything specific to keep the sole grippy?
@CleanLifts, I just wipe mine down with a damp cloth after every few sessions. Keeps the sole free of dust and chalk buildup, maintaining that grippy feel. Nothing fancy needed!