“Are Metcons good for weightlifting?” Yes, Metcons are good for both weightlifting and powerlifting? The IWF has “sponsored” Nike Metcons as being the shoes for weightlifters (International Weightlifting Federation). The function of a metcon (according to the IWF) is to protect the foot of a weightlifter from the hazards of falling weights; something that I can honestly say is truly a hazard. 

What do weightlifting shoes need? 

The purpose of using a dedicated pair of weightlifting shoes is to make sure you have a pair of shoes that have the following characteristics: 

• Firm grip on the floor
• Solid base (sole): Weightlifters require firm or solid bases with which they push off of to generate power. More force through the ground translates into the ability to pull the bar higher. 
• Snug fit (you don’t want your shoes slipping around on your feet): 
• Allowances for ankle mobility: This helps give a weightlifter improved mechanical angles at the bottom of a squat position.

What makes the Metcon a good weightlifting shoe? 

The low cut of the Nike Metcon allows for optimal ankle mobility (which means that it already fulfills one of the requirements of a solid weightlifting shoe). The sole of the Nike Metcon (at least the Metcon 5) features a removable Hyperlift insert that has been said to balance out the cushioning and provide enhanced stability (which means that it fulfills the stability requirement of a weightlifting shoe); it also has firm foam in the heel which adds to the stability as well. The Metcon also has directional traction on the outside of the sole which helps deliver enhanced grip (yet another feature of a good weightlifting shoe delivered by the Metcon). 

Features and Functionality

The Nike Metcon is one of the most functional shoes made for training on the market. While you probably wouldn't want to use them to run long-distances, they work great for workouts that include weightlifting, HIIT, or walking.

Thanks to the heavy duty tread featured on the bottom of these shoes, they work great for any leg day. And, when you're deadlifting, the flat insole helps one feel stable and grounded. The inner arch is rubberized, which helps the shoe give a great deal of traction - something that can be help for sled pushes and pulls.

On those hot summer days, the breathable upper of the shoes help the foot feel cool.

Pros of the Nike Metcon

• All around great shoe for weightlifting: The shoe offers great stability for movement like deadlifting.
• The Nike React foam helps the forefoot have a responsive feel: The forefoot of the shoes also are responsive enough for movements such as double-unders and box jumps.
• The upper has increased durability: Recent models of the shoe have had reworked toe box designs, that have fixed previously held durability issues.
• The upper of the Metcon (recent editions) is very durable: The upper of the Metcon gives a secure and durable feel that allows it to withstand those heavy work out days.

Cons of the Nike Metcon

• Not a good shoe for those with wide feet: Not a great shoe for cross training if you have wide feet. The shoe has a more athletic and slim design, which makes it difficult to wear if you're an athlete that desired more width.
• The heel is blocky: Wouldn't be the most comfortable if the shoe is used for running due to the blocky heel and rigid inner plate. Good thing we're talking about weightlifting shoes here though.

Metcon Reviews

Video credits to Barbend. 

Video credits to How to Beast.