Verdict from 12 experts and 45 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Stable: The Nike Romaleos 4's soles are adequately stiff and wide to provide first-rate stability for weightlifting, according to the majority of users.
- Well-built: A lot of reviewers applaud the shoe's excellent materials and craftsmanship.
- Style: Many buyers love the pair's design and look. One expert even says that it is the most good-looking weightlifting shoe in the market.
- Comfort: The Romaleos 4 is comfortable enough for daily gym use, several users say.
- Breathable: Some wearers laud its adequate amount of airflow.
- Grip: This shoe provides efficient traction, a handful of individuals claim.
1 reason not to buy
- Heel slip: Many individuals notice that they experience slight heel slippage.
Bottom line
The mentioned misfire is reported to be not that bad and tolerable. Overall, the Nike Romaleos 4 is an excellent addition to your rotation.
Tip: see the best weightlifting training shoes.
Good to know
The Romaleos belongs to the heavy-duty line of weightlifting shoes from Nike.
Who is it for? This trainer is meant for intermediate and professional athletes who lift heavy regularly.
What is it good for? As one of the flagship weightlifting models on the market, the shoe is best for Olympic weightlifting exercises: squats, cleans, jerks, and snatches. It is not recommended to use it for cross-training, running, or walking because of the trainer’s rigid construction.
- Two straps. Gone is the single wide strap of the Romaloes 3. It has been replaced with two straps that close in opposing directions on the Romaleos 4. It also ditched the use of Flywire in the lacing system.
- Mesh upper. Instead of leather, the Romaleos 4 features a durable mesh upper.
- Bigger heel cup. The TPU heel now wraps higher up the foot, cupping the bottom of the rearfoot effectively.
- Higher heel counter. The heel counter on the Romaleos 4 has also been redesigned to cover more area to steady the hindfoot.
- Heavier weight. Compared to the Romaleos 3 which was at 380 grams per shoe, the Romaleos 4 comes much heavier at 570 grams per shoe.
Traction. The base of the Nike Romaleos 4 is crafted from a thin layer of rubber. It features a tread pattern that provides an excellent grip on rubber mats and other indoor surfaces.
Stability. The outsole of this weightlifting shoe is designed to be more extensive than the top section of the Romaleos 4. The flared sides and back serve as outriggers, keeping the foot steady when lifting heavy. The broad shape prevents the foot from rolling to its sides or back.
Heel. The rear section of the Romaleos 4 is engineered from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This hard plastic doesn’t compress. So, it doesn’t give in when the wearer is lifting heavy weights.
It is also shaped to cup the rearfoot, preventing heel slippage and extra movements. The transparent look amplifies the overall style of the weightlifting trainer.
Heel lift. The elevated heel puts the wearer’s legs and torso into a more advantageous position during squats, cleans, jerks, snatches
Added steadiness. Inside this Nike weightlifting shoe is a firm removable insert. It is anatomically shaped, meaning the arch section is well-defined. The rigid component aids in keeping the foot steady. Because the insole is not soft, it would cause discomfort if used as a regular workout shoe.
Coverage. An engineered mesh keeps the foot contained in the Nike Romaleos 4. This material is stiffer than regular mesh fabric as it prevents the foot from sliding around.
Lockdown. This lifting shoe employs a traditional lacing system to secure the foot in place. It can be untied to allow the foot to come in and out with ease.
Two straps adorn the midfoot. The one near the toes helps tighten the fit at the midfoot. It goes through the midsole, amplifying the hold on the instep area. Meanwhile, the strap at the top ensures that the foot won’t accidentally slip out of the shoe. The straps lock in opposite directions to provide better foothold and security.
Steadiness. At the back, a TPU counter wraps the heel and extends to the medial side of the shoe. It increases hindfoot security to reduce unnecessary movements.
Reebok Legacy Lifter
There are many similarities between the Legacy Lifter and the Romaleos 4, which include:
- Two straps that close in opposite directions.
- A high solid heel that cups the base of the hindfoot.
- A heel counter that prevents excessive movements of the rearfoot.
However, the upper of the Legacy Lifter is made mostly of leather, giving it that classic look.
Adidas Power Perfect 3
If the Romaleos 4 feels too stiff for your needs, another trainer that received a ton of praises is the Power Perfect 3.
- It uses a combination of leather and mesh, which is responsible for its pliability.
- Its midsole is made from EVA foam, which is less rigid than the TPU heel of the Romaleos 4.
- Unlike the Romaleos 4, the Power Perfect 3 only has a single strap placed at the top, helping secure the instep.
- The Power Perfect 3 is more suited for people who are just starting out in their weightlifting journey.
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