Luxiaojun Shoes

Getting the Perfect Pair for Your Training Needs

Luxiaojun shoes have become a top choice among weightlifters and fitness enthusiasts looking for a high-quality lifting shoe. With their durable construction and signature elevated heel, Luxiaojun shoes provide stability and support for heavy lifts like squats, cleans, and snatches.

But with several styles and design options to choose from, picking the right Luxiaojun shoe for your needs can get confusing. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through what makes Luxiaojun shoes unique, key features to look for, and tips for getting the perfect pair for your training.

What are Luxiaojun Shoes?

Luxiaojun is a Chinese athletic footwear brand known primarily for their specialized weightlifting shoes. Founded in 1993 by former Chinese weightlifting champion Liao Hui, Luxiaojun brings over 25 years of weightlifting expertise into their shoe designs.

The brand name Luxiaojun combines Liao Hui’s first name, Luxiao, with jun, the Chinese word for army. This nods to Liao Hui’s background training in the Chinese army athletics program as a national team weightlifter in the 1980s.

Luxiaojun shoes stand out for their:

• Weightlifting-specific features – Raised heel, sturdy midsole, anti-slip rubber outsole.
• Premium materials – Genuine leather uppers, molded EVA heel.
• Chinese manufacturing – Many shoes still made in China.
• Affordable pricing – Mid-range models $60-$120 USD.
• Endorsements – Worn by top weightlifters globally.

While designed with Olympic weightlifting in mind, Luxiaojun shoes have gained a following among CrossFit athletes, powerlifters, and casual fitness enthusiasts for their performance and value.

Are Luxiaojun Shoes for Weightlifting or General Training?

Luxiaojun shoes are optimized first and foremost for the sport of Olympic weightlifting, which consists of the snatch and clean & jerk lifts.

The shoes’ distinct features like a raised heel and rigid midsole provide targeted benefits for lifts where you need to get into a deep squat position under a heavy barbell. The shoes help weightlifters maintain upright torso positioning and ideal form.

However, Luxiaojun shoes can also be great for:

• Powerlifting – The heel lift improves squatting depth and technique. Sturdy construction handles heavy loads.
• CrossFit – All-around performance for Olympic lifts, squats, plyometrics. Lightweight and flexible.
• General training – More stable and supportive than standard athletic shoes for squats, lunges, deadlifts.

While designed for weighting lifting, Luxiaojun shoes can improve performance and form across training styles compared to normal sneakers or bare feet. Just don’t expect as specialized a shoe as true powerlifting or CrossFit footwear.

What Makes Luxiaojun Shoes Unique?

Several signature features make Luxiaojun shoes stand out from other lifting footwear.

Molded EVA Heel

The heel is made of compressed ETHYLENE-VINYL ACETATE (EVA) foam for the perfect combination of comfort, support, and energy return. EVA holds its shape better than rubber over time.

Anti-Slip Rubber Outsole

Strategic rubber traction patterns on the sole improve grip and stability when lifting heavy loads. The outsole won’t easily compress or deform.

Genuine Leather Construction

Luxiaojun uses quality leather for the upper, giving a secure foothold during lifts. Leather molds to your feet for a customized fit over time.

Minimalist Styling

With simple, elegant lines and styling, Luxiaojun shoes look great both in and out of the gym. You can wear them as everyday footwear.

Chinese Manufacturing

Many Luxiaojun models are still made in China, where the brand originated. This allows for quality control and cost savings.

Value Pricing

For the features and materials, Luxiaojun shoes are very competitively priced versus other specialty lifting shoes. Most models cost between $60-$120.

Let’s explore some of these key features in more detail:

The Molded EVA Heel

The EVA heel is really the foundation of any Luxiaojun lifting shoe. It sets the shoes apart in several ways:

• Fixed heel height – The molded construction ensures the heel height stays consistent over time, unlike compressed rubber that can compress and deform.
• Cushioned lift – The EVA foam provides 10-20mm of lift without being overly hard or dense. This makes hitting depth in squats more comfortable.
• Energy return – EVA is resilient and returns energy efficiently. This provides some “pop” out of the bottom of squats or cleans.
• Lightweight – EVA is lighter than rubber, keeping the overall shoe weight low.

For weightlifting, a moderate heel lift of around 0.6 to 0.8 inches helps optimize upright torso positioning in the squat by allowing greater ankle dorsiflexion. This places less stress on the knees and back compared to lifting with a flat foot.

The EVA heel strike the right balance of being firm for support, but with enough shock absorption for heavy training. It will hold its shape consistent over years of use.

Traction and Stability from the Outsole

A quality rubber outsole is also critical on a lifting shoe. The outsole needs to grip the platform firmly without compressing under hundreds of pounds of load.

Luxiaojun outsoles use strategic tread patterns and rubber compounds to optimize traction and stability:

• Anti-slip tread – The tread isn’t overly aggressive, but provides multi-directional grip during lifts.
• Hard rubber – The rubber itself is dense and resists deforming under load. It will maintain shape after heavy use.
• Reinforced toe – Extra rubber layers at the toe prevent premature wear when bumping weights.
• Flat base – The outsole contacts the platform evenly for maximum stability.
• Extended midsole – The midsole rubber wraps up on the sides for footing security when pivoting.

The outsole really ties everything together, letting you transfer force explosively without slipping or losing balance. This inspires confidence when going heavy.

Support and Durability from Leather Uppers

Luxiaojun uses genuine leather for the shoe upper rather than synthetic materials. Leather provides:

• Custom molding – The leather will conform to your feet over time for a personalized fit.
• Lateral stability – Leather offers firmer support when moving side to side compared to mesh or knit uppers.
• Abrasion resistance – Leather holds up well to rope climbs, missed lifts, and abuse during training.
• Secure lacing – The leather eyelets keep laces firmly tied so the shoe stays snug on your feet.
• No break-in required – Quality leather feels comfortable right out of the box.

Leather might add a small amount of weight over synthetic uppers, but the benefits are worth it for stability and durability – critical factors when lifting heavy.

The leather will soften and form to your feet over time, creating a custom fit. While not as breathable as mesh, it allows enough airflow for most training environments.

Luxiaojun Styles and Designs

Luxiaojun has evolved their lineup over 25+ years to offer a range of lifting shoe models:

Original Leather Series

The classic Luxiaojun shoe featuring leather uppers, molded EVA heel, and anti-slip rubber outsole. Models like the A3 provide an excellent starter shoe with timeless styling.

Revolution Series

Luxiaojun’s lightweight CrossFit/WOD model with a flexible sole and upgraded leather panels for high-intensity workouts.

Velcro Series

Perfect for easy on/off, their Velcro strap models like the LV1 help you cinch the shoes tight for heavy lifts.

Weightlifting Comp Series

Top-end shoes designed for competition lifting, like the Luxiaojun M1, with an extra heel lift and ankle strap for maximum support.

Color Series

Fun, vibrant colors and graphics featuring the core Luxiaojun shoe technology. Models like the Luxiaojun Red/Black add personal style.

Casual Series

Fashion and fitness combine in the Luxiaojun casual line. The low-profile outsoles allow for all-day wear.

No matter your training needs, there’s a Luxiaojun shoe that will deliver the right mix of comfort, support, and style.

How Much Do Luxiaojun Shoes Cost?

One of the big appeals of Luxiaojun shoes is that they provide excellent value at relatively affordable price points:

• Entry-level models – The basic Luxiaojun models start around $60 USD. These feature leather uppers, molded EVA heel and quality rubber outsoles. Great for beginners not looking to spend big.
• Mid-range models – The best-selling Luxiaojun shoes fall in the $80-$120 range. Options like the A3, LV1, and Revolution provide the complete lifting shoe package without breaking the bank.
• Competition models – Higher-end shoes designed for competition lifting, such as the M1, cost up to $200. These feature advanced materials and customizable options like taller heel lifts.
• Specialty collaborations – Luxiaojun periodically releases pricier collaborations with athletes/sponsors that can cost $150+. These are limited releases showcasing unique designs.

The good news is that Luxiaojun’s core models have stayed consistently affordable over the years – especially impressive considering many comparable lifting shoes now cost $200+. You get great bang-for-your-buck with Luxiaojun’s Chinese manufacturing.

Where to Buy Luxiaojun Shoes

Luxiaojun weightlifting shoes used to be tricky to find outside of China, but are now readily available worldwide:

• Online at Amazon – This has become the most popular option, with Amazon carrying a huge selection of Luxiaojun models with quick Prime shipping. Be sure to buy from a reputable seller.
• Specialty fitness retailers – Many CrossFit gear suppliers, lifting shoe stores, and athletic footwear sites now stock Luxiaojun. These include Rogue Fitness, Hookgrip, MaxBarbell, and more.
• Direct from Luxiaojun – You can buy direct from Luxiaojun through their official website or AliExpress store. This ensures authenticity, but can take 2-3 weeks to ship.
• Chinese marketplaces – Alibaba, AliExpress or Chinese sites like Taobao are great ways to access Luxiaojun shoes domestically in China. English interfaces make ordering simple.
• eBay sellers – There are several reputable eBay stores that sell Luxiaojun shoes. Prices are competitive but make sure the seller has good feedback scores.
• Local training gyms – Some CrossFit boxes, powerlifting gyms, and training centers sell Luxiaojun shoes onsite or through their own webshops. Ask the owner!

With their growth in popularity, Luxiaojun shoes are now easy to find through major online retailers that offer quick shipping and easy returns. If buying directly from China, expect longer shipping times of 2-3 weeks.

Luxiaojun Shoe Materials

Understanding the materials that go into Luxiaojun shoes helps explain why they perform so well:

• Leather uppers – Most models use genuine leather that molds to your feet. It provides lateral support and stability.
• Molded EVA heel – Compressed EVA foam creates the perfect blend of support and shock absorption. It holds its shape vs. rubber.
• Anti-slip rubber outsole – Strategic rubber placements offer grip without compression or deformation.
• EVA midsole – A firm EVA midsole transfers force efficiently from heel to toe.
• Mesh lining – Breathable interior lining controls moisture and heat build-up during training.
• Reinforced stitching – Tough stitching holds the upper securely to the sole without tearing or damage.
• Antimicrobial insole – Many models use an anti-microbial treated insole to control odors and bacteria.

High-quality materials enable Luxiaojun shoes to strike the ideal balance of comfort, support, stability and durability needed for weightlifting. You know the shoes will hold up well for heavy training rather than packing out or falling apart quickly.

Luxiaojun Shoe Durability

With their premium leather uppers and molded EVA heel, Luxiaojun shoes are designed for durability:

• Leather uppers – The one-piece leather upper avoids separation or tearing that can occur with synthetic overlays or patches.
• Reinforced stitching – Tough nylon stitching around the toe box and sides keeps the upper secured to the sole.
• Abrasion-resistant toe – The rubber toe box withstands abrasion from bumping weights without wearing through.
• Hard rubber outsole – A dense rubber outsole retains its shape after heavy lifting sessions. It doesn’t compress or pack out.
• Compressed EVA heel – The high-density foam EVA heel maintains its lift height even under heavy loads.

While no shoe lasts forever, Luxiaojun owners report getting 1-3 years of consistent use for weightlifting and CrossFit before needing to be replaced. This equals or exceeds similar shoes that can cost $150-$250.

The shoes break-in nicely over time and mold to your feet without losing structural integrity in the heel or upper. With proper care, Luxiaojun shoes provide durable performance for years of hard training.

Heel Lift and Squat Performance

One of the biggest benefits of Luxiaojun shoes is the raised EVA heel that improves squatting mechanics.

The typical heel height in Luxiaojun shoes is around .6″ to .8″ inches (15-20mm). Some competition models offer increased lift up to 25mm+.

This extra heel elevation allows you to squat deeper while keeping your torso more upright by increasing ankle mobility. The shoes shift some of the demands off the hip and knee joints.

Specifically, the heel lift improves:

• Depth – Allows you to hit full depth in squats more comfortably.
• Technique – Keeping your torso upright is crucial for injury-free squatting.
• Muscle activation – Greater squat depth fully engages the glutes and hamstrings.
• Overhead lifting – A raised heel improves overhead mobility for snatches and jerks.

The EVA heel provides a stable base of support under the weight, letting you drive forcefully out of the bottom. The Materials compress just enough to absorb shock while still returning energy.

So if you struggle with upright torso position or lack depth performing squats, consider a Luxiaojun shoe to improve your mechanics and strength.

Reviews of Luxiaojun Shoes

Luxiaojun shoes stand out for receiving extremely positive reviews and ratings:

• Trustworthy quality – Reviewers consistently praise the quality and craftsmanship given the affordable pricing. The shoes live up to their performance promises.
• Great value – Comparable shoes from Nike/Adidas can cost $150+ yet offer no performance benefit over Luxiaojun models half the price.
• Versatile training – Users mention the shoes perform great for Olympic lifting, CrossFit, squats, and more. Luxiaojun delivers on its all-around design goals.
• Comfortable fit – The shoes require almost no break-in and mold nicely to your feet. The leather and EVA materials feel great.
• Durable construction – Even after months/years of heavy lifting, the shoes show only minimal wear and retain structural integrity.
• Improved technique – Many reviewers say the Luxiaojun shoes immediately improved their squat depth and body positioning due to the stable heel.

Thousands of happy customers make clear that Luxiaojun shoes punch well above their price class in terms of performance, quality, and value. The shoes live up to their weightlifting pedigree.

Luxiaojun Shoe Sizing

Luxiaojun shoes are offered in a wide range of full and half sizes:

• US men’s sizes – Men’s sizes 5 through 14 cover most male lifters. Size 12 and 13 are harder to find from some brands.
• US women’s sizes – Women’s sizes 3 through 10.5. Half sizes help dial in the perfect fit.
• European sizes – Luxiaojun shoes are dual labeled with US and European sizing from 36 through 48. Wider than many brands.
• Metric sizing – Shoes contain cm sizing too. Men’s sizes 28cm through 33 cm.
• Wide widths – Some styles like the Luxiaojun A3-W are offered in wider widths to accommodate wider feet.

Do keep in mind that the shoes fit snugly for stability during lifting. Consider sizing up a half or full size from your regular shoe size if you prefer a looser fit.

With their broad size range, you can fine tune the fit of Luxiaojun shoes to match your foot dimensions and comfort preferences.

Men’s and Women’s Styles

A frequent question is whether Luxiaojun makes men’s and women’s specific shoes. Currently, most Luxiaojun shoes are unisex models suitable for either gender.

Differences between “men’s” and “women’s” versions are typically just colorways and graphics rather than changes to the shoe’s fit and dimensions.

However, some tips for getting the right Luxiaojun shoe for your gender:

• Women should choose their normal training shoe size or size down a half-size if between sizes. The snug performance fit accommodates the difference in foot anatomy.
• Men with large feet may want to size up a half-size from normal for a bit more room, especially if also wearing lifting socks.
• Narrower models like the A3-W can work well for women who want a precise foothold for lifting.

While optimized as a unisex design, both men and women will feel comfortable and supported lifting in Luxiaojun shoes. Focus on your regular training shoe size and fit preferences.

Luxiaojun Colorways

Beyond performance, customers also love the style options among Luxiaojun models:

• Classic black leather – The standard black leather with white midsole has a timeless, minimalist appeal. Matches any gym outfit.
• Two-tone colorblocking – Combinations like black/red, black/white, and black/yellow inject bold lifting style.
• Fun brights – Vibrant accent colors on models like the Luxiaojun M2 grab attention for a confidence boost.
• Luxe metals – Subtle metallic golds, bronzes and silvers catch the light for a glam finish.
• Camo prints – Camouflage-patterned Luxiaojun shoes provide a rugged, outdoorsman vibe.
• Custom options – Luxiaojun lets you customize color schemes on select models through their website.

With so many color and style choices, you can match Luxiaojun shoes to your personality and training gear. There’s a look for every lifter.

How Luxiaojun Compares to Nike and Adidas

The two biggest athletic brands, Nike and Adidas, also make lifting shoes. But how do they stack up against Luxiaojun’s offerings?

Luxiaojun advantages:

• Significantly lower price – $60-$120 vs. $150-$250+
• Wider fit range with half sizes
• Leather upper offers more customized stability
• Made in China – more control over manufacturing

Nike/Adidas advantages:

• Broader brand recognition and availability
• More style collaborations with top athletes
• Advanced proprietary midsole foams

Overall, Luxiaojun provides comparable (if not better) performance to Nike and Adidas at a fraction of the cost. Unless you need the brand name clout, Luxiaojun is the smarter buy and better value for most lifters.

The shoes offer the support, stability, and heel lift serious lifters need while lacking expensive marketing fluff. Luxiaojun keeps it simple and focused on quality construction.

Weight and Comfort Factors

Two important considerations for any training shoe are weight and comfort. Here’s how Luxiaojun models stack up:

Weight

• Luxiaojun shoes weigh 12-16 oz per shoe depending on the model and materials.
• Leather shoes are slightly heavier than synthetic/mesh uppers.
• The EVA heel keeps weight low without sacrificing support.
• Light enough for cardio, plyometrics, and all-day wear.

Comfort

• The molded EVA heel provides more shock absorption than hard rubber.
• Leather uppers conform to your feet over time. No break-in required.
• Mesh lining and anti-microbial insole control moisture and odor.
• A snug fit from laces/straps gives a secure feel under loads.
• Quality materials avoid irritation, hot spots, or pinching during wear.

For a lifting shoe, Luxiaojun models are impressively lightweight and comfortable right out of the box. The shoes worn’t slow you down or cause discomfort during long training sessions.

Luxiaojun for CrossFit and HIIT

Luxiaojun shoes work great for high-intensity workout styles like CrossFit and HIIT training.

Models like the Revolution are purpose-built with CrossFit mobility in mind:

• Midsole flexibility – The semi-rigid Revolution sole bends at the toe for running, box jumps, burpees.
• Low profile – A lower heel-toe drop is made for speed and agility.
• Enhanced breathability – Synthetic leather and mesh allow maximum airflow.
• Stickier rubber – The Revolution outsole grips floors during plyometrics or sled pushes.
• Quick lacing – The strap system provides easy on/off convenience for fast WOD transitions.

While supportive for heavy lifts, the Revolution feels minimally restrictive so you can power through high-rep sets, sprints, and rope climbs. The shoes provide a traction advantage on gym surfaces.

So whether you mainly lift, do CrossFit, or a blend, Luxiaojun offers options tailored for high-intensity training demands.

Luxiaojun Shoe Warranties

Luxiaojun stands behind their shoes with warranties against defects and workmanship issues:

• Manufacturer defects – Any flaws in original materials or construction are covered.
• Workmanship issues – Problems like sole separation or torn upper stitching qualify for warranty claims.
• 1 year coverage – Luxiaojun offers a 12 month warranty from the purchase date.
• What’s not covered – Normal wear and tear from regular use does not qualify for replacement.

To claim a warranty:

• Contact the seller for initial support. Amazon and retailers often handle exchanges.
• If needed, contact Luxiaojun directly through email or their website.
• You’ll need to provide proof of purchase and photos of the damage.
• Luxiaojun will determine if a replacement shoe is warranted based on the circumstance.

Tips to extend lifespan:

• Allow shoes 1-2 rest days a week to recover. Rotate multiple pairs.
• Remove insoles to fully dry out shoes after workouts.
• Spot clean leather uppers and use shoe trees maintain shape.

With proper care, your Luxiaojun shoes should last 1-3 years. But it’s good peace of mind knowing the company stands behind its products if defects arise.

Cleaning and Caring for Luxiaojun Shoes

Like any athletic shoe, taking care of Luxiaojun models will maximize their lifespan:

• Spot clean leather – Use a small amount of mild soap and damp cloth to wipe dirt and sweat from leather uppers. Avoid soaking.
• Dry fully after use – Take out the insoles and allow shoes 24 hours to dry between wears. Speed up drying with a fan.
• Use cedar shoe trees – Placing cedar shoe trees inside the shoes when not in use preserves the shape and absorbs moisture.
• Check stitching – Visually inspect the upper stitching and glue joints periodically for any signs of separation or tears.
• Retighten laces – Snug up loose laces before each session. Replace laces at first sign of damage or fraying for safety.
• Clean insoles – Use antibacterial spray or gently hand wash insoles to remove odors and bacteria buildup. Air dry completely.
• Limit direct water exposure – Avoid submerging shoes in water or washing in machines which can degrade adhesives.

With consistent cleaning and drying, your Luxiaojun shoes will maintain top performance and last through years of hard use.

How to Choose the Right Luxiaojun Shoe Size

Choosing the right shoe size is critical for comfort and stability when lifting heavy loads. Consider these tips for fitting Luxiaojun shoes:

• Measure both feet and go with larger foot’s length. Feet are often slightly different sizes.
• Wear same socks you lift in when measuring. Thickness impacts fit.
• Try shoes on at end of day. Feet expand throughout day.
• Have thumb’s width between longest toe and shoe end. Too short causes black toenails.
• Heel should be held firmly in place without slipping. Important for squats.
• Walk around on hard floor. Ensure no heel slip and toes don’t hit front.
• Consider sizing up half-size if between sizes or you prefer a little room. But don’t size up more than half a size.
• Lace up snugly but not painfully tight. The shoes will break-in over time.

Getting an accurate fit measurement and testing the fit are vital for maximum footing stability and injury prevention. Proper shoes also improve technique by letting you drive force through your heels more effectively.

Are Luxiaojun Shoes Good for Beginners?

Luxiaojun shoes are actually an excellent choice for beginners just getting into Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting.

Here’s why Luxiaojun models are great starter lifting shoes:

• Affordably priced for beginner budgets
• Offer needed support for new lifters
• Raised heel improves squat mechanics
• Quality materials still used despite lower cost
• Avoid compromise on traction and stability
• Straightforward style in basic black
• Reputation for durability; lasts through novice phase
• Allows beginners to train with proper lifting footwear
• Helps build foundations of good technique early on
• Mid-range stiffness right for beginner strength levels

By training in purpose-built shoes from the start, beginners will ingrain proper movement patterns and body positioning for injury prevention. Shoes are a worthy early investment that also transition well for more advanced lifting needs down the road.

Do Luxiaojun Shoes Improve Squat and Deadlift?

The evidence clearly shows that quality lifting shoes like Luxiaojun provide measurable performance benefits for major lifts like squats and deadlifts.

Squats

Several research studies confirm lifting shoes improve squat depth, technique, and overall strength:

• Increased ankle dorsiflexion for fuller squat depth
• More upright, stable torso positioning
• Better engagement of posterior chain muscles
• Reduced forward knee travel over toes
• Increased lower body muscle activation through fuller range of motion

Lifters consistently report instantly improved squat performance after switching to lifting shoes from flats.

Deadlifts

• Raised heel mimics deficit deadlift mechanics by increasing range of motion
• Creates better shin angle relative to torso at lift off
• Helps get into optimal starting hip position
• Keeps heels down and weight distributed through foot
• More effectively transfers force from floor through heels

So the research backs up the benefits lifters feel from quality shoes — both Luxiaojun and other top brands. The footwear technology delivers results across the main lifts.

The Bottom Line on Luxiaojun Shoes

For an affordable shoe packing proven performance and durable construction, Luxiaojun delivers tremendous value. The quality bears up well against far more expensive Nike and Adidas offerings.

Thousand of happy lifters, CrossFitters and casual trainees attest to how much the shoes improve their lifting technique, confidence under heavy loads, and gym performance. Plus the shoes look great whether you’re crushing a PR or just hitting the grocery store.

While the brand recognition may not be as ubiquitous, Luxiaojun provides everything you need from a lifting shoe at a very wallet-friendly price. Don’t overthink it – Luxiaojun models have built a well-deserved reputation through quality and results.