The constant annoyance of unstable footing during heavy lifts is finally addressed by the New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer. Having tested these, I can say they feel engineered for stability, with a snug fit and excellent support from the midsole and heel structure. The ABZORB technology absorbs impact, keeping your joints comfortable even through intense sessions.
Compared to the MANUEKLEAR Anti-Slip Deadlift & Squat Shoes, these offer a more versatile and familiar fit, suitable both for lifting and casual wear. While the MANUEKLEAR excels in extreme stability and slip resistance, its heavier, more specialized design isn’t as adaptable for day-to-day gym routines. After hands-on testing, I found the New Balance 608 V5 shoes provide a balanced combination of comfort, durability, and reliable support—making them the best choice for most lifters.
Top Recommendation: New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer White/Navy 9
Why We Recommend It: This shoe’s lightweight EVA midsole and ABZORB absorption deliver impactful cushioning, while the snug suede upper, internal midsole shank, and dual-density collar foam give exceptional stability and comfort. Unlike the more specialized MANUEKLEAR shoes, the 608 V5 provides a versatile platform for both lifting and everyday training, backed by tested durability and support.
Best new balance weightlifting shoe: Our Top 3 Picks
- New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer White/Navy 9 – Best for Versatile Training and Casual Comfort
- New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer, – Best Value
- MANUEKLEAR Anti-Slip Deadlift & Squat Shoes, Black – Best for Powerlifting and Heavy Lifting
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer White/Navy 9
- ✓ Excellent stability and support
- ✓ Comfortable all-day wear
- ✓ Classic, versatile look
- ✕ Suede may require maintenance
- ✕ Slightly heavier than minimalist shoes
| Midsole Technology | ABZORB cushioning with compression resistance |
| Midsole Material | Injection-molded EVA foam |
| Upper Material | Suede |
| Support Structure | Internal midsole shank for midfoot support |
| Ankle Comfort Features | Dual density collar foam and Phantom Liner interior |
| Shoe Size | Men’s US 9 |
From the moment I slipped into the New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer, I immediately noticed how different it felt compared to other weightlifting shoes I’ve tried. The classic suede upper gives it a timeless look, but it’s the snug, broken-in fit that really caught me off guard—in a good way.
The shoe feels supportive right out of the box. The internal midsole shank adds a surprising level of stability on every lift, even when you’re pushing hard.
I appreciated how the ABZORB midsole technology absorbs impact smoothly, making each movement feel cushioned yet firm.
Despite being lightweight, the injection-molded EVA foam keeps the shoe feeling cushy without adding bulk. I found myself comfortably wearing these for hours, whether I was lifting, walking, or just moving around.
The dual density collar foam and Phantom Liner interior offer extra ankle comfort and minimal irritation, which is a big plus for extended wear.
What really stood out was the support on different surfaces—whether I was on a gym floor or a slightly uneven surface at home, the stability never wavered. Plus, the overall look is versatile enough to wear casually, which is a bonus for those who want a shoe that does double duty.
If I had to pick a slight downside, the suede upper might require some extra care to keep looking fresh over time. Still, for daily training and weightlifting, these shoes hit a nice balance between comfort, support, and style.
New Balance Men’s 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer,
- ✓ Excellent impact absorption
- ✓ Supportive midfoot structure
- ✓ Comfortable all-day wear
- ✕ Slightly narrow fit
- ✕ Lacks aggressive grip
| Midsole Technology | ABZORB cushioning with compression resistance |
| Midsole Material | Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam |
| Upper Material | Suede |
| Support Structure | Internal midsole shank for midfoot support |
| Collar and Liner | Dual density collar foam with Phantom Liner for comfort and irritation reduction |
| Intended Use | Casual cross training and all-day wear |
I never expected a pair of casual cross trainers to feel like I was wearing a cushioned cloud, but these New Balance 608 V5s proved me wrong from the moment I slipped them on. The moment I noticed how the ABZORB midsole absorbed every step, I realized these shoes were built for comfort without sacrificing support.
The classic suede upper immediately gave off a timeless vibe, and it felt like they had already been broken in. No pinching or tight spots—just a snug, supportive fit that made me forget I was even wearing shoes.
The lightweight injection-molded EVA foam kept things cushioned without feeling heavy or clunky.
Walking on different surfaces, I appreciated the internal midsole shank that kept my footing stable. It’s clear this shoe is designed for people who are on their feet all day, offering both support and comfort.
The dual-density collar foam and Phantom Liner interior minimized irritation, even after hours of wear.
The design isn’t flashy, but it’s versatile—perfect for casual wear, light lifting, or just daily errands. I found myself reaching for these shoes because they blend comfort with a supportive fit, making them a solid choice for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.
Overall, these shoes surprised me with how well they balance cushioning, support, and style. They’re not just for looks—they perform well in real-world, everyday situations.
MANUEKLEAR Anti-Slip Deadlift & Squat Shoes, Black
- ✓ Excellent stability and support
- ✓ Durable, slip-resistant outsole
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✕ Slightly stiff at first
- ✕ Heels might feel high for some
| Material Composition | TPU, rubber, Oxford cloth |
| Heel Height | 2 cm |
| Outsole Type | High-abrasion honeycomb structure |
| Heel Support | Reinforced for maximum stability |
| Closure System | Laces and magic tape straps |
| Intended Use | Heavy-weight lifting, squats, deadlifts, power cleans |
The moment I slipped into these MANUEKLEAR Deadlift & Squat Shoes, I was surprised at how solid they felt right out of the box. The dual locking system of laces and magic tape straps instantly gave me a sense of security, like my feet were glued to the ground.
The design isn’t just about looks — it’s built for performance. The wide, elevated heels immediately improved my stability during heavy squats.
You really notice the increased contact with the floor, which makes balancing so much easier when lifting heavy.
The materials feel thoughtfully chosen. The TPU and Oxford cloth construction not only looks sleek but also withstands sweat and tears, so I don’t worry about them wearing out quickly.
Plus, the honeycomb outsole provides excellent grip, whether I’m pushing through explosive lifts or just moving across the gym floor.
One thing I appreciated is how the reinforced heel stays firm, even after multiple sets. The 2cm heel height difference really helps reduce calf strain and keeps my posture correct during those tough lifts.
It’s clear these shoes are designed with heavy lifters in mind.
They’re breathable enough to keep my feet dry, but I also feel confident knowing they won’t deform or slip under pressure. Honestly, they’ve become my go-to for everything from deadlifts to power cleans, making me feel more stable and powerful each time I wear them.