Nike Romaleos Vs Savaleos: Unbiased Practical Comparison
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When it comes to weightlifting and just generally choosing a good shoe for performance, the right pair can make a big difference.
Two of the most popular options right now in this space right now are the Nike Romaleos and the Nike Savaleos.
As someone who has tried both of these shoes, there are some crucial differences between the two, which may influence you in deciding which shoe is best for you and your training goals.
- Primary Use: Designed for weightlifting and powerlifting
- Insole: Firm and stable insole for heavy lifting
- Weight: Heavier and stiffer for enhanced stability during lifting
- Heel Height: Higher heel height for maximum stability and support
- Breathability: Limited breathability due to its focus on stability
- Price: Typically priced higher due to its specialized design
- Primary Use: Geared towards functional fitness and cross-training
- Insole: Responsive and cushioned insole for versatile workouts
- Weight: Lighter and more flexible for dynamic movements
- Heel Height: Lower heel height for a more natural feel and agility
- Breathability: Enhanced breathability for comfort during varied workouts
- Price: Often priced lower, [Special offers are quite frequent on Nike.com] which makes them a more popular pick
The Nike Romaleos are designed specifically for weightlifting, offering exceptional stability and support, making them ideal for serious lifters.
On the other hand, you have the Nike Savaleos which are built with versatility in mind to cater to those who engage in CrossFit-style workouts.
While both shoes provide excellent support for lifting weights, their features cater to different needs and preferences, making it essential to understand these differences before making a purchase.
- Nike Romaleos are built for weightlifting, providing excellent stability and support.
- The Nike Savaleos are versatile and suitable for CrossFit-style workouts.
- Evaluating the differences between these shoes helps make an informed decision based on individual needs and preferences.
Whether you choose to go for the Nike Romaleos or the Savaleos, there are a few things that any good weightlifting shoe must have.
- The shoes should have an ample strap that helps secure the ankle.
- They should also have a heel wedge that helps to secure the ankle and put you in a good position to lift.
- The shoe needs a very flat and stable platform that will not compress.
- Weightlifting shoes should have perforation holes to allow for air circulation.
Table of Contents
Nike Romaleos Overview
I’ve had the opportunity to try various lifting shoes, and the Nike Romaleos have been a standout option for me. Here’s a quick overview of the Nike Romaleos.
Key Features of the Romaleos
Compared to the Savaleos, the Nike Romaleos are known for their exceptional stability and support.
One of the most significant features is the rigid, flat sole that provides a stable base, ensuring optimal power transfer while lifting.
The shoe also has an elevated heel, which helps maintain proper lifting posture by allowing for an increased range of motion in the ankle.
Another key aspect is the presence of dual straps that secure my foot tightly, offering a customized and locked-in feel.
Price Range
When it comes to the price, compared to the Savaleo the Nike Romaleos is more expensive. Mainly because it’s made of stronger materials.
It can be considered a high-quality investment. The price range usually falls between $150 to $200, depending on where you shop and the time of year.
While it may seem expensive, I find the durability and performance enhancements they provide justify the cost, particularly for those who are serious about weightlifting.
You can expect them to last a very long time because they are so well-built.
Nike Savaleos Overview
Key Features of the Savaleos
The Nike Savaleos caught my eye for their versatility and lightweight design. I found these shoes to provide a solid, stable base for lifting, with just the right amount of heel raise to optimize my performance. The single strap across the midfoot allowed me to customize the fit easily, and the breathable mesh material kept my feet comfortable during longer workouts.
Price Range
In terms of price, the Savaleos do come in cheaper than the Romaleos but this is mainly due to the fact that they are not made with the same materials and I would assume from having worn them that they are not as hard-wearing as the Romaleos either.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing because it means you do not have to break the bank to get a quality pair of weightlifting shoes, and the cost of these shoes does make them an attractive option for some.
They do offer great value for the performance and features provided.
The Main Differences Between the Nike Romaleos and the Savaleos
Materials and Design Differences
Romaleos
- The Nike Romaleos is known for its robust and durable construction, offering a stable and secure weightlifting experience.
- The upper is made of synthetic material, which gives the shoe a lightweight feel, while the outsole is designed with solid rubber, ensuring a strong grip on various surfaces.
- The Romaleos has a more rigid design, which helps to provide maximum support during heavy lifts.
Savaleos
- Nike Savaleos is designed to be more versatile with a combination of materials that offer both support and flexibility.
- The upper is made of mesh and synthetic material, providing breathability and comfort.
- The outsole features a combination of rubber and foam, which allows for a better range of motion during dynamic movements.
Comfort and Fit Differences
Romaleos
There is a noticeable difference in the cushioning and overall fit between these two shoes.
- The Nike Romaleos provides a snug and more secure fit, with a more sturdy double strapped upper that give you more of a secure feel that keeps your foot in place a little better than the Savaleo’s single strap.
- The insole is relatively firm, which might take some getting used to, but it offers the support you need when performing heavy lifts.
Savaleos
- The Nike Savaleos offers a softer more comfortable fit, more like an everyday shoe, with a slightly more padded insole and a more flexible construction.
- The shoe is lighter and easier to walk in, making it a great choice for those who engage in CrossFit-style workouts or require a versatile shoe for varied training sessions.
Performance Differences
Romaleos
When it comes to performance, the main difference between these two shoes lies in their intended use.
- The Nike Romaleos is designed as a dedicated weightlifting shoe, offering maximum stability and support during heavy lifting sessions. Its rigid construction and snug fit to ensure that your foot stays in place, helping you maintain proper form and alignment during lifts.
Savaleos
- The Nike Savaleos is designed for versatility and dynamic movements. While it still offers support and stability during weightlifting exercises, its more flexible construction and lighter weight make it a better choice for those who need a shoe that can handle a wide range of activities and movements.
Nike Savaleos vs Romaleos – What Are They Each Best At?
A lot of people are understandably comparing the Nike Savaleos to the Romaleos, ever since the newer shoe made its entrance.
When the Savaleos first came out, I had to grab a pair myself because I wanted to see if they would be better than my Romaleos which I had been using for a while.
>>>Check out my recent Metcon vs Romaleos video HERE <<<
The Savaleos are much easier to walk in than the Romaleos. The heel on the Savaleo is made of lighter materials.
Whereas the Romaleos are made of a harder and much heavier plastic which is a big reason why I don’t wear them in any other scenario than the gym, they’re just too hard a shoe to be walking around in, but with the Savaleos, you can walk in them as they’re a lot softer and more flexible.
I like the fact that Nike made the Savaleos have less of a heel drop, which, in my opinion, equates to a higher level of comfort when walking.
The reason Nike made the Savaleos much lighter in weight and more comfortable, is because they are intended to be used as a cross-training shoe as well, instead of only being a shoe for weightlifting.
On the other hand, the Romaleos seem much stronger and more supportive.
They are the gold standard for lifting and are considered a must for anyone who is serious about weightlifting.
The Romaleos shoes have two straps, which is a win in my eyes. The dual straps allow me to get a more secure fit. No chance of slippage at all.
The Savaleos have a single strap, which is perfectly fine for weightlifting, but if you are accustomed to the dual strap of the Romaleos, you may find you cannot get the precise fit you prefer.
When it comes to materials, I will have to say my Romaleos are the clear winner. The uppers feel much more robust than the Savaleos. Neither of the two offers much breathability, but I had no issues with either.
Finally, we will get down to the price tag. People are going to naturally like the Savaleos because (at the time of doing this review) they are $80 cheaper than the Romaleos.
Do The Nike Savaleos Run Small?
I wear a size 12, so I picked up a pair of Nike Savaleos in the same size. .
The fit was as I expected it to be. I would say they are true to size, also, I did not experience any heel slippage in the Savaleos or the Romaleos, something that many are concerned about.
The fit was as I expected it to be. I would say they are true to size, also, I did not experience any heel slippage in the Savaleos or the Romaleos, something that many are concerned about.
If you have wide feet, you may want to go up a whole size. They feel great if you can get the size down perfectly, but if they are making your feet feel cramped, you are not going to be on your game in the gym.
Are The Nike Savaleos Good for CrossFit Workouts?
Nike Savaleos are not only for weightlifting. As I mentioned briefly above, their lightness and flexibility mean they can actually be used for CrossFit.
I wanted to try the Savaleos while doing box jumps, and I found they held up well and allowed my foot to flex just enough to make the jumps easier.
The Savaleos, while marketed to be a good CrossFit shoe, may not work well on all aspects of CrossFit training.
Although they performed great for box jumps, they fell flat while rope climbing. There just was not enough outsole grip to make me feel secure while climbing.
The Savaleos performed a lot better when I was doing my kettlebell AMRAPs. These shoes are perfect when you need to plant your feet and stay stable.
I would not exactly label these as a solid CrossFit shoe, but if you do both weightlifting and CrossFit and want a shoe that will hold up well for both, you are likely going to like the Nike Savaleos.
Which Should You Buy, Nike Savaleos or Romaleos?
Comparing one weightlifting shoe to another, especially from the same company, is not always easy. While both shoes have some similarities, I believe they are different enough to make a choice, depending on your fitness focus.
If you are a focused lifter, the Savaleos are likely not going to perform as well for you as the Romaleos. The Savaleos are not as sturdy and do not allow your feet to plant as well. They are much lighter in weight and flexibility, which is not a good thing when lifting.
On the other hand, if you are just getting into weightlifting and lean more on the side of CrossFit, the Nike Savaleos may be perfect for you. I feel they would be ideal for beginning weightlifters because of their comfort and price tag.
As a person who focuses more on lifting than anything else, I prefer the Romaleos. I have nothing against the Savaleos and was actually impressed with how they feel, but I just do not think they offer that bulky bedrock platform for lifting that my Romaleos offer.
- Primary Use: Designed for weightlifting and powerlifting
- Insole: Firm and stable insole for heavy lifting
- Weight: Heavier and stiffer for enhanced stability during lifting
- Heel Height: Higher heel height for maximum stability and support
- Breathability: Limited breathability due to its focus on stability
- Price: Typically priced higher due to its specialized design
- Primary Use: Geared towards functional fitness and cross-training
- Insole: Responsive and cushioned insole for versatile workouts
- Weight: Lighter and more flexible for dynamic movements
- Heel Height: Lower heel height for a more natural feel and agility
- Breathability: Enhanced breathability for comfort during varied workouts
- Price: Often priced lower, [Special offers are quite frequent on Nike.com] which makes them a more popular pick
Does Nike Make the Best Weightlifting Shoes?
While I do like my Romaleos, it is difficult to say whether Nike they make the best weightlifting shoes, as different brands and models may be better suited for different individuals based on their specific needs and preferences.
Many weightlifters prefer Nike weightlifting shoes for their design, comfort, and performance features, but other known brands such as Adidas, Reebok, and lesser-known names like Inov-8, TYR, and NoBull all offer options worth considering in the lifting shoe space.
It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what works best for each individual’s body type, lifting style, and goals.
When selecting weightlifting shoes, it is important to consider factors such as fit, stability, heel height, and overall support. Additionally, it is essential to choose shoes that are specifically designed for weightlifting, as these will have features that can enhance your performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Nike does offer some high-quality weightlifting shoes, but it is important to consider a variety of brands and models.
Of course, there are many opinions on this subject. If you ask most weightlifters, they are going to at least acknowledge that Nikes are high on their list of favorites.
I personally take it on a shoe-by-shoe basis, I like the way the Nike Romaleos feel, how they look, and how they fit. If you are looking for a solid pair of weightlifting shoes, that offers the right balance and performance, you cannot go wrong with the Romaleos. So far, they have been one of my favorites, and I think I will have them in rotation for a long time.
Do not get me wrong. The new Nike Savaleos are great shoes. They are perfect for casual lifters who also enjoy CrossFit. While they are lacking in some areas, but they will likely perform well for those who are not looking for a shoe with a bit more versatility.
Conclusion – Nike Savaleos vs Romaleos
In my experience with both the Nike Romaleos and Savaleos, their unique attributes cater to different aspects of weightlifting and training.
After having tried both shoes, I can safely say that each has its benefits and drawbacks depending on the specific use.
I found that the Nike Romaleos provide excellent stability and support, particularly for heavy lifting sessions. The solid base and higher heel allowed me to maintain a strong position, ultimately improving my squat performance.
The Romaleos might feel a bit too heavy and restrictive for functional movements or dynamic exercises which is completely fine for me and the type of workouts I intend to do in them.
On the other hand, the Nike Savaleos proved to be versatile, standing out as a great option for those who want a more well-rounded training shoe.
The wider sole and firmer grip around the toe-box made it suitable for various workouts, including Olympic lifts, kettlebell movements, and even running short distances. But the Savaleos may not provide the same level of stability as the Romaleos for extremely heavy lifts.
Ultimately, both shoes have their unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the Nike Romaleos and Savaleos depends on an individual’s training preferences and goals, with the Romaleos being ideal for dedicated weightlifters, while the Savaleos are suited for those seeking a multidisciplinary approach to their training.
Be sure to watch the full comparison video on the YouTube Channel.
Nike Romaleos vs Savaleos – FAQs
Do Nike Romaleos Run Small?
In my experience, they don’t.
Many people ask whether they should size up or size down when buying the Nike Romaleos and also the Savaleos for that matter. In my experience, they both run true to size. Order your regular size in these. If you are not sure of your regular size, use the Nike size chart for clarification.
Some people think that because they are lifting shoes, they should order a size smaller to avoid any chance of heel slippage, I did not experience any heel slippage with the Nike Romaleos or the Savaleos for that matter.
I would always say, if you can, try on more than one pair to get the best size possible. If you’re somebody who always buys differing sizes, then I would suggest you measure your feet to get the most accurate size.
Why Are Nike Romaleos Always Sold Out?
The Romaleos are probably the most popular lifters on the market right now.
They do sell out fast due to a combination of high demand for a shoe that is well built and also Nike being a bit slow on the restock so colorways sell out fast because Nike doesn’t always announce when they will come back in stock.
The colorway I bought I have not seen them in stock anywhere else since I bought them, so I think Nike is a little slow responding to the demand of this shoe, which of course is very frustrating for customers.
FWIW, The Savaleos (I know they’re not the same shoe) do tend to stay on the site longer as they are a little less popular.
What is the Benefit of Squat Shoes?
Squat shoes, also known as weightlifting shoes, are specially designed footwear that can provide several benefits to weightlifters performing squats or other compound exercises. One of the primary benefits and one of the main reasons I bought myself a pair is that they can improve your form and technique quite substantially.
Squat shoes typically have a raised heel, which allows you to maintain a more upright posture while performing the exercise. This can reduce the risk of injury and help you to target your quads, glutes, and hamstrings more effectively.
Also, the flat sole of squat shoes provides a stable base that allows you to generate more force from the ground, which can improve your overall strength and power.
Another benefit of squat shoes is that they can help to increase your range of motion. The raised heel of the shoe allows you to achieve a deeper squat position, which can help to activate more muscle fibers and increase your overall flexibility.
This increased range of motion can also help to improve your overall mobility and reduce the risk of injury.
These are some of the reasons why I decided to buy a pair of squat shoes for myself and I would encourage anyone that squats a lot to try squatting in a pair to see if they feel any difference.
How do Savaleos compare to Adidas Adipower?
I found that the Nike Savaleos and Adidas Adipower offer different experiences.
The main difference I found in my review of the Adipower 3 was that the Adipowers are very narrow so in terms of stability the Savaleos feel better because they have a much wider toe box and sole.
Check out my review of the Adipower 3
What is the main difference between Romaleos and Savaleos?
In my experience, the main difference between the Nike Romaleos and Savaleos lies in their design and performance.
The Romaleos are heavier, providing more stability and support, while the Savaleos are lighter, more flexible, softer therefore more comfortable.
The Romaleos are ideal for serious weightlifters, whereas the Savaleos might be more suitable for those seeking versatility in their lifts and workouts.
Should I choose Romaleos 4 or Reebok Legacy Lifter?
Between the Nike Romaleos 4 and the Reebok Legacy Lifter, I found that it mostly comes down to personal preference.
The Romaleos is a heavier and more stable feeling shoe and has a snug fit, while the Legacy Lifter provides good support.
If you value stability and better build quality, I would say definitely go for the Romaleos.
How do Savaleos perform compared to Metcons?
In my experience, the Nike Savaleos provide better performance for weightlifting, while the Metcons excel in functional fitness and CrossFit-style workouts.
The Savaleos are more focused on providing a stable platform for heavy lifts, while Metcons offer more flexibility and traction for varied movements. If you participate in both types of workouts, you could benefit from having both shoes in your arsenal.
Are Savaleos suitable for wide feet?
As someone who has used the Savaleos, I can say that they are relatively accommodating for wide feet.
The toe box is wider than that of the Romaleos, providing a more comfortable fit for those with broader feet.
But if you have exceptionally wide feet, you might still need to try them on before making a final decision, as fit can vary from person to person.
Author
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Stuart Patrick is a health and fitness lifestyle journalist who writes for ListedFit.com.
“I've spent a lot of time trying to get in shape and change my body and I realised there are so many untruths in the health and fitness industry that can slow down or stop your progress, so I share my knowledge and experience to help others to cut through the BS.”
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