Gym wardrobe and shoes - what do you actually train in?

[GymRat42]

Light-hearted one. What do you actually train in? Specifically shoes - I see flat shoes, lifters, running shoes, barefoot. Does it matter, and what's everyone's go-to gym kit? My trainers feel wrong under heavy squats.

[SquatSensei]

Shoes genuinely matter for lifting. Flat, hard soles (Chucks, flat trainers, or proper lifting shoes) for squats and deadlifts - running shoes have a soft compressible heel that makes you unstable under load. That 'wrong' feeling under squats is exactly that.

[GymRat42]

So my squishy running shoes are the problem, not me.

[SquatSensei]

Largely yes. A soft heel lets your foot roll and your knee wander. Flat and firm gives you a stable base instantly.

[StrengthGeek]

Lifting shoes with a raised heel help if you squat high-bar or have stiff ankles - more upright, easier depth. Flats/Chucks are great for deadlifts (closer to the floor) and general work. Many of us own both and switch by lift.

[FitFamTom]

For clothes, honestly just comfortable and lets you move - nothing restrictive. I train in cheap shorts and a tee. The only real 'gear' worth it is decent shoes and maybe a belt for heavy work. The rest is personal preference.

[GymNoob22]

Glad it's not just me who found running shoes weird under the bar. Grabbing some flat shoes. Comfortable clothes and the right shoes, skip the rest. Thanks.

[GymRat42]

Flats for deadlifts, maybe lifters for squats, comfy clothes otherwise. Sorted. Cheers all, my squats thank you in advance.