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Two of my favorite high-top shoes include the NOBULL High Top Trainers and the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star High Tops. Both of these are fantastic for lifting heavy weights, but is there a front runner in regards to which you should buy?
That’s a great question and we’re going to dive into that in this article. I’ve been lifting in both of these models for the last 5+ years and have competed in powerlifting in both shoes (Converse I’ve worn for a bit longer!).
That being said, I have a pretty good idea of which is “better” for various lifters based on the criteria that most use to dictate their best-suited purchases.
High Top NOBULL Trainers Vs Converse Performance
When discussing the performance of these two shoes, I’m going to break this section into two key areas. We’re going to talk about deadlifting and squatting, all-around performance (all types of lifting).
Deadlift and Squatting
In regard to squatting and deadlifting heavy, both of these shoes offer an ample amount of stability. The midsole and outsole construction for both of these models limits compression and supports stability across the board. Outside of these models’ outsole and midsole build, another important characteristic to look at is the heel-to-toe drop these models offer.
The Converse offers a 0mm heel-to-toe drop, which makes this shoe a great pick for anyone who wants to feel truly low-to-the-ground and “flat” similar to barefoot shoes. The NOBULL High Top Trainers have a 4mm heel-to-toe drop which isn’t the biggest change from the Converse’ 0mm drop, but it’s still enough to make it worth mentioning.
Winner: Since both models are plenty stable, it depends on what you prefer when it comes to heel-to-toe drop and how each shoe fits.
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star
$60
Best For
- Powerlifting
- Heavier Strength Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Deadlifting
Falls Short
- For Versatile Training
- Long-Term Durability
All-Around Performance
The clear winner when it comes to all-around performance is the NOBULL High Top Trainers. These models are designed to accommodate a variety of activities and are true cross-trainers in nature. Whereas Converse are designed to be day-to-day shoes, lifters (generally, powerlifters) have made them into shoes for training.
The NOBULL Outwork High Tops have a durable upper construction for resisting abrasion and friction, a midsole that is decently responsive despite offering ample stability, and an outsole with traction designed to promote multi-directional activity.
Winner: NOBULL High Top Trainers
High Top NOBULL Trainers Vs Converse Durability
When it comes to durability, both of these shoes have a few things going for them. The NOBULL High Top Trainers have their signature Superfabric upper to promote long-term durability, while the Converse has a canvas built with a rubber toe cap.
Both of these builds are fairly durable, especially throughout the first 6-months of wear, but there is a clear winner when it comes to long-term workout-focused durability.
The NOBULL Trainers tend to last a bit longer than Converse when using each shoe strictly for training sessions. The canvas used in the Converse models can rip at times and I’ve had two pairs rip down the side of the boot while squatting in the past.
Again though, it’s important to remember that this makes sense when you consider the fact that Converse High Top shoes are not really designed for lifting, especially maximally lifting.
Winner: Both are solid within 6-months, but the NOBULL High Top Trainers win from a long-term point of view.
High Top NOBULL Trainers Vs Converse Sizing and Fit
To be honest, the sizing and fit for NOBULL Trainers and Converse can both be a pair in their own ways. The NOBULL High Top Trainers are expensive, so it can be a pair guessing your size.
Conversely, Converse High Top shoes often run a bit and it’s important to nail your sizing correctly, otherwise, you’ll look like you’re wearing clown shoes — a trap I’ve fallen into before.
NOBULL High Top Trainers Sizing and Fit
For most lifters and athletes, you should be safe going true-to-size in the NOBULL High Top Trainers. They fit fairly true and the toe box is wide enough to account for full toe splay for a variety of feet.
I will say, that with this model, you’ll need to loosen them up every time you put them on as they can be a pair getting on even when getting your sizing correct.
Sizing Thoughts: Go true-to-size, or half size up if you’re worried about them being too small!
Converse Sizing and Fit
If you’re new to wearing Converse shoes, then expect sizing to be a little odd. Generally, you’ll want to size down a half to full size to ensure these fit correctly. Personally, I size down a full size and they fit perfectly fine, so I always encourage other lifters to also do so.
This is to prevent your shoes from looking like clown shoes, which is a very true reality for many in Converse. It’s also worth mentioning that Converse shoes generally fit pretty slim, so they’re often not the first pick for wider-footed individuals.
Sizing Thoughts: Size down a half to full-size. If you generally have a good amount of room in the toes in your normal shoes, then go a full size down.
High Top NOBULL Trainers Vs Converse Price
As for price, there is a clear frontrunner and winner in this NOBULL vs Converse showdown. If you’ve ever looked at NOBULL Trainers before, then you likely already know they’re not very friendly on the wallet, especially the high-top models. It doesn’t help that Converse shoes are often made to be super affordable.
NOBULL Outwork High-Top
$139
Pros
- Durable upper
- Stable midsole
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can run warm
- Can be a pain to get on
- Not great for running
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Day-to-Day Wear
- Long-Term Durability
Specs
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 4mm |
| Weight | 12.2 oz |
| Width | Medium |
| Lifting Threshold | ~550 lbs |
| Run Distance Threshold | <1 mile |
At a price of $60, you can buy two pairs of Converse for less than what one pair of NOBULL High Top Trainers costs. Do note though, that the durability for the Converse may not last as long, so you may go through multiple models in the time it would take to break down one pair of NOBULLs.
That being said though, if you’re someone who wants a zero-drop shoe specifically for compound movements and wants to save some money, then Converse will be the call.
If you’re someone looking for a high top training shoe that is versatile, then the NOBULL High Top Trainers will be hands down a better bet. You could also explore other mid and high-top models like GORUCK Ballistic Trainer Mid.
Takeaway Thoughts
Both the NOBULL High Top Trainers and Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star High Top shoes are great picks for stability in workouts. The NOBULL Trainers will be superior when it comes to versatile training but come with a higher price tag.
The Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars offer a 0mm heel-to-toe drop and have been used by powerlifters forever. If you want a budget-friendly model that comes at a fair price, then they may be worth checking out!
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