Huge upgrade from using Chuck's for squats and deadlifting.  I never believed in using a specialized shoe when I had a pair of perfectly good and flat Chuck's.  That is until a friend twisted my arm into using these shoes for a set of deadlifts.  After just one set, I was sold.  The wider toe area let my foot spread out flat and I actually felt a difference in my stability.  I will not try to convince anyone that a specialized shoe will increase their lifts but I will definitely vouch that you WILL feel more sturdy with 500 pounds on your back when squatting.  You WILL feel great when you get home and take your shoes off after a heavy lift day.  You will NOT feel that bunched up feeling in your toes that you may get with a pair of good ol' Chuck's.  The shoes are way lighter than they look and are pretty comfortable right out of the box.  I can only imagine how great these will feel after breaking them in for a year.  They got the extra padding near the ankles and the cupping of the heel right also.  I have no doubt that I will purchase another pair when these finally tear apart.