Written by Kiel DiGiovanni | Co-founder
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Weightlifting belts are one of the most polarizing pieces of workout gear for working out. Some people swear by the lifting belt, while different people argue going without it is better. Sometimes you’ll have athletes/lifters laugh at the idea of wearing one and choose to lift totally raw, but in our opinion, there are times when wearing a belt can be incredibly helpful.
Weight belts can give you something to brace your torso against and are an easy way to help increase ab pressure when lifting a heavy weight to ensure your core muscles stay tight and braced against the lifting belt throughout the exercise. There’s a good reason why people can typically squat and deadlift more with a belt than without it.
There are many different weightlifting belts, and their functions, like most lifting accessories, vary depending on the type of exercise being completed. Consumers are often bombarded with different kinds of materials and latching mechanisms. This can make it challenging to narrow down your decision on the best lifting belt for your needs.
Luckily, we have made a list of the best weightlifting belts that should cover the different categories such as sports, powerlifting, and skills.
Table of Contents:
- 11 best weightlifting belts
- Top rated weightlifting belt comparison
- Types of belts for weightlifting
- Mechanisms used by training belts
- What to look for when buying a weight training belt
- How to properly wear a belt for lifting
- Top weight lifting belt FAQs
- Recap
SFS Pick
Iron Bull
SFS Budget Pick
Harbinger
SFS Powerlifting Pick
RDX
11 Best Weightlifting Belts
- Overall Best Weightlifting Belt: Iron Bull Weightlifting Belt
- Best Budget Weightlifting Belt: Harbinger Weightlifting Belt
- Best Powerlifting Belt: RDX Powerlifting Belt
- Best Belt For CrossFit: E26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt
- Best Olympic Weightlifting Belt: 2POOD Weightlifting Belt
- Best Belt For Squats: Gymreapers 6MM Weightlifting Belt
- Best Belt For Deadlifts: Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt
- Best Weightlifting Belt For Women: Lift Tech Foam Belt
- Best Lever Belt: Titan Powerlifting Lever Belt
- Best Leather Weightlifting Belt: Dark Iron Weightlifting Belt
- Best Nylon Belt: Fire Team Fit Weightlifting Belt
1. Overall Best Weightlifting Belt: Iron Bull Weightlifting Belt
This Iron Bull Strength belt features 10 Millimeter genuine suede leather and a heavy-duty construction. In our opinion, the overall best weightlifting belt is the Iron Bull Strength Leather Belt.
The suede leather belt is four inches wide in a cylinder style, offering a ton of extra support during any lift. Despite its high-quality construction and materials, it is very reasonably priced and is an excellent value for anyone on the market for a lifting belt.
Iron Bull Strength double prong buckle made from custom zinc plated steel that ensures it provides ample lumbar support and abdominal support. The double stitching on the belt is thorough to keep it in tip-top shape during the toughest workouts.
Another perk of this belt is that it comes in 5 different waist sizes with 10 rows of holes and 7 different colors so there's truly something for everyone.
Last but not least, this high-quality leather belt is approved by both the USPA and IPL.
Pros
- Unisex design
- Variety of sizes
- Great value
- Nice color choices
Cons
- Some people may have issues with sizing themselves properly
Our PowerLifting Belt features a 10mm thick select, exclusive suede leather material construction. The 10mm thickness is used by the top athletes...
2. Best Budget Weightlifting Belt: Harbinger Weightlifting Belt
The Harbinger Padded Leather Weightlifting belt offers impressive comfort with its interior foam cushioning. The belt is constructed out of genuine leather and offers a contoured design that allows it to fit snugly against the body without hindering your mobility.
The heavy-duty dual steel roller buckle helps maintain a tight fit that offers enough intra abdominal pressure to boost your heavy lifts. With this leather belt, you have the choice to pick from a 4 or 6 inches wide that gives more users the ability to match their needs.
Depending on your size, this product will be the best budget option if you want to save money but still get a solid weightlifting belt, not to mention, it's made in USA.
Plus, with over 7,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.6, you can buy this belt knowing that it is well tested and a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Interior foam cushioning and the suede lining are very comfortable
- The design supports heavy lifting without hindering mobility
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- It only comes in black
Made in USA this 4 inch belt with a buckle closure sports padded leather with contoured design for added comfort. Interior foam cushioning and suede lining offer ...
3. Best Powerlifting Belt: RDX Powerlifting Belt
RDX has been a notable brand since 1999 and their products are highly reviewed as being high-quality at a reasonable price.
This RDX powerlifting belt is a perfect example of a high-quality product, with its sturdy leather build and powder-coated lever locking system, you won’t have to worry about the belt failing in the middle of a lift.
The powder-coated steel buckle is mounted on 5mm diameter screws that give this lever action belt a solid build and is quick to take off.
Plan on lifting in competition? Not a problem, it's approved by two of the most prominent associations out there which makes it one of the best powerlifting belts on the market. It isn’t hard to see why this belt is one of the options on the market for powerlifters.
Pros
- Approved by World Powerlifting Congress & Global Powerlifting Committee and compliant with IPL and USPA powerlifting associations
- High-quality look
- Great value
- Solid lever mechanism
Cons
- Sizing chart could be better
- Only two color options (black & brown)
Lever clasp closure ensures a sturdy, balanced, and ideal waist fastening support with comfort. Powder coated steel buckle with lever clasp can be mounted on the powerlifting lever belt via screws as per the preference of the athletes undergoing strength ...
4. Best Belt For CrossFit: E26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt
The Element 26 Weightlifting Belt is a solid product with a unique locking mechanism. Many people who prefer CrossFit and other functional workouts will love the mobility and stability they will have while using this belt.
The Element 26 self-locking weightlifting belt has a mechanism that's unique, well-built, and extremely simple to use. So you should never have to worry about your belt popping open like some other velcro weightlifting belts.
The 4-inch wide nylon weightlifting belt doesn't include any nonsense padded inserts or mesh coverings so you're guaranteed to get consistent pressure with every lift during your strength training endeavors.
The belt also doesn’t include any unnecessarily padded inserts or mesh coverings, which typically create unequal weight distribution during your lifts. Element 26 is so confident in their self-locking weightlifting belt that they cover it with a lifetime warranty, so if you are a functional lifter who needs a lifting belt we can’t recommend this one enough.
Pros
- Great warranty
- Comfortable to wear
- Self-locking and releasing mechanism
- Allows for solid mobility
Cons
- Not meant for heavy lifts
- Nylon may absorb sweat
Unlike other belts that only rely on cheap straps to support your lifts, our weight lifting belt uses Self-Locking technology that will never wear down and risk injury during your Olympic lifts...
5. Best Olympic Weightlifting Belt: 2POOD Weightlifting Belt
The 2Pood Straight Weightlifting Belt comes equipped with a WODclamp quick-adjusting feature which allows for additional security, support, and quick release.
Despite being incredibly affordable, it is the belt worn by some elite CrossFit and Olympic athletes competing today including CJ Cummings, Amanda Barnhart, and Jacob Heppner just to name a few.
The velcro belt, WODclamp, and cordura nylon material allow you to lift heavy and easily switch between workouts.
If you’re a functional lifter or an Olympic athlete, this is the belt for you. In addition, the 4-inch belt width makes this belt compliant with USAW guidelines so it can be used in all sanctioned events within the association.
Pros
- USAW compliant
- Six size options
- Nice color choices
- Great reviews
- Worn by some of the best Olympic lifters
Cons
- Not built for heavy lifters
The 2POOD Straight Belt is the official belt of USA Weightlifting, and is worn by Mattie Rogers, CJ Cummings, Jacob Heppner, Amanda Barnhart, Nick Urankar, Chyna Cho, and many others...
6. Best Belt For Squats: Gymreapers 6MM Weightlifting Belt
The Gymreapers 6MM weightlifting belt is a rigid belt that provides support during even your heaviest PR attempts. This makes it one of our favorites and our top choice for the best squat belt.
It is made with high-quality leather, suede interior, double reinforced stitching, and a sturdy steel matte black double-pronged buckle, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to hit some heavy sets of squats.
It features an all-black design, which in our opinion looks pretty sharp. The uniform 4-inch height makes it ideal for competitors and individuals who need additional support. Inside is a suede leather liner that helps regulate moisture for the times you get sweaty from lifting weights.
The 6MM thick belt will provide more tension than a thinner belt plus it offers an experience with no pinching or slipping.
The Gymreaper lifting belt is also met with great reviews by customers, with the only remarks being to make sure to buy up a size.
Pros
- Simple, well-tested design
- Five size options
- Double stitched to increase durability
- Suede inner liner
Cons
- It only comes in one color
- Sizing is off, make sure to size up
- 60 day return policy
Our Gymreapers weight lifting power belt provides complete support and protection for your back, spine, and core for squats, deadlifts, and any form of compound movements...
7. Best Belt For Deadlifts: Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt
The Gymreapers 7MM Pro lifting belt is built to take on some serious powerlifting sessions and help you remain braced during deadlifts.
It is built with genuine full grain leather, so like any leather belt, it will need to be worked with some leather softener to make it less stiff and help it form to your body better.
This belt is also tapered, which means it was designed to help you perform deadlifts and squats with greater mobility.
To make this offer even more incredible, it comes with a solid one year replacement warranty and a carrying case to help protect your belt.
It is available in six different sizes, so regardless of your size you should be able to find one that fits you.
Pros
- Great warranty
- Comfortable to wear
- Solid durability
- Includes a carrying case
Cons
- It only comes in black
- It needs to be worked to soften the leather
For your comfort and support we've lined our leather belt with suede to protect your skin while still providing firm back support when lifting...
8. Best Weightlifting Belt For Women: Lift Tech Foam Belt
The Lift Tech Women’s Foam Belt is flexible and lightweight while providing the perfect amount of support to stabilize your core muscles.
The Lift Tech belt is made from a breathable nylon material that is soft against the skin and provides a quick-to-adjust velcro quick locking belt mechanism and steel buckle closure for optimal support. The belt is also soft and comfortable offering a decent range of motion during functional training.
A nice feature of this nylon belt with foam core is that can it stand up to being hand washed once it becomes a little ripe. The width of the belt is 5 inches with a foam inner core that has brushed tricot lining plus is has softbound smooth edges that won't dig into your skin.
Overall this is a nice belt that will accommodate most lifter's needs at a super budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Solid, steel buckle
- Can be hand washed to keep it clean
- Unique color
Cons
- Only three sizes
- Velcro wears out quickly
Featuring a hook-and-Loop fastening system for custom, secure fit with steel tensioning buckle plus a 5” wide foam core with brushed tricot lining and soft bound edge...
9. Best Lever Weightlifting Belt: Titan Powerlifting Lever Belt
The Titan Fitness Lever Belt is one of the best lever action choices on the market (nothing against GymReapers Lever Belt which is also good).
This is a functional and versatile option that will last a long time.
The locking mechanism lines up perfectly with the holes when the belt is closed and the hinging action is relatively smooth. You shouldn’t have to worry about the lever popping open in the middle of your sets, even when doing heavy singles.
Like some other lifting belts on this list, you get a 4-inch wide surface. What sets it apart from some other belts is 10MM thickness. Then you have 7 adjustable holes that have 1-inch spacing and a stainless steel lock-in lever buckle design.
The materials used in constructing this thicker belt is the laminated cow leather exterior and a back split leather interior. Plus you get added durability with the Tuff Kote edging seal and a premium-looking embossed logo on the back of it.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Structure is great for heavy lifting
- Decent range of sizing options
- Free shipping and solid warranty
Cons
- Higher price point
- Thicker leather can be uncomfortable in the beginning
These black laminated leather Powerlifting belts are durable, four-inches-wide, providing firm support through heavy lifts. Crafted with seven adjustable holes spaced...
10. Best Leather Weightlifting Belt: Dark Iron Weightlifting Belt
Dark Iron Fitness has been around for a while and producing high-quality leather belts since 2015.
The Dark Iron leather belt has a double-pronged fastening system and provides additional security and stability during heavy lifts, like squats, deadlifts, and bent-over rows. Plus with the reinforced rivets, the buckle is very unlikely to break off or fail.
The Dark Iron Fitness belt is unique because instead of traditional cow leather, this belt uses 100% genuine cowhide leather. This premium leather belt is soft to the touch, yet surprisingly durable.
So if you’re serious about lifting, you will be able to tell right away the difference this belt from Dark Iron Fitness will make.
Pros
- Unique choice in leather
- Solid value
- Heavy-duty reinforced stitching
- Great warranty
Cons
- May leave residue on your clothes
Ease into every lift with this gym belt. Made from 100% genuine buffalo hide leather, the weight belt is soft to the touch, yet flexible and sturdy enough for optimal support...
11. Best Nylon Weightlifting Belt: Fire Team Fit Weightlifting Belt
The Fire Team Fit nylon lifting belt is perfect for beginners and individuals who prefer functional training.
This nylon belt for weightlifting is comfortable to wear, helps maintain mobility, and offers solid exercise support. The smooth and convenient velcro weightlifting belt strap and slide stop buckle make it fast to take off and put on, while also allowing you to adjust precisely to the tightness you need.
You get 11 awesome colors and designs to choose from with this 6 inch nylon buckle belt making it one of the selling points.
Fire Team Fit offers a lifetime replacement guarantee, no questions asked and is a veteran-owned business that strives to keep the customers happy. They don't just talk the walk, Fire Team Fit donates $1 for every belt sold to the non-profit that supports US combat Veterans.
Pros
- Cool designs and colors
- Lifetime warranty
- Portion of the money goes towards non-profits
- Lightweight
- Precise adjustability with slide stop buckle
Cons
- Some users have bad experiences with the Velcro strap deteriorating quickly
Ease into every lift with this gym belt. Made from 100% genuine buffalo hide leather, the weight belt is soft to the touch, yet flexible and sturdy enough for optimal support...
The Top Rated Lifting Belts By Comparison:
We lined up our picks of the best lifting belts below so you can see how they compare to one another. We hope this helps you find a belt that suits your needs.
|
Product Name |
Price ($-$$$) |
Size (Thickness/width) |
Warranty |
Material |
Features
|
Average Rating |
|
$$ |
10 MM 4" |
100% Satisfaction Guarantee |
Suede leather Custom zinc plated steel double prongs |
Heavy Duty USPA & IPL Approved Gear Seven color options |
1,730 Reviews ★★★★.6 |
|
|
$-$$ |
10 MM 4" |
30 days |
Padded leather w/ interior foam cushioning & suede lining Dual prong & steel rollers |
4 or 6 inch wide options Available in four waist sizes Real leather with foam cushion |
7,154 Reviews ★★★★.6 |
|
|
$$ |
10 MM 4" |
30 days |
Suede leather Powder coated steel buckle Suede lining |
10 precision placed holes Approved by some of the largest lifting associations Rustproof steel lever clasp Industrial grade stitching |
1,712 Reviews ★★★★.5 |
|
|
$ |
NA 4" |
Lifetime Warranty |
100% Premium Nylon belt Full metal self-locking mechanism Velcro |
Self locking technology Quick release mechanism Approved for Olympic lifting competitions |
13,376 Reviews ★★★★.5 |
|
|
$$ |
NA 4" |
30 days |
Velcro Cordura Nylon |
WODClamp USAW compliant |
221 Reviews ★★★★.6 |
|
|
$ |
6 MM 4" |
60 days |
Genuine leather Matte black double metal prongs |
Built to last Double prong design won’t slip or fail |
653 Reviews ★★★★.5 |
|
|
$ |
7 MM 4" |
Gymreapers Replacement Guarantee-1 year |
Premium leather Matte black steel buckle and prongs Suede lining |
Belt carrying case included 4” tapered back Inner Suede lining to protect your skin |
2,028 Reviews ★★★★.5
|
|
|
$ |
NA 5" |
31 days |
Steel tensioning buckle Nylon Foam core |
Hook and loop fastening system Soft bound edges Hand washable and can be air dried |
NA |
|
|
$$ |
10 MM 4" |
1-year warranty |
Laminated cow leather exterior & split leather interior Stainless steel lock-in lever
|
Tuff Kote edging to seal the leather layers Seven adjustable holes |
4 Reviews ★★★★★ |
|
|
$$ |
4 MM 4" |
Register for a lifetime warranty |
100% genuine buffalo hide leather
|
USAPL Approved belt Soft to the touch Flexible & sturdy Red stitching |
20,058 Reviews ★★★★.7
|
|
|
$ |
N/A 6" |
Lifetime warranty |
Nylon Velcro |
Contoured design Veteran owned company Slide stop buckle |
6,733 Reviews ★★★★.5 |
Types Of Weightlifting Belts:
When looking for a weightlifting belt, you should first note that there are different types of belts that feature various designs and functions.
1. Cone Belt
This is not a very common belt design. Cone belts are designed to follow the natural curves of the torso. These belts are designed to be contoured on the sides but have thicker posterior and anterior sections.
2. Cylinder Lifting Belt
This type of belt is the most common style is it has the same width all the way around and covers the torso evenly. It is popular amongst powerlifters and heavy lifters as they support the torso with an even amount of material.
3. Tapered Weightlifting Belt
Everyday people and Olympic lifters tend to favor this style of weightlifting belt because it offers their posterior extra width and then thins out towards their core. The skinner part allows the abs to remain flexible while providing support.
Weightlifting Belt Buckle Mechanisms:
As with all belts there needs to be some type of locking system to make sure it stays in place while you move. Weightlifting belts can employ the use of different mechanisms that serve various purposes. Below are the most common types of belt buckle systems.
1. Lever
Lever belts are slightly different to the buckle options. They have a simple lever mechanism that locks and unlocks quickly. This makes them much easier to use for most people, but the design isn’t easily adjustable and can’t usually be used by more than one person. If you’re someone whose body weight adjusts frequently this type of belt can be pretty inconvenient.
2. Buckle
There are two types of buckles, single prong and double prong. Both are excellent choices, but if you’re worried about the prong failing during a lift we would recommend going with the double prong option. This mechanism is the most commonly used one for weightlifting belts as it provides a secure fit once locked into place and is very easy to adjust. It is less likely to fail during a lift as the forces are spread between the two prongs.
3. Ratchet
Ratchet belts aren’t very common but are one of the best designs when done correctly. The ratchet works similarly to the ones you would use to strap down a vehicle. This mechanism is excellent for getting a good fit and is highly adjustable. Having the best when it comes to tightness and adjustability means you will end up paying more for one of these belts.
4. Velcro
Velcro belts are a standard option for beginners, CrossFitters, and functional lifters. The reason behind this is that velcro belts are easy to take on and off, simple to adjust, and are typically cheaper options. A downside of velcro belts is that they usually don’t last very long before they need to be replaced.
What To Consider When Buying A Weightlifting Belt:
A few factors come into play when shopping for a new weightlifting belt, we covered the most important points below.
1. Usage
The training style you commit to dictates the best weight training belt for you. If your workouts consist primarily of powerlifting movements like deadlifts and squats, then you will need a different belt than someone focusing on CrossFit or Olympic weightlifting.
For the most part, more flexible materials and quick release mechanisms are better for functional movements, whereas stiffer materials and heavy-duty mechanisms are better for heavy compound movements.
2. Build Quality
Weightlifting belts can get expensive quickly, but repairing and replacing parts can get costly and frustrating.
So, instead of wasting money on a cheap belt, choose better options with high-quality materials (i.e. leather lifting belts) and sturdy mechanisms.
These better-quality belts can offer improved longevity and comfortability that improve your workouts and help you to achieve new personal records.
3. Thickness/Width
You’ll see many articles that state how thick a weight belt should be; we believe that it comes down to your personal preference and what you’re willing to deal with. Nylon belts are typically thinner than a leather belt, which offers less rigidity and durability.
When buying belts, we highly recommend that when you buy a belt, the stated thickness actually lines up with the thickness of your belt. We have seen reviews that state that some belts will be listed at a certain thickness and the product doesn’t line up with it.
If you’re someone who competes and has to comply with a set of rules you need to make sure that your belt is legal and that you will be able to use it in competition.
When looking at the width of the belt you’re wanting to buy, the most significant things to keep in mind are the length and size of your torso. Athletes with shorter torsos don't need a wider belt, while taller people would benefit from a wider belt’s additional stability.
4. Materials
Typically belts for strength training are made from a few main materials, leather, nylon and Neoprene.
You sometimes see a blend of materials like cloth and foam to cover the outside of the belts, but mainly you'll find the core are leather and nylon belts. Leather is a durable and thicker material that will require a break in period for the leather belt to fit you perfectly. A leather belt for weight training also typically need to be cleaned and maintained to avoid damage and keep it looking new.
Nylon doesn’t need to be broken in but doesn’t become as form-fitting as leather. Nylon belts are easier to maintain and are perfect for lifts that require just a little bit of bendability.
5. Fastening mechanism
Lifting belts can add more variety to the mix by having different fastening mechanisms. Each mechanism has its strengths and weaknesses.
When deciding what is best for you, it comes down to what works best for you. For example, if you’re looking for a quick-release mechanism, then a ratchet or velcro belt would be best for you.
6. Price
Weight training belts can range significantly in price depending on the brand and type of belt.
You have to ask yourself does the cost of the belt line up with the value it offers? If the belt is built with higher quality materials and comes from a reputable brand, then you can expect to pay $150+ for these kinds of belts.
We have a hard time recommending these types of belts because there are so many reasonably priced, high-quality belts on the market now and it makes it hard to recommend more pricey options.
Benefits Of Weightlifting Belts:
A lifting belt is a piece of equipment that you'll see many serious lifters use for certain exercises because they provide a few important benefits. Let's look below at some of the awesome benefits belts can provide.
1. Increase Intra-Abdominal Pressure
The main purpose of a lifting belt is to lower tension and stress on the lower back by compacting the abdominal cavity. This is intra-abdominal pressure creates more support for the bones in the lower back. Reducing the stress and tension on the lower back can help to mitigate potential injuries.
A training belt gives you something to brace your core against and gives you a cue to maintain your core pressure throughout the lift. It is worth noting that a belt is an accessory to your workout, not a requirement for proper core bracing.
Since you are bracing your core against the belt, you’re also less likely to suffer a back injury. So you’re less likely to suffer a back injury, but remember that a belt doesn’t directly prevent these injuries.
2. More Awareness
Another side benefit of using a lifting belt is that it allows people to really feel and be cognizant of how their body's muscles are being engaged throughout a lift that involves the lower back.
For some, this may be a placebo effect but if it helps people maintain better form when lifting then it's a good thing. The downside of this is that some lifters feel overconfident due to the presence of the belt therefore they try to lift weights that might be too heavy.
3. Prevents Hyperextension
Having a snug lifting belt on when doing deadlifts of squats can help to add stability to the lower torso which can lower the chances of hyperextending the back as it slightly reduces the movement in all directions.
4. Enhance Stability & Support
Weight lifting belts also help to maintain better technique and increase stability while lifting heavy weights. However, belts are not a magical device to increase your one rep maxes, they are accessories/tools that support your lifts.
How To Wear A Weightlifting Belt:
There is a right and wrong way to put on a weight belt. So you can’t just strap it on and expect to get the full benefits associated with wearing a belt. Just like everything else in life you will need to practice putting on and taking off your belt.
For those that need help, here is a short and quick guide on how to wear a lifting belt during your lifts.
a) Finding the Right Position Around Your Waist
Finding the right spot for the belt to sit is essential, ideally your belt should sit right above your hip bone. When positioned correctly it should make contact with all sides of your torso and not pinch you. If it is pinching your sides or restricting your movements in any way, then it may not be in the correct position. Adjust the belt up or down until these problems no longer persist.
b) Properly Tightening Your Belt
After you have found the right place to position your belt, you want to ensure that the belt is tightly secured to your body but not to the point where you can’t breathe and brace yourself. Leave enough room for your stomach to expand and create the right amount of tension to brace against the belt. A good rule for this is that you should be able to stick your index finger or thumb between the belt and your torso.
c) Breathing & Bracing Technique
To brace your core muscles fully, you need to take a deep breath into your belly and flex your core and lower back into the belt. You want to try and hold this position for the entirety of the lift, if you’re unable to hold it then catch your breath at the top of the movement and reset. Without proper breathing and bracing techniques, a belt cannot be an effective training tool.
Weightlifting Belt FAQs:
What Is The Best Weightlifting Belt?
A good weightlifting belt is going to be the one that is best suited for your workout needs.
This may seem like a vague answer, but it does depend on your needs.
One belt may work perfectly for what you need it for, while another will hinder your performance. For example, a powerlifter would benefit more from a belt that is thicker and slightly more rigid due to its increased support.
Whereas an Olympic lifter would prefer a belt that is more flexible and less intrusive. Then you also have Olympic and functional lifters who prefer belts that are easy to put on/take off and are more flexible.
For what it's worth, we chose the Iron Bull Weightlifting Belt as our top pick due to the design, comfort and performance.
What’s The Best Material For A Weightlifting Belt?
Strength training belts come in a variety of different materials, with the most common being made from leather or nylon. Most belts are made from these two materials for good reasons.
Nylon belts are cheaper and perfect for functional weightlifting and CrossFit workouts. This is mainly due to nylon belts supporting and engaging your core without being bulky and cumbersome. They are also lower profile and are usually easy to put on and take off.
Leather belts tend to offer more support and are fantastic for maximum effort lifts, Olympic lifts, strongman, and powerlifting. They do tend to last longer as leather is better suited to withstand the abuse from lots of heavy workouts.
We really don't recommend any other weightlifting belts.
Is a thicker belt better for lifting?
Yes and no. Thicker belts, like the SPD belt for powerlifting, are better because they tend to be more robust, last longer, and are incredibly rigid. Which makes them perfect for heavy lifts that need that extra support.
However, the extra thickness can be not beneficial because they tend to be more challenging to break in, heavier, more difficult to put on/take off, and sometimes can cut into your sides.
We recommend finding a belt that is designed for your specific training purposes.
What Does A Weightlifting Belt Do?
A lifting belt is a fantastic lifting accessory that can aid in increasing intra-abdominal pressure and can teach you how to promote proper core engagement.
These two benefits make it easier to maintain stabilization throughout your core, while also maintaining good lifting techniques throughout your lifts.
Belts are typically the most beneficial during heavy lifting and exercises that engage your spinal erectors, resulting in higher success rates during lifts.
When Should You Use A Weightlifting Belt?
While a weightlifting belt isn’t necessary for any movement, there are times when a lifter should reach out for a lifting belt to stabilize and create additional abdominal pressure.
A lifting belt can be worn during heavy one-rep maxes, heavy sets, and sports-specific strength movements. Some people should also consider wearing a belt for high-volume workouts too.
Whether you wear a belt or not comes down to your personal preference and if you have a great understanding of proper form.
Do Weightlifting Belts Protect Your Back from Injury?
There is this common belief that a weightlifting belt can protect your back from injury during heavy lifts. This is due to a belt increasing your core stability and activation around your spine.
Unfortunately, no concrete evidence or studies prove this theory to be true.
We can confidently say that a lifting belt is not beneficial or very supportive when the spinal erectors are not under heavy loads or resistance.
So there is no point in using a weight belt if you’re doing light work or exercises that don’t involve the back and core—for example, lat pulldowns, hamstring curls or biceps curls.
Do Lifting Belts Make You immediately Stronger?
The short answer is no, weightlifting belts aren’t magical, and just like any other lifting accessory should be used with realistic expectations. They don’t automatically allow your body to do something it isn’t prepared for, so don’t expect to be able to add a ton of weight to your one-rep maxes.
Instead, use your belt as a tool to aid in increasing your core stabilization and stability to perfect proper lifting form.
Should Beginners Use A Weightlifting Belt?
As a beginner should you use a weightlifting belt, really it depends on the situation you’re in. If you are just starting your lifting journey, we recommend that you focus on mastering your form and proper mechanics before investing in a weight training belt.
There are a couple of situations where a beginning weight training athlete might need a lifting belt. For example, if you are a beginner powerlifter or strength athlete a belt can benefit you for specific aspects of your sport and help you prepare for competition.
Will Training With A Weightlifting Belt Make My Core Weak?
Depending on who you talk to, especially if it is a powerlifting purist, they think that lifting belts will make your cores weaker or are a way of cheating yourself. Luckily, neither of these ideologies is even remotely close to the truth.
If you can learn how to use a belt correctly, you will not only maintain your core strength but you can actually build up core strength in the process.
SUMMARY: WHICH WEIGHTLIFTING BELT IS BEST?
There are articles and coaches on the internet who shun lifting belts, but in our opinion lifting belts are actually tools that when used correctly can be incredibly effective and help you achieve new lifting PRs. Lifting belts are a tool just like weightlifting shoes, foam rollers, supplements, or lifting suits.
They have their function, but you have to make sure you know why you’re using them and practice using them beforehand so that you can be sure to be safe exercising. Of course, we have the other side of the argument, you shouldn’t be wearing a belt for every single exercise as you will become reliant on using it.
To wrap up this article, lifting belts can be an excellent option for competitors and more advanced lifters, or if you are looking to push yourself in a hard training session and hit some personal records.
We hope this post on the best weightlifting belts helped you hone in on the perfect option that suits your needs.
Make sure you do your research before buying, bookmark this article, and use your new lifting belt as a tool to benefit your training.
As a final recap, here our our top picks for the best belts for weightlifting:
- Overall Best Lifting Belt: Iron Bull Weightlifting Belt
- Best for Budget: Harbinger Weightlifting Belt
- Best Powerlifting Belt: RDX Powerlifting Belt
- Best Crossfit Belt: E26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt
- Best Olympic Belt: 2POOD Weightlifting Belt
- Best Squat Belt: Gymreapers 6MM Weightlifting Belt
- Best Deadlift Belt: Gymreapers 7MM Weightlifting Belt
- Best Belt For Women: Lift Tech Foam Belt
- Best Lever Belt: Titan Powerlifting Lever Belt
- Best Leather Lifting Belt: Dark Iron Weightlifting Belt
- Best Nylon Lifting Belt: Fire Team Fit Weightlifting Belt
More Best Lifting Gear Roundups:
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Kiel DiGiovanni
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