Weightlifting belts fall into one of two camps: those who believe that wearing a belt improves performance and allows for more weight to be lifted, thus making the workout better; others think going raw is best.
When used correctly, a weightlifting belt can be beneficial when you lift heavy weights.
Lifting heavy weights requires stability and support. A weightlifting belt helps you achieve both by adding intra-abdominal pressure to your back.
After years of training with and without a belt, we've created this guide to help people understand what weightlifting belts are used for and which are best.
How We Choose the Best Weightlifting Belt
The best weightlifting belt is one that is durable and comfortable. There are a few different types on the market, and they all have pros and cons, so to enable you to break it down, I have spent countless hours reading through thousands of user reviews and star ratings to find the best products out there for the best weight lifting belts.
Dark Iron Fitness Weightlifting Belt
The Dark Iron Fitness Weightlifting Belt is designed to give you complete support as you engage in strength training.
These belts are made of premium buffalo hide leather, which means they won't break or tear under pressure and will last you up to the competition.
The Dark Iron Fitness belt is one of the toughest in their line. It has a 600-pound weight capacity and is 4 millimeters thick, which provides comfort. The company claims this leather belt can boost your power by up to 10 percent and eliminate back pain, if you work hard enough.
The Dark Iron Fitness Weightlifting Leather Belt might have a similar width to the Ohio Rogue, but at just 4mm thick—making it about half as heavy and stiff right out of the box, this is worth considering if you're looking for something lightweight.
Why Clients Love It
Customers love this belt because it provides excellent support during lifts and training sessions, giving you instant relief from lower back pain. This product is made of high-quality leather that lasts for years, not months like some other brands' belts!
Customers love that it goes on and off easily and fits perfectly. They say ‘The belt's double stitching and sturdy buckle made it very secure, and I never had to adjust it during squat sets. The edges of the leather dug into my skin a bit, though.
What You Should Know
- 100% Leather Gym Belts for Weightlifting
- 4mm thick genuine cowhide leather
- 4" wide for full lower back support
- weigh is 0.7 kilograms
- Package Dimensions L x W x H12.8 x 4.25 x 1.25 inches
Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt
The Harbinger 4-inch Nylon Weightlifting belt is ideal for beginning weightlifters who want more support and stability in their workouts. (But hey, no cows were harmed while making this product!)
Although powerlifters and Olympic competitors don't usually wear nylon belts, for semi-serious lifters, there are so many advantages to using synthetic models.
Harbinger's 346-count nylon web flexes around your waist for maximum comfort and has a heavy gauge steel buckle that's easy to adjust. Leather isn't the only option to find gym shorts with support, either—you can quickly get enough core strength from artificial materials as well.
Harbinger keeps things simple with this weightlifting belt, and it's a bargain at less than $30.
The 4-inch strap is adjustable via a 3-inch support Strap on this nylon belt, so you can adjust it to fit your wrist no matter what size. The other straps use Velcro and roller buckles instead of prongs, making velcro belts more customizable than their traditional counterparts.
Why Clients Love It
The belt's quality and durability have made it a favorite among customers. These buyers were initially concerned that the Velcro would come undone while they lifted heavy weights, but the product exceeded their expectations by resisting such strain.
The belt is well-made and sturdy. It's very comfortable and supports the lower back well when heavy lifting.
What You Should Know
- Features an extra-wide 3-inch support strap
- Parallel lines of 346-count nylon stitching run the entire belt length
- Constructed from thick, flexible heavy-duty nylon web which provides maximum comfort and Durability
- Available in four waist sizes: S (24-29 inches), M (29-33 inches), L (33-37 inches), XL (37-42 inches)
- Made from nylon material
- Weighs 0.36kg
DMoose Dip Belt with Chain
The DMoose Dip Belt helps you power through any upper-body workout. If you've never used one before, it works like this: wrap the belt around your torso and attach a dumbbell or weight plate to its built-in chain.
By attaching a band to your ankles and anchoring the other end to something sturdy, you add extra resistance as your body swings through its natural movements.
Constructed from sweat-resistant neoprene that's been stitched tightly together to ensure it won't come unraveled, this weight belt is 6 inches wide in its center—adding padding and support for your lower back as you raise and lower yourself.
Dip belts are an underrated piece of workout equipment that work well for strength training, but they're most effective when used with a power tower. (When used properly, the DMoose Dip Belt can help you improve your posture.)
Why Clients Love It
Customers love the belt because it's comfortable and long enough for you to pass through with weights attached. It is perfect if you like using calisthenics weighted belts; this one won't stretch out immediately or break under pressure.
What You Should Know
- Made from 100% Neoprene
- A heavy-duty dip belt with extra strong chains and D rings.
- 33" long strap with 36" Chain length
- Six inches wide from the center and 4 inches on either side.
- Strong and saddle stitching
- This tool is adjustable to fit all sizes.
- A wide back design supports the user's weight more evenly.
- Long-lasting and tear-free
Gymreapers Quick-Locking Weightlifting Belt
This adjustable lifting belt is designed with a single-width design to provide optimal support and drive performance. Once you've secured the locking mechanism, you'll feel the difference.
Gymreapers lever weightlifting belt has been used in competition and is well suited for various sports, including Olympic lifting, bodybuilding, and powerlifting.
This lever weightlifting belt will help you stay supported through heavy cleans and snatches or grueling, fast-paced workouts and competitions.
The lightweight, adjustable lifting belt is perfect for athletes looking to get rid of bulky weight belts and level up their game.
The lever weightlifting belt is made from 100% high-grade nylon materials and has a quick locking heavy-duty buckle and reinforced stitching—so it can stand up to the most challenging workouts. If you are unsatisfied with your Gymreapers quick locking belt, they will replace it for free.
Why Clients Love It
The little skull logo is a hit with customers; the belt fits well and is comfortable to wear. It is also reported to be durable, and cutomers would recommend it. This brand makes high-quality products that are stylish as well as functional.
What You Should Know
- 100% Nylon fabric, the best available on the market.
- A buckle, designed to be easy and quick to use, provides a snug fit.
- It measures 4 inches from edge to edge.
- The heavy-duty stitching ensures the longevity of this product.
- This olympic weightlifting belt is designed and built for competition.
2POOD Straight Weightlifting Belt
The Velcro closure on the 2POOD WOD belt makes it easy to transition from heavy lifting to gymnastics or cardio movements during your workout. The Velcro is powerful and will maintain a tight grip even during heavy lifts—unlike other belts with less durable closures.
Although the roller adjustment is tricky, you can get a tight fit without it. The belt's higher price point—it costs around $65 where most belts are less—is partly due to its durability: 2POOD belts should last for years on end.
Besides being known for their durability in high-intensity, high-volume, high-load settings (where they've been proven to hold up as well—or better!—than leather belts) that are great as a crossfit weightlifting belt, 2POOD also has a reputation for designing silly and inspirational belt images that are sure to make you smile.
If you're the kind of lifter who must have the best outfits in the gym, having a 2POOD weightlifting belt in your gear closet is one way to do
The 2POOD belt, made of thick nylon with a foam core, is tough enough for CrossFit. The constant rep counts and adjustments this training entails make Velcro the best option and that's why I chose
Why Clients Love It
Customers are delighted with this product. It is lightweight, supports them well during their workouts, and they appreciate its materials' adjustable and high-quality feel.
This belt fits nicely on them.
What You Should Know
- Its a 4-inch Wide and Built for Flexibility, support, and to aid Cross Trainers
- It has a buckle, hook, and loop closure type
- Its color is black
- Made of nylon
FAQs
Are you looking for a weightlifting belt that's strong, durable, and comfortable?
Wouldn't that be ideal?
While the above meet the specifications, I've answered some of your most common questions below so that you are armed with all the info you need when shopping.'
What is the best weightlifting belt?
A thick supportive belt is best for powerlifters, Olympic weightlifters, and CrossFit athletes with heavy lifting.
For most other strength sports (bodybuilding), or general fitness training, the use of back support belts are unnecessary, and one should focus on core work instead to maintain good posture.
If you take your weightlifting seriously then a pair of weightlifting gloves could also enhance your performance, check out my blog Best Weightlifting Gloves To Help You Train Like A Pro.
Do I have to use a lifting belt for heavy weights?
No, you don't have to use a lifting belt for heavy weights. However, using a lifting belt can help you lift heavier weights and increase your strength.
A lifting belt helps to support your lower back and abdominal muscles when lifting heavy weights.
This increases the pressure on these muscles, which can help you lift more weight and achieve stronger muscle contractions.
Lifting belts are also a great way to prevent injuries and protect your lower back when lifting heavy weights.
Do weightlifting belts work?
The best weightlifting belts can help prevent injuries by supporting your abdominal muscles and lower back.
Wearing a belt while weightlifting can help you lift heavier weights, as it allows you to build up intra-abdominal pressure—thus giving something for your abs to push against during the eccentric (or "negative") part of any given exercise.
So if you're looking to improve your lifts, a weightlifting belt is definitely worth the investment.
What's the best material used for a weightlifting belt?
The best material for a weightlifting belt is the one that provides the most support and fits comfortably.
There are many types of materials that can be used to make a weightlifting belt, but the most popular material is leather. Leather is strong and durable, and it can provide a lot of support and stability.
Other materials that can be used include nylon, cloth, and plastic.
When choosing a weightlifting belt, it's important to make sure that it fits comfortably.
The belt should be tight enough to provide support, but not so tight that it's uncomfortable to wear. When deciding between a leather belt or nylon, it's best to consider where you'll use the belt: if you lift weights often and want something that will last for years, opt for a leather belt.
You should also consider the type of fastening you prefer, lever belt, prong belt or velcro belt.
What does a weightlifting belt do?
Weightlifting belts can help you lift more by increasing pressure in and around your abdomen and reminding your body to engage its core muscles.
Maintaining a stable core and good lifting technique becomes easier when you load up the bar, so your chances of completing a lift increase. In contrast, your chance of injury theoretically decreases.
What is the belt that bodybuilders use?
The belt that bodybuilders use is intended to help them lift heavier weights. When you lift a weight, your abdominal muscles and lower back contract to keep the weight stable. The belt helps these muscles work more effectively by providing them with some extra support.
The belt also helps protect your spine from injuries. By keeping your abdomen and lower back muscles strong, the belt can help prevent strains or tears in these muscles.
This can be especially important when you are lifting very heavy weights.
Weightlifting belts are commonly used by people who lift weights to support their lower back during heavy lifts, such as deadlifts, overhead presses, and squats.
How thick should a weightlifting belt be?
A belt should be 6.5mm in thickness for Olympic weightlifters, bodybuilders, and general gym-goers—but 10mm if you're a powerlifter or advanced bodybuilder.
When should I buy a lifting belt?
Most experts recommend that lifters use a belt when they can squat or deadlift 1.5 times their body weight—but this isn't always the case. For example, you might need one earlier if your core strength is weaker than average (or further along in pregnancy)
How much money should I spend on a weightlifting belt?
You should spend at least $100 on a belt. A good one will last you a lifetime and is well worth the investment—especially if you like doing heavy-duty lifting! Amazon for an excellent 3" weightlifting belt with a single-prong buckle.
Should the lifting belt be tight?
It depends on what you're trying to accomplish. If you're looking to lift heavier weights, then a tighter belt will help you do heavy lifts by providing more support.
However, if your goal is to improve your overall strength and endurance, then a looser belt will be better because it will allow you to move and breathe more naturally.
In general, it's best to experiment with different belt tightness levels to see what works best for you. Some people prefer a very tight belt, while others find that a loose belt gives them the most freedom of movement and breathing.
Just make sure that whatever belt you choose is comfortable enough so that it doesn't interfere with your lifting form or breathing.
Conclusion
So which weightlifting belt is the best? Here, we've gone over some products that can help you with your weightlifting belt. We've narrowed the search for you, so you can finally find the best for your needs. Choosing a product you'll be happy with can be challenging.
To aid your decision-making process, we recommend reading up on these various variables (and what they mean). With this knowledge, you may be better prepared to choose a product that will work for your unique situation. And if you follow the above advice, you're sure to find a belt that feels perfectly fitted. This will maximize its effectiveness and ensure years of trouble-free use.
All the weightlifting belts above are available on Amazon, so click 'Check price on Amazon' to see which weightlifting belt works best for you.
