Best Weightlifting Belts
Lever, prong or velcro? 10 mm or 13 mm? Here's how to choose a lifting belt that fits your training.
Lifting Belts and Accessories
1. Types of Lifting Belts
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lever belt | Fast on/off, very tight | Need a tool to adjust size | Powerlifting, heavy squats |
| Single/double prong | Easy to adjust between holes | Slower to tighten | Powerlifting, general strength |
| Velcro / nylon | Flexible, quick, comfortable | Less rigid support | Olympic lifting, CrossFit |
| Tapered leather | Comfortable in bent positions | Less support at the front | Bodybuilding, general use |
2. Thickness and Width
- 10 mm: rigid support that's comfortable for most lifters
- 13 mm: maximum stiffness for advanced powerlifters
- 4 inch width: the max allowed in most powerlifting federations
- Uniform width supports the whole torso; tapered belts allow more movement
3. How to Size a Lifting Belt
Measure around your waist at belly-button level, where you'll wear the belt, not your pants size. Choose a belt where your measurement falls in the middle of the size range so you can tighten or loosen as needed.
Shop Training Accessories4. Breaking In a Leather Belt
New leather belts can feel stiff and dig into your sides. Roll the belt tightly in both directions, wear it during lighter sets and give it a few weeks of regular use. It will gradually mold to your body. Nylon and velcro belts need no break-in period but offer less rigidity.
5. Lifting Belt Care
Wipe sweat off leather belts after training and let them air dry away from direct heat. Store them flat or rolled loosely. Clean nylon belts with mild soap and water. A quality belt can last many years.
6. Best Belt by Training Style
Powerlifters typically choose a 10 or 13 mm leather lever or prong belt with uniform 4-inch width for maximum rigidity on squats and deadlifts. Olympic weightlifters often prefer a slimmer leather or nylon belt that allows more movement in the hips and torso. CrossFit athletes and general lifters tend to like velcro belts that go on and off quickly between movements. Bodybuilders often use tapered belts for comfort in bent-over positions.
If you do a mix of training, a 10 mm prong belt is a versatile all-rounder.
7. Lifting Belt Price Guide
Velcro belts are the cheapest option. Leather prong and lever belts cost more, with premium hand-made belts at the top end. A quality leather belt is a long-term investment that can last a decade or more.
8. Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Don't choose a belt based on your pants size, since you wear a lifting belt higher on the torso. Measure around your belly button and pick the size where you fall in the middle of the range. If you're between sizes, choose based on whether you're gaining or losing weight.
Final Thoughts
The best weightlifting belt for most strength athletes is a 10 mm, 4 inch leather lever or prong belt. Velcro belts suit Olympic lifting and functional fitness. Size it at your navel, break it in, and use it for your heaviest sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a lever or prong belt better?
- Both give the same support. Levers are faster to put on; prongs are easier to adjust if your weight changes.
- Is 10 mm or 13 mm better?
- 10 mm suits most lifters. 13 mm is stiffer and preferred by some advanced powerlifters.
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