Click to Skip Ad
Closing in...

Best Weightlifting Belt

Published Jun 17th, 2020 4:12PM EDT

If you buy through a BGR link, we may earn an affiliate commission, helping support our expert product labs.

Trying to beat your max weight in the gym when you’re lifting will give anybody a rush of adrenaline. You can often times feel the blood coursing through your veins as you reach down deep to try and accomplish another feat. If you’re looking for a personal best in exercises such as deadlifts, squats, cleans, lunges, or thrusts, you should consider stabilizing your back with a weightlifting belt. This will protect your back from straining as much as you reach and push your body for that extra rep of a higher weight. Often times when we are trying to max out during training, we tend to do all we can to get through an exercise, such as twisting or flexing your muscles more than they should be. If you’re wearing a weightlifting belt, your body will be more supported while trying to get to your new goal. We’ve broken down some of the best belts on the market to help you achieve your new personal best.

For those who are handling serious weight

Best for Heavy Weights
Dark Iron Fitness Weightlifting Belt

Durable and adjustable to better fit you, the Dark Iron Fitness Genuine Leather Pro Weight Lifting Belt is great for both men and women. This belt is IPF- and USAPL-approved and does not break down when you are lifting even 500 or 600 pounds. This comes in five different sizes, ranging all the way from waist size 23″ to 49″. This is made from genuine buffalo leather that won’t tear, rip, or wear out. It is designed to be supple, soft, and flexible, eliminating any pain from it digging into your hips or back. This is the right thickness and weight to support your back and your core, especially your abs.

Key Features:

  • IPF- and USAPL-approved
  • Works even when you’re lifting 500 or 600 pounds
  • Designed to be supple, soft, and flexible
Amazon Logo Available on Amazon

Don’t worry about locking it yourself

Best Self-Locking Belt

You’ll be impressed with how well the Element 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting Belt fits. This uses self-locking technology that won’t wear down and risk you injuring yourself. It releases immediately upon pulling the release roller but it won’t ever open or slip even if you’re lifting heavy weights. This is made from 100% nylon with a full metal self-locking buckle. It was a designed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy to provide a constant, intra-abdominal pressure to better stabilize yourself while you’re working out. It is available in five sizes and four colors. It is approved for USAW and Functional Fitness competitions.

Key Features:

  • Self-locking belt that won’t slip or open without you pulling the release roller
  • Made from 100% nylon with a full metal buckle
  • Provides consistent pressure to stabilize
Amazon Logo Available on Amazon

For those who have a thin waist

Best for Thinner Lifters

Trying to build up bulk, no matter what size you are, is made easier with the help of the RitFit Weight Lifting Belt. This is ergonomically designed to provide firm and comfortable lumbar support. The foam core is waterproof with a brushed tricot lining and soft bound edges to fit snugly. This will reduce spinal flexion creating safer biomechanics when lifting. It comes in multiple sizes, including the small that fits someone with a 22″ waist. The XXL size goes all the way up to 59″ waists. This is ideal for squats, deadlifts, thrusts, and lunges.

Key Features:

  • Ergonomically designed to provide lumbar support
  • Waterproof core
  • Fits waists between 22″ and 59″
Amazon Logo Available on Amazon

Help ensure stability and balance

Best for Stability and Balance

You never want to be off kilter when you’re lifting. The ProFitness Genuine Leather Workout Belt will help ensure that you keep your balance and stability throughout your set. You’ll keep proper form and will reduce injuries. Each belt is made from 4″ wide genuine leather that is comfortable, adjustable, and won’t ride. Your lumbar will be properly supported as will your core. Back injuries will be prevented and there are four sizes to choose from.

Key Features:

  • 4″ wide genuine leather
  • Properly supporting your lumbar and core
  • Ensures stability and balance
Amazon Logo Available on Amazon

Choose your thickness

Best Size Variety

With multiple options for both size and thickness, the Harbinger Padded Leather Contoured Weightlifting Belt will fit you well. There are five different sizes that you can choose from and two different thicknesses. You can pick small, medium, large, x-large, and XX-large and go with a 4″ thick belt or a 6″ thick one. The interior foam cushioning and suede lining offers enhanced comfort. The belt is double stitched for durability and the heavy-duty, dual prong steel roller buckle will secure it to your body.

Key Features:

  • Five sizes and two thicknesses
  • Interior foam cushioning and suede lining for comfort
  • Double stitched for durability
Amazon Logo Available on Amazon
Chris Hachey Commerce Editor

Chris Hachey is Senior Commerce Editor for BGR. With over a decade of editing and journalism experience, plus thousands of hours of product testing and research, he has helped millions of consumers find the best products and deals to fit their lifestyles.

When he's not searching for top deals, he's likely watching his favorite sports teams or walking around his hometown with his wife and his dog.