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Best Weightlifting Belts in 2021

Ben Coleman
Your guide to this review today is by fitness expert Ben Coleman
Published June 21, 2018
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

You’re a man of efficiency, trying to get every last ounce of result out of your workout whether you’re at home or the Gym. What we know is that it’s not just about working out hard, it’s about being intelligent when you do it. Weightlifting belts are the great bridge between you, and the six pack or tight back muscles you’ve always dreamed of. Champion weightlifters use them, and men who wish to add extra oomph into their regular workout regimen make them apart of their lives. If you’re ready to feel the burn, it’s time to check out the best weightlifting belts on the market.

The Best Weightlifting Belt

1
Dark Iron Fitness Leather Weightlifting Belt

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Leather is the name of the game, and Dark Iron is the biggest player. Leather is superior for just about everything, but especially weightlifting belts. In fact, this build is so damn tough, that Dark Iron guarantees it for life. That’s right, they want you to put this thing through hell and back, and come out scathed, scarred, but unbroken on the other side. You’re rated to lift and squat with up to 600lbs before this thing feels it, all without digging into your sides like lifting belts have notoriously done in the past. Nobody did it better than Dark Iron, and we can’t wait to see how beautifully this thick leather ages. This is our best weightlifting belt (best choice).

You may also like these quality waist trainers from our list. Take a moment to check them out.

Key Features:

Made of genuine leather without digging into your hips

Rated to hold up to 600lbs of pressure from deadlifts and squats

Lifetime replacements: if it breaks, its on them

Specification:
  • BrandDark Iron Fitness
  • Weight1.9 pounds
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Fire Team Fit Olympic Weightlifting Belt

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Your lower back and abdomen have never felt this level of support. Thanks to the excellent velcro clasp, even if you peak at a weight the belt can’t handle, you won’t be confined and constrained. Velcro is great for the closure because if the belt sustains too much weight, the closure opens, keeping you from injuring yourself. It’s all about supporting your body, while compressing those lower abdomen muscles to burn the maximum workout possible. Fire Team Fit makes it a little more exciting, with six styles to choose from, as well as a gentle weave in the fabric that contours to specific pressure points along your torso. 

Key Features:

Stabilizes your lower lumbar for additional safety

Excellent durability on the velcro closure

Available in multiple sizes and six designs

Specification:
  • BrandFire Team Fit
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Harbinger Padded Leather Weightlifting Belt

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Additional padding keeps your lower lumbar safe, while the durable construction keeps you in perfect form to prevent injuries, and push yourself to the limits. Dual prong roller buckles keep Harbinger Padded Leather Contoured Weightlifting Belt on, even under heavy conditions, while the 6” width aids in stabilization from start to finish. If comfort is your main concern, don’t worry: Harbinger took care of that. There’s a foam and suede lining, giving you some serious comfort when you need it the most. You’ll be able to keep a close fit, but do keep in mind to look at their sizing chart, and not to go by the size of your pants. Users rave about this belt for keeping your posture strong, without making you feel constricted like a cobra’s prey. If you are looking to upgrade your weightlifting equipment even more, then make sure you read our weightlifting shoes review.

Key Features:

Genuine leather composition

Foam cushioning and suede lining for enhanced comfort

Adjustable buckles to fit all shapes and sizes

Contoured design for a perfect fit

Specification:
  • BrandHarbinger
  • Weight14.4 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Harbinger Weightlifting Belt

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Harbinger tries their best to appeal to each body type, and they’ve done a bang-up job with their flexible core model. For one, you get the namesake’s excellent foam padding along the interior of the belt, allowing you to feel comfort along with your support. Thanks to the 5” width on the lower lumbar support, coupled with the 3” adjustment strap, you’re able to slide this to fit from a 30” waist to a 42” waist. If that’s not your style, then don’t worry: they have them in various sizes, all the way down to 29”, so you’re able to experience their superior construction and unbelievable comfort, no matter what size you’re rocking. Make sure to also check out our list of the best barbell collars, for more great weightlifting related products.

Key Features:

Ultralight composition for those who prefer the non-leather options

Wide back design for more comfortable support on the back

Suitable for longer workouts

Various sizes on offer

Specification:
  • BrandHarbinger
  • Model23340
  • Weight8 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Flexz Fitness Weightlifting Belt

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Powerlifters, rejoice; you’re able to grab this in a few different colors, and it looks boss no matter which one you go with. Comfort is one of the biggest things you need to pay attention to, which is why Flexz put suede lining inside, and durable stitching along the exterior. It’s not just about the material, it’s ensuring that material isn’t going to shift around majorly while you’re using the belt. This also comes USAPL and IPF compliant, making it a stellar belt for weightlifting competitions around the country. Flexa also slapped a lifetime warranty on this belt, with a no-hassle return policy that makes them one of the most customer-oriented companies on this list. Make sure it is always handy, in your gym bag, when you hit the gym.

Key Features:

Comes with a no-hassle lifetime guarantee

USAPL and IPF compliant belts

Heavy duty stitching and a comfortable suede lining

Specification:
  • BrandFlexz Fitness
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
ProFitness Genuine Leather Workout Belt

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Splitting down the center of our list, ProFitness comes at you with a weightlifting belt that’s designed for more uses than you’d think. First of all, you’ll be able to use this for CrossFit, deadlifting, squat racks, and more, all thanks to the moveable and durable 4” leather construction. You get a ton of different adjustment loops, making this extremely versatile, even if you’re going to toss it over to your mate before finishing up for the day. ProFitness doesn’t smack a grand warranty on it, but within the first sixty days, you can get a 100% money-back refund if you’re not feeling it with this belt. From the sturdy leather to the excellent buckle, it’s a fortified belt if we’ve ever seen one. This can come in handy if you like to exercise on the adjustable workout bench.

Key Features:

Ultra sturdy brushed buckle closures

4” leather width for optimal back support

Sixty day full money-back guarantee

Specification:
  • BrandProFitness
  • Weight12 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
RitFit Weightlifting Belt

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RitFit isn’t using leather, but they’re using everything they’ve got to make this one of the most adjustable and flexible weightlifting belts on the market. If you’re a big and tall gent, you’ll have a great time fitting into this snugly, without causing too much constriction on your midsection. RitFit has been seen as a low-quality brand at first glance (usually under the misconception that you need leather to be good), but once you slip this on, the quality is going to amaze you. You get a lifetime warranty from RitFit, who aims to be the only weightlifting belt you’ll ever need. Apart from the quality, we also fell in love with the price. Be sure to also check out our list of the best knee sleeves for more great items like this. 

Key Features:

6” wide waterproof foam core

Lifetime warranty straight from the manufacturer

Excellent diverse fit for bulkier gents

Specification:
  • BrandRitFit
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Iron Bull Strength Weightlifting Belt

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We’re winding down our list, but Iron Bull keeps the momentum going with their ultra durable leather weightlifting belt. You get plenty of support from the 4” wide, 10mm thick leather build, while also getting to choose from one of five unique colors/styles. This leather belt doesn’t come with velcro, but it does have over a dozen loops with a strong double prong closure, allowing you to utilize the stabilization for just about any body type. Durable to hold your spine in place, comfortable to keep your sides from chafing, and a whole lot of style to keep your confidence nice and boosted while you’re at the gym or your own home gym. Iron Bull delivers. Period.

Key Features:

4” wide, 10mm thick leather construction

Durable and adjustable double prong loops

Comes in five different styles, each supporting you through your lifting

Specification:
  • BrandIron Bull Strength
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Ader Leather Power Lifting Weight Belt

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Parting is such sweet sorrow, but we’re leaving you with a real gem that comes at an affordable price range. Ader Sporting Goods brings us a double-stitched leather belt, complete with a durable double prong closure to retain a snug fit. There’s nothing more to this belt than meets the eye: you’ve got stability, support, and a fair level of comfort under just about any lifting condition we can imagine. If you’re still not certain on which belt fits your style and needs, continue reading our comprehensive buying guide to get all the necessary information before doubling back to this list, and selecting your perfect fit.

Key Features:

4” width

Double prong, durable closure

Made of leather w/ double stitching for maximum durability

Specification:
  • BrandAder Sporting Goods
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Steel Sweat Weight Lifting Belt

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Every drop of sweat you break is another step further you’re taking to build your body, and for that, you need the right companion to bring along for the ride. Steel Sweat Weight Lifting Belt is made out of nylon, six inches thick, and sporting some excellent back support that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for posture. You’re stabilized all the way through while saving a hefty amount of cash to keep in your wallet. The padded edging along both ends of the belt make it comfortable, even when you’re bending in angles that would normally be uncomfortable: there’s no feeling that your belt is cutting into your sides. Steel Sweat also designed this to fit most body types, so whether you’re just starting out or you’re a pro at lifting, you’ll be able to slip into comfort and support.

Key Features:

6” wide lower back support

Durable and stretchy design keeps you stabilized, without constricting your core

Edging makes this comfortable to wear when shirtless, no matter what angle you’re lifting at

Specification:
  • BrandSteel Sweat
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Weightlifting Belt Buying Guide

If you’re still uncertain which best weightlifting belt is for you, consider your options and take a look at our comprehensive buying guide. You’ll get a little bit of everything, right down to the science of why they work, when you should, and when you really shouldn’t be using them.

best weightlifting belts

What to Consider When Purchasing a Weightlifting Belt

Width - The width is going to aid in stability. Most good belts will have a 4” to 6” width.

Adjustability - You’re either going to velcro, or a few different belt loop closures to put your clasps through. You want to fall somewhere in the middle of those loops, so you’ll have time to adjust them as you body build.

fMaterial - For the most part, you’re going to see leather, as it’s the best weightlifting material for the main build. Then, you’ll have to pay attention to the materials used on the closures.

Durability - This includes the thickness of the material, the closure strength, and how long you’re expected to have this for. Most of these belts have long warranties, some even have lifetime warranties.

Versatility - If you want to toss this to your mate when he’s about to do his reps, it’s totally understandable. However, make sure that it’s versatile enough.

Support - These usually come in either 4” or 6” of leather for your lower lumbar support. That’s the main area you’ll be propping up, eliminating the high risk of sustaining back or spine injuries.

Comfort - Many of these are suede-lined, or contain a certain amount of foam to help cushion your sides to prevent digging into your skin. Most of us do deadlifting shirtless, so this comfort helps reduce chafing. Apart from that, the belt should be snug, but comfortable.

Weightlifting Belt FAQ

Q: How Does a Weightlifting Belt Work?

A: By alleviating pressure on your spine, you’re able to better understand what you’re truly capable of lifting without hurting yourself. Weightlifting belts stabilize your core and spinal column, putting more pressure into your inner abdominal area, which gives you a better workout through and through. When pressure is released off the spine, it mimics a move called the Valsalva maneuver, which is when you pull in your breath to increase pressure in your inner abdominal region.

Q: What Are the Benefits of Weightlifting Belts and do You Need One?

A: The main reason you want to get a weightlifting belt is to prevent back injuries as well as improve your form for competitions, and general exercise. The biggest component to preventing back injury is the thickness and durability of the padding that’s focused on supporting the lower lumbar.

You’re also going to get a better core workout than if you didn’t use a weightlifting belt. The main issue with form (and injuries) is the flexibility of the spine. Back injuries can result in dislocated discs, as well as swollen muscles that press on the spine. By keeping your spine sturdy, you’re putting the weight where it belongs: on your core. Better core workouts, a more intense burn in your midsection, and a better six pack.

Q: How and When to Use Weightlifting Belts

A: Squats, stand-up lifting, and operating weights during deadlifts, are all reasons you’d want to use a weightlifting belt. We’ve seen some gents using these while doing sit-ups or chin-ups, and they’re not designed to handle those, not even a little bit. These keep your spine from flexing out of bounds, allowing you to prevent back problems, and put all the focus where it belongs: your core. These belts will also give you a much better scope of what you’re physically capable to do when lifting.

So do these really provide the necessary support for improved stance during weightlifting? Absolutely. You do have to monitor your breathing patterns to reduce tightness at peak times while using these, but they’re completely capable of improving your form, and preventing back problems.

Q: Is Using a Weightlifting Belt Cheating?

A: In almost every weightlifting competition in the country, you’re able to use these belts throughout the whole duration. The mindset is, that you’re not gaining extra muscles when you put one of these on, but you’re protecting yourself from potential harm if you’re going in for some serious weightlifting. When it comes to personal safety, these competitions have to take president over that, rather than a silly set of rules that they’ve concocted.

Alternatively, if you’re worried about the naysayers in the gym, don’t be. No matter what you’re doing, there’s always going to be some opinionated asshole who’s going to let their two cents be known. Getting a thicker shell and letting it roll off your shoulders (and then lifting massive weight in front of them), is the best way to deal with this. In our experiences, 90% of gym goers are friendly and understanding, and in our modern day, shaming in the gym isn’t really as big of an issue.

Sources

  1. Do You Really Need a Lifting Belt?, T-Nation
  2. Is Using a Lifting Belt Cheating?, Men’s Journal
  3. Lessons in Weight Belts: How and Why to Use Them, Bodybuilding.com
  4. Advantages & Disadvantages of a Weight Lifting Belt, Livestrong
Ben Coleman
Ben Coleman
Ben Coleman is our resident sports and fitness product expert who offers a wide range of information in this field. Ben speaks fluently in the language of nutrition, training, and health - with a Fitness and Personal Training B.A (Hon) gained from the prestigious Southampton University in the UK.
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