10 Best Weightlifting Belts How to Pick a Good One
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• medium (32–38-in. waist)
• large (37–44-in. waist)
• XL(42–49-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersFire Team Fitnylon/cotton/polyester outer; neoprene innerVelcro• XS (27–32-in. waist)
• small (30–34-in. waist)
• medium (32–38-in. waist)
• large (38–43-in. waist)
• XL (43–49-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersStoic Powerlifting Weight Lifting Beltleathersingle prong• XS (25–28-in. waist)
• small (29–32-in. waist)
• medium (33–36-in. waist)
• large (37–40-in. waist)
• XL (41–44-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–48-in. waist)
• 3XL (49–52 in. waist)
• 4XL (53–56 in. waist)$$serious or competition weightliftersElement 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting BeltnylonVelcro• XS (23–27-in. waist)
• small (27–31-in. waist)
• medium (31–36-in. waist)
• large (36–40-in. waist)
• XL (40–45-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–50-in. waist)$competition or recreational weightliftersHarbinger Women s Hexcore Beltnylon and webbing outer; foam innerVelcro• XS (24–28-in. waist)
• small (28–32-in. waist)
• medium (32–36-in. waist)$small-framed recreational weightliftersRogue Black Leather 13 mm Power Lifting Lever Beltleatherlever• XS (22–31-in. waist)
• small (27–36-in. waist)
• medium (31–40-in. waist)
• large (35–44-in. waist)
• XL (39–48-in. waist)$$$serious or competition weightliftersSteel Sweat Weight Lifting Beltleathersingle prong• small (25–30-in. waist)
• medium (30–35-in. waist)
• large (35–40-in. waist)
• XL (40–45-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–50-in. waist)$–$$serious or competition weightliftersRogue USA Nylon Lifting BeltnylonVelcro• XS (26–29-in. waist)
• small (29–32-in. waist)
• medium (32–35-in. waist)
• large (35–38-in. waist)
• XL (38–41-in. waist)
• 2XL (41–44-in. waist)
• 3XL (44–47-in. waist)$$competition and serious weightliftersRDX Padded Weightlifting Beltpolyester outer; SpongeX inner paddingVelcro• small (28–33-in. waist)
• medium (33–37-in. waist)
• large (37–41-in. waist)
• XL (41–48-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersRogue 3&Prime Ohio Beltleatherdouble prong• small (21–28-in. waist)
• medium (26–33-in. waist)
• large (31–37-in. waist)
• XL (34–41-in. waist)
• 2XL (38–45-in. waist)$$$competition or recreational weightlifters with a smaller frame/shorter torso
10 Best Weightlifting Belts by Size Type and Experience
Medically reviewed by Daniel Bubnis, M.S., NASM-CPT, NASE Level II-CSS, Fitness — By Corey Whelan and Laura Williams Bustos, MS, ACSM EP-C — Updated on September 28, 2022Share on PinterestDesign by Lauren ParkWe include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Weightlifting belts help improve performance and may reduce the risk of injury by stabilizing your trunk and supporting your spine (1). A well-designed weightlifting belt cuts down on spinal load and aids proper alignment, enabling you to lift more weight (2). If your work requires heavy lifting, a weightlifting belt can also help protect you against injury on the job. Weightlifting belts come in multiple designs and materials. For this list of the best belts, we looked at various features, such as fit, cost, construction, and manufacturer's guarantees. We also took into account consumer reviews and endorsements.A quick look at the best weightlifting belts
Best overall weightlifting belt: ProFitness 4-Inch Genuine Leather Workout BeltBest vegan weightlifting belt: Fire Team FitBest weightlifting belt for experienced powerlifters: Stoic Powerlifting Weight Lifting BeltBest budget weightlifting belt: Element 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting BeltBest weightlifting belt for smaller frames: Harbinger Women s Hexcore BeltBest lever weightlifting belt: Rogue Black Leather 13 mm Power Lifting Lever BeltBest prong weightlifting belt: Steel Sweat Weight Lifting BeltBest weightlifting belt for quick adjustments: Rogue USA Nylon Lifting BeltBest padded weightlifting belt: RDX Padded Weightlifting BeltBest weightlifting belt for greater range of motion: Rogue 3&Prime Ohio BeltHow we chose
The weightlifting belts featured in this article were selected based on the following criteria:Materials: The products on our list are made from high quality, durable materials designed to support a variety of weightlifting needs. Customer reviews: The products on our list have all been well received and well reviewed by real customers who have provided positive and negative feedback on each belt. Size: The length and width of each belt played a role in their inclusion. We wanted to make sure there were high quality options available for people of all sizes. Price: The belts on this list come in a wide range of price points designed to meet the needs of most budgets.Competition versus recreational use: Some belts on this list are competition approved, while others are better for recreational weightlifters. We wanted a mix of options to suit the needs of different lifters. Vetting: The products on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline's brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.A note on price
General price ranges are indicated below with dollar signs ($–$$$). One dollar sign means the brand's products are rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost. Pricing guide$ = under $50$$ = $50–$100$$$ = over $100Healthline s picks of the best weightlifting belts
Best overall weightlifting belt
ProFitness 4-Inch Genuine Leather Workout Belt
Price: $Closure type: prongMaterials: leatherSizes and waist measurements: small (24–32-in. waist), medium (32–38-in. waist), large (37–44-in. waist), XL (42–49-in. waist)Who it's best for: recreational weightlifters who want a high quality leather belt that's a little more flexible than competition-style beltsLeather weightlifting belts are often expensive and can be uncomfortable when first put to use, so when price meets form, function, and comfort, you know you've got a winner. This double prong-style belt features genuine leather and the secure fit you want in a heavy-duty weightlifting belt. The belt is 4 inches (in.) wide in a cylinder style, meaning it doesn't taper or change widths, offering the same level of support from the back to the abdomen. At 5 millimeters (mm) thick, it's thinner than many other leather weightlifting belts, which makes it slightly more pliable, requiring less time to break in and providing a more comfortable initial fit.Pros
It has a lifetime guarantee and free returns and exchanges.It's a unisex design with a wide range of sizes to accommodate many body types.The price point is lower than many leather weightlifting belts.The prong closure offers a secure fit for lifts.Cons
The 5-mm thickness may not offer the support that all weightlifters want. Shop now at ProFitnessBest vegan weightlifting belt
Fire Team Fit
Price: $Closure type: roller buckle with hook and loop (Velcro)Materials: nylon/cotton/polyester blend outer with a neoprene fillingSizes and waist measurements: XS (27–32-in. waist), small (30–34-in. waist), medium (32–38-in. waist), large (38–43-in. waist), XL (43–49-in. waist)Who it's best for: recreational weightlifters who prefer a contoured fit for more back support and who prefer a more flexible nylon belt over a stiff leather beltThe amount of stability and support you get from your weightlifting belt is largely determined by fit. To accommodate all body types, the Fire Team Fit weightlifting belt doesn't have a predetermined set of holes. Instead, it features a Velcro hook-and-loop system so you can adjust the belt's fit exactly to the circumference of your midsection. It has a contoured design with a height of 6 in. in the back to between 3.5 and 4.5 in. on the front and sides. It's made from a blend of nylon, cotton, and polyester and has a neoprene filling.Pros
This belt supplies a great fit for people of most builds or sizes.It has a lifetime guarantee and is manufactured by a veteran-owned company.Each purchase provides a $1 contribution to a nonprofit that provides support to U.S. combat veterans.Cons
Reviews for the Fire Team Fit weightlifting belt are overwhelmingly positive, but some people report it can dig into the skin during squats. Shop now at AmazonBest weightlifting belt for experienced powerlifters
Stoic Powerlifting Weight Lifting Belt
Price: $$Closure type: prongMaterials: leatherSizes and waist measurements: XS (25–28-in. waist), small (29–32-in. waist), medium (33–36-in. waist), large (37–40-in. waist), XL (41–44-in. waist), 2XL (45–48-in. waist), 3XL (49–52-in. waist), 4XL (53–56-in. waist)Who it's best for: serious or competition-level weightlifters who need the stability and support of a thick leather beltIf you're looking for support, the classic design and function of a 10-mm weightlifting belt constructed of leather with a prong closure is hard to beat. Many leather belts include inner and outer layers of suede for a softer finish and comfortable fit. But the Stoic belt only features a thin inner layer, meaning the 10-mm thickness is made of strong, supportive, premium-grade leather. For competitive powerlifters, the Stoic belt is competition approved by the major national and international federations.Pros
It has an affordable price point for a premium, competition-approved leather belt.It offers added support, with a 10-mm thickness made almost entirely of leather.The company offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.Cons
The thickness of the leather may make it more difficult to break in.Some reviewers indicate that the fit isn't true to size and you may need to size up. Shop now at AmazonBest budget weightlifting belt
Element 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting Belt
Price: $Closure type: self-locking buckle with hook and loopMaterials: nylonSizes and waist measurements: XS (23–27-in. waist), small (27–31-in. waist), medium (31–36-in. waist), large (36–40-in. waist), XL (40–45-in. waist), 2XL (45–50-in. waist)Who it's best for: competition or recreational weightlifters who need a belt they can put on and take off quickly for transitions between activities (as in CrossFit)Element 26's self-locking weightlifting belt is 100% nylon. It features a self-locking, quick-release buckle. It's meant for fast transitions. Users say it's great for medium and heavy lifting. It's fully approved for use during USA Weightlifting and CrossFit competitions and has a lifetime guarantee.Pros
It comes in a wide range of sizes to fit many different body types.It's approved for national and international competitions.To some people, the nylon construction may feel more comfortable than leather.Cons
The nylon construction doesn't provide the same level of support as leather, and it may not be suitable for all lifters.The hook-and-loop closure is more likely to wear down than prong or lever closures. Shop now at AmazonBest weightlifting belt for smaller frames
Harbinger Women s Hexcore Belt
Price: $Closure type: roller buckle with hook and loopMaterials: mesh and nylon outer, foam innerSizes and waist measurements: XS (24–28-in. waist), small (28–32-in. waist), medium (32–36-in. waist)Who it's best for: recreational weightlifters with a smaller frame who prefer a contoured fit and more flexible beltFemale lifters tend to have smaller frames and smaller waists with a wider angle between the waist and the hips. This can make standard weightlifting belts less comfortable. The Harbinger Women s Hexcore Belt is 4.5 in. wide at the back, offering spinal support, but it includes a slight contour, narrowing at the abdomen. The padded foam also makes the belt more comfortable, and the hook-and-loop closure makes it easy to quickly adjust the fit.Pros
It has an affordable price point.It offers a comfortable fit, contoured for smaller frames.It's sized for most competitions.Cons
The foam structure doesn't provide the same support as leather or premium nylon.It's likely not as appropriate for very heavy lifting, but it's a good starter belt. Shop now at HarbingerBest lever weightlifting belt
Rogue Black Leather 13 mm Power Lifting Lever Belt
Price: $$$Closure type: leverMaterials: leatherSizes and waist measurements: XS (22–31-in. waist), small (27–36-in. waist), medium (31–40-in. waist), large (35–44-in. waist), XL (39–48-in. waist)Who it's best for: competition or serious weightlifters who need maximum support from a stiff, stable leather beltA lever closure allows for more precise fitting and a secure locking system, bridging the gap between the somewhat less-precise prong closure and the somewhat less secure hook-and-loop closure. This weightlifting belt is designed for serious powerlifters and is competition approved by the International Powerlifting Federation. The 13-mm leather offers good support for heavy lifting, and the 4-in. cylinder style provides consistent support from the back to the abdomen.Pros
High quality materials and structure offer support for heavy lifting.It has a wide range of sizing to fit many different waist sizes.Cons
It has a high price point.The belt tends to run large, so it's important to double-check sizing.The thick leather and cylinder style might be uncomfortable for some lifters. Shop now at RogueBest prong weightlifting belt
Steel Sweat Weight Lifting Belt
Price: $–$$Closure type: prongMaterials: leatherSizes and waist measurements: small (25–30-in. waist), medium (30–35-in. waist), large (35–40-in. waist), XL (40–45-in. waist), 2XL (45–50-in. waist)Who it's best for: competition or serious weightlifters who want a sturdy leather belt that's easier to put on or take off with a single prong closureThe Steel Sweat belt is made of premium leather and features a 4-in. cylinder style and a 10-mm thickness with a stainless steel single-prong closure, all at an affordable price. The single-prong system is easier to adjust on the fly than a double-prong setup, making it a good option for people who want the flexibility to adjust a prong belt easily. The belt is also International Powerlifting Federation compliant.Pros
The single-prong system makes for easy adjustments.It has a more affordable price point than many leather belts.It's powerlifting competition compliant.Customer service is responsive to concerns.Cons
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, but some users note that the leather and rivets tend to wear down faster than you might expect. Shop now at AmazonBest weightlifting belt for quick adjustments
Rogue USA Nylon Lifting Belt
Price: $$Closure type: roller buckle with hook and loop Materials: nylonSizes and waist measurements: XS (26–29-in. waist), small (29–32-in. waist), medium (32–35-in. waist), large (35–38-in. waist), XL (38–41-in. waist), 2XL (41–44-in. waist), 3XL (44–47-in. waist)Who it's best for: competition and serious weightlifters who prefer a sturdy, nylon belt with a Velcro closure for quick transitions, rather than a leather beltRogue's nylon lifting belt was recently redesigned with input from professional CrossFit athlete Mat Fraser, who won the 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 CrossFit Games. The back panel is 5 in. high and tapers down to about 4 in. in front. The webbing support strap measures 3 in. across.Pros
Users like that this belt allows them to add their own hook-and-eye patches.It's made from nylon, has a 0.25-inch thick foam frame, and is comfortable to wear.It also features an antimicrobial interior.Cons
It's important to use Rogue's fit guide when purchasing to ensure a good fit. Some users mention that they needed to pick a smaller size. Shop now at RogueBest padded weightlifting belt
RDX Padded Weightlifting Belt
Price: $Closure type: roller buckle with hook and loopMaterials: polyester outer, SpongeX inner paddingSizes and waist measurements: small (28–33-in. waist), medium (33–37-in. waist), large (37–41-in. waist), XL (41–48-in. waist)Who it's best for: recreational weightlifters who want a more padded, comfortable weightlifting belt with more lumbar supportA common complaint of weightlifting belts, especially for people who aren't competitive powerlifters or weightlifters, is that belts are uncomfortable and dig into the skin, ribs, and hips. Padded belts that offer back and abdominal support without the structure of a competition-level belt can be helpful for those who want some support without the discomfort. The RDX weightlifting belt offers a wider lumbar support area of 6.5 in., tapering slightly through the waist and abdomen. It's also made of polyester fabric and features SpongeX padding to provide a softer, more pliable fit. The roller buckle with hook-and-loop closure also allows for a more customized fit.Pros
It's a comfortable all-around belt for standard strength training sessions.It's has a customizable fit for overall comfort.It has an affordable price point and is a great belt for noncompetitive strength trainers.Cons
It offers less overall support and isn't advisable for heavy lifting. Shop now at AmazonBest weightlifting belt for greater range of motion
Rogue 3&Prime Ohio Belt
Price: $$$Closure type: prongMaterials: leatherSizes and waist measurements: small (21–28-in. waist), medium (26–33-in. waist), large (31–37-in. waist), XL (34–41-in. waist), 2XL (38–45-in. waist)Who it's best for: competition or recreational weightlifters who want the stiffness and support of a leather belt, but prefer a narrower profile; particularly good for people with smaller frames or shorter torsosThe vast majority of leather weightlifting belts (and even non-leather options) feature a 4-in. or wider support across the back. While some taper around the sides and abdomen, it's unusual to see belts that are narrower all the way around. The Ohio Belt features a cylinder style that's 3 in. all the way around with a two-prong closure system. The 10-mm thick leather belt offers the same support found in wider belts, but it provides more freedom to bend and move while wearing it. This is particularly helpful for people with shorter waists or smaller frames.Pros
It has a narrower width for easier movement and greater range of motion through the torso.It's compliant with the International Powerlifting Federation.It pinches and digs less into the ribs or hips during heavy lifting.Cons
For people who prefer greater stability and support, a 3-in. belt is unlikely to feel as secure as a 4-in. belt. Shop now at RogueA comparison of the best weightlifting belts
Here is a closer look at how each of these products compare.MaterialsClosure typeSizes and waist measurementsPriceWho it's best forProFitness 4-inch Genuine Leather Workout Beltleatherdouble prong• small (24–32-in. waist)• medium (32–38-in. waist)
• large (37–44-in. waist)
• XL(42–49-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersFire Team Fitnylon/cotton/polyester outer; neoprene innerVelcro• XS (27–32-in. waist)
• small (30–34-in. waist)
• medium (32–38-in. waist)
• large (38–43-in. waist)
• XL (43–49-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersStoic Powerlifting Weight Lifting Beltleathersingle prong• XS (25–28-in. waist)
• small (29–32-in. waist)
• medium (33–36-in. waist)
• large (37–40-in. waist)
• XL (41–44-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–48-in. waist)
• 3XL (49–52 in. waist)
• 4XL (53–56 in. waist)$$serious or competition weightliftersElement 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting BeltnylonVelcro• XS (23–27-in. waist)
• small (27–31-in. waist)
• medium (31–36-in. waist)
• large (36–40-in. waist)
• XL (40–45-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–50-in. waist)$competition or recreational weightliftersHarbinger Women s Hexcore Beltnylon and webbing outer; foam innerVelcro• XS (24–28-in. waist)
• small (28–32-in. waist)
• medium (32–36-in. waist)$small-framed recreational weightliftersRogue Black Leather 13 mm Power Lifting Lever Beltleatherlever• XS (22–31-in. waist)
• small (27–36-in. waist)
• medium (31–40-in. waist)
• large (35–44-in. waist)
• XL (39–48-in. waist)$$$serious or competition weightliftersSteel Sweat Weight Lifting Beltleathersingle prong• small (25–30-in. waist)
• medium (30–35-in. waist)
• large (35–40-in. waist)
• XL (40–45-in. waist)
• 2XL (45–50-in. waist)$–$$serious or competition weightliftersRogue USA Nylon Lifting BeltnylonVelcro• XS (26–29-in. waist)
• small (29–32-in. waist)
• medium (32–35-in. waist)
• large (35–38-in. waist)
• XL (38–41-in. waist)
• 2XL (41–44-in. waist)
• 3XL (44–47-in. waist)$$competition and serious weightliftersRDX Padded Weightlifting Beltpolyester outer; SpongeX inner paddingVelcro• small (28–33-in. waist)
• medium (33–37-in. waist)
• large (37–41-in. waist)
• XL (41–48-in. waist)$recreational weightliftersRogue 3&Prime Ohio Beltleatherdouble prong• small (21–28-in. waist)
• medium (26–33-in. waist)
• large (31–37-in. waist)
• XL (34–41-in. waist)
• 2XL (38–45-in. waist)$$$competition or recreational weightlifters with a smaller frame/shorter torso