Lifting straps

[5kgLifter]

Because there is a variety out there, this thread is for those new to lifting and for the discussion of lifting straps in general. If you've used any particular strap, feel free to add feedback and/or pictures.


Double-looped strap:




Closed-loop/Loop strap:




Basic/Traditional strap:




Twisted loop lifting straps:




Linear lifting straps:

[Gaz6682]

I own a pair of the traditional type straps that cost me £5. I only really use them for shrugs but they do the job no question and for a fiver I'm delighted.

[Shadowschmadow]

When I do use straps, I have the most basic (typical) straps. However, a buddy of mine has some Dowel straps that I think are a ton better. I much prefer these over conventional straps:



These are the exact same straps he has. Very comfortable and very functional.

[BendtheBar]

Versa Gripps.

These work like vice grips for me and they are very durable. They are also much easier to operate and lock into place than cloth straps. I routinely use them on poundages exceeding 500-700 pounds, and my pair still looks relatively new.

[gaspers04]

I like to break straps.

EliteFTS straps, thick, stiff and ugly, these things stand in the corner on their own.

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by gaspers04

I like to break straps.

^ That's the key issue with the cheap straps. They seem like a solid investment but aren't durable once you start moving iron.

Gaspers and myself training with TBTaylor last year and we ripped 2 sets of straps in one 15 minute shrug session.

[Shadowschmadow]

Watching people breaking straps scares me. Watching people have slip-ups under heavy weight scares me in general. Like all of the bench fail compilations; absolutely horrific. I feel like a ghost just walked through me every time I see the bar come down on someone's neck. I get such an uneasy feeling.

[J_Byrd]

The best pairs I have ever seen, and the only ones I have seen that don't break are home made. They took martial arts belts (like green belt, orange belt, black belt) and had them sown into a loop for the wrist. Best straps ever.

[austin.j.taylor]

go to a junk yard and grab an old car seat belt. Cut into two 22 inch strips and sew a loop into them. You wont get a stronger strap than that.

[BigJosh]

I have only used the traditional straps. They seem to work for me. They are cotton so I am sure sooner or later (when I get to Gasper and BtB weights) they will break. I also have an old seatbelt in the closet that I eventually will cut up and use in the gym.