How do you wear a weightlifting belt?

To put on a weightlifting belt, first, bring the belt around your back. Next, center the locking mechanism (whether that be a lever, hook-and-loop closure, or prongs) near your belly button. The belt should not be at your ribs, but it should also not be as low as your hips—find what feels most comfortable to you.

Why do weightlifters wear belts?

The use of a weightlifting belt may benefit those performing extreme athletic lifting to help stabilize the core and alleviate pressure on the spine. “When the torso is in a bent position, such as during a deadlift, wearing a back belt assists lifters in generating more torque,” Gagliardi says. “Back belts have been shown to add stiffness to the torso through increased intra-abdominal pressure, which reduces the risk of spine buckling under load and to increase elastic recoil, or the way muscles return to their normal length after being lengthened," he adds.

When should you use weightlifting belt?

“Back belts are most helpful and purposeful during the extreme lifting of maximal loads,” Gagliardi says. “They work best or provide the most support when poor lifting mechanics are used and weight is lifted in a way that exposes [an] exerciser's back to a higher risk of injury.” So, weightlifting belts are useful for doing deadlifts, squats, or stand-up lifting, but shouldn’t be used if an exercise can be performed with good form , such as when the exerciser can maintain a neutral spine. Training on balance boards is also a great way to improve your form by building core strength and flexibility for exercises like squats and deadlifts.

Do you need a weightlifting belt?

If you’re doing regular exercise to enhance your overall health and fitness, like working out on reliable elliptical and rowing machines, you probably don’t need to wear a weightlifting belt. They should be used by weightlifters who are lifting maximal loads and need lower lumbar support . Additionally, weightlifting belts should not be used as a treatment for an injury. “While it may feel good to wear a back belt, it’s important to not lose focus on the cause of injury,” Gagliardi says.

The 10 Best Weightlifting Belts of 2023 for Men and Women

Weightlifting is a popular form of exercise, but poor lifting form, lifting too much weight too quickly, or lack of core strength and stability during exercises can often lead to injury. Weightlifting belts are a great way for lifters to protect themselves during heavy lifts by reducing the stress placed on their lower back and providing stability and support.

"When selecting a weightlifting belt, you need to consider several things, such as materials, method of closure, size, cost, and the manufacturer’s claims about belt use," Christopher Gagliardi, ACE's scientific education content manager and ACE certified personal trainer, says. When reviewing lifting belts, we evaluated each pick on the material they're made of, width and waist sizes they fit and the style of locking mechanism. A NASM-certified personal trainer from our Review Board also reviewed the contents of this article for accuracy, how to use weightlifting belts, and the best ways to evaluate them.

Here are the best weightlifting belts on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Dark Iron Fitness Lifting Belt at Amazon

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Best Overall Runner-up:

Element 26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt at Amazon

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Best for Powerlifting:

Inzer Advance Designs Forever Lever Belt at Amazon

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Best for Women:

MRX BOXING & FITNESS Powerlifting Leather Belt at Amazon

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Best Dip Belt:

Hypeletics Weightlifting Dip Belt at Amazon

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Best Double Prong:

Iron Bull Strength Powerlifting Belt at Amazon

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Best for Beginners:

RitFit Weight Lifting Belt at Amazon

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Best Padded:

Harbinger Leather Padded Weightlifting Belt at Amazon

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Best Hook-and-Loop Closure:

Gymreapers Quick-Locking Weightlifting Belt at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Extremely durable
Doesn’t dig into hips
Lifetime replacement guarantee

Cons

Holes may stretch over time
Requires a break-in period

The Dark Iron Lifting Belt has a lifetime replacement guarantee and a double prong locking system, which is what makes it our best overall pick. This 4-inch genuine cowhide leather belt's locking system stays in place without pinching or digging into your sides. It's made with flexible leather, so it's built to last and won't tear or snap easily. According to the manufacturer, it can support squats and deadlifts with over 600 pounds of weight.

The belt comes in XS (23-to-31-inch waist), S (27-to-35-inch waist), M (32-to-40-inch waist), L (36-to-44-inch waist), and XL (41-to-49-inch waist) sizes. With plenty of holes, weightlifters can find the compression that feels most comfortable.

Price at time of publication: $20

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Leather | Closure: Buckle and prong | Width: 4 inches}

Good to Know

To put on a weightlifting belt, bring it around your back and center the locking mechanism (whether that be a lever, Velcro, or prongs) near your belly button. The belt should not be at your ribs, but it should also not be as low as your hips—find what feels most comfortable to you.

You should tighten the belt to where you feel pressure when you press out your abs, but not so tight that your movement is restricted. A good rule of thumb is to be able to slide your hand between your body and the belt.

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Excellent durability
Comfortable
Secure fit
Lightweight and flexible

Cons

Smaller fit only
Requires a break-in period

For an alternative to leather weightlifting belts, this one from Element 26 checks all the boxes for a quality, high-performance belt. Made with 100% premium nylon, it’s flexible and lightweight, yet still extremely durable. The self-locking buckle is easy to use and stays secure during workouts.

The belt’s 4-inch width provides consistent, intra-abdominal pressure to enhance support and increase your stability during your lift. Available in sizes S-XL, it can fit waist sizes 23 to 45 inches and is a reliable, sturdy option for lifters of all experience levels.

Price at time of publication: $33

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Nylon | Closure: Velcro | Width: 4 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Lightweight and supportive
Comfortable foam padding
Affordable
Durable

Cons

Not suitable for waists above 42 inches
Runs small

Affordable but made with the same quality as high-end belts, this option from Harbinger is great for beginners. Made with thick, flexible nylon, it’s durable and built to last, but it doesn’t feel heavy and bulky like some leather belts.

The 4-inch belt provides maximum lower back and abdominal support, with excellent foam padding for added comfort. A heavy-gauge steel roller buckle and 3-inch adjustment strap make it easy to get the right fit. With several sizes to choose from, this belt can accommodate waists from 24 to 42 inches.

Price at time of publication: $24

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Nylon, foam | Closure: Buckle | Width: 4 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Very durable
Variety of sizes and colors
Consistent support
Easy on and off

Cons

Expensive
Requires a break-in period

Compared to belts designed for Olympic weightlifting—which usually feature more padding on the back—belts made for powerlifting should be the same width all the way around. An even belt is better for heavy squats and deadlifts, whereas belts intended for Olympic weightlifting are designed to support overhead movements like the snatch, press, and clean-and-jerk.

Easy to take on and off, this 0.39-inch leather belt features a lever locking system. With four rows of stitching and a forever guarantee, it's designed for durability. While customers say it requires some break-in time, it conforms to your body the more you use it. The belt comes in sizes XS-5XL and in a range of fun colors.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Leather | Closure: Lever | Width: 4 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Designed for women
Very durable
Variety of sizes and colors

Cons

May not work for petite women
Requires a break-in period

Since many weightlifting belts are designed with a man’s build in mind, some women have a hard time finding a belt that can lock tight enough around their often smaller waist. The MRX Powerlifting Belt is 4 inches wide and made to conform to a variety of body types.

Constructed of durable leather and a stainless steel slide bar buckle, it's made to give you an ideal fit. The belt comes in six sizes—S (27 to 33 inches) to XXL (44 to 50 inches). It also comes in multiple fun and classic colors and patterns including black, pink, brown, camo pink, camo gray, and more.

Price at time of publication: $39

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Leather | Closure: Buckle and prong | Width: 4 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Comfortable padding
Very portable
Easy to adjust
Affordable

Cons

May be too wide for some
Requires a break-in period

A “dip” or “dipping” belt sits lower on the midsection than a normal belt. These belts are not designed for every kind of weightlifting exercise—the chain or strap that hangs off the belt allows you to attach weight plates for added resistance. This makes any sort of bodyweight exercise (like pull-ups or free squats) more difficult.

The Hypeletics Dip Belt comes with an adjustable waist strap and buckle that gives users a snug fit to ensure the belt won’t fall off when exercising. Made with neoprene, reinforced stitching, steel carabiners, and an inner pad, it's crafted for comfort. Plus, the 40-inch weight strap can hold up to six Olympic-size plates, so it's perfect for veteran weightlifters.

Price at time of publication: $30

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Neoprene | Closure: Buckle | Width: 7 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Ironbullstrength.com

Pros

Very durable
Excellent support
Secure and stable
Quality materials

Cons

Difficult to put on
Requires a break-in period

The 4-inch Iron Bull Strength Powerlifting Belt is made of thick suede leather, offering support and flexibility no matter what weight you're lifting. Designed to conform to the user’s body shape, it helps lifters maintain good form for safe lifting. The double prong buckle is made of plated steel for strength and durability—giving individuals peace of mind since it allows for a more even distribution of weight.

With 10 rows of holes, the belt is fully adjustable for a customized fit. It also comes in five sizes including S (25 to 30 inches), M (30 to 35 inches), L (35 to 40 inches), XL (40 to 45 inches), and XXL (45 to 50 inches).

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Leather | Closure: Buckle and prong | Width: 4 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Ideal for beginners
Wide range of sizes
Easy to adjust
Affordable

Cons

Requires a break-in period
Not great for heavy lifts

This affordable, 6-inch belt has a foam core, waterproof exterior, and soft edges for unmatched comfort while lifting. With a solid steel buckle and high-quality hook-and-loop closure strap, its snug fit ensures spinal support and abdominal pressure while allowing individuals to easily move through their workout without restriction.

Since hook-and-loop closure belts are typically easier to fasten and take on and off, this one is great for beginner weightlifters that are just starting to experiment with a lifting belt. It comes in sizes S-XXL—22 to 59 inches around the waist—and in four unique colors.

Price at time of publication: $20

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Reinforced tricot | Closure: Hook-and-loop fastener | Width: 6 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Contoured design
Foam cushioning for comfort
Very durable
Secure fit

Cons

Requires a break-in period
May not work for large sizes

If you’re looking for a very comfortable, protective fit, you’ll appreciate the padding and durable construction of this genuine leather weightlifting belt from Harbinger. The 6-inch width and dual prong roller buckles provide you with security, no matter how tough and lengthy your workout is. The foam and suede lining also provides cushioning where you need it the most.

An excellent pick for lifters of all levels, this belt comes in a wide range of sizes. As with most leather weightlifting belts, it will take several wears for it to break in, but it’s well worth the wait.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Leather, foam | Closure: Buckle and prong | Width: 6 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Easy closure
Durable
Lightweight and supportive
Lifetime replacement guarantee

Cons

Runs small
Not as thick as some

Hook-and-loop closure weightlifting belts, such as this one from Gymreapers, are popular because they're easy to use and comfortable. With a low-profile hook and loop closure, you can easily fasten the belt and achieve your desired compression and fit without having to spend a lot of time fussing with a buckle.

Designed with 100 percent high-grade nylon materials and reinforced stitching, this belt is built to withstand tough, long workouts. The 4-inch width around the entire belt supports your core and back, whether you’re squatting, deadlifting, or snatching. Plus, Gymreapers stands behind their belts with a lifetime replacement guarantee, so you can trust that you’re getting a quality, durable product.

Price at time of publication: $35

^{Key Specs:}^{Materials: Nylon | Closure: Hook-and-loop fastener | Width: 4 inches}

Final Verdict

Crafted with genuine cowhide leather the Dark Iron Fitness Lifting Belt (view at Amazon) is a durable option that will stay in place during your workout. It features a double-prong locking system that won’t dig into your sides, and it can support over 600 pounds of weight—making it a good option for heavy lifters.

If you’re looking for a more flexible option, you can’t go wrong with the Element 26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt (view at Amazon). Made with 100% premium nylon, it’s lightweight and easy to take on and off. However, the 4-inch width provides consistent pressure for safety and stability while lifting.

How We Rated the Weightlifting Belts

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best weightlifting belts we reviewed. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These weightlifting belts are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great weightlifting belts, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These weightlifting belts are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend weightlifting belts with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

What to Look For in a Weightlifting Belt

Material

The ideal material for a weightlifting belt is often based on personal comfort and how long a lifter intends to use it. Leather belts take some time to break in but will last a long time. Individuals who are newer to weightlifting may prefer a nylon belt since it generally takes less time to break in.

Locking mechanism

There are a couple of ways to secure a weightlifting belt—single prong, double prong, lever, and hook-and-loop closures. Lever and hook-and-loop closure locking mechanisms are the fastest to get off, but prong systems tend to give users the ability to customize how tight their belt is more easily. This is especially important if individuals prefer different degrees of compression depending on what lift they’re doing—with a prong system you can just tighten a different notch, but a lever requires you to reset it with each compression change.

Width

The desired width of a belt is generally dictated by how much weight an individual is planning to lift or how much support they feel their body needs. Competitive lifters often find their range of motion slightly impacted by wider belts, but more novice lifters may want the extra support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you wear a weightlifting belt?

To put on a weightlifting belt, first, bring the belt around your back. Next, center the locking mechanism (whether that be a lever, hook-and-loop closure, or prongs) near your belly button. The belt should not be at your ribs, but it should also not be as low as your hips—find what feels most comfortable to you.
Why do weightlifters wear belts?

The use of a weightlifting belt may benefit those performing extreme athletic lifting to help stabilize the core and alleviate pressure on the spine. “When the torso is in a bent position, such as during a deadlift, wearing a back belt assists lifters in generating more torque,” Gagliardi says.
“Back belts have been shown to add stiffness to the torso through increased intra-abdominal pressure, which reduces the risk of spine buckling under load and to increase elastic recoil, or the way muscles return to their normal length after being lengthened," he adds.
How tight should a weightlifting belt be?

You should tighten the belt to where you feel pressure when you press out your abs, but not so tight that your movement is restricted. A good rule of thumb is to be able to slide your hand between your body and the belt.
When should you use weightlifting belt?

“Back belts are most helpful and purposeful during the extreme lifting of maximal loads,” Gagliardi says. “They work best or provide the most support when poor lifting mechanics are used and weight is lifted in a way that exposes [an] exerciser's back to a higher risk of injury.” So, weightlifting belts are useful for doing deadlifts, squats, or stand-up lifting, but shouldn’t be used if an exercise can be performed with good form, such as when the exerciser can maintain a neutral spine. Training on balance boards is also a great way to improve your form by building core strength and flexibility for exercises like squats and deadlifts.
Do you need a weightlifting belt?

If you’re doing regular exercise to enhance your overall health and fitness, like working out on reliable elliptical and rowing machines, you probably don’t need to wear a weightlifting belt. They should be used by weightlifters who are lifting maximal loads and need lower lumbar support.
Additionally, weightlifting belts should not be used as a treatment for an injury. “While it may feel good to wear a back belt, it’s important to not lose focus on the cause of injury,” Gagliardi says.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a former fitness coach, long-time wellness enthusiast, and current health editor, Lily Moe understands the importance of equipment that is made to help you reach your fitness goals. She’s seen how using the wrong equipment can cause injury, and how choosing the right tools will often be the momentum individuals need to reach success. Most importantly, Lily always looks for research and firsthand reviews when it comes to deciding on a product.

A personal trainer, marathon running coach, and fitness writer, Christine Luff loves researching and testing the latest and greatest health and fitness gear and gadgets. Her decades of running experience have helped her understand the value of using the best gear to improve comfort and performance.

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