The Best Weightlifting Belts of 2025, Approved by a Certified Weightlifting Coach

A top-tier weightlifting belt should provide a consistent, tight fit that can offer high-quality support for heavy squats and deadlifts. This 10-millimeter Premium Lever Lifting Belt from Iron Bull Strength has been our go-to for lifting needs thanks to its easy-to-lock-in lever system, thick leather design, and suede interior, which can help boost comfort and keep the belt in place.

The 10-millimeter thickness seen across this design can offer a rigid support system across your abdomen and lower back, making it ideal for heavy training sessions. Plus, we like how the suede interior gives this belt some grip across your skin or apparel, allowing it to stay in place rather than riding up your core during movement. We rated the durability at 5 out of 5, too, as the leather has shown no sense of fraying or wear after multiple gym sessions (one of the reasons you may choose a leather belt vs a nylon belt).

However, our tester rated the comfort at 3 out of 5, stating that the 3.93-inch width may be better suited for longer torsos. “I’ll admit, the belt did its job, but the stiff leather had a tendency to dig into my ribs and waist,” they said. “I wouldn’t recommend this silhouette for any sort of CrossFit or Olympic lifting exercises that require more movement and flexibility.”

While this Iron Bull profile may be less versatile than other belts on the market, we still feel there’s a place for it alongside the best knee sleeves in your gym bag, especially if you’re a powerlifter. The consistent fit across the lock-and-key nature of the lever can be perfect for achieving a taut bracing system before hitting the platform. Plus, this belt is approved by the International Powerlifting Federation, meaning it can be used in competition. (1)

Finally, those who need an adjustable weightlifting belt may not find this silhouette worthwhile. We rated the adjustability at 3 out of 5, since tightening or loosening the belt is more of a chore involving hand tools and set screws. 

You’ll need to undo the lever base and move it along the provided eyelets for a looser or tighter fit — a process I recommend saving for post- or pre-workout planning as opposed to in-between sets (unless you fancy carrying a screwdriver with you throughout the gym like some buff handyman).

CrossFit athletes need their lifting belts to be supportive enough for heavy lifting yet versatile enough that they don’t hinder their other movements in a given WOD (of which, there can be plenty). For those looking to dominate their CrossFit workouts at home or at the gym, the Element 26 Self Locking Weightlifting Belt can be a real treat. This premium nylon profile boasts a hook-and-loop strap system for premier lockdown, while the quick-release roller buckle can be excellent for transitioning between strength work and plyometrics.

This Element 26 lifting belt also features a uniform 4-inch width, giving you consistent support across your ribs and lumbar. Additionally, I like how flexible the belt is, giving you just the right amount of give that it doesn’t hinder your body mechanics through more involved exercises like the snatch or clean and jerk.

We scored this lifting belt’s adjustability at 4.5 out of 5, too, as the hook-and-loop strap was simple enough to manage, and the roller buckle made entry and exit a breeze. 

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, also commented on the durability of the design. “I’ve had this belt for years, and I’ve yet to notice any fraying or tackiness issues across the Velcro,” they said in reference to their 4 out of 5 rating for the category. “However, I’ve been diligent in making sure the hook-and-loop patches are closed entirely before stuffing this belt in my bag.”

Element 26 also offers a lifetime warranty with this Self Locking Weightlifting Belt, but the service is less expensive than you’d think. The coverage protects the silhouette from manufacturer defects, not regular wear and tear. 

Lastly, I’ve trained with this belt before and would rate the fit at 4 out of 5. You can cinch the belt into place rather easily, provided you’re training in a lightweight top. In colder months when I typically train with a hoodie, getting the belt into position can be a bit of a strain given that the hook-and-loop patch does not run the entire length of the profile. I’d recommend putting the belt on over your t-shirt or crop top and wearing your sweatshirt as a final outer layer if you’re looking to get as much support and snugness as possible.

Read our full Element 26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt Review.

Powerlifters can definitely benefit from the added lumbar support delivered through weightlifting belts as they chase down PR after PR across the “big three” — squat, bench, and deadlift. While there are plenty of high-quality silhouettes on the market that can help lifters earn those three white lights in competition, we think the REP Fitness Premium Leather Lifting Belt is the best of the bunch thanks to its impressive rigidity across the vegetable-tanned leather profile, as well as a quick break-in that gives you a personalized fit.

Our tester, an Olympian and competitive weightlifter, used this belt for roughly six weeks, testing its fit, adjustability, and durability during heavy squats, deadlifts, and Olympic lifts. Due to its bulk, they found it to be best for powerlifting, as opposed to Metcon or CrossFit workouts. That bulk, though, gives the belt plenty of durability and a secure fit. We scored its durability a 5 out of 5, with our tester shouting out its intricate stitching and total lack of budging or shifting during lifts.

They also found it plenty comfortable. “I’m more used to tapered belts, and this is a straight 4-inch width with no taper. Very secure, though, and it broke in after a couple of uses, which is quicker than I expected.” Comfort scored a 4.5 out of 5.

Adjustability, meanwhile, got a 4 out of 5. “It uses a a single prong buckle to slot into the belt’s holes, which are spaced roughly an inch apart,” says our tester. “I found it flexible enough for my needs, but it might be a bit too tight or loose if you land in between those adjustments. Also, the 4-inch width can be a little tough to get a grip on during tightening.”

Our tester scored this belt a 4 out of 5 overall, noting that it’s become their routine squatting belt. They say, “It’s not super versatile, but I’d recommend this as a powerlifting belt for squats and deadlifts. You could give it a shot for Olympic lifts, but I personally was uncomfortable catching weight in a clean due to the straight width.”

If you’re looking for a belt that combines comfort, versatility, and support, this Quick Locking Weightlifting Belt from Gymreapers is tough to beat. Available in 13 different colorways for less than $35, this strength accessory can be easily cinched into position thanks to its roller buckle and hook-and-loop strap. Plus, the nylon frame boasts a solid structure that requires zero break-in time, allowing you to get right into stabilized training as soon as this lifting belt arrives at your doorstep.

This is my go-to belt for most training days, and I appreciate the versatility at play across the nylon design. You can quickly find the right amount of tautness for proper bracing, and the hook-and-loop strap makes it easy to get out of the belt rapidly for catching your breath in-between sets or hopping into a different movement. For these reasons, I scored the versatility at 4 out of 5.

Our tester, a USA Weightlifting Level-2 instructor, also commended the comfort of this Gymreapers belt profile. “I enjoyed the flexibility of the nylon, which is far less rigid than other leather belts I’ve trained in,” they said in reference to their 5 out of 5 rating for comfort. “The seams don’t cut into your sides, either, which can help improve in-training feel during dynamic lifts. The only true ‘break-in’ I’d say is learning where you want the belt to sit across your abdomen and back.”

Gymreapers also bolstered the makeup of this weightlifting belt with double stitching across the top and bottom seams, helping the profile stay durable through extended use. However, our tester rated the durability at 3 out of 5 after noticing some excessive fraying across the hook-and-loop strap system. 

“I mostly credit this to improper storage — you need to close the Velcro strap each time you go to throw this belt in your gym bag to prevent dust and debris from entering the system,” they said.

Speaking of storage, I also appreciate how collapsible the belt is, which I attribute to the approximated 1-inch thickness. While this may be too flexible for those ultra-heavy sets, it can still be suitable for most needs in the gym.

Read our full Gymreapers Quick Locking Weightlifting Belt Review.

In general, you can achieve support from any lifting belt provided you’ve tightened it enough to create a rigid foundation across your back and core. However, some profiles take that bracing a little further, such as the Bells of Steel Lever Belt. This high-quality lever belt has a dozen adjustment points, which allowed our tester, a weightlifting coach, to achieve a snug fit.

After using it for several sets of heavy squats and deadlifts, our tester didn’t experience any budging or shifting. “It stayed perfectly in place during each set. No movement at all,” they say.

It’s not the most comfortable belt — “Lever belts never are,” says our tester, who scored comfort a 3 out of 5 — but that discomfort can actually lend itself to the belt’s supportive nature. “The less you brace, the more uncomfortable it feels, so it actually reinforces good form by encouraging you to brace properly.”

They had a few quibbles. For one, the belt arrives unassembled and you’ll want a star drive handy to help lock in the fastening mechanism. Also, since the lever mechanism can take longer to adjust than most other belts, they scored its adjustability a 3 out of 5.

Durability, however, scored a 5 out of 5. “The leather and suede material feels very high-quality, and I’m really impressed by the stitching,” they said. “Honestly, it’s one of the nicest lever belts I’ve seen.”

If you’ve worn a lifting belt before but feel like the larger width digs into your ribs and hips, consider a 3-inch belt like this profile from 2POOD. Borrowing all the tech from the brand’s 4-inch Straight Belt, including the quick and secure WODClamp buckle design, this silhouette shrinks down the dimensions for a cozier fit that can be ideal for those with shorter torsos.

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer, owns multiple 2POOD belts and appreciates the comfort at play with this smaller 3-inch design, which the brand markets under the “Petite” moniker.

“I have a medium torso — not long or short — but I can definitely feel the added comfort from this smaller 2POOD belt,” she adds in reference to our 4.5 out of 5 rating for the category. “While I typically turn to my 4-inch Straight Belt for more support in heavier lifts, I can easily see where this ‘Petite’ model would be more appealing in training.”

In terms of adjustability, we rated this 2POOD 3-Inch Weightlifting Belt at 4.5 out of 5, too. The WODClamp buckle is a roller style that pairs nicely to the hook-and-loop strap. You can quickly get into and out of this belt, placing it among the best CrossFit equipment for athletes. Plus, you can really cinch down for a heightened sense of rigidity, meaning your heavy lifts can still be supported when the time comes for max efforts.

Another big feature separating 2POOD from the pack is the abundance of colors and patterns available across the brand’s belts. The 3-Inch Weightlifting Belt, for example, is available in vibrant patterns including “Dazed and Confused,” “Unapologetically American,” and “Sunflowers.” However, Meier notes that there are more patterns available in the larger 4-inch profile. “You can order a custom belt, but the price is nearly double,” she adds.

Finally, given this belt’s marketing to smaller athletes with shorter torsos, you can’t expect a large array of sizes available across the range. We rated the sizing at 3.75 out of 5 given that 2POOD offers this belt in sizes XXX-Small to Medium, or between 25.5 and 38.5 inches. This may be too small for those with larger waists, but if you are within the size range, this comfortable belt can be a solid addition to your best gym bag. 

For Olympic weightlifters, there are few brands as trusted as Eleiko. The Swedish-based company has produced some of the sport’s best barbells and weight plates. This Weightlifting Belt is no different thanks to a genuine leather build, secure double-prong buckle, and tapered design that can help improve mobility and comfort across the ribs and hips — key components to any worthwhile Olympic weightlifting session.

During trials, our tester, a USA Weightlifting Level-2 instructor, applauded this Eleiko belt for its construction, rating it at 5 out of 5. “I loved the stainless-steel belt buckle, and I’ve yet to experience any scuffs or fraying across the leather. It’s super high-quality,” they added.

We also scored the adjustability at 4 out of 5, noting that the double-pronged buckle can provide a better sense of security at the meeting point of the belt ends. Our tester also added that they could continuously find the right amount of tension for their given lifts. “However, those wanting the micro adjustment features of a hook-and-loop strap may prefer a belt featuring a different fastening mechanism,” they noted.

The rawhide leather used across this Eleiko lifting belt is also treated with a special component, helping it resist scuffs and scrapes that can easily pile up over extended strength training. However, we do recommend using this belt frequently in order to achieve that customized fit — the leather can show some rigidity straight out of the box that can require some involved break-in.

Lastly, we cannot gloss over the heightened price tag associated with this belt. At $140, it’s one of the more expensive leather options we’ve tested. However, we did rate the value at 4 out of 5 given the fact that while this Eleiko belt carries a higher upfront cost, the durability should withstand multiple years of use. As such, you could be investing in a fitness accessory that’s more than capable of lasting throughout your entire lifting career.

Of course, you want to remain comfortable during heavy squats, deadlifts, and other in-gym movements, but there’s a fine line between intra-workout coziness and helpful back support. Utilizing an 8.5-millimeter-thick patch of leather, the Rogue Faded 4-Inch Lifting Belt can be the perfect way to upgrade your setup without compromising how you feel in a given movement.

I’ve used this belt in training before and appreciate the attention to detail showcased across the design. The leather is stiff enough for added rigidity, allowing me to brace efficiently for a lower risk of injury, yet the material hugs my midsection rather than simply sitting across it. Plus, the rolled edges provide a comfortable shelf that doesn’t dig into my ribs or hips during lifts.

Of course, this custom fit takes some time — leather belts will require a break-in period — but I’ve been pleased nonetheless with the results and rated the comfort at 4.5 out of 5.

Additionally, this is one of the few buckle belts we’ve seen that offers half-inch spacing across the adjustment holes. Our tester enjoyed this feature, stating that they could easily cinch down to their liking across their abdomen. While security could be bolstered by using a double-prong buckle as opposed to the single-prong design displayed here, we still scored the adjustability at 4 out of 5.

This Rogue Faded belt also has plenty going for it in the style department. I love the faded leather look of this unit, which is only enhanced through the use of a black buckle and nickel-plated rivets. While some may prefer a more vibrant aesthetic, I still feel this vintage-inspired belt can stand out in any setting, leading to my 4 out of rating on appearance alone.

As stated above, the 4-Inch Lifting Belt from Rogue features an 8.5-millimeter thickness. This can help provide a strong sense of security across your lower back and make for excellent bracing setups. However, our tester noted that those more invested in specific strength sports like powerlifting may prefer a thicker design, potentially 10 millimeters thick or more. A thicker belt can carry a more rigid makeup, allowing you to better practice the four pillars of bracing for deadlifts. 

If you’re curious about which exercises can be most improved through a weightlifting belt, deadlifts can be a great place to start. The added support and rigidity across your lower back can help you better unlock numerous deadlift benefits while also keeping your form intact for a lower risk of injury. For our money, the Dominion 4-Inch Leather Belt can be perfect for these needs.

I’ve used this lifting belt in training before, and do agree that the support system is nearly unparalleled, which I attribute to the high-quality, 10-millimeter-thick leather. The material is more rigid with less room to flex, giving you plenty of support that also breaks in easily for that premier customized fit. We rated the construction at 4.75 out of 5, too, thanks to the double stitching across the seams that can help prevent any excessive fraying over time.

This Dominion weightlifting belt also uses a single-prong buckle that can be adjusted over the included holes featuring 1-inch spacing. While our tester had no real issues with achieving the right amount of tension, we do admit that the adjustability is lower than that of, say, a Velcro belt offering unrestricted micro-adjustments.

In terms of value, we scored this Leather Belt at 4.5 out of 5. Yes, the upfront cost is above the average $145 associated with other leather lifting belts of similar quality. However, you are getting a durable profile that can withstand plenty of use and abuse, ultimately saving you some coin in the long run. This can especially ring true if you only use a weightlifting belt during deadlifts — although there’s nothing wrong with deadlifting every day, if you’re up for the challenge.

We also don’t mind the higher price tag given that Dominion covers this lifting belt with a lifetime warranty. The brand is confident that the belt can last you a lifetime, but if any defects or wear pop up, Dominion will repair or replace your silhouette free of charge. That’s not a bad deal when thinking about supporting your deadlift PRs for months and years to come.

Naturally, getting into using a weightlifting belt for heavy lifts in the deadlift, back squat, muscle snatch, and more can be intimidating. Plus, the rigid nature of most lifting belts can be off-putting to novice lifters that are still growing accustomed to the stresses associated with heavy strength training. This Warm Body Cold Mind profile can be an excellent introductory course, though, thanks to its simplified roller buckle, hook-and-loop fastening system, and nylon makeup that can give you plenty of support where needed without compromising flexibility.

Our tester, a USA Weightlifting Level-2 instructor, used this 4-inch belt for a number of training sessions, including Olympic weightlifting movements and CrossFit workouts. “For light-to-moderate workouts, I felt very secure yet still flexible enough to work through my movements,” they stated in reference to their 5 out of 5 rating for the category. “There wasn’t any irritating digging across my ribs or hips, and the firmness wasn’t overbearing across the nylon profile.”

Additionally, we rated the adjustability at 4 out of 5 given the quick-and-simple hook-and-loop fastening system. Admittedly, the Velcro strap itself was shorter than other belts we’ve tried — which may be to the dismay of larger athletes — but we were still able to achieve a proper sense of security for an abundance of lifts.

While we think this lifting belt can be an excellent solution for powerlifting beginners, we do not believe it will be the last belt you purchase. While the nylon build can be ideal for finding your fitment preferences, there is still some rigidity left on the table when comparing this belt to more structurally sound leather options on the market. As you progress in weight training, you’re likely to want a little more structure across your abdomen and lower back.

Additionally, according to our tester, some of the stitching along the edge can begin to come loose after repeated training sessions, and you always need to worry about the hook-and-loop’s tackiness during storage. We rated the durability at 3.5 out of 5.

For athletes wanting a wallet-friendly lifting belt to add to their collection of the best gym accessories, a hook-and-loop profile will likely be your best option, with many coming in around $40. However, there are some silhouettes that can take the savings even further — such as this DMoose Neoprene Weightlifting Belt. Costing roughly $25, this is well below the average cost of similarly-built belts, with the added benefit of interchangeable back support.

The roller buckle and hook-and-loop strap system provide quick lockdowns and security during movements like the back squats and deadlifts BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings used it for. “It stayed securely in place and I credit that clever design,” he says, rating the locking mechanism a 4.5 out of 5. “The powder coating also beefs up the grip. Plus, the wide velcro helps it stay in place.”

The detachable lumbar pad also turns your belt design into a tapered aesthetic with 6 inches of support across your lower back. When removed, you still have a uniform 4-inch belt. We rated the adjustability at 4.5 out of 5, too, because interchanging the padding to your preferences is quick and simple.

I also appreciate the level of comfort the neoprene material brings to every lift, creating a breathable wrap around my midsection that doesn’t seem to lock in any perspiration or funk. Additionally, the neoprene is softer and more accommodating than some other nylon belts I have in rotation and sits comfortably across direct skin. Cummings and I both scored its comfort and durability 4 out of 5. “Compared to heavier-duty belts, the neoprene might seem a tad flimsy, but I think it’s a quality belt,” he adds. “At this price, it’s hard to beat as a value pick.”

That comfort does compromise some rigidity across the unit, which our tester pointed out when looking at this DMoose belt’s versatility in training. They noted that this gym accessory could be fine for lower-intensity days, “but I’d like to have a little more structure when going all out for PRs.” We attribute this to the more flexible neoprene and recommend reserving this belt for light days with your barbell and weights set. Overall, we rated the versatility at 3.75 out of 5.

The DMoose Neoprene Weightlifting Belt is available in your traditional small to extra-large size range, but be mindful that actual measurements are needed to find the right design for your waistline. 

According to the brand, you need to measure around your midsection across the belly button to determine your belt length — do not order based on your typical waist size. This DMoose belt has options for waist sizes between 25 and 40 inches, so if you’re at a larger measurement, you may need to find a different solution.