A lifting belt is essential if youโre planning to go far in the powerlifting world. However, finding the best powerlifting is different from other lifting belts.
In my opinion, the Inzer Advance Designs Forever Lever Belt is the powerlifting belt you should opt for (click for todayโs price on Amazon).
When I first started powerlifting, this was the belt I picked and it has been my choice ever since. Itโs an ideal choice for both serious beginners and the most seasoned powerlifters.
As you get stronger, the belt will stay durable and comfortable. Itโs significantly easier to break-in compared with other belts, yet stays rigid enough to support your core and back. It also has a lifetime warranty.
In the following article, Iโll walk you through everything you need to know before buying the ideal powerlifting belt for your needs!
Table of Contents
Top 12 Best Powerlifting Belts for 2023
Finding the best powerlifting belt for your needs might be a difficult path to walk alone. Powerlifting belts vary according to materials, buckling styles, and even prices!
For that reason, Iโll cut your search process short and give you a brief overview of some of the best options that you can find out there.
1. Inzer Advance Designs Forever Lever Belt – Best Overall Powerlifting Belt
Kicking off the next pick with my personal overall favorite pick for a powerlifting belt: the Inzer Forever Lever Belt.ย
This belt is made in the USA from top quality genuine leather. It also has a layer of suede finish for elegance and added slip resistance.
The belt also features four layers of high density and corrosion-resistant nylon threads that are lock-stitched to the belt. These different layers give the belt the 10 millimeters thickness needed for the International Powerlifting Federation competition standards.
However, the lifting belt is also available in 13 mm thickness for those elite powerlifters who need that extra thickness for lifting a ton of weight.
Not only that, but the belt is also available in multiple size options to suit all kinds of body sizes and lengths.
The belt comes with a super durable lever buckle that makes it easy to put on and tighten around the core. However, you can also find it in prongs if you prefer fine adjustability.
The belt might be a bit pricey, but itโs a once in a lifetime investment, so you wonโt have to replace the belt ever again!ย ย
In fact, Iโve used my Inzer Forever Lever belt for 13 years and it shows no sign of wear and tear.
Avi Silverberg, National Coach of Canada's Powerlifting Team
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: lever
Pros
โ ย ย ย Excellent for competitive powerlifting
โ ย ย ย Uses a quick-release lever for easy wearing and taking off
โ ย ย ย Extremely durable and long-lasting materials
Cons
โ ย ย ย A bit pricey
2. Gymreapers 10mm Lever Belt – Best for Lifters Who Compete in the USPA
At 10mm thick, this Gymreapers lever belt is suitable for both beginners and advanced lifters (to a certain extent). However, Gymreapers also makes a 13mm belt for lifters who are looking for more support.
One important thing to note is that this belt is USPA approved but not IPF/USAPL approved. As such, itโs best for powerlifters who compete in the USPA or even for casual lifters who prefer using a leather belt over a nylon belt.
This belt is very well made. The reinforced seams are smooth and have yet to bust open after several months of heavy use. I also like how lightweight and comfortable it is, even when Iโm deadlifting, since other belts Iโve used in the past have dug into my ribs during my heavy lifts.
One thing I especially love about this belt is the number of sizes it's available in. It comes in 6 sizes from XS to XXL. Each belt has 7 different holes, which means you can get it to fit just right no matter what.
This is an excellent feature for powerlifters who may alternate between weight classes because you can get a good fit without needing a new belt as your weight changes.
Another thing that impresses me about this belt is the quality of the lever. The parts all line up perfectly when the belt is closed, and the hinges are smooth. Iโve never had it pop open in the middle of my sets whether Iโm doing heavy singles or sets of 6-8 reps.
The leverโs finish has also yet to chip or fade, and Iโve put this belt through a lot of abuse in the time Iโve been using it.
With that said, I donโt like how loose the belt is when the lever is unlatched. This makes it difficult to keep the belt around my waist in between sets without the lever secured.ย
Another drawback is that the Gymreapers logo takes up a large portion of the back of the belt. This isnโt a big deal if you donโt mind showing off your support for the brands you wear. But if you have a more minimalist style, you may not like how the belt looks with the logo because itโs not exactly subtle.
If you want to read my complete review, check out my article Gymreapers Belt Review.ย
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: lever
Pros
- Comes in 6 sizes (XS to XXL)
- 10mm width suits a wide range of lifters
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Has 7 holes to give you a customized fit
Cons
- Not IPF certified
- Is not really 4โ wide (itโs only 3.75โ)
- Logo on the back may be too flashy for some people
3. ROGUE Ohio Powerlifting Belt – Best Powerlifting Belt For Women
Rogue is one of the most popular manufacturers of powerlifting belts, so itโs no surprise that some of its belts make the list.
Rogue Ohio is one of the best weightlifting belts for female powerlifters. This belt is designed for athletes with smaller builds to provide them with a snug fit support without hard digging into the hips or rips of the user.
The lifting belt is 3 inches wide (7 cm). What makes this belt special is that it has a standard thickness of about 10 mm in both versions. This thickness is made from vegetable-tanned leather.
This makes it extra durable without hindering the mobility of the lifter. The belt is also water-resistant, so you wonโt have to worry about your sweat eating it away.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 7 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: double prong belts
Pros
โ ย ย ย Ideal for women and smaller athletes
โ ย ย ย Approved by the IPF
โ ย ย ย Softer than other leather options
Cons
โ ย ย ย Lacks a 13 mm option
4. ROGUE ECHO Lifting Belt – Best Approved Powerlifting Belt For The Money
If youโre looking for a powerlifting belt thatโs approved by the IPF while saving some of your hard-earned cash, the Rogue Echo lifting belt might be a top choice for you.
The belt is made from IPF-approved genuine leathers and has all the specifications of their technical rule book met.
The leather is extremely durable for its price. In fact, the hard leather might be a bit too stiff in the beginning, so itโll need some break-in time to conform to your body.
For example, the beltโs thickness is about 10 mm, which is the ideal standard for competitive powerlifting. Also, itโs 4 inches in width (10 cm), which makes it suitable for all body sizes.
Yet, if that sizing doesnโt suit you, Rogue Echo is available in 5 length options to choose from.
provided below.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: single prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย Approved by the IPF
โ ย ย ย Durable construction
โ ย ย ย Easily adjustable
Cons
โ ย ย ย Takes weeks to break-in
5. Dark Iron Fitness Pro Weight Lifting Belt for Men and Women -Best Unapproved Powerlifting Belt For The Money
If youโre not into lifting competitively, you wonโt need to stick to some specifications that are set by the IPF.
So, if youโre looking for a good powerlifting belt that saves you a lot of money in that case, consider the Dark Iron Lifting Belt.
Although Dark Iron Fitness claims that the belt is approved, itโs not among the latest edition list of the approved belts list. The reason behind that is that it has a maximum width of about 4.5 inches (11.4 cm), which exceeds the 10-cm limit.
The double prong lifting belt is made of top quality buffalo hide leather. This makes it soft on the body, so it wonโt dig into your torso or hips while lifting.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 4 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 11.4 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: double prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย A great choice for money if youโre not into competitive powerlifting
โ ย ย ย Soft but durable buffalo hide leather
โ ย ย ย Multiple size options
Cons
โ ย ย ย The coloring dye can stain your clothes
6. RDX Powerlifting Belt for Weight Lifting – Most Functional Powerlifting Belt
The RDX lifting belt is one of the superior choices for many lifters. Itโs one of the most versatile and functional options that you may find out there.
The belt is made of oil-tanned Nubuck leather, which gives it an excellent balance between durability and softness.
The belt is also fortified with multiple stitching lines along the belt to help it stand the test of time. This means that youโll be able to use this belt daily for years without worrying about its integrity.
Itโs a good weightlifting belt that is also good for many other activities. These activities include general weightlifting and strongman. The belt is approved for competitive powerlifting in some federations, but not all.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: double prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย Highly versatile option
โ ย ย ย Dual stitching for extra durability
โ ย ย ย Remarkable classic design
Cons
โ ย ย ย Not approved for all powerlifting federations
7. LiftingLarge Economy Lever Belt – Best Lever Powerlifting Belt
Although the Inzer Forever lever belt remains my top option for a powerlifting belt, the Lifting Large Economy Belt counts as a great additional option with a lever closure.
This one is made entirely of leather without using filler materials. While this makes it excellent for durability, it also makes it a bit heavier than other belts.
The leather is covered with a black suede layer from the inside and the outside. This makes it super soft and comfortable while wearing for a long time.
The belt has the standard 10 mm thickness and 10 cm straight width throughout the belt. This makes it ideal for competitive powerlifting.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: lever
Pros
โ ย ย ย Durable lever closure
โ ย ย ย Ideal for lifters who prefer belts without logos
โ ย ย ย Heavy stitching for added sturdiness
Cons
โ ย ย ย A product that should last forever shouldnโt have a one year of warranty
8. Rogue Ohio Lifting Belt – Best Single Prong Powerlifting Belt
The double prong 3-inch Rogue Ohio was excellent for small build lifters and women. However, if you like the features of this belt, it also comes in a standard 10 cm wide version.
Even better, if youโre looking for a single prong belt, this one is among the best single prong options that you can opt for.
Itโs made of Rogueโs American genuine leather, which makes it excellent for spinal support while powerlifting. Moreover, it sticks to all the IPF guidelines, so itโs fit for competitive powerlifting as well.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: single prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย Durable single prong construction
โ ย ย ย Approved for powerlifting competitions
โ ย ย ย Stylish design
Cons
โ ย ย ย A bit expensive for a prong buckle belt
9. Lifting Large Competition Powerlifting Belt – Best Double Prong Powerlifting Belt
Since various situations need different adjustments of your buckle, you might need a powerlifting belt that makes this easier for you.
If you need to regularly adjust your belt for different situations (i.e. tighter for squats and looser for deadlifts), a double prong buckle will do the trick for you.
This belt is made of genuine leather of great quality. Not only that, but the inner layers of the lifting belt are also made of leather, which makes it remarkably durable while lifting 100s of pounds daily.
The leather is also covered with a suede layer that makes it soft and comfortable to wear for a long time.
Additionally, it has no logo in the background, which keeps you in the safe zone in some powerlifting competitions (certain types of logos are not permitted on the competition platform)
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 13 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: double prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย Ideal for all kinds of competitive powerlifting
โ ย ย ย Highly adjustable
โ ย ย ย Double suede layers for added comfort and slip-resistance
Cons
โ ย ย ย Isnโt ideal for abdominal and core tightening
10. Rogue's 4″ Nylon Weightlifting Belt – Best Nylon Powerlifting Belt
Another powerlifting belt from Rogue. However, this one is a bit different from the others. For starters, this one is made from nylon.
Nylon is a fully synthetic fabric with no inclusion of leather whatsoever. This makes this belt an excellent alternative for vegans who prefer to avoid animal hide leathers.
Nylon is also characterized by being ultra-durable. While it might not be as durable as leather, it still packs a lot of sturdiness needed for support and longevity.
Itโs also extremely affordable, which makes it a great option for buyers on a budget. The lightweight nature of the belt makes it ideal for multiple weightlifting movements. One thing you should know is that this belt is that itโs not fit for competitive powerlifting.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: Nylon
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: steel tensioning buckle
Pros
โ ย ย ย Ideal for buyers on a budget
โ ย ย ย A perfect alternative for vegan weightlifters
โ ย ย ย Lightweight and easy to wear
Cons
โ ย ย ย Not approved for competition
โ ย ย ย Less durable than leather
11. Economy Single Prong Pink Belt- Pink Powerlifting Belt
Last but not least. If you prefer color variety, you can try this powerlifting belt. Itโs covered on the inside and the outside with pink suede.
This makes it ideal for women powerlifters who want to match their gear. However, the belt has a lot more quality than you might expect!
For example, the leather used in this belt is ultra-durable for its inexpensive price. Also, it has 6 rows of stitching throughout the belt, which ensures a decent level of durability.
The seamless roller buckle is also designed to not get in your way while lifting the bar close to your body.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: single prong
Pros
โ ย ย ย Impressive color
โ ย ย ย Approved by the IPF and other competitive powerlifting federations
โ ย ย ย Heavily stitched for heavy-duty usage
Cons
โ ย ย ย The straight prong makes it hard to remove
12. Iron Bull Strength 10mm Double Prong Power Belt – Featured Powerlifting Belt
The Iron Bull 10mm Double Prong Power Belt is a high-quality powerlifting belt designed to provide support and stability during heavy lifting. The belt is made from 10mm thick leather that is both durable and comfortable. It features a double-prong buckle that is easy to adjust and a wide 4-inch width that provides excellent lumbar support.
I have been using the Iron Bull 10mm Double Prong Power Belt for a few months now and have been impressed with it. The belt is comfortable, even when I am lifting heavy weights. It provides excellent support and stability and has helped me lift more weight on my squats, deadlifts, and other compound exercises.
One of the things that I like most about the Iron Bull 10mm Double Prong Power Belt is that it is very adjustable. The belt has a double-prong buckle that allows you to customize the fit to your individual needs. This is important, as a poorly-fitting belt can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.
Overall, I am happy with the Iron Bull 10mm Double Prong Power Belt. It has high-quality material for a powerlifting belt that is both comfortable and supportive. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a way to lift heavier weights and protect their back.
Specifications
โ ย ย ย Material: leather
โ ย ย ย Thickness: 10 mm
โ ย ย ย Width: 10 cm (3.9in) straight
โ ย ย ย Closure: Double prong roller buckle
โ ย ย ย Suede Finish
Pros
โ ย ย ย Durable 10mm leather
โ ย ย ย Comfortable to wear
โ ย ย ย Excellent support and stability
โ ย ย ย Wide 4-inch width
โ ย ย ย Double prong buckle
โ ย ย ย IPF/USAPL/USPA/IPL/IWF/USAW approved
Cons
โ ย ย ย May be too thick for some people
โ ย ย ย Can be a bit stiff at first
Benefits of Wearing A Powerlifting Belt
Powerlifting is all about pushing your body beyond its biological barriers and limits to lift as much weight as your muscle allows you to.
This requires a tremendous amount of strength and muscle coordination for you to do it the right way.
The powerlifting belts are extremely popular within the lifting communities for a lot of reasons. Hereโs a list of all the true benefits that you might get by using a powerlifting belt.
Stabilize Your Back and Reduce Spinal Stress
While all the other benefits of a powerlifting belt might be a subject of debate among lifters, this one is the only benefit thatโs agreed on among the community.
A powerlifting belt is rigid enough to brace your abdomen from the back as well as the core. This helps in reducing the spinal stress and stabilizes your back while listing a ton of weight.
Reminds You to Stay Tight
While powerlifting a ton of weight, you need your body to stay in top tension condition all the time. In other words, you need to keep your core tight to stabilize your body and avoid injuring yourself or even failing the rep.
Powerlifting belts are designed to be noticeably tight around your torso region. This extra tightness can be a perfect internal reminder to keep your core tight all the time.
Helps You Overcome Minor Back Pains
Ever noticed how pressing certain pains and tight bandages can soothe minor pains?
If you already developed dull lower back pains, using a lifting belt can help you overcome or reduce the severity of the flare-ups that arise while lifting.
However, you need to know that lifting belts are no cure for any pain, which is tested and assured by scientific communities. In fact, lifting belts can cause back pains if used improperly.
Instead, you may count on your powerlifting belt as a part of your rehabilitation program to continue lifting some heavier weights with a minor injury in the lower back.
Slows Down The Fatigue Build Up in Competitive Powerlifting
In competitive powerlifting, you need to do 3 max attempts for squat, deadlift, and bench press during a meet with the final one being a deadlift.
Since deadlifts usually need extra strength from your mid and lower back, you might want to save some of their power till the very end. On the flip side, completely depleting their strength on squats and bench presses means that your deadlift will be much weaker.
Although the fatigue is going to build up anyway, using a lifting belt while bench pressing and squatting might actually help you slow down this effect.
As you know, this extremely minor difference can actually make it or break it while lifting competitively.
Non-Powerlifting Benefits
Besides physical benefits, a powerlifting belt can also be a mental activation tool that helps you maintain top form and tension throughout your whole powerlifting training session.
Linking your brain with a certain trigger factor has been well researched for decades now. In fact, itโs scientific name is mental rehearsal. According to many sources, thereโs solid proof that it works for athletes in general.
Once you wrap the powerlifting belt around your torso, your brain starts to go on โfull powerlifting modeโ. With time, every powerlifter will experience this sensation of being โmore readyโ for lifting once the belt is on.
Another benefit of using a lifting belt is to keep your shirt in place while doing geared bench presses. In that case, any kind of belt will do if youโre not lifting in a competition.
What Makes A Powerlifting Belt Approved For Competition?
If youโre going to lift competitively, there are some requirements that youโll have to stick to. While these conditions might be too complex, Iโll simplify all the things that you need to know about them regarding the brands and the specifications.
Brands
To make things easier, the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) issues a list of all the approved brands that can be used at their sanctioned competitions.
Only apparels, wraps, and belts from the brands that are officially registered and approved by the technical committee of the IPF are approved for use in their powerlifting competitions, whether theyโre local or worldwide.
Hereโs a list with all the approved products categorized by brands, so you can make sure that your powerlifting belt is fit for IPF sponsored competitions. But, if youโre not planning to lift competitively, this shouldnโt be a problem for you.
Specifications
The previous list of approved brands is made according to the technical rule book of the IPF. Here's a quick overview of some of the most important specifications that you need to keep in check.
โ ย ย ย Materials: can be made of leather, vinyl or other similar non-stretch materials of one or more layers
โ ย ย ย Gluing and stitching the fabrics together are both allowed
โ ย ย ย Single prong, double prong, and lever buckles are permitted.
โ ย ย ย Maximum allowed thickness is 13 mm
โ ย ย ย Maximum allowed width is 10 cm
As you can see, most of the technical rules of specifications match many belts on the list, as most brands try to make their belts according to competitive standards.
What To Look For In A Powerlifting Belt?
As you can see, there are many aspects and specifications that affect the quality of a powerlifting belt and your experience with it.
To make the best out of your investment, you need to pick the ideal set points for this wide variety of features and aspects.
In the following section, Iโll provide you with an overview of these aspects. This can help you choose the ideal one for your needs.
Material: Velcro vs. Leather
The material of the belt is one of the most critical factors while choosing a powerlifting belt.ย
If youโre a beginner, you can use a velcro belt.ย ย
Theyโre easy to put on and off. However, they lack the support needed for actual powerlifting. Also, theyโre not fit for competitive powerlifting (i.e. theyโre not approved).
Theyโre only good for keeping some tension of your core while lifting.ย
However, they cost much less than a leather lifting belt, so theyโre a great choice if youโre on a tight budget. Some of my favorite velcro strap lifting belts come from Nike. Check out my full review of the Nike Lifting Belts.
On the other hand, leather belts are the golden standard for serious and competitive powerlifting. They carry all the benefits you might get from a lifting belt, such as excellent support and durability.
Leather lifting belts are classified into genuine leather, grain leather, and full-grain leather. While genuine leather is considered the lowest grade of leather, they still carry a decent level of durability that youโre going to need for powerlifting.
While leather lifting belts are a bit pricer when compared to other belts, such as nylon and velcro, they offer the true level of spinal support you need while lifting tons of weights. For example, Rogue's Nylon Weightlifting Belt.
There are also other materials that are used for powerlifting belts. For instance, the belts can be made of vinyl plastics, like thermoplastic polyurethane and nylon.
While the IPF approves the use of vinyl belts in competitive powerlifting, itโs highly unlikely to find elite lifters relying on any material but high-quality leather lifting belts.
Thickness: 10 mm vs. 13 mm Belt
Another thing that you might come across while searching for a powerlifting belt is its thickness. In fact, the thickness is as important for a beginner powerlifter as it is for an advanced one.
The thickness of your belt has a critical role in determining the level of support youโre going to have while powerlifting.
Ideally, most lifting belts on the market range between 10 mm and 13 mm. In some cases, belts come in thinner variations, such as the Grizzly Lifting Belt, which is 7mm thick. The proficiency level isnโt always the main factor while picking the ideal thickness.
Instead, choosing between these belts depends on many factors. These ones include the level of support you need, your body type, and other specifications that Iโll discuss later. Hereโs a breakdown of each one of them, so you can choose the one that suits your body.
The 10 mm Belt
The 10 mm belts are the more popular standard of powerlifting belts, and theyโre also more affordable than the 13 mm ones.
As you know, most lifting belts are made of tough leather materials. This makes the belt a bit more challenging to wrap and adjust around your torso.
However, with a 10 mm belt, this โbreak-inโ time will be much faster. This means that youโll get used to the belt more as it conforms to your body with every workout.
The 100mm belts are also less rigid than the 13 mm counterparts. This makes the 10 mm belts sit more comfortably on your waist in most cases. Thatโs why theyโre great belts for beginners in general.
If you want to take things professionally, the 10 mm belts will come in handy. Theyโre approved for competitive powerlifting. Yet, with their versatility, youโll be able to use them in multiple workouts in the gym.
The 13 mm Belt
The 13 mm Belt is usually fit for the elite level lifting. Itโs more expensive and usually used by people who can make the most out of it. Hereโs what you should know about them. Similar to the 10 mm ones, theyโre also fit for competitive powerlifting.
The 13 mm belts are 30% thicker than 10 mm ones, so theyโre also noticeably more rigid than them. The extra rigidity is great for support and stabilization of your back, so it can help elite lifters to pull higher weights.
Also, the extra rigidity accounts for a longer break-in period as well as noticeably less sensation of comfort while wearing. While the 10 mm can be used for different workouts in the gym, itโs much more difficult to do the same with the 13 mm one.
So unless youโre a competitive powerlifter trying to push your body beyond its biological limits, or you're a bigger guy, the 13 mm belt is a bit overkill.
Buckle: Prong vs. Lever
One of the most crucial considerations while choosing a powerlifting belt is its buckle type. As a rule of thumb, there are two types of reliable buckles for powerlifting belts on the market.
These ones are either prong or lever. In fact, prong buckles can also be single like Rogue Ohio Lifting Belt or double like Lifting LargeCompetition Powerlifting Belt. Letโs have a quick look at their features, so you can choose the ideal fit for you.
Prong Buckles
Prong buckles are the classic closures for most belts, whether theyโre powerlifting or any other weightlifting type.
They come in various configurations, including single and double prongs. Although three-prong powerlifting belts can be found, theyโre extremely rare to use and require ultra-special conditions when compared to the other ones.
This type of closure has an excellent level of security. Yet, itโs durability level can be a bit inferior to lever buckles, especially when the prongs are paired with flimsy belt materials.
However, what makes them really stand out is the ability to adjust them. While both buckle styles are easy to adjust, prong belts are significantly quicker for adjustment around your waist.
This ease of adjustment is extremely important to secure a snug fit, which can vary depending on many factors, such as clothing thickness, food and water intake, type of lifts, and more.
On the flip side, prong buckles are notorious for being extremely time-consuming when youโre putting it on and taking it off.
Lever Buckles
Lever buckles are the newest type of buckle closures for lifting belts. Theyโre praised for providing excellent qualities to powerlifting belts while costing a small bit more than conventional prong buckles.
As you already know, velcro powerlifting belts are only fine for beginners. What makes lever buckles special is that they combine the velcroโs ease of putting on and off with prongโs durability.
In fact, a lever buckle will be much more durable when compared to a prong buckle of a lesser quality belt. Lever buckles also make it much easier to extra tight.
The only drawback of lever buckle is that they arenโt as swift when it comes to adjusting the belt around your waist.
Which One to Go for?
If weโre talking in terms of money, prong buckles are less expensive than lever ones. Youโll be saving about 20 to 30 bucks by opting for prongs instead of a lever.
Since the price difference isnโt huge and you should be buying a powerlifting belt once in a lifetime, you need to consider a long term investment on this one.
Thatโs why I recommend going for a powerlifting belt with a lever buckle because theyโre much easier to adjust and quicker to put on and off.
In that case, Inzer Advance Designs Forever Belt is a great lever buckle powerlifting belt. However, if you prefer adjustability, prong buckles would make your life much easier!
Take a look at my head-to-head comparison between the Inzer Belt vs SBD Belt.
Width: Straight vs. Tapered
The width of the lifting belt determines the size of the supported area in the back (usually either 3 or 4 inches wide). Different types and lengths of bodies require different belt widths. However, the IPF limits the maximum width at any point of the lifting belt to 4-inches.
In some cases, youโll find a tapered lifting belt thatโs significantly wide in the back, which makes them unapproved for competition. Not only that but if a belt is too wide, itโll also greatly affect your mobility and flexibility.
Yet, if youโre not competitive powerlifting, the general width of a lifting belt shouldnโt make a huge difference in your performance.
Check out the difference between a 3 and 4 inch powerlifting belt.
Powerlifting Belt vs. Weightlifting Belt:ย Whatโs The Difference?
To answer this question, I asked a professional weightlifter, and he gave me this response:
โSo, weightlifting belts can be leather, however, the weightlifting belts abide by different regulations in terms of width and thickness.ย ย
Theyโre thinner, which makes them more playable and allows for more mobility in deep weightlifting movements.
Youโll also notice that weightlifting belts are usually tapered, so theyโre skinnier around the front and sides than the back. An example of this is the Schiek Lifting Belt, which is one of the best Olympic weightlifting belts on the market (click for full review).
In weightlifting, the buckles might get in the way at the finish positions in many movements where the bar hits them on its way up when the lifter keeps the bar close. Thatโs why weightlifters also prefer velcro over buckles.
However, I do have a buckle on my belt, but thatโs a personal preference that many weightlifters consider an offset.โ
How To Use A Belt Properly
To make the most out of the powerlifting belt, you have to know how to use it correctly. However, the process is extremely simple once you keep in mind the main function of the belt.
Simply, the belt works by increasing the pressure on your abdomen and core to support your back.
As I mentioned earlier, the thickness of the belt also affects the quality of the exercise youโre doing. For example, implementing the right breathing technique while lifting is one of the crucial factors while picking the right thickness for you.
So, you need to tighten the belt enough that you canโt fit your finger between your abdomen and the belt.
However, it needs to have ample space to allow you to breathe into your abdomen to create this tight sensation.
For more information on this, read my article on: Deadlift Belt Position: Where Should It Be? And, How Tight?
How To Wear A Belt For Squats & Deadlifts
Hereโs how you wear the belt on your own.:
- Choose the right area for the belt (usually in the middle of the abdomen for squats and deadlifts)
- Place the belt around your back
- Pull the end of the belt towards the buckle section
- Secure the end around the buckle
- Suck in the stomach
- Tighten the prongs or the lever to the maximum level
- Tuck the rest of the belt through the loop
- Test the best out for adjustment
Conclusion
wrapping things up, a good powerlifting belt must be easy to break-in while staying super durable to support your back. For that reason, I pick Inzer Advance Designs Forever Lever Belt as my number one recommendation.
The belt is super reliable and easy to wear and take off. It has been perfect for me as a beginner as well as an advanced lifter, so it should last you for a long while too.
However, if youโre on a budget and looking for a competitive-friendly alternative, you can go for ROGUE ECHO Lifting Belt. it can give you multiple benefits of a powerlifting belt for a fraction of what an elite-grade belt will cost you.
Related Articles:
- Inzer Belt vs Pioneer Belt: Which is Better?
- Harbinger Lifting Belt Review: Pros, Cons, Is It Worth It?
- Valeo 4-Inch Lifting Belt Review: Pros, Cons, Is It Worth It?
- How To Put On A Weightlifting Belt? (Step-By-Step)
- How Tight Should A Lifting Belt Be? (Breakdown Per Exercise)