Best Crossfit Lifting Belts Reviews of 2022 [Top Picks]
A weightlifting belt made from either leather or nylon. It is an accessory item for supporting IAP (Intra-abdominal pressure) when performing heavy lifts, especially in Olympics weightlifting movements such as the Clean and Jerk and the Snatch, Powerlifting movements such as the Deadlift and in the sport of CrossFit where Olympic weightlifting and Powerlifting is performed in workouts or as part of training strength.
Weightlifting belts increase pressure in and around your abdomen, as well as provide a physical cue to promote core engagement. These two functions make it easier to maintain a stable core and good lifting technique at very heavy loads, which means your chances of a successful lift increase and your chances of injury theoretically decrease.
In this article, We’ll discuss the Best 5 Crossfit Lifting Belts available on the market.
Best 5 Crossfit Lifting Belts
1. WOD Nation Weight Lifting Belt
The WOD Nation 4 inch weight training belt is a Premium Weightlifting belt for all your Crossfit, Powerlifting & Olympic lifting needs. Designed and used by competition athletes this belt is perfect for all athletes no matter your level.
It is designed to provide strong abdominal and lower back support while keeping the belt amazingly comfortable. It is easy to take on and off with its quick tug of a ‘shark-tooth’ velcro straps, that can be easily tightened and loosened without losing time between reps.
You worry about your workout and let us worry about your back. This weightlifting belt not only offers first-class support but is also super comfortable. We used the best possible material to make this your weight belt from competitions to everyday workouts.
Key Features
- Firm Support and Amazing Comfort : The WOD Nation pro weightlifting belt is designed to give great abdominal and lower back support while still being amazingly comfortable.
- Easy to Secure and Remove During Workout : Many of our athletes like to take the weight belt on and off many times during their workout so we designed it to do just that. With a quick tug of the “shark-tooth” velcro strap you can tighten and loosen it without loosing time between reps.
- Promotes Better Lifting : Our belt forces you to lift more with your legs than your back, which is precisely the biomechanical position you want to use during deadlifts and squats with a barbell.
- Unisex Sizing Fits Both Men and Women : Measure around the waist between the hips and the ribs to determine proper size – Small : 27-32” Medium 32-36” Large 36-39” X-Large 39-43”
- Premium Materials and Construction : We use the best materials and in-house artisans to create a product that will be loved by you for years to come.
Specifications
| Size | Medium 32-35″ Waist |
| Material | Nylon |
| Brand | WOD Nation |
| Color | Black |
| Closure Type | Hook and Loop |
Pros
- Solid overall design
- Great overall budget belt with clasp
Cons
- Not as high performance as other belts of its style
2. Bear KompleX 4″ Straight Weightlifting Belt
The Bear KompleX Belt is one more incredible all around nylon belt while being reasonable. They are known for helping your lifting strategy during extraordinary and weighty squats, metcon developments, grabs, deadlifts, Olympic lifts, and then some.
The steel roller clasp keeps the belt secure while light enough for you to not feel like you’re wearing anything by any means. It has a 4″ in number velcro and movable measuring, ideal for any athletic form.
Assuming you’re searching for a CrossFit related belt that can take into account any size, we suggest picking Bear KompleX Strength Weightlifting Belt.
Key Features
- Great for Squats, Deadlifts, Snatches, Cleans, Jerks, and more
- Extreme Support and Stability for ALL of your lifts
- 4″ STRONG VELCRO AND ADJUSTABLE SIZING allow for Easy In and Easy out while performing multiple movements in workouts
- KEEP YOUR CORE TIGHT AND YOUR MIND RIGHT! Balance and core are key in strength training
Specifications
| Size | X-Small |
| Brand | Bear KompleX |
| Color | Black |
| Closure Type | Buckle, Hook and Loop |
Pros
- Unique designs
- Solid overall build
Cons
- Doesn’t stand out in any particular way
3. Dark Iron Fitness Weight Lifting Belt for Men & Women
One more choice for calfskin darlings, The Dark Iron Fitness Belt is truly tantamount to the ProFitness one and it’s basically up to your inclination which one you’d prefer to buy.
They have a 600 lb limit permitting you to sit and crouch. Further, it is USAPL endorsed implying that it very well may be utilized for proficient contests.
Made from 100% real bison conceal cowhide, implying that the lifting belt is graceful, delicate, and adaptable, giving you the help you want when you really want to support and remain solid during your lifts.
Created with master craftsmanship, you can generally depend on Dark Iron Fitness Leather Weightlifting Belt when you’re doing your substantial sets.
Key Features
- Strong: Our weightlifting belts for men and women leather don’t break, tear, or wear out. Enhances workouts while providing safe protection for your spine and core.
- Comfortable: Made from 100% genuine buffalo hide leather, the weight lifting belts are designed to be soft, supple, and flexible so they can help eliminate any pain, yet remain super supportive
- 600 Lb Limit: Allowed you to squat or deadlift well over 500 and 600 pounds without issues. The weight lifting belt for women and men is USAPL approved.
- Powerful: With the right thickness and width, our weightlifting belt allows for extra power, strength, and support in your back or abs to help improve your lifts by 10% on average.
- High Quality: Produced with expert craftsmanship, each gym belt is 4mm thick and 4″ with reinforced stitching and a double-tongue buckle that is sturdy enough to always have your back.
Specifications
| Size | MEDIUM 32″-40″ (Waist size not pant size) |
| Material | Leather |
| Brand | Dark Iron Fitness |
| Color | Black , red , white |
| Closure Type | Buckle, Hook and Loop |
Pros
- Highly supportive
- Great price for a leather belt
- Can do both CrossFit and powerlifting
Cons
- Rigid in comparison to Nylon
- Not standard for CrossFit
4. Harbinger 5-Inch Weightlifting Belt with Flexible Ultra-light Foam Core
Harbinger’s 5-Inch Foam Core Belt is for serious weightlifters needing back support. The Harbinger Foam Core weightlifting belt features an extra-wide 5-inch closed-cell foam belt with a 3-inch support strap overlay for maximum lower back and abdominal protection during heavy lifting. The flexible but lightweight foam core surrounded by abrasion-resistant nylon supports the back while maintaining muscle warmth. The heavy-gauge steel roller buckle makes tensioning easy, and the plush tricot lining is comfortable against the skin. Harbinger 5-Inch Foam Core Weightlifting Belts are available in four sizes, each designed to fit a range of waist measurements. It is important to measure correctly when selecting a weightlifting belt; do not use pant size. Measure around the waist between the hips and the ribs, starting and stopping at the belly button.
Key Features
- The measurement should include the adjustable belt portion
- Extra wide 5 inch strength training belt with 3 inch support strap provides maximum lower back and abdominal support for heavier lifts
- Thick, flexible ultra light closed cell foam provides maximum comfort and maintains muscle warmth
- Heavy gauge steel roller buckle makes tensioning simple and easy; plush tricot lining is comfortable against skin
- Durable abrasion resistant fabric flame laminated directly to foam core to prevent fraying and pilling
- Measure around the waist between the hips and the ribs to determine proper size: S (24 to 29 inches), M (29 to 33 inches), L (33 to 37 inches), XL (37 to 42 inches)
Specifications
| Size | Large (33 – 37 Inches) |
| Material | Blend |
| Brand | Harbinger |
| Color | Black |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
Pros
- Great price value
- Highly supportive
Cons
- Doesn’t stand out
- Back-focused design not loved by everyone
5. ProFitness Genuine Leather Workout Belt
While CrossFit competitors for the most part steer away from calfskin belts, assuming you do need one with an adaptable enough plan for the program, The ProFitness Workout Belt is a strong decision.
Reasonable, flexible, and agreeable in the wake of getting broken in, the belt offers in general extraordinary help. The primary benefit of a cowhide belt is the more noteworthy help, yet it loses adaptability in contrast with nylon, which is significant in CrossFit.
You may be keen on getting a calfskin belt all things being equal, maybe on the grounds that you intend to do some powerlifting as an afterthought or actually like the look and feel of cowhide. Provided that this is true, the ProFitness Genuine Leather Workout Belt is an incredible decision.
Calfskin’s primary benefit is that it can offer more help by and large than nylon, however it comes at the expense of adaptability and the capacity to embed Velcro, which implies it takes more time to get on and off.
Key Features
- Buckle closure
- IMPROVED FORM & TECHNIQUE: Maintaining proper squat and lifting form is essential to not only strength gains, but for reducing injuries. This weightlifting belt helps ensure you sustain balance and stability throughout your sets.
- PREVENT BACK INJURIES: Properly supporting your lower back (lumbar) is important, especially when lifting, twisting or supporting heavy weights. Our weightlifting belt is perfect for Cross Training exercises, powerlifting and daily fitness.
- COMFORTABLE LEATHER: Each 4” wide genuine leather belt is comfortable, adjustable and won’t slip or “ride” while you’re performing squats, power cleans, deadlifts, or clean and jerks; just lift, gain and support your physicality.
- BUILD CORE STRENGTH: Front to back, your core muscles play a major factor in your health and fitness. Our gym belt helps prevent back injury, but it also helps sustain strong abdominals and a thick back.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: ProFitness has worked hard to create the best workout belt made of genuine leather possible, however, if you don’t love it, return it within 60 days for a full, money back refund.
Specifications
| Size | Small |
| Material | Leather |
| Brand | ProFitness |
| Color | Black/Red |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
Pros
- Highly supportive
- Great price for a leather belt
- Can do both CrossFit and powerlifting
Cons
- Rigid in comparison to Nylon
- Not standard for CrossFit
6. Fire Team Fit Weight Lifting Belt for Men and Women
For another great overall design somewhere between the Rogue and the Schiek, the Fire Team Fit mixes strong back support with an overall flexible design.
Moderately priced and with all the same benefits as the other top picks, the company is highly supportive of veterans, you can feel good with this safe overall option to buy. It’s only problem is its lack of a standout feature, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
The Fire Team Fit Weightlifting Belt is the best choice if you’re looking for something lightweight, flexible, and easy to adjust on the fly. It doesn’t stand out in any category compared to the other top picks, but it works as a balanced and versatile belt with a solid build design. The amount of back support on it is great as well.
Key Features
- SLIDE STOP BUCKLE WITH PRECISE ADJUSTABILITY: Unlike a leather belt with a predetermined set of holes, the hook and loop support strap lets you adjust to the exact tightness you need for optimal comfort and support. Further, you’ll never worry about your belt coming unfastened during your PR’s. Our buckle is designed to keep your belt secure during your heaviest lifts. Whether you are a Bodybuilder, Olympic Lifter, Powerlifter or a Cross Trainer, our belt won’t let you down.
- SLIDE STOP BUCKLE WITH PRECISE ADJUSTABILITY: Unlike a leather belt with a predetermined set of holes, the hook and loop support strap lets you adjust to the exact tightness you need for optimal comfort and support. Further, you’ll never worry about your belt coming unfastened during your PR’s. Our buckle is designed to keep your belt secure during your heaviest lifts. Whether you are a Bodybuilder, Olympic Lifter, Powerlifter or a Cross Trainer, our belt won’t let you down.
- DESIGNED FOR OPTIMAL COMFORT AND FUNCTION: With its lightweight contoured design, our weightlifting belt helps prevent injury from hyperextension or hyperflexion (forced arch) of your spine during weightlifting. By offering support to your abdominal wall and your lumbar vertebrae, this lifting belt promotes safe lifting technique for Back Squats, Power Cleans, Deadlifts, Clean and Jerks, Overhead Squats and even heavy lifting at work or at home.
- OUR BELTS SUPPORT MORE THAN YOUR BACK: We lift others up. Many of our belts are designed to show support for servicemen and women across the USA. We appreciate those who put their lives on the line for others. That’s why $1 of every weightlifting belt sold here is given back to a non-profit for the support of US Combat Veterans. It’s the least we can do.
- VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS WITH A TRIED AND TRUE REPUTATION: We’ve been in business for 5 years and have vowed never to let our customers down. We think the continued health of our business is a testament to our unwavering customer service and a product we can stand behind.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: We’ve got your back! If your weightlifting belt ever breaks or becomes unsafe to use, we will replace it for free.
Specifications
| Size | Large |
| Brand | Fire Team Fit |
| Color | Black |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Waist (cm) | 43 Inches |
Pros
- Solid build design
- Supportive for its weight
Cons
- Not as supportive as other designs
- Contour can be annoying to some
7. Gabor Fitness Contoured Neoprene Back Support Weight Lifting Belt
The budget option on the list, the quick adjustment of the Garbor Fitness belt’s Velcro is the fastest adjustment on this list and very useful for CrossFit.
However, the lack of support compared to the other belts can be a problem but works for those who are looking for a comfortable, back contoured belt on a dime. The look of the belt is also flimsy, but its design is helpful for easy storage.
The Garbor Fitness Neoprene Contoured Weight Lifting Belt is by far the most affordable. It’s made of a neoprene foam body with a thicker back contour support. Its large Velcro strap is easily adjustable and it also is the most lightweight belt.
Key Features
- Super Light-Weight Neoprene Foam Body Allows for Mobility
- Contoured Design for Maximum Abdominal and Back Support
- Oversized Velcro Support Strap Keeps the Belt Tight
- Roller Buckle Makes Tightening Belt Easy
- Comfortable Inner-Lining and Durable Outer-Body, Fully Washable
Specifications
| Size | Large/XL (35″ – 42″) |
| Material | Neoprene, Leather |
| Brand | Gabor Fitness |
| Closure Type | Buckle, Hook and Loop |
Pros
- Very flexible
- Very affordable
- Easy to get on and off
Cons
- Not as supportive as other belts
- Neoprene throughout instead of nylon
8. Schiek Sports Model 2004 Nylon 4 3/4″ Weight Lifting Belt
Four-time women’s champion Tia Toomey’s preferred belt, the highly contoured design is beloved by CrossFitters. For others, the design is uncomfortable, proving to be one of the more controversial.
The build contains an adjustable clasp for support alongside their patented design. It’s expensive, but worth it for some, conforming to the natural shape of their back and hips.
We couldn’t leave the arena of high-performance belts without looking at the Schiek Sports Model 2004 Nylon 4 3/4″ Weight Lifting Belt. A favorite of Tia Toomey’s, four-time women’s CrossFit Games champion, the Schiek belt sports a unique design that may not be suitable for all users, but is built to support the natural shape of your back.
Key Features
- Nylon
- Buckle closure
- Downward angle fits the natural shape of the back.
- Hip and rib contour.
- 1-way VELCRO brand closure.
- Widens in the front.
- Dual closure system with heavy-duty, stainless-steel slide bar buckle.
- Made in the USA.
- 2-year manufacturer warranty.
Specifications
| Fabric Type | Nylon |
| Size | Small |
| Material | Nylon |
| Brand | Schiek |
| Color | Black |
Pros
- Highly contoured design
- Endorsed in competition
- Great build quality
Cons
- Higher price
- Doesn’t look great
- Uncomfortable for some people
9. Self-Locking Weight Lifting Belt
With a slightly different design philosophy but a similarly stylish design compared to the Rogue, the Element 26 Self-Locking Weight Lifting Belt goes for a contourless and padless design. The folks at Element 26 believe that even weight distribution and minimal padding actually provides the most support for proper form, and this is similar to the design of most leather belts.
Their self-locking and quick release mechanisms are also perfect for use in CrossFit competition, letting you lock and unlock and the belt’s tightening with ease.
Neck and neck with the Rogue USA Nylon Lifting Belt, the Element 26 Belt trades comfort for an overall more supportive design. While only 4” width all around, the lack of padding and uniform design keeps weight distribution even which is the style of most leather belts.
Key Features
- SELF-LOCKING SECURITY: Unlike other lifting belts that only rely on cheap straps to support your lifts, our weight lifting belt uses Self-Locking technology that will never wear down and risk injury during your olympic lifts. The self-locking buckle is extremely simple and easy to use, it releases immediately upon pulling the release roller, yet, will never open or slip no matter how big your lift! Quit worrying about your belt popping open, try the self-locking difference now!
- FUNCTIONALLY DESIGNED: One of the most frustrating aspects of other exercise belts is the silly use of contour and tapered designs. A weightlifting belt is designed to create even, consistent, intra-abdominal pressure to increase your stability during your lift, it’s not a back support that others claim to be. To do this most effectively, a uniform 4 inch profile has been shown time and time again to be the most effective design by Powerlifters, Olympic lifters, and Functional athletes!
- COMPETITION APPROVED: You know what is the worst? Buying a weightlifting belt and finding out you can’t use it in your competitions. The Element 26 Self-Locking Weightlifting Belt is fully approved for use in olympic lifting and functional fitness Competitions. Don’t be stuck having to buy twice, buy with confidence knowing this belt is approved for your competitions!
- BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE: The E26 Self-Locking Belt is made from 100% Premium Nylon, Full Metal Self-Locking Buckle, doesn’t have silly padded inserts and mesh coverings which result in unequal distribution of pressure during your lifts and designed with only one purpose in mind… ultimate performance for functional fitness athletes.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: The quickest way to tell if a product is of high quality is to look at the warranty the company provides. Cheaply made products have short or limited warranties because the companies know it won’t last a long time. At Element 26, we build only premium quality products and standby them with a lifetime warranty. If you ever have any problem, no worries, we got your back!
Specifications
| Size | Medium |
| Material | Nylon |
| Brand | Element 26 |
| Color | White |
| Closure Type | Self-Locking Buckle |
Pros
- Great build quality
- Great look
- Built for performance
Cons
- No padding for comfort
- No contouring or specific back support
10. ROGUE USA NYLON LIFTING BELT
For all-around benefits, you just can’t do better than The Rogue USA Nylon Lifting Belt. It’s flexible, stylish, has some back support, and is vetted by two-time CrossFit Games champion Mat Fraser. The ability to place a custom patch and the well-placed adjustable clasp are just icing on the cake, as is its sleek design and laser-etched logo.
Rogue has been top of the field for a while now, and that’s not soon to change. Plus, the price point has good options depending on whether you’d like to support local or get it for cheaper by import.
The preferred belt of CrossFit Games champion Mat Fraser, who won the 2017 Games with it on. This is the gold standard belt when it comes to CrossFit training. Sturdy, balanced, and versatile, this 4” width in the front, 5” in the back nylon belt sports 0.25” thick foam comes in five great looking styles and has a fantastic build quality from the most trusted brand in the business.
Key Features
- Designed and Manufactured in the USA.
- Co-developed with 2x CrossFit Games champ Mat Fraser.
- 5” back panel, tapering into 4”, with 3” nylon support strap.
- 1/4” thick Foam Frame with ripstop exterior and anti-microbial interior.
- Smooth buckle + roller and easy-to-find end of strap = quick and easy adjustments.
Specifications
| Brand | Rogue Fitness |
| Color | Various Colors |
| Made In USA | Yes |
| Width | 5″ w/ taper down to 4″ in the front |
| Material Type | 0.25″ thick Foam Frame
Ripstop Exterior w/ Antimicrobial Inner Smooth Buckle + Roller |
Pros
- Both supportive and flexible
- Highly endorsed
- Good performance for the price
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side
- Less support than a leather belt
Conclusion
These belts are made out of genuine leather or a combination of nylon and a foam-like material. The main purpose of these belts is to offer lower back support and prevent injuries when the user is engaged in weightlifting exercises.
A good belt will help you step up your weight lifting game. It will help you make progress faster, prevent injuries and build stronger core muscles. Pick the right one based on your personal situation and take your workouts to the next level, but remember that it’s only assistive: your technique, posture and core strength are all crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Crossfitters wear belts?
With all the work CrossFit athletes put into their training, it’s a wonder more of them don’t show up at their box with a weight belt. Rather, the pressure is exerted back against the thoracic spine, stabilizing it and keeping the athlete upright.
2. What type of lifting belt is best?
For heavy lifting always opt for a leather belt instead of the nylon belt because leather belts last longer than the nylon ones. Also, leather belts are more durable, and they provide better support. Also, make sure that the belt you choose has a prong buckle closure.
3. Can you lift heavy without a belt?
If you’ve never lifted heavy without a belt, then your core muscles could be significantly weaker than the surrounding areas. As such, you won’t be able to lift nearly the same amount of weight when you take the belt off. That’s a surefire recipe for an injury.
4. How do I choose a weightlifting belt?
The safest, most effective weightlifting belt is the one that fits you perfectly. Don’t go by your pants waist size. Instead, measure your midsection where the belt will sit while wearing clothes. Always go by the manufacturer’s size guide when purchasing a weightlifting belt.
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