Choosing lifting straps: a practical buying guide for better grip during strength training

Losing your grip can bring a heavy deadlift, row or pulling exercise to an early stop. Lifting straps help you hold on to a barbell or bar more securely, so your grip is less likely to become the limiting factor. But not every pair of fitness straps suits every training style.

Look out for these three common pitfalls:

• A bold marketing claim without clear specifications: terms such as “extra grip” don’t tell you much if the material that makes contact with the bar isn’t specified.
• Not enough attention to wrist comfort: thin lifting straps can dig in or slip during heavy sets.
• The wrong design for the exercise: some anti-slip lifting straps are made for strength training, but not for Olympic lifts where you need to be able to release the bar quickly.

Read on to find out which features to check and which models suit different types of users.

What should you look for in lifting straps?

1. Material and contact with the bar

Cotton lifting straps are lightweight, flexible and relatively easy to adjust. They can suit beginners and regular strength training. Check the width, length and stitching, though. Straps that are too short can be difficult to wrap around a barbell more than once.

For extra friction, there are lifting straps with extra grip. According to Thor Athletics’ product description, these have a rubber anti-slip coating on the section that touches the bar. This could be useful for deadlifts and rows, but check regularly that the coating isn’t coming away.

2. Wrist padding and fit

If you train with heavy weights regularly, lifting straps with wrist padding may be a good choice. Neoprene padding can make contact between the strap and your skin feel softer. However, fit can vary from person to person, so check the sizing and the width of the strap.

Look for an adjustable loop that sits securely around your wrist without unnecessarily restricting hand movement. The strap should be snug enough not to slip, but it shouldn’t pinch.

3. Use, care and safety

Lifting straps are an aid, not a replacement for regular grip training. Alternate heavy sets with straps with exercises where you hold the bar without assistance.

Before each training session, check for:

• fraying cotton;
• loose or damaged stitching;
• cracks in the rubber coating;
• misshapen loops;
• a fastening or wrap that won’t stay in place.

For the Thor Athletics models, the product information says to hand-wash the straps in cold water and leave them to air-dry. According to the information, machine-washing can cause shrinkage or make the rubber layer come away. These models should also not be used for snatches, clean and jerks or other Olympic weightlifting exercises.

Which lifting straps suit your training style?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Thor Athletics Lifting Straps Black

Why it suits this profile: This cotton pair is a good option if you’re trying wrist straps for the first time with deadlifts, rows and other pulling exercises.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description specifies the material, dimensions of 50,8–55,8 cm by 3,8 cm and neoprene wrist padding. So you don’t have to rely on the term “lifting straps” alone.

Key benefit & features

100% cotton straps, neoprene wrist padding, supplied as a pair and designed for strength training.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

Thor Athletics Lifting Straps Extra Grip Black

Why it suits this profile: This model is a good fit for strength athletes who want more friction between the strap and the bar during heavy deadlifts and rows.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Rather than making a general claim about grip, the product information specifies a rubber coating on the contact surface, reinforced stitching and hand-washing for care.

Key benefit & features

100% cotton, neoprene wrist padding, rubber anti-slip coating and a pair of two straps.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive training

Assistants for strength training, non-slip and padded lifting straps

Why it suits this profile: The product name describes an adjustable, anti-slip and padded design for users looking for wrist comfort and a secure fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The details on adjustability, padding and a load capacity of up to 272 kg give you more to go on than a vague claim about heavy training. Always check the current product details and the condition of the straps before use.

Key benefit & features

Anti-slip design, wrist padding, adjustable fit and supplied as a set of two.

Frequently asked questions about fitness straps

Are lifting straps suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners can use them for exercises where grip loss affects their form. First, learn how to wrap the strap around the bar correctly, and make sure you also train regularly without assistance. That way, you’ll continue to develop your natural grip.

How long do lifting straps last?

Their lifespan depends on the material, how often you train, the load and how well you care for them. Cotton can fray over time, while the coating on anti-slip lifting straps can wear down. Before each training session, check the fabric, stitching, loop and any rubber coating. Replace damaged straps straight away.

Can you use lifting straps for every weightlifting exercise?

No. They’re mainly designed for controlled strength training, such as deadlifts, rows and heavy pulling exercises. With fast Olympic movements, straps can make it harder to release the bar. Always follow the usage restrictions for the specific product and don’t use it for exercises the manufacturer advises against.