When you enter the gym with serious intentions—deadlifts, shrugs, or heavy rows—your grip strength can soon become your weakest link. It’s maddening when your back or legs are set to go the distance, yet your hands simply can’t keep up. That’s where lift straps enter the picture. But with so many out there, the question is: what are the best lift straps for gym?
n this guide, we’re going to dissect the best lifting straps you can rely on, why they’re different, what to look out for, and what ones are worth stuffing your gym bag with—whether you’re a newbie or experienced lifter in pursuit of PRs.
Why Use Lift Straps at All?
Let’s get why lifters love these straps before we dive into which ones are most effective.
Lift straps encircle your wrist and the dumbbell or barbell, providing you with a firmer, more solid grip.
They:
- Minimize fatigue of the grip
- Allow you to lift heavier loads
- Enhance form and concentration
- Prevent injury caused by bad bar control
In lifts such as deadlifts, Romanian deadlifts, barbell rows, shrugs, and even pull-ups, lift straps will enable you to concentrate on the target muscle group rather than be concerned that the bar will slide out of your hands.
Types of Lift Straps: What You’re Buying
Not every strap is equal. These are the three most common types you’ll see in the gym:
1. Lasso Straps
These are the most popular and beginner-friendly straps. You wrap them around your wrist, then wrap the long end around the bar in a loop. They’re adjustable and fit most lifting styles.
Best For: General workouts, beginners, and general lifters.
2. Figure 8 Straps
Specifically designed for heavy lifting, these wrap around your wrist and the bar in a safe loop. They provide maximum grip with minimal release room.
Best For: Deadlifts, powerlifting, and strongman training.
3. Hook Straps
Hook straps have metal hooks that remove most of the pressure on your hands during grip. Although convenient, they can be restrictive in bar feel and control.
Best For: Individuals suffering from grip injuries or issues.
What to Seek in High-Quality Lift Straps
When determining what are the top lift straps for use in gym workouts, you must look beyond popularity. Here’s what to look for:
Material Quality
Opt for cotton, nylon, or leather straps. Cotton is soft and easy to break in. Nylon is more durable but stiffer. Leather is long-lasting and cool-looking but takes a while to soften.
Padding
Some straps have neoprene padding over the wrist area, which prevents chafing during heavy lifting.
Length and Width
Longer straps (approximately 21-24 inches) give more wraps around the bar, allowing for a firmer grip. Wider straps give more surface area but can be more difficult to wrap tightly.
Stitching and Durability
Heavy-duty stitching is essential. Poor seams will break under tension, something you don’t want in the middle of a lift.
Top Choices: What Are the Best Lifting Straps for Gymming?
Now, onto the good stuff—the actual straps gym rats rave about. These selections offer performance, comfort, and longevity.
1. Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps
✅ Comfort and control
These are a tried-and-true option for anyone looking for trusty support with some wrist comfort.
- Durable cotton construction
- Neoprene wrist padding
- Perfect for deadlifts, rows, and pull-downs
- Easy to put on and take off
2. IronMind Strong-Enough Lifting Straps
✅ For serious lifters only
If you’re hitting heavy numbers, these nylon straps are trusted by strongmen and competitive powerlifters.
- Extra tough nylon for maximum durability
- Simple design, built for performance
- No padding – just raw strength
- Great for max effort deadlifts and shrugs
3. Gymreapers Lifting Straps
✅ Built for training longevity
These straps offer both strength and fashion, providing long-term support for multiple lifts.
- Heavy-duty cotton blend
- Reinforced stitching and added length
- Neoprene wrist padding for comfort
- Good for all levels of lifting
How to Use Lift Straps (Without Losing It)
It makes all the difference knowing how to use them. Here’s a brief rundown for lasso-style straps:
- Insert your hand through the loop and have the strap lie flat against your wrist.
2. Wrap the extended end around the bar—under and then over—2–3 times.
3. Secure by twisting the bar or tugging on the loose end.
4. Hold over the strap and lift!
Practice 2–3 times before applying them in a high-pressure set. You want them to feel comfortable and secure—not too tight or loose.
When Should You Use Lift Straps?
Straps are not a crutch, but a tool. Apply them wisely to augment—not replace—your grip strength. A good rule of thumb is:
- Don’t use them for warm-up sets
- Use them for heaviest working sets or last back-off sets
- Don’t use them on pull-ups or farmer’s carries if building grip is your intention
Who Should Use Lift Straps?
If you:
- Lift heavy for strength or hypertrophy
- Do high-rep sets where muscles fail before grip
- Want to cut down on forearm fatigue on rows or shrugs
- Are bouncing back from a wrist injury or strain
.then lift straps are a lifesaver.
Are Lift Straps Worth It?
Yes. They’re an inexpensive investment (typically less than $20), but they open up more volume, more weight, and more gains—particularly for back and leg days.
When deciding what are the best lift straps for gym use, you’re not just buying fabric. You’re buying the ability to train harder, recover better, and stay safer during demanding lifts.
Conclusion
Lift straps aren’t for bodybuilders and elite lifters alone—they’re for anyone who’s serious about making progress. Whatever your goal is—a next deadlift milestone or simply to give your grip a rest after consecutive pulling sets—the ideal straps make all the difference.
So, what are the best lift straps for gym training? It depends on your style, your lifts, and your comfort level. Harbinger offers comfort and quality. IronMind delivers raw strength. Gymreapers brings balance and durability. Choose what fits your training vibe and get ready to lift like never before.
Straps might not be flashy, but when your PRs keep climbing, you’ll be glad they’re part of your toolkit.
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