Buzz
For anyone committed to deadlifts or pulling exercises, lifting straps are a crucial addition to your gym gear. (And let’s be clear—using straps isn’t cheating as long as they’re used correctly.) With various styles available, it’s vital to pick straps that suit your specific lifting routine.
I currently own four types of straps (an increase from three when I first published this article in 2021), and each serves a unique purpose—except for the lasso straps, which I rarely use these days. While they’re versatile, other strap types are better suited for specialized tasks, as we’ll explore.
What’s the purpose of lifting straps?
All lifting straps serve the same purpose: they secure around your wrists and the barbell, enabling you to lift heavier weights without straining your grip. Often referred to as deadlift straps due to their effectiveness in deadlifts, or weightlifting straps for their use in the sport of weightlifting, they are a versatile tool for strength training.
Key point: these are known as lifting straps, not wrist wraps. Wrist wraps are entirely different. It’s also best to steer clear of calling them “wrist straps”, even though they do wrap around your wrists, to prevent any misunderstandings.
Lasso straps are the ideal choice if you’re unsure which type to purchase
Lasso-style straps are the most affordable and straightforward option, often the first type you’ll encounter at a sporting goods store when asking for straps. Here’s a common example, and it’s easy to see why they’re named lasso style. They feature a loop, and you thread the other end of the strap through it.
Slide your wrist through the larger loop you’ve formed, then wind the long tail around the bar. Crucially, ensure the loose end of the strap goes under the bar and wraps toward your fingers. This ensures they complement your grip rather than merely replicating it.
Advantages of lasso straps: They are inexpensive, compatible with bars of any thickness, and provide sufficient grip for most gym exercises that people commonly perform.
Drawbacks of lasso straps: They require a few seconds to set up before each lift and to remove afterward. Additionally, they may not be suitable for exceptionally heavy lifts, in which case, figure 8 straps are a better option.
A few lasso strap options to explore
Figure 8 straps are ideal for handling extremely heavy weights
For strongman competitors, figure 8 straps are a must-have. These straps are shaped like the number eight, with one loop for your wrist and the other for securing the bar. After threading your wrist through both loops and positioning your thumb, your fingers can essentially relax. (Cerberus, the brand I use, includes a demonstration video on their product page featuring powerlifter and strongman Benedikt Magnússon, showing proper usage.)
You’ll realize figure 8 straps are necessary if your lasso straps begin to unravel during heavy lifts. This occurred to me when my deadlift max was around 250 pounds, and I attempted high rack pulls with 315 pounds. My lasso straps failed to hold up. After switching to figure 8 straps, I managed to pull an impressive 395 pounds in a competition. (This was during an 18" strongman deadlift; while powerlifting competitions prohibit straps, strongman events often allow them.)
Advantages of figure 8 straps: The bar cannot slip or roll out of the straps, ensuring a secure grip.
Disadvantages of figure 8 straps: They must be sized to fit your wrists and are designed for standard barbells. If you plan to use them on thicker bars like an axle, you’ll need a larger pair. (For strongman competitions with diverse lifting implements, consider the extra-long lasso straps mentioned earlier.)
A few figure 8 strap options to consider
These Cerberus figure 8's are the ones I own. Be sure to measure carefully to select the correct size.
Cerberus also offers “extreme” figure 8's, which are incredibly durable and capable of handling extreme weights.
Versa Gripps (and similar products like Cobra Grips) are ideal for fast and easy strapping
I purchased a pair of Versa Gripps while preparing for a lift that required ring handles. Wrapping lasso straps around the rings was frustrating, and figure 8 straps didn’t fit properly either.
Versa Gripps, however, were the perfect solution. These straps feature a velcro wristband and a short leather-like strap that dangles down. You just position the bar between your hand and the grippy strap, then secure it by curling your fingers underneath. They’re quick to put on, and releasing them is as simple as letting go.
Advantages of wristband straps: They’re fast to secure and release, and they provide a reliable grip.
Disadvantages of wristband straps: Premium brands can be pricey. Additionally, the material flap over your wrist can make using your phone or writing with a pen inconvenient.
A few wristband strap options to explore
Teardrop straps are ideal for quick-release functionality
Another popular type is Olympic weightlifting straps, often referred to as teardrop straps. These are shorter than lasso straps and consist of a single piece of webbing stitched at one end. (Some traditional versions don’t even include stitching.) You slide your wrist through the loop and wrap the remaining strap around the bar, similar to lasso straps.
The key benefit is their quick-release feature. Olympic weightlifters, who frequently drop barbells and sometimes must do so abruptly, use them for deadlifts, pulls, and occasionally snatches. (However, they are not recommended for cleans, as there’s a risk of being unable to release them in certain positions.)
If you’re into Olympic weightlifting, these are the straps to choose. For strongman training or if you prioritize maximum grip security, figure 8 straps are the better option. And if all this seems overwhelming, a pair of lasso-style straps will serve you well.
Advantages of teardrop straps: They allow for rapid release, are affordable, and are slightly simpler to set up compared to lasso straps.
Disadvantages of teardrop straps: They don’t offer the same level of security as figure 8 straps, nor are they as quick to set up as wristband straps.
