Buzz
Does it feel like your grip is failing during gym sessions? Are your wrists causing you discomfort? Before you purchase 'wrist straps' to address these issues, let me clarify. What you likely need are wrist wraps or lifting straps, as these serve entirely different purposes and functions.
What exactly are wrist wraps?
Wrist wraps, commonly used in fitness settings, are bands made of cloth, elastic, or similar materials designed to be wrapped around your wrists. Typically, they feature a fabric elastic wrap with a small thumb loop at one end; here’s an example. You insert your thumb into the loop, tightly wrap the elastic around your wrist, and secure it with a velcro tab. Once in place, you can remove your thumb from the loop, as its sole purpose is to assist in applying the wrap.
Other variations of wrist wraps also exist. The traditional style was a simple cloth bandage, secured by tucking the loose end. My preferred type is a slight twist on this: a cloth strip with a shoelace-like string at the end. I hold the wrap in position with a finger, wind it around, and then loop the string around before tucking it securely. Here’s an example of that style.
The function of wrist wraps
Wrist wraps are designed to stabilize your wrists during pushing exercises, such as bench presses or overhead presses. The tighter they are, the more support they offer, which is why athletes in sports like strongman often use thick, rigid wrist wraps and fasten them extremely tightly. If you're a casual gym enthusiast experiencing mild wrist discomfort during heavy presses or needing extra wrist stability, basic elastic wrist wraps might be worth trying.
What exactly are lifting straps?
Now, let’s step away from the bench press and focus on deadlifts! Lifting straps (commonly referred to as “lifting straps” and rarely as “wrist straps”) are durable straps made from strong materials (similar to those used in dog leashes or yoga straps) that link your hands to the barbell you’re lifting.
There are multiple strap varieties (I’ve detailed the advantages and disadvantages of each here):
The simplest form is the lasso strap; you thread the end through the loop, slide your hand into the resulting larger loop, and wind the loose end around the bar.
Olympic weightlifters often favor a teardrop-shaped version; you slide your wrist through it and then wrap it around the bar. Its shorter length allows the straps to release instantly if you drop the bar.
For an extremely secure grip, opt for figure 8 straps. You insert your hand through one loop, pass the crossed section under the bar, and then slide your hand through the other loop. With your thumb wrapped around the bar as usual, you’re firmly locked in place.
The role of lifting straps
Lifting straps are designed to assist you in gripping the bar during pulling exercises, such as deadlifts or rows. As previously mentioned, straps are a valuable tool for training your body, especially when your grip is weak or fatigued from extensive grip-intensive work.
“Wrist straps” don’t actually exist as a distinct category
So, what exactly are “wrist straps”? In my view, they don’t exist. You’re likely referring to either wrist wraps or lifting straps. Decide which one suits your needs (as explained earlier) and shop accordingly.
Why am I discussing something I believe doesn’t exist? Many people confuse wrist wraps and lifting straps, blending them into one concept. This confusion isn’t limited to beginners unfamiliar with gym terminology; even companies like Gymshark sell “wrist straps” that are actually wrist wraps (the kind with velcro and thumb loops, as mentioned earlier). Additionally, GQ has an article that’s been online for seven years, discussing lifting straps but featuring an image of wrist wraps and using the term “wrist straps” in the headline.
Searching for “wrist straps” on popular online marketplaces will show a mix of wraps and straps. Opt for straps if your grip falters during pulling exercises like rows or deadlifts, and choose wraps if you need extra stability for presses or other pushing movements. Products like the Cobra grip can serve both purposes, but they’re not called “wrist straps”—they’re correctly referred to as grips.
