Which lifting belt should I choose?

The choice of lifting belt depends on the type of training you do and your personal preferences. Learn how to choose a lifting belt (or weightlifting belt as it is often called) that suits you and your training.

Eleiko belts have been designed and constructed with a focus on powerlifting (deadlift, squat, and bench press) and weightlifting (snatch and clean & jerk) sports. The belts specifically designed for weightlifting are the Weightlifting Leather Belt and the Hybrid Lifting Belt. The former is made of leather and is slightly stiffer, while the latter is made of synthetic material, which provides more flexibility. Choose the leather belt if you primarily engage in weightlifting or prefer a slightly stiffer belt. Eleiko Hybrid Belt is a good choice for weightlifting, functional fitness, or CrossFit. The belt is lightweight, flexible, and easy to put on and take off. Both of our weightlifting belts are suitable for general strength training.

Leather patinates over time, while synthetic material is easier to clean. The width of our weightlifting belts differs slightly, with 100 mm (Weightlifting Leather Belt) and 95 mm (Hybrid Lifting Belt). A narrower and thinner belt will be more flexible, and the synthetic material (EVA) is more flexible compared to leather. Consequently, it may generally be more suitable for smaller athletes. However, it also depends on personal preference and body structure. A belt that is too wide may dig into the ribs and become uncomfortable.

If you primarily engage in powerlifting (deadlift, squat, and bench press), Eleiko Powerlifting Belt is a good choice. It is 10 mm wide and the thickness is 13 mm (+/- 1mm), making it a very stable and rigid belt. Despite its thickness and increased width, it is relatively smooth compared to many other powerlifting leather belts, thanks to the quality of the leather and its slightly tapered front. The stainless steel buckle is secure and allows for easy fastening. Eleiko Powerlifting Belt is also suitable for exercises that are not as mobility-demanding as weightlifting, such as overhead press and barbell row.

Eleiko's leather belts are manufactured in Sweden using high-quality leather that becomes more supple and molds slightly to your body over time. The synthetic belts are made of durable EVA material, which is also flexible. The Velcro material and stainless steel buckles are designed and manufactured to withstand many years of demanding use.

Eleiko's weightlifting belts comply with the requirements of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) for competition use. Our powerlifting belts are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). While this might not matter as much if you're training purely for recreation, it guarantees quality and adaptation to the respective sports.

With over 60 years of experience in manufacturing strength equipment for the most demanding athletes and customers worldwide, Eleiko collaborates with leading athletes to develop strength equipment that creates what many of our customers describe as "the ultimate lifting experience."

If you want to learn more about the benefits of lifting belts and how to use one, read more in depth in our guide on lifting belts.