If you’ve been in the gym long enough, you’ve probably used a belt. A weightlifting belt supports your spine and torso, reduces the risk of injury, and improves performance. With so many weight belt options, we often get asked, “How to Select a Weightlifting Belt?”

Choosing Your Material

The first step in how to select a weightlifting belt is material. Weight belts are classified into three types of materials: leather, velcro, and suede. Which material you choose is a matter of personal preference and lifting style.

Leather Weight Belts

Leather is king when it comes to weightlifting belts. Nothing is superior in quality, style, and durability. Our Men’s 310DL and Women’s 310DL are extremely versatile and are perfect for those beginners, fitness enthusiasts, or avid bodybuilders, while our Men’s 410DL and 450R are great for those looking for more support or serious about powerlifting. These belts are made of either single or double-ply black garment leather inside and out, two-pronged (2 1/2 times stronger than single-prong weight belts), and meet all requirements of all powerlifting federations and strongman contests.

Velcro Weight Belts

Velcro belts, which are made of synthetic material, provide less abdominal pressure than a leather weight belt. While adequate for beginners, recreational lifting and less expensive than a leather weight belt, they are not as durable, bear a minimal amount of force, and are not recommended for high-performance lifting. For those not yet ready to make a commitment to a leather weight belt, our Cross Trainer is the best velcro weightlifting belt on the market, made of 4″ heavy-duty gray nylon web with 2″ black nylon web and self-gripping velcro fastener with 2″ metal buckle frame. 

Suede Weight Belts

Suede is made from the underside of the animal skin and is softer and more comfortable than leather, but it is not as durable. While we have previously offered suede weightlifting belts and have had decades of testing, we have concluded that they are vastly inferior to leather weight belts and have discontinued use.

The Perfect Weight Belt Fit

Unless you are lucky enough to live near one of our showrooms, measuring your waist circumference at the navel is the only way to determine what size belt you need to buy. Ensure that you are relaxed and that the tape measure you use is level around your torso. Don’t suck it in! We need the relaxed measurement. And don’t lie about your measurement! We’re not judging. Do not call it 32 inches if it is truly 34 inches, okay?

You should also consider what width you’d like your weight belt. For example, our 4″ wide weight belts (Men’s 410DL, 450R, and Men’s 475DLB) might be too thick for those with a smaller torso and the Men’s 310DL and Women’s 310DL would be a better fit.

Conclusion

Weightlifting belts not only protect your spine and torso but enhance your performance. Cardillo offers many weightlifting belts for women and men. Make sure the belt you buy is the right purpose and size for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.