CrossFit Accessories: Gear Worth Bringing to the Box

CrossFit throws every kind of movement at you: barbells, gymnastics, kettlebells, running, rowing and carries. No single piece of gear covers all of it, but a few accessories make a real difference in comfort and performance. This guide covers the CrossFit accessories worth bringing to the box, what each one does and when to use it.

1. Wrist Wraps

Wrist wraps are one of the most common CrossFit accessories. They help on push presses, thrusters, front squats, overhead squats, handstand push-ups and cleans. The Bay Gear Co. wrist wraps are 18" long, made with a polyester cotton blend, a thumb loop and a hook-and-loop closure, priced at $28.99. Read wrist wraps for CrossFit and wrist wraps for handstands. Bright prints like Caution and Outerspace are in the wrist wraps collection.

2. Knee Sleeves

Wall balls, thrusters, box jumps, pistols and heavy squats all involve a lot of knee bending. Knee sleeves keep the joint warm and give a snug feel. The Bay Gear Co. knee sleeves are 7mm thick with a 9.5" length, $59.99. Read knee sleeves for CrossFit.

3. A Quick Locking Belt

CrossFit athletes need a belt they can tighten for a heavy clean and loosen for burpees. The Bay Gear Co. quick locking belt is $34.99 and adjusts in a second. Read quick locking belt for CrossFit and self-locking lifting belt.

4. Liquid Chalk

Pull-ups, toes-to-bar, kettlebell swings, deadlifts and rope climbs all need a dry grip. Liquid chalk lasts longer and makes less mess than loose chalk. Try Bay Gear Co. liquid chalk. (Liquid chalk is not returnable.) Read liquid chalk for CrossFit and liquid chalk for kettlebells.

5. Elbow Sleeves

For high-volume pressing and gymnastics, elbow sleeves in 7mm neoprene keep elbows warm. They cost $49.99 a pair. Read elbow sleeves for CrossFit.

6. Lifting Straps

On heavy deadlift workouts and strength days, straps keep grip from limiting you. The Bay Gear Co. lifting straps are 24" long and $19.99. Read lifting straps for CrossFit.

7. Ankle Straps

For accessory glute and hamstring work after class, ankle straps at $9.99 are handy. See ankle strap exercises.

Other CrossFit Gear Many Athletes Own

• Jump rope for double-unders.
• Hand grips for high-volume pull-up and toes-to-bar days.
• Weightlifting or training shoes.
• Knee-high socks for rope climbs.
• A water bottle and towel.

Matching Gear to the Workout

• Barbell cycling (thrusters, cleans, push presses): wrist wraps, knee sleeves, belt for heavy loads.
• Gymnastics (pull-ups, HSPU, muscle-ups): chalk, wrist wraps for HSPU, elbow sleeves if you like them.
• Heavy deadlifts: belt, chalk, straps if the workout allows.
• Running and rowing: usually no gear needed.
• Chippers with many movements: keep gear simple so transitions stay fast.

Gear for Benchmark Workouts

• Fran (thrusters and pull-ups): wrist wraps, chalk.
• Grace (clean and jerks): wrist wraps, belt optional.
• Murph: many athletes wear elbow sleeves for the volume. See Murph workout.
• Diane (deadlifts and HSPU): chalk, wrist wraps, straps optional.

Bundles for CrossFit Athletes

The Lock and Load bundle pairs a quick locking belt with other gear. The Caution Lock and Load bundle adds bold color. The wrist wraps and wrist straps bundle covers push and pull. See the bundles collection.

Packing a CrossFit Bag

A simple setup: wraps, sleeves, belt, chalk and straps in a small bag. Keep it organized so you can grab what you need between pieces of the workout. Read gym bag essentials.

Competition Day Considerations

If you are entering a local throwdown or an online qualifier, check the event rules about gear. Most CrossFit events allow wrist wraps, knee sleeves, belts and chalk, but some events have specific standards for movements like handstand push-ups or rope climbs. Train with the same gear you will use at the event so nothing feels new on game day. Label your gear with your name, since many athletes at the same event will have similar-looking wraps and belts. Pack spares of small items like chalk and wraps in case something gets lost or left at a station between heats.

Quick Transitions

In CrossFit, seconds matter. Practice putting on and taking off your belt and wraps during training so it becomes automatic. Leave wraps loosely on your wrists between movements, flip your belt loose instead of removing it and keep chalk within reach of your station.

Do You Need Everything?

No. Start with wrist wraps and chalk, which help in many workouts. Add knee sleeves and a quick locking belt as you start lifting heavier. Add the rest as specific needs come up.

Gifts for CrossFitters

Shopping for someone who does CrossFit? See gifts for CrossFitters and Christmas gifts for lifters.

Care Tips

CrossFit gear gets sweaty and chalky. Wash wraps and sleeves regularly, wipe down your belt and keep chalk capped tightly. Read how to wash knee sleeves and wrist wraps.

Shipping and Returns

The Bay Gear Co. promise for CrossFit Accessories: free shipping on orders over $49 and a 30-day return policy. (Liquid chalk is not returnable.)

FAQ

What accessories do I need for CrossFit?

Wrist wraps, knee sleeves, a quick locking belt and liquid chalk cover most workouts.

What belt is best for CrossFit?

A quick locking belt, because it adjusts instantly between movements.

Are knee sleeves good for CrossFit?

Many athletes wear them for squats, wall balls and thrusters.

Should I use straps in CrossFit?

On heavy deadlifts and strength days, but usually not for cleans.