Lifting Straps for Deadlifts & Pulls

How to choose lifting straps

Lifting straps do one job: they connect your hands to the bar so your grip isn't the first thing to fail on a pull. The strap loops around your wrist, the tail wraps around the bar, and once you twist it tight, part of the load is held through the strap instead of only your fingers. That lets your back, hips and legs finish the set.

Lasso vs figure-8 vs closed-loop lifting straps

There are three common styles of lifting straps:

• Lasso (loop) straps: one end is sewn into a loop for your wrist, and the tail wraps around the bar as many times as you like. They're quick to unwind when the set is done, which is why they're the most popular all-around style for deadlifts, RDLs, rows, shrugs and pulldowns.
• Figure-8 straps: a single piece shaped like an 8 that goes around both wrist and bar. They hold you to the bar very firmly, but they're slower to get out of, so they're mostly used for heavy deadlifts and strongman-style pulls.
• Closed-loop (Olympic) straps: a simple loop that passes around the bar once. They hold less firmly than lasso straps but let go fast, so Olympic lifters use them on snatches and cleans.

Bay Gear Co. lifting wrist straps are padded lasso straps: 24 inches long and $19.99 a pair. For a full comparison, read Figure 8 Straps vs Loop Lifting Straps.

Padding and material

A heavy pull puts a lot of tension on the strap where it wraps your wrist. Our straps use durable cotton for the strap and neoprene padding at the wrist, so the loop is more comfortable on heavy or high-rep sets.

How to put on lifting straps

Slide your hand through the loop so the tail runs from the pinky side of your wrist across your palm. Snug the padded loop on your wrist, wrap the tail under and around the bar toward you, then twist your hand to take up the slack and grip the bar over the strap. To release, loosen your grip and unwind the tail. Every product page has a short how-to video.

Pick a print you'll actually wear

Plain black straps work fine, but we think gym gear should have some personality. Our prints, like Tactical Hawaiian, Caution and Wild West Donuts, are $19.99, the same as our Black, Sand and Coyote Brown straps, so you can choose on looks alone. Some designs sell out from time to time, so check back if your favorite isn't available.

Which lifts to use them on

Use lifting straps on pulling lifts: heavy deadlifts and rack pulls, Romanian deadlifts, barbell, dumbbell and cable rows, shrugs, and high-rep lat pulldowns or pull-ups. Back-day tips are in Lifting Straps for Pull-Ups, Lat Pulldowns and Rows. Don't use straps on presses like bench or overhead press, where you need to be able to let go of the bar. For presses, you want wrist wraps.

Keep your grip working

Straps work best as a tool, not a crutch. Many lifters do warm-ups and lighter sets without straps, then strap up for their heaviest or highest-rep sets. Pair them with liquid chalk for strap-free sets. More ideas: How to Improve Grip Strength for Deadlifts.

Straps and wraps together

Train heavy presses and heavy pulls? The Wrist Wraps + Lifting Straps Bundle puts a pair of each in one order. See how to use both in one workout in Lifting Straps and Wrist Wraps.

Lifting straps FAQ

How much are Bay Gear Co. lifting straps?

Our padded lifting straps are $19.99 a pair. Check each product page for current pricing and availability.

Are these lasso straps or figure-8 straps?

They're lasso (loop) straps. The tail wraps around the bar and unwinds easily when you finish the set.

What are the straps made of?

Durable cotton, with neoprene padding where the strap sits on your wrist. Each strap is 24 inches long.

Can I use lifting straps for bench press?

No. Straps are for pulling lifts. For bench and other presses, use our wrist wraps instead.

What are your shipping and return terms?

Bay Gear Co. is veteran-owned, founded by Marine Brian Young, and we offer free shipping on orders over $49 and a 30-day return policy.