When you're about to buy your first - or next - pair of lifting straps, you quickly face the choice between short and long. What's the difference, really, and what suits your training best?
Here's the full breakdown.
What is the difference between short and long lifting straps?
The most obvious difference is the length - but it affects a lot more than you might think.
Long lifting straps can be wrapped multiple times around the bar. This provides an extra secure grip, which is particularly valuable during very heavy lifts like deadlifts and rack pulls. The downside is that they take a little longer to put on and take off.
Short lifting straps wrap once around the bar and lock quickly. They are faster to put on and take off, making them ideal for exercises where you switch quickly - such as at the cable station or during supersets.
When should you choose long lifting straps?
Long straps are the best choice for:
Deadlifts - here you typically lift maximally and want the most secure grip possible. The extra wraps give you that security.
Rack pulls and Romanian deadlifts - heavy pulls that require a stable and secure grip over a long period.
Barbell rows - exercises with a heavy bar where you want to focus entirely on the back muscles.
Shrugs - upper traps work hardest with a secure grip without distraction.
When should you choose short lifting straps?
Short straps are the best choice for:
Lat pulldown and cable pulls - you switch quickly between exercises and don't want to spend time wrapping long straps.
Bicep curls with cable - isolation exercise where you want quick and simple setup.
Supersets and circuit training - when you switch quickly between exercises, short straps are a clear advantage.
The cable machine in general - our StrapIt Short is designed precisely for this and is particularly popular for all cable exercises.
Can you use long straps for cable exercises and vice versa?
Yes - both types technically work for all exercises. But you will quickly notice the difference in practice. Long straps for the cable machine are cumbersome to change. Short straps for heavy deadlifts can feel less secure.
The best solution for many is to have both - and use the right pair for the right exercise.
What about StrapIt Standard?
Our StrapIt Standard is a medium-length strap that works well for most exercises. It's the natural starting point if you only want one pair - and it's used by thousands of lifters in Denmark for everything from deadlifts to lat pulldowns.
Which type should you start with?
If you primarily train compound exercises like deadlifts, rows, and shrugs - start with standard or long straps.
If you primarily train the cable machine and isolation exercises - start with short straps.
If you train a wide combination - consider starting with standard and adding short straps for the cable station over time.
See our entire StrapIt range and find the pair that suits your training.
Free shipping over 649 kr. 100-day return policy. Produced in Denmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are short or long lifting straps better?
It depends on your training. Long straps are best for heavy compound exercises. Short straps are best for cable training and isolation exercises.
What is StrapIt Short?
StrapIt Short is our short lifting strap - designed for the cable machine and exercises where you switch quickly. Quick to put on and take off, and produced in Denmark.
Can I use short straps for deadlifts?
Yes - but many prefer standard or long straps for deadlifts because the extra wraps provide a more secure grip during very heavy lifts.
What is the best length for beginners?
Start with a standard pair - it's the most versatile solution and suits most exercises.
