The best lifting straps are those that suit your exercises, your level, and your preferred method of attaching yourself to the weight. Some want a quick and flexible solution for general back training, while others prioritize maximum grip during heavy deadlifts.
In this guide, we compare short lifting straps, long straps, and figure-8 straps. We also provide our specific recommendations on which type is best suited for different forms of strength training.
Note: MakeIt manufactures and sells StrapIt and long lifting straps itself. Therefore, the guide compares product types and their uses rather than claiming to be an independent laboratory test.
In short: Which lifting straps should you choose?
| Type | Best for | Main advantage | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short lifting straps | Rows, pulldowns, RDL and general strength training | Quick and easy to use | Fewer wraps around the bar |
| Long lifting straps | Heavy deadlifts, shrugs and rack pulls | More wraps and very firm grip | Takes longer to attach |
| Figure-8-straps | Strongman and very heavy deadlifts | Very tight connection to the bar | Bar cannot be released as quickly |
| Grip pads and closed grips | Machines and high-volume back training | Usually requires no wrapping | Fit and contact may vary |
What are lifting straps?
Lifting straps are lifting aids that create a stronger connection between your hands and a barbell, dumbbell, or training handle. They are primarily used during pulling exercises where the fingers and forearms risk tiring before the back or legs.
Straps do not take over all the work from your hands. You still need to actively grip the weight, but the strap helps maintain the connection when your grip is challenged.
Who can benefit from lifting straps?
Lifting straps can be relevant if you:
- lose grip during deadlifts, rows, or pulldowns
- experience your forearms tiring before your back
- perform many heavy pulling exercises in the same training session
- want to use a double overhand grip during deadlifts
- want to focus more on the movement and the working muscle
You don't necessarily need to use straps for all sets. Many complete warm-ups and lighter work sets without straps and only use them when grip becomes the limiting factor.
Also read our guide on when and how to use straps.
The best types of lifting straps in 2026
1. StrapIt – best for most types of strength training
StrapIt is a good choice for those who want a short and user-friendly lifting strap for daily training. The compact design requires fewer wraps around the bar than traditional long straps and makes them quick to use when switching between exercises.
They can be used for, among other things:
- barbell rows and dumbbell rows
- lat pulldowns and seated cable rows
- Romanian deadlifts
- shrugs
- regular deadlifts
- other pulling exercises with a bar or handle
StrapIt is produced in Denmark from organic leather, cotton webbing, and strong sewing thread. The model is available in Short and Standard sizes, so the length can be adjusted to the size of your hand.
Best for: Beginners, recreational lifters, and experienced lifters who want a quick and versatile solution.
2. StrapIt Premium – best for extra comfort
StrapIt Premium is based on the same short and user-friendly construction as the regular StrapIt. The Premium model is made from a thicker and softer material and is therefore designed for lifters who prioritize extra comfort around their hands and wrists.
Premium is particularly relevant if you:
- train frequently with straps
- experience irritation from firmer materials
- want softer contact against the skin
- prefer extra comfort during high-volume training
The choice between Standard and Premium therefore primarily concerns material feel and comfort – not a specific weight limit. You don't need to lift over 150 kg to choose Premium.
Best for: Frequent use, high training volume, and lifters who want a thicker and softer material.
3. Long lifting straps – best for maximum grip
Traditional long lifting straps can be wrapped multiple times around the bar. This provides a very firm connection and makes them particularly suitable for heavy pulling exercises.
The extra length can be an advantage for:
- heavy deadlifts
- rack pulls
- barbell shrugs
- heavy rows
- training with thick bars or handles
On the other hand, they take a little longer to wrap correctly. They are therefore less quick for exercises where you often switch between machines or handles.
Best for: Lifters who prioritize more wraps and a very firm grip around the bar.
4. Figure-8-straps – best for specialized deadlifts
Figure-8-straps form two closed loops around the wrist and the bar. They create a very tight connection and are primarily used in strongman and specialized deadlift training.
The closed construction also means you cannot release the bar as quickly as with regular open straps. They are therefore less versatile and usually not the best first choice for general fitness and back training.
Best for: Strongman and experienced lifters with a specific need during very heavy deadlifts.
5. Grip pads and closed grips – best for quick changes
Grip pads and various closed grips are placed between the hand and the bar without traditional wraps. They can be practical for machine exercises and training sessions where you often switch between different handles.
How well they work largely depends on the fit, material, and hand size. Some prefer the quick operation, while others experience better control with regular lifting straps.
Best for: Machines, pulldowns, and high-volume back training.
How we evaluated the different types
The evaluation is based on the characteristics that are most important during general strength training:
- Grip: How securely the product connects the hand to the weight.
- Usability: How quickly it can be attached and released.
- Comfort: How the material feels around the hand and wrist.
- Versatility: How many different exercises the product is suitable for.
- Fit: Whether the product can be adapted to different hand sizes.
- Durability: The suitability of materials and stitching for repeated use.
There is no single type that excels in all aspects. Short straps, for example, are quicker to use, while long straps allow for more wraps.
StrapIt or long straps – what should you choose?
Choose StrapIt if you want:
- quick attachment
- fewer wraps around the bar
- a versatile solution for multiple pulling exercises
- the option to choose Short or Standard
Choose long straps if you want:
- more wraps around the bar
- a very firm grip during heavy lifts
- a classic strap construction
- primary use for deadlifts, shrugs, and rows
Neither solution is universally best for everyone. It depends on your exercises and your preference for speed versus more wraps.
When should you not use lifting straps?
Straps are not necessary for all exercises or all sets. Consider training without them when:
- your primary goal is to develop grip strength
- you are performing light warm-up sets
- grip is not yet limiting the exercise
- you are practicing a competition technique where straps are not allowed
- you cannot attach or release them safely yet
A practical approach is to train without straps until grip becomes the limiting factor, and then use them during the most demanding work sets.
How to choose the right size
StrapIt and StrapIt Premium are available in Short and Standard sizes. The choice is based on hand length:
- Short: For a hand length under 16 cm.
- Standard: For a hand length over 16 cm.
Always follow the current size guide on the product page. Correct sizing makes it easier to position the strap around the bar and achieve a controlled grip.
Frequently asked questions
Which lifting straps are best for beginners?
Short and user-friendly straps are a good starting point because they require fewer wraps and are easy to learn. Always start with a light weight until you can attach them correctly.
Which straps are best for deadlifts?
Short straps work for general deadlift training, while long straps allow for more wraps around the bar. Figure-8-straps are a more specialized solution for strongman, among other things.
Do lifting straps weaken grip?
Not automatically. However, grip receives less direct load in the sets where straps assist you. Train warm-ups or lighter sets without straps if you also want to improve grip strength.
What is the difference between lifting straps and wrist wraps?
Lifting straps help you hold onto the weight during pulling exercises. Wrist wraps support the wrist during bench press and other pressing exercises. The products therefore have different functions.
How long do lifting straps last?
The lifespan depends on materials, training volume, load, and maintenance. Regularly check stitching and material, and replace your straps if they show obvious damage.
Conclusion: Which lifting straps are best?
StrapIt is our recommendation for most people who want a short and versatile lifting strap for daily strength training. Choose Premium if extra comfort and a softer material are most important to you.
Long straps are the strongest choice for lifters who want more wraps around the bar, while figure-8-straps are primarily relevant for specialized deadlifts and strongman.
The best choice therefore depends on how you train:
- Versatile and quick solution: StrapIt.
- Extra comfort: StrapIt Premium.
- More wraps and very firm grip: Long straps.
- Specialized strongman and deadlift: Figure-8-straps.
