Lift More, Grip Better: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Lifting Straps
If you’re serious about weightlifting, CrossFit, or bodybuilding, lifting straps are a game-changer. They support your grip, help you break through plateaus, and allow you to focus on proper form without worrying about grip fatigue. At NC Fitness Gear, we’re proud to offer an extensive selection of lifting straps, grips, and more—perfect for lifters of all levels.
Why Use Lifting Straps?
Enhanced Grip Strength
Lifting straps reduce grip limitations, letting you continue training your target muscle groups with heavier loads. Stop cutting sets short because of slippery palms and start maximising each rep.
Better Muscle Engagement
By taking the strain off your hands, lifting straps let you direct more energy to the intended muscle group. You’ll feel more focused engagement where it counts—especially during pulling exercises like deadlifts, rows, and lat pulldowns.
Reduced Risk of Injury
A secure grip means fewer accidents. When you’re lifting big, straps can provide the extra security you need to stay injury-free.
Break Through Plateaus
Struggling to increase your deadlift or row? When grip is often the first thing to give out, lifting straps can be a key tool in pushing beyond your limits.
Types of Lifting Straps
1. Lasso Lifting Straps
Often referred to simply as “wrist straps,” lasso straps are the most common type. Made from durable materials such as cotton, nylon, or leather, they wrap around your wrist and the bar for added support. Ideal for heavy lifts like deadlifts and rows, they improve grip control and reduce hand fatigue.
2. Figure 8 Lifting Straps
Shaped like the number eight, these straps loop around your wrist and under the bar for an ultra-secure hold—perfect for heavy deadlifts and shrugs. Because they lock you in tightly, they’re less suitable for exercises that require quick releases or fast transitions.
3. Lifting Grips
A versatile option offering both wrist support and palm protection. Lifting grips feature durable material (often rubber or leather) that can lie flat against your palm or wrap around the bar like a hook. These are popular among CrossFit athletes for high-intensity workouts and are gaining fans in bodybuilding and powerlifting circles.
4. Olympic Lifting Straps
Designed for Olympic-style lifts like the clean, jerk, and snatch, these “closed-loop” or teardrop-shaped straps offer slightly less grip support but let you release the bar quickly—important for safety during dynamic lifts.
What to Look For
Figure 8 Straps
Seek out heavy-duty cotton with reinforced stitching for exceptional durability. Figure 8 straps are often favored by powerlifters tackling big deadlifts and shrugs.
Lifting Grips
Look for a sturdy grip pad (rubber or leather) and strong nylon wrist support. Double-stitching and high-quality materials help ensure the grips maintain their shape over time.
Olympic Lifting Straps
Opt for straps made with high-quality cotton and reinforced stitching. A teardrop-shaped design allows a quick, easy release while still offering sufficient grip assistance.
Why Invest in Lifting Straps at NC Fitness Gear?
We understand the demands of serious lifters. Our premium straps and grips are engineered for:
- Safety & Stability: Minimize slip and reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
- Comfort: Many styles feature neoprene padding around the wrist, helping you train longer without irritation.
- Versatility: Whether you’re a competitive powerlifter, CrossFit athlete, or casual gym-goer, we have a strap or grip option suited to your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are weightlifting straps used for?
They provide a more secure grip on the barbell during exercises like deadlifts, shrugs, and rows—especially when grip strength becomes a limiting factor.
Should I use lifting straps?
If you want to boost grip stability for heavier sets or specific pulling exercises, lifting straps can be highly beneficial.
When should I use lifting straps?
Use them for heavy, grip-intensive lifts such as deadlifts, rows, lat pulldowns, and pull-ups—particularly once your grip starts to fail in higher load ranges.
When shouldn’t I rely on lifting straps?
They’re not a substitute for developing strong forearms and grip strength. Use them selectively for max-effort lifts rather than every single set.
How do I secure lasso lifting straps?
Create a loop by sliding one end through the other, then slip it over your wrist and pull tight. For detailed visuals, watch a quick demonstration video or refer to step-by-step guides.
How do Figure 8 straps work?
Place one loop around your wrist, thread the second loop under the bar, and bring it back around your wrist. They’re excellent for heavy deadlifts but less suitable for dynamic lifts.
Why choose lifting grips over traditional straps?
Lifting grips can be faster to set up and often offer extra wrist support and palm protection. They’re ideal for workouts with rapid changes or multiple movements.
How do Olympic lifting straps work?
Similar to lasso straps, you loop them around your wrists and the barbell. They’re designed for Olympic lifts that require both grip assistance and the ability to release the bar quickly.
Take Your Training Further
At NC Fitness Gear, we carry a wide range of lifting straps and grips engineered to help you lift heavier, stay safer, and push past personal records. Whether you’re aiming for a new deadlift PR, building bigger back muscles, or simply want to protect your wrists, you’ll find the perfect solution here.
Shop our selection now and discover how the right lifting straps can elevate your performance—rep after rep. When your grip is no longer the weak link, there’s no telling how far you can go. Let’s hit those goals together!
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