To master your lifts and ensure your safety in the gym, the best leather weightlifting belts are a must-have. Among the many different types of weightlifting belts available, leather belts stand out for their hard-wearing, support, and timeless look. So, whether you're a seasoned powerlifter or a novice, investing in a high-quality leather weightlifting belt can make a difference in your lifting performance.
The best leather weightlifting belts at a glance:
• Best overall leather weightlifting belt: Beast Gear Weightlifting Belt - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best leather weightlifting belt for hitting your PB: Dark Iron Fitness Weight Lifting Belt - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best budget leather weightlifting belt: Corength Leather Weight Training Belt - Buy now on Decathlon
What is a leather weightlifting belt?
The best leather weightlifting belts are a specialised fitness accessory that has been created to provide support and stability to weightlifters and powerlifters during lifting exercises. Usually, they're made from high-quality leather, such as top-grain or full-grain leather, which is synonymous with durability and strength.
The main reasoning behind the leather weightlifting belt is to help support the lower back and core muscles, helping to maintain the proper posture and minimise the risk of injury while completing heavy lifts, like squats, deadlifts and overhead presses. When in the correct position, the belt can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which helps to stabilise your spine and prevent spinal flexion or over-extension.
Commonly, leather weightlifting belts come in a variety of widths, sometimes between four and six inches. The user tightens the belt to their desired level of comfort using the buckle or lever system. Thus, these belts are indispensable tools for serious weightlifters who want to lift heavy weights safely and efficiently, while not risking any back injuries.
Luckily, we've explored the market to bring you the finest leather weightlifting belts, some of which are crafted in the UK. Prepare to revamp your lifting game with these products that blend style, functionality and durability.
SHOP: The best leather weightlifting belts
Best overall leather weightlifting belt
The Beast Gear Weightlifting Belt is a versatile product designed to cater to various different lifting styles. Made from high-quality nubuck leather, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and comfort. The belt's four inch width provides great support for your lower back during squats, deadlifts and bench presses. The stainless steel buckle and screw-in rivets ensures easy adjustability and security, so you can lift without of the belt moving out of place.
Pros
- Suitable for both men and women
- 10mm thick for back and core stability
- Features a double-prong stainless steel buckle and rivets for back and core stability
Cons
- One reviewer found the sizes came up a little small, but this is easily solved by going up one size
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
| Material | Nubuck leather |
| Closure type | Buckle |
| Width | 4 inches |
- Customer review: "I often wear a weight lifting belt for my heavier lifts, mainly deadlifts, squats and bench press as they are vital for supporting and protecting your lower back and core. I'd had my previous belt for about 2 years before it slowly started to fall apart, so thought it was time to have a look for a replacement and from using Beast Gear in the past I knew how good their products are, so decided to give this a go.
"As soon as you open the packaging you get a feeling that this is a premium product. From the carry string bag which is included to the actual belt itself, its been really well made and I'm sure it'll last all of my tough workouts. I know often with these sorts of things that you have to 'wear it in' so it feels a lot more comfortable, I'm not sure if it's just my body shape (I think I'm a normal body shape haha) but from the first time I put it on, it felt like it was working perfectly! I'm also pretty tall with a athletic build and the sizing guide was spot on!
"From someone who's had lower back problems in the past, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend both this gym weight lifting belt but also Beast Gear. For the price you're paying, it's a absolute quality product and much better than the other belts I've owned or used in the past. This is now my go to for big workouts and I'm glad that I bought it. 10/10."
Best leather weightlifting belt for hitting your PB
The Dark Iron Fitness Weight Lifting Belt is tailored to the needs of serious weightlifters and fitness enthusiasts. Crafted with genuine buffalo hide leather, and claims to improve your lifts by 10% on average, its belt makes for a great choice for those aiming to elevate their game without compromising on quality. The double-prong buckle ensures a secure and adjustable fit, while the reinforced stitching only enhances its longevity. Not to mention, it also has a lifetime warranty so if yours ever fails, Dark Iron Fitness has your back.
Pros
- Dark Iron Fitness claim its belt improves your lifts by 10% on average
- Made from soft buffalo hide leather to prevent the belt digging into your sides and hips
- Lifetime warranty shows product-backing
Cons
- Not approved for use in most powerlifting competitions
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL |
| Material | Buffalo hide leather |
| Closure type | Metal buckle |
| Width | 4 inches |
- Customer review: "I purchased this Dark Iron Fitness belt as I've injured my back a few times in the gym so wanted to minimise the risk by getting a weightlifting belt. I would say the belt is very good value for money compared with other products.
"The only slight issue I find is that it could do with an additional belt loop or one that has more movement as the excess from the belt gets in the way when lifting.
"The product feels like it will be very hard wearing though and last a long time."
Best budget leather weightlifting belt
www.decathlon.co.uk
The Corength Leather Weight Training Belt is a reliable and cost-effective accessory, made of leather to withstand the rigors of intense training sessions. The selling point of its belt is the 15cm width, which provides optimal support to the lower back and core, promoting a proper posture and spinal alignment during heavy lifts. Although mainly available in a variety of larger sizes, the belt is adjustable with multiple prong holes to ensure a comfortable fit throughout your workout.
Pros
- Wide design at the back for increased lumbar support during lifts
- Robust leather material to ensure wear after wear
- Adjustable, with multiple prong holes to make sure the fit is snug and doesn't fall
Cons
- Only available in larger sizes (starts from size M/L)
| Sizes | M/L, XL/2XL, 3XL/4XL |
| Material | Leather |
| Closure type | Multiple prong holes |
| Width | 15cm |
- Customer review: "The Corength Leather belt is a very comfy belt. I bought the medium/large and it fits perfect. Its got a lovely tapered section so it doesn't cut into your hips and ribs, but still nice and snug around the waist. It does what it should, very happy with my purchase."
Best high-end leather weightlifting belt
www.rogueeurope.eu
When it comes to premium leather weightlifting belts, the Rogue Ohio Lifting Belt is the standout choice. Renowned for its handcraftsmanship, this belt offers incredible strength and support. The vegetable-tanned leather not only makes for an incredibly striking weightlifting belt, but also moulds to your body after time for consistent support. With its four inch width and a range of size options (S, M, L, XL, 2XL), it makes sure your lumbar is full supported during training. In addition, the single-buckle design ensures an easily adjustable fit, making it a favourite among powerlifters and weightlifters alike.
Pros
- Handcrafted to be a longer-lasting alternative to competitors
- Vegetable-tanned leather makes for a sleek look
- Single prong buckle ensures quick adjustment
Cons
- The quality leather means it may need to be 'broken in'
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL, 2XL |
| Material | American leather |
| Closure type | Single prong buckle |
| Width | 4 inches |
- Customer review: "Just replaced my belt I bought in 1986. My Rogue Ohio Lifting Belt served me well. But the first time I lifted with this new belt I was more than impressed. Highly recommend it. I am an older lifter (60) still pumping out squats and deadlifts. Love the belt."
Best leather weightlifting belt compliant with IPL
The RDX Powerlifting Belt is robust and reliable accessory, constructed from leather. Its 10mm thickness and four inch width provide exceptional lumbar support, its belt reduces the risk of back injury during heavy lifts. Saying that, the selling point of this lifting belt is it's approved by the IPL and the USPA, meaning you can take it to powerlifting competitions. On top of that, it has a strong lever clasp closure and precision-drilled holes to suit your preferred compression levels.
Pros
- Features ten precision-drilled holes for optimal lumbar support and snug fit
- IPL (International Powerlifting League) and USPA (United States Powerlifting Association) approved meaning you can take the belt to competitions
- Premium suede leather build for comfort and durability
Cons
- Some reviewers advise going a size up
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
| Material | Leather |
| Closure type | Lever clasp closure |
| Width | 4 inches |
- Customer review: "The RDX Powerlifting Belt is sturdy and fit for purpose. I had ordered their XL belt because I was just in between two sizes and guidance told me to go one up. That belts tightest setting was loose for me when I was doing my deadlifts.
"But when I put that on my review, the company was very fast to offer me a full refund or another belt, one size smaller. So kudos to them in that regard.
"Product quality is very nice, only thing I would recommend for guidance is take your measurements when you are standing upright and maybe with drawing your breath in a little bit? I took mine while fully relaxed so maybe they weren't expecting me to do it that way."
FAQs
Are leather weightlifting belts better?
Leather weightlifting belts are often preferred by serious lifters for many reasons. Leather belts can withstand years of heavy use, and have superior stability and support to the back and core. This can help with maintaining proper lifting form, as well as minimising the risk of injuries.
Furthermore, leather is a great material to have a weightlifting belt made out of as it moulds to the body over time, which inevitably provides a more customisable fit over time.
The only disadvantage of leather weightlifting belts is that because of the nature of the fabric they may require a break-in period. It's key to choose a leather weightlifting belt that suits your own individual fitness requirements and body type so you can reap the benefits of this trusted accessory.
How long do the best leather weightlifting belts last?
The longevity of leather weightlifting belts can vary depending on factors like the quality of the leather, frequency of use and after care. To help your leather weightlifting belt stand the test of time, look for a few key factors before investing.
Leather quality: When searching for a weightlifting belt, look for one's made from top-grain or full-grain leather. These materials are commonly associated with durability and lasting wear after wear.
Width: A standard width is four millimetres, as this is ideal for most lifters as it offers ample support to the lower back and core.
Buckle type: Different leather weightlifting belts have different buckle types; whether that be single-prong or double-prong. So long as you're able to get your belt on and off easily, that's what matters.
Stitching: Ensure the belt has reinforced stitching and edges, as these contribute to its durability.
Comfort and break in period: Keep in mind that leather belts often require a break-in period to mould to your body. It's key to choose a belt that becomes more comfortable with use.
Do you need to break in a leather lifting belt?
Breaking in a leather weightlifting belt is often recommended to increase its functionality and comfort. Leather belts, particularly those made from high-quality, and thick leather, can initially feel a little rigid. To break in the belt, wear it during our workouts and allow it to mould to the shape of your body over time.
As you get more use from the weightlifting belt, the leather will gradually become more supple and will start to dig in less. Although beware, this process can take a little time, so patience is key during this break-in period. However, to quicken the process, occasional conditioning with leather balm can quicken the process.
Gemma Lavers is a fitness writer for What's The Best. When she’s not travelling or writing, Gemma loves spending her weekend completing home workouts, or attending yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes.
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