Oct 07, 2026

How to Choose the Right Lifting Belt: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Buying your first lifting belt can feel surprisingly overwhelming.

A quick search online brings up dozens of options.

It's easy to end up with more questions than answers.

The good news is that choosing the right lifting belt doesn't have to be complicated.

This guide walks through the key things to consider so you can choose a belt that suits your training now—and for years to come.

Start With Your Training Style

Before looking at colours or designs, think about how you train.

For example, are you:

Training for general strength?
A recreational gym-goer?
Interested in powerlifting?
Training for strongman?
Looking for one versatile belt?

Your training style can help narrow down the options.

The "best" lifting belt isn't the same for everyone.

It's the one that matches how you like to train.

Choose Your Belt Thickness

One of the biggest decisions is belt thickness.

6.5mm

Many lifters choose a 6.5mm belt because they prefer:

Greater flexibility.
A lighter feel.
Comfort across a variety of exercises.

10mm

A 10mm belt is often chosen by people looking for:

A balance of flexibility and rigidity.
One belt for different training styles.
A versatile everyday option.

13mm

Many lifters who prefer a firmer feel choose a 13mm belt.

Because of its rigidity, it may take longer to break in than thinner belts.

There isn't a universally "best" thickness.

It's about choosing the feel you prefer.

Decide Between a Lever or Prong Belt

The next decision is how you'd like the belt to fasten.

Lever Belt

Many people like lever belts because they offer:

Quick fastening.
Consistent fit.
Easy removal between sets.

Prong Belt

Others prefer prong belts because they:

Can be adjusted quickly.
Don't require tools to change the fit.
Offer flexibility throughout a workout.

Both styles are excellent choices.

It simply depends on which features matter most to you.

Get the Right Size

Correct sizing is one of the most important parts of choosing a lifting belt.

Rather than using your jeans size, measure your waist where you'll actually wear the belt.

Then compare that measurement with the manufacturer's sizing guide.

Every brand is slightly different, so it's always worth checking before ordering.

Think Long-Term

A quality leather lifting belt isn't something most people replace every year.

Many lifters use the same belt for years.

With that in mind, ask yourself:

Will I still like this design in five years?
Does this belt suit the way I train?
Is it something I'll enjoy using every week?

Choosing carefully now can save you upgrading later.

Should You Choose a Custom Belt?

If you're planning to use your belt for years, a custom design may be worth considering.

Many lifters enjoy personalising their belt with:

Their name.
Favourite colours.
Gym logo.
Artwork.
Embroidery.

A custom design doesn't change the purpose of the belt, but it allows you to create something that's uniquely yours.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

Before placing your order, it's worth asking yourself:

✔️ Have I measured my waist correctly?

✔️ Which thickness feels right for my training?

✔️ Do I prefer a lever or prong fastening?

✔️ Am I looking for a standard or custom design?

✔️ Is this a belt I'll still enjoy using in a few years?

If you can answer those questions confidently, you're already well on your way to choosing the right belt.

Common Buying Mistakes

Buying Based Only on Price

The cheapest option isn't always the best value, and the most expensive option isn't automatically the right choice.

Choosing Someone Else's Favourite Belt

Your training style, body shape and preferences are unique.

What works well for someone else may not be your ideal choice.

Guessing Your Size

Taking a proper waist measurement only takes a minute and can save a lot of frustration later.

Overcomplicating the Decision

There are plenty of excellent lifting belts available.

Once you've chosen the right thickness, fastening system and size, you're already making a well-informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best lifting belt for beginners?

The best belt is one that fits properly, feels comfortable and matches your preferred style of training.

Should I buy a lever or prong belt?

Both are excellent choices.

Many people choose based on convenience and personal preference.

Which thickness should I choose?

Many lifters enjoy 10mm as an all-round option, while others prefer the flexibility of 6.5mm or the rigidity of 13mm.

Is a custom lifting belt worth it?

Many people enjoy custom belts because they combine premium craftsmanship with a personalised design they'll use for years.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a lifting belt doesn't have to be confusing.

Rather than searching for the "perfect" belt, focus on finding one that matches the way you train, fits comfortably and is built to last.

Once you've chosen the right size, thickness and fastening system, you'll have a piece of equipment that can be part of your training for years to come.

Find Your Perfect Lifting Belt

Still unsure which lifting belt is right for you?

👉 Take the Anvil Strength Belt Quiz and receive a personalised recommendation based on your training style, experience and goals.

Ready to build a belt that's uniquely yours?

👉 Design Your Own Custom Lifting Belt with the Anvil Strength Belt Builder and create a premium leather lifting belt that's made for the way you train.