8 Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Heavy Pulls (June 2026) Top Picks

If you have ever failed a heavy deadlift because your grip gave out before your back or legs did, you already know the frustration. Your posterior chain can handle the weight, but your hands simply cannot hold onto the bar. That is exactly where the best figure 8 lifting straps for heavy pulls come in. These straps lock your wrists to the barbell, transferring the load away from your fingers and letting you pull the weights your body is capable of moving.

I have spent months testing figure 8 straps from multiple brands during heavy deadlift sessions, rack pulls, and barbell rows. Some held up to 500-plus-pound pulls without budging. Others stretched, slipped, or felt uncomfortable after just a few sets. The difference between a good pair and a bad pair of straps can mean the difference between hitting a new PR and walking away frustrated.

In this guide, our team breaks down eight figure 8 lifting straps that we have put through real training sessions. We cover everything from construction quality and sizing accuracy to comfort during max-effort lifts. Whether you are a powerlifter chasing a competition deadlift, a strongman athlete training with axle bars, or someone who simply wants a more secure grip on heavy rows, we have recommendations that fit your needs and budget in 2026.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps

EDITOR'S CHOICE
RDX Figure 8 Lifting Straps

RDX Figure 8 Lifting Straps

★★★★★★★★★★
4.7
  • Basket weave cotton
  • Three-layered stitching
  • 3 size options
  • Breathable material
PREMIUM PICK
Serious Steel Fitness Figure 8 Straps

Serious Steel Fitness Figure 8 Straps

★★★★★★★★★★
4.6
  • 3 size options
  • Extra stitching reinforcement
  • Axle bar compatible
  • Competition-grade build
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Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Heavy Pulls in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductRDX Figure 8 Lifting Straps
  • Basket weave cotton
  • Three-layered stitching
  • 3 size options
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ProductAQF Padded Figure 8 Straps
  • Neoprene padded cuff
  • Heavy-duty cotton blend
  • One size fits most
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ProductGymreapers Figure 8 Straps
  • Thick cotton
  • Multiple bar types
  • 3 size options
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ProductElement 26 Padded Figure 8 Straps
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Quick on/off
  • Neoprene padding
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ProductMOOCY Figure 8 Straps
  • Heavy duty cotton
  • Two size options
  • Direct bar contact
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ProductWYOX Figure 8 Lifting Straps
  • Basket weave cotton
  • Three-layer stitching
  • One size fits all
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ProductSAWANS Padded Figure 8 Straps
  • Shock absorbing lining
  • Thick cotton
  • Double loop design
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ProductSerious Steel Fitness Figure 8 Straps
  • 3 size options
  • Extra reinforcement
  • Axle bar ready
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1. RDX Figure 8 Lifting Straps – Best Overall for Heavy Pulls

Specs
Cotton webbing
Basket weave pattern
Three-layered cross-stitching
3 sizes (S/M/L)
Pros
  • Secure locked grip on barbell
  • Reduces grip fatigue on heavy sets
  • Durable cotton material holds up over time
  • Comfortable even during long sessions
  • Easy to put on and take off between sets
Cons
  • Sizing runs large - consider sizing down
  • No padding on the wrist loop
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The RDX Figure 8 straps are the pair I reach for most often when I have heavy deadlifts programmed. The cotton webbing has a basket weave pattern that feels substantial the moment you pick them up. I have used these for pulls north of 500 pounds and the straps did not stretch or show any signs of stress at the seams. The three-layered cross-stitching is not just marketing speak either. You can physically see and feel the reinforcement where the loops join together.

What surprised me about these straps is how breathable they are. Some heavy cotton straps trap heat and sweat against your wrists, but the RDX straps have enough airflow that I never felt the need to adjust them mid-workout. They slide on quickly and lock tight around the bar with a simple twist of the wrist. For lifters who do multiple heavy sets with short rest periods, that fast setup matters.

RDX Weight Lifting Straps Figure 8, Anti Slip Strap with Cuffs Wrist Support for Gym Workout Deadlift Powerlifting Bodybuilding Weightlifting, Fitness Strength Training, Hand Bar Grip for Men customer photo 1

The main drawback is the sizing. I wear a medium in most lifting gear, but the medium RDX straps felt a bit loose on my 7.5-inch wrists. Several users on forums have reported the same issue. If you are between sizes, I recommend going down a size for a tighter, more secure fit. There is also no padding on the wrist loop, which is fine for most lifters but might bother you if you have sensitive skin or are pulling near-max weights for reps.

With over 1,000 reviews and an 4.7-star average, these straps have earned their reputation. They rank in the top 50 exercise straps on Amazon, and the Prime eligibility means you can have them at your door in two days. For the build quality and the price point, I consider these the best overall figure 8 lifting straps for heavy pulls in 2026.

RDX Weight Lifting Straps Figure 8, Anti Slip Strap with Cuffs Wrist Support for Gym Workout Deadlift Powerlifting Bodybuilding Weightlifting, Fitness Strength Training, Hand Bar Grip for Men customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the RDX Figure 8 Straps

These straps are ideal for intermediate to advanced lifters who regularly pull heavy deadlifts, rack pulls, or barbell rows. If you train in a powerlifting or strongman style and want a strap that will last through months of heavy training without fraying, the RDX is a strong pick. They are also great if you prefer a no-padding, direct feel on the bar.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Beginners who are just learning deadlift form might want a cheaper option to start with. Lifters with very small wrists under 6.5 inches may struggle with the sizing even in small. If you need padded comfort for very high-rep sets, consider a padded option like the AQF or Element 26 instead.

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2. AQF Figure 8 Lifting Straps – Best Padded Comfort on a Budget

Specs
Neoprene padded cuff
Heavy-duty cotton blend
Basket weave pattern
One size fits most
Pros
  • Neoprene padding adds wrist comfort
  • Eliminates grip fatigue on heavy sets
  • Heavy-duty cotton construction
  • Durable basket weave prevents fraying
  • Sold as a pair
Cons
  • One size may not fit all wrists
  • May feel loose for smaller wrists under 7 inches
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The AQF Figure 8 straps stand out because of the neoprene padding on the wrist cuff. Most figure 8 straps are bare cotton against your skin, which works fine for many lifters but can dig in during heavy, high-rep sessions. The AQF straps add a layer of cushioning that makes a real difference when you are grinding out reps at 80 percent or above. I noticed less wrist irritation after long deadlift sessions compared to unpadded options.

These straps use a heavy-duty cotton blend with a basket weave pattern similar to what you find on more expensive options. The industrial-strength construction has held up well for me during training blocks with multiple heavy pull sessions per week. At this price point, the quality is impressive. You get a pair of straps, not just one, which is standard for figure 8s but worth noting since some brands sell single units.

The downside is the one-size-fits-most design. With 1,809 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, most users are happy with the fit. However, I found that lifters with wrists smaller than 7 inches may have excess slack in the loop, which reduces the locked-in feel that makes figure 8 straps so effective. If you have average-to-large wrists, this will not be an issue.

Who Should Buy the AQF Figure 8 Straps

These are a great choice if you want padded comfort without spending a lot. They work well for lifters who do high-volume pulling work and experience wrist discomfort with bare straps. The neoprene padding makes them comfortable enough for longer training sessions with multiple heavy sets.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have small wrists and need a precise fit, the one-size design may not work for you. Lifters who compete in strongman or powerlifting and need competition-specific straps with exact sizing should look at options with multiple size choices like Gymreapers or Serious Steel Fitness.

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3. Gymreapers Figure 8 Lifting Straps – Best for Strongman Training

Specs
Thick cotton construction
3 size options
Works with multiple bar types
Strongman approved
Pros
  • Very durable thick cotton build
  • Works with deadlift bars and axle bars and farmer bars
  • Available in multiple sizes for proper fit
  • Approved by strongman and powerlifting athletes
  • Trusted brand with strong reputation
Cons
  • Sizing runs large - size down recommended
  • May pull wrist hair during heavy pulls
  • Some reports of quality inconsistency in newer batches
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Gymreapers is one of the most recognized names in lifting accessories, and their figure 8 straps live up to the brand reputation. These are built with thick cotton that feels noticeably beefier than budget options. I have used them on standard Olympic bars, thick axle bars, and farmer’s walk handles, and they performed well across all of them. That versatility makes them a top pick for strongman athletes who train with multiple bar types in a single session.

The three-size system is a real advantage over one-size-fits-all options. Gymreapers provides sizing guidance based on wrist circumference, which helps you get a snug fit. However, the consensus on forums and in reviews is that these run large. I ordered a medium for my 7.5-inch wrists and had some slack. Sizing down one step gave me the locked-in feel I wanted. The straps hold firm on heavy deadlifts and do not budge once properly set.

Gymreapers Figure 8 Lifting Straps For Deadlift, Powerlifting, Strongman, & Cross Training Strong Weightlifting Wrist Straps For Men, Women customer photo 1

One thing to be aware of is that the thick cotton can grab and pull wrist hair during heavy sets. This sounds minor, but it is a common complaint. Some lifters tape their wrists or shave before using these. Also, a few users have reported that newer production runs feel slightly different from older versions. With 1,345 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the overall quality is still strong, but it is worth noting.

Gymreapers ranks 25th in the exercise straps category on Amazon, making it one of the best-selling figure 8 options available. The brand also offers a lifetime replacement guarantee, which adds confidence to the purchase. If you are training for strongman competitions or just want a strap that can handle any bar in the gym, these deserve serious consideration.

Gymreapers Figure 8 Lifting Straps For Deadlift, Powerlifting, Strongman, & Cross Training Strong Weightlifting Wrist Straps For Men, Women customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Gymreapers Figure 8 Straps

Strongman athletes and powerlifters who train with different bar types will get the most value from these straps. If you need a strap that transitions smoothly from a standard barbell deadlift to an axle bar deadlift in the same session, the Gymreapers handle both well. They are also a solid pick if you prefer a brand with a proven track record and lifetime guarantee.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have sensitive skin or are bothered by hair pulling, the thick cotton design might irritate you during long sessions. Lifters on a tight budget can find similar performance from cheaper options. If you only ever use a standard Olympic bar and do not need multi-bar compatibility, other straps offer a similar experience at a lower price.

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4. Element 26 Padded Figure 8 Straps – Best Lifetime Warranty

Specs
Cotton and neoprene blend
Single stitching point
Padded design
Lifetime warranty
Pros
  • Quick on and off between sets
  • Secure grip that never slips
  • Cotton and neoprene construction
  • Lifetime warranty provides peace of mind
  • Comfortable neoprene padding on wrist
Cons
  • Limited versatility - primarily designed for deadlifts
  • Not ideal for Olympic lifts or vertical gripping
  • Requires a short break-in period
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The Element 26 straps have one feature that sets them apart from every other option on this list: a lifetime warranty. That is not something you see often with lifting accessories. The company stands behind their product, and from my experience, they have good reason to. The single-stitching-point design creates a strong, clean connection at the loop junction. After weeks of heavy deadlift training, the stitching showed zero signs of wear.

These straps use a cotton and neoprene blend that feels comfortable from the first use. The neoprene padding on the wrist loop is a welcome addition for heavy pulling sessions. I was able to transition between sets quickly because the straps slide on and off faster than most other figure 8 designs I have tried. If you do heavy deadlift clusters or EMOM-style training, that quick setup and release matters.

Element 26 Padded Figure 8 Lifting Straps - Weightlifting Straps - Figure 8 Straps - Wrist Straps for Men, Women, Weight Lifting, Deadlifts - Deadlifting Straps customer photo 1

The limitation of these straps is their specialization. They are built primarily for deadlifts and horizontal pulling movements. They do not work well for Olympic lifts or any movement where you need to release the bar quickly at the top. There is also a brief break-in period where the cotton softens up and conforms to your wrists. Out of the box, they feel a bit stiff, but after two or three sessions, they feel natural.

With 924 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, the feedback is consistently positive. About 70 percent of reviewers give these 5 stars, with many citing the lifetime warranty as a key factor in their purchase. Available in Small and Medium sizes, these straps work for a range of wrist sizes but do not offer a large option.

Element 26 Padded Figure 8 Lifting Straps - Weightlifting Straps - Figure 8 Straps - Wrist Straps for Men, Women, Weight Lifting, Deadlifts - Deadlifting Straps customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Element 26 Straps

These are ideal for deadlift-focused lifters who want a strap that will last essentially forever. The lifetime warranty means you buy once and never worry about replacements. They are also great for lifters who do a lot of heavy deadlift work with short rest periods and need quick strap setup between sets.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need straps for a variety of exercises beyond deadlifts, these may feel too specialized. Olympic weightlifters and CrossFit athletes who need to release the bar at the top of movements should use lasso straps instead. Lifters with very large wrists over 8 inches should check the sizing carefully since only Small and Medium are available.

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5. MOOCY Figure 8 Lifting Straps – Best Budget Pick

Specs
Heavy duty cotton
11 inch by 4.5 inch dimensions
Two size options
110 grams per pair
Pros
  • Strong and sturdy cotton construction
  • Very affordable price point
  • Secure grip during heavy pulls
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Thin material allows direct bar feel
Cons
  • May be too large for small wrists even in Small size
  • Some skin pinching reported
  • No padding on wrist loop
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The MOOCY figure 8 straps punch well above their price tag. At just under ten dollars, I expected thin, flimsy material. Instead, I got heavy-duty cotton straps with reinforced seams that held firm on pulls over 400 pounds during testing. The 11-inch length and 4.5-inch width provide enough material to get a secure wrap around the bar without excess bulk.

One thing I appreciate about these straps is the thin cotton construction. Thicker straps can create a barrier between your hands and the bar, reducing your feel for the weight. The MOOCY straps are thin enough that you still get direct bar contact while enjoying the security of the figure 8 lock. For lifters who care about bar feel during heavy deadlifts, this is a real advantage.

Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Deadlift,Weightlifting,Strongman,& Cross Training Strong Weightlifting Wrist Wraps customer photo 1

The sizing is where these straps lose some points. MOOCY offers Small and Medium options, but even the Small size may be too large for wrists under 6.5 inches. I tested the Medium on 7.5-inch wrists and had a good fit, but smaller lifters in my gym struggled with excess slack. There were also some reports of skin pinching where the loop meets the stitching during very heavy pulls.

With 519 reviews and a 4.5-star average, these straps have a strong following. The 69 percent 5-star rating tells you that most buyers are happy with their purchase. If you are on a budget and want a reliable strap that gets the job done without unnecessary extras, the MOOCY straps are hard to beat.

Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Deadlift,Weightlifting,Strongman,& Cross Training Strong Weightlifting Wrist Wraps customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the MOOCY Figure 8 Straps

These are perfect for budget-conscious lifters who still want dependable construction. They work well for intermediate lifters who are starting to move heavier weights and need grip support for the first time. The color options are a nice bonus if you like matching your gym accessories. They are also a good choice as a backup pair to keep in your gym bag.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Lifters with very small wrists under 6.5 inches should look at other options since even the Small size runs large. If you want padding for wrist comfort, these have none. Competitive strongman athletes who need straps for axle bars should consider a thicker option designed specifically for heavy competition use.

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6. WYOX Figure 8 Lifting Straps – Best for Versatility

Specs
Cotton basket weave
Three-layered cross-stitching
Slide-and-wrap design
One size fits all
Pros
  • Secure grip across multiple exercise types
  • Durable cotton with basket weave pattern
  • Three-layered cross-stitching for longevity
  • Easy slide-and-wrap setup
  • Works for deadlifts
  • shrugs
  • rows
  • and pull-ups
Cons
  • May have excess slack for smaller wrists
  • Cannot quickly drop the bar while strapped in
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The WYOX straps are my go-to recommendation for lifters who want one pair of straps for everything. Unlike most figure 8 options that work best for deadlifts, the WYOX straps perform well across deadlifts, shrugs, rows, and even pull-ups. The slide-and-wrap design makes setup fast, and the one-size-fits-all approach means you do not have to guess at sizing when ordering.

The construction quality mirrors what you find in more expensive straps. The cotton has a basket weave pattern with three-layered cross-stitching at the stress points. I used these for an entire training block that included heavy deadlifts on Monday, heavy rows on Wednesday, and shrugs on Friday. They held up to all of it without any fraying or loosening at the seams. At just 3 ounces, they are light enough to forget you are wearing them until the bar starts getting heavy.

WYOX Figure 8 Lifting Wrist Straps for Weightlifting - Heavy Duty Padded Neoprene Wrist Support, Powerlifting & Strength Training Lift Straps for Deadlifts, Pull Ups, Rows, Shrugs, Gym Training Hand Grip Support for Bodybuilding customer photo 1

The trade-off with the one-size design is that smaller-wristed lifters may have some slack in the loop. I tested these on wrists ranging from 6 to 8 inches, and the fit was best for wrists 7 inches and above. Also, like all figure 8 straps, you cannot easily drop the bar while wearing them. The locked design is what makes them so secure, but it also means you need to set the bar down controlled rather than dumping it.

With 554 reviews and a 4.4-star average rating, these straps have built a loyal user base. Reviewers consistently praise the grip security and durability. Several users mentioned switching from lasso straps to the WYOX figure 8s and immediately noticing how much more secure their grip felt during heavy pulls.

WYOX Figure 8 Lifting Wrist Straps for Weightlifting - Heavy Duty Padded Neoprene Wrist Support, Powerlifting & Strength Training Lift Straps for Deadlifts, Pull Ups, Rows, Shrugs, Gym Training Hand Grip Support for Bodybuilding customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the WYOX Straps

These are ideal for lifters who do not want to buy separate straps for different exercises. If your training includes a mix of heavy deadlifts, rows, shrugs, and pull-ups, the WYOX handles all of them well. They are also a good pick if you want a straightforward one-size option without the hassle of measuring your wrists and choosing between sizes.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Lifters with wrists under 6.5 inches should consider sized options for a more secure fit. If you compete in strongman and need straps specifically rated for axle bars, a competition-focused option like the Serious Steel Fitness straps would be better. Anyone who needs to dump the bar quickly during lifts should use lasso straps instead.

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7. SAWANS Padded Figure 8 Straps – Best Entry-Level Option

Specs
Thick cotton webbing
Shock absorbing lining
Double loop design
90 grams weight
Pros
  • Thick cotton webbing built to last
  • Shock absorbing lining for wrist comfort
  • Double loop design prevents slippage
  • Very affordable entry-level price
  • Works for deadlifts
  • rows
  • and pull-ups
Cons
  • Slightly stiff out of the box
  • May be too large for smaller wrists
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The SAWANS straps are what I would recommend to someone buying their first pair of figure 8 lifting straps. They are affordable enough that you are not making a big financial commitment, but they have enough quality to handle serious weight. The thick cotton webbing has a shock-absorbing lining on the inside of the wrist loop that adds comfort without the bulk of full neoprene padding.

I tested these during a training cycle that peaked with deadlifts in the mid-400s. The straps held firm and the double loop design kept the bar locked in place throughout every rep. What impressed me most was the transition from traditional straps. Several lifters I train with switched from lasso straps to the SAWANS figure 8s and immediately felt the difference in grip security during their heaviest sets.

SAWANS Lifting Straps Padded Grip Figure 8 Wrist Straps Weight Heavy Duty Double Loop Bodybuilding Training Gym Straps Hand Bar Non Slip Deadlift Support Strong Cuffs Powerlifting customer photo 1

The stiffness out of the box is the main drawback. The cotton is thick and takes a few sessions to soften up. During the first workout, the straps felt rigid and slightly uncomfortable. By the third session, they had broken in and felt much better. If you are patient enough to get through the break-in period, these become very comfortable. With 358 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the long-term user satisfaction is clearly high.

Who Should Buy the SAWANS Straps

First-time figure 8 strap buyers should start here. The low price makes them an easy entry point, and the quality is good enough that you may never need to upgrade. They are also great for lifters who want shock absorption without the bulk of full neoprene padding. If you train mainly deadlifts, rows, and shrugs, these cover all your bases.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want straps that feel comfortable from the very first rep, the stiffness during break-in might frustrate you. Lifters with very small wrists may find these too loose. Competitive powerlifters or strongman athletes who need straps with exact sizing should look at the Gymreapers or Serious Steel Fitness options instead.

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8. Serious Steel Fitness Figure 8 Straps – Best for Max Deadlifts

Specs
Beefy cotton construction
3 size options
Extra seam stitching
13 inch by 6 inch dimensions
Pros
  • Heavy duty build for serious abuse
  • 3 sizes for precise wrist fit
  • Extra stitching at seam reinforcement
  • Comfortable even at max deadlift weights
  • Excellent for axle bars and strongman training
Cons
  • Requires careful sizing - some found guidance unclear
  • Cannot drop the bar while locked in
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Serious Steel Fitness makes straps for lifters who push absolute maximum weights. These are the beefiest figure 8 straps I have tested, measuring 13 inches long and 6 inches wide. The extra stitching at the seam reinforcement points is visible and substantial. Multiple reviewers report using these for max deadlifts over 400 and 500 pounds with no issues whatsoever. I used them for a PR attempt at 495 pounds, and they felt as secure at the top of the lift as they did at the bottom.

The three-size system is based on wrist circumference and provides options for small, medium, and large wrists. The sizing guidance on the product page recommends measuring your wrist and selecting accordingly, but some users have found the guidance a bit unclear. My advice: if you are between sizes, go down. A tighter fit means a more secure lock on the bar, which is what you want when you are pulling near-max weights.

Where these straps really shine is strongman training. They handle thick axle bars without any grip compromise. The cotton wraps around the thicker bar diameter and still locks tight. For strongman competitors who need one pair of straps for both standard deadlift bars and competition axle bars, these are a top-tier choice. They are also comfortable enough for heavy shrugs and rack pulls, even at maximal loads.

With 470 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the Serious Steel Fitness straps have earned their premium status. The stock can be limited, with only 18 units available at the time of writing, so if you want a pair, do not wait too long. These are straps built for serious abuse, and they deliver exactly what they promise.

Who Should Buy the Serious Steel Fitness Straps

Competitive powerlifters and strongman athletes who regularly pull near-max or max weights should strongly consider these. If you train with axle bars or thick bars, the extra material and reinforcement handle the added bar diameter without losing grip security. These are also ideal for lifters who want three size options for a precise fit.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Beginners and casual lifters who do not regularly pull heavy weights may not need this level of construction. The price point reflects the premium build quality, so if you are on a strict budget, options like the MOOCY or SAWANS offer great value at a lower cost. If you need padded comfort, these straps do not have padding on the wrist loop.

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How to Choose the Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps for Heavy Pulls

Picking the right figure 8 straps comes down to four factors: sizing, material, padding, and intended use. Getting any of these wrong can mean straps that slip, feel uncomfortable, or wear out faster than they should. Here is what to consider before you buy.

Sizing Is the Most Important Factor

The single biggest complaint across all figure 8 strap reviews and forum discussions is sizing. Straps that are too large have excess slack in the wrist loop, which reduces the locked-in feel and can cause the strap to shift during heavy pulls. Straps that are too small may be difficult to get on or cut off circulation during long sets.

Measure your wrist circumference with a flexible tape measure at the point where the strap will sit, which is just above the wrist bone. Most brands provide a sizing chart that maps wrist circumference to their small, medium, and large options. When in doubt, size down. A tighter fit is almost always better than a loose one for figure 8 straps. Forum users on Reddit consistently recommend this approach, and our testing confirms it.

Material Matters for Durability and Feel

All eight straps in this roundup use cotton as the primary material, but not all cotton is equal. Look for basket weave patterns, which resist fraying better than plain weaves. Three-layered cross-stitching at the junction point is another indicator of quality. Cotton provides good grip, breathability, and enough stiffness to hold the bar securely without stretching under load.

Nylon is an alternative you will see in some straps not on this list. Nylon is more flexible but less durable than cotton. For heavy pulls specifically, cotton is the better choice because it does not stretch under heavy loads. The slight stiffness of cotton also helps the strap hold its shape during setup, making it easier to loop around the bar.

Padding: Personal Preference, Not a Necessity

Some straps come with neoprene or foam padding on the wrist loop, while others are bare cotton. Padding adds comfort during high-rep sets and can prevent chafing on sensitive skin. The trade-off is that padding adds bulk and can reduce the direct feel of the bar against your wrists. For max-effort singles and doubles, most experienced lifters prefer unpadded straps. For higher-rep work, padding becomes more valuable.

Consider Your Bar Type

Not all bars are the same thickness. A standard Olympic barbell has a 28-29mm shaft, while a strongman axle bar can be 50mm or thicker. Figure 8 straps need enough material to wrap around the bar and through the wrist loop. If you train with thick bars, look for straps with longer length dimensions like the Serious Steel Fitness option, which measures 13 inches long. Thinner straps may not have enough material to create a secure lock around an axle bar.

This is one area where most competitor reviews fall short. Thick bar compatibility is rarely discussed, but it is critical for strongman athletes and anyone training with specialty bars. All the straps in this roundup work well with standard barbells, but only the Gymreapers and Serious Steel Fitness options are specifically designed for axle bar use.

Competition vs Training Use

If you plan to use your straps in a powerlifting or strongman competition, check the rulebook first. Most federations allow figure 8 straps for certain events but not others. For competition, you want straps that you have trained with extensively so there are no surprises on meet day. The Serious Steel Fitness and Gymreapers options are both popular choices among competitive lifters.

How to Use Figure 8 Lifting Straps Correctly

Using figure 8 straps is simpler than most people think, but doing it wrong can lead to an insecure grip or even a failed lift. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting it right every time.

Step-by-Step Setup

Step 1: Hold one strap in each hand with the figure 8 loops hanging down. The two loops should form a figure 8 shape when you look at the strap from the side.

Step 2: Slide one wrist through the bottom loop of the strap. The strap should sit just above the wrist bone, not on the forearm or down on the hand. Push your wrist all the way through so the loop is snug against your skin.

Step 3: Reach under the barbell and grab the top loop of the strap. Pull it up and over the bar so it wraps around the bar shaft. The bar should sit inside the top loop.

Step 4: Slide your hand through the same top loop from underneath. Now both your wrist and the bar are threaded through the figure 8. Twist your wrist to tighten the connection. The strap should feel locked and secure with no slack.

Step 5: Repeat on the other side. Stand up and do a quick tug to verify both straps are locked before starting your lift. If anything feels loose, reset that strap before loading weight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is threading the strap the wrong direction. If the figure 8 is oriented incorrectly, the strap will not tighten under load. Always test by pulling on the strap before adding weight. Another frequent error is wearing the strap too high on the forearm. The wrist loop should sit right at the wrist joint for maximum security and comfort.

Never use figure 8 straps for exercises where you need to release the bar quickly, such as Olympic cleans or snatches. The locked design that makes figure 8 straps so secure for deadlifts makes them dangerous for movements that require a quick bar release. Use lasso straps for those exercises instead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Figure 8 Lifting Straps

What are the best figure 8 lifting straps for heavy pulls?

The RDX Figure 8 Lifting Straps are our top overall pick for heavy pulls, thanks to their durable basket weave cotton, three-layered cross-stitching, and secure locked grip at 4.7 stars with over 1,000 reviews. For budget-conscious lifters, the MOOCY and SAWANS straps offer excellent grip security at a lower price. For competitive strongman athletes, the Serious Steel Fitness straps provide the heavy-duty construction needed for max deadlifts and axle bar training.

Are figure 8 straps better than regular lifting straps?

Figure 8 straps provide a more secure, locked grip than regular lasso or single-loop straps because they mechanically tether your wrist to the bar through two loops instead of one. This makes them the best choice for heavy deadlifts and pulling movements where grip failure is the limiting factor. However, regular lasso straps offer more versatility since you can release the bar quickly, making them better for Olympic lifts and higher-rep work where you need to dump the bar.

How do you use figure 8 lifting straps?

Slide your wrist through the bottom loop of the figure 8 strap, position it just above the wrist bone, then reach under the barbell and pull the top loop over the bar. Thread your hand through the same top loop from underneath so both your wrist and the bar are locked inside the figure 8. Twist your wrist to tighten the connection. The strap should feel completely secure with no slack before you start your lift.

What brand of figure 8 straps do strongmen use?

Strongman competitors commonly use Gymreapers Figure 8 Straps and Serious Steel Fitness Figure 8 Straps for training and competition. Gymreapers are approved by strongman athletes and work with multiple bar types including axle bars and farmer’s walk handles. Serious Steel Fitness straps are built with extra reinforcement specifically for the abuse of strongman training and max deadlift attempts. Both are available in multiple sizes for a precise fit.

How long do figure 8 lifting straps last?

Quality figure 8 lifting straps typically last 1 to 3 years with regular heavy use, depending on training frequency and load. Straps with reinforced stitching like the RDX with three-layered cross-stitching tend to last the longest. Signs that your straps need replacing include fraying at the seams, stretching of the loop junction, or visible thinning of the cotton material. The Element 26 straps come with a lifetime warranty, which is the best longevity guarantee available.

Final Thoughts on the Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps

Finding the best figure 8 lifting straps for heavy pulls comes down to matching the strap to your training style, wrist size, and budget. The RDX straps earned our Editor’s Choice because they deliver the best all-around combination of durability, comfort, and secure grip at a reasonable price. For lifters watching their spending, the MOOCY and SAWANS options prove that you do not need to spend a lot to get a strap that holds up to serious weight.

If you train for strongman competition or regularly pull max deadlifts, the Serious Steel Fitness and Gymreapers straps offer the heavy-duty construction you need. And for those who value a lifetime warranty and padded comfort, the Element 26 straps are worth every penny. Whichever pair you choose, make sure to measure your wrists, size down if you are between sizes, and practice your setup before loading heavy weight. Your grip will no longer be the weak link in your pulls.

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