Having a pair of best wrist wraps for lifting on your hands may kick you up to add a few pounds on a barbell or choose heavier dumbbells at once. If you are an advanced lifter or have a special hunger for extreme weights, these guys may become your number one tool in the gym bag.
For all bench press lovers and their wrists, I have very uplifting news. I have tested the best weightlifting wrist wraps on the market to draw up the whole picture today. Read about them all and choose what to put in your bag for the next workout.
Top 9 Best Wrist Wraps Reviewed
- WARM BODY COLD MIND Premium Velcro Wrist Wraps – Best Overall
- Iron Bull Strength Premium Wrist Wraps – Runner-Up
- Rogue Fitness Wrist Wraps
- Iron Bull Strength Wrist Wraps & Lifting Straps Combo
- Gymreapers Weightlifting Wrist Wraps
- WOD Nation Wrist Wraps
- Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps
- Hustle Athletics Wrist Wraps
- HiRui Wrist Compression Strap
I have chosen nine wrist straps for working out and tested them. In order to decide on the winner, I compared the main qualities that form a decent product: design, comfort, reliability, stitching, and price-quality ratio. Find a quick summary in the table below.
1. WARM BODY COLD MIND Premium Velcro Wrist Wraps – Best Overall
- Length: 12”/18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Elastic, Cotton
The WARM BODY COLD MIND gym wrist wraps come first if you are looking for the best support for your joints. They may become your number one pick if you value affordable trustworthy gear.
The first feature that makes WBCM product the best is a strong closure system. It is secure and reliable, so you don’t have to worry about losing support in the middle of a heavy set.
Another benefit is that the WBCM material is highly breathable and absorbs sweat well. Also, the wraps are quite sturdy and rigid but at the same time, the compression can be easily regulated by stretching and pulling a wrap till your joints are fixed as firmly as you need.
Another reason why WBCM are the best wrist straps for deadlift is the price. They are frankly affordable even for amateurs who are not ready to invest great sums in gear. Nevertheless, the quality meets the expectations of pro athletes as well.
Finally, WBCM offers a training program along with the wraps, and all these stay on the lower end of the price. You just have to pick this option on Amazon and you’ll get a program from an Olympian for your highest results with the wraps.
As for the drawbacks, these wraps have only one color option available – typical black and red. For most athletes, it will not be a problem but some lifters who are in love with striking gear may find them a bit boring.
All in all, the WBCM wrist wraps can make thousands of your workouts comfortable and secure. And you don’t have to spend your savings on that!
Positives:
You can get a training program in a kit
High compression
Great value for money
Reliable stitching
Right/left hand labels
Could be better:
Only one color available
2. Iron Bull Strength Premium Wrist Wraps – Runner-Up
- Length: 20”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Cotton
Iron Bull premium are one of the best wrist straps for deadlift. They work well for serious athletes that need enough length and reliability to support their joints in the most extreme situations. Moreover, the price for such quality is just average on the market.
First, the wraps are meant to fix the biggest wrists for the heaviest sets. Therefore, their length is on the higher end and the material is quite harsh. Well, you have to choose between comfort and stability in this case or just go for the middle ground such as the winner.
As this option is a premium one, the stitching is really reliable. Even after plenty of heavy sessions, the wraps might still look brand-new. If you like brutal workouts and long-term investments, you should definitely have a look at Iron Bull premium. On top of that, the price for such wraps is surprisingly affordable.
Another pleasant upside is the color choice. Most products on the market come only in standard black-and-red look whereas Iron Bull has blue, green, grey, and total black options, too. I must also admit that the overall design looks really fancy and professional once you wrap the wrist.
All in all, the Iron Bull premium wrist wraps are great for serious lifters, aware that the highest stability and quality often entail some discomfort.
Positives:
Long enough for strong coverage
Good price
Highly durable
Several colors available
Fancy design
Could be better:
May be harsh on the skin
- Length: 12”/18”/24”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Elastic, Cotton, Polyester
Rogue falls behind the previous option just a little bit. Overall, these wraps are a well-tested option that gives everything needed for wrist stability and doesn’t take a lot of money from your wallet.
First of all, Rogue wants to support the wrists of any athlete whether it’s a huge powerlifter or a female with tiny hands. They offer 3 different sizes from 12 to 24 inches so anyone can choose the most effective and comfortable fit. Moreover, the material is very stretchy and, thus, feels rather soft on the skin. So if you need a flexible versatile option, choose a short one and if you seek strong fixation along with snug coverage, go for the longest wraps.
Also, this option may turn out to be the best wrist wraps for fitness athletes or others who don’t want to block their wrists completely but are just looking for some moderate support. The wraps keep your joints fixed but still mobile enough for dynamic exercises, especially if you pick a 12-inch size.
As for the drawbacks, some wrist wraps reviews say that Rogue should work on the stitching quality more. For me, everything looks neat and reliable but after some time of heavy loads you may see several threads. Nevertheless, if you are careful enough, these wraps might easily stay your favs for a couple of years.
All in all, Rogue takes care of all wrist sizes and all sports, giving you complete freedom to choose a desirable level of compression and support.
Positives:
Different lengths available
Comfortable fit
Versatile and flexible
Moderate support
Reliable velcro
Could be better:
Not the best stitching
- Length: 20”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Cotton, Elastic
The Iron Bull wrist wraps finish in fourth place. They might be a good choice for hardened lifters who need the highest support and love great deals.
This brand offers, perhaps, the best kit if you like to get the most for a reasonable price. Just for the average sum, you get 2 products at once – lifting wraps and straps – everything to make sure your grip handles all your challenges well. That is one of the reasons why Iron Bull products are so popular on the market. And wrist wraps follow this rule as well – they are affordable enough even for beginners who are just testing the waters of sport gear.
Another benefit is the length. 20 inches is just a middle ground but enough to wrap even a huge wrist a few times. If you are all into heavy benching, such a size might turn out to be a significant benefit. Also, you can regulate the compression by pulling a strap and then fastening the velcro.
As for comfort, the wraps might be a little bit harsh on the skin. But you have to understand that any wrap that gives high support will be somehow rigid and tough on the wrist. It may be an issue for beginners or those who need maximum flexibility and versatility but that will be a usual case for hardener lifters who constantly work with heavy weights.
Another upside is the package. If you are looking for a budget present for your gym fellow, Iron Bull has a good option for you. On top of that, straps will come in handy for any lifter, too!
As for the disadvantages, if you are constantly working with huge loads, these wraps may show some signs of wearing out quite soon. You can find some sticking threads on the seams after a few months of hard workouts. So if you decided to grab a pair of these, you better be gentle to them to make their life longer.
All in all, the Iron Bull wrist wraps are great for the highest stability in the joints and have some pleasant bonuses for your grip as well!
Positives:
Free straps in the kit
Fancy look
Excellent price
Great present
Strong support
Could be better:
A bit harsh on the skin
May show sticking threads after a while
- Length: 18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Elastic, Polyester
The Gymreapers wraps are just the middle ground in all terms. They are a great choice for amateurs or those who want to comfort their wrists but at the same time stay flexible and mobile.
The very first point that I noticed is that the material is rather soft, compared to other options on my list, but the wraps are not thin or lightweight. They engulf the hands snugly and give rather moderate support than frigid fixation. I guess a lot of beginners might find them a good option to start with.
Still, the length is enough to get adequate support as well. 18 inches can cover even thick wrists with a few layers and the stretchy material allows you to tighten everything up to the desired level. Yet, they will stay flexible enough for fitness or Olympic lifts anyway. Also, they might turn out to be comfortable deadlift wrist wraps as they neither block the circulation nor dig into your skin but give comfort and confidence in the wrists.
Nevertheless, I wouldn’t recommend the Gymreapers wraps for advanced athletes who seek maximum reliability and sturdiness. You may find them too light for the most extreme sets so you better move up on my list and find some more suitable products for your training there.
Also, the stitching is not the most reliable. At first, the seams look all right but after a while, you may find some fraying.
All in all, the Gymreapers wrists wraps are great for amateurs, beginners or those who need maximum flexibility, mobility, and comfort.
Positives:
Comfortable on the wrist
Soft material
Beginner-friendly
Moderate support
Could be better:
Unreliable seams
Not very durable
- Length: 12”/18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Polyester
- Closure system: velcro
The WOD Nation wrist wraps are great for fitness and Olympic lifts and may also become a wonderful present for such athletes.
The first impression is very good because of the interesting package. The wraps are sold in a fancy knitted bag with a catchy label. It is very convenient to store and carry around the wraps this way – they are always in order and ready to support your wrists anytime. Moreover, such a present may turn out to be a pleasant surprise for any athlete.
Another benefit is two sizes – 12- and 18-inch options. You can choose what works best for your kind of sport and personal needs. Also, the material is very stretchy so you can adjust the compression precisely and stay as flexible or stable as you wish.
As for the drawbacks, the stitching is not the best so the wraps might not endure hundreds of heavy sessions. They are great for moderate dynamic loads but professional powerlifters may find them neither rigid nor durable enough to meet their expectations. On top of that, this option is not the best deal in terms of price, too.
All in all, WOD Nation offers good versatility, especially for dynamic exercises and moderate loads.
Positives:
Two sizes available
Come in a fancy bag
Good fitness wrist wraps
Great as a present
Could be better:
Not very durable
Not the best value for money
- Length: 18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Nylon
- Closure system: velcro
The Harbinger wrist wraps may be suitable for beginners or for light workouts but will not work well for heavy training. Still, you can pick a pair as a starter option for a fairly affordable price.
To start with, the length of the wraps is 18 inches that is just the middle ground. In this case, you can cover even thick wrists with a few layers but it will not be too much for small hands as well. Also, the material is quite comfortable on the wrist – it doesn’t itch or dig into your skin.
Another benefit is several colors and designs that Harbinger offers. You can pick something to stand out in the gym or just impress your friend with a present.
However, I don’t recommend these wraps for heavy lifters and advanced workouts. The stitching falls behind other options above and you may come across some sticking threads at once. Be ready that the velcro may come off after some time but, as I said before, Harbinger is a just starter-option.
All in all, the Harbinger wrist wraps are good for beginners but, unfortunately, can’t impress athletes with durability.
Positives:
Affordable price
Comfortable on the wrist
Plenty of colors available
Universal length
Could be better:
Poor stitching
Not reliable enough for heavy loads
- Length: 12”/18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Cotton, Elastic
- Closure system: velcro
The Hustle Athletics wrist wraps are another decent product on the market. They work well for beginners and amateurs but may not be suitable for professional athletes.
The overall quality is fine and completely enough to last for a few months of moderate loads with no problems. Still, after a while, the velcro might go worse, especially if you put a lot of tension to it regularly.
I like that the wraps have two sizes available so you can choose the best for your training. Also, there are many colors and designs to make sure that everyone who wants to stand out can do that with catchy gear.
One of the drawbacks is the design. The problem is with the velcro that has a sticky part facing up so it can hook your clothes during a workout. It may be quite annoying.
All in all, the Hustle Athletics wrist wraps may be great for beginners but are not likely to meet the needs of advanced athletes.
Positives:
Different sizes available
Wide color range
Comfortable fit
Affordable price
Could be better:
Not the best stitching
- Length: 18”
- Width: 3”
- Material: Nylon
- Closure system: velcro
The HiRui wrist wraps finish the last on my list but are still good in some cases.
I would recommend them for those who have any joint issues but want to train or just perform daily activities without any pain or discomfort. The wraps are not meant only for weightlifting but come in handy even if you want to soothe the pain during the day.
You can put them on for a long time and they won’t cut off the circulation in case you don’t tighten up them firmly. Still, they give comfortable support and confidence in your safety.
In the gym, such compression wraps can be suitable for beginners or those who don’t go heavy on the regular basis. As for advanced athletes, they might find little value in such a product as it is not designed for their special needs. Also, the wraps are not likely to handle huge loads so such a challenge can end up in tears or other damages.
Still, the price is very affordable so that any person can provide their wrists with comfort and support.
All in all, the HiRui wraps will work for light or moderate weight training as well as daily use but may not satisfy a heavy lifter.
Positives:
Good flexibility
Reasonable price
Very versatile
Could be better:
Light support
Not suitable for heavy loads
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How Have I Chosen the Best Wrist Wraps for Lifting?
While choosing the best wrist wraps, I evaluated the main qualities and now I will explain the criteria to you step by step.
Design
At this stage, I gave points for effectiveness and convenience. If the wraps are quick and easy to use and all elements work for the best user experience, I gave 10 points. If there are any minor flaws in the workability of some parts, I gave an average score. And some significant faults mean 9.
Comfort
Comfort is especially important for beginners and those who perform dynamic workouts. Usually, such athletes want a snug fit and don’t like if something annoys them. The comfort depends on the material – whether it is harsh, rigid, or itchy. If there are any issues, wraps finish with 9.5 or 9.
Reliability
Reliability depends on the closure system. If it is meant to handle extreme weights, the velcro is well-stitched to the wrap and doesn’t come off after a few workouts. Such products get solid 10 points.
Stitching
The stitching quality need no explanation. If wraps show any stitching threads or fraying at once or after a few sessions, it’s a bad sign that moves an option down on the list.
Price-Quality
If you are a confident lifter who wants to get a pair of reliable wrist wraps and pay a reasonable sum, go for the winner – WBCM – or the runner-up – Iron Bull. They will work well, supporting your wrists for plenty of heavy workouts. But if you want a starter option that will be more lightweight and versatile, find some budget products with 10 points lower on my list.
What Are the Benefits of Using Wrist Wraps for Lifting?
Athletes start wrapping their wrists for different reasons. I will walk you through the main points below.
Wrist Support
The very first benefit that wrist wraps give is joint support. Most athletes use them for this reason and all other points on my list stem from this one, too.
It comes in especially handy if you have thin wrists that need an additional boost to deal with heavy weights. Most athletes can add a few kilograms to their training loads when they start using wraps. It is the result of improved stability, mechanics, coordination, and confidence as well.
Injury Prevention
As wrist wraps support and keep your joints fixed, they also reduce the risk of injury. When you constantly work with extreme weights, this benefit may give you the courage to hit a new PR and, most importantly, do that safely.
Pain Relief
As wraps take most of the load away from the wrists, they may relieve joint pain pretty well. If you have had any injuries in the past or just feel any discomfort while lifting weights, try out wrist wraps to soothe the pain.
Improved Technique
Additional support and stability in the wrists give you a better sense of the space and moves. In this way, you may notice a significant improvement in the technique and mechanics. This benefit is also tightly connected with safety as well as higher performance.
When Do You Need Wrist Support?
Wrist wraps are mainly used for wrist support and stability. You may need it to perform extreme lifts that put pressure on your joints: the bench press, overhead press, jerk, snatch, squats, etc. Generally, you can put them on whenever you feel any discomfort.
Wrist wraps bring the most benefit for powerlifting but also come in handy in Olympic weightlifting, bodybuilding and fitness. They improve technique and mechanics and that’s why some athletes can add a few kilograms to the bar once they wrap their wrists. Thus, using them to hit your dream PR also makes sense.
Additionally, athletes may want some compression to relieve wrist pain. If you have had any joint injuries in the past, fixing your wrists in place usually gives you a sense of safety and comfort. So if weight training is still on your dream list because of any joint issues, give wrist wraps a chance.
What to Look for in Lifting Wrist Wraps?
While looking for wrist support for lifting, pay attention to some key features that can make a significant difference.
Size
As for the size, wrist wraps usually differ in length. The bottom line is that the longer a wrap is, the more stability it gives. Thus, if you seek the highest compression and support, you may need a long option – it will provide more solid coverage. Also, if you have huge forearms and wrists, you may find a big size very handy.
On the other hand, if you are a female with tiny wrists, you may need a shorter option. It will be easier to put on and will give a more comfortable fit. Also, such wraps are better for dynamic exercises that need mobility and versatility.
Material
Material is all about comfort and support. In a nutshell, if wraps are made mainly of cotton, they will be sturdier and more rigid. It means less stretch and higher stability and support. On the other hand, such options may be slightly harsh on the skin but that is not a problem if you know the price for the highest fixation.
Still, most options are made of elastic, nylon, and polyester blends. Such wraps are softer and easier to put on. They also give you more versatility and flexibility rather than strong support.
Certification
Wrist wraps are allowed at powerlifting meets but still have some rules to keep in mind. The most important point is that the length should be below 1 m and the width should not exceed 8 cm.
Other regulations are about the use of wrist wraps. You shouldn’t go more than 10 cm from the center to the forearm and 2 cm to the hand. Thus, the overall coverage should be within 12 cm. Also, don’t forget to take the loop off the thumb before a set.
How to Use Wrist Wraps for Lifting?
First, put your thumb in a loop to keep a wrap in place while putting it on. Then, wrap it around your wrist with desirable compression and fasten the tail on the velcro. You can cover any area that you want and vary the tension. Now, you can take the loop off the thumb.
If you are using our winner – the WBCM wrist wraps – tuck a tail under the string to fix everything in place.
FAQ
Should I get 12- or 18-inch wrist wraps?
If you want to fix your wrists firmly in place, choose 18-inch wrist wraps – they are more solid and give more support, especially for bigger wrists. On the other hand, if your wrists are rather thin and you don’t seek 100% stability, you may find 12-inch wraps a better option, especially for beginners.
Should I get stiff or flexible wrist wraps?
The choice of wrist wraps stiffness depends on your sport. If you need the highest stability, for example, for the bench press, choose stronger products. If you are into functional fitness and seek moderate support, go for flexible wrist wraps – they will give more comfort and versatility.
Are wrist wraps cheating on the bench?
No, wrist wraps aren’t cheating on the bench – they are allowed at competitions. They just provide additional support and stability for your wrists and can improve mechanics. Still, they don’t help you to press that much.
How long do wrist wraps last?
The durability of wrist wraps depends on the quality of the material and stitching. A pair of heavy-duty wrist wraps can last up for a few years of consistent use and stay in fairly good condition. Less sturdy products may show significant signs of wearing out after a few months.
Do wrist wraps weaken your wrist?
Wrist wraps don’t weaken your wrists if you don’t get carried away with them. I recommend using them only for the hardest sets whether it’s about the weight or reps. Always make sure to provide some load for your forearms as well.
Should I wear wrist wraps for squats?
If you feel any wrist discomfort while squatting, you can use wraps for the heaviest sets. In powerlifting, athletes often do that because of a lower barbell position on the shoulders which puts more pressure on the joints.
My Verdict
All in all, check out the first three products on my list – WBCM, Iron Bull premium, and Rogue – and you will find the best wrist wraps for serious lifters. If you are a beginner who just wants some joint comfort and support, have a look at other options on my list as well – there are plenty of interesting products there, too.
What do you look for in your future wrist wraps? Share your expectations in the comment section!
Also read:
References:
- How To Use Wrist Wraps // Powerlifting Technique: https://powerliftingtechnique.com/how-to-use-wrist-wraps/
My name is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. I am a professional athlete with 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. I have won multiple European, and World titles and have taken part in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012).
Torokhtiy Team
Hi @Meer!
Wrist wraps are commonly used in weightlifting and powerlifting to provide support and stability to the wrists during heavy lifts. While they can be helpful in preventing injuries, it is not necessary to wear them all the time.
Wearing wrist wraps constantly can lead to over-reliance on them, weakening the muscles and tendons in the wrists over time. It is important to use wrist wraps as a tool in conjunction with proper form, warm-up, and conditioning exercises to build wrist strength and prevent injury.
Ultimately, the decision to wear wrist wraps all the time is a personal one that should be based on individual needs and preferences. Consult with a qualified fitness professional or medical provider to determine what’s best for you.
Meer
Should I wear wrist wraps all the time?
Henrik
As a pro athlete, I’ve tried many wrist straps for weightlifting, and I must say that the Warm Body Cold Mind Premium Velcro Wrist Wraps are the best I’ve used so far. These wrist wraps provide incredible support and stability for my joints during heavy lifting, and the strong closure system ensures that they stay in place throughout my entire workout.
I also appreciate the breathable and sweat-absorbent material, which keeps my hands dry and comfortable during intense training sessions. The wraps are sturdy and rigid, yet the compression can be easily adjusted to meet my individual needs.
One minor downside is that the elastic material may lose some of its elasticity over time, but this is a common issue with all wrist straps for weightlifting. However, the affordable price point makes it easy to replace them when necessary.
Overall, I highly recommend this garment to any athlete looking for reliable and affordable wrist support during weightlifting. These wraps have exceeded my expectations and have become an essential part of my gym gear.