Figure 8 lifting straps bypass the most stubborn limitation in heavy pulling: your grip. Unlike traditional lasso-style straps that demand careful wrapping and often loosen during a set, figure 8s lock your hands to the bar the moment you take the slack. There’s no twisting, no re-tightening, and no mental overhead between reps — just a secure, biomechanically direct connection that lets your posterior chain do the work.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. I’ve spent years analyzing the tensile strength, seam construction, and material density of lifting accessories across dozens of brands, and I focus on which specs actually predict whether a strap survives a 500 lb deadlift session.
This guide breaks down five of the most reliable options currently available, with a focus on fit accuracy, stitch reinforcement, and real-world versatility. If you are shopping for the best figure 8 lifting straps, the information here will help you match the right pair to your wrist size and training style.
How To Choose The Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps
Figure 8 straps are mechanically simple, but small differences in material, stitching, and sizing dramatically change how they perform on heavy pulls. Here are the three factors that separate a strap that lasts years from one that frays or fits poorly after a few sessions.
Wrist circumference and the sizing trap
The most common mistake buyers make is ordering based on hand size or glove size rather than measuring the actual wrist circumference just above the wrist bone. A strap that is too large introduces slack, which means you have to twist the loop to shorten it, creating uneven tension and discomfort. A strap that is too small digs into the wrist and limits blood flow between sets. Most premium brands offer three or four sizes, and the correct fit should feel snug without requiring a twist to connect the loops.
Stitch pattern and webbing density
Figure 8 straps experience direct tensile load at two points: the center seam where the two loops meet, and the reinforced edge of each loop. Look for three-layered cross-stitching in the center and bar-tack reinforcement at the loop junctions. Cotton webbing with a basket-weave pattern (typically 1.5 mm to 2 mm thick) offers the best balance of grip friction and comfort. Neoprene padding adds comfort on the top of the wrist but can compress over time, so straps that rely on padding alone without dense webbing underneath tend to lose their structure faster.
Versatility: deadlift focus versus all-purpose use
Figure 8 straps excel at deadlifts because the locked position prevents the bar from rolling out of your grip. However, that same lock makes it difficult to bail out of a failed rep or to switch exercises quickly. If you train mostly deadlifts and heavy rows, figure 8s are ideal. If you need straps for Olympic lifts, pull-ups, or snatch-grip work, traditional lasso-style straps offer more flexibility. Some figure 8 models with thinner webbing allow easier release, but no figure 8 will match the versatility of a standard loop strap.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WYOX Figure 8 | Mid-Range | Everyday heavy pulls | Three-layer cross stitching | Amazon |
| Element 26 Padded | Mid-Range | Smaller wrists, quick transitions | Neoprene pad, single stitch point | Amazon |
| Grip Power Pads | Premium | Strongman, heavy pulls over 1000 lbs | Triple-stitched, 1000+ lb capacity | Amazon |
| SERIOUS STEEL FITNESS | Premium | Serious deadlifters, strongman | Beefy cotton, reinforced seams | Amazon |
| IRON APE | Premium | Axle bars, larger wrists | Thick cotton, four sizes available | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. WYOX Figure 8 Lifting Wrist Straps
WYOX’s figure 8 straps use a dense cotton webbing with a basket-weave pattern that provides excellent friction against the bar without needing a sticky coating. The three-layered cross-stitching in the center seam is the same reinforcement method used in much more expensive straps, and it resists fraying even after repeated exposure to chalk and moisture. At just three ounces per pair, these straps feel lightweight on the wrist but hold up well under sustained tension.
The single standard size fits most wrist circumferences adequately, but users with wrists under 6 inches may find the loop has a small amount of slack that requires a slight twist to tighten. Experienced powerlifters in the reviews note that the straps help achieve lifts beyond 500 pounds without the bar slipping, which speaks to the integrity of the material. The camo color is purely aesthetic, but the dye does not bleed or fade noticeably after several washes.
For lifters who want figure 8 performance without paying a premium, these straps deliver the essential mechanical advantages — locked grip, fast setup, and durable construction — at a price that leaves room for other gear. The only real compromise is the limited sizing, which may not suit those with very small or very large wrists perfectly.
Why it’s great
- Reinforced three-layer cross stitching at the center seam
- Lightweight cotton webbing reduces wrist fatigue during long sets
- Proven performance at 500+ lbs according to user reports
Good to know
- Single standard size may not fit very small or very large wrists precisely
- Lacks padding, which may be uncomfortable for some users during heavy pulls
2. Element 26 Padded Figure 8 Lifting Straps
Element 26’s padded figure 8 straps incorporate a neoprene cushion along the top of the wrist, which reduces the pressure point that some lifters experience with raw cotton webbing. The pad is stitched into a single junction point rather than two separate areas, which the manufacturer claims eliminates a common failure mode where two independent stitch lines separate under heavy load. The cotton and neoprene blend material feels softer against the skin than pure cotton, making these straps more comfortable for lifters who train with high volume or have sensitive wrists.
The Small size fits wrists up to 5.8 inches, and a Large option exists for thicker wrists or axle bars. Customer feedback consistently praises the quick entry and exit — about one second per strap — and the secure lock that prevents the bar from shifting during heavy deadlifts. Some users note that the padding adds a small amount of bulk, which can make the strap feel slightly less connected to the bar than non-padded designs, but the trade-off in comfort is worthwhile for many.
Where these straps fall short is versatility: the padded design and single stitch point make them less suitable for exercises beyond deadlifts, such as rows or lat pulldowns, where you might want a thinner profile. The lifetime warranty is a strong confidence signal, but the sizing must be precise — ordering the wrong size results in a strap that is either uncomfortably tight or too loose to function properly.
Why it’s great
- Neoprene padding reduces wrist pressure during heavy pulls
- Single stitch point design minimizes potential failure points
- Fast on-off speed improves workout pace
Good to know
- Padding adds bulk that some prefer to feel more bar connection
- Less versatile than non-padded straps for non-deadlift exercises
3. Grip Power Pads Figure 8 Loop Lifting Straps
Grip Power Pads positions these straps as strongman-tested gear, and the specifications back it up: the cotton webbing is rated for over 1,000 lbs, with double and cross stitching on all seams. The availability of three sizes (60 cm, 70 cm, and 80 cm) allows a much more precise fit than single-size competitors, which is critical for heavy pulls where even a centimeter of slack changes the tension profile. The black-with-white-stripe aesthetic is understated but recognizable in the gym.
Users who have tried Pioneer and Cerberus straps report that these are more comfortable because the webbing thickness hits a sweet spot — not so thick that it digs into the wrist, not so thin that it pinches. The reinforcement extends to the loop junctions, which is where many figure 8 straps eventually fail under heavy, repetitive loading. For deadlifts, rows, and heavy shrugs, these straps provide a locked-in feel that allows full focus on the lift rather than the grip.
The main downside reported by a small number of users is inconsistency in loop size between the two straps, with one side slightly larger than the other. This can be compensated for by twisting the larger loop, but for the asking price, some buyers expect tighter quality control. Additionally, the straps take a few sessions to break in fully, so they may feel stiff out of the package.
Why it’s great
- Three size options for precise wrist fit
- Triple stitching on all seams for maximum durability
- Comfortable webbing thickness suitable for long sessions
Good to know
- Occasional size inconsistency between left and right strap
- Stiffer material requires a short break-in period
4. SERIOUS STEEL FITNESS Red Figure 8 Lifting Straps
Serious Steel Fitness designs these straps with a deliberately heavier cotton webbing that feels substantially thicker than most figure 8 options. The extra material adds stiffness, which provides a more solid connection to the bar but also requires a short break-in period before the straps conform to the wrist. The reinforcement stitching is concentrated on the seam junctions, and the loops are sewn with a consistent tension that prevents stretching over time even under heavy loads like 405 lb deadlifts for reps.
The sizing chart on this model is particularly important because the straps run large. Users with wrists measuring 7.25 inches or more should choose the 70 cm version, while those with smaller wrists should size down to avoid having to twist the loop excessively. The 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors, but the build quality suggests that failure before that point is unlikely unless the straps are used on axle bars without proper sizing.
One repeated observation in user reviews is that both straps are essentially right-handed in their loop orientation, which can cause the left strap to dig into the wrist slightly. This is a minor ergonomic issue that is noticeable only during heavier sets and can be mitigated by adjusting the loop angle before locking in. For lifters who prioritize absolute security over comfort, these straps are a top contender.
Why it’s great
- Thick, durable cotton webbing that resists stretching
- Consistent stitch tension across all seam junctions
- Excellent for heavy deadlifts and strongman training
Good to know
- Runs large; careful size selection is essential
- Both straps have right-handed orientation, may affect left wrist comfort
5. IRON APE Figure 8 Straps for Deadlift
IRON APE’s figure 8 straps use a thick, heavy-duty cotton material that provides a dense, comfortable feel without requiring additional padding. The manufacturer chose to rely on the weave density alone for comfort, and this design choice pays off because the strap keeps your hand in direct contact with the bar, improving proprioception and control during the lift. The straps are available in four sizes — Medium, Intermediate, Large, and XL — making them the most size-inclusive option in this comparison, especially for lifters with larger wrists or those using axle bars.
The XL size is specifically designed for axle lifts, which is a niche that few figure 8 manufacturers address directly. Users who deadlift in the 400 lb range for volume sets report that the straps become more comfortable after three to four uses as the cotton softens slightly. The setup speed is notably faster than traditional lasso straps, and the locked-in connection allows for heavier pulls without grip failure. Some users noted a strong chemical smell when the straps were new, but this dissipates after a few sessions.
The main limitation is that the straps are essentially dedicated to deadlifts and shrugs due to the difficulty of bailing out once the loops are engaged. For lifters who want to use straps for a wider variety of pulling exercises, this design is less versatile. Sizing must be precise: if your wrist circumference is borderline between sizes, the smaller option is usually the better choice to avoid having to twist the loop.
Why it’s great
- Four size options including XL for axle bars
- Thick cotton weave provides comfort without padding
- Direct bar contact improves lift feel and control
Good to know
- Strong chemical smell during initial use
- Limited to deadlifts and shrugs due to difficulty of bail-out
FAQ
How do I measure my wrist for figure 8 straps?
Can I use figure 8 straps for pull-ups or lat pulldowns?
Why do my figure 8 straps have slack even when I tighten them?
How do I break in new figure 8 straps?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best figure 8 lifting straps winner is the Grip Power Pads because its triple-stitched construction and three size options offer the best combination of durability, fit precision, and load capacity. If you want maximum wrist comfort during high-volume sessions, grab the Element 26 Padded design. And for strongman athletes or lifters with larger wrists using axle bars, nothing beats the IRON APE with its four-size range and thick cotton webbing.