EQUIPMENT · 5 min read ·
Lever Belt Thickness: 10mm vs 13mm — Which Should You Choose?
Lever belts are a favourite for squats and deadlifts because they close to the same tightness every time. The biggest choice after that is thickness. Here is how 10mm and 13mm belts compare, and how a lever belt differs from a velcro belt.
Why choose a lever belt?
A lever buckle snaps shut to a set tightness and opens in one motion, so there is no fiddling with prongs between heavy sets. You adjust it once and it closes the same way every session.
10mm lever belts
10mm is the most popular thickness for general strength training. It is stiff enough to brace hard against on squats and deadlifts, while usually breaking in faster and feeling more comfortable than thicker belts.
The FIT KULTURE Lever Lifting Belt is 4" wide and 10mm thick, in suede leather with a stainless steel black lever buckle and 10 adjustment holes.
13mm lever belts
13mm belts are very stiff and are mostly chosen by experienced powerlifters handling near-maximal weights. They take longer to break in and can feel restrictive for bending movements or general gym work.
Lever belt vs velcro belt
Velcro (nylon) belts are light, flexible and quick to adjust, which suits CrossFit-style or mixed training. A leather lever belt is much firmer, giving you more to brace against on heavy squats and deadlifts. If your training is centred on heavy compound lifts, a lever belt is usually the better fit.
How to size a lever belt
Measure around your waist where you will wear the belt — roughly at the belly button — over the top you train in. Use that measurement rather than your trouser size, and check our size guide before ordering.
Which should you choose?
For most lifters, a 4" wide, 10mm lever belt is the sensible choice: stiff enough for heavy days, comfortable enough to use every session. Prefer a prong buckle you can adjust between lifts? Compare it with our leather lifting belt, or read the full guide to choosing a lifting belt.
Frequently asked questions
Is 10mm thick enough for powerlifting?
Many lifters train and compete in 10mm belts. 13mm is a preference for some advanced lifters rather than a requirement.
Do lever belts need breaking in?
Leather belts soften with use. Wearing it for a few sessions helps it shape to your body.
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