Figure 8 Straps vs Normal Straps: Everything You Need to Know
Author: Ihor Shymechko (26 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience)
Reviewed by: Jacek Szymanowski (M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology, Sports Nutritionist)
Lifting straps are often subject to tremendous debates on the internet, making it rather confusing if you’re looking to pick a pair up for yourself. If you’re a proficient lifter, chances are that you’ve been lifting pretty remarkable amounts of weight.
The heavier you lift, the harder it gets to have a firm grip on the bar. This is where lifting straps come into the mix.
Lifting straps keep your wrists stable while moving heavy poundage. If you suffer from weak wrists or poor grip strength, lifting straps would make a stellar addition to your gym bag. In this article, we’re going to figure out which straps are perfect for you, so that it can help inform your purchase.
The difference between figure 8 straps and lasso straps is their shape, grip, and degree of comfort that they offer. The figure 8 straps are shaped like the number ‘8’, and do not come with a velcro adjustment.
Figure 8 straps offer a thick, sturdy grip, making them ideal for deadlifts. Lasso straps, also known as Olympic straps, are lighter and more comfortable than figure 8 straps. They’re better suited for Olympic lifts where the eccentric motion is not important.
What Are Figure 8 Straps and Normal Straps?
As the name suggests, figure 8 straps, also known as double loop straps, are lifting straps shaped in the form of the number ‘8’. To use them, slide your hand through the first loop, wrap the strap around the bar, and then slide your hand through the second loop before gripping the bar.
This method creates a secure, strong grip by effectively locking both your hands and the bar within the strap’s loops.
Normal straps, otherwise known as lasso straps, are an alternative to the figure 8 straps and they’re the most common option.
Figure 8 Lifting Straps vs Normal Straps: Which One is Perfect for You?
As mentioned earlier, figure 8 straps are characterized by their signature number ‘8’ shape. They provide you with a strong, supportive grip by looping all the way around the bar, and connecting to your hands.
This will allow you to stay in control of the weight and remain connected to the bar at all times. Figure 8 lifting straps are an ideal choice for deadlifts.
This is because the grip that it provides is perfect for an exercise where being in full control of the weight during concentric and eccentric motion is crucial. This prohibits you from releasing the bar quickly, and the process of unstrapping yourself from the bar requires a barbell being on the floor.
The lasso straps, on the other hand, provide lesser grip, but greater functionality in terms of usage during Olympic weightlifting. This is due to the fact that Olympic lifts require a power motion, and do not focus on the eccentric lowering of the weight, thus allowing you to lose the bar and eject safely.
1. Grip
In terms of grip, depends on the exercise of course but for deadlift and pull from the floor the figure 8 straps reign supreme. Their ability to wrap around the bar and intertwine in the shape of an ‘8’ means a greater grip, superior safety, and increased comfort for the lifter.
If you’re someone who deadlifts intensively, the figure 8 straps might be a perfect choice. The lasso straps, however, can not boast such an intense grip. While they do offer added support and stability, the grip strength is often weaker, compared to the figure 8 straps.
They can still assist you on exercises that you would otherwise use the figure 8 straps for, but not to the same extent.
However for the majority of lifters the amount of grip support regular straps offer is often more than enough to make the lift a limiting factor not the grip itself.
2. Comfort
While the metrics for comfort change from person to person, it’s safe to say that lasso lifting straps edge the figure 8 straps in this department. They’re lighter and thinner, while also covering less of your hands, compared to the figure 8 straps.
Some people prefer a thicker grip, making the figure 8 straps a better option, but most others like a lightweight and convenient option, this proving lasso straps to be the best option for you, if comfort is key.
How to Use Figure 8 Straps?
- Take your pair of figure 8 straps and begin with a singular piece
- Hold it vertically, forming the number ‘8’
- Place your hand through the upper loop
- Carefully, take this hand down to a barbell and place it over it.
- Bring the underside of the strap around, and place your hand through the loop.
- Secure the grip and adjust for comfort.
Top Rated Lifting Straps and Figure 8 Straps
Recommended Figure 8 Straps
Warm Body Cold Mind Figure 8 Lifting Straps
- Serving Size:
- Size: S, M, L
- Material: cotton, elastane
- Color: black, crimson, yellow, white, camo, chess
These WBCM figure 8 lifting straps are perfectly fit for weightlifting, powerlifting, and other workouts. This model comes with two options that are made of cotton and elastane with thick neoprene padding around the wrist. These lifting straps provide a secure and tight grip, so you don’t have to worry about the barbell slipping off your hands.
When wearing them, you still have enough space to move your hand and twist the strap for a tighter grip and make the bar closer to the palm. With these figure 8 straps, you can sharpen your technique in deadlifts, shrugs, rows as well other exercises.
Recommended Lasso Straps
WBCM Lasso Lifting Wrist Straps
- Type: lasso
- Size Options: One size
- Length: 22”
- Width: 1.6”
- Thickness: 0.24’’
- Material: Cotton, Neoprene
- Padding (yes/no): Yes (soft neoprene)
- Weight Capacity: 770 lbs
- Color: Black, red
These Straps are a great set of Olympic lifting straps, otherwise known as lasso straps, or in this case, lasso straps. They’re made of cotton and designed to assist you in your weightlifting, powerlifting, bodybuilding, and functional training endeavors. They’re a great product for a fair price, for powerlifters and bodybuilders alike.
These straps boast the ability to sustain up to 770lbs (350kgs)! They provide protection against injuries, alongside hassle-free use and removal. The strong double-stitched fabric creates a lightweight, but sturdy pair of straps.
FAQ
Can You Deadlift More With Figure 8 Straps?
Absolutely. If you’ve maxed out your deadlift, or you’re suffering from a plateau, and simply can’t seem to push beyond what you’re currently lifting, straps are exactly what you need. Therefore, if you’re trying to maximize your full potential, invest in a good pair of straps.
How Tight Should Lifting Straps Be?
The goal of lifting straps is to reduce the need for grip strength and allow you to lift heavier weights without your grip being the limiting factor. Your aim should be to tighten your straps to the extent where your wrists are stable and secure. A Pro tip is to increase the tightness as you increase the weight you’re lifting.
As far as how much you need to tighten them – we can’t help you there. You’ll need to experiment a little to find your sweet spot and the right tightness – and remember if it does feel sketchy, probably it is sketchy. This we’ll keep your joints safe.
Can You Use Figure 8 Straps In Powerlifting?
No, wrist straps are not allowed in powerlifting competitions, so you won’t be able to use them while you compete. However, you can use them during training for certain exercises like most powerlifters do.
Conclusion
To conclude, the world of straps is a rather complex one, that requires time and research on your end, to buy the best product for your needs. While figure 8 straps offer greater protection and grip, lasso straps can be ejected sooner.
They’re also lighter and more comfortable. Your goal as a weightlifter or powerlifter should be to find the perfect product to make your workouts optimal for your growth and development.
Also read:
References:
- Effect of Lifting Straps on Peak Force During an Isometric Mid- thigh Pull // University of Central Florida STARS: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1872&context=honorstheses.
- All photos are made by Torokhtiy Media team.
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Coach, PRO Olympic Weightlifter
Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg, C&J – 240 kg
Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.
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Certified Nutritionist, M.Sc.Eng. Biotechnology Performance Architect, Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Experience: 20 years
Best Results: Squat – 200kg, Deadlift – 240kg, OH press – 100kg
With over 30 years of fighting experience, specialization in nutrition coaching for athletes, and expertise in metabolic health and dietary strategies, Jacek offers a comprehensive approach to optimizing your performance and well-being. Backed by a Master of Science degree in Biotechnology, Jacek remains at the forefront of scientific advancements, ensuring that his coaching is always evidence-based and up-to-date.
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