Figure 8 Straps vs Normal Straps: Everything You Need to Know

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 are important for protecting your wrists and keeping them 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.

Figure 8 straps offer a thick, sturdy grip, making them ideal for deadlifts. Closed-loop straps, also known as lasso straps, or 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’. It allows you to slide your hand into the upper loop, make your way around the bar, and then grip the lower half of the strap, creating a strong grip.

Normal straps, otherwise known as ‘closed-loop straps’, are an alternative to the figure 8 straps. They feature a signature closed-loop, which allows your hand to be locked in.

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. Exercises like deadlifts are the ideal option for figure 8 lifting straps.

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 is rather time-consuming.

The closed-loop 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, the figure 8 straps reign supreme. They offer a far greater range of grip compared to the closed-loop version. 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 closed-loop 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. 

2. Comfort

While the metrics for comfort change from person to person, it’s safe to say that closed-loop 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 closed-loop 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

Warm Body Cold Mind Figure 8 Lifting Straps 

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.

Warm Body Cold Mind Lasso Lifting Straps

These Straps are a great set of Olympic lifting straps, otherwise known as closed-loop 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. Straps take the tension off your CNS (Central Nervous System) and help you lift roughly 20-25% more than what you can currently lift. 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 properly secure your wrist, in order to prevent it from getting injured. 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. This we’ll keep your joints safe.

Can You Use Figure 8 Straps In Powerlifting?

Yes, figure 8 straps can be used in powerlifting. You can increase your compound lifts by significant margins using figure 8 straps. While the difference doesn’t pan out overnight, it certainly helps you maximize your powerlifting potential. It has great usability for the heavy lifts (such as deadlifts), as well as other supplementary lifts. 

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, closed-loop 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:

• How to Use Straps for Deadlift
• Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps
• How to Put On Lifting Straps
• Lifting Grip Straps
• Leather Lifting Straps
• Wrist Wraps Vs Wrist Straps

References:

1. 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