Dip Belt Buyer's Guide
Although most dip belts look alike, the little differences from one to another can mean a lot in the weight room. You want a belt which grow with you and your evolving workout routine, made with a material to complement your lifting style, and fits comfortably around your waist by itself as well as with some weight hooked on. Plainly put, a good dip belt will hold the amount of weight you need and the connection system to keep it securely in place. Lastly, this isn't a time to be a cheapskate because paying a higher price means a longer lasting belt with a no-nonsense manufacturer's warranty.
Dip Belt Types
Nylon Dip Belt
Nylon dip belts have been growing in popularity because of their snug fit and their surprising weight capacity. These thin profile dip belts made with this flexible material wrap around the hips better and can safely accommodate weights in the hundreds of pounds.
Leather Dip Belt
Before nylon hit the scene, leather dip belts were the standard and many weight lifters still swear by them as they support more than enough weight for most individuals. Leather can endure all kinds of wear and tear while offering a comfortable fit because they're usually padded with faux sheep wool or similar material.
What to Look For
Fitting
Most belts will be a “one size fits all” which is perfect for most individuals unless you have a slighter frame. If you’re more on the skinny side, there are a few adjustable belts out there which will offer you a comfortable fit. It’s always a good idea to try the belt on with a little weight attached before you make a final decision.
How Does the Weight Connect?
With most dip belts, the weight will hang from a chain connecting at either one or both sides; preferably it will connect on both sides using a carabineer connecting to D-rings sewn into the belt. This makes it easier to dump the weight at a moment’s notice or add and subtract weight between sets. Certain dip belts are specially designed to connect to weight pins and there are a few rarely encountered belts out there with fabric straps used to secure the weight plates.
Weight Capacity
In general, a dip belts weight capacity isn’t a huge issue unless you’re in need of something which can handle extreme weight loads. Most belts will support enough weight for the average lifter, but always check the weight capacity regardless; the last thing you need is to buy a belt you’ll grow out of shortly after purchase.
Price and Warranty
Dip belts are an item which follow the rule of “you get what you pay for” to a T. The more expensive the belt is, the more likely it will be the only belt you ever need to buy. Even if a superior quality belt does break on you, it will likely have a decent manufacturer’s warranty to protect your investment.