While weightlifting belts are a regular sight in most gyms, dipping belts are a little less common.
This is a real shame, as a dip belt is a product that can push your training to another level and achieve results you would otherwise be incapable of.
That is why, today, I am going to help you find the best dip belt for your own personal needs.
I will explain everything you need to know about buying and using a dip belt, as well as showing you some of the best options in a wide range of categories.
That should give you everything you need to select the right dip belt for you and start making the most of the incredible benefits it has to offer.
Best Overall Choice
Our best overall choice for a dip belt is the option we felt does everything you could really ask of this type of product, with very few drawbacks.
Ironmind Dip Belt
The Ironmind Dip Belt is a quality item, made by one of the industry leaders, who have been producing fitness equipment since 1988.
It is regularly reviewed as one of the top belts on the market for adding weight to your dips and chins.
Its incredibly strong construction allows it to hold up to 1,000 pounds, ensuring users of all abilities will be able to maximise their potential. This strength also allows it to conveniently double as a sled belt, so can be used for pulling and dragging exercises as well.
While strength and durability don’t necessarily always go together, they certainly do here. The quality of the build ensures the belt will last for many years, which allows it to provide great value, even with a RRP of $85.95.
The Ironmind Dip Belt also doesn’t sacrifice style for strength. Its simple yet sharp looking, all nylon design will turn heads in the gym and is incredibly comfortable to wear.
It also makes it very lightweight and incredibly easy to fold and store away.
While it doesn’t come with a chain, it is possible to attach one, making it easily customisable to your own preferences. As a one size fits all product, the Ironmind Dip Belt truly is a product suitable for everyone.
Pros
- Can be used as both a dip and sled belt
- Incredibly durable
- Tremendous weight capacity
- Stylish looking
- Lightweight
- One size fits all
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t come with a chain
Best For:
- Overall
- Max weight capacity
- Versatility
User Reviews:
Skip leather and chains along with inferior materials and assembly techniques when it comes to belts for weighted chins and dips - see what happens when you combine a breakthrough design with bulletproof materials and IronMind’s signature Wicked-Strong construction, proven year after year at the World’s Strongest Man contest. Handle the heaviest weights safely and with confidence - use with or without a loading pin and carabiner. No. 1 rated dipping belt by independent reviewer. Industrial strength and engineered for heavy lifting--it handles half-ton dips and chins with confidence, the De Rigueur Dipping Belt is light, comfortable, looks sharp, and goes anywhere. Dip heavy, dip often, and get the chest, shoulders, and triceps you've been lusting after. It works equally well for weighted chins and for basic pulling and dragging.
- The belt is approximately 6.5” wide and 35” long, with a 48” strap
- Works well for weighted chins and for basic pulling and dragging
Best Budget Dip Belts
When determining the best budget dip belts, we have selected options that we feel are affordable yet still of a high quality.
This means they represent good value, as opposed to just being cheap.
1. Harbinger Polypropylene Dip Belt
The Harbinger Polypropylene Dip Belt is a great choice for beginners, as it is affordable and easy to use.
Adding and removing weight is quick and easy with its adjustable 30-inch steel chain and carabiner.
This is secured to the belt using heavy duty steel grommets, to ensure it doesn’t come apart during a set.
The belt itself is equally adjustable and is designed to be one size fits all. While it may seem a bit stiff at first, once it is broken in, users of all shapes and sizes will find a comfortable fit that provides additional back support to help you with your lifts.
Its affordable RRP of just $34.99 is due largely to being made from polypropylene, as opposed to leather.
While it is definitely a durable item, it does have a maximum weight allowance of 200 pounds, so may not be the best choice for those looking to perform seriously heavy lifts.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Easy to attach and detach weights
- Fully adjustable
- Provides back support
- Durable
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
- Chain may be too short for some people
Best For:
- Beginners
- Those on a budget
User Reviews:
Expand your weight training routine with the Harbinger Polypropylene Dip Belt. The contoured design of this belt provides back and upper body support, fitting comfortably during serious training. The 30-inch steel chain and carabiner mechanism allow weight to easily be added for chin-ups and dips helping to develop power and strength in triceps and chest. The Harbinger Polypropylene Dip Belt features thick polypropylene construction with heavy duty steel grommets to secure chain to belt for maximum durability. Adjustable, one size fits all.
- 30-inch steel chain and carabiner mechanism to easily add weight for chin-ups and dips
- Weighted dip belt helps build power and strength in triceps and chest
2. Dark Iron Fitness Leather
The Dark Iron Fitness Leather dip belt is an extremely durable item, made from reinforced, 100% genuine leather.
This is compounded by the reinforced double stitching, ensuring it is unlikely to give way, even when pushed to its 270-pound weight limit.
The circumference of the belt is 40 inches and has a heavy-duty metal buckle so it can be adjusted to fit the majority of waist sizes. Built in padding makes it extremely comfortable, without being too bulky, which is further enhanced by how lightweight the product is.
The long, textured, heavy duty nylon strap prevents weights from moving around, creating a great level of stability throughout, no matter what exercise you are performing. While the strap is not adjustable, it can be wrapped multiple times to shorten it if required.
The quick release carabiners and d-rings allow up to 6 Olympic weight plates to be quickly added and removed without any hassle.
Considering its RRP of $39.99, the Dark Iron Fitness Leather dip belt offers incredible value and is a great choice for a wide range of users.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- 100% real leather,
- Durable
- Holds up to 270 lbs.
- Easy to add and remove weights
- Affordable
Cons
- May not fit as well if you have an overly small or large waist
- Maximum weight will be too low for some
Best For:
- Value
- Those on a budget
User Reviews:
Dark Iron Fitness designs all of their equipment to be the strongest gear available, and the dip belt is no exception. Featuring reinforced double stitching on genuine leather, plush padding, and a 40 inch weight strap-this belt will hold over 270 pounds. This belt is fully adjustable to fit any waist size or height. Plush padding and strong (yet flexible) leather fits the belt snugly to every wearer, supporting the back without digging into the hips or upper thighs.
- Made of premium reinforced 100% genuine real leather
- The long strap holds up to 270 pounds
Best Dip Belt With Chain
Our criteria for the best dip belt with chain was the product that we felt offered the best all-round experience, while having a chain built into its design.
1. Spud Inc Dip Belt
The Spud Inc Dip Belt features 24 inches of chain and two quick release clips, ensuring you can add and remove weights as easily as possible.
While the chain may sound too short for some, it can comfortably hold 4 plates, so should be plenty to carry up to its 200-pound weight limit.
The belt itself is constructed from durable webbing that weighs only 3 pounds, making it incredibly lightweight and comfortable to wear.
The back pad measures 10” x 6” and is reinforced to provide support, while the sides taper in to create an ergonomic design that further adds to the comfort.
Designed for people with a waist no larger than 35 inches, it will certainly not be suitable for everyone.
Its RRP of $54.95 will also be off-putting for some, considering its limitations.
However, its reinforced stitching and lightweight material still make it ideal for exercises like dips and pull ups if you meet the specifications.
Pros
- High quality construction
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Ergonomic design
- Great for weighted pull ups and chin ups
- Chain is built into the belt
Cons
- Limited range of waist sizes
- Can only hold 4 plates / 200 pounds
Best For:
- Lightweight and comfort
User Reviews:
Spud Inc. put its own twist on the traditional leather dip belt. The Spud dip belt is made with durable webbing that will last for years and years. The Spud Inc. dip belt is designed to be easy to use and comfortable to wear for anyone. The webbing doesn't dig into your hips when you are using heavy weight like the traditional leather belt does. The dip belt comes with two large clips and 2 feet of chain, so no need to upgrade clips or the chain. Even with four 45 lb plates two feet is plenty of chain Length: From round ring to round ring is about 35"
- Made from durable webbing
- 2 feet of chain and 2 clips included
2. Rip Toned Dip Belt
The Rip Toned Dip Belt sells itself on its Clip-and-Lift system, which allows you to change weights quickly and easily, while still maintaining maximum security.
This ensures you can push it to its maximum 200-pound weight limit, without worrying about twisting and slipping, which could lead to injuries.
The clips are also designed to avoid pinching, so you don’t have to worry when changing weights at speed.
With double stitching you can be confident in the security of the belt. It is even endorsed by powerlifter Kevin Weiss, the 2014 World Champion.
The belt itself is made from breathable neoprene, so it doesn’t need breaking in like leather belts do. Combined with its wide back support and ergonomic, 6-inch contoured sides, it is a product that’s designed for maximum comfort.
The belt has a great circumference so is great for larger users, although it isn’t suitable for anyone with a waist below 26 inches.
This trend continues with the 36-inch-long chain, which gives users more clearance between the weights and their body.
Those interested in style will also enjoy the choice of 6 different colours that it is available in.
With its RRP of $30.97, the Rip Toned Dip Belt is a product that will appeal to a wide range of users.
Pros
- Extra-long, durable chain
- No need to break in
- Great for larger users
- Great range of colours
- Good value
- Comfortable, ergonomic fit
- Simple yet secure quick release weight clasp
Cons
- Chain may be too long for short users
- Limited weight capacity
Best For:
- Long chain
- Tall users
User Reviews:
The Rip Toned Dip Belt sells itself on its Clip-and-Lift system, which allows you to change weights quickly and easily, while still maintaining maximum security. This ensures you can push it to its maximum 200-pound weight limit, without worrying about twisting and slipping, which could lead to injuries. The clips are also designed to avoid pinching, so you don’t have to worry when changing weights at speed. The belt itself is made from breathable neoprene, so it doesn't need breaking in like leather belts do. Combined with its wide back support and ergonomic, 6-inch contoured sides, it is a product that’s designed for maximum comfort.
- With this pull up belt for weights you’ll throw up the most reps with the most weight of your life
- Comes equipped with an upgraded carabiner to keep you safe during your weighted lifts
Best Dip Belt With Strap
Much like the previous category, when choosing the best dip belt with strap we wanted a product with an all-round great performance, only it had to have a strap built in.
Hypeletics Weighted Dip Belt
The Hypeletics Weighted Dip Belt is made from high-grade neoprene, with a comfortable inner pad and reinforced stitching.
This makes it lightweight without sacrificing durability, allowing it to provide comfort, while still supporting loads of over 300 pounds.
The 40-inch, heavy duty weight strap is connected with steel D-rings and is long enough to comfortably hold 6 Olympic weight plates with room left to spare.
The carabiners are also made of solid steel, although they are a little small, meaning changing the weight can be a little fiddly. Available in 2 different sizes, both of which are adjustable with a buckle, it is suitable for users with waist sizes ranging from 23 to 40 inches.
This makes it a particularly good choice for those with an extremely small or large waist, or anyone worried about getting the snuggest fit possible.
Reinforced, 7 inch back padding and waist clips that can be linked with a carabiner also allow it to double as a squat belt.
There is even an extra strap to further tighten it around the waist.
This means you are essentially getting two belts in one, which is great value for a product with a RRP of $34.97.
With a 30-day money back guarantee and lifetime replacement warranty, you can purchase the Hypeletics Weighted Dip Belt with no risk and complete confidence.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable at all weights
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Doubles as a squat belt
- 30-day money back guarantee and Lifetime replacement warranty
- Great range of waist sizes
- Good value
- Can hold a good amount of weight and plates
Cons
- Some would prefer a chain to a nylon strap
- Adjusting the weight can be fiddly
Best For:
- Comfort
- Risk free purchase
User Reviews:
40 inch Strap Built for Heavy Weights Replaces Chain - Padded Neoprene for Weighted Pull ups & Belt Squat - Weight Lifting Dip Belts with Chain
- Made with high-grade neoprene, reinforced stitching, very comfortable inner pad, steel carabiners and D-rings
- This belt is designed by athletes who understand the weightlifter's needs
Best Nylon Dip Belt
We again wanted a belt with good overall performance when selecting the best nylon dip belt.
However, this time we also paid extra attention to price and comfort, as these are two of the major selling points nylon dip belts are known for.
Dmoose Fitness Dip Belt
The Dmoose Fitness Dip Belt is an adjustable, one size fits all option.
It is made from a heavy-duty nylon that breathes and won’t absorb odours, which is available in 5 different colours, including black, blue, grey, grey camo, and the unique American Pride design.
The belt is 6 inches wide in the middle and 4 inches at the sides, creating an ergonomic design that is ideal for comfort. Its double stitching ensures it is durable, providing a 225-pound weight limit that is ideal for bodybuilding.
Its 36-inch heavy duty steel chain features a hook and loop closure system that is convenient for quickly adjusting the weight.
Meanwhile, the large, extra heavy-duty D-rings allow you to swap to different chains or straps of your choice.
Featuring a RRP of just $29.99, it is one of the best value dipping belts on the market.
With a lifetime satisfaction guarantee, you can have complete confidence in your purchase, knowing a refund or replacement is available if required.
Pros
- Long chain
- Chain is changeable
- Comfortable, ergonomic design
- Lifetime guarantee
- Great value
- Great range of designs
Cons
- May be sharp edges on the chain
- Stiff at first
- Low upper weight limit
Best For:
- CrossFit
- Changing chains / straps easily
User Reviews:
DMOOSE amazing weight lifting dip belts consist of double D rings and a heavy-duty chain long enough to support heavy weight while ensuring maximum protection for your sensitive areas. The highly adjustable belt helps you add or take away weight easily and ensures a convenient workout.
- Ideal for weightlifting, bodybuilding, pullups and general fitness
- Premium Dip Belt with Steel Chain and Extra Heavy D rings
How To Use A Dip Belt
A dip belt is worn around the waist like a traditional weightlifting belt, only it isn’t designed to be skin-tight when worn.
You will, however, still need to ensure a snug fit that won’t slip around. The two sides will be joined by a strap or chain in the middle.
This will be looped through the weight you are planning to use, whether that be dumbbells, weight plates, kettlebells etc, and secured with a fastener, such as a carabiner. That said, the actual fastening mechanism will vary from model to model.
As all belts will vary slightly, make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions on everything from the max weight allowance to the best way to secure it before use.
You can then use your dip belt to add extra weight to bodyweight exercises such as pull ups, chin ups, and dips.
Some of the sturdier options can also double as a sled belt to be used for dragging and pulling, or even a traditional weight belt, to help give you support while you lift.
However you choose to use it, make sure to practice good form at all times.
As you will undoubtedly be using it to perform a heavy exercise, there is an increased risk of injury with the vast majority of things you do with it.
How To Choose A Dip Belt
When choosing a dip belt, there are a number of factors to take into consideration in order to ensure you find the best dip belt for you.
Price
The price of a dip belt can vary dramatically, from as low as $30 to upwards of $100.
When selecting a price, you need to make sure you settle on a number that you are comfortable with, otherwise you won’t be as happy with your purchase.
You also need to ensure you don’t sacrifice quality for price, as you want your dip belt to be good value as opposed to just cheap.
Material
The range of materials dip belts are available in primarily includes things such as leather, neoprene, and nylon.
Leather belts are durable, have a good weight capacity, don’t tend to absorb odours, and often provide the most support. On the flip side, they are often the most expensive options and can be stiff and painful until broken in.
Nylon belts have many of the same qualities as leather belts, as they are strong, durable, and offer a good weight capacity.
They are also usually much more affordable, comfortable and storable. The drawbacks are that they don’t provide as much support and are likely to absorb odours over time.
Neoprene belts are the lightest and most affordable dipping belts on the market.
They are incredibly comfortable and don’t tend to absorb odours. Unfortunately, they normally won’t have a weight capacity or level of support anywhere near the other two choices.
With so much choice on offer, making sure you select the correct material, based on your own needs, is essential to the success of the product.
Chain vs. Strap
Choosing between a chain or a strap on a dip belt is largely a matter of personal preference.
While there are a few differences in how they perform, this is an area where you will have to think a little harder about what you truly want from the belt.
A chain is easy to loop through the weights and is strong, with no possibility of fraying and tearing.
Many people also prefer the aesthetics of a chain. The main drawbacks are that the chain can sometimes have sharp edges and it is possible for the weights to slide about during exercise.
A strap creates more friction, so it can be harder to add weights to. However, this same friction can also stop the weights from moving about as you train.
They are strong and durable, although slightly less so than a chain. They also have the possibility of fraying, however there is no risk of sharp edges.
Size
Dip belts tend to range in size from around 20 inches up to about 40 inches. A dip belt is designed to be snug, yet not skin-tight.
Making sure you choose the correct size isn’t just important in terms of whether or not you can use it.
If it doesn’t fit correctly, it won’t work as intended and could potentially lead to injury.
Chain/Strap Length
The length of the chain or strap on a dip belt will determine a number of factors, such as how close to both the user and the floor the weights will hang, as well as how much weight can be attached.
It is therefore essential to consider both your height and the amount of weight you plan to attach to the belt before purchasing it.
Otherwise, you may find your experience to be uncomfortable or inadequate.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a dip belt can range anywhere from 200 pounds to over 1000 pounds.
This means it is essential to check the weight capacity before buying a belt, to ensure it is capable of handling the loads you intend to use it for.
This is especially true if you are hoping to double your belt up as a squat belt or a sled belt, as using it for exercises it isn’t suited for can easily lead to breakages and injuries.
Conclusion
Dip belts are a fabulous piece of weightlifting equipment that should be a lot more common in gyms than they currently are.
They give you the ability to train beyond a level that is naturally possible and achieve the maximum results your body is capable of.
The Ironmind Dip Belt is our top choice as it really leaves very little to be desired.
With an insanely high weight capacity and ability to double up as a sled belt, even the most advanced trainers will be able to use this belt to help them progress.
That said, if there is anything putting you off of purchasing it, such as the price for example, the other options on this list are all among the market leaders in their own categories.
Whichever you decide is right for you, you can be sure it will be a vital piece of your training routine for years to come.