Types of lifting straps: lasso, figure 8, and Olympic straps

Not every lifting strap works the same. The shape determines how quickly you put them on, how much grip you get and how easily you release them. If you choose the wrong type for your training, then your gear works against you instead of with you.

In this guide we place the three most common types of lifting straps side by side (lasso, figure 8 and Olympic) with the pros and cons, an overview table and the type that fits your lifts.

Lasso lifting straps: the all-rounder

Lasso straps are the most used and versatile type. They are long bands with a loop at the end, creating an adjustable ring that closes around your wrist. Then you wrap the loose band around the bar.

For whom: almost everyone. From deadlifts and rows to pull-ups and lat pulldowns.

Advantages: versatile, adjustable, easy to do and suitable for almost every pulling exercise.

Disadvantage: with an explosive miss you might stay stuck a bit longer than with an Olympic strap.

Doubtful which type you should have, then lasso straps are the right choice nine times out of ten. the right answer.

Figure 8 lifting straps for maximum grips

Figure 8 straps have the shape of the number 8. You put your wrist through one loop, wrap the band around the bar and pull your hand through the other loop. The weight is therefore almost fixed, letting go is almost impossible.

For whom: powerlifters and lifters who train purely on maximum, static pulls, like heavy rack pulls and deadlift top sets.

Advantages: the most secure, fixed grip of all types. Almost no chance of slipping.

Disadvantage: less versatile and you let go of the bar less quickly, not ideal for dynamic work.

Olympic straps for fast lifts

Olympic straps are shorter and thinner. They are designed for Olympic weightlifting, where you need to switch grip quickly and the bar must be able to release, for example in the snatch or clean.

For whom: weightlifters and those who train a lot with fast, technical lifts.

Advantages: fast to let go, minimally restrictive.

Disadvantage: offer less grip support in pure, heavy strength training.

The three types in one overview

Type	Grip	Versatility	For whom
Lasso	High	Very high	Most lifters
Figure 8	Maximum	Low	Powerlifters, heavy pulls
Olympic	Average	Average	Weightlifters

Different materials in lifting straps

Besides the shape the material determines how your strap feels and how long it lasts: cotton is comfortable and all-round, leather lasts long, nylon is stiff and durable.

Keep it simple:

Do you mainly train strength and muscle mass with deadlifts, rows, and pull work? Choose lasso straps.
Are you a powerlifter focused on maximal, static pulls? Consider figure 8 straps.
Do you do Olympic weightlifting with snatches and cleans? Then Olympic straps make more sense.

For most serious strength athletes, a good lasso strap is the right choice. The Lifting Straps from Thor Athletics are lasso straps: premium cotton with neoprene wrist lining for your daily work, and an Extra Grip version with rubber coating for when the grip really needs to hold.

Want to know how to put them on? Read how to use lifting straps. If you’re unsure between straps and grips, check out the difference between lifting grips and straps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between lasso and figure 8 lifting straps?

A lasso strap you wrap around the bar and are versatile for almost every pulling exercise. A figure Figure 8 straps lock the weight almost directly to your wrist and provide maximum grip, but is less versatile and releases less quickly.

Which lifting straps are best for deadlifting?

For most lifters: lasso straps. If you train purely for maximal deadlifts and rack pulls as a powerlifters, figure 8 straps can offer a bit more security.

Are figure 8 straps better than lasso straps?

Not better, just otherwise. They provide more grip on static lifts but are less versatile. For for general strength training, a lasso strap is more practical.