A weightlifting belt may not have a long list of features, but it's a valuable tool that can help keep you safe, stable, and supported during your training sessions. As a longtime rugby player and strength athlete, the author has been using a powerlifting model from EliteFTS that's withstood plenty of punishment over the last eight years without sustaining any tears. However, even though investing in a fully leather belt can be expensive, there is an affordable option that combines the stability of a leather belt with the flexibility of a nylon one.
In this review, you'll learn how a company started by a doctor of physical therapy and a US Army veteran developed a cost-effective solution to the problem of having to select between two different styles of belts.
Key Takeaways
- The Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt pairs premium leather with high-quality nylon to give you the best of both belt material worlds, as the former offers superior stability and the latter adds extra comfort.
- The velcro strap and self-locking buckle system keep you well-secured so you can safely perform deadlifts, squats, and other heavy lifts with more confidence.
- This self-locking weightlifting belt is versatile enough to be used by powerlifters training to hit PRs to CrossFit enthusiasts crushing dynamic Olympic lifts like power cleans and snatches.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Pros
- Element 26 offers this hybrid weightlifting belt in five different sizes, which means most lifters should have no trouble finding one that fits comfortably around their belly buttons.
- The self-locking mechanism allows for smooth transitions between sets. You can easily unlock the buckle and adjust the strap to take the belt off while you rest, and it stays securely in place when you're ready to lift.
- At around $60, this versatile weightlifting belt represents excellent value.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Cons
- A fully leather belt will provide superior stability to this hybrid version from Element 26.
- While the self-locking buckle was comfortable to use, a belt with a lever buckle system may provide an extra layer of assurance and security.
- The uniform four-inch width of the Element 26 Hybrid Belt could cause discomfort for some athletes.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Rating
The weight belt world includes a wide variety of build materials, designs, and uses. Our Breaking Muscle team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit loyalists, and strength and conditioning coaches have collectively performed thousands of reps of squats, deadlifts, and other exercises over the years wearing dozens of different weight belts. After training with them extensively, they used a proprietary scoring system to rank them based on factors such as design, durability, and versatility.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt In-Depth Review
Price and Value
Available for $59.97, this hybrid weightlifting belt represents excellent value, as you could easily spend double that amount for a fully leather belt.
Design and Colors
The six-millimeter thick, four-inch-wide profile of the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt is well-suited for performing various exercises. The self-locking buckle and velcro strap system provide security and peace of mind. However, the belt is only available in black, which lacks visual appeal.
Construction and Materials
Element 26 used high-quality materials, including 100% premium leather and nylon, to build this durable hybrid weightlifting belt. The heavy-duty stitching and self-locking buckle with velcro strap give two layers of protection during workouts.
Adjustability
The velcro strap and self-locking buckle system allow for easy tightening, loosening, and removal of the belt, making it suitable for various workout transitions.
Versatility
The hybrid leather-nylon design allows this belt to be used for a wide range of training, from powerlifting to CrossFit-style workouts. It provides adequate lower back support for heavy lifts while retaining enough flexibility for more dynamic movements.
Durability
The premium leather construction and lifetime warranty from Element 26 suggest this belt is built to last, earning it high marks for durability.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt vs. 2POOD
The 2POOD nylon lifting belt is a strong contender in the sub-$100 category, offering versatility and value. However, if you prioritize maximum support for heavy lifting, the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt is the better choice.
Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Customer Reviews
The Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt has received widespread praise, earning a 4.6-star rating on Amazon. Customers appreciate the user-friendly design and combination of rigid leather and comfortable nylon, although some noted the belt's thickness as a potential drawback.
Final Verdict
Based on its high-quality construction, excellent versatility, and reasonable price, the Element 26 Hybrid Weightlifting Belt is a worthwhile investment for athletes and home gym owners looking for a single belt that can handle a variety of training styles.