When it comes to lifting gear, wrist wraps are a gym bag must-have! They are worn around the wrist joint to help add compression and stabilize it without limiting its range of motion. This is extremely helpful when you're pushing heavy weights, like shoulder presses and bench presses. So, instead of your wrist giving in because of the weight being too heavy, you'll be able to push heavier weights for a few more reps!
That is the beauty of wrist wraps! However, choosing the right type of wrist wrap may be a challenge... there are three types to choose from and each type can help your workouts depending on your training program and fitness goals. That said, we're going to tell you all about the different types to ensure you choose the best wrist wrap for you!
Wrist Wraps
First up on our list is the traditional wrist wrap! These are probably the ones you've seen the most at the gym because they are simple yet effective. This type of wrist wrap features a durable piece of material (typically polyester) with a closing mechanism, usually a strong velcro strap. They also may feature a thumb loop on the side for anyone who wants additional security.
They're best for any heavy weight lifters because they can easily be put on and taken off when needed. So, bodybuilders, powerlifters, and avid gym-goers can benefit from a traditional wrist wrap.
We suggest looking for ones that feature a strong durable material, strong velcro, thumb loop, and long enough to help provide the perfect wrist compression every time you need it. A great example is our very own Wrist Wraps 2.0! They are designed to be long, thick, and stiff to create the wrist support needed to help you push heavier weights without your wrist joint giving in. They are made from a durable polyester blend, feature strong velcro, and are 19" long and 3" wide. The length makes it easier for you to wrap around your wrist until you get the desired tension needed for your lifts. They are truly the best wrist wraps for your heavy push days!
EZ Grip Combo
This type of wrist wrap combines the classic wrist wrap we've mentioned above, except it features an extended leather pad. The wrist wrap protects your wrists and provides support while the leather pads ensure a tight grip on the heavy barbell. However, don't mistake this for lifting straps! Lifting straps help reduce grip fatigue, while the EZ grip combo is only designed to help you get a tighter grip on the barbell so you can securely lift it.
This type of wrist wrap is ideal for powerlifters, but also for lifters with weak grip strength. Although every lifter should work on improving their grip strength, sometimes a strong grip isn't enough for extremely heavy lifts. Therefore these wrist wraps can be ideal for powerlifters or anyone performing heavy maximal lifts.
Lifting Hook Combo
This type of wrist wrap is similar to the EZ grip combo, but instead of a leather pad, there is a lifting hook. So, it's a traditional wrist wrap with a steel hook that has plastic coating to protect the barbell from being damaged.
This combination actually works more as a lifting strap. They protect your wrists and support it, but the hook helps protect your grip from slipping so you can lift the heaviest of weights! This lifting hook combo helps take the tension off your joints and improve your grip strength to allow you to lift more weight without having to worry about resetting. However, unlike traditional wrist wraps which are used for exclusively pushing exercises, lifting hook combo are best utilized for pulling exercises, like deadlifts and barbell rows.
The lifting hook combo is ideal for powerlifting and Strongman workouts where personal records are set on a weekly basis.
Is there a winner?
There really isn't one that is better than the other, it all depends on what your training styles and goals are. EZ grip combo and lifting hook combo wrist wraps are best for powerlifters who want a combination that helps provide wrist and grip support. While traditional wrist wraps are best for all types of lifters, from avid lifters to powerlifters! They're simple, effective, and used for pushing exercises only.
We hope this will help you make a better and more informed decision on what type of wrist wrap is best for you. If traditional wrist wraps seem like the best fit, look no further than UPPPER Wrist Wraps!
Why choose UPPPER Wrist Wraps 2.0?
Aside from looking stylish and coming in various colors, they're designed to help you push heavier weights for longer. All of our Wrist Wraps are made with a thick and strong material that gives your wrist maximum support needed to stabilize it. Plus, they are 19" long so you can easily wrap around your wrist to the desired tension adjustment, feature strong velcro, and a thumb loop for maximal security.
Train longer and protect your wrists with UPPPER Wrist Wraps 2.0.