AQF Figure 8 Lifting Straps (Heavy-Duty Cotton Webbing) with Padded Wrist Cuff Support
Product description
If your grip is the weak link, these AQF Figure 8 lifting straps are built to help you move past that ceiling. On paper, they combine reinforced cotton webbing, a non-slip hand-bar grip, and shock-absorbing neoprene padding for wrist and hand comfort during heavier pulls.
They’re aimed at strength training sessions where maintaining bar control matters, especially deadlifts and other heavy pulling movements. That said, they may not feel as secure on smaller wrists, so fit is something to take seriously before you commit.
The essentials
AQF’s Figure 8 lifting straps are designed to wrap around the bar and support your wrists while reducing grip fatigue. The idea is simple: when your forearms start failing early, the straps help you keep hold so you can keep working the lift rather than constantly resetting your grip.
They’re sold as a pair and positioned as a go-to gym accessory for people who train for powerlifting, bodybuilding, and general strength. Expect them to be most useful for pulling movements like deadlifts, shrugs, rows and similar exercises where grip endurance can quickly become the limiting factor.
What you’ll notice in use
The most practical day-to-day benefit here is the grip management. The straps are described as having a non-slip hand-bar grip and a secure lock onto the barbell or dumbbell, which should help you stay steady as the set gets tougher.
You also get padded cuff support: the lining uses neoprene padding intended to absorb some shock and protect wrists and hands during heavy work. That padding won’t magically remove strain from every session, but it can make a difference when you’re doing multiple heavy sets and your wrists start to feel overworked.
A quick example: if you’re working deadlifts and you can usually hit the first few reps, but your grip starts slipping halfway through the next set, strapping in can let you keep a more consistent hold. The lift stays focused on the intended muscle groups instead of turning into an ongoing battle for grip.
Where they shine (and what they’re for)
These straps are clearly targeted at lifters who want extra assistance on heavy pulling movements. The product description mentions powerlifting and deadlifting specifically, but they’re also intended for exercises like pull-ups and rows.
They also lean towards durability: heavy-duty cotton webbing with reinforced double stitching is meant to hold up over time, including during frequent gym sessions. If you’re training hard and don’t want to baby your accessories, that matters.
Also worth noting: the design is described as ergonomic, aiming to reduce strain and lower the risk of slips. In the real world, that’s the difference between “straps that help” and “straps that annoy you mid-set”.
Things to be cautious about
Fit may be the biggest limitation. The straps are described as one size fits most, designed for medium to large wrists. If you have smaller wrists, they may feel slightly loose, which can undermine the security you’re buying them for.
They’re also not a substitute for building grip strength entirely. They can help you train heavier and longer, but if you’re trying to improve your grip endurance as a skill, you’ll still want to balance strap work with some training without them.
Key takeaways
Tech specs
- Type: Figure 8 lifting straps
- Material: Heavy-duty cotton webbing with reinforced double stitching
- Padding: Shock-absorbent neoprene lining/cuff support
- Grip: Non-slip hand-bar grip
- One size fit: Designed for medium to large wrists, may feel loose for smaller wrists
- Sold: Pair
Should you buy it?
It makes sense if you regularly hit deadlifts, shrugs, rows or other heavy pulling movements and your grip fatigue gets in the way before your muscles do. These straps are a practical way to keep training with better consistency and potentially lift a little more when normal grip fails.
You may want to skip them if your wrists are on the smaller side and you’re worried about a secure fit. Also, if you’re mainly training to build grip strength from scratch, relying on straps all the time may not be the best approach.
For most gym-goers, the value is in the comfort padding plus the idea of reducing slipping and helping you stay locked in during heavy sets.
Mini FAQ
Are these straps only for deadlifts?
No. They’re also described for powerlifting and other heavy pulling movements such as shrugs and rows, plus exercises like pull-ups.
Will the neoprene padding help with wrist comfort?
The neoprene lining is intended to provide shock absorption and protect wrists and hands during heavy lifts, so it should help with comfort during demanding sessions.
Do these straps fit everyone?
Not exactly. They’re one size and are designed for medium to large wrists, with a note that they may feel slightly loose for smaller wrists.
What are the main benefits during training?
The focus is on secure bar grip, reduced grip fatigue, and steadier wrist support so you can keep performing sets without constantly fighting your hold.
Do they come as a pair?
Yes, they’re sold as a pair.