Best Wrist Wraps for Heavy Bench Press Support
I have been getting some wrist pain when I bench over 100kg and I think it is time to invest in some proper wrist wraps. I have been looking at the SBD stiff wraps and the Titan Signature Series but I am not sure which length or stiffness to go for.
I want something that is going to provide a lot of support but I also do not want them to be so stiff that I cannot even move my hand. I have heard that the 24 inch wraps are a good middle ground for most people. I am also curious if they are worth using for squats as well to help with wrist positioning.
What wrist wraps are you all using for your heavy sets? Do you prefer the very stiff ones or something with a bit more stretch? I want to make sure my wrists are protected so I can keep increasing my bench without having to worry about nagging injuries.
Hey LondonStrong, definitely time to get some wraps if you are feeling pain. I have used both SBD and Titan, and personally, I lean towards the SBD stiff wraps for heavy benching. They offer incredible support. Just make sure you do not wrap them too tight for every set, only your heaviest work. 💪
jimmywells1988
I have heard great things about the SBD wraps from a few people at my gym too. The general consensus is they are worth the investment for serious lifters. Have you looked into Inzer wraps at all? They are another solid option for competition-grade support. 🤔
Alexandoy
Beyond just wraps, how is your wrist mobility and forearm strength? Sometimes pain can also be a sign of a weakness there, not just needing external support. Do you do any wrist specific warm-ups or exercises?
I am a huge fan of the Gangsta Wraps from Mark Bell's Sling Shot. They are super stiff and have a great thumb loop. I have found them to be more durable than some other brands I have tried over the years. Plus, the name just feels right for powerlifting! 😂
For anyone starting out with wraps, remember the length matters. Longer wraps give more support but can restrict wrist movement more. Shorter ones are good for general training. SBD has different lengths, so consider that too.
I have been using wrist wraps for years, and my go-to has always been the Rogue wraps. They are not as stiff as SBD, but they are a great balance of support and comfort for most of my heavy lifts. Plus, they are a bit more budget-friendly. 👍
Do not forget about proper grip technique on the bench. Sometimes wrist pain can be exacerbated by how you are holding the bar. Ensure the bar is low in your palm, directly over your forearm bones, not high near your fingers. That alone can make a huge difference even with wraps. 🤯
ArnoldS
I second the Mark Bell Sling Shot wraps. I have used them for powerlifting meets, and they provide exceptional support. My wrists feel locked in, which gives me a lot more confidence under heavy loads. Highly recommend them for serious lifters. 🔥
If you are in the UK, Strength Shop also makes some good quality wraps that are often a bit cheaper than SBD but still offer great support. I have their 'Heavy' wraps, and they are brilliant. Worth a look if you want to save a few quid. 💰
I am a big believer in wrist strengthening exercises. Farmers walks, dead hangs, and wrist curls can do wonders for wrist stability. Wraps are great, but a strong foundation is always best. Do not neglect that prehab work!
For warm-ups, try some wrist rotations both clockwise and counter-clockwise, gentle stretches with your palm up and down, and light resistance band work for wrist flexion and extension. Just a few minutes can make a difference. 🏃♀️
I find that longer wraps (e.g., 90cm) are best for max effort lifts. They provide maximum rigidity. For lighter accessory work or warm-ups, I do not even bother with wraps, or I use shorter, less stiff ones.
Consider the material too. Cotton wraps are more flexible, nylon/elastic blends are stiffer. SBD stiff wraps are known for their very robust elastic blend, giving that firm support. Quality material equals longevity. 💯
For wrist pain, also check your elbow flare. If your elbows are flaring out too much, it can put extra stress on the wrists. Tuck those elbows slightly! It helps with both shoulder and wrist health. Something to think about. 🤔