Many lifters confuse a dip belt with a weightlifting belt; but they serve completely different purposes.

If you’re training seriously, choosing the wrong belt can limit your performance or waste your money.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What a dip belt is

• What a weightlifting (lever) belt is

• The key differences

• Which one you actually need

• And when to use each

What Is a Dip Belt?

A dip belt is used to add weight to bodyweight exercises.

It typically includes:

• A belt worn around your waist

• A chain or strap

• Plates attached between your legs

Used For:

• Weighted dips

• Weighted pull-ups

• Weighted chin-ups

A dip belt does not support your core.
Its only purpose is to hold extra weight during bodyweight movements.

What Is a Weightlifting Belt?

A weightlifting belt (lever belt) is designed to support your core during heavy compound lifts.

It wraps tightly around your waist and helps you:

• Increase intra-abdominal pressure

• Protect your lower back

• Stay stable during heavy lifts

• Lift more safely

Weightlifting belts are commonly used for:

• Squats

• Deadlifts

• Overhead presses

• Heavy rows

At HIT N FIT, we specialize in lever belts designed for serious strength training and powerlifting.

👉 Shop 10mm Lever Belts
👉 Shop 13mm Lever Belts

Dip Belt vs Weightlifting Belt: Key Differences

1. Purpose

Dip Belt: Adds weight to bodyweight exercises.

Weightlifting Belt: Supports your core during heavy lifts.

2. How It Works

Dip Belt: Holds weight plates using a chain or strap.

Weightlifting Belt: Creates pressure around your abdomen to stabilize your spine.

3. When to Use It

Use a Dip Belt For:

• Weighted dips

• Pull-ups

• Chin-ups

Use a Weightlifting Belt For:

• Heavy squats

• Deadlifts

• Powerlifting training

• Strength progression

4. Structure & Design

Do You Need a Dip Belt or a Weightlifting Belt?

Choose a Dip Belt If:

• You mainly train calisthenics

• You focus on weighted dips and pull-ups

• You don’t lift heavy barbells

Choose a Weightlifting Belt If:

• You squat or deadlift heavy

• You train for powerlifting

• You want lower back support

• You are increasing strength

For most serious lifters, a lever weightlifting belt is essential.

What Thickness Should You Choose?

If you’re buying a weightlifting belt, the next question is:

10mm or 13mm?

• 10mm → Best for most lifters

• 13mm → Best for elite heavy lifters

👉 Read our full guide here:
10mm vs 13mm Lever Belt: Which One Do You Really Need?

Explore HIT N FIT Lever Belts

Whether you’re upgrading from a basic gym belt or buying your first serious powerlifting belt, HIT N FIT offers multiple options:

🔹 Standard Lever Belts (Best for beginners)

🔹 Premium Lever Belts (For serious lifters)

🔹 Animated Lever Belts (Performance + Style)

🔹 Limited Edition Lever Belts (Exclusive designs)

🔹 Custom Lever Belts (Fully personalized)

Can You Use Both?

Yes.

Many advanced athletes use:

• A dip belt for weighted pull-ups

• A lever belt for squats and deadlifts

They serve different roles in your training.

FAQs

Is a dip belt the same as a lifting belt?

No. A dip belt holds weight plates; a lifting belt supports your core.

Can I squat using a dip belt?

No. A dip belt does not provide core stability.

Do I need a lifting belt for pull-ups?

Not usually. A dip belt is better for adding weight to pull-ups.

Does a weightlifting belt help prevent injury?

Yes, when used correctly, it helps protect your lower back.

Should beginners use a lifting belt?

Yes, especially when lifting heavier weights with proper form.

What belt thickness is best for beginners?

10mm lever belts are ideal for most beginners.

Can a dip belt help me lift heavier in squats?

No. Only a weightlifting belt supports heavy barbell lifts.

Is a lever belt better than a prong belt?

Lever belts are quicker to adjust and provide consistent tightness.

What is the best belt for powerlifting?

A 10mm or 13mm lever belt, depending on experience and strength level.

Where can I buy high-quality lever belts?

HIT N FIT offers economy, premium, animated, limited edition, and fully custom lever belts.

Final Verdict

A dip belt is for adding weight to bodyweight exercises.
A weightlifting lever belt is for protecting your core and maximizing strength in heavy barbell lifts.

If you’re serious about squats, deadlifts, and powerlifting, a HIT N FIT lever belt is the smarter investment.