Strength Shop Wrist Wraps 2+ Years Review + Video [2024]
Let’s be honest—if your wrists are feeling the strain from heavy bench presses or overhead lifts, they might be on the verge of taking more punishment than they should. The good news is there’s an easy solution to prevent this: wrist wraps.
These handy tools can save your wrists from feeling like they’re 80 years old after a few intense lifting sessions. After three years of testing one of the most budget-friendly and durable options on the market, the Strength Shop Stiff Wrist Wraps, I’m here to give you the lowdown on whether they’re worth your hard-earned cash.
Let’s dive in.
Want to see these wrist wraps in action? Watch this 4-minute video review I made:
Features and Specifications
Strength Shop’s wrist wraps come in three different sizes:
- 12” – Ideal for quick wrapping and lighter support
- 24” – Perfect balance of support and convenience
- 36” – Offers maximum support for heavy lifting but can be bulkier
I personally went with the 24-inch version in black. For me, this size provides the perfect amount of support without being too cumbersome, but depending on your preferences, you might opt for the 12” or 36” lengths. If you need faster wrapping and lighter support, go for the 12”. If you’re pushing big weights and want extra protection, the 36” wraps will offer more cushioning, though they can be a bit unwieldy.
These wraps fall under the stiff category, offering solid wrist support. However, if you’re looking for something even more rigid, Strength Shop also provides a super stiff option for maximum stability:
A few quick details:
- 1/2″ thumb loop: Keeps the wrap anchored while you adjust tightness.
- 2″ velcro closure: Ensures a secure fit.
While these specs might seem standard, the durability and performance make all the difference.
How to Use Strength Shop Wrist Wraps
Wrist wraps might look intimidating to the uninitiated, but they’re super simple to use. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Slide your thumb through the loop.
- Position the Strength Shop logo facing downwards.
- Wrap around your wrist to your desired tightness.
- Secure with velcro.
I usually wrap it twice around my wrist for the perfect balance between snug and comfortable. But how tight should you go? That depends on the weight you’re lifting. For heavier lifts like bench presses, you’ll want to wrap them tighter for maximum support. For lighter lifts like high-rep dumbbell presses, you can keep them a little looser.
Some lifters wear wraps throughout their entire workout, but I prefer to save them for the heavier, wrist-taxing lifts such as:
- Bench press
- Military press
- Triceps extensions
Using the wraps when you really need them ensures you don’t over-rely on them while still protecting your joints when they’re under serious pressure.
What I Like About the Strength Shop Wrist Wraps
After using these wraps consistently for almost three years, I can confidently say they’ve earned their place in my gym bag. Here’s what I like:
- High-quality build: Right from day one, you can tell these wraps are built to last. They’re IPF approved, which is always a good sign, especially for competitive powerlifters.
- Durability: Three years in, these wraps are still holding strong. Sure, there are a few loose threads, but nothing that affects their performance. They’re tough, durable, and haven’t stretched out or lost their elasticity.
- Cushioning and stability: I mostly use them for close grip bench presses and military presses, where wrist support is non-negotiable. These wraps provide excellent stability without being too bulky.
- Adjustable tightness: The 24” length is ideal for adjusting tightness to your liking. You can wrap them as tight or as loose as needed without sacrificing comfort. Just avoid going too tight, or it might get uncomfortable—but even then, loosening them is a breeze.
If you’re looking for wrist wraps that strike a balance between toughness and comfort, these are a fantastic option.
What I Don’t Like About the Strength Shop Wrist Wraps
While the Strength Shop wrist wraps have a lot going for them, they’re not without their quirks. The main issue I’ve encountered is adjusting the tightness. Sometimes it takes a couple of tries to get it just right—you might wrap too loose, then overcompensate by going too tight. But once you figure out the sweet spot, it becomes second nature. This is a minor complaint considering the overall performance.
Who Should Buy These Wrist Wraps?
Whether you’re a beginner or a competitive powerlifter, these wraps will serve you well. They’re USPA and IPF approved, which means you can use them in competitions if you’re into that. But even if you just enjoy lifting heavy in the gym, these wraps will provide the support you need.
And the best part? They won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The affordable price makes them accessible for lifters on a budget—perfect for both beginners and seasoned pros who don’t want to overspend.
If you’re interested in learning more about powerlifting essentials on a budget, check out our guide to the best affordable lifting straps that pair perfectly with these wraps.
Final Thoughts
After three years of heavy use, the Strength Shop wrist wraps have proven themselves to be one of the most reliable and durable pieces of gear in my collection. If you’re looking for solid wrist support that won’t break the bank, these are a no-brainer. Their durability, comfort, and performance have exceeded my expectations, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to protect their wrists while lifting heavy.
If you’re serious about your lifting game, you might also want to check out our comprehensive guide on choosing the best knee sleeves to protect your joints and boost performance in your squats and deadlifts.