Rogue lever belt vs 5" Nylon belt

This is a comparison of the Rogue Lever belt and the 5" Nylon belt including pros, cons, and alternatives. Follow the links for more details.

Rogue 5 Nylon Weightlifting belt

The Rogue Nylon 5'' weightlifting belt is a low price option from Rogue to provide some support for your back. This is the right choice when you want to save money. If you want to know more about the Rogue belt portfolio read my article "Which belt to buy from Rogue" in which this overview has been originally published.

What else to consider from Rogue

Overview of the 5'' Nylon belt

This is the Rogue branded version of the 5'' nylon belt. This belt includes a hook and loop fastening system and comes in black. It also includes a steel tensioning buckle to make it easy to adjust the belt quickly.

Pros of the 5'' Nylon belt

The biggest pro is the price of only $21. This belt will support beginners in the squat, deadlift and bench press. It is also a good option for anyone with back pain or just occasionally lifting to protect the back. Crossfitters will find it a good option to ease lower back fatigue on high rep WODS with light weights. The nylon will be more forgiving to your body than leather and leave fewer marks.

Cons of the 5'' Nylon belt

You get what you pay for. The Rogue branding on this belt is neither stitched nor embossed. Be prepared that it will wear off quick when used heavily. I have worn Nylon belts on heavy squats and would not recommend it. Once you start squatting more than your own bodyweight for reps it is time to go for leather., if you were a belt.

Alternatives to the 5'' Nylon belt

If this belt is too big for you, you can also go for the smaller 4'' version. If you are willing to invest into a leather belt but do not want it to dig into your ribs as much, you might want to look at the 3'' version of the Ohio belt. If you prefer something produced in the states there is also an upgraded version of this Nylon belt for double the price which is exclusively produced in the US.

Rogue Black Leather 13mm 4'' Lever Belt

The Rogue black leather lever belt comes in at $145 and is the premium model of Rogue to date. You can learn more about the Rogue belt products in my article "Which belt to buy from Rogue" in which this piece has been originally published.

Overview of the lever belt

The Rogue Black Leather 13 mm Lever belt is manufactured by Pioneer in the United States. It weighs around 3lb and has 4'' in width. The leather has been vegetable tanned and has a thickness of 13mm. The belt is IPF approved which means that you can wear it wear your lifts when you are competing in the IPF. The Rogue logo is embossed and it is available in black. The edges are beveled for more comfort. The inner side of the belt prevents slipping as it is roughened up leather.

The buckle also comes in black. The leather pieces are sewn together with a single stitch. The lever itself can be screwed in place to have the best fit for the lifter. To adjust the belt in size you will need to use a screwdriver. In total there are six screws that need to be fixed to make the belt work.

Pros of the lever belt

This belt is big and sturdy. If you want to lift heavy often and know your way around correct breathing and bracing this is the right belt for you. The lever makes it very easy to get in and out of the belt while having it very tight. Once adjusted for you, you will have a great piece of equipment. The 13mm vegetable tanned leather support this way of lifting in addition. If you are planning to compete in powerlifting and know how to move a serious weight, this is the belt for you for individual use.

Cons of the lever belt

The most obvious reason is the price. With $145 it is the highest price for a belt in the Rogue portfolio. For this budget, you can also almost get 3x Rogue Echo belts. If you intend to use this belt for multiple people it is also not optimal. While the lever system is great for an individual lifter it is a complete mess when a belt is shared between multiple people. Every single lifter has to bring a screwdriver, to adjust for their personal needs. Some people might also not like the black color of the belt, as there are no other options from Rogue yet.

Alternatives to the lever belt

If you are willing to spend around $100 for the family you might want to get the Rogue Ohio belt instead. the leather is not as thick and it comes with a buckle which will make it easier for everyone in the house to use the belt in your garage gym. If you are considering a purchase for a commercial gym you might want to buy three Echo belts instead of one lever belt. There is usually only one heavy lifter per gym and they usually bring their own belt. Therefore cover for the weekend warriors and fit moms by providing a few more belts for classes