Despite packing an efficient punch, the best exercise bikes cost similar to rowing machines —  as little as $300 to well over $2,500. Imagine the horror of spending thousands of dollars just to find out you don’t love your shiny new cardio equipment?!

Lucky for you, I’ve done the research for you and gathered a list of the 13 best exercise bikes, so you can pick the right one for you.

How We Chose the Best Exercise Bikes

The Breaking Muscle team comprises a passionate squad of fitness aficionados, including conditioning coaches, spin instructors, competitive triathletes, and home gym owners. Altogether, our team has tested and reviewed 50+ exercise bikes — from the cheapest to the most expensive — putting them through rigorous a 13-point protocol.

From there, we chose the best exercise bikes by category rating each from 1 to 5 based on criteria like:

• Adjustability: Are the handlebars and the seat adjustable to fit various body sizes?
• Customization: Can you swap in your own pedals, saddle, and handlebars for a more custom riding experience?
• Tech capabilities: What interactive tech is available, if any? Is there Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity available?

We have lots to cover… so gear up and let’s dive in!

Our Top Picks for the Best Exercise Bikes

• Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
• Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X
• Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
• Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc
• Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg
• Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike
• Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore
• Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike
• Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike
• Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move
• Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

4.5

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The NordicTrack S22i is hands-down the best exercise bike overall. We had three product testers take this bike for a ride to tell us why it won our top pick.

This NordicTrack bike’s programming, screen, and connectivity are excellent. Our product testers love the complimentary one-year iFIT membership because you can do live coach-led workouts, on-demand studio classes, and outdoor courses. 

Plus, the 22-inch touchscreen is high-definition, so it looks like you’re riding through a trail in Hawaii or taking a spin class in person.  It also swivels, so you can do other iFIT workouts off the bike without needing to see the screen from the rest of your home gym. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

With 24 smooth-adjusting, magnetic resistance levels, our Breaking Muscle staff members found the riding experience on the S22i impressive.

They were pleasantly surprised that this bike inclines up to 20 percent grade and declines down to -10 percent, which is rare for a spin bike — the angle can even be auto-adjusted during your workouts by your iFIT coaches. The resistance and incline levels adjust digitally, which feels higher-end than push buttons.

NordicTrack included a series of convenient accessories on the S22i. For starters, our product testers like the dual water bottle holders and the built-in fan to keep you hydrated and comfortable during your rides. Plus, the media shelf helps hold your smartphone, and there’s even an easy-access storage tray for the two (complimentary) three-pound dumbbells.

When it comes to mobility, the S22i is more cumbersome than you’d expect. Our product testers found the front wheels helped it move, but there’s no handle at the back, so you have to awkwardly lift it from the rear stabilizer beam for the wheels to kick in. They also noticed you need to be careful with the big screen knocking into things as you reposition it. Combined with its 205-pound in-box weight, a second person can be helpful when moving the bike.

Unfortunately, the S22i’s programming is limited if you don’t have an iFIT membership. Without it, you essentially just have the machine in manual mode. There are a few free bike workouts in iFIT that you can access without the recurring subscription, but even the live chat agent couldn’t confirm this and suggested we call their Customer Service team.

With the impressive build quality and tech of this NordicTrack Studio Bike, it’s no surprise that it commands a higher price. At the time of publishing, it retails at $1,999 — making it comparable to the Peloton Bike+. Remember, you’ll also need an ongoing iFIT subscription to use the bike to its full potential. That said, I think it’s well worth the cost, considering the bike’s features and the value of the iFIT membership.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.5 out of 5 stars for its excellent classes and courses with iFIT, smooth resistance with incline/decline capability, and convenient accessories.

Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

4.4

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

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The Pro X is a beast of an air bike. Our product tester loved its belt drive because it’s smoother than their more affordable Assault Bike Classic and the previous model (the Assault Bike Pro), both of which have chain drives. 

At first use, its 125-pound weight stood out, as it’s incredibly sturdy even when pedaling and pushing as hard as possible. Almost everything on this unit is metal; a full-metal construction means it’s seriously rugged and should last years, even when used by heavier and stronger athletes.

Assault Fitness uses the same “Elite” monitor on all their air bikes, and after testing 10+ air bikes, it’s become our product tester’s favorite. The physical buttons are easy to touch and colored, which is an underrated feature you’ll appreciate if you’ve done a HIIT workout on an air bike. The console’s high-contrast LCD screen also displays all the essential metrics: heart rate, calories, distance, RPM, and more. The included programming intervals and Bluetooth connectivity are a great benefit as well.

Having reviewed dozens of cardio equipment pieces over the past three years, I’m personally impressed by Assault’s warranty on their Pro X. The frame is covered by a seven-year warranty, with a three-year warranty on moving parts. 

Many companies try to pass the majority of frustrating part repairs on to their customers by only covering “non-wear and tear” parts. However, Assault breaks the mold by explicitly covering “moving” parts for the first three years. Knowing you can put the Pro X through brutal workouts day after day while being covered on parts delivers serious peace of mind.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has extensive experience repairing air bikes and says swapping a belt or changing internal components can be a nightmare. Bike repairs often need special parts and are best done by a certified technician, so expect any significant repairs to take multiple hours, with most of your help coming from how-to/troubleshooting videos. To be fair, this applies to air bikes bought from any company — not just Assault Fitness.

Because the Pro X is large, it can be cumbersome to move. One of our product testers found the easiest way to transport it is to lift it from the rear stabilizer until the wheels contact the floor. Still, the 125-pound weight with its 52-inch x 24.5-inch footprint makes this air bike challenging to move compared to the Concept2 BikeErg, and it might be too much for some users.

In general, fan bikes might not be the best choice for home gyms that have to be careful of noise levels. As a fan-based bike, the Assault Bike Pro X is loud. 

That said, the fan-blade system of the Pro X appears to be a regular bike hub with fan blades welded to it — making it much smaller than what you’d find on the Rogue Echo bike. This smaller size means less air displacement, and some Breaking Muscle team members were surprised by how quiet it was in comparison.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.4 out of 5 stars for its rugged design, excellent console capabilities, and impressive warranty.

Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

3.6

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

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One of our product testers took the Echelon Connect bike for a ride and was immediately impressed. 

It features an oversized 24-inch curved touchscreen, which feels enormous but immersive when working out. Combine that with the high-definition quality and LED lights that sync to your workout metrics, and it feels like you’re cycling in a live studio class — which is super motivating. The dual-facing speakers offer great sound, and the screen flips 180 degrees, so you can easily view it for Echelon Premier workouts.

By joining their Echelon Premier Membership at $39.99 monthly, you unlock daily live classes and over 15,000 various, on-demand classes. Premier members receive exclusive discounts, a more comprehensive range of class difficulties, and up to five user profiles. With this membership, you can also view a leaderboard and compete against others, see when your friends are online, and check other users’ stats worldwide. Finally, the Echelon app syncs your console with your Strava, Zwift, Apple Health, FitBit, and Spotify profiles and data.

Alternatively, Echelon offers a more affordable “Fit Pass” at $11.99 monthly. This plan is best if you want to work out anywhere, anytime, without needing any equipment. Fit Pass includes 60+ instructors, 40+ daily live classes, challenges, and more. I like their range of workouts; they have everything from cardio and core training to meditation and barre. They even have a travel-the-world-fitness class option, which reminds our product tester of JRNY and iFIT. 

Despite the massive class selection, our product tester finds the quality could be better for the monthly price, even if you sign up for a two-year plan ($29.16 monthly). She notes that the price seems high for what it is because it isn’t as produced as Peloton’s live and on-demand classes, but it isn’t bad — the production quality just isn’t quite there yet.

The EX-8S retails for $3,079.50, but it’s on sale for $1,699.99 at the time of publishing. The sale price is way more reasonable, but the original cost seems expensive for the actual specs of the bike. Considering the Peloton Bike+ is more affordable and offers a better warranty, I wouldn’t be surprised if more customers jump ship.

Echelon’s warranty on the Connect EX-8S is flat-out disappointing at just one year. Their 30-day return policy and financing option are typical, but our product tester couldn’t believe the warranty is only one year, especially for such a steep retail price. If you’re an active Echelon Premier member, you can enjoy the benefit of full warranty coverage for up to five years. However, this requires an ongoing monthly membership for 60 months, costing you a whopping $1,700 over those five years in subscription fees.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for the outstanding 24” HD touchscreen, along with the workout subscription options offered through Echelon Premier and the more affordable Fit Pass.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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The Horizon 5.0R is excellent for seniors due to its mobility-friendly design. For example, the low, step-through frame helps you access the seated position even if you struggle with mobility or leg strength. Once you’re ready to sit down into the seat, there are front handlebars that you can hold for support as you sit down — they also make it easier to stand up after your workout. 

I’m impressed by the sturdiness of the 5.0R, which is a blessing because most seniors have trouble with their balance. 

The large 66-inch by 25.2-inch footprint and lower seat position result in a more stable machine. The flywheel, however, weighs just 15.4 pounds, which makes it easy to pedal at first and is gentler on your joints. That said, 100 magnetic resistance levels are available, so you can still get a smooth but seriously intense workout.

I’m also glad to see toe clips on the pedals; they help keep your feet from slipping out, which is more likely on a recumbent bike due to the reclined angle of your feet. The extra-large, adjustable seat includes a backrest and handlebars along the sides. Even though you have a near-zero chance of slipping out of the seat during your workout, holding the handlebars for extra support and peace of mind is nice.

Finally, I’m pleased with this exercise bike’s simple controls and convenient features. For one, the screen and control buttons are easy to see and reach while seated. Further, a built-in fan and an included water bottle holder keep you comfortable and hydrated during your rides. All of these features add a nice touch for older populations. 

Unfortunately, the bike does require some assembly. There’s a helpful assembly video, but according to Horizon, lifting the main frame out of the box requires two people. Because of the box size, weight, and assembly, this might be too much work, depending on your strength and mobility. 

Horizon does have an in-room delivery option for an extra $199 if you’re experienced with basic tools and would prefer to assemble it yourself but want the large box brought in by another person. Alternatively, they offer white glove delivery and assembly for $239, including room-of-choice delivery, complete setup and assembly, and packaging removal.

At 123 pounds, this exercise bike might be too heavy for a senior to move. There is a carrying handle at the bottom rear of the machine, and once you lift it from the handle, you can wheel it to another location. Indeed, you’re not lifting the entire bike — some of the bike’s weight will be resting on the wheels — but combined with its large footprint, you might find it unmoveable without some help.

Finally, the touchscreen console requires basic tech skills. You’ll be okay with the console if you can operate a smartphone or tablet. That said, some seniors rely only on analog (push) buttons and might find the touchscreen and controls too confusing to use if they’re not tech-savvy.

All the above considered, we rank this 4 out of 5 stars for its mobility-friendly access, sturdy and stable design, and simple yet intuitive controls.

Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

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The Diamondback Fitness 1260sc is a fantastic spin-studio-quality bike. The rear-mounted 31-pound flywheel gives it extra smoothness, similar to riding a bike outside. Even better, Diamondback Fitness uses a belt to drive the flywheel — making it significantly smoother and quieter than a chain-driven system. Although our product tester didn’t think she’d like the magnetic resistance lever, she grew to love its premium-like clicking sound. All these finer touches make the 1260 comparable to an exercise bike from a commercial gym studio.

To add to the studio feel, the 1260 is highly adjustable. The handlebars are two-way adjustable (up, down, forward, and back) and have plenty of grips, so you can find a comfortable hand position whether riding in or out of the saddle. The two-sided pedals have toe clips for maximum safety and cycling efficiency, while the other is a classic flat pedal. Thanks to the two-way adjusting seat and the variety of available heights, our five-foot, four-inch tall product tester fit perfectly with a couple of inches to spare.

This Diamondback Fitness bike connects to many ANT+ apps and wearables so that you can pair it with Garmin and Wahoo products. Our product tester enjoys the vast range of apps connecting via Bluetooth FTMS (Fitness Machine Service protocol). This latest tech lets you connect your fitness equipment to popular apps like Zwift, Rouvy, Myzone, SPIVI, and others — tracking your watts, time, distance, rpm, heart rate, and more.

Our product tester doesn’t love where they put the water bottle holder and vertical adjustment levers on this bike. Since the water bottle holder is mounted in front of the post, she has to awkwardly lean forward and reach around the front post to grab water while riding. The adjustment levers also don’t open easily, so they require a lot of force to pry them open. Once opened, adjustments are no problem — but the initial sticking point of the levers is no joke.

The console on the 1260 is as simple as you can get, and it lacks any interactive features you’d see on a Peloton+. The console doesn’t provide any programming, so you must do your workouts manually, pair the console with an app, find free online classes, or join a subscription service like iFIT.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its spin-studio quality, impressive adjustability, and wide range of console connectivity.

Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg

Concept2 BikeErg

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

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The BikeErg is extremely easy to move, making it the best portable exercise bike due mainly to its materials and construction. Built mostly from aluminum,  it’s lightweight and compact (48 inches long by 24 inches wide), which minimizes excess weight while retaining durability. It also weighs only 68 pounds when fully assembled, making it lighter than most exercise bikes and a little over half the weight of the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike. 

The C2 BikeErg includes caster wheels that make moving it a breeze. Once the machine tips up for the wheels to kick in, you can roll it smoothly to wherever you want it to go. You can fit it into most vehicles by removing the seat and handlebar posts, making it easier to haul to another CrossFit box or gym.

Its high portability is heightened further by its adjustability, customizability, and versatility. The handlebars can be adjusted up, down, forward, and back. Similarly, you can raise or lower the seat and tilt it to +/-15-degrees. I’m impressed the BikeErg is compatible with most cycling parts — letting you change the saddle, handlebars, and pedals as you see fit.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has used the Concept2 BikeErg extensively and is continually impressed by its versatility. They enjoy it for long endurance rides and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Unlike an air bike like the AssaultBike Pro X, the Concept2 is a jack-of-all-trades.

There are a few downsides to the Concept2 BikeErg. First, it’s rather noisy. Like the other Concept2 cardio machines, the BikeErg is also fan-based, so a loud whooshing sound is made when you pedal. Compared to a quiet electromagnetic bike like the BLANK, I could see some users being annoyed by the noise from the fan. The higher damper settings restrict airflow, reducing the loudness, but you might still need headphones or earplugs if it bothers you.

If you enjoy using interactive consoles, you might be slightly disappointed by Concept2’s Performance Monitor (PM5). It lacks the engaging and interactive aspects of the NordicTrack S22i’s iFIT membership console. The screen is small and lacks speakers. Plus, it doesn’t offer live or on-demand workout classes — you must pay for a separate subscription service.

Finally, the BikeErg isn’t cheap by any means. It’s a quality spin bike (technically fan-based, but it doesn’t count as an air bike due to the lack of moveable handlebars), so you can expect it to cost a pretty penny. You’ll save some money going with a more economical brand, but whether you’re willing to sacrifice on performance and the power of the PM5 is up to you.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its easy portability, highly adjustable components, impressive customizability, and versatility.

RELATED: Concept2 RowErg Review

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

4.1

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

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When you lead a busy life, keeping a regular exercise habit is easier said than done if it takes 30 minutes to an hour — enter the CAROL. 

Quick note: our product testers trialed the original CAROL bike, but this review is based on the 2.0 version of the CAROL. We’ll note any updated features of the 2.0 version below.

This bike is the best for weight loss because it gives you an effective workout in just five minutes, so you can easily fit it into your busy schedule. There’s no excuse with the CAROL because your workout takes just five minutes. This means you can do it any time during your day, making it much more likely that you’ll stick with your new exercise habit.

The CAROL is also ideal for weight loss because the workouts use an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to calculate your optimal resistance. Simply choose one of 18 different workouts and fitness tests; the upgraded console 2.0 will walk you through it without any confusion, making it suitable for any age and fitness level. You even get access for up to eight riders with the home membership, so you can help others in their quest to live healthier, too.

This bike also supports weight loss through data-driven results. The first model of the CAROL had heart rate monitors built into the handlebars, whereas the 2.0 model includes a chest-strap heart rate monitor to track your training. Each workout refines what it’s learned to tailor workouts to your fitness level, then shows your progress using precise data like your overall fitness score, heart rate metrics, peak power, energy output, and global and local leaderboard stats. Seeing your fitness improve with nearly every workout will entice you to return.

Unfortunately, you’re locked into paying for the ongoing $15 monthly membership if you want a fully functioning bike. Without the membership, you can still do a manual ride, but the resistance will stay at the starting resistance and never change — making it practically useless for a real workout. For this reason, changing the intensity and using the bike to its maximum potential requires a recurring membership.

Next, the CAROL is relatively expensive. Based on the bike specs alone, it doesn’t live up to the price because it costs more than the Peloton Bike+ and doesn’t include live or on-demand classes like iFIT. Further, it’s roughly ten times the price of our most affordable exercise bike, the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike. Remember, though, this bike isn’t made for interactive fitness classes or enjoyable rides — it’s for people who want the best results from the shortest workout possible.

Sadly, the warranty falls short based on its $2,500 price tag. Like the Echelon EX-8s, it only has a one-year warranty, leaving much to be desired. Our product tester doesn’t think you’ll have any issues with the bike breaking down. and there’s a 100-day home trial if you change your mind. Still, she wishes the warranty was much longer, and I couldn’t agree more.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.1 out of 5 stars for its AI-controlled motorized resistance, detailed and data-driven console, and beautifully sleek design.

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

4.2

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The Bowflex VeloCore has a sleek and modern look, and our product tester was impressed with its high-quality build, finding it fun and easy to use. She appreciates the smooth-feeling 33-pound flywheel with 100 levels of magnetic resistance for quiet but intense workouts. This bike’s belt drive requires minimal maintenance and delivers a consistent performance. It has an adjustable seat, two-way adjusting handlebars, and dual-sided pedals that accommodate regular or SPD shoes — essential features for optimal comfort, especially if you’re a triathlete.

The bike comes with a choice of two screen sizes, 16-inch or 22-inch, and each is an HD, responsive touchscreen that connects to the JRNY app for live and on-demand workouts. Based on your level, an initial fitness assessment determines what classes JRNY recommends for you to try. There are also options to “explore the world” by biking around different destinations. The JRNY subscription even lets you stream entertainment like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+.

The bike’s most distinctive feature is the ability to lean from side to side, creating a more dynamic and engaging riding experience. The leaning feature claims to activate muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination. The bike also has a stabilizer bar that can lock the bike in place for a more traditional ride. The leaning feature works with the JRNY app, which offers scenic rides and interactive games that challenge you to lean and steer along the route.

One downside to the VeloCore is the price, ranging from $1,799 to $2,199 based on the screen size chosen. Going off the price alone, the Diamondback 1260sc is a better choice if you’re not interested in being able to lean as part of your workouts. 

The bike also requires a monthly subscription to the JRNY app, which costs $11.99 monthly or $99 per year. However, the bike’s functionality is severely limited without the subscription because you can only use the manual mode, and you can’t stream anything. 

The bike’s leaning feature is the main selling point of the bike, but it may not be as beneficial or enjoyable as it sounds. It claims to activate more muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination, yet no scientific evidence on the product page supports these claims. Plus, more moving parts and sensors than a regular bike make it more prone to wear and tear. It might not be worth the extra cost and hassle for users who prefer a more stable and less gimmicky ride.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.2 out of 5 stars for its excellent spin bike design, highly adjustable components, and innovative bike-leaning feature.

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Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike is a highly affordable exercise bike, on sale for $249.99 at the time of writing. Compared to many other bikes in this article, it’s the most budget-friendly option. Despite its economical price, I’m pleasantly surprised by its great reviews on Amazon: 4.⅘ stars based on feedback from 21,788 customers.

Our product reviewer is impressed with several features of this bike typically found on spin-studio-quality bikes. First, the flywheel is 35 pounds for a smooth riding experience that rivals cycling outdoors, and the steel frame feels heavy-duty for peace of mind while riding. The belt-driven system also minimizes noise and, combined with the mechanical (friction) resistance, is quiet enough to operate without disturbing sleeping kids or neighbors. 

Like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, the Yosuda also offers two-way adjustable handlebars and a four-way adjustable seat to ensure it fits as many cyclists of different sizes as possible. The built-in transportation wheels make moving it around easier, and the bike includes a device and water bottle holder.

However, the YOSUDA bike has some drawbacks that may make you think twice before buying it. The bike’s console has no programming, so you’re on your own for making or sourcing structured workouts. It also lacks Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you can’t sync it with cycling apps like Zwift or fitness devices like a heart rate monitor. Further, our Breaking Muscle team member’s LCD monitor was wobbly and seemed like it was about to fall off. It appears that Yosuda invested in some quality parts but cut corners on the rest.

For example, during testing, our product reviewer’s Yosuda had some pieces breaking off, such as the pedal strap. The bike seat was comfortable only for the first few minutes and already started to experience small tears, and the water bottle holder felt flimsy. Many reviews claim it’s a common experience for many parts to wear out or break off after a few months of use.

Finally, he provided some clear guidance on its durability. At around $300, it’s a great price but not a durable bike — it will likely need replacing in about two years. The Yosuda is fine if you’re looking for a quick short-term fix, but it’s not a forever bike. 

Suppose you prefer to make your exercise bike investment once. In that case, you may want to save for a more expensive and reliable bike that offers a better value and riding experience, like the Diamondback 1260sc.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for its affordability, value, adjustability, and high praise on Amazon.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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I’m pleasantly surprised with the Schwinn 290’s console and connectivity. You can use the JRNY® app on the 7″ LCD screen to access 200+ virtual courses that automatically adjust your bike’s resistance to the course’s terrain. 

Alternatively, there are trainer-led classes for a workout with a more human touch. There are many workout durations and class types, so you’ll most certainly find an intensity and trainer matching your preferences. Best of all, you get a two-month free trial to JRNY® when you buy the 290 Recumbent Bike. 

If you’re a ZWIFT fan, the console is compatible with that platform, so you can virtually interact, train, and compete against others worldwide. The speakers and console even have Bluetooth capability to connect to your smartphone or tablet easily. If you prefer to play your own music playlist or sync your heart rate monitor, both are possible on the 290.

While almost twice as expensive as our choice for the best affordable exercise bike (Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike), the Schwinn 290 packs impressive features to make this an excellent value exercise bike. 

The console includes a media shelf and USB charging port to rest your smartphone or tablet on within view for a hands-free workout without worrying about battery life. It also features a water bottle holder attached to the side of the backrest for easy hydration access, whether you like water or the best electrolyte powders during your rides. Due to its 107.6-pound weight, the transport wheels are super convenient for moving, especially if you plan on storing it away between workouts.

Regarding downsides, I don’t like how the foot pedals adjust. You can tighten and loosen them quickly, but you must push the selector tab into your desired strap notch to lock a size in place. Securing the tab is shockingly tricky, even more so if you have big feet or struggle with mobility. 

You’re better off getting a rough estimate of the notch you need, dismounting the bike, and adjusting them with both hands. Based on my experience with these, I feel like a classic cinching strap of the Concept2 BikeErg or a plain velcro strap would be more user-friendly. 

Further, the step-through area is just too cramped for my liking. It’s so small that you must angle your foot to pass it through the step-through area. As a result, I could see this being a tripping hazard for anyone with mobility or weight challenges. I’m surprised to see this area redesigned because the Schwinn 270 Recumbent — the model that the 290 has replaced — featured a much larger area for you to step through. Because of this safety oversight, I’d recommend the Horizon 5.0R over this recumbent for seniors.

Sadly, you won’t get a great labor warranty with the 290. The parts are free if anything breaks on this exercise bike within the first two years. However, the labor warranty is only 90 days — ridiculously short. This means you’ll have to figure out how to replace the part(s) yourself or pay a technician out-of-pocket to repair your bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its JRNY® + ZWIFT apps, Bluetooth speakers and connectivity, and convenient accessories.

Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

4.3

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

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This foldable upright bike collapses inward to a compact 21.5-inch depth, and the backrest folds down, so the height is only 47 inches. This means it can easily be tucked away in a closet when not in use. Although it didn’t make our top choice list, a Marcy upright bike can fold. While snagging the best upright exercise bike overall spot is unlikely, the folding feature is underrated if you work out in a small space.

Marcy’s folding bike is relatively portable. It features transport wheels, making it easy to move from one corner to another without lifting and carrying the entire bike. Depending on your strength, you could carry it up or down a flight of stairs if needed because it only weighs 37 pounds — making it one of the lightest exercise bikes featured in this article.

The features of this folding exercise bike surprised me. It boasts a 250-pound weight capacity, which is great for its lightweight frame. When folded out, the 14-gauge steel feels sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll hold up to its listed weight limit. The pedals have foot straps like the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike, and they’re also weighted, which makes getting your feet inserted much easier. The two-year warranty was higher than expected for a budget-friendly folding bike like this.

One downside is that the  Marcy foldable bike’s console is pretty barebones, displaying only the distance, time, speed, odometer, and burned calories. It has no built-in programming, meaning you’re stuck with the manual mode and might need a subscription to vary your workout. Unsurprisingly, the console also lacks Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity, so no apps or fitness devices will pair or sync with it. If tracking your workout data is crucial, find an alternative method or bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its folding feature to save space, portability, and multiple surprising features like sturdiness, pedals, and warranty.

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move

Cubii Move

3.8

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

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The Cubii Move has six adjustable resistance levels using the knob in the center of the machine, so you can customize your workout intensity and challenge yourself as you progress. 

The LCD screen displays the metric you’ve selected, and this under-desk exercise bike can track a surprising number of metrics, from stride count and mileage to duration and calories burned. The reset button is large enough to press it with your toe without bending down and using your finger.

This under-desk machine is free and compatible with the Cubii app, which lets you manually add your data, join challenges, and access 300+ expert-guided workout classes. Through it, you can connect with other Cubii users and share your achievements and goals.

The Cubii is lightweight and portable, weighing only 18 pounds. Thanks to its glass-filled nylon construction, you can quickly move it from room to room. This means it’s not difficult to bring it home from your office, so you can continue to use it while watching TV after your workday — storing it under your bed or in a closet when not in use.

This under-desk elliptical isn’t suitable if you’re looking for a high-intensity or full-body workout. It only targets your lower body muscles: quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. However, the range of motion is significantly smaller compared to a recumbent exercise bike. It also doesn’t provide much cardiovascular or calorie-burning benefits compared to other exercise machines.

The Cubii may not work well on thick carpets as the rubber feet might sink, causing the unit to wobble and shift out of place. Also, it might not fit under some desks or chairs, depending on the height and clearance. You may need to adjust your chair or desk height to avoid hitting your knees on the underside of your desk. Lastly, you may also need to wear comfortable shoes or socks to prevent blisters or discomfort on your feet.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its low impact, good metrics, free app, and portable build.

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Peloton Bike+

4.4

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The screen on the Peloton Bike+ is amazing. It is a 23.8-inch HD (1080p) touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees, so you can easily switch between your cycling workouts and exercising off the bike. The screen also has a high-fidelity sound system, a front-facing camera, and a microphone so that you can interact with other riders and instructors with crystal-clear quality. The camera even has a privacy cover, which many camera-shy people can appreciate.

I like the screen’s responsiveness and how easy it is to navigate. It displays all the metrics you need to track your performance, like cadence, resistance, output, heart rate, and calories burned. It even features a reduced-reflective and anti-smudge coating, so your fingerprints won’t end up all over the touchscreen.

Peloton offers various live and on-demand classes to suit your preferences and goals. I love the availability of classes and the huge selection of music choices like pop, hip hop, rock, R&B, the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and Broadway. The classes range from five to 75 minutes, though from what I’ve seen, most classes fall in the 20- to 30-minute range. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood for a longer workout but can’t find a 45-minute class that interests me, I’ll “stack” two shorter classes together. 

I particularly enjoy the Power Zone classes, where different parts focus on staying within a certain heart rate zone, and the climb or HIIT rides, where the intensity is slightly higher than regular classes. There are also many beginner classes, and even though I consider myself more advanced in fitness, I enjoy the beginner classes occasionally for active recovery.

Unfortunately, the bike is expensive. The Peloton Bike+ costs $2,495, a lot of money for an exercise bike. 

You also have to pay for the accessories, such as the shoes, the mat, the weights, and the heart rate monitor, which can add up to another few hundred dollars. The bike also requires a monthly subscription of $39 to access the classes and features, another recurring cost you must factor in. If you are on a tight budget, the Peloton Bike+ might not be your best option.

The Peloton Bike+ only works with the Peloton app and the Apple Watch, which means you cannot use it with other fitness apps or devices you might already have or prefer. 

For example, you can’t use the bike with Zwift, Strava, Garmin, Fitbit, or any other third-party app or device. You also can’t export your workout data to other platforms unless you use a workaround involving screenshots or third-party apps. This can be frustrating if you want to integrate your Peloton workouts with your other fitness activities or track your progress on other platforms.

It’s also important to realize that you won’t jive with every instructor. As you ride the bike more and familiarize yourself with their personalities and styles, you learn who you connect best with. 

For example, I’m not a big fan of over-the-top cheerleading or motivational talk when exercising, so I avoid the instructors who tend to lean that way during their classes. Several instructors were once competitive cyclists or Ironman/triathlon athletes. They provide a lot of insight into the mindset of an athlete, which I like a lot better, so I take their classes more often. The key is to test out many instructors and stick with who you enjoy most.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.25 out of 5 stars for its outstanding quality console, high-tech screen, and massive range of classes and music.

What Are the Benefits of Exercise Bikes?

Low-Impact Training

Unlike running or jumping, cycling places less stress on your joints, bones, and muscles. This reduces injury risk and makes exercise bike training suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially seniors and those struggling with excessive weight.

Improved Cardiovascular Conditioning

Cycling increases your heart rate and blood circulation, strengthening your heart, lungs, and blood vessels over time. This allows them to handle higher cardio demands than they could have previously tolerated. Additionally, improved cardiovascular conditioning can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Can Support Weight Loss Goals

Depending on the intensity and duration of your workout, you can burn anywhere from a couple hundred to nearly a thousand calories per hour on an exercise bike. This can help you create a calorie deficit essential for losing weight.

Reduced Stress

Using an exercise bike can help you reduce stress and anxiety, as it releases endorphins and serotonin, which are natural chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. 

Lower Body Strengthening

Exercise bikes work out your lower body muscles, such as your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. This can improve your muscle strength and endurance, as well as your balance and coordination. Stronger lower body muscles can also prevent or alleviate lower back pain, knee pain, and other common ailments.

What to Consider When Buying an Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike Type

There are four exercise bike types: upright, recumbent, spin, and air.

• Upright: An upright bike allows you to sit upright with the pedals directly below you. The handles are elevated and are closer to you than on a spin bike, and the seat is usually wider and more comfortable. This conventional riding position is great if you like longer rides that focus on your legs, but it’s less effective for high-intensity training than an air bike.
• Recumbent: This style of bike has a seat with a back pad to support your middle and lower back, placing you in a reclined riding position. Unlike other styles, the pedals are at the front on a recumbent bike. The recumbent style distributes your weight evenly between the seat and the back pad, making it excellent for longer rides. Since you can relax your upper body more than an upright bike, it’s great for riders with back and joint issues. This style is also lower to the ground, so getting on and off the bike is easier — a major selling point if you struggle with mobility.
• Spin: A spin bike, also known as an indoor cycling bike, is the closest style to outdoor cycling. The narrower seat and lower bring your upper body forward, giving your upper body a workout instead of just your legs. This style is less comfortable than an upright and recumbent bike but offers better performance, which is vital for those wanting to train at higher intensities.
• Air bike: This fan-based bike style is sometimes called “dual-action.” Air bikes feature moving handlebars that you can operate separately or simultaneously with the pedals and provide resistance by the fan blades displacing air. The seat tends to be broader, and the pedals are below it, like on an upright bike. An air bike isn’t the best for long rides because it’s harder to maintain consistent resistance, but this style is unmatched for high intensity.

Cost

Exercise bikes can range from hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Generally, the higher-priced bikes include more features like high-tech consoles, more resistance levels, and better build quality. If you go too cheap, you can miss out on key features that prevent an enjoyable and safe cycling experience.

Dimensions

You want to ensure the bike fits comfortably in your room and doesn’t obstruct your movement or other furniture. You also want to check the weight and portability of the bike in case you need to move it around or store it away.

Remember, you’ll likely need one to two feet of open space on either side of your bike to get on and off and not feel cramped while riding.

Build Quality

The overall build quality of an exercise bike should be top of mind when shopping. Look for a steel frame over aluminum — it’ll be more robust and sturdier. High-quality exercise bikes often feature a higher weight capacity, so you can usually use the bike’s total capacity as a proxy for its build quality.

Noise 

If you’ll be using your exercise bike at home, you’ll want to be mindful of how noisy the bike will be, especially if you’ll be working out when kids or neighbors might be sleeping. Noise level depends mainly on the resistance type of the bike. 

Air bikes are by far the loudest because they’re fan-based, followed by mechanical-tension bikes since they apply resistance using friction pads. The quietest exercise bikes will be those that use electromagnetic resistance due to magnets applying tension to the flywheel.

You’ll also want to consider whether you’ll be watching live exercise classes or follow-along workouts on your console. These will project sound with speakers, but you can usually use headphones or earbuds to minimize the noise from any tech you use.

Seat and Handlebar Adjustability

The adjustability of your seat and handlebars is paramount to avoid injury, even more so if you’re taller or shorter than average.

Typically, you’ll want a bike that lets you adjust the seat in four ways: up, down, forward, and back. Seats with upward and downward angling are also beneficial for a more customized fit. Look for two-point adjustability at a minimum for the handlebars, which means they can be adjustable forward and back.

Console

Like all of the best cardio machines, exercise bikes vary widely in design, so it’s no surprise that consoles can be ultra-basic, high-tech, or even lacking altogether. Although rare, some exercise bikes don’t have a console.

The key is that not every console will show your revolutions per minute (rpm), distance traveled, heart rate, or calories burned — all of which aren’t mandatory for a workout but can be highly motivating for your long-term adherence and progress. Just remember that more detailed displays tend to come with a higher price.

Pedals

Typically, you’ll find three main types of pedals on exercise bikes: flat, cage, and clip-in.

• Flat: This is your classic type of pedal, also known as the “platform” pedal in the cycling world. Flat pedals are precisely as they sound — flat. You just put your feet against them and pedal, making them incredibly easy to use. Unfortunately, they’re harder to control on the ascent of each revolution when you’re pedaling fast, and if your feet slip, you can bang your ankles or scrape your shins against the pedals. 
• Cage: This type of pedal is a flat pedal with toe clips attached to the front, which are flexible “cages”  that slide over the toe box of your shoes. Toe clips hold your feet in place and make biking more efficient because you can apply force upwards without having your foot come off the pedal — allowing you to transfer that force back into the downward stroke. Since you can pull up on the pedal and push down, you can work your legs more to burn more calories.
• Clip-in: Lastly, there are clip-in pedals. Exercise bikes built for serious cyclists will tend to feature clip-in pedals connecting to cyclists’ special shoes. Not to worry though, you can upgrade the pedals of most bikes to clip-in pedals if you like the bike itself, but they only have flat or cage pedals.

Available Programming

Exercise bikes with consoles can have all kinds of built-in workouts. The most popular are hill climbing, cardio, fat burning, and strength training. 

Some bikes don’t include programming, like the Diamondback 1260sc. If you’re using your smartphone or tablet, a console lacking programming might be fine. If not, make sure the bike has Bluetooth connectivity at a minimum.

Bluetooth connectivity is the most popular connectivity method, allowing you to use apps like Peloton and Zwift. AMP+ is another type of connectivity, but it’s mostly limited to heart rate monitors, so I’d recommend using Bluetooth instead. It’s a bit more money upfront but opens up the available connections for apps, workouts, and more.

Available Conveniences

Exercise bikes can come with several convenient accessories to make your workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. Not all bikes include these, but you can often buy them separately to customize your exercise bike later.

• Phone/tablet holder: If you have an exercise bike with a console lacking in streaming service and classes, then a media shelf is a convenient plus. A media shelf is just a hard plastic ridge that sticks out from the console to lay your device without it falling off. Without one, you’ll have to hold your device for the duration of your workout.
• Water bottle holder: Having a water bottle holder is seriously underrated whether you’ll be doing shorter HIIT classes or longer endurance rides. The last thing you want is to interrupt your workout just because your water bottle isn’t within reach. One of our Breaking Muscle staff members runs into this problem every workout — they have an upright bike without a water bottle holder. While it’s possible to buy the holder separately, its absence from the stock version of the bike is an annoying omission by the manufacturer.
• Built-in fans: Built-in fans are more common on the best treadmills than on exercise bikes, but some bikes, like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, include them. If you sweat heavily, live in a hot or humid climate, or enjoy the added comfort of built-in airflow, it can be a convenient add-on for your bike. Remember, if your bike doesn’t include this feature, you can buy and mount a mini fan separately.
• Weight rack: Some riders like combining bike rides with weight lifting using the best dumbbells. Similar to the water bottle holder, having a small weight rack to keep them within reach will save you from getting off your bike whenever you need to use them.
• Wheels: If you’ll be moving your bike often, having wheels built into the bike is a nice feature. It means you don’t have to drag your bike and risk ruining your floor, making it easier to transport bikes over 100 pounds. 
• Heart rate handles: Most bikes are compatible with heart rate monitors, but it’s even more convenient to have handles with heart rate reading capability. Unfortunately, you’ll tend only to see these on upright or recumbent bikes in the premium price range.

Resistance Types

There are three types of resistance for exercise bikes: fan-based, electromagnetic, and mechanical. 

• Fan-based: An air bike is fan-based and creates resistance by the fan blades displacing air. This style offers a (theoretically) unlimited amount of resistance because the harder you pedal and push, the more air the blades will displace, causing greater resistance. 
• Electromagnetic: These bikes work with magnets on either side of the flywheel. As the magnets get closer to the flywheel, they apply more resistance. Because they use magnets, these bikes are smoother, quieter, have lower maintenance, and are easier to select during workouts but more expensive. 
• Mechanical: This style uses mechanical resistance in the form of friction pads made from wool or rubber. Most are designed so that you physically twist the resistance knob to add or remove the tension placed on the flywheel. Because of the friction, these bikes are noisier and often need more maintenance as pads wear out and become misaligned with heavy use — however, they are cheaper as a result.

Drive Type

When you turn the pedals on an exercise bike, the “drive” is connected to the flywheel; when that moves, you’ll feel resistance. There are two types of drives: chain and belt. 

A chain-driven exercise bike will be more durable because the chain is metal, which makes maintenance cheaper in the long run. Unfortunately, it requires regular lubrication to ensure metal parts glide smoothly along each other. Also, chains are noisier than belts and feel rougher, so they’re often in fan-based and mechanical bikes.

Belt drives are quieter and smoother, so they’re usually in magnetic resistance bikes. The downside to a belt-drive bike is that the belt can loosen over time with heavy use and won’t last nearly as long as a chain — costing you more over time.

Resistance Levels

Exercise bikes have a vast range of resistance levels. Because there are also different types of resistance, there’s no universal standard or comparison method.

While knowing how many resistance levels there are on the exercise bike is helpful, the best way to see whether it offers the rate resistance range is to test it in person.

Once you have an exercise bike in mind, look for a local store where you can test it out in their showroom. Remember to bring your athletic attire and cycling shoes if you have them.

Warranties 

There’s a massive range of warranties for exercise bikes, from as little as 30 days to as long as 15 years. I wouldn’t recommend settling with any less than a one-year warranty. 

Based on the exercise bikes included in this article, ten years on the frame, three years on parts, and one year on labor is a solid warranty to look for if you value peace of mind from your purchase.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is an essential factor that affects the safety and durability of the bike because it reflects the craftsmanship and quality of the materials and parts used to build it. Choosing a bike with a higher weight capacity usually means getting a more robust frame and more durable parts like the pedals and flywheel. 

Exercise bike weight capacities range from 200 pounds to over 400 pounds. 

If you’re a heavier user, I’d recommend choosing a bike with a weight limit of at least 125 percent of your body weight. The closer you are to the bike’s weight capacity, the higher the risk of damaging it or injuring yourself. The bike can also become unstable, noisy, or shaky, reducing the quality of your workout.

Flywheel Weight 

If you’re investing in the best exercise bike overall, flywheel weight should be one of the top things you consider. The flywheel is the heavy wheel at the front or back of the bike that spins when you pedal to create momentum. It’s linked to the pedals by a chain or a belt, similar to one in your car’s engine.

Flywheel weights can vary widely, from as little as six pounds to as much as 50 pounds. Most people will have a better biking experience with a heavier flywheel because it closely simulates riding a bike outside. I recommend looking for a flywheel between 14 and 20 kilograms (about 30 to 44 pounds). Typically, a heavier flywheel offers a smoother ride. 

Suppose you’re working with a tight budget. In that case, I encourage you to sacrifice some bells and whistles like a sleek built-in tablet or a monthly class subscription because the flywheel weight is crucial for an enjoyable riding experience.

As a caveat, one Breaking Muscle staff member has used the Keiser M3i Bike extensively, with a flywheel weight of just eight pounds. It’s positioned at the bike’s rear to provide a different feel, but it can still offer an intense workout.

Final Thoughts

Exercise bikes have transformed home fitness, offering amazing exercise variety and adjustability in a small space.

The best exercise bikes combine interactive tech and powerful metric tracking without going overboard on the price.

At the end of the day, the best exercise bike for you depends on your budget, the size of your workout space, and the exercise bike features you value most.

Best Exercise Bikes: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Exercise Bike Overall

Best Air Bike

Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Best Spin Exercise Bike

Best Portable Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

Best Affordable Exercise Bike

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Folding Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

Concept2 BikeErg

CAROL Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

Cubii Move

Peloton Bike+

Primary Rating: 4.5

Primary Rating: 4.4

Primary Rating: 3.6

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 3.9

Primary Rating: 3.9

Primary Rating: 4.1

Primary Rating: 4.2

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 4.0

Primary Rating: 4.3

Primary Rating: 3.8

Primary Rating: 4.4

Description: Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H Resistance levels: 24 Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription) Weight capacity: 350 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H Weight: 125 pounds Weight capacity: 330 pounds Display: High-contrast LCD screen

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H Resistance levels: 32 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H Weight: 130 pounds Weight capacity: 300 pounds Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

Description: Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5" Weight: 68 pounds Weight capacity: 350 pounds Display: PM5 monitor

Description: Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W Resistance levels: Not listed Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 325 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: No Weight capacity: 270 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H Resistance levels: 25 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H Resistance levels: Seven Available programming: No Weight capacity: 250 pounds Type: Recumbent (foldable)

Description: Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H Resistance levels: Eight Available programming: No Weight capacity: Not listed Type: Under desk

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 297 pounds Type: Spin

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Best Exercise Bike Overall

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best
Air Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

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Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

Primary Rating:

3.6

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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Best Spin
Exercise Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

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Best Portable Exercise Bike

Concept2 BikeErg

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

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Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

CAROL Bike

Primary Rating:

4.1

Description:

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Affordable Exercise Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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Best Folding Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

Primary Rating:

4.3

Description:

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

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Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Cubii Move

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

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Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

Peloton Bike+

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

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FAQs

The post 13 Best Exercise Bikes for Home Gyms (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As we age, our NAD levels drop, leading to a decline in these functions. Not surprisingly, this contributes to the aging process. This is why people are trying to maintain or boost their NAD levels. Experts believe maintaining higher levels of NAD can potentially slow down aging and promote longevity. (18)

One of the ways to increase NAD levels is with NMN supplements. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to NAD, meaning it’s a substance that the body can convert into NAD. It’s like a raw material that cells can use to create more of the NAD ‘currency’ they need to function optimally.

With two decades of experience as a personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist, I’ve witnessed a shift in client inquiries from how to get six-pack abs to a desire for longevity and improved quality of life. People don’t just want to live longer; they want to feel better too. While exercise and diet are important, NMN supplements offer a promising way to naturally boost NAD levels. For my review, I tested several options to help you find the best NMN supplement.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best NMN Supplements

I’d argue that choosing the best NMN supplement is more difficult than most other supplements because it hasn’t been on the market for very long. With limited time for rigorous scrutiny, finding products that truly align with the science can be a challenge.

Here at Breaking Muscle, there are several factors that we consider to ensure you get the best NMN supplements for your budget and lifestyle.

Science-Based Formulas

We give priority to products featuring ingredients backed by proven scientific evidence. 

Ingredients such as NMN, resveratrol, and vitamin D have consistently demonstrated anti-aging benefits in studies. (5)(8) (14)

What’s more, we evaluate the dosage of each ingredient, aiming to closely align it with the quantities shown in these studies for maximum effectiveness.

Third-Party Verification

Let’s face it: Supplements that undergo third-party testing instill greater confidence. 

We’ve favored products that have been through legitimate testing by independent laboratories, assuring purity and potency.

Real-World User Feedback

Real-life experiences offer invaluable insights. We’ve conducted a thorough review of user feedback, meticulously examining reports of effectiveness, benefits, and any potential drawbacks to provide you with a comprehensive assessment.

Company Reputation

The track record of a brand matters. We’ve chosen companies with a reputation for integrity, transparency, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Balancing Value

Our aim is to recommend supplements that strike the right balance between cost and effectiveness, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.

Safety

Above all, your well-being is our top concern. We’ve focused on supplements that incorporate proven, safe ingredients without unnecessary additives or fillers. 

Naturally, products associated with a long history of adverse effects have been excluded from our list.

Our Top Picks for the Best NMN Supplement

• Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN
• Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
• Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol
• Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+
• Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN

Lifeforce Peak NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

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I’ve been a big fan of Lifeforce since I tried the brand in my search for the best testosterone booster. Once again, they didn’t disappoint. In fact, the team and I were so impressed with Peak NMN that we assigned it as our best NMN supplement overall.

What clinched it for us? 

A combination of science-backed ingredients at doses that work, all without breaking the bank. Plus, Peak NMN targets something special: it not only supports long-term cellular health but also takes on blood sugar — a key factor in aging. Consistently elevated blood sugar can damage mitochondria or cellular ‘powerhouses’ and contribute to age-related diseases. (1)

Lifeforce tackles this with two key ingredients: Berberine HCl (660 milligrams) and White Mulberry Extract (200 milligrams), both proven to support healthy blood sugar levels. It also includes spermidine, which helps with cellular growth and renewal. It’s known for aiding in autophagy, the body’s way of cleaning out old cellular junk to make way for new, healthier cells. (2)(3)(4)

Naturally, Lifeforce’s star ingredient is NMN, which has been shown to boost NAD levels, helping to keep your cells strong. NAD plays a significant role in all cellular processes, most notably, energy production, DNA repair, and the regulation of cellular aging. (5)

For me, one of the features of Peak NMN that stands out from other NMN supplements is its quality and stability. It contains HPLC-tested NMN boasting 99 percent purity and a 24-month shelf life. 

Not only are you getting the highest quality form of NMN but it’s also going to last much longer than most other NMN supplements. For context, most brands of NMN have a three-month shelf life when stored at room temperature. To get around this, simply put your NMN supplement in the refrigerator.

Finally, one of my favorite features of Lifeforce supplements is the option to add a specialized home blood test that evaluates dozens of biomarkers focusing on aging and longevity. This test, supported by telehealth consultations and individualized guidance from a healthcare professional, aims to provide insights into biological age, cellular health, and factors influencing lifespan. Taking these tests before and several months after consistently using the supplement (and following the advice of the telehealth experts) can showcase how your cellular health is improving.

One of the team members at Breaking Muscle went through this Lifeforce Diagnostics test, and he was amazed at the professionalism of the team as well as the preciseness and quality of the information he received from it. He especially liked the convenience factor of having a phlebotomist come to the location of his choice. It’s very easy to schedule and the whole process takes less than 10 minutes from the comfort of your home.

Why didn’t Peak NMN get a perfect score? My only gripe with the supplement is the dosage of NMN. Sure, it provides 375 milligrams per serving, which may be enough if you’re new to NMN and want to avoid potential side effects like digestive issues and skin irritation. But what happens when your body adjusts, and you want to take a dosage closer to 1,000 milligrams (the higher end of the recommended daily dose)? 

Compare the 375 milligrams of NMN in Peak NMN to the 900 milligram serving in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN – A huge difference. If you want to get close to this when taking Peak NMN, you’ll have to either double the dose or take a separate NMN supplement. If you choose the latter, I’d recommend going with our choice for the best budget NMN supplement, Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+, to save some cash.

Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

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On a list of NMN supplements all claiming to reduce the impacts of aging, how does one stand above the rest as the best anti-aging NMN supplement?

For us, it’s all about a multi-targeted approach to fight the signs of aging. In other words, we want to see a supplement with multiple ingredients known for longevity benefits. And that’s what sets Wonderfeel Youngr NMN apart from the rest.

NMN is one of several anti-aging ingredients in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN. Let’s break down the ingredient list, starting from the top with vitamin D3. This is one of my favorite vitamins and one that I believe most people are lacking in.

Vitamin D3 is often associated with bone health, but it does so much more than that. When it comes to anti-aging benefits, vitamin D3 enhances immune function, supports cardiovascular health, and staves off cognitive decline. (14)

For men, vitamin D3 is especially important for hormonal health as it acts as a building block for testosterone. Low levels of testosterone are associated with weight gain, muscle loss, mood swings, and fatigue – All things that are pro-aging. (15)

Most importantly for our purposes, vitamin D3 is particularly useful because it seems to help stop the build-up of certain proteins that are commonly found in older people. Also, taking extra vitamin D3 may help reduce signs of aging at the cellular level, which suggests it might help to slow down how quickly we age biologically. (14)

There is one issue with the inclusion of vitamin D3 and it’s the exclusion of vitamin K2. When you take supplements, you want to try to pair or group ingredients that have a synergistic effect. In this case, vitamin K2 improves the bioavailability of vitamin D3. I’m not saying your body won’t see any benefit from the vitamin D3 in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN, but some level of bioavailability and potential benefit could be lacking thanks to the absence of vitamin K2.

NMN is the next ingredient on the list. What I love about Wonderfeel Youngr NMN is that it provides a dosage level that’s on the higher side at 900 milligrams per serving. As mentioned above, this is close to what David Sinclair takes on a daily basis.

Next up, we have trans-resveratrol. Again, this is another homerun ingredient. Trans-resveratrol is better than traditional resveratrol because it is the more bioavailable and biologically active form of the compound. While it is the preferred form of resveratrol, it is lacking in dosage at only 100 milligrams per serving. For reference, the standard dosage starts at 250 milligrams.

The next ingredient is olive fruit extract, which contains hydroxytyrosol, a powerful antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health by promoting healthy cholesterol levels and blood flow (circulation). It also has a lot of polyphenols and these compounds offer protective effects against oxidative stress—a key factor in aging—and inflammation, contributing to overall longevity. (16)

Finally, the ingredient list caps off with a super antioxidant known as ergothioneine, offering benefits for anti-aging, vascular health, and neuroprotection. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation, which reduces age-related cellular damage. It’s also thought to preserve telomeres, the chromosome endcaps that typically shorten with age. (17)

Cementing its place as the best anti-aging NMN supplement, is there anything that could make this supplement better? 

You bet! It is the first supplement on our list that focuses on earth-friendly packaging. Your first order will arrive in a durable and refillable glass bottle. After that, you’ll receive your supplement in completely recyclable and biodegradable pouches. Simply refill the glass bottle and recycle the pouch. Even if the pouch winds up in the garbage, it will break down within six to 42 months, leaving behind no trace of microplastics.

Do something positive for yourself while doing something productive for the environment.

Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

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When the longevity trend started, the abbreviations “NMN” and “NAD” were virtually unheard of. Instead, everyone was talking about resveratrol. Just because NMN is now taking center stage within the cellular health and longevity movement doesn’t mean resveratrol is obsolete. In fact, we recommend taking them both together. And that’s why our pick for the best NMN and resveratrol supplement is Omre NMN + Resveratrol.

What exactly is resveratrol?

A type of antioxidant known as a polyphenol, resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and berries as well as cocoa. Antioxidants fight against oxidative stress in your body, which is caused by an excess of free radicals. These are molecules that can damage cells and they are linked to several chronic diseases along with aging.

And this is where resveratrol comes in as an all-around longevity supplement. 

From a cardiovascular standpoint, resveratrol has been shown to support heart health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Some research even suggests it can support healthy blood sugar levels. (Remember what we said above about blood sugar levels and aging?) (6)(7)

For our purposes, the most important benefits of resveratrol are its anti-aging properties, which include:

• DNA repair: Activates proteins called sirtuins, aiding in DNA repair and cellular health. (8)
• Antioxidant properties: Protects cells against oxidative stress, which contributes to aging. (9)
• Cognitive protection: Offers neuroprotective effects that may slow neurodegenerative diseases. (10)
• Cellular health: Improves mitochondrial function, leading to increased energy production and cellular vitality. (11)

Combining resveratrol with NMN may offer synergistic benefits. Most notably, the antioxidant activity of resveratrol complements the role of NMN in supporting mitochondrial (cellular) function.

I love the idea of combining two longevity heavy hitters. This is something you don’t see in many NMN supplements. And the fact that Omre uses trans-resveratrol earns it extra points. Why? Trans-resveratrol is the more bioavailable form of resveratrol meaning your body can properly ingest and assimilate the ingredient.

What’s more, both ingredients are dosed at 500 milligrams per serving, well within the same range used in studies and research. If you are interested in gradually building up to a higher dose, you can simply double your dose and you’ll be within the same range as longevity expert, David Sinclair.

Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

3.5

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

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If there’s one thing that you’ll quickly notice about NMN supplements, it’s the price tag. The sticker shock is going to naturally lead to the question of whether the best budget NMN supplement exists and if it’s worth buying. Thankfully, that can be answered with a double “yes.”

Introducing Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+.

There are three major differences between Genuine Purity NMN and the rest of the options on this list: price, dosage, and bioavailability.

Let’s start with the obvious one: price. Even if you purchase a single bottle of Genuine Purity, you’re only paying $1.17 per serving, which is half of what some of the other brands are charging. If you want an insanely good deal for inexpensive supplements, you can’t beat buying one year’s worth upfront.

But there’s a reason for the lower price point and it has to do with ingredients and dosage. The only ingredient you’ll find in Genuine Purity is NMN. So, if you want those other ingredients that support longevity and cellular health, you’ll have to buy them separately and build your own stack. This is something I highly recommend. Not only can it be more cost-effective, but you’re guaranteed to get the proper dosage.

Speaking of dosages, you’ll see that it’s on the lower end of what the major studies used. Most of the studies mentioned above used anywhere from 250 milligrams to 1,250 milligrams. Genuine Purity provides 250 milligrams of NMN, which is among the lowest on our list. It isn’t bad if you’re just starting out and you want to see how your body responds to NMN, but for the long term, you’ll need to double or triple the dosage. 

Here’s the thing about that: At this price point, that’s still a good deal! If you buy a year upfront, you can easily triple your dosage and it’ll still end up being cheaper than most of the other NMN supplements out there.

Finally, let’s talk about bioavailability, which might be a double-edged sword for Genuine Purity. On one hand, it uses liposomal delivery technology, which can significantly enhance the absorption of NMN into the bloodstream. Liposomal delivery means that the NMN is encased in a sort of protective bubble made from lipids (fats). As a result, the NMN can bypass the harsh acids in the digestive system and get delivered directly into the cells where it’s needed most. (12)

On the other hand, not all liposomal products are created equal. The quality and size of the liposomes, as well as the stability of the liposomal structure, can greatly affect the uptake of NMN. Luckily, Genuine Purity claims to use high-quality liposomal encapsulation to ensure that you’re getting the most out of each serving.

One final point about bioavailability involves the shelf stability of the product. NMN supplements are notorious for having a poor shelf life. Yes, brands do spend the extra cash to ensure a longer shelf life like Lifeforce: Peak NMN. However, Genuine Purity doesn’t mention anything about an extended shelf life. As I mentioned above, if your aim is to take double or triple the serving size, shelf life isn’t something you’ll need to worry about.

Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

partiQlar Pure NMN

4.0

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

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It should come as no surprise that the quality of supplements can range drastically. Take protein supplements as an example. If you buy whey protein concentrate, you might be getting a product that’s only 60% protein. If you buy whey protein isolate, you’ll get a hyper-filtered product that can deliver over 99% protein per serving. Both are protein supplements, but one is vastly superior to the other in terms of purity.

And the same goes for NMN supplements.

Purity or how much NMN you’re getting in every serving can vary wildly depending on the brand. On our list, we made sure to find products that had no less than 96% purity, which is the minimum you should always look for when shopping for an NMN supplement. With a product that pure, does it really matter which one you choose? 

Absolutely. Those last few purity points can really make a difference especially if it’s paired with a bioavailability delivery system ensuring optimal uptake.

When it comes to the best pure NMN supplement, partiQlar Pure NMN gets our vote for three reasons: a pure product, a knack for transparency, and an awesome team.

partiQlar’s NMN boasts an industry-leading purity that exceeds 99% and that’s a huge deal. This isn’t just some marketing ploy, it’s a claim that’s backed up by independent third-party laboratory testing. If you visit the official website, you’ll see that all the test results are right there on the homepage. (13)

Aside from the absurdly high purity of partiQlar’s NMN, one of the factors that I noticed is how transparent they are about the team behind the product. Not only is this pretty uncommon for NMN supplements, but you’d be hard-pressed to find this transparency with any supplement.

Knowing who is making your product means you can become a Google investigator and do your research for your own peace of mind (and to appease your supplement OCD). Very long story short: partiQlar sources their NMN from Effepharm. According to the official website, they are supposedly renowned for their research and development team of U.S. specialists along with their rigorous testing process.

Continuing with the idea of transparency and testing, partiQlar upholds rigorous standards to align with USP (United States Pharmacopeia) quality benchmarks. Also, the production facilities responsible for crafting partiQlar’s NMN are recognized by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), reflecting adherence to the stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.

Now, with that said, adhering to GMP guidelines is commonplace even if a supplement doesn’t specifically mention it on their website. Supplement manufacturers in the United States must adhere to GMP standards in order to operate. So, while it’s not exactly unique, it is nice to know that your supplements are in good hands.

In short, with an elite team, production facilities, and third-party testing, partiQlar is serious about the purity and effectiveness of its NMN.

What Is NMN?

Aside from being almost impossible to pronounce correctly on the first try, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has an essential role in all cellular functions. 

The catch is that NAD levels naturally decline as you get older. This can lead to a variety of age-related health issues like slowing metabolism and cellular dysfunction. In a vicious cycle, the less NAD you have, the worse these issues get and the faster you age.

Enter nicotinamide mononucleotide, or NMN, a precursor to NAD. 

Put simply, NMN is what your body uses to make more NAD. Recent studies and praise from longevity experts like David Sinclair have sparked interest in NMN supplements to naturally boost NAD levels. 

The goal? To fight back against age-related decline in cellular health while improving overall longevity.

Benefits of Taking NMN

As a precursor to NAD, research suggests several potential health benefits associated with NMN supplementation:

Anti-Aging and Longevity 

NMN has exhibited numerous potential benefits against aging in different animal studies, including better metabolism and protection against diseases that come with age. Research suggests it may boost energy management within the body and enhance the body’s response to insulin as well as overall blood fat levels. (19)

Increased Energy Metabolism and Physical Activity

Supplementation with NMN has been suggested to improve energy expenditure and physical activity. A study indicated that NMN supplementation enhances neuronal function and physical activity, suggesting it may prevent the decline in energy metabolism associated with aging​​. (20)

Enhanced Physical Endurance and Metabolism

Continuing with the point above, research has found that NMN supplementation can improve endurance capacity, particularly in amateur runners, by enhancing oxygen delivery to muscle tissue and bringing energy to cells that are depleted during exercise​​. (20)

Cognitive and Cardiovascular Health

NMN supplementation has been linked to improved neuronal function in the brain and is suggested to have preventive and therapeutic potential in vascular cognitive impairment. (21)

How Long Does It Take for NMN to Start Working?

The one thing that I can’t stress enough is that NMN supplements are not like your favorite pre-workout supplements. You’re not going to feel them kick in with a bang after 20 minutes.

While several prominent biohackers suggest that you can use NMN as a nootropic (cognitive focus) supplement, I don’t agree with this. I believe the idea with NMN supplements is to promote improved cognitive function over the long term.

Besides, most nootropic-focused NMN supplements also contain other fast-acting ingredients that you’ll feel right away like caffeine and theobromine. Be sure not to confuse longevity supplements with nootropics.

It’s important to keep in mind that NMN is a long-term investment in your cellular health and overall longevity. So, don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Stay consistent with your NMN supplement. The best way to determine if NMN is working for you is to take a biological age test once every several months and compare the differences. As mentioned above, we highly recommend Lifeforce Diagnostic, which measures more than 40 biomarkers and includes a personalized plan to optimize your health.

What Is the Best Way to Take NMN?

Hands down, the gold standard of absorption is intravenous. If you have the money and the time, you can find NAD drips at your local health spa. The results are immediate with many people citing a difference in how they feel the same day and throughout the week. The catch? NAD drips are notorious for making you nauseous. They are also extremely pricey. 

The simpler and more affordable way is with the NMN supplement.

NMN can be a bit finicky when it comes to how it’s best absorbed. The consensus is that sublingual (under the tongue) absorption is the way to go. This method allows NMN to bypass your digestive system and head straight into your bloodstream for faster results.

How Much NMN Should I Take Per Day?

This really depends on how comfortable you are with taking a “David Sinclair dose.” Some people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day. 

But if you want to play it safe, many beginners start with around 250 milligrams to 500 milligrams per day. This is a good baseline to see how your body responds. As you continue to take the NMN supplement, you can gradually increase the dosage, but only if it makes sense for your goals and budget. 

What To Consider When Looking for an NMN Supplement

When shopping for an NMN supplement, here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:

Your Goals

When looking for an NMN supplement, I suggest asking yourself, “What do I want to accomplish by taking this?” 

• Do you want to support long-term longevity in your body and brain? 
• Are you looking to lower your biological (cellular) age?
• Or are you looking for something fast-acting that can help you focus?

If the first two goals sound like what you’re after, then an NMN supplement can be a great complement to a healthy diet and exercise program.

If you’re more interested in that third goal, an NMN supplement isn’t going to give you what you’re after. As I mentioned above, although NMN is sometimes marketed as a nootropic, it’s not going to give you a feeling comparable to caffeine. Only stimulants will do that and NMN is not a stimulant.

So, before you buy an NMN supplement, make sure it aligns with what you’re trying to accomplish in your health journey.

Recommended Dosage

The typical dosage for NMN supplements ranges between 250 milligrams and 1,250 milligrams. 

Should you start with a lower dosage? That really depends on your comfort level. 

Plenty of people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day without any issues. If you’re someone who is new to NMN or supplements in general, consider starting out with 250 milligrams. If your body responds well to this dosage for a few weeks, gradually increase it. You can do that by simply doubling the serving that you’re currently taking.

With all that said, always consider speaking with a healthcare provider to help tailor your choice of the proper dosage based on your medical history and goals.

Ingredients and Ingredient Quality

You know you want to take an NMN supplement and you’re confident about the dosage. Now it’s time to make sure you’re getting quality ingredients. 

Here are several factors to look for when buying an NMN supplement:

• Purity: Buy an NMN supplement that contains at least 96 percent purity.
• Third-party testing: Look for products that have been third-party tested for quality assurance.
• Certifications: Certifications such as GMP or NSF signify a product’s high-quality manufacturing.
• Complementary ingredients: Check that added ingredients enhance efficacy and offer additional health benefits.
• Additives and fillers: Avoid supplements with unnecessary additives, fillers, or any low-quality ingredients.
• Product reviews and company reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation and read customer reviews to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of the product.

Safety

NMN supplements shouldn’t be a gamble. You should be able to confidently take your choice of supplement without worrying about your safety. 

Here are some tips to keep yourself safe when shopping for NMN supplements:

• Check for interactions with medications. If you are currently taking medication, it’s crucial to understand how NMN might interact with those medications. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential negative interactions.
• Ensure the supplement is backed by clinical research. Look for supplements that have been supported by clinical research. While research on NMN is still emerging, some products may have more scientific backing than others.
• Ensure the brand adheres to safe manufacturing standards. Check to see if the supplement is produced in facilities that follow high safety standards, such as GMP-certified facilities. This ensures that the product is made with a high degree of consistency and control.

Potential Side Effects

NMN supplements are usually very safe and easy to handle. Still, some side effects have been reported, including the following:

• Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and indigestion
• Skin irritation and allergic reactions
• Flushing and headaches

If you experience any of these, reducing the dosage or discontinuing use may be necessary. Either way, I’d recommend speaking with your doctor. Also, be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure the side effects are coming from the NMN and not another ingredient.

If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of NMN supplements, start with a lower dosage like 250 milligrams, and gradually increase it to gauge your body’s tolerance. Keep a close watch on your body’s reactions after starting NMN supplementation. Any new or unexpected symptoms should be taken seriously and discussed with a healthcare provider.

How To Get the Best Results from an NMN Supplement

There’s more to throwing a supplement capsule in your mouth and going about your day. If you want to get the most from your NMN supplement, here are several tips to consider:

Be Consistent

Above all, if you want to see results, you need to be consistent with taking your supplement. When taken at the same time each day, NMN supplements can help maintain stable levels of NAD in the body. 

In addition to consistency, the timing of your NMN dose might play a role in its efficacy. (And I stress the word “might.”)

There’s some evidence to suggest that taking NMN in the morning could align with your body’s natural rhythms for producing NAD. 

On the other hand, I’ve read that some experts recommend taking NMN at night to help with sleep. 

Does it matter? Overall, I’d recommend finding a time that works best for you and sticking with it. Better to be consistent with taking the supplement than trying to time it perfectly amidst a chaotic schedule and missing doses.

Remember That Diet and Exercise Come First 

Don’t forget, supplements are just part of the equation. As I always say to my clients, “Supplements are supplemental.” They should never be the star of the show – That privilege belongs to diet and exercise.

Eating right and staying active are essential if you want to see the best results. Before considering supplements, I’d suggest reviewing your current fitness and meal plan. Could they use some work? If so, then focus your time, energy, and money on those first.

Once your foundations with food and fitness are solid, then you can bring supplements into the mix.

Consider Synergistic Supplements

Assuming your diet and exercise program are all taken care of, you can look at longevity supplements beyond NMN.

While incredible on its own, NMN can be part of a broader supplement strategy. For example, combining NMN with resveratrol, a compound that also supports cellular health, may enhance the effects of NMN.

This isn’t a requirement but something to consider if your goal is to optimize anti-aging benefits and longevity.

Monitoring Progress and Adjust

Finally, I’d recommend keeping track of how you feel before and after starting the NMN supplement. Use the notepad on your phone and track any changes in energy levels, cognitive function, and overall wellness to gauge the supplement’s effectiveness.

Outside of noting how you feel, if you’re serious about tracking your results, I’d suggest a biomarkers panel test like the one Lifeforce offers. Doing this every quarter or every six months will give you the best idea of how you’re progressing and the changes you might need to make, especially if you’re chatting with a longevity expert.

Final Thoughts

I’m glad that longevity is finally a big focus in the industry. I’m ecstatic when clients ask me questions about living a longer life AND feeling better during those extended years.

Most importantly, I believe that NMN supplements have the potential to play an important role in achieving those anti-aging goals.

However, I’m still a big believer in the basics. 

There’s no “magic pill” that’s going to keep you young forever — at least, not yet there isn’t. Until that day arrives, I can’t stress this enough: Focus on mastering your nutritional choices, get consistent with an exercise program, and consider mental health exercises like meditation so you can live a well-balanced, healthy life. Once these are in order, you can complement your lifestyle with NMN supplements.

Best NMN Supplement: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best NMN Supplement Overall	Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement	Best Budget NMN Supplement	Best Pure NMN Supplement	Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement
Lifeforce Peak NMN	Omre NMN + Resveratrol	Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+	partiQlar Pure NMN	Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.5
Description: Daily dose: Three capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving NMN per serving: 375 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine  Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving NMN per serving: 250 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving NMN per serving: 900 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine Third-party testing: Yes
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best NMN Supplement Overall

Lifeforce Peak NMN

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

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Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

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Best Budget NMN Supplement

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

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Best Pure NMN Supplement

partiQlar Pure NMN

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

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Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

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FAQs

Research

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The post Best NMN Supplement: Fountain of Youth in a Bottle? (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

But not all wrist wraps are created equal. Depending on your goals, preferences, and type of training, you’ll need a different style of wrist wrap. Some wraps are longer and stiffer, while others are shorter and more comfortable. Whether you’re into bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, or CrossFit, you’ll find the ideal pair of wrist wraps on this list for you.

How We Chose the Best Wrist Wraps

We’re a diverse team of certified fitness experts, exercise enthusiasts, and knowledgeable product testers. We have dozens of years of combined experience using wrist wraps for various activities and sports, and we tried out more than a dozen different pairs of wrist wraps specifically for this guide.

To help you choose the best wrist wraps for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the eight top-rated wrist wraps on the market. We’ve reviewed their features, benefits, pros, and cons and compared them. During testing, we judged wrist wraps on their materials and construction, length and stiffness, closure mechanism, price, and more — rating each wrist wrap with a score between 1 to 5.

Our Top Picks for the Best Wrist Wraps

• Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
• Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps
• Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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The Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps offer great wrist support. They’re 18 inches long, which gives you at least two wraps around your wrist if you have an average build. I find the 18-inch length to be just right; it’s not so long that there’s a ton of bulk on my wrists due to the extra material, and their support is adequate for most weight training exercises.

Their three-inch width provides plenty of wrist coverage, covering enough of the base of your hand and wrist area for the wrap to do its job. Also, the cotton-elastic blend gives enough stretch for solid compression and wrist support in your workouts. I especially like the blended material of these wraps  — they’re soft, and the cotton breathes enough to help avoid excess sweating in the first place.

Moreover, the Velcro closure system of the Classic Wrist Wraps is intuitive and easy to use. The thumb loop offers an excellent anchor point to help put them on tightly, and, unlike other brands, the double-stitching is high quality. I especially like how the Velcro section is sticky and well-sized. Some brands use such a long strip that can cause the extra material to hang off the end, which can get caught on things and unravel your wraps. Plus, the thumb loop makes it easy to hang over a hook to dry between workouts. 

One of my favorite features of the Iron Bull wraps is their multi-functionality. They’re suitable for various training styles, from bodybuilding and Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit and powerlifting.  Their 18-inch length and cotton-elastic blend make them lightweight on your wrists for the dynamic workouts of CrossFit and supportive enough for heavier powerlifting. This means that you can continue using them when you want to switch up your training styles without having to buy a different pair of wrist wraps.

Unfortunately, the Iron Bulls aren’t perfect. The 18-inch length is a solid general length, but most people with average wrists will only be able to get two revolutions of the wraps around their wrists. This means you’ll have less support on heavier lifts, which might be noticeable if you’re at an advanced level in powerlifting.

On that note, these wrist wraps are USPA, IPL, IWF, and USAW-approved… but they aren’t approved for use in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). Suppose you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in the highest level of powerlifting in the future and want to use wrist wraps in competition. In that case, this means you’d have to buy a separate pair that’s approved for IPF use — you might want to consider the SBD Wrist Wraps instead if that applies to you.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their great wrist support, easy-to-use Velcro closure system, and multi-functionality for different training styles. 

RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment Essentials for Cardio, Strength Training, and More

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The standout feature of the SBD Wrist Wraps is that they’re IPF-approved. Investing in a pair of wrist wraps that you can practice with allows you to push your training harder, so you can (hopefully) get even stronger while getting comfortable using them before a competition. This way, you’ll step on the platform confidently in your support wear — letting you focus entirely on executing your attempts instead of worrying about your gear and how it’s fitting.

If you live and breathe powerlifting, these wrist wraps will not disappoint. They’re designed specifically for excellent wrist support; the thumb loop is heavy-duty and attached along industrial-grade fastening. But they didn’t stop there. 

SBD crafted them to match the maximum allowable width of 8 centimeters/3.15 inches, so you’ll get the best coverage between your hand and wrist for a solid cast-like level of support. They even have proprietary wide elastics in these wraps. One customer who bought the stiff mediums said they took a few times to break in, but after that, they give you the best protection from heavy weights. I’m seriously impressed and confident that whether you’re pushing new bench press PRs or back squat records, these wraps will help you hit them safely.

What surprised me the most about the SBDs is their range of lengths and stiffnesses. On their product page, they have three different lengths available: small (15.7 inches long), medium (23.6 inches long), or large (39.4 inches long). Combined with their detailed sizing chart, this means that whether you have small, average, or large wrists, you can find a wrist wrap length that will work great for you. 

Their two stiffness options, flexible or stiff, are built with varying amounts of polyester and rubber (elastic). For example, the flexible wraps have a 70% polyester-30% rubber blend that allows some wrist flexion and improved comfort due to the higher amount of polyester. The stiff wraps are woven with significantly more rubber, giving them more stretch and compression to fully immobilize your wrists. SBD mentions that most athletes will prefer the medium-length flexible wraps, but use their size guide to determine the ideal length for you.

These wrist wraps might be uncomfortable, especially if you choose their “stiff” option. One reviewer mentioned that their large-sized stiff wraps are excellent but can get really tight and start to cut off blood circulation to their wrists. 

When I didn’t see the material specs on their product page, a Breaking Muscle staff member reached out through their live chat and discovered that the stiff wrist wraps are 56 percent rubber (elastic) and 44 percent polyester blend. With over half the wraps’ material being elastic and zero cotton included, it’s no surprise these can be a tad uncomfortable.

It should come as no surprise that excellent quality comes at a price. At the time of writing, the SBDs retailed for $42.50. This makes them the most expensive wrist wraps out of all those featured in this article and possibly out of the budget of financially constrained lifters.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IPF approval, excellent build quality and durability, and various length and stiffness options available.

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps

DMoose Fitness Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Despite their affordable price, the DMOOSE Wrist wraps have a solid quality construction. The thumb loop features double stitching, so it will stand up to the rigorous Olympic lifts you’ll be performing with them. I found the Velcro fastening strip to be of good quality, so it won’t wear down within a couple of months as the poor-quality wrist wraps do.

These wrist wraps from DMOOSE are the best for weightlifting because, unlike other wrist wraps featured in this article, these have no polyester included. When woven with elastic, cotton is more flexible compared to polyester, and this pays off big time for the Olympic lifts. 

This lack of restriction allows you enough wrist mobility for your wrists to rotate freely in the snatch and to extend fully in the front rack portion of the clean and jerk. Despite its flexibility, the cotton-elastic blend still gives noticeable wrist support when the bar is extended overhead in the final step of both exercises.

I appreciate that these wrist wraps are offered in a 12-inch and an 18-inch option. The latter will fit and work well for average-sized wrists, but the former is still useful. Even though they’ll outgrow them, 12-inch long wrist wraps would be the ideal length for most teenagers because their bones are still growing, and the wrist wrap length they need is significantly smaller than that of the average adult. 

However, you might also find the 12-inch length useful if you are petite and/or have extremely small wrists – make sure to use the sizing chart before ordering a 12-inch size just to be sure it’s the right fit.

Although the 12-inch length is an option, I wouldn’t recommend it if you have average-sized wrists. 12 inches won’t give you enough length on the wraps to get an adequate number of revolutions for the wraps to provide significant support.

Sadly, it doesn’t look like these wrist wraps are approved for any weightlifting federations. This means that if you want to wear wrist wraps in a future weightlifting competition, you’ll have to invest in a separate pair to use them in both your training and your competitions.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their Olympic lifting-friendly design, two length options, and comfortable material.

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These are the best wrist wraps for CrossFit due to their lightweight, supportive design. Out of all the wrist wraps in this round-up article, this pair of 12-inch wraps is the shortest we’ve featured, but that’s good for CrossFit. 

The typical WOD can be up to 30 minutes of continuous movement, so the last thing you want to do is constantly tighten, loosen, and otherwise fiddle with your 18 to 24-inch wrist wraps. Thanks to their 12-inch length, you can’t apply the 2POODs super tight in the first place, so they’ll stay comfortable and non-constricting during the entire workout. 

Plus, the secure hook and loop closure means these wrist wraps won’t randomly fly off during your WOD, whether you’re crushing some dumbbell power snatches or butterfly pull-ups. One of our product testers explained that they could see these being an asset because you can set and forget them. 

Their cotton-polyester-elastic material is great for exercises like thrusters, where some extra wrist support can be helpful, but they won’t hamper the wrist mobility needed for handstand walks. Further, the Velcro part of the fastening system is easy to apply and adjust, so using these for the first time is a piece of cake even for beginners.

Sponsorships aren’t always an indicator of quality, but it’s hard to deny the influence that the 2POOD wrist wraps have on the CrossFit community. After all, these wrist wraps became the official wrist wraps of the NOBULL CrossFit Games. This means that they got a large amount of publicity from the athletes, who presumably ended up wearing them during the events, and the fans who attended in person or those who watched online.

Surprisingly, some customers have left reviews about how the Velcro isn’t quite what they had hoped for. Instead of the Velcro strip being higher quality and sticky, several customers mention that it didn’t last more than a month on their wrist wraps before it began deteriorating and losing its adhesiveness. For example, one customer left a note saying that the wrist wraps perform great, but they’ve been experiencing Velcro issues with one of them, so it’s not gripping as it should and is leaving them slightly disappointed.

Finally, the 2POOD wrist wraps aren’t IPF-approved, but I don’t think that matters much. Unlike the SBD wrist wraps, these aren’t designed to help you excel at powerlifting — they were made to assist your CrossFit performance.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their lightweight support, security, and easy-adjustability tension system.

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The Classic Wrist Wraps from Gymreapers are excellent for benching. They feature a heavy-duty thumb loop, so you can use your thumb to anchor the wrap down before cinching it tight. I especially appreciate the 30/70 elastic-polyester blend; this is stiffer than a cotton-elastic blend. The former is what you want when trying to bench press as much weight as possible because the more rigid polyester material will provide more stiffness. 

One customer said that these wraps have a lot of elasticity, which helps provide better support on heavy pushing movements because they’ll offer better support due to the amount of stretchiness in the material. Also, the three-inch width is generous and offers plenty of hand & wrist coverage for maximal support. 

Gymreapers has made a serious push to get their support wear certified by well-known federations, and it shows. Their wrist wraps are IPF, IPL, and USAPL-approved, which means that if you’re competing in any of these federations, you can practice with the same gear in your training as you’ll compete with on the platform for a competitive edge.

I’m blown away by their warranty, which offers a lifetime replacement — this is practically unheard of for wear-and-tear items. The benefit is that whether they fail due to a factory defect or regular old wear and tear, you have total peace of mind about getting a replacement for free. 

One commenter explained that even when they had a small issue with one of their wrist wraps, Gymreapers just sent another set. So, if you want complete peace of mind, I think these are worth it. Another reviewer mentioned that they used them all the way up to a 385-pound bench press, and they did the job. If they can hold up to a near-400-pound bench press, they can hold up to almost anything.

It’s great that they’re approved in multiple federations, but seriously strong bench pressers might not find the Gymreapers wrist wraps supportive enough. Due to their 18-inch length, these will only wrap around average-sized wrists twice instead of the three revolutions you’ll get with a 24-inch wrist wrap. Because you get one less revolution, these wraps will feel less supportive. On an elite bench press attempt, that lack of stability is not something you’ll typically want.

Compared to cotton wrist wraps, the elastic-polyester blend of the Classics is noticeably less comfortable. If you have sensitive skin or you bruise easily, you might not enjoy using these as much as you would a cotton-elastic wrist wrap like the DMOOSE Wrist Wraps.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their durable materials and construction, their approval for the IPF, IPL, and USAPL federations, and their lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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This is the second time we’ve featured the SBD Wrist Wraps in this article. Compared to the Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting section, we’ve included why they’re also our top choice for premium wrist wraps below.

First, the build quality of the SBD Wrist Wraps is excellent. From the extra-thick thumb loop with commercial-grade stitching to their proprietary wide elastics, these wrist wraps live up to the hype. That’s why we’ve named them twice on this list—their quality makes them worth the premium price point.

I’m impressed that they took note of the maximum allowable width from the IPF rules on wrist wrap dimensions and matched it. The 3.15-inch width means that your hands and wrists will get the most robust support on the market. But the story is far from over; SBD offers their wraps in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit as many lifters as possible while even catering to their wrap stiffness preferences. 

Yes, that’s right — they offer two stiffnesses to their wraps: “flexible” to allow more wrist movement and “stiff” to immobilize your wrist completely. With this quality and range of choice, it’s clear that they’re the premium wrist wrap option.

Many brands source their products from developing countries because it’s cheaper. Unfortunately, these savings often come at the expense of worse workers’ rights and unsafe manufacturing processes. The SBDs are designed and manufactured in Great Britain, so you’re supporting local manufacturing and jobs, which adds to the list of reasons these are the best premium wrist wraps.

Regarding support wear, SBD is the cream of the crop. Even though “SBD” means “Squat, Bench, Deadlift”, which refers to the power lifts themselves, the quality and workmanship that backs this brand could be why many of the top athletes in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and Strongman/Strongwoman decide to sport this gear. 

With that in mind, it’s hard to go wrong with these wrist wraps when the SBD brand is trusted by many athletes at the top of their sport. Oh, and being approved by the most stringent powerlifting federation in the world (the IPF) is a nice touch, too.

For how well-made these are, I’m amazed at their affordability. The SBDs retail at just $42.50 and they have everything you expect in a premium wrist wrap: a sturdy yet flexible material with a secure closure system — all of which is manufactured in Great Britain. Coupled with their IPF approval, two stiffness options, and three lengths, they’re the ultimate choice for anyone who wants the best wrist wraps on the market.

Unfortunately, shipping fees are not waived. I wasn’t expecting the shipping to be free, but considering the premium price and small packaging compared to larger home gym equipment items, shipping could disappoint some shoppers. Full disclosure: I did a mock checkout with these wraps, and the 3-6 business day option with USPS was only $5.00 — nothing to get worked up about.

Lastly, these wrist wraps from SBD are all in metric sizes only. For instance, the lengths are 40, 60, and 100 centimeters for the small, medium, and large wraps — respectively. This may seem trivial, but as the premium wrist wrap option in this article, it would be great to see imperial sizes offered as well for American shoppers.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their excellent quality, sizing, and stiffness options, local manufacturing, and brand trust.

Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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These wrist wraps from Gymreapers are your ticket if you want a stiff level of wrist support. First, they’re made from more rigid cotton that’s less flexible than the Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps. There’s also a reinforced elastic material woven into the cotton that strengthens the main body of the wraps. The end features a longer, flexible area with the Gymreapers logo in silicone so that maximal compression can be applied to your wrist. Even the thumb loop is thicker and has more durable stitching to avoid tears and maximize durability. 

I’m glad there are multiple length options offered for these wrist wraps. Four sizes are available: 12-inch, 18-inch, 24-inch, and 36-inch. This means that whether you have a petite wrist, an average-sized wrist, or a larger wrist thickness, you can find an ideal fit for your wrist wraps. 

However, the extra-long 36-inch wrap also allows regular lifters to size up if they want. Doing so would let you get one or two additional revolutions around your wrists with the wraps, making them even tighter and maximizing their stiffness.

Similar to the Gymreapers Classics, the stiff wraps are backed by an impressive warranty — the lifetime replacement guarantee. This warranty stipulates that you can get a free replacement for your wrist wraps throughout their life. Defect issues are also covered at no cost.

The major downside to these wraps is that they’re simply not as comfortable as standard cotton wrist wraps because of the specific cotton and reinforced elastic materials. Discomfort is just the beginning, though. In the worst-case scenario, an over-zealous wrapping job could cause bruising or minor cuts in your skin.

Honestly, I’m shocked that these aren’t IPF-approved. The Classics from Gymreapers are certified for competition use in the IPF and have less robust specs than these, so I thought for sure the same would go for their stiff wrist wraps. Their compression and material would be ideal for competitive powerlifting, warranting a submission to the IPF-approved gear application process… maybe next year?

Lastly, these wrist wraps aren’t the most affordable. They retail closely to the other most expensive pair of wrist wraps in this list, around $30 at the time of writing, but you do appear to be able to save 10 percent on your order by entering your email address into the pop-up window on their website.

All the above considered; we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their stiff, heavy-duty construction, four length options, and lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These Harbinger wrist wraps are the best budget option I found. It should come as no surprise that they’re widely affordable, roughly $16 at the time of publishing. Compared to the most expensive pair of wrist wraps on our list, the SBD Wrist Wraps, these budget-friendly ones cost you about a third of their price — before shipping fees. 

Speaking of shipping fees, these wrist wraps are sold on Amazon, which means that if you’re a Prime member, you can save even more! Two-day (or faster shipping) is often available to Prime members while shopping through Amazon, giving you access to their generous and convenient return policies.

For how well-priced these are, I’m pleasantly surprised with the features they have. They have what appears to be a decent-quality thumb loop, a durable elastic body, Velcro that looks like it will work for at least a few months, and an 18-inch length that will be suitable for most weight-lifting activities.

What caught my eye on the product page was the amount of praise these wrist wraps have received from customers. Harbinger is a well-known brand that’s been in business for years, but it’s comforting to know that most customers are happy with the quality of these wrist wraps. For example, they achieved a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 4,400 reviews. 

One Breaking Muscle staff member also saw a special notice when viewing the page that said, “Customers usually keep this item” and explained that compared to similar products, the Harbinger wrist wraps had fewer returns than average. Perhaps that’s a testament to their excellent quality.

Unfortunately, I had no luck finding their construction material on the product listing. While I wouldn’t be surprised if these were made with an extra-cheap material to cut costs even further to generate a profit, they look like a cotton-elastic blend like many wrist wraps in this list. I think it’s pretty far-fetched to expect these to be IPF-approved, considering their budget-friendly price, so don’t expect to step on a competition platform with them any time soon.

All the above considered, we rank these 3.5 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, inclusion of useful wrist wrap features, and availability of Amazon perks for Prime members.

Benefits of Using Wrist Wraps for Lifting

Wrist Stability and Support

The main benefit of using wrist wraps is stability. When worn correctly around the base of your hand and wrist, the stiffness and compression from the wrist wrap material prevent your wrist from moving — similar to how a cast immobilizes an injured limb. This effect is most noticeable in free-weight pressing exercises like the barbell bench press or barbell overhead press, where they limit wrist flexion and extension even when the weight is heavy.

However, wrist wraps will continue to support your wrists even if they flex or extend under load. For example, some lifters use wrist wraps to keep the wrists extended on their low-bar back squat, holding the barbell in the correct spot across their rear delts. Despite being bent backward with hundreds of pounds pushing down on them, powerlifters continue to set world records with extended wrists while squatting — and their wraps continue to keep their wrists safe even under these extreme loads.

Additional Support After Injury

Injuries to the hand, wrist, or forearm can sometimes prevent you from holding a barbell or dumbbell correctly, even after you’ve healed. In extreme cases, even a slight deviation from a neutral wrist position under heavy weight could cause severe pain and/or further injury. In these situations, wrist wraps may provide enough wrist stability, compression, and support for you to continue to exercise. Always consult your medical doctor to ensure you can train safely after an injury.

After breaking their wrist years ago, one of our Breaking Muscle staff members finds it still bothers them when they perform the barbell overhead press, even though it’s technically healed. Using wrist wraps on their heavier sets allows them to push the movement hard without wrist pain. 

Weight May Feel Lighter in Your Hands

The weight of a barbell in your hands can feel lighter or heavier depending on how tight you grip it. This is because of proprioception, which is how your body senses itself and the world around it. Proprioception is triggered by receptors in your skin, muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to your brain. The more you squeeze the barbell, the more signals you send, and the more aware you are of the weight and body position. 

When applied tightly, the compression on your forearm muscles from wrist wraps can make your fingers curl inward, making your grip stronger than usual. This is why some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. They make you feel more confident and strong — so wrist wraps can provide a psychological benefit that might encourage you to lift heavier or push for more reps than you would without them.

When Should You Use Wrist Wraps?

Generally, you’ll want to wear wrist wraps on exercises where force pushes down into your wrist joint — the most common examples are below.

Pressing exercises

Bench presses and overhead presses are the most popular lifts to use wrist wraps for. During these exercises, maintaining a neutral wrist position is helpful to transfer force more efficiently into the implement you’re lifting. Wrist wraps are often used with the free-weight variations of these pressing exercises, but they can still provide noticeable benefits when used on their machine variations, too.

Back squats

Surprisingly, wrist wraps can also be an asset on back squats — particularly low-bar back squats. Since the low-bar position requires the barbell to be placed lower on your back across your rear delts, this style sometimes forces lifters to hold their wrists in extension to keep the bar in place. Unfortunately, this position can be painful with hundreds of pounds pushing downward — wrist wraps can help absorb the load and make the position painless.

Olympic lifts 

You should also consider wearing wrist wraps on Olympic lifts like snatches and clean & jerks. Although the first part of each lift is a pull from the floor, both movements finish overhead in a position that will put downward pressure on your wrists. The issue is that both exercises, especially the clean and jerk, require a significant amount of wrist mobility during the initial parts of the movement. For this reason, consider using a shorter wrist wrap and/or experiment with the tightness and technique of how you put them on.

Deadlifts

As mentioned previously, some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. This is because the compression on your finger-flexing muscles can cause your hand to close, which can trick you into thinking you have a stronger grip. The key is to make a fist and wrap the wrist wraps as tightly as you can.

Most of the time, you’ll find lifting straps more helpful on deadlifts than wrist wraps. However, they might be worth practicing with and using if your federation allows them to be used in competition — because wrist straps almost certainly won’t be permitted. 

What to Consider When Buying Wrist Wraps

Materials and Construction

Wrist wraps are usually made of a thumb loop on one end, an elastic body, and a Velcro closure system on the other end. The thumb loop helps to secure the wrap around your wrist, while the elastic body provides support and stability for your wrist joint. The Velcro closure system allows you to adjust the tightness and fit of the wrap according to your preference and comfort.

There are different types of materials used for wrist wraps, such as a cotton-elastic blend or a tri-blend of elastic, polyester, and cotton. Cotton and elastic wraps are softer and more breathable, but they may stretch over time and lose their elasticity. Elastic, polyester, and cotton blends are more durable and resistant to stretching, but they may be less comfortable and more prone to causing skin irritation.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the wrist wraps, especially the seams. Since wrist wraps are subjected to a lot of pulling and tension during use, they should have strong and sturdy seams that can withstand the stress. Double-stitched seams are recommended at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, the anchor point that gets the most tension when you put on the wrist wraps. You should also check the quality of the Velcro and make sure it is not too rough or too weak.

Similar to knee sleeves, there’s a significant amount of pulling and tension involved in using wrist wraps. They should have double-stitched seams at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, because that’s the anchor point that gets the most tension when the wrist wraps are being put on.

Length

The length of wrist wraps can range from 12 inches up to 36 inches long. Here are the most common lengths.

• Twelve inches is a good length for teenagers due to their still-developing bones and for adults with extremely small wrists. Additionally, 12-inch lengths are suitable for CrossFit because they provide lightweight support without compromising the high degree of wrist mobility needed in the sport.
• Eighteen inches can be great for those with smaller wrists and Olympic weightlifting; because of the shorter length, they won’t wrap around your wrists as many times, which can give you more mobility in your snatches and cleans while still giving some support for your jerks.
• Twenty-four inches is the sweet spot for most people because this length allows for about three wraps around the average person’s wrist, which is just right for providing a noticeable level of support.
• Thirty-six inches is starting to get excessively long. Ordinary people will find these wrap around your wrists a lot, which can add too much bulk to your wrist area. That said, some folks with large wrists may find that the 36-inch length gives enough revolutions to provide adequate support. Also, experienced powerlifters can sometimes prefer four to six wraps around their wrists than the standard two to three that 20-inch wraps will offer.

Stiffness

One of the main factors to consider when buying wrist wraps is stiffness, which depends on two things: the material and the length. 

Wrist wraps with a blend of cotton, elastic, and polyester will provide more tension than those only made from cotton and elastic. This means they will support your wrists better and prevent injuries, but they will also limit your range of motion and flexibility. 

Longer wraps also allow you to perform more wraps around your wrist, increasing stiffness and stability. However, too many wraps can cut off blood circulation and cause discomfort. Therefore, you should choose the stiffness level that suits your goals and preferences.

Type of Training

Different types of training will require different types of wrist wraps. Depending on your goals and preferences, choose wrist wraps that suit your specific needs. Here are some common types and the corresponding wrist wraps that may work best for them:

• General fitness: If you’re doing general fitness exercises, such as push-ups, dumbbell presses, or kettlebell swings, you won’t need heavy or stiff wrist wraps. You can opt for lighter and more flexible wrist wraps that provide enough support that you’d find in a 12-inch length.
• Powerlifting: If you’re doing powerlifting exercises, such as the back squat and bench press, you’ll need more rigid and supportive wrist wraps to handle heavy loads and prevent wrist injuries. You should opt for thicker and stiffer wrist wraps with more elasticity and less give. 24-inch is a great length or 36-inches for advanced powerlifters.
• Olympic lifting: If you’re doing Olympic lifting exercises, such as snatch, clean, or jerk, you’ll need more flexible and dynamic wrist wraps that can allow you to move your wrists freely and quickly. Opt for thinner and softer wrist wraps made from a cotton-elastic blend and are no longer than 18 inches.
• CrossFit: If you’re doing CrossFit exercises, such as thrusters, burpees, and pull-ups, you’ll need shorter and less compressive wrist wraps that can handle different movements and extended workout periods. You should opt for lightweight wrist wraps that are made from cotton and are between 12 to 18 inches long.
• Strongman/Strongwoman: If you’re doing strongman/strongwoman exercises, such as atlas stones, farmer’s walk, or log press, you’ll need durable and resilient wrist wraps that can withstand extreme pressure and abrasion. Choose stiff wrist wraps made from a tri-blend for high elasticity and low give — the 24 to 36-inch length is ideal for this sport.

Competition Approval

If you plan to compete in powerlifting meets, you may need to check if the governing bodies approve your wrist wraps for those sports. Different federations may have different rules and regulations regarding the specifications and usage of wrist wraps.

For example, the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) is the world’s leading powerlifting federation that organizes international events like the World Powerlifting Championships. The IPF has strict rules on the size, material, design, and brand of wrist wraps that can be used in competitions. The maximum length of wrist wraps is one meter (39 inches), and the maximum width is eight centimeters (three inches). The IPF also has a list of approved brands that can be used in its competitions.

You should always check with the competition organizers before using wrist wraps to ensure they comply with their rules.

Final Thoughts

Wrist wraps are a valuable accessory for anyone who wants to improve their performance and protect their wrists from injury. They come in different sizes, colors, styles, and stiffness levels. When buying wrist wraps, you should consider the material and the length of the wrap, as they affect the tension and support the wrap provides.

Best Wrist Wraps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Wrist Wraps Overall	Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit	Best Wrist Wraps for Benching	Best Stiff Wrist Wraps	Best Budget Wrist Wraps
Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps	SBD Wrist Wraps	DMoose Wrist Wraps	2POOD Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps	Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 3.5
Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff) Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L) Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 12 or 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend Length: 12 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend  Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Not listed Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No
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Best Wrist Wraps Overall

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting

SBD Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting

DMoose Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit

2POOD Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Best Wrist Wraps for Benching

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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Best Stiff
Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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Best Budget Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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FAQs

The post Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting, CrossFit, Bench Pressing, and More (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Wrong.

Straps are way more complicated than they appear. From weight capacity to color and material, each of the five different styles has its own best use cases. We’re here to help you decide which ones will suit you best.

How We Chose the Best Lifting Straps

The Breaking Muscle team features a roster of powerlifters, Olympic weightlifters, CrossFitters, strength and conditioning coaches, and certified personal trainers. Across the board, we’ve tested over a dozen lifting straps from various brands and evaluated their durability, grippiness, and how connected we felt to the bar when lifting. Down below, you’ll find our top choices to help you figure out which straps are the best fit for you and your training style.

Our Top Picks for the Best Lifting Straps

• Best Lifting Straps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps
• Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps: DMOOSE Figure 8 Lifting Straps
• Best Lifting Straps for Deadlifts: Jerkfit Death Grips
• Best Lifting Straps With Hooks: DMOOSE Weightlifting Hooks
• Best Lifting Straps for Small Wrists: Element 26 Weightlifting Straps
• Best Lifting Straps on Amazon: Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps
• Best Leather Lifting Straps: Rogue Treated Leather Straps
• Best Olympic Lifting Straps: Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps
• Best Budget Lifting Straps: DMOOSE Lifting Straps
• Best Lifting Straps for Powerlifting: Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps

Best Lifting Straps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps

Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps

4.5

• Material: Nylon
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: 5mm neoprene

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The Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps are our top pick overall. They’re made from high-quality nylon, a durable and resilient material that doesn’t stretch or tear easily. This means they can withstand heavy loads and intense workouts. And unlike cotton or leather straps, nylon straps don’t tend to fray or rot over time. These straps will last you for years of lifting without losing their shape or strength.

Thanks to their traditional “lasso” design, you can tighten or loosen them as you wish, depending on the thickness of your wrists and the diameter of the bar. This ensures a secure and comfortable grip on the bar, preventing any slippage or movement. 

The Unleash Lifting Straps have soft and thick neoprene padding that cushions your wrists and prevents any abrasion or irritation. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber, the same material in almost all the best knee sleeves, that is flexible and supportive. It provides a smooth and soft surface for your wrists, reducing some of the pressure while distributing the weight more evenly. 

Unfortunately, the Unleash straps are less comfortable than cotton straps, especially in hot and humid conditions. They’re made from nylon, a synthetic material that doesn’t breathe well, which traps heat and moisture. They also have poor absorption, which can cause a layer of sweat to build up on your wrists and affect the placement of your straps and comfort. Sweat can cause bacteria and odor to build up on your straps, which can be unpleasant and unhygienic. You’ll need to wash your nylon straps regularly to keep them clean and fresh.

These straps are traditional (lasso) lifting straps, so you loop them around your wrists and then wrap them around the bar several times to create a tight and secure connection. However, this process requires some skill and practice. At first, it will be awkward and time-consuming, but after a while, you should get the hang of it. 

RELATED: Weight Lifting Straps: What They Are, When and Why to Use Them

Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps: DMOOSE Figure 8 Lifting Straps

DMoose Figure 8 Lifting Straps

4.2

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Figure 8
• Length: Length isn’t listed, but they are 6 to 7.5 inches wide
• Padding: None

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The main advantage of Figure 8 straps is that they’re easy to use. Simply loop one end around your wrist, bring your hand close to the bar, and feed your hand through the other loop. Bring your hands inwards to grab the bar for the straps to become tight, creating a secure grip that won’t slip or loosen during lifts. To remove them, just reverse the process and slide them off your wrists — no need to fumble with long straps again!

The DMOOSE Figure 8 Lifting Straps are made of high-quality cotton that’s soft and durable. Cotton is breathable and doesn’t irritate your skin or cause excessive sweating, so you’ll have a better grip whether you’re lifting a barbell, kettlebell, or axle bar. 

They’re also machine-washable, so you can keep them clean and fresh. The DMOOSE Figure 8 Lifting Straps offer three sizes (small, medium, or large) to suit your wrist and hand size. The size chart on their website is clear and will help you find the right fit.

The DMOOSE Figure 8 Lifting Straps don’t have any padding or cushioning for your wrists. This means they might dig into your skin and cause discomfort or bruising, especially if you lift heavy weights or use them for high-rep sets. I’ve even seen some elite-level lifters end up with small skin tears because they’re deadlifting massive weights. If you have sensitive wrists or prefer more comfort, you may want to look for straps with wrist padding, like the Element 26’s.

Remember how they’re easy to use? Well, that’s after you learn how to use them. Most beginners find figure 8 straps awkward to use at first due to incorrect use. Even when used properly, they can still feel unnatural as the load is held outside your hands instead of in line with them. As a result, you may need some time to get used to them, especially if you’re accustomed to traditional straps. 

Finally, figure 8 straps aren’t a one-size-fits-all. They require the correct size to function correctly, so you won’t get the optimal grip and support from the straps if you choose a size that is too big or too small. Make sure to measure your wrist and hand size carefully and follow the size chart on their website before buying.

Best Lifting Straps for Deadlifts: Jerkfit Death Grips

Jerkfit Death Grips

4.3

• Material: PVC rubber
• Style: Grips
• Length: Not listed
• Padding: Neoprene

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Our Breaking Muscle product tester found the Jerkfit Death Grips fast and easy to use. Unlike other straps that require you to wrap them around the bar multiple times, the Death Grips attach to your wrist with a velcro strap, and then you wrap the rubber flap around the bar — trapping the bar between the grips and your palms. When used on deadlifts, they avoid the hassle of fiddling with a longer strap during your setup. They also save time, especially when used for deadlifts in timed workouts like those seen in CrossFit.

When they tried them in a workout, our team member was impressed by the grip. They felt connected to the bar during their deadlifts and pulled heavy weights that they would have felt slipping without them. When used on pull-ups and dumbbell exercises, they found the grips held up well without slipping. This is due to their unique PVC rubber construction and neoprene padding. During the entire test, their comfort surprised our product tester, and they loved how intuitive they were to use.

One of the drawbacks of the Jerkfit Death Grips is that they can take some time to get used to, especially if you’re not familiar with using lifting straps. The Death Grips are a little bulky because of the neoprene pad, so they can initially feel awkward. Compared to traditional lifting straps, the pad size is larger with more stitching, resulting in a higher risk of loose threads than other straps. You may need to trim or burn off any loose threads that you notice on your straps to prevent them from getting worse.

The other downside of the Jerkfit Death Grips is the cost. At the time of writing, the Death Grips cost $39.95 per pair. This price is more than double that of other quality straps in this article, like the DMOOSE budget-friendly straps. While the Death Grips offer a lot of value and quality for their price, they may not be affordable or worth it for everyone.

RELATED: Best CrossFit Shoes for Flat Feet, Wide Feet, and More (2023)

Best Lifting Straps With Hooks: DMOOSE Weightlifting Hooks

DMoose Weight Lifting Hooks

3.8

• Material: Rubber-coated stainless steel hooks, nylon strap
• Style: Hooks
• Length: 3.7 inches
• Padding: 8mm neoprene

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Unlike other lifting straps that require you to wrap them around the bar multiple times, these hooks are nearly effortless to apply. Put them on your wrists, tighten the velcro strap, hook them onto the bar, and voilà! 

Straps this easy to use saves you time and avoids the hassle of resetting your straps, especially when switching between different exercises or weights. For ease and speed, I find hooks are better than any other strap type while not interfering much with your grip or wrist mobility.

These hooks are versatile and can be used for various types of implements. They’re suitable for barbell lifts such as deadlifts, shrugs, or rows, as well as using them on pull-up bars. They play nice with cable machine attachments, and one customer even mentioned they use them on their rowing machine handles to combat grip fatigue. 

RELATED: Best Rowing Machines for Beginners, Small Spaces, Seniors, and More

I’m pleasantly surprised by their construction. The actual hooks of the Weightlifting Hooks are made from reinforced stainless steel with a non-slip rubberized coating. This means they should have no problem handling weights up to the listed capacity. 

They’re 3.3 inches wide and have a deep curve that ensures a stable and secure grip on the bar. Unlike narrow or shallow hooks, the DMOOSEs will prevent the bar from tipping or slipping out of your hands, which could cause injuries or, at the very least, compromise your form.

These hooks have a maximum weight capacity of 600 pounds, which might be a limitation for some advanced lifters who want to lift heavier weights. If you exceed this limit, you risk damaging the hooks or injuring yourself — consider the best lifting straps for powerlifting from Iron Bull Strength instead.

The Weightlifting Hooks might cause your wrists to sweat more than usual, especially in hot or humid conditions. The thick neoprene padding is extra-wide to cover your wrist area and the lower part of your palm, but this results in a large non-breathable area of skin. Further, the velcro strap must be cinched extra tight to avoid getting pulled off from heavy weights resting in the hooks. While it’s unlikely that either of these will cause a structural issue with the hooks, the excessive sweat can make them uncomfortable or unhygienic unless you wash them often.

Unfortunately, the hooks are fixed in place and don’t have any adjustment options. This means that they might only fit average hand sizes correctly. For those with extra small or large hands, the hooks might be too close to your fingertips or wrists, respectively. In turn, this can negatively affect your grip strength or comfort level.

Best Lifting Straps for Small Wrists: Element 26 Weightlifting Straps

Element 26 Weight Lifting Straps

3.5

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 23 inches
• Padding: 5mm neoprene

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The defining feature of the Element 26 Weightlifting Straps is the traditional lasso style, meaning they have a closed loop at one end where the free end feeds into them. This strap style is great for small wrists because it allows you to adjust the size until the strap matches your preference. You can also easily switch between different exercises without re-adjusting them. Overall, lasso-style straps are more secure and stable than other straps, such as Olympic lifting or hooks.

Another pro of the Element 26 Weightlifting Straps is that they’re 23 inches long. This length is ideal for lifting straps for a couple of reasons. First, it makes it easier to wrap the straps with a single hand, especially your non-dominant side. Second, the 23-inch length is compatible with a wider range of barbells; axle bars have a noticeably larger diameter than Olympic barbells, so the longer material gives you get more wraps around the bar for a more secure grip — this is helpful for those with smaller wrists and hands that would otherwise struggle with thicker bars.

The Element 26 Weightlifting Straps have comfortable neoprene padding inside the loop around your wrist. Neoprene is a soft and flexible material that provides cushioning and support for your wrist, reducing the pressure that can cause discomfort and pain to your wrists during heavy lifting.

One of the cons of the Element 26 Weightlifting Straps is that they have left and right indicators on the loop around your wrist. These indicators are supposed to help you put on the straps correctly, but they’re actually redundant and unnecessary. Lasso-style straps have a closed loop on one end, and whether the free end is fed through the left or right side determines which hand they belong on. Since there is no difference between the left and right straps, except for the indicator, this feature is basically just a gimmick that adds little value to the straps.

Another con of the Element 26 Weightlifting Straps is that they are made of cotton, which is weaker than nylon. Nylon is a synthetic material with higher tensile strength and durability than cotton, so it can withstand more weight and stress without breaking or tearing. Cotton straps, on the other hand, can fray or snap after prolonged use or exposure to moisture. Cotton straps are also more prone to shrinking or stretching after washing or drying, affecting their fit and performance.

Finally, the Element 26s only come in black. Black is the standard color for lifting straps, but it can also be dull. Some lifters may prefer colorful or vibrant options to match their personality or style. Black straps can also be more challenging to identify in a crowded gym or locker room because they all look similar. More color choices would make the product more appealing and attractive to a broader range of customers.

Best Lifting Straps on Amazon: Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps

Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps

4.0

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 21.5 inches
• Padding: “Neotek” (neoprene)

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The Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps have a 4.7 out of 5 rating from over 27,000 customers on Amazon, and they’re also rated #2 in the “Exercise Straps” category. That means tens of thousands of people have tried and loved these straps, so you can trust their quality and performance. But let’s not forget about their price. At the time of publishing, they cost only $9.97 — a steal compared to other lifting straps on the market. Plus, if you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can enjoy free shipping and an excellent return policy. 

They impressed our Breaking Muscle team member with their softness and comfort. Being made from cotton, the straps felt soft in the hands and offered extra wrist cushioning with their “Neotek” padding (essentially just neoprene). Our tester also noticed that the padding helps absorb sweat and moisture, so your hands will stay drier during your workouts, and it’ll be easier to keep a better grip.

Unfortunately, when our product tester opened the bag, they were surprised that the Harbingers had some loose threads and burs. The straps performed without any issues for a few weeks during barbell workouts, but these imperfections made our tester a bit concerned about how the straps would do after a year.

According to a few customers, the straps can sometimes feel stiff when first using them, making it harder to wrap them around the bar and tighten them around your wrist. However, we didn’t find this to be the case. If you run into this issue, the problem will subside as the straps are used because they’ll become more flexible and pliable.

Lastly, some users reported that the straps broke with heavy weights, which was extremely rare. This might be due to a combination of the straps being 100 percent cotton and being used on barbells with aggressive knurling. Cotton is a weaker material than nylon, so these straps are more prone to fraying or snapping over time — especially if they’re used in humid conditions. While the risk of these straps breaking is extremely low, and our product tester (who lifted 315 pounds with them) didn’t experience any issues, consider more robust nylon straps if you’ll be lifting serious weights.

Best Leather Lifting Straps: Rogue Treated Leather Straps

Rogue Treated Leather Straps

3.5

• Material: Leather
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: None

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The Rogue Treated Leather Straps are our top leather choice because it’s hard to beat the quality and craftsmanship of products made in the USA. These straps are crafted from 100 percent genuine premium belly leather, known for its balance of soft pliability and reliable durability. With the local manufacturing, product material, and brand, you can trust that these straps will last a long time and perform well in any lifting situation.

One of the most critical features of any lifting strap is the stitching. If the stitching is weak or poorly done, the strap can tear or unravel quickly. Double-stitching used to be a step above and an excellent way to increase the longevity of sewn products, but Rogue has used box-stitching on these straps, a technique that reinforces the seams and minimizes fraying. The stitching is also done with heavy-duty nylon thread, which adds to the strength and durability of the straps.

In terms of material, leather is an all-time classic. One of our product testers at Breaking Muscle has similar lifting straps made from genuine leather. They’re a few years old and are much loved. They’ve found that the feel of leather is second to none, and as you use them, they’ll mold to the shape of your hands and wrists — giving you a truly bespoke pair of straps. The leather also has a natural texture and color that gives these straps a timeless and elegant appearance.

All leather products take some time to break in, and these straps are no exception. When you first receive them, they might feel stiff and rough on your skin — this is normal. You can roll them up and unroll them a few times to help the break-in process, but we’ve found they take a couple of weeks of regular use to soften for maximum comfort on the back of your hands. Remember, good things take time!

One downside of leather is that it can absorb sweat, dirt, and other lovely substances over time. This can cause the leather to change color or develop marks that might look unappealing. Our staff member noticed some stains on theirs but appreciated the added character to the leather. If you care about the aesthetics of your straps, consider cleaning and treating them regularly or avoiding them altogether and going for a nylon strap instead.

Lastly, leather can be slippier than cotton or nylon. This can affect your grip on the bar, especially if your hands are sweaty or oily. Just place the rough side of the leather straps against the bar. This texture will dig better into the knurling and give more friction for the best grip possible.

Best Olympic Lifting Straps: Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps

Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps

3.8

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Olympic lifting
• Length: 8.5 inches
• Padding: None

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The main benefit of the Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps is that they’re specifically designed in a tear-drop shape for Olympic weightlifting. They’re shorter than traditional straps, so they wrap around the bar less. This means they help with your grip, but if you need to bail a snatch or clean and jerk, they’ll release in time to safely separate yourself from the bar. This can prevent devastating injuries from longer straps that wouldn’t detach from the bar in time.

Another benefit of these straps is their reinforced stitching. The seams of most straps are only double-stitched, resulting in a weaker area that could start to unravel over time. However, these Olympic lifting straps from Gymreapers are triple-stitched — making loose threads extremely unlikely to ever happen. This means you can get a secure grip around the bar, with the peace of mind that your straps will endure over time.

One of the best things about these straps is that they come with a lifetime replacement guarantee. If your straps ever break or wear out, Gymreapers claims you can get a new pair for free. This is a rare and generous offer that shows how confident the company is in its product quality and customer satisfaction. With these Olympic Weightlifting Straps, you can rest assured that you’re getting a reliable and long-lasting training tool to help you achieve your Oly lifting goals.

However, these straps also have some drawbacks, such as a lack of padding on the wrist area, making them less comfortable. As a result, you might experience chafing or bruising on your wrists until you get used to them. If you prefer more cushioning and comfort, consider looking for padded straps instead, like the Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps.

Another downside of these straps is that they’re less secure than traditional straps. Of course, this is intentional because they’re made for Oly lifting — but it’s still worth noting. Since they are shorter, they can come undone more easily than traditional lasso straps. This is done on purpose to allow for quick release in case of emergency, but it also means that you might lose your grip if you’re not careful.

Best Budget Lifting Straps: DMOOSE Lifting Straps

DMoose Fitness Wrist Straps

3.5

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: 4mm neoprene

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The standout feature of the DMOOSE Lifting Straps is the price. At the time of writing, these retail for $15 after being marked down from $17 — not quite as cheap as the Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps, but close.

One of the best features of these straps is that they fit all wrist sizes. The straps have a closed-loop design, so you can tighten them like a lasso around your wrists. This allows you to adjust the fit according to your wrist size and comfort level. You don’t have to worry about the straps permanently being too loose or tight, as you can easily adjust them to your liking.

These straps are also incredibly comfortable, featuring a 4mm padding on the inside for cushion and to prevent chafing. The cotton material is also soft and breathable, which keeps your hands cool and dry. At 24 inches long and 1.5 inches wide, they give you enough length and width to wrap around the bar securely.

However, these straps aren’t perfect—one of their main cons is the grippy silicone texture. When a Breaking Muscle team member used a nearly identical pair of these straps from another brand, they found it hard to tighten and loosen the straps due to the sticky nature of the silicone texture. Our product tester also disliked the feeling of the raised texture in their hands when they gripped the bar with the straps on. This is a matter of personal preference, though, and some people may actually prefer the silicone bumps.

Another downside of these straps is that they only have double-crossed stitching, which is weaker than box stitching. Box-stitching is a more secure method of stitching that creates a square-shaped pattern on the strap with an “x” through the box. This makes the strap more resistant to tearing and fraying. The DMOOSE Lifting Straps have double-crossed stitching, which is better than single stitching but still not as sturdy as box stitching.

Sadly, these straps don’t have a weight capacity listed on their website or product page. This means you don’t know how much weight these straps can safely handle. It would be helpful if the company provided details on how much weight these straps can support. Can they hold 200 pounds, 500 pounds, or 1,000 pounds? This would give customers more transparency when considering these straps and ensure they aren’t asking the world from budget-friendly lifting straps.

Best Lifting Straps for Powerlifting: Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps

Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps

4.0

• Material: Nylon
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 25 inches
• Padding: None

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If you’re looking for a pair of lifting straps that can handle the heaviest weights and the most demanding workouts, consider the Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps. 

These straps are made of extra-strong nylon material, which is ideal for powerlifting because nylon is one of the most robust materials for lifting straps, beating out cotton any day. Robust, heavy-duty nylon improves grip strength on every pulling movement and can be used on barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, or any cable machine. 

Iron Bull Strength claims these are “Level 4” strength, but I couldn’t find a scale or explanation of what this actually means on their website. In contrast, their Figure 8 straps, which are also a Level 4 strength, have a 1,000+ pound capacity.

Iron Bull Strength is well known in the powerlifting and strength training communities for reputable products, so I doubt these straps will fail with regular use. However, I was surprised to see that as their premium lifting straps, they do not have a weight capacity listed. This makes it hard to compare them with other brands or models and also raises some questions about their durability and safety.

The design of these straps is well-suited for powerlifting. They have a two-inch width, so those elite powerlifting records you’ll be lifting with them will be dispersed better across your hands — resulting in less bruising and skin tears. I was delighted they have double-stitching to ensure the likelihood of loose threads is as low as possible, a must for straps that will be pushed to the limit.

One thing that sets these straps apart is that they have zero padding. This is done intentionally to guarantee a maximum grip and authentic feel during your most intense lifts. 

Some lifters prefer this style of straps, believing that padding reduces the contact between the hand and the bar and thus compromises the grip. However, this also means these straps are less comfortable on the wrists and will take some getting used to. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to bruising, consider looking for another option.

Unlike cotton, nylon does not absorb sweat as well, which can make the straps slippery and uncomfortable after a long session. This can also affect the hygiene and odor of the straps, as sweat can accumulate and cause bacteria growth. To prevent this, wash your straps regularly and let them air dry completely before using them again.

Different Types of Lifting Straps

There are many kinds of lifting straps available on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common ones:

Traditional/Lasso Straps

These are the simplest and most widely used types of lifting straps. Consisting of a long piece of fabric with a closed loop, the free end is fed through the loop, around your wrist, and then wraps around the bar several times. This makes them easy to use and adjust, and they provide a secure grip on any bar because they act like a lasso. However, they can also be challenging to release quickly, which can be problematic if you need to bail out of a lift or switch between exercises.

Olympic Lifting Straps

These are similar to traditional straps, but they have a shorter length and a closed tear-drop shape. They’re designed for Olympic weightlifting, where you need to quickly release the bar after completing a snatch or a clean and jerk. They are also suitable for explosive movements like high pulls or power cleans. 

Figure 8’s

These straps form a figure-eight shape. They are straightforward to put on and take off, and they provide a very tight grip on the bar — so much so that you can let go completely and they should stay on. They’re ideal for heavy deadlifts or shrugs, where you don’t need to worry about dropping the bar or changing your grip. However, they’re often misused by beginners so they can take some practice to use correctly.

Hooks

Attached to a wrist strap, these metal hooks grab onto the bar to take pressure off your grip and allow you to focus entirely on your working muscles. They’re great for people with weak or injured hands or wrists, or who want to lift very heavy weights without ever taxing their grip strength. However, they can also be more expensive, bulky, and unsafe if they break or slip off the bar.

Grips

These are rubber or silicone pads that stick to your palms and create friction with the bar. They are similar to gloves, but they only cover your palm. Grips are ideal for people who don’t like the feeling of straps or hooks or who want to make their setup fast. However, they can also wear and lose their stickiness quickly compared to other types of straps.

What Are the Benefits of Using Lifting Straps?

Lifting straps can help you in several ways when you’re working out. Here are some of the main benefits:

Reduced Grip Fatigue

One of the most significant limitations when lifting heavy weights is your grip strength. Your hands and forearms can tire before your target muscles do, preventing you from completing more reps or adding more weight. Lifting straps can help you overcome this by taking some of the load off your hands and transferring it to your arms and shoulders.

RELATED: The Best Shoulder Workouts for More Muscle, For Strength, For Beginners, and More

Ability to Hold More Weight

Another benefit of lifting straps is that they allow you to hold more weight than you usually could with your bare hands. This can help you break through plateaus and challenge yourself with heavier loads. Lifting more weight can also stimulate muscle growth and strength gains since your grip no longer limits you.

Protection Against Rips and Tears

Lifting heavy weights can damage your skin, especially if you have rough, dry, or heavily calloused hands. Lifting straps can protect your hands from getting ripped or torn by creating a barrier between your skin and the bar. This can also prevent infections and reduce pain and inflammation.

When Should You Use Lifting Straps?

Lifting straps can be a valuable tool for enhancing your training, but they shouldn’t be used all the time or for every exercise. Here are some guidelines on when to use them:

• Use them sparingly: Lifting straps should not replace your baseline grip strength. You should still train your grip regularly using the warm-up sets of your exercises. Avoid using straps for every set or every workout, and only use them when you really need them, like when you’re going for a personal record, doing high-rep sets, or working on weak points.
• Use them strategically: Lifting straps shouldn’t be used for every exercise. Use them only for exercises that involve pulling movements, such as deadlifts, rows, pull-ups, etc. You shouldn’t use them for exercises that involve pushing movements, such as the bench press, the overhead press, or dips — that’s what wrist wraps are for. 
• Use them correctly: Lifting straps should be used properly to avoid injury and maximize performance. Ensure the straps are tight enough to secure your grip, but not so tight that they cut off your blood circulation or cause numbness. You should also make sure that the straps are wrapped around the bar in the right direction so that they don’t unravel or slip off during the lift. You should also practice releasing the straps quickly and safely in an emergency.

What to Look For in Lifting Straps

Materials

Lifting straps can be made of different materials, such as nylon, cotton, or leather. Each material has pros and cons regarding durability, comfort, grip, and price. Nylon straps are usually the most durable and affordable, but they can also be slippery and harsh on your skin. Cotton straps are generally the most comfortable and breathable, but they can also be less durable and more prone to stretching. Leather straps are traditionally the most classic, but they can also be more expensive and harder to clean.

Type

As we mentioned before, there are different types of lifting straps, such as traditional, Olympic, figure 8’s, hooks, and grips. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of ease of use, security, versatility, and comfort. You should choose the type that suits your goals, preferences, and experience level. 

For example, if you’re a beginner or an intermediate lifter who wants to improve your grip strength and technique, you might want to start with hooks or grips. If you’re an advanced or a competitive lifter who wants to lift as much weight as possible and focus on your other muscles, you might want to try Olympic lifting straps or traditional straps.

Length

Lifting straps can also vary, from four inches to 25 inches. The strap length affects how many times you can wrap it around the bar and how much slack you have left. A longer strap will allow you to wrap it more times and create a tighter grip, but it will also take more time and effort to put on and take off. A shorter strap will allow you to wrap it fewer times and create a looser grip, but it will also be faster and easier to use. 

The ideal length for you depends on your hand size, wrist size, bar diameter, and personal preference. A good rule of thumb is to choose a strap that is about 24 inches long. This will give you enough length to wrap it around most bars at least twice and still have some slack left. If the strap is too long for you, you can always cut it slightly and burn the ends to prevent fraying.

Padding

Some lifting straps have padding on the wrist area to provide extra comfort and cushioning. The padding can be made of different materials, but it’s almost always neoprene. Padding can help prevent chafing, bruising, or digging into your skin when lifting heavy weights. 

However, padding can also add bulkiness and weight to the strap, affecting your wrist mobility and grip feel. Some people prefer to have no padding at all for a more natural and direct contact with the bar. The choice of padding is mostly a matter of personal preference and comfort level.

Final Thoughts

Lifting straps are a great accessory for anyone who wants to improve their strength and performance in the gym. They can help you lift more weight, reduce grip fatigue, protect your hands from injury, and overcome plateaus. 

However, they should not be abused or relied on too much. Train your grip strength regularly and use straps only when necessary and appropriate. You should also choose the right strap type for your goals and preferences.

Best Lifting Straps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Lifting Straps Overall	Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps	Best Lifting Straps for Deadlifts	Best Lifting Straps With Hooks	Best Lifting Straps for Small Wrists	Best Lifting Straps on Amazon	Best Leather Lifting Straps	Best Olympic Lifting Straps	Best Budget Lifting Straps	Best Lifting Straps for Powerlifting
Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps	DMoose Figure 8 Straps	Jerkfit Death Grips	DMoose Lifting Hooks	Element 26 Weight Lifting Straps	Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps	Rogue Treated Leather Straps	Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps	DMoose Lifting Straps	Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.2	Primary Rating: 4.3	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 4.0
Description: Material: Nylon Style: Traditional Length: 24 inches Padding: 5mm neoprene	Description: Material: Cotton Style: Figure 8 Length: Length isn’t listed, but they are 6 to 7.5 inches wide Padding: None	Description: Material: PVC rubber Style: Grips Length: Not listed Padding: Neoprene	Description: Material: Rubber-coated stainless steel hooks, nylon strap Style: Hooks Length: 3.7 inches Padding: 8mm neoprene	Description: Material: Cotton Style: Traditional Length: 23 inches Padding: 5mm neoprene	Description: Material: Cotton Style: Traditional Length: 21.5 inches Padding: “Neotek” (neoprene)	Description: Material: Leather Style: Traditional Length: 24 inches Padding: None	Description: Material: Cotton Style: Olympic lifting Length: 8.5 inches Padding: None	Description: Material: Cotton Style: Traditional Length: 24 inches Padding: 4mm neoprene	Description: Material: Nylon Style: Traditional Length: 25 inches Padding: None
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Best Lifting Straps Overall

Iron Bull Strength Unleash Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Nylon
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: 5mm neoprene

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Best Figure 8 Lifting Straps

DMoose Figure 8 Straps

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Figure 8
• Length: Length isn’t listed, but they are 6 to 7.5 inches wide
• Padding: None

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Best Lifting Straps for Deadlifts

Jerkfit Death Grips

Primary Rating:

4.3

Description:

• Material: PVC rubber
• Style: Grips
• Length: Not listed
• Padding: Neoprene

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Best Lifting Straps With Hooks

DMoose Lifting Hooks

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Material: Rubber-coated stainless steel hooks, nylon strap
• Style: Hooks
• Length: 3.7 inches
• Padding: 8mm neoprene

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Best Lifting Straps for Small Wrists

Element 26 Weight Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 23 inches
• Padding: 5mm neoprene

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Best Lifting Straps on Amazon

Harbinger Padded Cotton Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 21.5 inches
• Padding: “Neotek” (neoprene)

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Best Leather Lifting Straps

Rogue Treated Leather Straps

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Leather
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: None

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Best Olympic Lifting Straps

Gymreapers Olympic Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Olympic lifting
• Length: 8.5 inches
• Padding: None

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Best Budget Lifting Straps

DMoose Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 24 inches
• Padding: 4mm neoprene

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Best Lifting Straps for Powerlifting

Iron Bull Strength Premium Lifting Straps

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Nylon
• Style: Traditional
• Length: 25 inches
• Padding: None

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FAQs

The post Best Lifting Straps for Powerlifting, Olympic Weightlifting, and More (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Breaking Muscle has a passionate team of fitness enthusiasts that includes Olympic weightlifters, powerlifters, strength coaches, and personal trainers. Altogether, we’ve tested over sixteen different knee sleeves. I personally have also been wearing knee sleeves for years during my squat sessions and, occasionally, for CrossFit Workouts of the Day (WODs). 

We chose the best knee sleeves by dishing out nearly a dozen of them to our experienced product testing team of Olympic weightlifters and had them give benefits and drawbacks on each. We combined their hands-on feedback with the knee sleeve specs and their IPF & IWF approval status to give each an overall ranking from 1 to 5.

Of course, part of choosing the best knee sleeves means getting the perfect fit for you. As knee sleeves have no universal sizing, we’ve only selected brands with a helpful size chart, so you can get the right fit on your first try.

Our Top Picks for the Best Knee Sleeves

• Best Knee Sleeves Overall: DMOOSE Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves 
• Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis: IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting: Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves
• Best Budget Knee Sleeves: DMOOSE Reversible Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Running: Rehband 3mm Knee Sleeves

Best Knee Sleeves Overall: DMOOSE Knee Sleeves

DMoose Fitness Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: Seven millimeters
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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The DMOOSE knee sleeves are the best knee sleeves overall due to their supportive seven-millimeter thick neoprene material, build quality, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Made from neoprene, these offer an incredible amount of stretch and support for your knees. Seven millimeters is the ideal thickness for lower-body strength training. While you’ll feel the most support on knee-focused exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups, you’ll also feel the benefits of DMOOSE’s knee sleeves in posterior-chain movements, like deadlifts and good mornings. 

The double-stitching on these sleeves makes the seams much less likely to begin unraveling. It also adds an extra layer of durability, giving you greater peace of mind that they’ll last years of solid use.

DMOOSE offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is great for support products in general, and is one of the only companies out of all the knee sleeve options in this article that offers a money-back guarantee. While lower-quality knee sleeves may feature a lower price tag, they usually come without this assurance. If the DMOOSE knee sleeves don’t meet your standard, you can get your money back.

The sizes available for these knee sleeves are more limited than other brands, running from small to double extra-large. As a result, lifters with smaller or exceptionally large legs might have a more challenging time finding an ideal fit. If this concerns you, consider the SBD sleeves instead — they offer 11 different sizes.

DMOOSE’s return policy could be better. They offer free returns but don’t accept opened products, according to their return policy. This means that as soon as you physically open your knee sleeve’s package, you’ll lose the opportunity to exchange or return them if you got the wrong size. Because of this, ensure you correctly measure based on their sizing chart to maximize the chances of ordering the proper size. That said, you’d technically be eligible for a return under their 30-day guarantee if they don’t perform satisfactorily in that timeframe.

Unfortunately, these knee sleeves aren’t IPF or IWF-approved. For competitive powerlifters and weightlifters, you’ll have to look elsewhere for knee sleeves permitted for a meet under either of those federations.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their extra-supportive seven-millimeter thickness, durable double-stitching, and 30-day guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves

Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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I’ve owned the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves for over two years and use them at least once a week. Not only are the neoprene material and stitching quality impressive, but I love their 7mm thickness. It makes them supportive but not so restrictive that I have to take them off or roll them down between sets. Plus, they rarely slide down unless I wear a pair of slick leggings, and even then, it’s only minor adjustments between sets. Despite the consistent use I’ve put them through, the edges are all still intact, and there are no signs of framing in the seams — these get an A+ for durability in my books.

The Gymreapers 7mm knee sleeves are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). This is great if you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in one of the most recognized federations worldwide because you can train with the same gear you’ll be competing with. Practicing your squats with the exact same support gear you’ll be using in your meets can offer noticeable physical and psychological benefits that could give you an edge over your competitors.

A one-year replacement warranty also backs these knee sleeves. My knee sleeves from Gymreapers are still going strong after two years of consistent use, so I highly doubt you’ll ever need to use their warranty. But unlike a quality squat rack, support wear like knee sleeves will accumulate wear and tear above a cosmetic level. Even if you never need it, this policy is thoughtful and gives you peace of mind for an entire year in a product space where warranties are rare. 

Gymreapers’ return policy could be better for these knee sleeves. At the time of writing, their return policy claims that they don’t accept returns that have been worn or washed or have visible signs of use. However, I seriously doubt Gymreapers would reject a return because you tried on the knee sleeves, realized they don’t fit correctly, and either want an exchange or your money back. Leg proportions and design vary widely, so it can be challenging to get the ideal size, even with their size guide. So, if you want the ability to return or exchange them, keep this in mind before purchasing.

I found the size chart accurate and the fit excellent, but it would be helpful if they offered more sizes. Gymreapers features five sizes (S to XXL), which is standard for knee sleeves. That said, those who are more petite or have lean legs may find that even the small size is still too big to fit correctly.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their durable neoprene, reinforced stitching, IPF approval, and one-year replacement guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

4.2

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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SBD is world-renowned in powerlifting circles as the top choice for knee sleeves because they’re incredibly supportive, are manufactured in Great Britain, and you’re almost guaranteed to find an ideal fit among their 11 sizes.

If you want the crème de la crème of knee sleeves for powerlifting, look no further than the SBD powerlifting sleeves. They’re approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), which makes them suitable for IPF-affiliated powerlifting competitions. Aspiring world-record-setting powerlifters trust this brand, so it’s hard to go wrong if powerlifting is important to you.

The SBD knee sleeves are built from high-density seven-millimeter neoprene, which SBD claims offers maximum compression and contact area for your knees as they bend. Their patented design also boasts a four-way stretch that allows them to keep the high compression they’re known for without gagging around your knees during your lift. A product tester from the Breaking Muscle team put the SBDs through squats, cleans, snatches, and split squats. He noticed that despite their high compression level, they didn’t feel super restrictive. This means that they’ll continue feeling comfortable during lengthy squat workouts. 

I was immediately impressed with the size range of the SBD knee sleeves. They carry a staggering 11 different sizes, from 3XS to 5XL! With this many sizes and a detailed fit guide, you’re practically guaranteed to find your ideal fit. If you don’t succeed on the first order, they offer a great exchange policy: the knee sleeves may be tried on but can’t be used for a workout, and you can request an exchange up to 30 days after receiving them. Regarding exchange policies, I think this is one of the fairest of all companies in this article.

The SBDs are manufactured in Great Britain (GB), which immediately sets them above most knee sleeve brands that import theirs from overseas manufacturers. There are higher manufacturing and worker standards in GB, so you can trust the high-grade neoprene and double stitching to hold firm as you hit new PRs.

Our product tester found the sleeves lived up to their hard-to-get-on reputation; they had to be folded in half and then dragged up his lower legs before being rolled over. Because they’re so grippy, you’ll get a mini arm workout to start your squatting session. Applying a bit of baby powder to your legs beforehand can make this experience noticeably easier.

The price of these knee sleeves is also one of the highest in this list at $125.00 per pair. Unless you’re a competitive powerlifter or want the best for your powerlifting-style squat sessions, there are more affordable options, like the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves. 

All the above considered, we rank these 4.2 out of 5 stars for their IPF & IWF approval, world-renowned construction, and 11 sizes available.

Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis: IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeves

IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve

4.0

• Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%)
• Thickness: Not listed
• Available sizes: XS to XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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The IMAK Compression Knee Sleeves are made from soft cotton and stretchy spandex to offer comfort and mild compression all day (or night), making them the best knee sleeves for arthritis.

These compression sleeves are made from a soft and stretchy cotton-spandex blend. This material combo makes it easy for you to slide them on and off. Being 92% cotton, they’ll offer warmth while still being breathable, so they won’t cause your knees to sweat excessively.

The thickness of the knee sleeve wasn’t listed on their product page, but one customer mentioned the IMAKs are so lightweight that they forget they even have them on. It means they won’t be too compressive, so you can wear them all day or night without worrying about cutting off your circulation. For those with arthritis, this is a good thing. If they were super thick and bulky, they would be noticeable around the clock, and wearing them for long periods would be completely off the table. The cotton material can also help soothe some symptoms of arthritis by providing warmth to your knees. 

They’re pretty affordable, which is likely due to most of their material being cotton, a more economical option than neoprene. However, they’re also sold in singles, which is great, as you can purchase a single sleeve if your arthritis is in one knee only. If you need a pair of them, they’re still priced economically. Retailing at just $17.99 at the time of writing, they’re the most budget-friendly knee sleeves in this article, even when a pair is bought. As far as non-invasive treatments go for arthritic knees, these knee sleeves are a great low-cost option.

Unfortunately, the IMAK knee sleeves are only available in five sizes. If you’re extra petite or have extra-lean legs, you might find that the XS size isn’t small enough. Similarly, their sizes cap out at an XL — which may pose an issue if you or your knees are significantly larger than average.

The IMAKs may have trouble staying in place throughout the entire day. They have a stretchy tri-band, but due to their lighter compression material, they won’t be as resistant to movement at the knee. One reviewer mentioned that their knee sleeves kept rolling down on them, but other reviews didn’t mention this, so that may have been an issue of improper sizing.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their cotton-spandex blend, warmth and compression, and affordable price.

RELATED: Got Knee Pain? Fix Your Tracking in the Squat and Lunge

Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting: Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: Yes

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Iron Bull Strength’s knee sleeves are approved by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). For actively competing veterans and beginner weightlifters just starting out, being able to train with the exact same equipment that you’ll be competing with is a distinct advantage. After training regularly with them, you’ll feel comfortable with the compression and support as you squat out of the hole on a heavy clean or snatch. Having practice with this before your competition makes the difference between them being a performance enhancer instead of a distraction.

What I’m most impressed about regarding the Iron Bull Strength knee sleeves is their dual approval. These sleeves are also approved for use in the IPF. Typically, knee sleeves are designed explicitly for powerlifting or weightlifting use — being certified for both sports at the highest level is a rarity. If you like to dabble in these strength sports or want to without sinking more money in support gear, these are the sleeves for you.

These knee sleeves are made from high-grade neoprene. They feature extra durable double-stitched welded seams that, according to Iron Bull Strength, are incredibly strong and significantly reduce the risk of failure. This is exactly what any serious weightlifter wants — gear they can trust when training and on the platform.

Iron Bull comes with a 30-day return policy, starting when you receive your knee sleeves. However, they must be in the same condition you received them in: unworn/unused, with the tags intact, and in the original packaging. In other words, they have to be brand new. That means you can’t even try them on without losing your ability to return or exchange them, which we don’t love.

Plus, if you do end up needing to return them, it’ll be at personal cost. Original shipping costs are non-refundable unless damaged, defective, or there’s a shipping error. Make sure to use their detailed sizing chart to minimize the risk of ordering the wrong size.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IWF and IPF approval, high-grade neoprene with double-stitched seams, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

RELATED: How to Train the Squat for Both Powerlifting and Weightlifting

Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves

Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves

3.5

• Material: Nylon-elastic blend
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: S to L
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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CrossFit is widely known for its exercise variety, from one-rep max squats to hour-long conditioning sessions. Because of this exercise range, finding knee sleeves for CrossFit can be a serious challenge. Three-millimeter sleeves are ideal when joint mobility and comfort are prioritized, like for longer cardio-focused WODs. Meanwhile, seven-millimeter knee sleeves offer the best support and compression for heavy strength training.

As a result, CrossFitters often resort to buying TWO separate pairs of knee sleeves and using the one that best aligns with the WOD they’ll be doing. This is a mistake that ends up costing them twice as much. 

Enter the Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves.

The Element 26s are a lightweight sleeve, making them ideal for CrossFit. They’re only 3mm thick, offering excellent mobility for those longer endurance-focused WODs. Since they’re considerably thinner than 7mm knee sleeves, they’ll also be more comfortable and less restrictive for the conditioning components of your WODs like running, skipping, or rowing.

Contrary to what some CrossFitters think, they don’t need super thick knee sleeves because Crossfit isn’t just about lifting heavy — it’s about being an amazing all-round athlete. For this reason, a pair of 7mm sleeves often ends up being too thick and complete overkill. Ultimately, this means you can invest in and wear one pair of knee sleeves…no more flipping between two pairs or spending money you don’t have to!

The Element 26s are highly crafted to ensure they’re as breathable as can be. They’re built with a hybrid nylon-elastic blend, which is designed to absorb sweat and evaporate it to keep you more comfortable. For serious CrossFitters, every legitimate advantage can give you an edge in crushing your WODs with the best time possible — including effective sweat management, especially in hot gyms.

According to Element 26, these knee sleeves are anatomically designed. This likely means they’re made in a tapered shape to follow the natural contours of the average lifter’s leg, knee, and calf sizes. As such, they should stay in place without bunching behind your knees, which can be uncomfortable and cause your skin to rub.

For knee sleeves, this feature is seriously underrated — especially for CrossFit. The last thing you want in your WODs is to pull your knee sleeves up after every burpee because they’re sliding down or readjust them after every set of wall balls because they’re bunching up behind your knees and causing your skin to chafe. 

Only three sizes are available (S to L). CrossFit and other similar training styles are rising in popularity, so I’m disappointed that there isn’t a more extensive range of sizes.

The IPF or IWF doesn’t approve these for competition use. However, I don’t think that matters if you’re using them for CrossFit because they’re not designed to squeeze out every drop of your powerlifting or weightlifting performance — they’re made to help you perform better as a hybrid athlete.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their unrestricting 3mm thickness, breathable & sweat-wicking material, and comfortable tapered shape.

RELATED: Best CrossFit Shoes for Flat Feet, Wide Feet, and More (2023)

Best Budget Knee Sleeves: DMOOSE Reversible Knee Sleeves

DMoose Fitness Knee Sleeves

4.0

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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At the time of writing, the DMOOSE Reversibles retail at $39.00 but were on sale at $35.00. For knee sleeves, this is an excellent price at the 7mm thickness. Great quality 7mm knee sleeves generally range between $50.00 and $70.00, with the higher-end coming from popular name brands. Being only 35% of the cost of the top-tier SBD Powerlifting knee sleeves, these are definitely within reach for the budget-conscious lifter.

I’m impressed with the quality of these sleeves despite their economical price. With lower prices, you’ll usually see obvious corners cut: no double-stitched seams, 3-5mm thickness, and poor fits. However, these Reversibles break the mold in each category. 

They share the same durable double-stitched seams of more expensive sleeves, which means you get the same reassurance from knee sleeve blowouts. They feature the same 7mm thickness as pricier brands, so you get the same extra-supportive fee on your squats. They’re even anatomically shaped to ensure they’ll fit correctly for most people.

I’m pleasantly surprised that these are approved by the United States Powerlifting Association (USPA). To offer the lowest price, companies usually cut costs wherever they can, and competition approval is often the first to be discarded because the approval process is expensive. It’s only a single powerlifting federation, but the fact that these are approved for in-competition use in the USPA — which claims they’re the largest powerlifting federation — is a big plus. 

Despite being USPA-approved, they aren’t permitted for competition use in the IPF or IWF, and it’s unlikely they ever will be. As the most prestigious federations for powerlifting and weightlifting in the world, respectively, approval costs for equipment are significantly higher. Seeing these are budget-friendly knee sleeves, I think the lack of certification is entirely understandable.

The product page doesn’t specify what material these reversible knee sleeves are made of. Quality knee sleeves are almost always made with neoprene because of its stretchy support and compression. However, cheap knee sleeves can be made with similar-feeling materials that are lower in quality and durability than neoprene. Unlike the DMOOSE knee sleeves that won our Best Knee Sleeves Overall, assuming neoprene is the primary material might not be wise considering they’re such a budget-friendly price.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, solid overall construction, and USPA approval.

Best Knee Sleeves for Running: Rehband 3mm Knee Sleeves

Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene

4.0

• Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: XXS to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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When it comes to knee support while running, these Rehbands take the cake. They’re built with neoprene but in a lightweight 3mm thickness, which is just right as far as thickness goes. 

While great for weight lifting, 7mm is too much support and compression for running — even a thinner 5mm is still too thick. 3mm allows you to use your regular stride without modifying it unnaturally for your knee sleeve. The 3mm thickness keeps your knees warm while allowing for ample flexibility as you hit the road for miles, making it the best option for running.

Rehband has been around since 1955, and these knee sleeves are a testament to their reputation as a company. They’re handmade in Estonia, so they must adhere to higher manufacturing and working standards than other countries overseas, who might cut corners in their construction processes, or mistreat workers — resulting in lower-quality products. This means you can rely on knee sleeves from Rehband being higher quality than cheaper alternatives.

These knee sleeves for running come in seven sizes, from XXS to XXL. I’m happy to see this range of sizes because whether you have lean or heavily muscled legs, you can be reasonably sure you’ll find a size that will fit. More importantly, using their size chart to find an ideal size for your leg proportions will ensure your knee sleeves stay in place for your runs. 

These Rehbands aren’t ideal for CrossFit. The 3mm thickness is too thin to provide noticeable support for the heavier loads and impacts seen in strength-focused WODs from thrusters, box jumps, and barbell back squats. If you choose to use them for CrossFit anyway, they’ll still offer warmth and proprioception for your knees.

The Rehband 3mm’s are made from 70% SBR (styrene butadiene rubber). Compared to neoprene, SBR is lower quality because it has less compressive resistance. This would be a bigger concern if you needed to use them for weight lifting, so they’ll be just fine for running

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their ideal thickness for running, reputable manufacturing, and seven sizes available.

RELATED: Size Doesn’t Matter – But Your Technique Does (For Running, That Is)

Benefits of Knee Sleeves

Compression and Support

Knee sleeves offer a dual advantage of compression and support for your knees during lower body workouts, especially for exercises that involve bending and extending your knees. 

The compression they provide not only enhances blood circulation but also stabilizes the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and your kneecap. This added stability is a game-changer whether you’re an athlete or fitness enthusiast, allowing you to perform at your best while minimizing the risk of injury.

Increased Blood Flow

One of the often-overlooked benefits of knee sleeves is their ability to promote increased blood flow to the knee area. The compression from knee sleeves generates a gentle warmth, which feels comfortable and encourages better circulation.

Assistance “Out of the Hole” When Squatting 

For avid weightlifters, knee sleeves can be a lifeline for squats. They offer crucial assistance during the initial phase of a squat’s ascent, commonly called “coming out of the hole.” By providing additional support and stability, knee sleeves help lifters push through this challenging point in their squat, which can be a secret weapon in achieving new personal bests.

Increased Proprioception

Wearing knee sleeves can boost your proprioception, the body’s awareness of its position in space. With knee sleeves, you’ll have a heightened sense of where your knees are during squats, lunges, and step-ups. This increased awareness can make a significant difference, helping you maintain proper form and alignment. You’ll be more attuned to the way your knees bend and extend, potentially reducing the risk of improper movement that might lead to injury.

What to Consider When Buying Knee Sleeves

Materials and Construction

Knee sleeves are made from various materials, depending on their purpose. 

Sleeves for arthritis are often made with a cotton/spandex blend to ensure they’re breathable and comfortable to wear all day.

3mm to 7mm knee sleeves will almost exclusively be made with “neoprene,” a unique type of rubber-like foam material that’s also used as the primary material for wetsuits. Because of its stretchy form-fitting properties, it’s considered the gold standard for knee sleeves. 

Reinforced stitching is needed if you want a pair of knee sleeves that won’t unravel after a few months. This is commonly practiced by double-stitching, though cross-pattern double-stitching, like what’s used on the Element 26’s, is even better to reduce the chances of any threads coming loose.

Neoprene Quality

Neoprene comes in different qualities or grades, sometimes listed on knee sleeve product pages as SBR, SCR, and CR.

• SBR (styrene-butadiene-rubber) is the lowest quality of neoprene because it has lower compression resistance and is cheaper overall. Companies who don’t want to disclose that they use this lower-quality SBR material may try to list it as “neoprene” without mentioning the quality or grade.
• CR (chloroprene rubber) is the highest quality of neoprene. Despite its higher price, it has great elasticity and strength, making it an excellent choice for knee sleeves. Companies might mention using high-quality/high-grade neoprene when they use CR to demonstrate that their knee sleeves are genuinely made from premium neoprene.
• SCR (styrene chloroprene rubber) is a medium-grade neoprene that combines the properties and qualities of SBR and CR. This is a suitable happy medium for knee sleeve material as far as quality and value go.

Thickness

Knee sleeves come in various thicknesses depending on the activity you need them for. 

• 3mm is relatively thin and will only give light support and compression to your knees. Because of this, 3mm is best for cardio activities like running and endurance-focused CrossFit workouts, where you want warmth and lightweight support that won’t impair your joint flexibility.
• 5mm to 6mm will offer a medium level of support and compression. Because of its thicker layer, it’s ideal for hybrid activities like resistance-focused CrossFit metcons and circuit training.
• 7mm gives noticeably more support and compression for weight lifting. As a result, they’ll generally feel tighter, which makes them great for heavy squats, but they aren’t the most comfortable for longer workouts over two hours. 

Sizing

For starters, always use the brand’s fit guide to ensure you select the correct size of knee sleeves, providing a fit that’s not too tight or loose.

If you want more pop out of the hole, opt for a tighter pair of knee sleeves by sizing down. If you want them to be less compressive or restrictive, size up instead.

Sleeve Shape and Fit

There are no universal knee sleeve sizes or shapes, so the same knee sleeve size can feel and fit completely differently between two brands.

Generally, there are three knee sleeve shapes: straight, hourglass, and tapered. All of these shapes refer to the difference in widths between the top, middle, and bottom of the sleeve. 

• Straight is precisely as it sounds and is best for people with the same size of thighs, knees, and calves.
• Hourglass-shaped sleeves are smaller at the kneecap but are designed for larger thighs and calves.
• Tapered is the most common, which follows the standard anatomical shape of most people’s legs. The thighs are largest above the knee, followed by the knees, with the calves being the smallest.

Competition Approval

As a competitive powerlifter or weightlifter, practicing like you play will give you an advantage come meet day. Competition-approved allow you to use them in your training and get every pound out of them in your meet.

Federation rules vary widely, so check to see what knee sleeves are permitted for your federation. However, powerlifters and weightlifters should consider the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) approved equipment lists as the gold standards, respectively.

Competition-approved knee sleeves also tend to be more durable than their non-approved counterparts because the former must meet a specific standard for use in IPF and IWF meets.

Warranty

Warranties on support wear are underrated. I’d encourage you not to overlook one, just in case the knee sleeves don’t meet your performance standards or their threads unravel in a few short months. 

I’d recommend settling for no less than a six-month warranty. Support wear will inevitably wear and tear, so it’s unrealistic to expect them to endure forever. That said, a 1-year warranty is considered excellent for knee sleeves and will give you more peace of mind during your workouts.

Return Policy

To ensure you’re not stuck with a pair of ill-fitting knee sleeves, I recommend buying from a company that offers a fair return policy. That way, you can exchange them or get your money back if they don’t fit correctly.

At the bare minimum, they should allow you to return or exchange your knee sleeves within 14 days of receiving them, and you should be allowed to try them on to confirm the size you choose will work. Generous policies extend the return period to between 30 to 60 days.

Your Strength Level

Like any support wear, knee sleeves will experience wear and tear over time. However, this process will accelerate the stronger you are. 

As advanced or elite-level strength athletes lift significantly heavier weights than rank novices, their knee sleeves will take on more strain, wearing out faster. 

Colors

Not everyone loves the jet-black look. If you like color-coordinating your workout outfits, consider shopping with a brand that offers multiple colors. 

It’s a creative way to add some of your personality to your lifting gear. Plus, it’ll be hard to misplace your knee sleeves if they’re hot pink.

Final Thought

Knee sleeves are an excellent tool for supporting your knees and improving your squatting performance. When it comes down to it, though, picking the best knee sleeves for you depends on what you value regarding material, thickness, competition approval status, and more.

Best Knee Sleeves: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Knee Sleeves Overall	Best Knee Sleeves for Squats	Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting	Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis	Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting	Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit	Best Budget Knee Sleeves	Best Knee Sleeves for Running
DMoose Knee Sleeves	Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves	SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves	IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve	Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves	Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves	DMoose Reversible Knee Sleeves	Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.2	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0
Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: Seven millimeters Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: IPF	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL IPF/IWF-approved: IPF	Description: Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%) Thickness: Not listed Available sizes: XS to XL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Nylon-elastic blend Thickness: 3mm Available sizes: S to L IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene Thickness: 3mm Available sizes: XXS to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Knee Sleeves Overall

DMoose Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: Seven millimeters
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Knee Sleeves for Squats

Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting

SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis

IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%)
• Thickness: Not listed
• Available sizes: XS to XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting

Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: Yes

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Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit

Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Material: Nylon-elastic blend
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: S to L
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Budget Knee Sleeves

DMoose Reversible Knee Sleeves

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Knee Sleeves for Running

Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: XXS to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Check Price

FAQs

The post Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting, CrossFit, Running, and More (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As a public health professional, I aim to help individuals peel back the curtain so they can make an informed decision about what they consume. Today, hundreds of multivitamins sit on virtual and physical store shelves, making it challenging to pick the best one for you. At Breaking Muscle, we’ve decided to make this process easier by uncovering the eight best multivitamins on the marketplace today. Keep reading to find out which one is best for you and what you should pay attention to when reviewing the numerous options. 

How We Chose the Best Multivitamin

Coming up with a list of the best multivitamins was no easy feat. Nonetheless, we wanted to simplify the selection process for you, so we decided to put about two dozen multivitamins to the test. 

To narrow it down, the Breaking Muscle Team created a list of important factors that matter when picking a multivitamin. Those factors included assessing the ingredients, taste, smell, swallow-ability, side effects, third-party testing, and initial results. One by one, we tried and debriefed multivitamins and eliminated those that didn’t meet our standards. The result of this comprehensive testing process is the list you see below, with each multivitamin categorized based on the type of person it would benefit the most.  

Our Top Picks for the Best Multivitamin

• Best Multivitamin Overall: Transparent Labs Multivitamin
• Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50: Lifeforce Peak Healthspan
• Best Multivitamin for Men: Onnit Total Human
• Best Multivitamin for Women: Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+
• Best Men’s Multivitamin for Testosterone: XWERKS Rise
• Best Multivitamin for Women Over 50: Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+
• Best Women’s Multivitamin Gummy: Olly Women’s Multivitamin Gummy
• Best Multivitamin for Kids: Nature Made Kids First Multivitamin

Best Multivitamin Overall: Transparent Labs Multivitamin

Transparent Labs Multivitamin

4.0

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Four capsules
• Cost per serving: $1.00
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, calcium, thiamin, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc
• Certifications: Informed Choice Certified

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Whether you’re an athlete who has to watch the ingredients you consume or an individual who simply prefers premium ingredients, the Transparent Labs Multivitamin is a solid choice. Their formula consists of 19 essential vitamins and minerals that may reduce fatigue and support a healthy immune system. In addition, these nutrients are bioavailable, meaning they should be absorbed adequately so you can get the most out of them. The formula also includes supporting herbs and antioxidants, making it easily one of the best multivitamins overall. 

What’s impressive about this multivitamin is that it uses therapeutic doses, meaning that more of a nutrient is included than what’s needed in a day. Out of 19 vitamins and minerals, 11 of them provide more than 100 percent of the daily value. For example, there are 200 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B12, which is 8,333 percent of the daily value. Although that sounds like a lot, taking more than the daily recommended dose isn’t considered harmful because the body doesn’t store excess B12. What’s not used will be passed through urine. 

Vitamin B12 assists with creating DNA and also keeps our nerves and blood cells healthy. Those deficient in Vitamin B12 often feel weak and tired, which might explain why some people taking this multivitamin feel more energetic. 

Transparent Labs’ formulation also includes four other B vitamins (B1, B5, B6, and B7) but lacks the other three (B2, B3, and B9). In particular, the inclusion of B9 (folate/folic acid) would have been nice, as one study revealed that it may help prevent cardiovascular disease when combined with B12. (1) Nonetheless, this formulation still includes many other vital nutrients in high doses, like vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and chromium. 

One 2017 study revealed that vitamin C supplementation can prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. (2) A 2022 evidence-based review found that vitamin D may reduce the risk of falls, improve pain in those with fibromyalgia, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in patients with prediabetes. (3)

Research also shows that vitamin K assists with bone formation, insulin sensitivity, and preventing cancer. (4) The mineral chromium (a.k.a. Chromax) helps with the absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and aids blood glucose regulation. While it is found in some foods, it’s only in small amounts, so it’s great that they provide 67 micrograms here (193 percent of the daily value). 

The inclusion of organic ashwagandha, Coenzyme Q10, and boron set this vitamin and mineral supplement apart from the rest. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that can improve how the body handles stress, boosts cell-mediated immunity, and protects against cellular damage. (5) Coenzyme Q10, a fat-soluble compound, may reduce muscle pain and improve exercise performance. (6) Lastly, boron is necessary for the growth of bone and wound healing. In addition, it can reduce levels of inflammatory biomarkers. (7)

Overall, this dietary supplement has a lot to offer, and it does this at a reasonable price. A 30-serving container is $29.00. While that might very well be more than the ones you see in retail stores, it includes ingredients you likely wouldn’t find in those.

Plus, it has an Informed Choice certification, meaning that each month, at least one lot and/or batch is randomly tested for banned substances. One downside, however, is that one serving is equal to four capsules, which will be a no-go for many. 

Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50: Lifeforce Peak Healthspan

Lifeforce Peak Healthspan

3.7

• Form: Capsule 
• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: $3.83
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, niacin, vitamin B12, copper 
• Certifications: N/A

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Guys over 50 looking for a men’s multivitamin formulated with them in mind should consider Lifeforce’s Peak Healthspan. It has therapeutic dosages of vitamins and minerals that may help with cognitive health, multi-organ function, and cellular resilience. In addition, it includes unique blends of botanical nutrients known to assist with aging gracefully.

A quick look at the supplement facts label will reveal that this multivitamin has 156 percent of the daily value of vitamin D. But why so much? According to one study, vitamin D deficiency is common in older American men, especially during the spring and winter. (31) Interestingly, older men commonly deal with conditions that are potentially linked to a vitamin D deficiency, so supplementation is vital. 

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is found in ample amounts, too (813 percent of the daily value). This vitamin helps to convert nutrients into energy, makes fats and cholesterol, and creates and repairs DNA. The latter is especially important to older adults, as aging naturally results in cell damage, which can lead to cell death or mutation. (32) Fortunately, the antioxidant effects associated with niacin may be able to help. It also plays a role in helping the body create sex and stress-related hormones. This may explain why niacin aids in improving erectile function in some men. (33)

This multivitamin features NAD3, a propriety blend of Wasabi extract, theacrine, and cuprous niacin (copper and niacin). In a 2020 study on Wasabi, researchers found that this spice prevented the development of hypertension in rodents that followed a high-fat, high-carb diet. (34) Another study published that same year noted that it could assist in managing obesity, so Wasabi shows much promise. (35)

Theacrine is an alkaloid that’s structured similarly to caffeine and may increase physical performance. In a 2019 study, researchers found that male and female soccer players who used TeaCrine® (a compound containing pure theacrine) had increased performance capacity and endurance. (36) 

Another ingredient, BetaPower, shows some potential, too. Supplementation of betaine anhydrous has been shown to increase strength and power. (37) One study even revealed that it may reduce adipose tissue, which plays a role in age-related metabolic dysfunction. (38)(39) Adipose tissue causes inflammation and interferes with immune and skeletal muscle cells, so it’s nice to see an ingredient that combats that. 

For a 30-serving container, where one serving equals three capsules, you can expect to pay about $115. Peak Healthspan should be taken before lunch as it may cause jitteriness if taken too close to bedtime. In addition, not everyone requires three capsules, so pay attention to your body and adjust as needed. Lastly, it’s unclear if this men’s multivitamin is third-party tested, and it does include one allergen: sesame. 

Best Multivitamin for Men: Onnit Total Human

Onnit Total Human

3.9

• Form: Capsule packs
• Daily dose: One pack during the day and one at night
• Cost per serving: $4.50
• Key vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc
• Certifications: N/A

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Fellas, are you looking for a solid men’s multivitamin to boost your energy during the day and help you relax and recover at night? The Onnit Total Human multivitamin has just the key nutrients for that! However, it is probably unlike any other supplements you’ve tried. It includes two packets and multiple pills. You’re supposed to take one packet in the morning and another at night.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members who tested this multivitamin said he was able to swallow all the pills in one pack at the same time, but other people may want to break it up because it is a lot.

The daytime packet includes ingredients that may help with cognitive function, cardiovascular endurance, bone strength, and energy production. For example, there are therapeutic doses of all the B vitamins, vitamin E, and chromium. The packet has numerous trademarked blends, too, like the flow blend, performance blend, and immune blend, just to name a few. 

To give you an example, the performance blend includes cordyceps, green tea, ashwagandha, astragalus, and Rhodiola. Cordyceps is a fungus that may delay the aging process, increase natural endurance, and nourish the body’s immune system. (16) Rhodiola has traditionally been used to manage stress-induced fatigue and improve physical performance. (17)

The nighttime packet has ingredients that can promote relaxation, immune system support, and total body support. You’ll find therapeutic doses of vitamin B6 and vitamin C, which are both associated with enhancing immune function. The nighttime pills also contain vitamin D. A study found that men with low levels of that nutrient may be twice as likely to have a heart attack, so the inclusion of vitamin D in Onnit Total Human is noteworthy. (18)

There’s also a trademarked tranquility blend with valerian root, chamomile, lemon balm, and jujube. Valerian root has historically been used as a sleep aid, and chamomile can help promote calmness. (19)(20) Lemon balm may improve symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, while jujube has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial functions. (21)(22)

Some ingredients show up in both the daytime and nighttime packets. For instance, turmeric, fish oil, krill oil, spirulina, and chlorella are there to encourage all-day general wellness. Turmeric, a spice often used for medicinal purposes, can help to manage inflammatory and oxidative conditions. (23) It also has the potential to boost recovery and performance in those who exercise. Krill oil is said to help with muscle recovery following resistance exercise and may even assist with brain development and improved cognition. (24)(25)

With all these ingredients, you would think there’d be some notable side effects, but our tester only experienced more vivid dreams. A couple of consumers said it made them feel sluggish, though, so it depends on the person. My partner, who was deployed overseas with guys who used this exact supplement, said that people swore by them. Since they couldn’t follow a balanced diet, these came in handy. 

For around $137.95, you’d get a 30-day supply of various vitamins, minerals, and botanical nutrients. If you’re not ready to completely take the plunge, consider getting a seven-day supply for about $25.97. Onnit offers a Keep-It Money-Back Guarantee, so if you get a trial size and don’t like it, you can get a refund without returning the product. 

Best Multivitamin for Women: Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+

4.0

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.10
• Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, vitamin E
• Certifications: USP Verified, Non-GMO Project-verified

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It’s not every day that a multivitamin has been peer-reviewed, but the Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+ has, which is why it’s our top choice for a women’s multivitamin.

The study divulged that women who used their multivitamin supplement had seen increases in vitamin D and omega-3 DHA levels in 12 weeks. (8) While this is certainly promising, there were some study limitations. For one, the participants were young and healthy, so it’s unclear if these vitamins would be helpful to someone with a metabolic condition. In addition, it’s unclear how much physical activity or sunlight exposure participants had, which could’ve altered vitamin D and omega-3 levels. Therefore, keep these things in mind as you assess if this is the best women’s multivitamin for you. 

What’s interesting here is that this daily multivitamin does not offer as many essential nutrients as others. Ritual stands by the “less is more” phenomenon. For instance, you’re not going to find copper, selenium, calcium, or vitamin C in this product because 1) they feel you’re probably already getting enough of those nutrients from your diet, and 2) too much of some nutrients can negatively impact another.

According to WomensHealth.gov, the following essential nutrients are important for women’s health: vitamins B9, B12, and D, as well as calcium and iron. The Ritual multivitamin includes four out of five of those but also includes a few other ingredients. But first, let’s clarify why the four vitamins we need and that are included in this formula are important. 

Vitamin B9 (folate) is crucial for women, especially if they plan on getting pregnant. The body needs it to make new cells and assist with protein metabolism. Not having enough during pregnancy could result in congenital disabilities. This is why you’ll usually see this ingredient in prenatal multivitamins. It may help with fertility as well. One study even revealed that a high intake of supplemental folic acid (>800 micrograms per day) correlated with increased implantation rates, clinical pregnancy, and live births. (9) This supplement happens to have 1,000 micrograms. 

Studies show that adequate levels of vitamin B12 are associated with maintaining pregnancy and ovarian health. (10) Ritual’s multivitamin provides 333 percent of the daily value, so women will get a dosage that’s generous enough to accommodate their nutritional needs. 

RELATED: Best Probiotic for Women

Then there’s vitamin D, a nutrient needed to help absorb calcium and maintain bone health. (11) As women age, they experience a decrease in estrogen, a hormone that prevents bones from getting weaker. Ritual’s multivitamin can help. In fact, one study found a 23–43% reduction in the risk of a hip fracture in women who used vitamin D3. (12) Another study even discovered that increased vitamin D levels could improve muscle performance. (13)

Our bodies need iron to create hemoglobin, but menstruation, childbirth, and pregnancy can cause an iron deficiency. Such a deficiency can lead to decreased exercise capacity, extreme fatigue, and poor work performance. (14) Thankfully, this multivitamin provides 44 percent of the daily value. 

Other nutrients found in this supplement include vitamin E, magnesium, boron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin K2. A study revealed that vitamin E is highly beneficial to female reproductive health. (15) This essential vitamin is associated with improved endometrial thickness, reduced risk of pregnancy complications and pelvic pain, and a slowed progression of gynecological cancer. 

I can’t forget to mention that each ingredient is traceable, meaning you can find the supplier and final place of manufacturing on Ritual’s website. This multivitamin is also USP (United States Pharmacopeia)-Verified. Such a designation lets consumers know that this product was created following the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices and doesn’t include harmful levels of certain contaminants. Their delayed-release capsules are made with their patented beadlet in oil technology, which is said to help with absorbency. There’s also a hint of mint to make taking two pills a day more enjoyable. 

Besides the subscription model and the $33 per month price tag, users are generally satisfied with this multivitamin. The Breaking Muscle product testing team enjoys the minty flavor and finds the capsules easy to swallow. They also noted that they didn’t experience any side effects, while other multivitamin tablets cause stomach upset.

For more, check out our full Ritual Vitamins Review.

Best Men’s Multivitamin for Testosterone: XWERKS Rise

XWERKS Rise

3.8

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.63
• Key vitamins and minerals: Zinc, tongkat ali powder, shilajit extract, BioPerine, and boron
• Certifications: N/A

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Looking for a multivitamin that may help boost your testosterone levels? If yes, consider XWERKS Rise. Its unique formula may naturally optimize nutrient and mineral intake so you can become stronger and feel more energized. Admittedly, this one has the most unrecognizable active ingredients compared to other multivitamins on this list. Besides zinc and boron, the rest will leave you wondering, “What in the world is this?” As a result, I’ll explain each ingredient so you can discern if XWERKS Rise will meet your needs. 

Before jumping into the supplement facts, let me clarify why testosterone is important. Testosterone is a sex hormone that contributes to muscle size and strength because it stimulates protein synthesis. It gives men masculine characteristics and is especially important if you’re bulking. Therefore, a lack of it could stand in the way of your fitness goals. 

Although exercise, particularly resistance training, can boost serum testosterone concentration to some degree, factors like age, stress, poor sleep hygiene, and a higher body weight could inhibit that. (42)(43) In fact, research shows that after age 35, there is often a decline in circulating testosterone concentration. (44) As a result, having a solution like XWERKS Rise could make a difference in muscle optimization. 

You’ll see 15 milligrams of zinc on the supplement facts label, which makes up 136 percent of the daily value. A 2022 study revealed a correlation between zinc deficiencies and low testosterone levels. (45) Another study looked at men who received 30 milligrams of zinc daily and found increased testosterone levels in their bodies. (46) Therefore, it’s safe to assume that including this nutrient in XWERKS Rise is one way to promote muscle building. 

Tongkat ali powder is an herbal medicinal plant that may increase testosterone levels and lessen symptoms associated with aging changes in males. In a study of 13 physically active men who received the plant, researchers discovered that all participants had increased free testosterone and muscular force. (47)

Shilajit extract, a powder found in the rocks of the Himalayas, is associated with boosting testosterone levels, too. A clinical study showed a significant increase in testosterone in men aged 45 to 55 who received 250 milligrams of Shilajit twice daily. (48)

Even BioPerine, a type of black pepper that may be easier for the body to absorb, impacts testosterone. In a 2018 study, rats were given five to 10 milligrams of BioPerine in Vitro, and their testosterone levels increased as well. (49)

So, does XWERKS Rise work? Well, the research behind its ingredients certainly suggests that it does! But, as with any supplement, it’s no miracle solution. In addition, you should use caution with supplements like this, as increasing your testosterone levels could come with some undesirable side effects, like mood and skin changes. 

For around $49, you’ll get a 30-serving container. You’re supposed to take two capsules daily, and XWERKS suggests you pair it with their Ashwa (ashwagandha) gummies. 

RELATED: Best Testosterone Boosters

Best Multivitamin for Women Over 50: Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+

4.0

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.30
• Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, magnesium
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project-verified, certified carbon-free

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For women over 50, it’s important to get a good helping of calcium, potassium, omega-3 fats, and vitamins B12 and D. After menopause, women require more calcium and vitamin D to combat osteoporosis and prevent fractures. (26)

As we age, it also becomes more difficult for our bodies to absorb vitamin B12. (27) Research on omega-3 fatty acids even shows that those who consume this nutrient may have less cognitive decline. In addition, a 2021 study showed evidence that fish oil improves heart health. (28) Therefore, finding a multivitamin that includes at least some of these essential nutrients that support healthy aging is critical. The Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+ checks some of those boxes. 

Like the other Ritual multivitamins on this list, this one also includes traceable ingredients and a delayed-release capsule design with a mint flavor. It has no artificial colorants or GMOs and is free of major allergens and gluten. What’s different, though, is that there are more of the vitamins E, B12, and K, as well as high-quality magnesium.

Some research found that women over 65 taking vitamin E had a 26 percent decrease in nonfatal heart attacks and a 49 percent decrease in cardiovascular death rates. In addition, vitamin K may have a protective effect against age-related conditions like osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease. (29) Also, growing older is associated with a change in magnesium metabolism, and deficits in this mineral are connected with sleep disorders, muscular diseases, psychiatric conditions, and bone fragility. (30) So, including more of those nutrients in this formulation is a good idea. 

While it’s missing calcium, your current diet likely already satisfies this nutrient need. Calcium is found in many food sources, like yogurt, kale, spinach, tofu, and even almond milk. This multivitamin includes calcium-helper nutrients, though, like boron, D3, K2, and magnesium. You’ll also notice that iron isn’t included in their formulation, and there’s a good reason for that. The need for iron decreases following menopause; thus, extra iron isn’t recommended for older women. In addition, it could cause GI side effects, like heartburn, cramps, and nausea. 

The stomach acid-resistant vegan capsule does help with absorption, but the form of some of these ingredients plays a role, too. For example, Ritual uses chelated magnesium, which may be more easily absorbed by the body.

For $39.00, you’re getting a 30-day supply of a well-formulated multivitamin that aids in supporting the health of older adults. Each batch is tested in-house, and third-party testing is occasionally done as well for good measure. However, do note that this is a subscription, so once you purchase one, you’ll automatically be sent another one a month later. If you want to change or cancel your subscription, you can do so from your account page on the Ritual website. 

RELATED: Best Greens Powder

Best Women’s Multivitamin Gummy: Olly Women’s Multivitamin Gummy

OLLY Women's Multivitamin Gummy

4.7

• Form: Gummy
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $0.31
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, biotin, zinc, B vitamins
• Certifications: NSF Certified

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Whether I’m looking for gummy vitamins at Target or Amazon, one women’s multivitamin supplement I know I will see on the shelves is Olly. It’s practically everywhere! Plus, its affordable price is attractive to ladies on a budget. 

Olly is void of artificial flavors and colors. It provides 18 essential nutrients, including all eight B vitamins. The other women’s multivitamins on this list are missing all of them except B9 and B12, so it’s nice to see them here. Although B1 (thiamin) deficiencies are rare, pregnant and breastfeeding women need more of it. The same goes for vitamin B2. Vegans, vegetarians, and pregnant women are at greater risk of deficiency, so a little boost could go a long way. 

By taking this multivitamin, you’ll be able to satisfy 100 percent of the daily value for vitamins D, E, B5, B6, B9, and iodine. In women of reproductive age, iodine deficiency is becoming more common. (40) It can lead to fertility issues, an enlarged thyroid gland, thinning hair, and impaired mental function. 

There are also nutrients that more than exceed the recommended daily value, such as vitamin B12 and biotin. Biotin assists with breaking down the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in food. However, it’s also popular in the beauty industry, as it’s claimed to help with brittle and thinning hair. (41) This multivitamin has 150 micrograms of biotin, which makes up 500 percent of the daily value. While that might seem like way too much, it’s still considered safe. B12 and biotin are water-soluble, so taking high doses is still safe since you’ll just end up urinating what your body doesn’t need. 

As previously mentioned, this multivitamin is NSF Certified, meaning NSF International conducts random onsite inspections of products and manufacturing facilities to ensure they meet specific standards. They review supplement labels to ensure what’s stated is actually in the bottle, conduct a contamination review, and complete a toxicology review to verify product formulation. Since the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t assess and approve dietary supplements before they hit the market, it’s always nice when a company goes through this extra third-party testing. 

The majority of consumers love these berry-flavored gummies but aren’t a fan of the smell. A member of the Breaking Muscle team even says they taste pretty good but smell kind of odd. She also mentions that they have a weird aftertaste. Also, these wouldn’t be suitable for those following a vegetarian or plant-based diet. Gelatin is one of their ingredients, and it’s made from animal collagen. 

Overall, for about $13.99, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Olly gummies are easy to take, offer several essential nutrients, and come from a Certified B Corporation. Companies with that designation must meet certain environmental and social performance standards.  

Best Multivitamin for Kids: Nature Made’s Kids First® Multivitamin + Omega-3 Gummies

Nature Made Kids First Multivitamin

4.0

• Form: Gummy 
• Daily dose: One to two gummies
• Cost per serving: $0.25
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamins D3 and B12, Omega-3
• Certifications: USP Verified

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We all know that good nutrition is necessary for proper child development, but getting kids to eat nutritious food isn’t always easy. They either don’t like the taste or the texture. Or maybe they’re not picky at all, but you just want to make sure they’re getting what they need. Whatever the case, a great multivitamin for kids, like Nature Made’s Kids First® Multivitamin + Omega-3 Gummies, is a practical solution. 

Nutritional deficiencies among children aren’t as likely in the United States, but one of the most common deficiencies is vitamin D. (50) Nature Made Kids First Multivitamin contains 25 micrograms of vitamin D. This makes up 125 percent of the daily value for children over four years old, which is plenty. Kids need this important nutrient to build strong bones and teeth. 

Children need a good supply of B vitamins too, as those assist with energy production, metabolism, and more. (51) While not all of them are included here, four of them are: B3, B6, B9, and B12. A 2016 study established that vitamin B12 plays a significant role in child growth and brain development. (52) Fortunately, three micrograms of that is provided in this formula (equal to 125 percent of the daily value). 

Some of the other vitamins and minerals you’ll find here are vitamins A, C, E, and zinc. Vitamin A helps with vision and cell growth, vitamin C and zinc are necessary for combatting infections, and vitamin E assists with neurodevelopment in children. (53)(54) 

One other key ingredient in this formula is omega-3 fatty acids (113.5 milligrams). A 2020 study found that omega-3 supplementation during childhood may reduce the risk of allergic diseases, like asthma and eczema. (55) This is huge, as asthma is the leading chronic disease in children and could result in quality of life and study performance issues. (56)

This Nature Made kids multivitamin is free of artificial flavors and sweeteners, synthetic dyes, gluten, and high fructose corn syrup. It does have two grams of added sugar, though. One consumer commented that the sugar coating leaves a bad aftertaste and leaves her kiddos with sticky fingers. 

For $17.59, you’ll get 70 gummies, which should last a little over a month or two, but how long they last really depends on the child’s age. It’s suggested that children between four and 13 take one a day, while those aged 14 to 18 should take two daily. Before you buy, understand that this product contains gelatin, so it’s not the best choice for vegans or vegetarians. Nonetheless, most kids find them tasty, and the gummies are USP-verified. 

What Are the Benefits of Taking a Multivitamin?

Many people take multivitamins these days, but what is the benefit of doing so? I’ll share two major reasons below. 

Potential Health Benefits 

During different stages of our lives, our bodies need more of certain vitamins and minerals. The multivitamins for men and women over 50 often include more vitamin B12, while those for women of childbearing age contain more folic acid. Taking certain medications or having malabsorption conditions could change or prevent how your body digests and absorbs nutrients.

Imagine you have a cold. What do you reach for besides medicine? It’s probably vitamin C, which may boost your immune system.

Another example is if you notice problems with your hair and/or skin. It’s not uncommon to seek nutrients like vitamin E and/or biotin. 

Convenience

Multivitamins help busy folks fill their nutritional gaps. Many of us are on the go and simply can’t make multiple balanced meals daily. Instead of going without your body’s nutrients, you could just take a capsule or gummy. 

When Is the Best Time to Take a Multivitamin?

Most of the time, it’s best to take your multivitamin in the morning with food. However, double-check the instructions on the container to be sure. Some products, like the nighttime packet that comes with Onnit’s Total Human multivitamin, are meant to be taken before bed. 

What To Consider When Buying a Multivitamin

I’ve purchased A LOT of multivitamins over the years, and honestly, I based my purchasing decisions on brand popularity and cost. Now that I’m more intentional about things like this, I pay attention to so much more than that. Unfortunately, many of those multivitamins ended up sitting in my medicine cabinet far past the expiration date, and I don’t want the same thing to happen to you. Therefore, here’s what you’ll want to consider when buying a multivitamin. 

Individual Needs

Once upon a time, I followed a plant-based diet, and I can remember how tired I used to feel. After researching, I realized that I was more than likely nutrient deficient and decided to add a multivitamin to fill in the gaps. I eventually started to feel better. 

Today, I’m back consuming some meats, but because I live in a cold state where I tend to hibernate for four to six months, I occasionally lack vitamin D. As a result, my doctor urges me to take a vitamin D3 supplement. 

I’m sharing all that to clarify that you should pick multivitamins based on your individual needs. We all consume different foods and reside in different areas, so get nutrients you might not get from your diet or environment. 

Dosage

When selecting a multivitamin, pay attention to the dosage of each ingredient. Also, take a look at the serving size to learn how much you’d need to take to get the dosage on the bottle. Some will say you must take two pills, while others might say eight. Taking less than the stated serving size may mean you don’t get the full effect, but taking more could be harmful. For example, consuming an excessive amount of magnesium could lead to difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, and/or an irregular heartbeat. 

Percent Daily Values

In addition to the dosage, look at the Percent Daily Values (% DV). This tells us how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to an individual on a 2,000-calorie diet. To give you some perspective, the Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+ provides 45 percent of the daily value of vitamin E, so you’d need to get the rest from somewhere else. However, it also contains 250 percent of the daily value for folate, which should more than satisfy your need for this nutrient. 

Ultimately, it all depends on your individual needs. Those with malabsorption issues may require more of certain nutrients to maintain good health. It’s best to check in with your physician and/or a registered dietitian to be sure. 

Pre-Existing Health Conditions

Those with pre-existing conditions should avoid some vitamins and minerals. This is mainly because the prescription medications you take for your condition may not interact well with them. Fish oil, for instance, may increase the risk of bleeding, which isn’t good if you’re on a medication that reduces blood clotting. 

Potential Interactions With Other Medications

Before taking a new multivitamin supplement, ensure it won’t negatively interfere with your medications. For instance, curcumin, a substance in turmeric, may change how your body interacts with antihistamines, antidepressants, antibiotics, and more. (57)

You might’ve also noticed that most multivitamins only have a small dose of potassium. A large dosage of this nutrient is banned because many people take potassium channel blockers, a type of blood pressure medication. These can actually raise your potassium levels and even lead to cardiac arrest. Therefore, they simply limit how much supplements can contain to prevent a drug-nutrient interaction. 

If you’re unsure if you should be taking certain nutrients along with your medications, call your pharmacist and/or doctor. It’s always better to be safe! 

Form

On this best multivitamins list, you probably noticed that many options came in capsule form. However, we included some soft gels and gummies, too. Always pay attention to the form and be honest with yourself about which form you prefer. If you know you hate capsules, you should probably look to soft gels and/or gummies. If you don’t like pills at all, gummies are ultimately a better alternative.

However, keep in mind that gummies tend to have added sugar and extra ingredients. Take a look at the Olly Women’s Multi, for example. It has two grams of added sugar and over 10 “other ingredients.” 

Certifications and Third-Party Testing

Many people are shocked by this, but the FDA doesn’t review dietary supplements before they become available for purchase. As a result, companies can sell multivitamins without verifying if they’re safe or effective. This is precisely why third-party testing and certifications are so important. They show that the company took the extra step to verify if their product is safe. 

Brands like Transparent Labs and Ritual have batches tested for contaminants and/or banned substances. For consumers, this provides extra peace of mind. After all, no one wants to take a multivitamin to potentially improve their health just to find mercury and lead in it. 

Certifications, like the one from the Non-GMO Project, ensure that companies follow guidelines and standards that limit the risk of genetically modified organisms. If you pay attention, you’ll notice that many multivitamins say “non-GMO,” but they don’t have the Non-GMO Project Verified seal. 

Ultimately, a product not being certified doesn’t mean it’s harmful or unsafe, but you do want to take precautions. If you’d prefer multivitamins that are third-party tested, look for Informed Choice/Sport, USP-Verified, NSF, and/or USDA Organic marks on the container. 

Final Thoughts

I, and so many others on the Breaking Muscle team, have tried multivitamins that we eventually abandoned because they didn’t give us the results we hoped for. We don’t want you to have that same experience. As a result, we put this round-up together to help you make an informed decision and not waste your hard-earned money. After all, many of these options aren’t cheap! 

Be sure to check with your doctor before taking a new multivitamin. While they are generally safe, ensuring they are specifically safe for you is best.   

Best Multivitamin: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Multivitamin Overall	Best Multivitamin for Women	Best Multivitamin for Men	Best Multivitamin for Women Over 50	Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50	Best Women's Multivitamin Gummy	Best Men's Multivitamin for Testosterone	Best Multivitamin for Kids
Transparent Labs Multivitamin	Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+	Onnit Total Human	Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+	Lifeforce Peak Healthspan	OLLY Women's Multivitamin Gummy	XWERKS Rise	Nature Made Kids First Multivitamin
Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 3.9	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 3.7	Primary Rating: 4.7	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 4.0
Description: Form: Capsule Daily dose: Four capsules Cost per serving: $1.00 Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, calcium, thiamin, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc Certifications: Informed Choice Certified	Description: Form: Capsule Daily dose: Two  Cost per serving: $1.10 Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, vitamin E Certifications: USP Verified, Non-GMO Project-verified	Description: Form: Capsule packs Daily dose: One pack during the day and one at night Cost per serving: $4.50 Key vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc Certifications: N/A	Description: Form: Capsule Daily dose: Two  Cost per serving: $1.30 Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, magnesium Certifications: Non-GMO Project-verified, certified carbon-free	Description: Form: Capsule  Daily dose: Three capsules Cost per serving: $3.83 Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, niacin, vitamin B12, copper  Certifications: N/A	Description: Form: Gummy Daily dose: Two  Cost per serving: $0.31 Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, biotin, zinc, B vitamins Certifications: NSF Certified	Description: Form: Capsule Daily dose: Two  Cost per serving: $1.63 Key vitamins and minerals: Zinc, tongkat ali powder, shilajit extract, BioPerine, and boron Certifications: N/A	Description: Form: Gummy  Daily dose: One to two gummies Cost per serving: $0.25 Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamins D3 and B12, Omega-3 Certifications: USP Verified
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Best Multivitamin Overall

Transparent Labs Multivitamin

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Four capsules
• Cost per serving: $1.00
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, calcium, thiamin, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc
• Certifications: Informed Choice Certified

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Best Multivitamin for Women

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 18+

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.10
• Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, vitamin E
• Certifications: USP Verified, Non-GMO Project-verified

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Best Multivitamin for Men

Onnit Total Human

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Form: Capsule packs
• Daily dose: One pack during the day and one at night
• Cost per serving: $4.50
• Key vitamins and minerals: B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc
• Certifications: N/A

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Best Multivitamin for Women Over 50

Ritual Essential for Women Multivitamin 50+

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.30
• Key vitamins and minerals: Folate, omega-3 DHA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, magnesium
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project-verified, certified carbon-free

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Best Multivitamin for Men Over 50

Lifeforce Peak Healthspan

Primary Rating:

3.7

Description:

• Form: Capsule 
• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: $3.83
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, niacin, vitamin B12, copper 
• Certifications: N/A

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Best Women's Multivitamin Gummy

OLLY Women's Multivitamin Gummy

Primary Rating:

4.7

Description:

• Form: Gummy
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $0.31
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, biotin, zinc, B vitamins
• Certifications: NSF Certified

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Best Men's Multivitamin for Testosterone

XWERKS Rise

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Form: Capsule
• Daily dose: Two 
• Cost per serving: $1.63
• Key vitamins and minerals: Zinc, tongkat ali powder, shilajit extract, BioPerine, and boron
• Certifications: N/A

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Best Multivitamin for Kids

Nature Made Kids First Multivitamin

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Form: Gummy 
• Daily dose: One to two gummies
• Cost per serving: $0.25
• Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamins D3 and B12, Omega-3
• Certifications: USP Verified

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