How to Customise a Weightlifting Belt: The Complete Guide to Custom Weightlifting Belts

Walking into the gym with a belt that screams "generic" is like showing up to a powerlifting meet with bargain-bin shoes. Sure, it might get the job done, but you're missing out on something that could genuinely elevate your training experience. Custom weightlifting belts aren't just about looking good, though they definitely do that. They're more about giving you equipment that’s specifically built for your body, your goals, and your lifting style.

After years of watching lifters struggle with ill-fitting belts that either dig into their ribs or fail to provide adequate support, I've seen firsthand how the right custom belt can transform someone's training. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about creating the perfect custom weightlifting belt.

Why Choose a Custom Weightlifting Belt?

The biggest advantage of going custom isn't the flashy logos or colour combinations. It's the fit. Generic belts are made for the "average" lifter, but here's the reality: there's no such thing as an average lifter. Some people have longer torsos, others have shorter ones. Some need a belt that sits higher on their waist, while others prefer it lower. Custom weightlifting belts address these individual differences in ways that off-the-shelf options simply can't.

When you customise a belt, you're not just picking a size from a chart. You're specifying exactly where you want the belt to sit, how tight you prefer it, and what kind of support feels best for your lifting style. This translates to better intra-abdominal pressure, more consistent bracing, and ultimately, safer lifts.

Other reasons are: 

1. Brand Personalisation and Style

Let's be honest. Looking good in the gym matters. Not because you're trying to impress anyone, but because when you feel confident in your gear, you perform better. Custom belts allow you to represent your gym, your country, or just your personal style in a way that mass-produced belts never could.

For instance, imagine wearing this anime-themed lifting belt from our custom lifting belts collection: 

Belts like this are sure to turn heads! 

I've seen lifters add everything from their powerlifting federation logos to motivational quotes that push them through tough training sessions. Some opt for national flag designs, while others go with clean, minimalist approaches. The point is, it's yours. Personalise it! 

2. Competitive Edge for Powerlifting and Bodybuilding

In competitive lifting, every advantage counts. A belt that fits perfectly and provides optimal support can be the difference between hitting a PR and missing a lift. Custom belts are built to your exact specifications, which means they work exactly how you need them to when you're under maximum load.

For IFBB competitors and serious bodybuilders, a custom belt also serves as a professional statement. When you're on stage or in competition prep, the details on your belt show that you're committed to excellence at every level.

See this custom belt we made for Amy, an IFBB pro: 

It's a simple way to showcase your professional achievements! 

3. Emotional Connection and Motivation

This might sound intangible, but it’s real. When you wear something that has your name, your values, or even your favourite character on it, the emotional connection to your training deepens. That belt becomes a symbol of your goals and your commitment.

See this from one of our customers: 

I’ve seen athletes reach for their belt before a big lift, not just because it offers support, but because it represents the mindset they need to step under that bar. Motivation can come from unexpected places, and for many, their custom belt is a powerful mental anchor during hard sessions.

Who Should Use Custom Belts?

Powerlifters, Olympic Lifters, and Gym Enthusiasts

If you're lifting heavy regularly, and by heavy, I mean approaching or exceeding bodyweight multiples in your main lifts, you need a custom belt, and here’s why.   

Powerlifters benefit from the improved stability and perfect fit during max attempts. And for Olympic lifters, they can specify the exact flexibility and taper they need for dynamic movements.

Even gym enthusiasts who aren't competing benefit from weightlifting belts. If you're deadlifting twice your bodyweight or squatting big loads multiple times per week, you’re putting real stress on your core and spine, and the last thing you want is a generic belt that shifts mid-set or doesn’t lock in right. A custom belt gives you the exact width, thickness, and support where you need it.

IFBB Competitors and Serious Fitness Athletes

For IFBB competitors, a custom belt isn't just about lifting—it's about your career. The performance benefits are obvious, but there's a professional side that many people overlook.

Your gear is part of your brand. When you're on stage, in training videos, or at sponsored events, everything you wear sends a message. Generic gym equipment doesn't cut it when you're building a reputation in the fitness industry.

Think about it: IFBB pros are athletes, influencers, and business owners rolled into one. Your belt appears in every heavy training session you film, every competition prep photo, and every sponsored post. A custom belt featuring your competition's colours, sponsor logos, or personal branding is a smart business move.

Check out this belt we made for a customer who’s an IFBB pro: 

Key Types of Weightlifting Belts You Can Customise

1. Lever Belts vs. Prong Belts

The closure system is one of the most critical decisions you'll make when customising a belt. Lever and prongs are the two main types of closure systems: 

Lever belt: 

Lever belts use a quick-release mechanism that allows you to get in and out of the belt rapidly. This is most valuable during competitions or high-intensity training sessions where you need to put the belt on and take it off frequently.

This is how it looks: 

Prong belts

Prong belts utilise a traditional buckle system featuring one or more prongs that pass through holes in the belt. They're infinitely adjustable within the range of holes, making them ideal if your waist size fluctuates or if multiple people will be using the belt. Here’s an example of a prong belt: 

Velcro closure belts are also common. They're lightweight, easy to fasten, and provide just enough support for dynamic movements like box jumps, cleans, and thrusters. While they don’t offer the same rigidity as lever or prong belts, they shine in workouts that blend strength and speed. 

If you're customising a Velcro belt, you can still control aspects like thickness, width, and even graphic design; however, don’t expect it to last forever under maximum deadlifts.

When to Choose Each Type

Choose a lever belt if you're primarily focused on powerlifting or if you frequently train alone. The quick on/off capability is invaluable during meet prep when you're doing multiple heavy singles and need to get the belt off quickly between attempts.

Choose a prong belt if: 

• You do a variety of training styles, 
• Your weight fluctuates constantly, or 
• You value the traditional feel and infinite adjustability. 

In my experience, many Olympic lifters prefer prong belts because they can fine-tune the tightness for different movements within the same training session.

Overall, no matter which you choose, comfort and confidence are non-negotiable. The best belt is the one that helps you brace better, lift more safely, and stay focused, not one you’re constantly adjusting. So consider your goals and how the belt feels under pressure, because that’s when it matters most.

2. Powerlifting vs. Bodybuilding Belts

Powerlifting belts are uniform in width all the way around. It’s usually 4 inches, which is the maximum allowed in most federations. They're designed for maximum support during the squat, bench press, and deadlift. The uniform width provides consistent support around your entire midsection.

These are our best-selling powerlifting belts: 

Shibusa Premium Leather Powerlifting Belt 

One of our customers, Carl Batson, who purchased our powerlifting belt, said it’s “strong, comfortable, and stands up to all the punishment a daily gym session throws at it.”

“I’ve been hitting the gym for over 40 years, and gotten through many belts. Some fall apart in hours, some in months, very few make it in actual years - Gunsmith does.

Hand on heart, this belt is probably the best I’ve owned - strong, comfortable, and standing up to all the punishment a daily gym session can throw at it. I’ve ordered another one only because my original was mislaid - it just had to be another Gunsmith.”

On the other hand, bodybuilding (or Olympic) belts feature a tapered design, wider in the back (around 4 inches) and narrower in the front (2-3 inches). This design accommodates the wider range of movements that bodybuilders perform while still providing substantial support for heavy compound lifts.

This is another bestselling powerlifting belt from the Shibusa line: 

Leather weightlifting belts 

Leather remains the go-to choice for serious lifters, and for good reason. 

Full-grain leather is the most durable option. It’s tough, long-lasting, and moulds to your body over time, though it does take a few sessions to break in. Top-grain leather, on the other hand, is slightly more processed but still delivers excellent support and a softer feel from day one. 

Another premium option is vegetable-tanned leather. This type is crafted using natural plant-based tannins rather than harsh chemicals. It starts firm and slightly lighter in tone, but with use, it develops a rich, dark patina that reflects your training journey.  

I’ll share more about this later. 

4. Suede and Nylon weightlifting belts 

Suede belts provide the support of leather with a softer feel against the body. They're popular among lifters who find traditional leather belts too harsh. The suede surface also grips clothing well and prevents the belt from sliding during lifts.

Nylon belts are the most flexible option and are popular among CrossFit athletes and Olympic lifters who require quick transitions between exercises. They're comfortable from day one, but generally don't provide as much rigid support as leather options.

How to Customise Your Weightlifting Belt

Here are some helpful tips to customise your weightlifting belt: 

Step 1: Choose a Material  

There are different types of materials used for weightlifting belts, but here are the common ones: 

• Full-grain leather 
• Split leather 
• Vegetable tanned leather 
• Suede 

Let’s take a brief look at each and their best use cases: 

I. Full-grain leather 

Full-grain leather is the premium choice for custom belts. It's made from the top layer of the hide and retains all the natural grain, making it the most durable option available. These belts will last decades with proper care and improve with age as they mould to your body.

Best for: Lifters who want a buy-once, cry-once investment. If you're regularly squatting and deadlifting heavy (think 80 %+ of your max), full-grain leather provides the rigid support you need for maximum bracing.

ii. Split leather 

Split leather is made from the lower layers of the hide after the top grain has been removed. It's more affordable, but it lacks the same durability and natural beauty as full-grain or vegetable-tanned leather. However, it can still make an excellent belt for most lifters.

Best for: Intermediate lifters who want leather quality without the premium price tag, or those who prefer replacing gear more frequently rather than keeping the same belt for decades.

iii. Vegetable tanned leather 

Vegetable-tanned leather is processed using natural tannins rather than chemicals. This creates a firmer, more supportive belt that's also more environmentally friendly. We use vegetable-tanned leather because it lasts long (regardless of the use) and holds embossing and tooling better.

Best for: Lifters who want maximum support and don't mind a more extended break-in period. Also perfect if you're planning elaborate, custom designs, as the material holds fine details beautifully.

IV. Suede Lining 

Many custom belts feature suede lining on the inside surface that contacts your body. This improves comfort, especially during the break-in period. The suede also helps prevent the belt from sliding around during lifts, which can be valuable during deadlifts or rows.

Best for: Anyone who values comfort without sacrificing performance, or lifters who do high-volume sessions where belt comfort becomes a factor.

Step 2: Choose the belt thickness 

Belt thickness isn't just a number on a spec sheet; it's the difference between walking away from a max deadlift attempt feeling bulletproof or getting stapled under a squat because your belt folded when you needed it most.

Thickness is measured in millimetres, and those few extra millimetres translate to differences in rigidity, support, and how the belt handles under extreme loads. Here's what each thickness means for your training:

I. 7mm belts 

These belts are (very) thin and are flexible. This makes them ideal for CrossFit athletes, Olympic weightlifters, or lifters with shorter torsos. 

ii. 10mm belts 

A 10mm belt offers excellent support while being more comfortable and easier to break in. It's suitable for most lifters and offers versatility for both heavy training and lighter accessory work.

iii. 13mm belts

A 13mm belt provides maximum rigidity and is preferred by elite powerlifters and heavier lifters who need solid support. However, it requires a break-in period and may be uncomfortable for some lifters.

Overall: 

• Choose 7mm if: You prioritise dynamic movements, compete in Olympic lifting or CrossFit, or have anthropometric issues with thicker belts.
• Go with 10mm if: You want maximum versatility, train frequently, or do a mix of heavy compounds and accessory work. This covers about 80% of lifters.
• Choose 13mm if: You're an elite powerlifter, weigh over 230 pounds, or only use your belt for competition-level attempts where maximum support trumps comfort. 

At Gunsmith Fitness, we make high-quality 7mm - 13mm belts. Each belt is hand-finished, built to IPF specs (where needed), and tailored to your lifting style. Customise yours here. 

Step 3. Select Buckle Type  

As I mentioned earlier, different buckle types serve different needs, and choosing the right one can make or break your lifting experience. Let’s go over them again: 

i. Single Prong Buckles

Single-prong buckles are the most common choice, offering a great balance of security and convenience. They're easier to adjust than double-prong options and still provide a reliable hold under heavy loads.

Best for: Most lifters who want simplicity without sacrificing security. Great for training sessions where you might need to adjust the belt between exercises or as your core pump changes throughout the workout.

ii. Double Prong Buckles

Double-prong buckles distribute pressure more evenly across the belt, providing maximum security. They're the gold standard for powerlifting competitions and heavy training sessions where you absolutely cannot afford belt failure.

Best for: Competitive lifters and those who prefer set-it-and-forget-it security. If you belt up once and stay locked in for multiple heavy sets, double prong is your friend.

iii. Lever Buckles

Lever buckles offer the fastest on/off experience once they're properly adjusted. Flip the lever and you're locked in tight. However, adjusting the tightness requires tools and time, making them less versatile for different training phases.

Best for: Lifters who maintain consistent body composition and train at similar intensities. Perfect for powerlifters who know their exact competition setup and want lightning-fast belt changes between attempts.

iv. Velcro Fasteners

Velcro belts are the most adjustable and quickest to put on and take off. They're popular in CrossFit and dynamic training environments where belt adjustments happen frequently during workouts.

Best for: CrossFit athletes, circuit training enthusiasts, or anyone who needs frequent belt adjustments during training sessions.  

Step 4. Customise the aesthetic  

Your belt should work hard, but it can look good while doing it, too. Here are some options we have at Gunsmith Fitness: 

i. Use Embroidery & Logo Printing to Add Gym Logos, Names, Flags, or IFBB Badges

Embroidery is the most durable way to add personalisation to a custom belt. Unlike printing or appliques, embroidered designs become part of the belt structure and won't peel, crack, or fade over time. The thread used in embroidery is typically the same heavy-duty material used for the belt's construction stitching.

See this embroidered design we customised for one of our customers:

 

Gym logos are also popular choices for team members or those who want to represent their training facility. Some of our customers who are IFBB pros take it a step further by adding their competition titles, federation badges, or country flags. It’s a subtle way to showcase achievements and affiliations without saying a word. 

See examples below: 

Personal names or nicknames can be embroidered in various fonts and sizes. Some lifters opt for subtle name placement on the inside of the belt, while others prefer bold lettering on the outside. The choice depends on your personal style and how prominent you want the personalisation to be!

ii. Pick your belt colour 

Black remains the most popular choice for custom belts because it's professional, versatile, and doesn't show wear as readily as lighter colours.

 

However, custom options allow you to explore other colours that better reflect your personality or team affiliation.

Some popular options are: 

• Red 
• Camo patterns  
• USA-themed designs (red, white, and blue combinations) are standard among American lifters.
• Japanese-inspired designs  

iii. Engrave Inside Label Messages

The inside of a custom belt offers space for personal messages that only you'll see. Some lifters have motivational quotes engraved, while others include dates of achievements or personal milestones. This private personalisation can be incredibly meaningful and serve as a source of motivation during tough training sessions.

Technical specifications are sometimes engraved on the inside label, including the belt's thickness, the date it was made, and the customer's measurements. This information can be valuable for warranty purposes or if you decide to order additional belts in the future.

IV. Add Motivational Quotes or Names

External engraving is more visible and serves as a public statement of your philosophy or identity as a lifter. Popular choices include short, powerful phrases like "No Limits" or "Strength Through Adversity," as well as personal mantras that hold special meaning.

You can also use your name, nickname, or lifting alias to make the belt unmistakably yours. Some lifters include their initials, training milestones (such as a 500-pound deadlift), or even tribute names in honour of a coach, a loved one, or a teammate. 

Here’s another inspiration from one of our customers: 

 

iv. Add Reinforced Stitching for Longevity 

Stitching isn’t just a cosmetic detail; it’s a key factor in your belt’s lifespan. Double-stitching involves two parallel rows of stitches, which provides redundancy and increases durability. If one row ever begins to wear or fray, the second line of stitching holds the structure together, keeping your belt functional and secure under load. 

Also, high-quality custom belts use heavy-duty threads, such as polyester or nylon, that don’t stretch or degrade quickly, unlike cotton thread. Both options are designed to withstand the stress of heavy lifting. 

You can choose to match the thread to the leather for a subtle, professional look, or use contrasting thread colours to make the stitching a design element.

Some of our lifters choose thread colours that match their team or gym colours. Others opt for high-contrast combinations that make the belt stand out. Overall, select the option that’s best for you.  

Overall, the key is to choose something that will continue to motivate you years down the road, not just what sounds good today.

Step 5. Measure your size  

Wrong sizing is one of the most common mistakes people make when ordering custom belts. Your pant size is not your belt size. Pants are designed to sit at different points on your waist depending on the style, and they often include ease (extra room) for comfort and movement.

A weightlifting belt should be positioned at the optimal point on your torso for optimal bracing and support. This is usually at or just above your natural waist, where you can create the most intra-abdominal pressure. This is 2-4 inches different from where your pants sit.

To get the correct measurement for your custom belt, follow these steps: 

• Wear a shirt similar to what you typically train in, not a bulky hoodie, but not skin-tight either. This helps replicate real training conditions.
• Stand in a relaxed, upright position. Your natural waist is usually the narrowest part of your torso, just above the hip bones. This is the optimal spot for most lifters to generate bracing pressure.
• Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around your torso at your natural waist. The tape should feel snug but not tight; you should be able to slide one finger comfortably between the tape and your body.
• Avoid sucking in your stomach or pushing it out. Maintain a normal posture as you would while standing between sets.
• Measure at the end of a natural exhale. This ensures the belt won't feel too tight or loose during actual lifts when you're bracing.

Lifters with longer torsos might prefer to wear their belt slightly higher or lower than the natural waist, depending on their individual anatomy and lifting style. Some find that wearing the belt at the bottom of the ribcage provides better support for squats, while others prefer it lower for deadlifts.

Shorter-torso lifters need to be more precise with belt placement since they have less room to work with. A custom belt can be made with this in mind, featuring a slight taper or specific width that works better with a compact torso.

If you carry weight in your midsection, consider how your waist size might change throughout your training cycle. Many lifters find that their waist measurement varies by 1-2 inches depending on their current body composition and training phase.

Take multiple measurements over a few days to ensure consistency. Your waist measurement can vary slightly due to factors such as hydration, recent meals, and the time of day. The most accurate measurement is typically taken first thing in the morning before eating, but after you've been awake and moving for a few minutes.

Step 6. Finalise and submit your design

You've made all the tough decisions; now it's time to pull everything together and get your custom belt into production. This final step is where attention to detail separates a belt that exceeds your expectations from one that leaves you wishing you'd been more thorough.

Before you hit submit, review each element of your design one more time. Verify your size measurement, confirm your material choice, and make sure your buckle type aligns with your training style. Check that any custom text or logos are spelt correctly. There's nothing more frustrating than receiving a beautifully crafted belt with your gym's name misspelt.

Also, review the mockup or proof carefully. Most reputable custom belt makers will provide a digital mockup or proof of your design before production begins. This is your last chance to catch any issues or make changes. Pay special attention to text placement, logo sizing, and overall proportions. What looks good on a computer screen may appear differently on the actual belt.

Lastly, save your design specifications. Keep a record of all your choices, including size, material, buckle type, colours, and any custom elements. If you need repairs, want to order a matching belt, or decide to make slight modifications in the future, having these details on hand will save you time and ensure consistency.

Step 7. Break it in

Your custom belt will arrive stiff and rigid; this is a normal characteristic of high-quality leather construction. Factor in 2-3 weeks of training to properly break in your new belt before any important lifts or competitions. The break-in process is crucial for both comfort and optimal performance.

How to Choose a Custom Belt Builder

1. Proven Experience in the Lifting Community

Look for builders with actual lifting backgrounds—powerlifting, strongman, or Olympic lifting experience. They should understand the difference between a fashion accessory and performance equipment. More importantly, check if their clients include competitive lifters and strength coaches, not just Instagram fitness influencers.

You’ll see this in the belt gallery, like this: 

2. Specific Material Quality Standards

They must specify leather grade (demand full-grain), thickness consistency, and hardware quality. Avoid anyone using vague terms like "premium leather" without providing specific details. At Gunsmith Fitness, we use vegetable-tanned leather and solid brass or stainless steel hardware.

3. True Customisation Options

Beyond just stamping your name, they should offer multiple width options (standard, tapered, Olympic-style), thickness choices (7mm, 10mm, 13mm), and the ability to accommodate special sizing needs. Look for problem-solvers, not just order-takers.

4. Professional Communication and Process

Test their responsiveness with specific questions about materials and processes. They should have systematic ordering procedures, provide detailed confirmations, and offer regular production updates. Slow or vague responses during sales are a huge red flag! For instance, at Gunsmith, we have a detailed FAQ page that provides answers to common user questions. You can also reach us with your specific issues via email. We’ll respond immediately!  

5. Reasonable Lead Times with Quality Focus

Quality custom work takes 2-6 weeks. Be suspicious of extremely short promises (cutting corners) or excessively long timelines (poor planning). They should explain their production process and quality control procedures in detail. At Gunsmith, it takes 6 - 8 weeks to create a custom belt. 

6. Transparent Pricing Structure

Professional builders provide detailed pricing breakdowns that cover base costs, customisation fees, and shipping costs. Avoid hidden fees and demands for full payment upfront. Compare value, not just price. Remember, the cheapest option rarely delivers the best results!

 7. Strong Portfolio of Previous Work

Examine their photos for construction quality, such as consistent stitching, clean edge finishing, and proper hardware alignment. Look for diverse designs but consistent quality across all work, like this:  

8. Clear Policies and Problem Resolution

They must have written policies covering warranties, returns, sizing issues, and defect handling. Avoid verbal promises and handshake agreements. Quality builders stand behind their work with transparent resolution processes. At Gunsmith, for instance, we have a detailed and customer-friendly Refunds and Returns policy. This way, our customers can confidently purchase custom-made belts from us, knowing that if anything doesn’t fit right or arrives with a defect, we’ll make it right. 

9. Professional Workshop and Equipment

Serious custom makers have dedicated workshops with industrial equipment, not kitchen-table operations. Ask about their setup, including the professional sewing machines, cutting tools, and finishing equipment. All these are necessary for consistent quality.

10. Educational Content and Expertise

The best builders create helpful content, such as sizing guides, care instructions, and construction explanations. This demonstrates both expertise and a commitment to customer success, extending beyond mere sales. They should be able to educate you about proper belt selection and use.

Final Thoughts: Is a Custom Belt Worth It?

A custom weightlifting belt offers several advantages that can justify the additional cost for serious lifters. The perfect fit ensures optimal support and comfort, which in turn translates to improved performance and safety during heavy lifts. The ability to personalise the belt creates a connection between you and your gear that can be psychologically beneficial.

Quality custom belts also tend to last significantly longer than mass-produced alternatives. When you consider the cost over the lifetime of the belt, the price difference becomes much more reasonable.  

Ready to create your own belt? Click here to get started!