When it comes to powerlifting, having the right equipment isn’t just about comfort—it’s about maximizing performance, staying safe, and pushing your limits. Whether you’re training for your first competition or just looking to lift heavier in the gym, investing in high-quality powerlifting gear can make all the difference.
Below are my top recommended pieces of equipment, personally chosen for strength, durability, and competition readiness. If you’re serious about powerlifting, this gear will help you lift more weight, protect your joints, and stay locked in under the bar.
1. SBD 13mm Lever Belt – Maximum Core Support
Why You Need It: A stiff, high-quality lever belt provides unmatched core stability and the SBD 13mm Lever Belt is the best of the best. This belt will help you maintain a strong brace under heavy squats and deadlifts, avoiding injury while increasing strength output.
Key Features:
✔ 13mm thick premium leather – Stiff yet molds to your torso over time.
✔ Secure lever mechanism – Quick and easy to tighten/unlock between lifts.
✔ IPF-approved – Competition-legal for serious lifters.
“A quality powerlifting belt is an essential investment for protecting your lower back and generating more core pressure for heavy lifts.” Sam Schwarz
2. Inzer ErgoPro Knee Sleeves – Ultimate Knee Support
Why You Need It: Knee sleeves are the most important piece of equipment for prolonging knee health. The Inzer Ergopro sleeves help keep your knees stable, and protected during heavy squats, reducing strain on your joints and boosting confidence under the bar.
Key Features:
✔ Stiffer and thicker than standard knee sleeves – Provides better rebound out of the hole.
✔ Ergonomic fit – Designed to contour around the knee for superior comfort and support.
✔ IPF-approved – Competition-ready.
“If you’re serious about squatting heavy, a quality pair of knee sleeves is a must-have for long-term knee health and performance.” Sam Schwarz
3. Notorious Lift Slippers – The Best Footwear for Deadlifting
Why You Need It: Deadlifting in flat, grippy footwear gives you the best power transfer and stability, which is why slippers are a favorite among serious lifters.
Key Features:
✔ Ultra-thin sole – Keeps you low to the ground for maximum force and stability.
✔ Grippy bottom – Prevents slipping on the platform.
✔ Lightweight and flexible – Feels natural while maintaining foot stability.
💡 Unlike squishy running shoes, these slippers let you push through the floor with maximum efficiency on deadlifts and sumo pulls.
4. Gymreapers Wrist Straps
Important: Lets start by acknowledging wrist wraps are not allowed during competiton deadlifts. Nonetheless wrist straps help increase grip strength during heavy deadlifts, rows, and pulling movements, preventing grip fatigue from limiting your lifts. With wrist wraps you can get bigger and stronger if your grip is holding you back. Just remember to add grip strength training into your program.
Key Features:
✔ Durable cotton material – Provides long-lasting support.
✔ Padded neoprene wrist support – Reduces pressure on the wrists.
✔ Adjustable loop design – Fits securely for heavy pulling exercises.
“If your grip is the limiting factor on your deadlifts, these straps will let you break through and lift heavier without worrying about losing hold of the bar.” Sam Schwarz
5. SBD Singlet
Why You Need It: If you plan on stepping onto the platform, a high-quality singlet is a must. The SBD singlet is one of the most popular choices for competitive powerlifters because it’s comfortable, durable, and IPF-approved.
✔ Thick yet breathable fabric – Provides compression without overheating.
✔ Reinforced seams – Built to last through meet prep and multiple comps.
✔ Streamlined cut – Designed specifically for strength athletes.
“Even if you’re not competing yet, training in your singlet occasionally is great practice for meet day comfort and confidence.” Sam Schwarz
6. a7 bar grip t-shirt/hoodie
Why You Need It: When squatting or benching, bar slippage on your back or shoulders can kill your positioning and confidence. The A7 Bar Grip shirt solves this by adding a grippy silicone design across the upper back, helping you stay tight under heavy loads without relying on chalk.
Key Features:
✔ Bar Grip technology – Silicone print keeps the bar in place.
✔ Competition cut – Snug fit through the chest and arms for support.
✔ Meets USAPL/IPF rules – Legal for training and meets.
“This shirt is a favorite among lifters who low-bar squat or bench with a big arch, it keeps everything locked in without slipping around.” Sam Schwarz
final thoughts
Choosing the right gear isn’t about looking cool in the gym—it’s about training smarter, staying safe, and unlocking your full strength potential. Every piece of equipment on this list has been tested, trusted, and hand-picked based on what actually works in the gym and on the platform. The gear we recommend will grow with you lasting the test of time, whether you’re just getting started or chasing elite totals, investing in reliable, competition-ready gear can give you the edge you need to train with confidence.
IronDriven Powerlifting
Get in touch
We’re here to answer your questions and listen to your suggestions.