What To Look For
Lifting hooks support your wrists and hands when exercising with heavy weights. Some are rubber-coated while others are covered in nylon material. Lifting hooks are available with a forward grip which lay in the cup of your hand or a forward hook that also can be used for the reverse grip. Hooks are available in steel and aluminum with wrist straps or "strap-n-wraps" made of cotton, nylon and Velcro.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall is misunderstanding the strength of the lifting hook. The hooks are a strength aid for lifting, and the given weight load is not what the hook will carry on its own. It is the combination of your strength and the hooks together. Each hook has a weight limit it can bear so your purchase should keep in mind.
Where To Buy
Some sporting goods stores will carry lifting hooks but a store that specializes in powerlifting or bodybuilding will have more options. There are numerous powerlifting sites such as ProWriststraps.com and PowerliftingWatch.com that offer lifting hooks in a range of sizes, as well as, low- and high-weight capacities.
Cost
The prices will vary due to the weight load and the manufacturer. For example, Haulin hooks for powerlifting has a weight load of 1,250 lbs. and sells for under $75. This is an average price range for the load. Shipping costs will depend on the actual site or store and how many items are in the purchase.
Comparison Shopping
Choose a lifting hook by determining your strength, lifting style and personal goals. Manufacturers have widened the wrist wrap that accompanies some hooks for a more secure fit. Materials such as cotton and rubber are incorporated with lifting hooks for less irritation to the skin and less slippage.
Accessories
Other accessories are straps and wraps for wrists, elbows and knees. Wraps come in degrees of thickness. Some straps offer thumb loops. Belts also are available for support and comfort while doing weightlifting exercises.
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