Best Equipment for Weighted Dips: Dip Belts, Elbow Sleeves & More
Weighted dips are one of the best ways to build serious upper body strength. But if you're serious about progress — whether you're training for streetlifting competitions or just chasing PRs — having the right equipment can make a huge difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best gear for weighted dips, why it matters, and how to choose what fits your goals.
Introduction: Why Equipment Matters
While bodyweight dips are incredibly effective, adding external load requires more than just brute strength — it demands stability, safety, and the right tools. Equipment isn’t about looking advanced; it’s about keeping your joints happy, your technique consistent, and your setup seamless. Whether you’re dipping with 5kg or 50kg, the right gear supports your performance and prevents distractions that could cost you reps — or worse, cause injury.
Dip Belts: The Weighted Dip Essential
No tool is more iconic, or essential, for weighted dips than the dip belt. It wraps around your waist and lets you attach weight plates or kettlebells for added resistance. The way a belt fits, balances, and holds weight affects everything from your comfort to your form.
Nylon dip belts are lightweight and flexible, ideal for quick setups and comfort. Then there’s the choice between a chain or a rope. If you’re serious about dipping high weights, opt for a long rope. These are safer and more dependable than a chain.
If you’re training seriously, especially for streetlifting, a high-quality belt with dependable stitching, 3 carabiners, and loading capacity is non-negotiable. It’s not just a tool; it becomes part of your lift.
Elbow Sleeves: Support for Heavy Sets
When the weights go up, elbow sleeves come into play. They provide warmth and compression that can help stabilize your joints and reduce discomfort. This becomes especially useful during cold sessions or long training blocks where pressing volume is high.
They won’t magically fix bad technique, but they can help you lift more confidently. For some, it’s a mental boost; for others, it’s physical relief. Choose sleeves that fit snugly without cutting off circulation, and match the thickness to your lifting intensity. Heavier loads might call for a firmer, 7mm neoprene sleeve. For everyday use, 5mm is usually enough.
Footwear and Grip
You probably don’t think much about what’s on your feet when doing dips — but you should. The wrong shoes can throw off your balance, especially when you’re carrying extra weight.
Flat-soled shoes (like our grips shoes, or other brands like Converse, Vans, or barefoot shoes) help keep your center of gravity predictable. Thick, cushioned running shoes? Those can shift your posture and add instability.
Your hands matter, too. Sweaty palms and thin bars aren’t a great combo. Liquid chalk helps maintain grip without the mess of powder, while wrist wraps (for those doing high-rep or long sets) can offer extra joint confidence. They’re not mandatory, but they do help when fatigue sets in.
5. Weight Plates or Kettlebells?
The type of weight you attach to your belt affects how dips feel. Plates are the standard: they’re easy to stack, stable, and accessible in most gyms. Kettlebells, though, swing more, which increases the difficulty and forces your core to work harder.
If you want to turn your dip into a full-body tension challenge, kettlebells do the job. For stability and PR attempts, plates are usually best.
Chains offer a different experience altogether. As they move, they create fluctuating resistance and visual intensity, great for those who love chaos under control.
6. Setup Tips for Smooth Training
Your gear only helps if you use it well. Prep your dip belt before you step up to the bars. Make sure the weight hangs centrally beneath you, uneven loading pulls your body out of alignment. Use a low box or platform to mount safely without straining your back or shoulders.
When you're dipping, the belt and weight should stay stable. If it swings too much or feels awkward, check your setup. A tight belt, even weight distribution, and secure carabiners go a long way in making your set feel natural.
