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Squat Day Gear: Lifting Shoes, Belts & Knee Sleeves

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Compare squat-day gear by the job it does: shoes and optional belts or knee sleeves for lifting, compact bands and a stretching strap for warm-up drills, and simple tools for comfortable floor work or self-massage. The notes distinguish products I us...
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
I've trained in Nike Metcons for years—you can spot them in my lifting videos. I keep coming back to the sturdy feel without giving up the flexibility I like, and I've even worn mine on scooter rides with my kids. These are worth comparing if you wan...
Nike Metcons
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
After trying this Element 26 belt across several workouts, it became my favorite lifting belt. I like the flexible feel and self-locking closure compared with a thick, rigid leather belt. It is worth a look if comfort and easy adjustment matter to yo...
Element 26 Self Locking
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Andrew Massey profile picture
I use a medium Harbinger belt from Walmart because the width fits comfortably between my hips and rib cage. I prefer its flexible feel to the heavier leather belts I've tried. It is worth comparing if you want a simple lifting belt and comfort matter...
Harbinger Belts
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Andrew Massey profile picture
I wear these Gymreapers knee sleeves for heavy squats and some leg-machine work. They help me feel more stable and confident, and I like the skull design. They are an optional addition for lifters who enjoy the feel of sleeves on leg day; they are no...
Weightlifting Knee Sleeves
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Andrew Massey profile picture
I use Nordic lifting straps on selected back-day exercises when I want to focus on the movement instead of having my grip end the set first. I don't use them for every set. They are a small addition to a gym bag for lifters doing rows and similar pul...
Nordic Lifting - Walmart.com
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Andrew Massey profile picture
I've used these VELOMIX shakers daily for three years, mixing pre-workout and creatine before training and protein afterward. I own about six and rotate them through the week. Mine have handled dishwasher washing without leaking, which is why I've ke...
VELOMIX Protein Shaker Bottles 2 Pack, 28 oz, Wire Whisk Mixers, Spill Proof ...
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
I switched from a sling-style gym bag to a North Face backpack because I was tired of adjusting the strap and digging around for my gear. I've used these bags for at least three years. The separate zippered spaces help me organize my lifting accessor...
Best Selling Backpacks & Daypacks
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Andrew Massey profile picture
A researched alternative to a hard lacrosse ball. The small, compressible EVA-foam design fits easily into a gym bag and lets you adjust pressure against a wall or floor. It earns a place here for portability and a wipe-clean surface, especially if a...
TriggerPoint MB1 Massage Ball — Compact Foam Self-Massage Tool
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
A compact researched option for controlled lateral steps, bridges and other band exercises. Three resistance levels make this more useful than a single heavy loop: choose a level that lets you keep the intended movement and range. The fabric-and-rubb...
All In Motion Fabric Hip Bands — Light, Medium & Heavy Set
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
A floor-mat option for stretching, core exercises, and other home workouts. The listed 72 by 32 inch size and 10 mm thickness are worth comparing with the space you have and the cushioning you prefer. A mat can make getting down on the floor more inv...
Large 10mm Non-Slip TPE Exercise Mat 72x32
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
A compact foam roller to consider if you want a simple self-massage tool without investing in a massage gun. The 13-inch length is useful when storage space is limited, and the firm surface lets you control pressure by adjusting how much weight you p...
Athletic Works High Density Foam Roller, 13" Length
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
I've found these bands helpful for assisted pull-ups. They are worth comparing if you want to practice the movement while adjusting how much help you get from a band. Choose the resistance that fits your current ability, check the anchoring instructi...
HPYGN Pull Up Assistance Bands, Heavy Duty
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
A researched everyday option with a straightforward screw cap and fewer parts to clean than a straw bottle. The narrow opening is useful for sipping between sets, and the 32-ounce capacity gives you a practical refillable bottle without buying a shak...
Nalgene 32-Ounce Narrow-Mouth Water Bottle — Simple Gym Hydration
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
The TYR L1 is the lifting shoe I currently wear. I like the grip, comfort, and design, and it has become part of my regular lifting setup. Consider it if you are comparing dedicated lifting shoes and want a more specific option for squat-focused trai...
TYR L1s (Lifting Shoe)
 
Andrew Massey profile picture
A researched pick for a simple stretching setup: the non-elastic nylon strap has multiple sewn loops, so you can change your grip without wrapping a band around your hands. The included exercise booklet is useful if you want clear starting instructio...
OPTP Original Stretch Out Strap — Multi-Loop Stretching Strap