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Home » Equipment » IPF & USAPL Approved List of Equipment & Gear (Updated for 2021)

IPF & USAPL Approved List of Equipment & Gear (Updated for 2021)

Last updated February 5, 2021

As an affiliate of various sites, including Amazon Associates, I may earn a commission on qualifying purchases via links in this post at no extra cost to you. See Full Disclosure

IPF and USAPL approved list of gear, updated for 2021.

I am not affiliated with the IPF or USAPL in any way. This page is based on my best understanding of their published equipment rules.

ipf approved gear

Understanding what equipment is approved for use is an essential part of any powerlifting competition. If a piece of gear is not approved for use in a given powerlifting federation, an athlete will not be permitted to use it on the platform.

This guide covers all approved powerlifting gear for the IPF and USAPL.

Related: USPA Approved Equipment for 2021

Contents

  • 1 Summary of Recommended Equipment
    • 1.1 Best IPF Approved Equipment – Starter Pack
    • 1.2 Best IPF Approved Equipment – Upgrades
  • 2 IPF vs USAPL Equipment Rules
  • 3 Pro Tip About LiftingLarge.com
  • 4 Approved List of Powerlifting Gear for IPF and USAPL Competition (Classic/Raw)
    • 4.1 IPF & USAPL Approved Belts
    • 4.2 IPF & USAPL Approved Wrist Wraps
    • 4.3 IPF & USAPL Approved Shoes and Socks
    • 4.4 IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Sleeves
    • 4.5 IPF & USAPL Approved Singlets
    • 4.6 IPF & USAPL Approved Barbells
  • 5 Approved List of Powerlifting Gear for IPF and USAPL Competition (Equipped)
    • 5.1 IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Wraps
    • 5.2 IPF & USAPL Approved Squat Suits
    • 5.3 IPF & USAPL Approved Bench Shirts
    • 5.4 IPF & USAPL Approved Erector Shirts
    • 5.5 IPF & USAPL Approved Deadlift Suits
  • 6 June 2020 Update: Metal Sports Brand Banned
  • 7 IPF & USAPL Approved Logos
  • 8 Frequently Asked Questions about IPF & USAPL Approved Equipment
    • 8.1 Is there a difference between IPF approved and USAPL approved equipment?
    • 8.2 What are the best IPF & USAPL approved belts?
    • 8.3 What are the best IPF & USAPL approved knee sleeves?
    • 8.4 What are the best IPF & USAPL approved wrist wraps?
    • 8.5 Related Posts

Summary of Recommended Equipment

Here you’ll find the recommended IPF approved equipment for powerlifting. This excludes multi-ply lifting gear, which is listed below in the equipped gear section.

Best IPF Approved Equipment – Starter Pack

This is excellent gear that will serve anyone well in competition and help you save a few dollars. This is not a budget pack – this gear is high quality and will last you for years, it just isn’t the most expensive gear either. You could successfully use this gear at the highest levels of competition.

Recommended Belt
10 mm Single Prong Belt - Strength Shop USA
10 mm Single Prong Belt - Strength Shop USA

Also available in 13 mm, the single prong belt is a classic staple of any lifter's tool kit. 10 mm tends to break in a bit quicker than 13 mm and is a great choice for most lifters.

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Recommended Knee Sleeves
7 mm Inferno Knee Sleeves -  Strength Shop USA
7 mm Inferno Knee Sleeves - Strength Shop USA

Strength Shop strikes the perfect balance between quality and price with their Inferno knee sleeves. Much less expensive than SBD sleeves. 7 mm thick, 30 cm long - the maximum allowed by the IPF and USPA.

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Recommended Singlet
Inzer Powerlifting Singlet
Inzer Powerlifting Singlet

A no-frills singlet from the legendary Inzer. This is about as cheap as they come - and why pay extra for a singlet?

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Recommended Wrist Wraps
THP Powerlifting Wrist Wraps - Titan Support Systems
THP Powerlifting Wrist Wraps - Titan Support Systems

These are the 2nd stiffest wrist wraps from Titan (the stiffest are the "Signature Series Gold" wrist wraps). Titan is the standard for wrist wraps. Nuff said.

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Best IPF Approved Equipment – Upgrades

While all of the gear in the above section will serve you well for many years, if you’re willing to pay extra for arguable improvements in quality and a bit of vanity then this is where I’d do it. No judgement here!

Top of the Line Knee Sleeves
STrong Knee Sleeves - Rogue Fitness
STrong Knee Sleeves - Rogue Fitness

Giving SBD a run for their money, STrong Knee Sleeves are super snug and built to last, giving you a nice pop out of the hole in the squat.

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Top of the Line Powerlifting Belt
Leather 13 mm - 4
Leather 13 mm - 4" Lever Belt | Rogue Fitness

Rogue's 13 mm black leather belt is as durable as it is beautiful. Available with a lever or a single prong, it provides excellent support to the core when you need it most.

Check Price Single Prong Version
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IPF vs USAPL Equipment Rules

The USAPL mirrors the IPF with regards to approved equipment: only equipment permitted by the IPF may be used in a sanctioned USAPL powerlifting meet.

IPF approved = USAPL approved

usapl approved gear

Equipment is often disallowed for two main reasons:

  1. The equipment does not follow the specifications laid out in the equipment rules for a federation. An example would be knee sleeves that exceed maximum thickness or wrist wraps that exceed maximum length.
  2. The equipment is not from an approved manufacturer.

So even if a piece of equipment honors the specifications of a federation’s equipment rules, it can still not be permitted for use in competition if it is not manufactured by an IPF approved brand.

Pro Tip About LiftingLarge.com

Lifting Large is a great brand that carries a ton of lifting gear that is difficult to find elsewhere. Their Ebay Store offers free shipping on more items than their website, which typically has a $60 minimum for free shipping. Many items under $60 still get free shipping on their Ebay store!

Approved List of Powerlifting Gear for IPF and USAPL Competition (Classic/Raw)

This list of IPF and USAPL approved powerlifting equipment is valid from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2022. This list applies to both men and women, all divisions and weight classes.

I tried to provide international options where available, but let me know if I missed a particular international vendor. Prices were last updated May 9, 2020 and may have changed since then. As such, pricing accuracy is not guaranteed.

IPF & USAPL Approved Belts

The following belts are approved by the IPF and USAPL and can be used in equipped and classic (i.e. “raw classic”) competition, including with knee wraps.

Single Prong or Double Prong?

If you’re unsure whether to get a single or double prong belt, get a single prong belt. They’re just as secure as a double prong and easier to get on and off since you only need to hook into one hole instead of two.

Recommended Belts:

Lifting Large and Strength Shop: Best Bang for Your Buck

The cheapest IPF approved belts are the Lifting Large 10mm Single Prong Belt (available on Amazon and Lifting Large’s Ebay store) and the Strength Shop 13mm Single Prong Belt, both usually available for about $50.

Strength Shop 13mm Single Prong Belt IPF and USAPL Approved
Strength Shop 13mm Single Prong Belt (Click to visit Strength Shop USA)
Lifting Large 10mm Single Prong Belt IPF Approved
Lifting Large 10mm Single Prong Belt (Click to visit Lifting Large Ebay Store)

These are solid belts from respected companies. I own a Lifting Large 13mm Single Prong and am very happy with it.

Inzer and Rogue: Excellent Belts at Reasonable Prices

For those willing to spend a little more, the Inzer Forever Belts are excellent. 10mm is around $100 and 13mm is around $110, available with either a lever or a pronged buckle.

Inzer Forever 10mm Lever Belt IPF Approved
Inzer Forever 10mm Lever Belt (Click to visit Amazon.com)

On the upper end of the spectrum, Rogue makes terrific belts. I used to own their (unapproved) Ohio Lifting Belt before selling it to a gym buddy. The Rogue 13mm Powerlifting Belt (single prong) and 13mm Lever Belt are highly regarded and IPF/USAPL approved.

Rogue 13mm Single Prong Powerlifting Belt IPF Approved
Rogue 13mm Single Prong Powerlifting Belt (Click to visit Rogue Fitness)

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Belts:

  • Inzer
    • Inzer Belt with Prongs 10mm
      • $99.95 from Amazon
    • Inzer Belt with Prongs 13mm
      • $109.95 from Amazon
    • Inzer Lever Belt 10mm
      • $99.95 from Amazon
    • Inzer Lever Belt 13mm
      • $109.95 from Amazon
    • Inzer PR Belt (Power Raget)
      • $145 from Inzer
    • Inzer IAD Belt
  • Lifting Large
    • Lever Belts
      • Lifting Large Lever Belt 10mm (Economy)
        •  Available from Amazon
        • $59.00 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
      • Lifting Large Lever Belt 13mm (Competition)
        • Available from Amazon
      • Lifting Large Lever Belt 13mm (Polished Leather)
        • Available from Amazon
        • $79.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
    • Pronged Belts
      • Single Prong
        • Lifting Large Single Prong Belts 10mm (Economy)
          • Available from Amazon
          • $52.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
        • Lifting Large Single Prong Belts 13mm (Competition) < – This is what I use. Definitely recommend this or the 10mm version above.
          • Available from Amazon
          • $69.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
        • Lifting Large Single Prong Belts 13mm (Polished Leather)
          • $69.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
      • Double Prong
        • Lifting Large Double Prong Belts 10mm (Economy)
          • $48.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
        • Lifting Large Double Prong Belts 13mm (Competition)
          • $64.99 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
  • Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop Lever Belts 2″
    • Strength Shop Lever Belts 2.5″
    • Strength Shop Lever Belts 3″
      • 10mm available for $79.99 from Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop Lever Belts 4″
      • 10mm available for $79.99 from Strength Shop
        • Many colors available
      • 13mm available for $84.99 from Strength Shop
        • Many colors available
    • Strength Shop Single Prong Buckle Belts 3″
      • 10mm available for $49.99 from Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop Single Prong Buckle Belts 4″
      • 13mm available for $54.99 from Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop Double Prong Buckle Belts 4″
      • 10mm available for $49.99 from Strength Shop
      • 13mm available for $54.99 from Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop also has online stores for UK, CA, IE, DE, and CH athletes.
  • Rogue 
    • Rogue 3″ Lifting Belt
      • $94 from Rogue
    • Rogue 13mm Lever Belt
      • $145 from Rogue
    • Rogue 13mm Powerlifting Belt
      • $124 from Rogue
  • SBD
    • SBD Belts
      • US: $227.50 from sbd-usa.com
      • UK: £164.99 from sbdapparel.com
      • CAD: $218 from innerstrengthproducts.ca
  • Eleiko
    • Eleiko Powerlifting Belt
      • US: $279 from strengthwear.us
      • EU: €250 EUR from strengthwear.eu
  • A7
    • A7 Lever Belt 10mm/13mm
      • US: $169.95 from A7.co
      • UK: £159.99 GBP from a7uk.com
    • A7 Pioneer Cut Prong Belt 10mm/13mm
      • US: $169.95 from A7.co
      • UK: £159.99 GBP from A7uk.com
    • CA, NO, Asia, TW, JP, Oceania also available
  • Unbroken Designs
    • Rhino Power Belt 10mm (Single Prong)
      • $69.95 from Amazon
  • Lift.net (Stoic)
    • Stoic Single Prong Belt 10mm
      • $67.99 on Amazon
    • Stoic Lever Belt 13mm
      • $97.99 on Lift.net
  • Titan
    • Titan Lever Belts
      • $150.99 on Amazon
    • Titan Quick Release Belts
      • $113 on Amazon
    • Titan Belts (Single Prong)
      • $113 on Amazon
    • Titan Belts (Double Prong)
      • $84 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
  • Iron Tanks
    • Iron Tanks Lever Belt 10mm
      • Available from Amazon
    • Iron Tanks Lever Belt 13mm
      • Available from Amazon
    • Iron Tanks Single Prong Belt 10mm
    • Iron Tanks Single Prong Belt 13mm
      • $239.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
    • Additional IPF approved belts of various styles can be viewed at Iron Tanks
      • “Legacy” model is available on Amazon, while “Hellraiser” model appears to only be available on the Iron Tanks site.
  • ONI
    • Oni Lever Belt Action
      • 33,000JPY from bukiya.ocnk.net
    • Oni Quick Release Belt
      • $84.99 from Max Barbell
      • 9,800JPY from bukiya.ocnk.net
    • Oni Single Prong Belt
    • A few other IPF approved belts are also available from bukiya.ocnk.net
  • Super Training
    • Super Training Strong Belt 10mm/13mm
      • $130 from Slingshot/Mark Bell
    • Super Training Lever Belt
  • Wahlanders
    • Wahlanders Belts with Prongs
      • Quick release belt
        • $223 USD from Inner Strength Products CA
        • 1945,00kr from Wahlanders.se
        • 189,90 € from sportheavy.eu (ships Europe wide)
  • Beast Genetics
    • Beast Genetics Single Prong Belt
      • 10mm for $127.50 AUD from Beast Genetics
    • Beast Genetics Double Prong Belt
      • 10mm for $127.50 AUD from Beast Genetics
      • 10mm Quick Release
    • Beast Genetics Lever Belts
      • $139.95 AUD from Beast Genetics
    • Beast Genetics belts are also available online in the Philippines via Spruce Athletics and in Canada via Strong Arm Sport.

IPF & USAPL Approved Wrist Wraps

The following wrist wraps are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in competition.

Recommended Wrist Wraps:

Titan Signature Gold Wrist Wraps

Titan Signature Gold Wrist Wraps
Titan Signature Gold Wrist Wraps (Click to visit Amazon.com)

I personally use Titan Signature Gold Wrist Wraps (Amazon) and have been very happy with them. I got about 2 good years of training out of them before they lost enough stiffness that I bought a new pair. You can usually get them for around $34 for the 24in/60cm length, which is a pretty great value.

Titan THP and Titan Titanium Wrist Wraps

If you’d prefer something a little more flexible try the Titan THP Wrist Wraps or Titan Titanium Wrist Wraps, but also available on Amazon. If you’re not sure between the two, I’d go with the THP wrist wraps.

If you’d like more detail, Lifting Large wrote a great Titan Wrist Wrap Comparison Guide.

Super Training Gangsta Wraps

Another good “less stiff/more flex” option are the Super Training Gangsta Wraps, which can be “cranked” quite tightly around the wrist while feeling less stiff than the Titan Signature Gold wraps. They’re around $45 from Rogue.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Wrist Wraps:

  • Titan
    • Signature Gold Wrist Wraps
      • Available from Amazon
    • Titanium Wrist Wraps
      • Available from Amazon
    • Red Devil Wrist Wraps
      • $10.75+ from Titan
    • Wrist Wraps T.H.P. (with yellow stripes or lettering)
      • Available from Amazon
    • Titan Wrist Wrap Comparison by Lifting Large
  • Inzer
    • W30 Wrist Wraps (Red Line)
    • W40 Wrist Wraps (True Black)
      • $24.95 from Amazon
    • W50 Wrist Wraps (Gripper)
      • $29.95 from Amazon
    • W60 Wrist Wraps
    • W70 Wrist Wraps (Black Beauty)
      • $49.95 from Amazon
    • W80 Wrist Wraps (4x4)
    • Iron Wrist Wraps Z
      • $18.95 from Amazon
    • Atomic Wrist Wraps
      • $39.95 from Amazon
  • Strength Shop
    • Zeus Medium Wrist Wraps (“Stiff”)
      • $11.99 to $15.99 from Strength Shop USA
    • Thor Heavy Wrist Wraps (“Super Stiff”)
      • $12.99 to $16.99 from Strength Shop USA
  • Super Training / Sling Shot
    • STretchy Wrist Wraps (Level 1 Stiff)
      • $40.70 from Amazon Prime
    • Multi Purpose Wrist Wraps
    • Power Wrist Wraps (Level 2 Stiff)
      • $47.30 from Amazon Prime
    • Sling Shot Wrist Wraps (Level 2 Stiff)
      • $46.30 from Amazon Prime
    • Gangsta Wrist Wraps (Level 3 Stiff)
      • $45 from Rogue
      • Available from Amazon Prime
    • STrong Wrist Wraps (Level 4 Stiff)
      • $57.20 from Amazon Prime
  • SBD
    • SBD Wrist Wraps
    • SBD Wrist Wraps 2019
    • SBD Stiff Wrist Wraps 2019
    • Links to View All
      • SBD US ($42.50+)
      • Inner Strength CA ($53.00+ CAD)
      • SBD UK (£29.99+ GBP)
  • Eleiko Wrist Wraps
    • $27 via Strength Wear US
  • A7
    • A7 55 Flex Wrist Wraps (55mm to 99mm)
      • $35.95 from A7.co
    • A7 55 Medium Wrist Wraps (55mm to 99mm)
      • $35.95 from A7.co
    • A7 55 Stiff Wrist Wraps (55mm to 99mm)
      • $35.95 from A7.co
    • A7 gear is also available from CA, UK, NO, PO, TW, Oceania, JP
  • Lift.net (Stoic)
    • Stoic Wrist Wraps
      • $15.99 – $29.99 from Lift.net
  • Iron Tanks
    • Bolster Wrist Wraps (Heavy)
      • $34.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
      • $39.95 USD from Amazon
    • Ironclad Wrist Wraps (Super Heavy)
      • $39.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
      • $44.95 USD from Amazon
    • Brutal Wrist Wraps (2x Super Heavy)
      • $54.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
    • Juggernaut Wrist Wraps (3x Super Heavy)
      • $59.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
  • ONI
    • XX Wrist Wraps (Stiffest from ONI)
      • 5,300JPY from bukiya.ocnk.net
      • $49.99 from Max Barbell
    • Red, Emerald, Pink, and Blue Wrist Wraps
      • 4,300JPY from bukiya.ocnk.net
      • $34.99 from Max Barbell

IPF & USAPL Approved Shoes and Socks

Any shoes and socks are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in competition as long as they meet the technical rules. All manufacturers are permitted.

I personally use Under Armour knee high socks and Adipower weightlifting shoes.

I’ve used the same pair of Adipowers for 5 years without any issues and they offer me great support in the squat. I also love benching with the raised heel.

Shoe Technical Rules

  1. The “underside” of the shoe (i.e. the heel and sole) cannot exceed 5cm.
  2. The underside must be flat.
  3. Inner soles cannot be thicker than 1cm.
  4. Socks with a rubber outside sole lining are not permitted.
    1. This rules appears in the “shoe” section in the IPF rules, so I assume it means these types of socks cannot be worn inside shoes.

Sock Technical Rules

  1. Any color is allowed.
  2. Approved logos are allowed.
  3. Socks cannot touch knee sleeves or knee wraps.
  4. Socks must cover the shin when performing the deadlift.
    1. This is not necessary during the squat or bench press.

IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Sleeves

The following knee sleeves are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in competition.

Recommended Knee Sleeves

Best Value Knee Sleeves:

  • Strength Shop Knee Sleeves
  • Stoic Knee Sleeves

Strength Shop 7mm Inferno Knee Sleeves

If you want to spend a little less cash for IPF approved knee sleeves, a great value pick are the Strength Shop 7mm Inferno Knee Sleeves for about $50.

Strength Shop USA Inferno Knee Sleeves
Strength Shop 7mm Inferno Knee Sleeves (Click to visit Strength Shop USA)

Here’s a helpful review of the Strength Shop knee sleeves from The Bar Athletic Club.

Strengthshop Inferno knee sleeve REVIEW

Stoic 7mm Knee Sleeves

Stoic Knee Sleeves (around $65 on Amazon Prime). These were also created to compete directly with SBD and appear to be fairly close in terms of quality, fit, and durability.

Alan Thrall actually compares SBD knee sleeves, STrong sleeves, and Stoic knee sleeves below if you’d like more detail.

Stoic Knee Sleeves - Untamed Review

Overall Best Knee Sleeves

If cost is not a concern you should go with the SBD Knee Sleeves or the Super Training STrong Knee Sleeves.

The standard 7mm SBD Knee Sleeves are the most popular knee sleeve for a reason. They give a great pop out of the hole in the squat and are made to last. I’ve used SBD knee sleeves for several years and still love ’em.

The Super Training STrong Knee Sleeves are the new kids on the block and they’re giving SBD a run for their money.

STrong Sleeves were seemingly made to compete with SBD for the title of “best IPF approved knee sleeve” and they came out with an excellent product. You can see a more detailed comparison here (Review: SBD vs. STrong Knee Sleeves) but some reviews suggest the STrong Sleeves a little stiffer/more supportive than SBD. Plus, STrong Sleeves are on Amazon Prime, which can be an advantage to some. Ultimately, they’re both great knee sleeves.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Sleeves:

  • Lift.net (Stoic)
    • Stoic Knee Sleeves
      • Available on Amazon Prime
  • SBD
    • SBD Knee Sleeves 7mm
      • $82 USD from Starting Strongman (USA)
      • $106 CAD from Inner Strength CA
      • £59.99 from SBD UK
      • See all countries
    • SBD Dynamic Knee Sleeves 2019
    • SBD Knee Sleeves 2019
  • Strength Shop
    • Strength Shop Inferno Knee Sleeves
      • $49.95 from Strength Shop USA
  • Rehband
    • 2 Panel Design – Rehband Blue Line Knee Sleeves 7mm #7084
      • $80 per pair from Rogue
      • £66 GBP from Rehband UK
    • V-Shape Design – Rehband Original Knee Sleeves 7mm #7051
      • $75 to $85 per pair from Rogue
      • Available from Amazon Prime
      • £66 GBP from Rehband UK
    • 4 Panel Design – Rehband Knee Sleeves RX 7mm – All Sleeves starting #1054
    • 2 Panel Design with reinforced seams – Rehband RX Knee Sleeves MAX 7mm – All sleeves starting #1055
  • Titan
    • Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeves
      • $75 from Anderson Powerlifting
    • Titan Knee Sleeves
      • $60 from Titan
  • Eleiko
    • Eleiko Knee Sleeves 5mm
    • Eleiko Knee Sleeves 7mm
      • $69 from Eleiko
  • Rogue
    • Rogue 7mm Knee Sleeves
      • $62.50 from Rogue
  • A7
    • A7 Cone Knee Sleeves (Black, Americana)
      • $59.95 from A7.co
    • A7 gear is also available from CA, UK, NO, PO, TW, Oceania, JP
  • Unbroken Designs
    • See all knee sleeves from Unbroken Designs
      • Mens Knee Sleeves
      • Womens Knee Sleeves
    • IPF Approved Designs
      • Dia de los Muertos Knee Sleeves
      • Stars and Stripes Knee Sleeves
      • Night Swim Knee Sleeves
      • Swirls for Girls Knee Sleeves
      • Block Party Knee Sleeves
      • Lioness Squared Knee Sleeves
      • Purple Ombre Knee Sleeves
      • Sea Lilies Knee Sleeves
      • Paradise Pink Knee Sleeves
      • White Snake Knee Sleeves
      • Silver Tron Knee Sleeves
      • Tropical Explosion Knee Sleeves
      • Ahoy Knee Sleeves
      • Paradise City Knee Sleeves
      • 2018 Apalooza Tie Dye Knee Sleeves
      • 2018 Apalooza Flag Knee Sleeves
      • Lioness Knee Sleeves
  • Inzer
    • Inzer Knee Sleeves
    • IAD Knee Sleeves
  • Iron Tanks
    • Iron Tanks Iron Knee Sleeves 7mm (all models)
      • $94.95 AUD from Iron Tanks
  • Oni Ltd. (Bukiya)
    • Oni Knee Sleeves
    • Oni Knee Sleeves XX
      • $59.99 from MaxBarbell.com
      • £39.99 from Repel Bullies
      • 7,000JPY from bukiya.ocnk.net
  • Super Training
    • Strong Knee Sleeves
      • $80 from Rogue
      • Available from Amazon Prime
    • Slingshot Knee Sleeves 2.0
      • $65 from Rogue
      • Available from Amazon Prime
    • Extreme “X” Knee Sleeves
      • $95.70 from Amazon Prime
    • Sport Knee Sleeves
      • $57 from Super Training
    • Sometimes Super Training equipment is discounted at Lifting Large

IPF & USAPL Approved Singlets

These singlets are all approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in competition.

Recommended Singlets:

The cheapest IPF and USAPL approved singlets that will get the job done are from Inzer (Amazon) and Lifting Large (Lifting Large Ebay Store), both around $40.

In my opinion, a singlet shouldn’t be made any more complicated than it needs to be and either of the above should get the job done.

Full List:

  • Lifting Large
    • Basic Singlet ($39.99 on Lifting Large Ebay Store)
    • Economy Singlet
  • Inzer Singlets
    • Available on Amazon
  • Titan Singlets 
    • $70 on Lifting Large Ebay Store
  • Strength Shop Singlets
    • $59.95 on StrengthShopUSA.com
  • SBD Singlets 
    • US: $83 on sbd-usa.com
  • ELEIKO Singlets 
    • EU: €90,00 EUR on strengthwear.eu
  • Unbroken Designs
    • Stars & Stripes Singlet (Available on Amazon)
    • Leopard and Lace Singlet (Available on Amazon)
  • Stoic Singlets (Lift.net)
    • $65 on Lift.net
  • ONI Singlets
    • $59.99 on MaxBarbell.com
  • SuperTraining
    • Black Singlet
    • Signature Singlet
    • Performance Singlet
    • Classic Singlet
      • $60 to $75 on MarkBellSlingShot.com
  • Beast Genetics Singlets
    • $79.95 AUD on BeastGenetics.com
    • $89 CAD on StrongArmSport.com

IPF & USAPL Approved Barbells

Barbells from the following manufacturers are approved for use in IPF and USAPL competition.

Rogue Ohio Power Barbell IPF Approved
Rogue Ohio Power Bar (Click to visit Rogue Fitness)
  • Rogue Fitness (USA)
    • Ohio Power Bar (Black Zinc), $325 USD
    • Ohio Power Bar (Stainless Steel), $425 USD
  • Eleiko
    • Eleiko Powerlifting Bar, $1,071 USD
  • Leoko
    • Leoko Powerlifting Bar, 699,90 €
  • Uesaka
    • Uesaka Powerlifting Bar, $988
  • Titex
    • Titex Competition Bar, $399
  • Pallini
    • Pallini Powerlifting Bar (Price Unknown)

Rogue also makes a fantastic deadlift bar, but it is not IPF approved.

Approved List of Powerlifting Gear for IPF and USAPL Competition (Equipped)

IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Wraps

The following knee wraps are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in equipped powerlifting competition.

NOTE: IPF rules require that knee wraps must not exceed 2 meters in length. Any knee wrap that exceeds 2 meters in length is not permitted for use in IPF/USAPL competition.

Recommended Knee Wraps:

There is much more personal preference with knee wraps than knee sleeves, as there is more variation in stiffness and overall feel with knee wraps. Still, there are some generally popular knee sleeves that many lifters see benefit from.

Titan THP Knee Wraps (stiff) and Titan Signature Gold Knee Wraps (very stiff) are widely considered to be high quality wraps from a respected brand.

For a less stiff option to “ease” into using knee wraps, Inzer Z Knee Wraps are a good choice.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Knee Wraps:

  • SBD
    • SBD Knee Wraps
      • $55 from SBD USA
      • £39.99 from SBD UK
      • $70.00 CAD from Inner Strength CA
      • See all countries
    • SBD Knee Wraps Competition 2019
    • SBD Knee Wraps Training 2019
  • Eleiko
    • Eleiko Knee Wraps
      • $34 from Strength Wear US
  • Titan
    • Signature Gold Knee Wraps
      • $56 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • Available on Amazon
    • THP Knee Wraps
      • $36 to $47 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • Available on Amazon
    • Max RPM Knee Wraps
      • $43.50 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • Available on Amazon
    • Titanium Knee Wraps
      • $43.50 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • Available on Amazon
    • Red Devil Knee Wraps
  • Inzer
    • Iron Knee Wraps Z
      • $25.82 on Amazon
    • W30 Knee Wraps (Red Line)
    • W40 Knee Wraps (True Black)
      • $32 to $46 on Amazon
    • W50 Knee Wraps (Gripper)
      • $49.95 on Amazon
    • W60 Knee Wraps
    • W70 Knee Wraps (Black Beauty)
      • $92.95 on Amazon
    • W80 Knee Wraps (4x4)
    • Atomic Knee Wraps
      • $50 to $74 on Amazon
  • Super Training
    • Sling Shot Knee Wraps (Level 3 Stiff)
      • Available on Amazon Prime
    • World Record Knee Wraps (Level 4 Stiff)
      • $45 on Lifting Large
    • Strong Knee Wraps (Level 4 Stiff)
      • $52 on Super Training
    • Gangsta Knee Wraps (Level 4+ Stiff)
      • $47 on Super Training

IPF & USAPL Approved Squat Suits

The following squat suits are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in equipped competition.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Squat Suits:

  • Titan
    • Titan Squat Suit
    • Titan Centurion Suit (Regular Stance)
      • $187 from Anderson Powerlifting
    • Titan Centurion Suit (Wide Stance)
      • $187 from Anderson Powerlifting
    • Titan Super Centurion Suit (Regular Stance)
      • $220 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • $220 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
      • Available from Amazon
    • Titan Super Centurion Suit (Wide Stance)
      • $220 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • $220 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
      • Available from Amazon
    • Titan Spartan Suit
      • $110 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • $110 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
    • Titan Superior Suit
      • $86 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
  • Inzer
    • Z-Suit
      • $42 from Inzer
    • Hard Core Suit
      • $145 from Inzer
    • TRX Squat Suit
      • $159 from Inzer
    • Megathrust Squat Suit

IPF & USAPL Approved Bench Shirts

The following bench shirts are approved by the IPF and USAPL for use in equipped competition.

Note: Only single ply bench shirts can be worn in IPF/USAPL competitions.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Bench Shirts:

  • Titan
    • Each shirt has a sizing guide on its product page on Lifting Large’s Ebay store.
    • Titan Fury Bench Shirt
      • $126 from Anderson Powerlifting
      • $125 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
    • Titan Fury NXG+ SHP Bench Shirt
    • Titan F6 Tornado Bench Shirt
      • $126 from Lifting Large Ebay Store
    • Titan Katana Bench Shirt A/S
      • A/S version, $181 on Anderson Powerlifting
      • S/S version, $181 on Anderson Powerlifting
    • Titan Super Katana Bench Shirt
      • A/S version, $210 from Lifting Large Ebay Store or Anderson Powerlifting
      • S/S version, $210 from Lifting Large Ebay Store or Anderson Powerlifting
    • Titan Super Katana Low Cut Bench Shirt
      • A/S version, $258 from Lifting Large Ebay Store or Anderson Powerlifting
      • S/S version, $258 from Lifting Large Ebay Store or Anderson Powerlifting
        • Sometimes on sale for $208 from Anderson Powerlifting!
    • Titan Vortex Shirt
    • Note: “A/S” means angled sleeve and “S/S” means straight sleeve for bench shirts.
  •  Inzer
    • Inzer Bench Press Shirt Sizing Guide
    • Heavy Duty Blast Shirt
      • $100 from Inzer
    • High Performance Heavy Duty Blast Shirt
      • $77 from Inzer
    • Extra High Performance Heavy Duty Blast Shirt (EHPHD)
      • $100 from Inzer
    • Blast Shirt
      • $44 from Inzer
    • The Wrath Bench Shirt
    • The Rage Bench Shirt
      • $95 from Inzer
    • The Rage X Bench Shirt
      • $165 from Inzer
    • XB Bench Shirt
    • Phenom Bench Shirt
      • $145 from Inzer
    • Bolt Bench Shirt
    • CB Bench Shirt

IPF & USAPL Approved Erector Shirts

The following erector shirts can be worn in IPF and USAPL competition.

  • Inzer
    • Erector Shirt
      • $44 from Inzer
    • Heavy Duty Erector Shirt
      • $55 from Inzer

IPF & USAPL Approved Deadlift Suits

The following deadlift suits can be worn in IPF and USAPL competition.

Full List of IPF & USAPL Approved Deadlift Suits:

  • Titan
    • Titan Velocity Deadlift Suit
      • Conventional Stance, $188 from Anderson Powerlifting or Lifting Large Ebay Store
      • Sumo Stance, $188 from Anderson Powerlifting or Lifting Large Ebay Store
  •  Inzer
    • MAX DL Deadlift Suit
      • $145 from Inzer
    • Fusion Deadlift Suit
      • $159 from Inzer
    • XDL Deadlift Suit

June 2020 Update: Metal Sports Brand Banned

On June 6, 2020, USAPL announced that all Metal Sports brand equipment is banned from competition. This is because of racist remarks made by the owner of Metal Sports. As such, all links to Metal have been removed from this page.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Metal Equipment Banned From USA Powerlifting

IPF & USAPL Approved Logos

Only these logos can be displayed on equipment worn in IPF and USAPL powerlifting competitions.

The logo of any approved manufacturer is permitted for display in competition. In addition to those logos, the following are also permitted:

  • MAXREP
  • German Powerlifting Distr.
  • Kappi
  • Progressive Rehab
  • RTS
  • Athletic Alliance Sport
  • Barbell Medicine
  • Quest Nutrition
  • LVD Fitness
  • LFT Performance Nutrition and Apparel, Inc.
  • CardiraMD
  • TOR Equipment
  • APLYFT
  • Dedicated Sports
  • Prevail Lifestyle
  • IntelligentStrength

Please let me know if any corrections should be made. Thanks!

Frequently Asked Questions about IPF & USAPL Approved Equipment

Is there a difference between IPF approved and USAPL approved equipment?

No. The USAPL uses the same approved equipment as the IPF. If a piece of equipment is IPF approved, that means it is USAPL approved.

What are the best IPF & USAPL approved belts?

Popular IPF approved belts include:

  • Strength Shop 13mm Single Prong (Great Quality, Low Price around $50)
  • Inzer Forever Belt 10mm (Very High Quality, Mid Range Price around $100)
  • SBD Lever Belt (Very High Quality, Most Expensive Price around $227)

What are the best IPF & USAPL approved knee sleeves?

Some of the most popular brands for IPF approved knee sleeves are Stoic and SBD.
Stoic knee sleeves cost around $65 and are probably the best bang for you buck knee sleeve on the market today.
SBD knee sleeves are also top quality sleeves and are frequently seen on the legs of record breaking squatters. These cost between $82 and $90 for a pair.

What are the best IPF & USAPL approved wrist wraps?

I personally am a big fan of the Titan Signature Gold wrist wraps. Titan also makes a slightly less stiff wrap known as Titanium wrist wraps.

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