Used by weightlifters, the climbers and serious gymnasts, lifting chalk can help those who need a sure grip on their task. From sweaty palms to hot or humid environments, Lifting Chalk can be an athlete's "swole" companion for maintaining grip and make gains thanks to its magical moisture-absorbing ingredient, magnesium carbonate. But depending on your activity and personal preference, there are major differences between lifting chalks.
In the gym, like weightlifting , gymnastics, or kettlebell training, "chalk is used to help you hold onto the bar, it's not used to help you slip or slide or get rid of friction," says Denise Cervantes, ACE-, NASM-CPT , USA Weightlifting L1 Certified Trainer and Functional Movement Specialist with FMS L1. "So you need to find the right chalk that you like and that works for you and your sport.".
Whatever your activity, the right lifting chalk should provide a safe and secure grip, stay in place while you sweat, and be convenient to use depending on your workout routine and environment. It should also suit your budget and last you a while. To help you find the right lifting chalk, we've researched dozens of options on the market and rated them for convenience, consistency, messiness, dry time, grip strength, resistance, overall value, etc.
Based on our research, here is the best lifting chalk on the market.
Best overall
Snape Chalk
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Quickly absorbs moisture
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Sustainable bricks
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Available in bulk
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Debris can be messy
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Not widely available
Reliable and simple, the Rogue Chalk is our top pick thanks to its sweat-wicking performance and secure grip. The popular block-style lifting chalk - trusted and preferred by professional weightlifters, CrossFitters, kettlebell lovers and gymnasts - is lightweight and versatile between sports. It's easy to apply to hands or clothing for full, non-slip contact with a barbell and stays put between exercises.
Each Brick of Rogue Non-Toxic Magnesium Carbonate Lifting Chalk is individually wrapped in paper wrappers, holding the compressed chalk until needed. While not the neatest form of chalk on the market, any unwanted mess is easy to manage with a little technique and smart storage. Store the chalk block in your gym between uses using a lidded container or zippered storage bag.
What the experts remain: "Love, love, love Rogue Chalk! I like it because I like its consistency. It's not too grainy; it's more on the bright side, and it stays on for me. Usually the liquid chalk is a bit more sticky and I don't like sticking to my bar too much. Rogue chalk is the best! said Denise Cervantes, ACE-, NASM-CPT , certified weightlifting and functional movement coach, Los Angeles, CA.
You can also invest in a designated chalk bag to keep in the gym for common use. Affordable and available in bulk, we love this quality and durable lifting chalk.
Key specs:
Consistency: Dry solid | Package size: Eight 2-ounce blocks per pack; bulk orders of five packs available | Scent : None | Drying time : None | Grip strength: strong
Best budget
SPRI chalk
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Available in small packs
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Ideal for first-time users
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Can be broken into smaller pieces
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Debris can be messy
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Doesn't last as long as others
If you're on a budget or just want a smaller size, we recommend this wallet-friendly chalk pad option. A similar 2-ounce brick comparable to our top pick from Rogue, SPRI Chalk Blocks come in different pack sizes, so you don't have to commit to a big pack. If you're new to chalk lifting or don't move very quickly, we recommend this option.
Firmly compressed, these blocks are easy to use, store and apply, and can be separated for smaller containers or custom use. Like Rogue blocks, SPRI keeps its formula non-toxic and dye-free. The grip feels strong and absorbs moisture from the palms for several lifts before reapplying, making it our best bang for your buck.
Key specs:
Consistency: Dry solid | Package size: 2 oz blocks in packs of 2, 4 and 8 | Scent : None | Drying time : None | Grip strength: strong
Best Liquid
Fire Team Fit Liquid Chalk
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Low mess and dust free
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Refillable bottle with carabiner
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Dries quickly
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Dear
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A little flaky with wear
For more mess-free options, we love this liquid lifting chalk that comes in a handy travel-size bottle. Without the dust of the loose or block options, squeeze out a small amount, then rub the quick-drying chalk onto your hands as needed. Wait a few seconds and you have a powerful grip ready for action.
Portable and refillable, the small US-based company developed the chalk with the military, public servants and athletes in mind. They even designed the bottle with a smart carry loop and carabiner to easily attach to your gym bag, backpack, or workout gear for quick and accessible use.
We appreciate the quality of this odorless and non-toxic liquid chalk that does not sweat like some others on the market. It's a bit pricey up front, but with a variety of pack size options and a refill bottle to encourage less plastic waste, this handy liquid chalk proves to be great value for money.
Key specs:
Consistency : Liquid | Package size: 50 milliliter bottle in packs of 2, 5 and 10; 250 milliliter refill bottle only; combo pack: 50 milliliter bottle with 250 milliliter refill bottle | Scent : None | Drying time : Fast | Grip strength: strong
Best Together
Togear Liquid Chalk
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Economic
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Refillable bottle with carabiner
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Without flakes
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Takes longer to dry than others
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Doesn't last as long as others
As the Fire Team Fit Liquid Chalk , this liquid chalk comes in a handy, refillable bottle, but is sold in different sets. Multi-pack options include various large, small and pocket carabiner bottles at a very affordable price. You can also buy it in individual sizes, and there's even a special consistency for pole dancing exercises.
This chalk puts on neatly and stores safely. Just toss the bottles mess-free in a bag or locker until your next workout. This liquid chalk tends to dry a little slower than others and sometimes needs to be reapplied sooner, but once dry it fights sweat very well and doesn't flake when it fades.
Key specs:
Consistency : Liquid | Packing size: 50, 100 and 250 milliliter bottles; 50 millimeters in pack of 2; Combo set of 50 and 100 milliliter bottles; Set of 50 and 250 milliliter bottles | Scent : None | Drying time : Slow | Grip strength: strong
Best rechargeable
Gladiator Refillable Chalk Ball
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Small and compact
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Refillable thick cotton sock ball
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Excellent value
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Filling can get messy
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Some gyms may not allow this
For a refillable, non-liquid option, this chalk ball from Gladiator is great value. Made from a thick, refillable sock-like cotton, the ball comes with a bag of 100% magnesium carbonate loose chalk that keeps hands dry and the grip secure.
Not only is it a good amount to get you through countless training sessions, but using a ball of chalk helps contain loose, otherwise extremely messy chalk. The bag material is thick, releasing small amounts of chalk into your hands for a cleaner, more controlled experience.
The toggle on the bag closes tightly and the remaining loop can be attached to items if desired. It's a good idea to place it in a zip-top plastic bag or container before tossing it in your bag, just in case. Because this is bulk chalk, we also advise that you carefully fill in and check your gym's policy regarding this form of lifting chalk.
Key specs:
Consistency : loose | Package size: a ball of chalk and a 400 gram bag of bulk lifting chalk | Scent : None | Drying time : Fast | Grip strength: strong
Best Heavy Duty
Friction Labs Bam Bam Super Chunky Sports Chalk
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Blend for better grip
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Versatile range of piece sizes in one bag
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Don't dry out your hands
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Some gyms may not allow powder chunks
If you're looking for a super-sticky, high-friction lifting chalk to help you lift heavy loads, try this popular chalk from Friction Labs. A unique blend of lifting chalk with a high concentration of magnesium carbonate, it is very effective at keeping hands sweat-free without over-drying them. It also has great endurance, a real timesaver when you want to rest and recuperate instead of reapplying between repetitions.
Climbers and lifters love the chunky bits and powdery bits inside that make it versatile in many situations, from carrying in a pocket to light dusting of slick fingers. If you want a different consistency, this chalk comes in less coarse and finer grits that can still give your workout routine a solid grip.
Key specs:
Consistency : Broken Pieces | Package size: 1, 2.5, 5 and 10 oz bags | Scent : None | Drying time : None | Grip strength: extra strong
Best long lasting
Spider Chalk Black Widow Liquid Chalk
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Long life expectancy
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Ideal for long, high rep workouts
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The bottle lasts a long time
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A little expensive
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Strong smell of alcohol
You really don't like not reapply during your session? This liquid lifting chalk is definitely for you. With a special blend of bonding agents, nano-resins and tackifiers, the Black Widow lives up to its name because once this product is in your hands, it stays, helping you cling to your gear. like Spiderman.
Made with an exclusive super-grip formula designed to last up to 60 minutes, this long-lasting chalk is a fan-favorite game-changer for repeated, long and sweaty workouts like CrossFit. You can even use it for a better grip on elliptical machines if your palms tend to sweat a lot.
It's a bit more expensive than other options on the market, but a little goes a long way, supposedly containing over 200 applications per bottle. With that kind of longevity and proven testimonials from legit and competitive athletes, we take this one for granted.
Main Features :
Consistency : Liquid | Package size: 4 oz bottle | Smell : Yes, strong smell of alcohol that fades | Drying time : Fast | Grip strength: extra strong
Best Wholesale Buy
Primo Chalk Chalk Bucket
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Excellent value
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Ideal for home gyms
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Smells good with essential oils
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Most conventional gyms do not allow
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Need a small container or bag for transport
Can we interest you in a “primo” deal? With this first choice, you get a huge book of loose chalk in a bucket to do whatever you want, as long as your gym or indoor cleaning freak allows.
This loose chalk not only helps grip sweaty palms, it's also formulated to hydrate hands with essential oils, a welcome touch for those who regularly suffer from chapping. The added ingredient gives this tub a pleasant smell, but may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin or anyone who prefers a scent-free session.
We recommend this Primo Chalk tub to anyone who has a home gym, uses refillable chalk balls, or owns or frequents a gym that allows the use of loose chalk. As always, it's best to check with your gym to make sure this type of chalk is acceptable, and if so, find a lightweight, no-mess container to pack some for the road.
Key specs:
Consistency : loose | Package size: 0.5 kg bucket | Smell : Yes, pleasant | Drying time : None | Grip strength: strong
Ideal for on the go
Bryo Refillable Chalk Sock
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Mess-free sleeve for travel
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Pure magnesium carbonate
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Bag and refill are inexpensive
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Filling can get messy
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Some gyms may not allow this
If you're headed to the gym with loose chalk, we highly recommend this portable chalk ball with a mess-filled travel pouch. Pre-filled with pure sweat-absorbing magnesium carbonate, this chalk ball is an easy way to get the benefits of loose powder without all the mess.
The bonus travel pouch makes our tidy little hearts skip a beat knowing it won't completely dust the inside of a gym bag and extends the life of the chalk purchase. It also keeps your things more hygienic, knowing that the sweaty sock material has its own bag.
As with all loose powder chalk, refilling can get messy, but each refill lasts quite a long time. Refill chalk is sold separately but is affordable. We love a bargain!
Key specs:
Consistency : loose | Package size: 0.5 kg bucket | Smell : Yes, pleasant | Drying time : None | Grip strength: mean
Best antibacterial
MIDAS Liquid Chalk
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Ideal for shared equipment
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Gold tinted color guide
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Soft lotion feeling
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A little expensive
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Strong smell of alcohol
In superbug season, it's good to know that this lifting chalk is on the market to fight contagious bacteria and viruses when you can't wash your hands mid-workout. Formulated with antibacterial properties, this nifty gold-hued chalk kills germs on contact.
Unlike many liquid chalks which are clear until they dry, the gold color helps you see exactly where you put it (much like a tinted self-tanner guide), then dries white to look like to chalk. This is very useful to avoid using too much or getting on your clothes.
We love the soft lotion feel of this chalk, as well as how well it stays on the hands - it doesn't rub off onto clothes but washes off easily, which is another plus. It comes in two sizes - one with a handy carabiner - and although it's a bit more expensive than other chalks, this product is worth its weight in liquid gold during flu season, if you ask us.
Key specs:
Consistency : Liquid | Package size: 2 and 6 ounce bottles; two packs of 2-ounce bottles; 2 & 6 Ounce Bottle Pack | Smell : Yes, strong smell of alcohol that fades | Drying time : A little fast | Grip strength: mean
Ideal for hot and humid conditions
"The Ultimate Gripping Solution" All Sports Topical Lotion for Dry Hands
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Repels rain and moisture
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Compact bottle can fit in small pockets
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Glove-like protection when lifting
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Dear
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Small bottle size won't last as long
This liquid chalk is our top choice for effectively tackling hot, humid conditions where your sport makes you sweat. Not only does it manage sweat perfectly, but it also repels water in wet weather when your outdoor session is caught in the rain. Users appreciate it for its second skin effect which dries without a powdery film.
This pocket bottle is very convenient to take out when needed and then store in the most compact compartment. It's pricey for just 1 ounce of chalk lotion, but like others on our list, a little goes a long way, making the purchase a little less of a wallet-breaker.
Main Features :
Consistency : Liquid | Package size: 1 ounce bottle | Scent : None | Drying time : Fast | Grip strength: strong
How We Chose the Best Lifting Chalk
To choose the best lifting chalk, we first spoke with the personal trainer and certified weightlifting and functional movement trainer Denise Cervantes, ACE-, NASM-CPT , and the gym owner Heather Lachance, CPT, NCC , for their expert advice on the characteristics of lifting chalk. needed to be effective. Next, we consulted academic journals and scientific findings to understand the safety and performance benefits of lifting chalk in certain sports or circumstances.
Next, we searched dozens of lifting chalks from top, trusted brands. We only chose lifting chalk that ranked first in key areas including convenience, consistency, dry time and strength. We also considered comfort, durability, any additional features, and overall value.
What to Look for in Lifting Chalk
Consistency
Chalk comes in bulk, solid or liquid form, and the main ingredient is magnesium carbonate. Loose chalk is in powder form and is not widely used or allowed in gyms as often due to its messiness. It can be kept in a container or pouch for application when needed. Solid Lifting Chalk is the compressed block-style version that is applied to hands by lightly rubbing and dusting away debris. It usually comes in different pack sizes, depending on how fast you go through it.
Cervantes prefers Rogue chalk for its clean and easy application. "You can kind of draw on the hand with the block on the parts of the athlete's hands that make the most contact with the bar," she says, "and it stays in place rather than loose chalk. and shattered which somehow covers the whole hand and is somehow messy and spread everywhere and wherever you touch.
Liquid chalk is even cleaner and can be applied to your hands exactly where you need it. It contains alcohol, which dries quickly, so act quickly to spread it on the parts of the hand that will come into contact with the lifting surface. Due to the alcohol, liquid chalk looks a lot like hand sanitizer and often doubles as an antibacterial, but be careful not to use it if you're sensitive to the ingredients.
Drying time
When you're in the middle of a workout, you might want chalk that dries quickly. Liquid chalk, as our top pick Fire Team Fit Liquid Chalk , contains alcohol to help it do just that, but as mentioned, you need to act fast to apply it to the areas needed. Other forms of lifting chalk, such as loose or block forms, do not require drying time - just careful dusting of debris, and you're good to go.
Mess
Some gyms don't allow chalk lifting in an effort to avoid extra mess and chalk dust in the air, and almost all don't allow loose chalk. But the most weight rooms authorize the use of chalk and sometimes even provide it.
Heather Lachance, CPT, NCC , gym owner, says technique and holding chalk go a long way to avoid having chalk on your hands. “If you have a home gym, try to have a designated space to store your chalk (like a chalk bin). If you go to a commercial gym, keep it in a sealed bag except when you're using it, so you don't raise any maintenance issues with reception! Check your gym's chalk policy to find out what type of chalk, if any, you can use.
There are also plenty of no-mess options, such as liquid chalk, which leave no debris behind. With the right technique, even block chalk can be quite clean, says Lachance. "The way to make it as messy as possible is to take the block and paint the inside of your hands. It doesn't have to be a thick layer.
grip strength
Lifting chalk helps you grip a surface better, such as a gymnastic bar, ring or bar, or a climbing rock, and can help you maintain that grip securely longer as you increase your weight, your movements or elevation. So, depending on your sport, you might need lifting chalk that's stickier (or less sticky) than others. Look for a grip strength level listed on the chalk to make sure it's designed to give (or superimpose) the grip you need to perform your routine safely.
be able to stay
Exercising, especially in hot and humid environments, can make your hands very sweaty. That's why we recommend using a magnesium carbonate lifting chalk, like any of our top picks, over regular chalk. And if you're in for an extra-long, sweaty session, opt for a lifting chalk with enhanced resistance like the liquid chalk Spider Chalk Black Widow , which has a special formula to make it last even longer between applications.
Convenience
We recommend that you choose a lifting chalk that not only provides sufficient grip, but is also convenient to use. Loose chalk can be messy, but chalk sachets are an easy way to contain powder and coat hands. Some pouches are sold with pouches for transport and storage. Solid chalk blocks are less dusty, usually wrapped in paper, and can be placed in a small lidded container inside your gym bag for quick and easy use. Liquid chalk comes in squeeze bottles and sometimes has carabiners or loops that easily attach to bags or belts.