The Best Lifting Chalk

Buying Guide

Sweaty palms can be a problem when you need a firm grip. That’s why athletes use lifting chalk. From gymnasts to powerlifters to rock climbers, there’s a place in every supply kit for lifting chalk.

The right lifting chalk will absorb sweat, giving your skin the texture you need to grip surfaces without worrying about slipping. Unfortunately, some lifting chalk can be messy, which means you’ll leave residue on every surface you touch. That’s why it’s important to search for the chalk that’s best suited for your sport.

There are two major types of lifting chalk. The best known is powder chalk, which is made from magnesium carbonate. The messiness of powder chalk has led many gyms to ban it, though, which has created a demand for a less messy option: liquid chalk.

Liquid chalk is magnesium carbonate in liquid form. Some types of liquid chalk are just as effective as powder chalk without the mess. These often come in small tubes that you can keep in your pocket during your workout or practice. One big drawback to liquid chalk, however, is that it has to be reapplied often. Having to stop what you’re doing to re-chalk can be an inconvenience. Powder chalk requires less frequent reapplication.

Improved performance is only one reason to use powder or liquid chalk, however. Chalk helps reduce friction, and friction can cause calluses and blisters to form. So by chalking your hands before you work out, practice or compete, you’re giving your hands some protection. However, it’s important to note that using chalk doesn’t guarantee you’ll never get calluses or blisters.

• One of the best tests of a chalk is how long it lasts. Try your new chalk out a few times and monitor closely how often you have to reapply. There are powder chalks that will last longer than others, so if you feel like yours isn’t lasting long enough, start shopping around for alternatives.
• If you’re using chalk in a shared space, be polite and clean up after yourself if you leave residue behind. Neglecting to clean up your messes could lead to it being banned the next time you visit that location.
• Lifting chalk is not the same as the type of chalk you see used on blackboards. The design of lifting chalk is different. It’s specially formulated to improve an athlete’s grip, while blackboard chalk is simply designed for writing. It’s important to make sure you’re getting the right kind of chalk to get the benefits you expect.
• Health-conscious athletes are often concerned about chemicals and dyes. You can find chalks that keep things as natural as possible. Some even use organic ingredients to ensure the chalk lasts longer to avoid the need for reapplication.
• If you have skin sensitivities, you’ll likely want to look around for a chalk formulated to keep skin safe. To be extra cautious, try out any chalk on a small section of your skin before using it.
• Powder chalk often comes in blocks you need to break off. Some chalk comes in a bag designed for you to reach in and chalk your hands.
• With liquid chalk, you can get smaller bottles that are easy to slip into your pocket or hang on your belt loop.
• Scent is an important consideration when you’re choosing a chalk. Some manufacturers add scent to their chalk, and this can be perfumed in nature, so make sure before you buy that you aren’t stuck with a chalk that has an odor you find unpleasant.
• If you choose powder chalk, you can typically store the chunks in a zippered storage bag. This should keep it from getting wet. Keep it in a cool, dry place between uses.
• Chalk balls store chalk inside of a ball-shaped fabric. They’re useful for preventing the spills you can get with a bag of loose chalk, and holding the ball in your hands can help absorb moisture.