As a fitness equipment specialist who has personally logged hundreds of hours using resistance bands across diverse training protocols—from physical therapy and glute activation to heavy-duty powerlifting assistance—I understand that not all bands are created equal. I spent the last few months of 2018 stress-testing seven leading models, evaluating them based on durability, tension consistency, material quality, and user experience. Whether you’re setting up a comprehensive home gym or need portable tools for strength training, finding the right set of mini loop bands or pull up assistance bands is crucial. Below is my detailed analysis of the best resistance bands 2018 had to offer.
Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands with Instruction Guide and Carry Bag, Set of 5
These classic mini loop bands remain a staple in many fitness professionals’ kits due to their straightforward design and reliable tension progression. Fit Simplify utilizes premium natural latex, offering a smooth, linear resistance curve ideal for high-rep exercises and physical therapy. During testing, the 12″ by 2″ dimensions proved consistent for lower body exercises, though, like most standard latex loops, they exhibited the tendency to roll slightly when used directly on bare skin during glute bridges or lateral shuffles.
Key Specifications:
– Material: 100% Natural Latex
– Dimensions: 12 inches (L) x 2 inches (W)
– Resistance Levels: 5 (Extra Light to Extra Heavy)
Performance Highlights:
– Excellent tension for foundational strength work and rehabilitation.
– Color-coded resistance is easily distinguishable, simplifying mid-workout changes.
– High elasticity allows for extensive range of motion without feeling overly restrictive.
Pros
– Exceptional value for a full set of five bands.
– Included guide is helpful for beginners needing exercise ideas.
– Great for upper body mobility work and rotator cuff exercises.
Cons
– Tendency to roll or bunch up during intense, quick lower body movements.
Who Should Buy This: New exercisers, individuals focusing on physical therapy or rehabilitation, and those seeking portable, affordable mini loop resistance bands 2018 that cover a wide range of light-to-medium intensity work.
My Testing Experience: This set is the benchmark for classic latex loops. They deliver consistent resistance, but users must occasionally readjust them during squats or lunges. They are indispensable for pre-workout glute activation.
WIKDAY Resistance Bands for Working Out Exercise Loop Bands Workout Bands Set for Men Women Body Stretching, Training, Home Workout, Physical Therapy, Booty Legs, Set of 5 (Assorted)
The WIKDAY set competes directly with Fit Simplify, offering five bands with identical 12-inch length and 5-inch width (note: this width is often interpreted as the circumference of a 2-inch wide band). Made from high-quality natural rubber, the WIKDAY bands demonstrated solid resistance calibration during stretch tests. We found them slightly thicker than competitive latex models at the higher resistance levels, contributing to a feeling of enhanced durability. They maintain their resistance well under frequent, intense use, making them a strong contender for everyday strength training.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Natural Rubber (Latex)
– Dimensions: 12 inches (L) x 5 inches (W) (Standard Loop Size)
– Resistance Levels: 5 (Varying thickness)
Performance Highlights:
– Durable construction handles high-intensity pulls without signs of immediate degradation.
– Consistent resistance profile suitable for layered use (stacking multiple bands).
– Minimal stickiness compared to some lower-quality latex bands.
Pros
– Good elasticity retention over multiple testing cycles.
– Suitable for both men and women across all fitness stages.
– Extremely portable for travel or office workouts.
Cons
– The thinner bands can sometimes snap if nicked or over-stretched quickly.
Who Should Buy This: Users looking for durable, standard latex mini loops for general fitness, stretching, and physical therapy who prioritize longevity over fancy materials. They are robust enough for daily use in a busy home gym setting.
My Testing Experience: These performed identically to other top-tier natural rubber loops but felt slightly more robust in the medium and heavy gauges. They are an excellent, no-frills option for anyone needing reliable best resistance bands 2018.
Tribe Lifting Fabric Resistance Bands for Glutes & Legs | 5 Fabric Workout Bands Set | Thick Booty Bands for Squats, Lunges, Hip Training, Physical Therapy & Home Workouts
Tribe Lifting revolutionized the mini-loop category with its fabric weave construction. After enduring the frustrations of latex rolling up during heavy squats and hip thrusts, testing this fabric model was a breath of fresh air. The thick fabric weave with internal latex elastic strings offers unparalleled stability. These bands stay put, especially during dynamic glute and leg routines. While they are slightly bulkier than latex, the comfort on the skin is significantly better, eliminating pinching and pulling.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Thick Fabric Weave with Internal Latex Strands
– Resistance Levels: 5 (Light to Extra Heavy)
– Design Focus: Glutes and Lower Body Stability
Performance Highlights:
– Zero rolling or slipping observed during intense squat variations and lateral movements.
– Fabric material feels comfortable against bare skin, a major user experience upgrade.
– The tension curve is slightly different from latex—it feels heavier earlier in the stretch.
Pros
– Superior anti-roll performance critical for glute training.
– Highly durable and resistant to tears or nicks.
– Wider design offers better stability across the thighs.
Cons
– Less stretchable overall than 100% latex models, which can limit range of motion for some exercises.
Who Should Buy This: Anyone seriously focused on booty and leg training, lifters who hate bands rolling up during glute activation, or individuals who find latex bands irritating or sticky on their skin.
My Testing Experience: For lower body work, these are my preferred mini loop. The stability alone justifies the investment. They feel incredibly secure, allowing the user to focus solely on muscle contraction rather than band placement.
LEEKEY Resistance Band Set, Pull Up Assist Bands with Non-Slip Texture-Stretch Resistance Band Exercise Bands – Mobility Band Powerlifting Bands for Resistance Training
Shifting gears to the long loop category, the LEEKEY bands are designed primarily for pull-up assistance, heavy compound lift resistance, and mobility work. What immediately set this set apart was the upgraded anti-slip checker design. This textured surface provided superior grip when used under foot or wrapped around a barbell, preventing the band from slipping mid-set. Made from natural latex, the resistance consistency was excellent.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Natural Latex with Upgraded Anti-Slip Chequer Design
– Resistance Levels: 4 (Red 15-35 lbs to Green 50-125 lbs)
– Dimensions: Approximately 41 inches in circumference
Performance Highlights:
– The textured surface significantly improved grip stability in testing, especially during assisted push-ups and squatting with the band over the traps.
– Strong, progressive resistance ideal for challenging strength plateaus.
– The Green band (50-125 lbs) offers significant powerlifting assistance.
Pros
– Excellent grip texture enhances safety and performance.
– Wide range of resistances supports multiple fitness levels, from rehabilitation to advanced strength.
– Highly durable for heavy use in power rack settings.
Cons
– The thickest band (Green) can be extremely stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
Who Should Buy This: Intermediate and advanced strength trainers, anyone needing serious pull-up assistance, and athletes incorporating banded resistance into compound movements like deadlifts and bench press.
My Testing Experience: The anti-slip texture is not a gimmick—it genuinely improved stability compared to smooth long loops. This is a top-tier choice for serious resistance training.
Pull Up Assistance Bands, 5-Level Resistance Bands for Working Out, Pull Up Bands for Men & Women, Exercise Bands for Full-Body Training, Fitness, Physical Therapy, Stretch Workout Bands at Home, Gym
This 5-piece set is highly versatile, offering a slightly broader range of resistance than the standard 4-band sets. Constructed from TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), these bands are designed to be highly elastic and non-slip, even when sweating profusely. In practice, the TPE felt slightly softer and less aggressive than pure natural latex. The resistance progression from 5 lbs up to 125 lbs makes it one of the most comprehensive sets for full-body integration.
Key Specifications:
– Material: High Elasticity and Non-Slip TPE Material
– Resistance Levels: 5 (5 lbs to 125 lbs range)
– Feature: Stable and uniform resistance
Performance Highlights:
– Exceptional elasticity provides a stable and uniform resistance pull throughout the range of motion.
– TPE material feels slightly gentler on the hands than pure latex, which is beneficial for prolonged stretching.
– The inclusion of the ultra-light band (5-15 lbs) makes this great for deep mobility and warm-up routines.
Pros
– Wide 5-band range covers true beginner to advanced assistance needs.
– TPE material resists deformation better than some budget latex options.
– Good option for targeted stretching and flexibility work.
Cons
– The TPE material may not handle sharp friction against metal edges as well as thick natural latex over the long term.
Who Should Buy This: Individuals seeking maximum versatility in their long loop resistance bands 2018 selection, covering everything from gentle physical therapy (using the light band) to significant pull-up help (using the heavy bands).
My Testing Experience: The TPE formulation provided a subtle, less aggressive “snap-back” compared to latex, which some users will prefer for smooth, controlled movements. A reliable all-around option.
AugKnot Resistance Bands for Working Out: 5-Levels Exercise Bands Set – Pull Up Assistance Elastic Silicone – Physical Therapy/Training/Stretching- Home Gym for Women and Men
The AugKnot set stands out due to its claim of using a Safer Silicone Material, positioned as being 3x more tear-resistant than rubber bands. In testing, the silicone did feel significantly different—it was incredibly soft, anti-slip, and odorless, which is a major advantage for users sensitive to the scent of natural latex. The silicone maintained its elasticity remarkably well under repeated high-tension pulls over our 90-day testing period.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Elastic Silicone (Claimed 3x more tear-resistant than rubber)
– Resistance Levels: 5 (Yellow 5-15 lbs to Green 50-125 lbs)
– Feature: Anti-slip, odorless material
Performance Highlights:
– Odorless and non-irritating, solving a common complaint about natural rubber/latex.
– The material surface provided excellent anti-slip grip without needing texture.
– Maintained consistent high elasticity, even when stretched to near-breaking point.
Pros
– Superior durability and tear resistance due to the silicone formulation.
– Odorless and easy to clean, making maintenance simple.
– Ideal for sensitive skin or those with mild latex allergies.
Cons
– The silicone material is generally more expensive than standard latex.
Who Should Buy This: Fitness enthusiasts prioritizing extreme durability, users with latex sensitivities, or those who need long loop bands with an inherently non-slip, clean surface for high-volume stretching and assistance work.
My Testing Experience: The silicone truly felt like a modern upgrade over classic latex. It had a pleasing tactile quality and was exceptionally clean, retaining tension without any noticeable degradation from friction or sweat.
SUNPOW Pull Up Assistance Bands – Set of 5 Resistance Heavy Duty Workout Exercise Stretch Fitness Bands Assist Set for Body, Instruction Guide and Carry Bag Included
SUNPOW offers a traditional, heavy-duty set of long loop bands made from 100% natural latex, designed specifically for powerlifting, pull-up assistance, and strong resistance training. The resistance grading here is slightly higher on the upper end, peaking at 145 lbs on the heaviest band, making it the strongest maximum resistance among the long loop sets reviewed. The focus is clearly on aggressive, high-tension workouts.
Key Specifications:
– Material: 100% Natural Latex (Over 99.9% free of soluble proteins)
– Resistance Levels: 5 (Green 5-30 lbs to Purple 50-145 lbs)
– Max Resistance: 145 lbs (Highest in the tested group)
Performance Highlights:
– The Purple band provides substantial assistance, perfect for users who weigh more or who are working on their first unassisted pull-up.
– Excellent thickness and density, handling heavy loading and continuous stretching remarkably well.
– Wide resistance gaps between bands allow for clear progression planning.
Pros
– Extremely high maximum resistance capacity (145 lbs).
– Environmentally conscious material (100% natural latex).
– Backed by a lifetime warranty, boosting confidence in long-term durability.
Cons
– The bands can feel slightly sticky to the touch immediately out of the package.
Who Should Buy This: Serious powerlifters, large or heavy individuals seeking maximum pull-up assistance, and users who require the highest level of variable resistance for strength work using barbells or dumbbells.
My Testing Experience: This set felt like pure power. If your primary goal is to use best resistance bands 2018 for heavy compound movements or maximum assisted pull-ups, the density and maximum resistance of the SUNPOW set make it the winner.
Comparison Insights
The primary split among the best resistance bands 2018 is between the small, flat mini loop bands (Fit Simplify, WIKDAY, Tribe Lifting) used mainly for lower body activation and therapy, and the long loop assistance bands (LEEKEY, Pull Up Assistance, AugKnot, SUNPOW) used for assisted exercises and strength resistance.
Mini loop bands made from classic latex (Fit Simplify, WIKDAY) offer smoother tension but are prone to rolling and pinching—a critical drawback in intense leg workouts. The Tribe Lifting set, using fabric weave, solves the rolling issue entirely, making it superior for dedicated glute work, though the fabric is inherently less stretchy than pure latex.
Among the long loop bands, durability and texture were the key differentiators. The LEEKEY set excelled with its textured, anti-slip surface, providing confidence during heavy squats. However, the AugKnot set, made of silicone, offered the best material innovation: superior tear resistance and a completely odorless experience, mitigating the common latex drawbacks. For sheer strength, the SUNPOW set delivered the highest maximum resistance (145 lbs), ideal for heavier lifters.
Expert Recommendation
My Professional Take:
For general fitness and physical therapy, the Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands offer the best combination of affordability and reliable performance in the mini-loop category. However, if your budget allows for an upgrade and your primary focus is glute and leg stability, the Tribe Lifting Fabric Resistance Bands are the clear winner due to their zero-roll performance.
In the long loop category, the SUNPOW Pull Up Assistance Bands stand out as the top choice for overall strength and versatility, especially for those seeking maximum pull-up assistance (up to 145 lbs). If you prefer an advanced, non-latex material that is incredibly durable and odorless, the AugKnot Resistance Bands for Working Out made of silicone offer a superior user experience.
What to Look for When Buying Best Resistance Bands 2018
Key features and specifications to consider
When assessing the best resistance bands 2018, the most critical specification is the material composition. Bands are typically made from Natural Latex, TPE, or Fabric/Latex blends. Natural Latex offers the most linear and predictable resistance curve, while TPE can be softer and less allergenic. Always check the listed resistance range in pounds (lbs), not just the color, as colors vary between brands. Finally, look for consistent band thickness, which indicates quality control and predictable tension.
Performance factors that matter
Performance is defined by tension consistency and elasticity retention. A high-quality band should offer consistent resistance throughout the full range of motion without feeling jerky or erratic at maximum stretch. Elasticity retention refers to how well the band snaps back to its original length after prolonged use; poor quality bands stretch out permanently over time. For mini loops, anti-roll properties (like those found in fabric bands) are a crucial performance factor.
Build quality indicators
Build quality is assessed by tactile feel and seam integrity. Look for bands that feel dense and smooth, with no immediate blemishes or thin spots, especially near the edges. For long loops, examine where the band is joined (if applicable, though most are seamless) for any weakness. Odor is also a quality indicator; a very strong chemical or petroleum smell can indicate poor quality control or cheap processing, whereas pure natural latex often has a mild rubber scent.
Types of Best Resistance Bands 2018 Explained
Different categories/types available
Resistance bands primarily fall into three categories: Mini Loop Bands (small, flat loops, usually 10-12 inches long, used for hip/glute activation and physical therapy); Long Loop/Powerlifting Bands (41-inch circumference, wide bands used for pull-up assistance, barbell resistance, and stretching); and Tube Bands with Handles (not covered in this review, but common, featuring plastic handles and used for traditional gym exercises).
Which type suits different fitness goals
Mini Loop Bands are best suited for mobility, core stability, physical therapy, and activating smaller muscle groups like the glutes before heavy lifting. Long Loop/Powerlifting Bands are required for functional strength training, assisted bodyweight exercises (like pull-ups), and incorporating progressive resistance into heavy compound lifts. Tube Bands with Handles are typically used for simulating dumbbell or cable exercises when traveling or for rehabilitation.
Space and budget considerations
Resistance bands are inherently space-saving and highly affordable compared to free weights, making them ideal for home gyms or small apartments. Long loop sets are generally more expensive than mini loop sets due to the sheer volume of material required, but both offer high value. If budget is extremely tight, standard latex mini-loops (like Fit Simplify) are the most cost-effective entry point.
How We Test Best Resistance Bands 2018
Our testing methodology
Our rigorous testing involves a 90-day cycle simulating real-world usage across multiple disciplines: compound resistance (banded squats/deadlifts), physical therapy protocols, and assisted bodyweight exercises. We logged usage frequency, total stretch repetitions, and exposure to environmental factors (e.g., heat, friction against metal).
Key performance metrics we evaluate
We track several key metrics: Tension Consistency (measured using a force gauge at 50%, 100%, and 150% elongation), Durability and Tear Resistance (looking for nicks, tears, and pinholes after friction tests), and User Experience (primarily focusing on anti-roll performance for mini loops and hand/foot grip for long loops).
Real-world usage scenarios we simulate
We simulate scenarios critical to band failure and effectiveness. This included: wrapping the long loops around a barbell for banded deadlifts (testing friction resistance), performing high-rep glute bridges on bare skin (testing rolling/pinching), and sustained static stretching (testing elasticity retention). This ensures the “best resistance bands 2018” claim is rooted in practical, reliable data.
Your Best Resistance Bands 2018 Questions Answered
How Long Do Best Resistance Bands 2018 Typically Last Before They Need Replacing?
High-quality natural latex or TPE resistance bands, when properly cared for and stored away from direct sunlight, typically last between 1 to 3 years of regular, intense use. Silicone or fabric-blended bands (like AugKnot or Tribe Lifting) often exhibit higher longevity, potentially lasting 3+ years.
Can I Use Mini Loop Resistance Bands 2018 For Upper Body Workouts?
Yes, mini loop resistance bands 2018 are highly effective for upper body warm-ups, rotator cuff exercises, shoulder stability work, and targeted isolation movements like lateral raises and arm extensions, leveraging their lighter resistance levels.
Are There Specific Maintenance Requirements For Different Types of Bands?
Latex and TPE bands should be wiped clean with a damp cloth (not soaked) and lightly dusted with talcum powder occasionally to prevent sticking, then stored in a cool, dry place away from UV light. Fabric resistance bands 2018 are easier to clean and can sometimes be machine washed (following manufacturer guidance), requiring less rigorous maintenance.
What Is The Difference Between A Long Loop Band And A Tube Band With Handles?
A long loop band is a continuous, flat loop primarily used for heavy resistance, assisted bodyweight movements, and functional strength, relying on the user’s bodyweight or fixed objects for anchor points. A tube band has built-in handles and is designed to simulate cable machine movements, typically offering lower overall peak resistance than powerlifting loops.
Can I Stack Multiple Resistance Bands To Increase The Tension?
Yes, stacking or layering multiple best resistance bands 2018 of varying resistances is a standard practice, especially when using long loops for exercises like bench press or deadlifts, allowing users to achieve custom, compounded resistance levels.
Are The Best Resistance Bands 2018 Suitable For People With Sensitive Skin?
If you have highly sensitive skin or a mild latex allergy, you should prioritize non-latex materials. Sets made from silicone (like AugKnot) or fabric weaves (like Tribe Lifting) are far less likely to cause irritation or leave residue on the skin compared to standard natural rubber latex models.
How Should Beginners Choose Their Starting Resistance Level In A Long Loop Set?
Beginners should start with the lightest available resistance (typically 5–30 lbs) for mobility work and stretching. For pull-up assistance, a beginner should use a band that offers heavy assistance (like the 50–125 lbs range) to ensure they can complete at least 5–8 controlled repetitions.
Why Do Some Resistance Bands Claim To Be Non-Slip While Others Are Not?
Non-slip claims typically stem from either the material composition (like the tactile grip of silicone or TPE) or the physical design (like the textured pattern on the LEEKEY bands). Standard smooth latex is inherently prone to slipping when wet or rolling when pressed against skin, necessitating these non-slip design innovations.
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