Straps can be an important part of serious lifting. Some view them as a crutch, but when the grip gives out before you reach those one or two last reps, than the need for straps should become clear. I'll use straps when doing partials in a power rack. The bar usually will be two or three hundred pounds over my best DL (without straps) and I get the full benefit out of doing short range Hi-pulls, shrugs, Hacks, SLDL & DL's.
I've ripped apart a lot of super inforced cotton and leather straps in the past and I find that the nylon made one's are the best for me and a lot of my Bud's. Never have ripped those apart. I've been told they are made from the same material that auto/truck tow line are made. The nylon straps do look about the same thickness as the tow lines in my truck, so who knows. After using them for awhile they will form around your wrist and hands very well. Good Luck.
