The Schiek 2006 American Made Weightlifting Belt offers the same high quality weight belt as the 2004 but with a wider back of 6". What is the advantage of using a wide weightlifting belt? A wider weightlifting belt is not for everyone. But, for those that want a belt that provides more restriction and support to a wider, more evenly distributed area throughout the lower back and trunk, a larger weight belt with wider back is well received. Even though the 2006 is wider than most weight belts, its material combined with the contoured shape that rides above the hip bones and below the rib cage makes it much more practical for performing complex movements compared to a stiff leather belt of the same width. Plus, as is common with leather, there is no "break in" time with a Schiek belt as it gives you a snug, conforming fit right out of the package.