Gimbal Belts & Gloves
Gimbal belts, fighting harnesses, butt cushions and fishing gloves for jigging, topwater and game fishing. Our range features Shimano and Black Magic, alongside Daiwa, Lo-Cab and Cush It.
A gimbal belt takes the strain of a big fish off your body, and gloves protect your hands when casting, jigging and handling heavy leader. Pair them with a powerful jigging rod, topwater rod or game rod.
Try a belt on for fit at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about gimbal belts and gloves
What is a gimbal belt?
A gimbal belt is a padded belt worn around your hips with a cup or gimbal pin that holds the butt of your rod, so the rod pushes against the belt rather than digging into your stomach or groin when fighting a big fish. It lets you use your legs and body to apply pressure. Gimbal belts are essential for jigging, live baiting and game fishing for kingfish, tuna and marlin.
Do I need a harness as well as a gimbal belt?
For long fights with big fish, a harness that clips to the reel's lugs and sits around your back or shoulders lets you lean back and use your body weight, taking the strain off your arms. It is very useful for stand-up game fishing and heavy jigging. For shorter fights with moderate kingfish, a gimbal belt alone is often enough. Make sure the harness clips match your reel's lugs before you head out.
What are casting gloves for?
Casting gloves, often with one or two finger stalls, protect your fingers when casting heavy topwater lures and jigs with braid, which can cut or burn skin as it peels off the spool. They also improve grip on the rod when wet. Topwater anglers casting all day for kingfish find a casting glove makes a big difference to comfort and avoids painful line cuts.
Why wear gloves when handling leader and fish?
Leader gloves protect your hands when grabbing heavy leader to land a big fish, when wiring game fish and when handling spiny or slippery fish. They give a much better grip and reduce cuts from line and fins. Many anglers also wear gloves in winter for warmth. Choose gloves designed for fishing, which keep their grip when wet. Keep a pair in the boat so they are always on hand when you need them.
What is a butt cushion?
A butt cushion, or butt pad, is a padded pad that sits against your thigh or hip to hold the rod butt when you are fighting a fish without a full gimbal belt. It is lighter and quicker to use than a belt, which makes it popular for jigging and live baiting when you want comfort without bulk. It suits shorter fights rather than long battles with big game fish.
How should a gimbal belt fit?
A gimbal belt should sit low on your hips, below your waist, with the gimbal cup in front of your body, where your legs can take the load. Adjust the strap so it is snug and does not slip when the rod pulls on it. Make sure the gimbal fitting matches your rod's butt, either a cross pin or a cup, so the rod sits securely without twisting. Try it on with your rod first.