Abstract: An article of weightlifting equipment includes a weightlifting jacket having a main vest-shaped body having a front covering the torso of a user, a back connected to the front, and one or more pads that provide a cushion to provide comfort and to protect the user from injury by reducing the force on the body caused by a barbell. The pads include a front pad that is positioned on the portion of the jacket front to cover the lower torso of a user wearing the weightlifting jacket. The jacket also includes one or more adjustable straps that allow the jacket to be fitted for users of different sizes. The equipment can have other forms, such as a belt instead of a jacket for positioning the torso pad.