As a certified personal trainer and home gym owner, I appreciate the functionality and versatility of a high-quality squat rack. However, I sympathize with fitness enthusiasts with limited room to accommodate this valuable, but often large, piece of equipment. Luckily, a folding squat rack can provide a solution.
However, with different mounting mechanisms, weight capacities, build materials, and attachment options, determining which rack to get can be overwhelming. To help you find the right fit, we evaluated over a dozen folding models on key factors such as build materials, footprint, and versatility so you can choose the one that best suits you and your training space.
Best folding squat rack overall
Available in nine custom colors, the USA-made PRx Profile Folding Full Cage boasts a 1,000-pound weight capacity and uses spring-assisted wall brackets to make lifting, folding, and storing it a breeze. Learn more about our top overall pick in our review below.
Our picks for the best folding squat racks
- Best overall: PRx Profile Folding Full Cage
- Best for small spaces: Titan Fitness T-3 Fold Back Wall-Mounted Squat Rack
- Best value: REP Fitness PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
- Most customizable: Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
- Most versatile: Major Fitness Lightning F35
- Best door-mounted: Rogue Fitness RML-90SLIM Door Mount Fold Back Rack
Compare the best folding squat racks
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| PRx Profile Folding Full Cage | Titan Fitness T-3 Fold Back Wall-Mounted Squat Rack | REP Fitness PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack | Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack | Major Fitness Lightning F35 | Rogue Fitness RML-90SLIM Door Mount Fold Back Rack | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Price | $2,500 | $500 or $580, depending on the depth | $500 or $580, depending on the depth | $600 | Starts at $950 | $575 |
| Weight capacity | 1,000 lbs. | 1,000 lbs. | 1,000 lbs. | 2,000 lbs | 660 lbs. | 1,000 lbs. |
Best folding squat rack overall: PRx Profile Folding Full Cage
Key product features
What you should know
PRx has earned a reputation for making high-quality, space-saving fitness equipment. The Profile Folding Full Cage is a compact solution that’s highly customizable—albeit at a premium price point.
- Our product tester gave the PRx rack a perfect score in the workout experience category. She’d recommend it to someone looking for an ultra-sturdy squat rack.
- At $2,500, this is one of the most expensive folding squat racks on the market.
- The Profile Folding Full Cage is a good investment if you’re looking for a heavy-duty four-post cage that gives you maximum stability and full functionality of your home gym’s floor space.
Why we like PRx Profile Folding Full Cage as best overall
A premium-priced squat rack built from heavy-duty 11-gauge steel, the Profile Folding Full Cage gives you the space-saving conveniences of the original PRx Profile Rack with the added comfort and security of a four-post design. It’s available in nine colors: orange, black, white, stealth grey, red, blue, sky blue, neon green, and purple. This overall pick also comes in two height options—89 or 95 inches.
Our tester gave PRx’s folding cage a 4.5 out of 5 stars for construction—the rack supports up to 1,000 pounds. This should be more than enough for most home gym owners who want to focus on compound exercises like squats, bench presses, and overhead presses. These movements are more efficient for improving muscle strength and maximal oxygen consumption (the amount of oxygen your body utilizes during exercise) than single-joint exercises. (1)
“Full-body movements are not only more efficient for training multiple muscle groups, meaning more bang for your buck, but they’re also more efficient from a time perspective. This doesn’t mean there’s not a time or place for isolation movements, but the majority of people would benefit more from full-body exercises (think lunges, deadlifts, presses, etc.) versus concentration curls, for example.”
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
To keep the cage secured, you’ll mount it on a wall using studs that are evenly spaced at 16 or 24 inches. A PRx purchase includes all the mounting hardware you’ll need, so assembly is as quick as possible.
When in use, the PRx cage sticks out 54.75 inches from the wall. However, it only sticks out 8 inches when folded, making it a terrific space-saving solution.
Most importantly, it doesn’t take much effort to go from using the rack for squats and other lifts to making it take up minimal room.
“The spring-assisted wall mount system makes moving and folding this rack very easy,” our product tester noted. “Just make sure your floor is level, otherwise the bottom can rub against the floor and you will have to lift it up slightly to move it. But you’ll need to add 500-plus pounds to have any give to this rack. I can’t say enough about how sturdy it is.”
Although this rack earned a perfect stability score, its high price tag and the fact it only includes one attachment (J-cups) led to a value rating of just 3.5 out of 5 stars from our testers.
“It’s a pricey investment, but we still think it’s one of the better wall-mounted racks out there,” our lead tester noted.
Specs
| Price | $2,500 |
| Footprint | 89” or 95” H x 54.5” W x 54.75” D (working)89” or 95” H x 54.5” W x 8” D (folded) |
| Weight capacity | 1,000 lbs. |
| Material | 11-gauge steel |
Best folding squat rack for small spaces: Titan Fitness T-3 Fold Back Wall-Mounted Squat Rack
Key product features
What you should know
The T-3 Series Fold Back Wall-Mounted Squat Rack uses a pin and hinge system for efficient storage.
- When not in use, this squat rack folds to five inches from the wall, making it ideal for small spaces.
- Depending on which height and depth configurations you choose, this rack can cost as little as $379.99 or as much as $490.
- Titan designed this compact rack for users who want to quickly transition from crushing squats to creating more usable space.
Why we like Titan Fitness T-3 Fold Back Wall-Mounted Squat Rack as best for small spaces
The Titan Fitness T-3 Series Folding Power Rack has similar features as the non-folding version that we tested. This budget-friendly rack consists of heavy-duty 11-gauge steel and boasts a 1,100-pound weight capacity. It also has Westside hole spacing for precise bar height adjustments when bench pressing and a folding feature that allows you to preserve valuable space in your home gym.
The T-3 has a few different dimensions to choose from: 82 or 91 inches tall and 21.5 or 41.5 inches deep. This lets you customize the rack to suit your gym space. Plus, with a folding rack like the T-3, you must consider whether you’ll have enough depth for your bench so you can align yourself with the J-cups and be able to unrack the barbell easily. You’ll also have to determine whether you can perform exercises like kipping pull-ups, which require more space, without hitting the wall.
“Kipping pull-ups certainly aren’t the only type of pull-up that may be beneficial, but data suggests that if you’re safely able to work up to an exercise like these, there may be some benefit. Of course standard pull-ups, chin-ups, and any other pull-up variation can also be if there is adequate space and room.”
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
The T-3 easily folds away using a pin and hinge system for efficient storage. It’s only 5 inches from the wall when folded, so you can create enough space to perform deadlifts and Olympic lifts in front of the rack. This feature also gives you more room to maneuver around your gym.
It’s worth noting that Titan doesn’t include mounting hardware or a rack stringer. But, you can purchase a stringer from another brand, and you should be able to find the necessary mounting hardware at your local hardware store.
Furthermore, our team found the construction on the non-folding T-3 lacking in certain areas, as Titan used cheaper bolts and sub-par J-cups. Since the folding version uses the same build materials, this could give you reason for concern. The other area Titan falls short in is its warranty—the brand only offers a one-year warranty, which is inferior to other manufacturers.
Specs
| Price | $379.99-$490 |
| Footprint | 82” or 91” H x 46” W x 21.5” or 41.5” D |
| Weight capacity | 1,100 lbs. |
| Material | 11-gauge steel |
Best value folding squat rack: REP Fitness PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack
Key product features
What you should know
Built similarly to our top overall squat rack, the PR-4100 is essentially a foldable version of REP’s highly-rated PR-4000 model.
- The PR-4100 comes in two sizes: 21.5 or 41 inches deep. While the former takes up just 6 inches from the wall when folded, the latter takes up 24.
- We believe the $500 price point represents excellent value, as you get a compact yet sturdy rack made with 11-gauge steel uprights—our preferred option due to their ability to support a high amount of weight.
- This folding squat rack is a great option for garage gym owners who value versatility, as you can add various attachments to expand your exercise options.
Why we like REP Fitness PR-4100 Folding Squat Rack as best value
Considering REP’s PR-4000 took home the title of our best home gym, it should be no surprise that the PR-4100 earned the nod as our best value pick for folding squat racks. For about $500, you get a compact, yet sturdy, rack made with 3” x 3” 11-gauge steel uprights that have 1” hole spacing throughout the bench press and pull area. This allows you to set the barbell at a more precise height, which can help you feel more comfortable during your lifts.
Available in two depth options (21.5 or 41 inches), the PR-4100 folds up using heavy-duty pull pins. The 21.5-inch model folds in on itself to take up just 6 inches from the wall. Meanwhile, the 41-inch model folds left and right to take up 24 inches from the wall.
When mounted properly, the PR-41000 has a weight capacity of 1,000 pounds. However, REP doesn’t include all the mounting hardware. You’ll have to get a stringer (the wood or plate mounted onto the wall/studs that you affix the rack to) elsewhere, as REP’s Stringer isn’t compatible with this model.
By going the budget-friendly route with your rack, you should have money left to take advantage of REP’s array of compatible attachments. Whether it’s a landmine attachment ($90), spotter arms ($150), or a dip station ($120), you can transform the PR-4100 into a more versatile strength training machine.
One knock against this rack is that at 92.3 inches tall, it’s not built for low ceilings. Before you make the PR-4100 the center of your home gym setup, make sure you have sufficient space to make full use of its functionality.
Specs
| Price | $500 or $580, depending on the depth |
| Footprint | 92.3” H x 48” W x 21.5” or 41” D |
| Weight capacity | 1,000 pounds |
| Material | 11-gauge steel |
Most customizable folding squat rack: Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
Key product features
What you should know
The MyRack Folding Power Rack boasts one of the highest weight capacities of any model we’ve tested.
- The Folding MyRack offers more interior working space and nearly double the weight capacity of similar racks. Plus, it doesn’t need to be mounted to a wall.
- While this rack costs $600 on its own, you can upgrade your setup with accessories like safety spotter arms ($100), J-hooks ($70), or a dip handle ($130).
- Force USA designed this folding rack for fitness enthusiasts who want to fully customize their training experience, as you can choose from 11 separate attachments.
Why we like Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack as most customizable
The first fully folding power rack system of its kind, the Force USA Folding MyRack doesn’t need to be mounted to a wall. While this already separates it from the pack, its high degree of customizability makes it even more valuable.
Force USA offers 11 optional attachments and compatible accessories, including dip handles ($130), weight plate holders ($50), J-hooks ($70), and safety spotter arms ($100). For $300, you can transform this free-standing squat rack into an even more versatile machine by adding the MyRack lat pulldown and low-row attachment.
Even if you don’t splurge on attachments right away, this $600 rack has an integrated multi-grip pull-up bar—a nice bonus for upper body and core training. The bar has knurled handles that help you maintain a solid grip on an otherwise slippery powder coat.
This system has hundreds of possible configurations and should serve as an excellent strength training platform for your lifts. A 2,000-pound weight capacity topples many other competitors. Meanwhile, the 12-gauge steel uprights have 55 numbered adjustment points so you can set the height for your barbell exactly where you need it.
“One tool or setup that offers so much variety is a fantastic addition to any home gym. When it’s sturdy and can support various tools and attachments, like a pull-up bar, safety spotter arms, and more, it’s a win. Home gyms don’t have to be fancy, but they should offer different, safe options for the lifter.”
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
Based on our team’s experience with the non-folding version of the Force USA MyRack, we feel confident in this rack’s sturdy design and overall construction. However, the quality of some of the attachments left us disappointed. For example, the MyRack weight plate holders are made of a thin steel rod with a plastic sheath that doesn’t seem particularly durable.
However, given the affordable base price of this rack, it’s still a great option for home gym owners who want the space-saving benefits of a folding rack without having to attach it to a wall or around a doorway.
Specs
| Price | $600 |
| Footprint | 47.5” W x 45.5” D x 86” H (working)53” W x 23.5” D x 84” H (folded) |
| Weight capacity | 2,000 pounds |
| Material | 12-gauge steel |
Most versatile folding squat rack: Major Fitness Lightning F35
Key product features
What you should know
The Major Fitness Lightning F35 gives you a power rack, cable pulley system, multi-grip pull-up bar, and 360° landmine all in one. This unique machine allows you to perform more than 80 exercises, giving you excellent versatility and functionality.
- You can tailor the F35 to fit the aesthetic of your gym by choosing between red, black, or gray uprights.
- While the rack costs $950 on its own, Major Fitness offers several packages that include other workout equipment. For example, you can pair the F35 with a weight bench for $1,210.
- This four-in-one strength training system is designed for users who want to be able to do full-body workouts using the rack, dual cable pulley system, and various practical attachments.
Why we like Major Fitness Lightning F35 as most versatile
An all-in-one home gym featuring a unique foldable design, the Lightning F35 integrates a power rack, cable pulley system, multi-grip pull-up bar, and 360° landmine into a single machine. This gives you excellent versatility, opening the door to dynamic full-body workouts and intense strength training sessions.
Made from 2” x 3” 14-gauge steel, the Lightning F35 has a rackable capacity of 660 pounds. While this isn’t as high as some of the other racks on our list, it should suit beginners and intermediate lifters well. You can choose from red, gray, or black uprights, giving you the ability to tailor your rack to fit your home gym’s aesthetic.
In addition to the power rack, you also get a plate-loaded cable pulley system with independent dual pulleys. This means you can have up to three people using the rack at once—a bonus if you’re looking for a way to get your family or friends involved in your fitness journey. The pulley system has 15 adjustable positions and features a 1:1 pulley ratio, which means you’ll pull the exact weight that’s loaded.
Meanwhile, the landmine attachment allows you to perform challenging compound exercises like landmine squats, rows, and presses. Landmine squats, in particular, have been shown to balance hamstring to quadriceps activity compared to goblet squats. (3)
“What’s also nice about the landmine attachment is you can use it for so many other exercises. In addition to squats, I personally love and recommend various types of landmine lunges, presses, rows, Romanian deadlifts, and more. Having that attachment is a fantastic addition to any squat rack and really takes it to the next level.”
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
Plus, the integrated pull-up bar offers multiple grip options so you can target your upper-body muscles more specifically using different pull-up variations. (4)
The Lightning F35’s folding mechanism saves you over 30% of space once you’re done working out. You can reduce its footprint from 92.5” W x 24.8” D x 84.4” to 68.8” W x 21.1” D x 84.4” by pulling out the elastic pin at the top and folding in the uprights. Unlike many other manufacturers, Major Fitness designed this rack with seven adjustable folding angles, which makes it well-suited for just about any space.
Although we’d prefer a rack made from 11-gauge steel rather than 14-gauge steel due to its durability and strength, it’s hard to knock such a versatile rack that’s also well-priced at $950. If you have more room in your budget, you can also opt for a package like the rack and a weight bench for $1,210 or a rack, bench, barbell, and 230-pound weight plate set for $2,050. Rather than buying those items individually, you can save some money (and set yourself up for some serious strength training sessions) by purchasing them as a set.
Specs
| Price | Starts at $950 |
| Footprint | 84.4” H x 92.5” W x 24.8” D (working)84.4” H x 68.8” W x 21.1” D (folded) |
| Weight capacity | 660 pounds |
| Material | 14-gauge steel |
Best door-mounted folding squat rack: Rogue Fitness RML-90SLIM Door Mount Fold Back Rack
Key product features
What you should know
The RML-90SLIM Door Mount Rack is a fold-back version of Rogue’s highly touted RML-90SLIM Rack. It features a Monster Lite adjustable pull-up bar and Monster Lite J-cups.
- The RML-90SLIM Door Mount Rack fits all standard door widths of 28”, 30”, 32”, and 36” using stringers that are 19.5” wide.
- It’s already well-priced at $575, but you can upgrade from standard to numbered uprights for just $25 more—a marginal cost for such a major convenience.
- Home gym owners who want to do squats, pull-ups, and other exercises without the limitations of having a wall right behind the rack will appreciate this unit’s unique split-stringer mounting design.
Why we like Rogue Fitness RML-90SLIM Door Mount Fold Back Rack as best door-mounted
Known for producing high-quality dumbbells and kettlebells, Rogue designed another winner in the RML-90SLIM Door Mount Rack. Both budget- and footprint-friendly, this USA-made rack mounts around a door frame, giving you the ability to perform exercises such as kipping pull-ups without the limitations of having a wall right behind the rack. Plus, the open doorway concept allows you to set your weight bench at an incline—something you can’t do with a wall-mounted rack.
“The ability to change the position of the bench, or any piece of equipment, introduces variation to movements that could stimulate muscles in different ways. The incline bench press is just one example. Research has supported the notion that a slight incline challenges the pectorals (chest) and deltoids (shoulders) in different ways versus the flat bench press, for example.” (5)
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
Featuring 3” x 3” 11-gauge steel uprights with laser-cut numbers, the RML-90SLIM utilizes a split-stringer design, making it compatible with standard door widths of 28”, 30”, 32”, and 36”. Each stringer measures 19.5” wide and can be adjusted in 2” increments.
Once the rack is mounted, you can use the hinge-and-pin system to fold the uprights back, away from the door frame, when not in use. When folded, the RML-90SLIM only extends 5 inches from the mounting surface. This should provide you ample room to move around without feeling restricted.
For added value, Rogue designed this door-mounted rack with its Monster Lite Adjustable Pull-Up Bar. The bar attaches via a new pin and swing-down method that locks it into position and makes it easier to disassemble after your workout.
Unfortunately, this rack doesn’t give you as much versatility or expandability as other options. Due to its door-mount design, you can’t add a cable pulley system. Still, for $575, you get a high-quality foldable rack made from heavy-duty materials that should hold up well over time. And for just $25 more, you can upgrade to numbered uprights, adding a nice visual and practical touch to your RML-90SLIM.
Specs
| Price | $575 or $600 |
| Footprint | 90.375” H x 49.1875” W x 13” D (working)90.375” H x 49.1875” W x 5” D (folded) |
| Weight capacity | 1,000 pounds |
| Material | 11-gauge steel |
Benefits of folding squat racks
It’s no secret that the main benefit of a folding squat rack is the ability to significantly reduce its footprint. However, there are other reasons to add one to your home gym setup.
Space-saving design
Folding squat racks offer a compact solution for home gyms or spaces with limited room. When not in use, they can be easily folded up against the wall, allowing you to reclaim floor space for other activities.
Versatility
These racks often come with multiple attachment points and accessories, enabling a variety of exercises beyond just squats. They can be used for pull-ups, bench presses, and more, making them versatile additions to any home gym setup.
Convenience
Folding squat racks provide the convenience of being able to work out at home without sacrificing the benefits of a full gym setup. Users can save time and money by avoiding trips to the gym while still enjoying a comprehensive strength training routine.
Building strength and muscle
Folding squat racks provide a platform for various strength-building exercises, such as squats, bench presses, and pull-ups. By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you can target major muscle groups like the legs, chest, back, and arms for overall strength and muscle development.
How we tested the best folding squat racks
To put together our list of the best folding squat racks, our team tested more than a dozen models. We then evaluated each rack on factors like performance, construction, size, and customization options.
Below is a breakdown of the factors that go into our scoring process. You can also read more about our strength equipment testing methodology here.
Performance—30%
Nobody wants a squat rack that’s unstable or unreliable. We prefer frames made from 11-gauge steel since they support large amounts of weight and are generally the most durable. Our team evaluated the capabilities of each rack’s accessories and how well the materials hold up with repeated use.
We also analyzed the following criteria:
- Material quality
- Durability
- Versatility
Customer experience—30%
From free shipping to lifetime warranties, there are many ways a manufacturer can provide added value and create a positive purchase experience. Part of that includes making the setup process as painless as possible by providing easy-to-understand instructions and the tools for setting up your folding squat rack.
Besides those aspects, here are some other customer-oriented factors we take into consideration:
- Warranty
- Shipping costs
- Equipment setup
- Packaging and delivery
- Customer service
Value—15%
The best folding squat racks provide sufficient features at a fair cost. We gave higher scores to models that offer versatility and build quality in a well-priced (and footprint-friendly) package.
Size—15%
We evaluated each squat rack’s footprint to see how much room it commands when in use and when folded. The best space-saving designs earned higher scores since they give you far more flexibility.
Extra options—10%
We assigned higher scores to racks that are compatible with accessories like dip stations and landmine attachments. We also based our customization rating on whether you can choose different colors, heights, and depths.
FAQs
Are folding squat racks safe?
Folding squat racks are safe when properly installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the rack is securely anchored to a stable surface and check its weight capacity to ensure you’re working with an appropriate load.
Are folding squat racks worth it?
Folding squat racks are worth it if you have limited room or need the flexibility to reclaim space when not in use. They offer convenience without sacrificing safety or functionality, making them a valuable investment for home gym owners.
What is the best folding squat rack?
The best folding squat rack depends on your training needs, budget, and space constraints. We chose the PRx Profile Full Folding Cage as our top overall pick due to its excellent build quality, high weight capacity, and innovative design. However, the REP PR-4100 is also an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option.
How much does a folding squat rack cost?
While folding squat rack prices vary depending on the brand, features, and customization options, they generally start around $400-$500. Some higher-end racks, such as the PRx Profile Folding Full Cage, cost over $2,000.
Our experts
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, is an internationally recognized subject matter expert and speaker and performance coach. Through his facilitation and online resources, he works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson and more to help busy executives all over the world, develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally.
Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS
Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS, is an associate professor of health and human sciences at Loyola Marymount University. She received her Ph.D. in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science in 2015 from the University of New Mexico, with a specialization in Exercise Science and Biomechanics. She has been a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist from the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2014.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Amanda Dvorak
Amanda Dvorak is a Fortune Recommends writer and editor. A garage gym owner who is passionate about working out and healthy living, she has four years of experience writing product reviews for fitness and nutrition websites. Amanda is currently studying to become a certified personal trainer through the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Stephen Sheehan, CPT
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Stephen Sheehan is an ISSA-certified personal trainer and nutritionist who uses his fitness expertise to review products for Fortune Recommends™. A two-time University of Florida graduate, he has a diverse writing and editing background that’s primarily focused on sports, health and fitness, and e-commerce content. His work has been featured in Runner’s World and Keto Magazine, as well as Bulletproof, Breaking Muscle, and YouFit Gyms.