As a certified personal trainer and longtime lifter, there’s nothing I enjoy more than loading up a barbell and cranking out a set of heavy squats or deadlifts with my favorite song blasting through my headphones. Just like selecting the right playlist can set the proper tone for your workouts, choosing the right barbell can set the stage for effective strength- and muscle-building sessions.
With different build materials, diameters, weight capacities, and uses, it’s critical to pick a bar that aligns with your training style, fitness goals, and budget. To help you find the best barbell for your home gym, our team of experts researched and tested more than 100 models on key factors like tensile strength, knurling, weight capacity, and build quality.
Best barbell overall
Durable, dependable, and versatile, the REP Fitness Colorado Bar earned our pick as best overall barbell. It boasts a 1,500-pound weight capacity and comes in two finish options. Learn more about our top choice below.
Our picks for the best barbells
- Best overall: REP Fitness Colorado Bar
- Best multi-purpose: Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell
- Best trap bar: Titan Fitness Rackable Hex Trap Bar
- Best power bar: REP Fitness Double Black Diamond Power Bar
- Best safety squat bar: Bells of Steel SS4
- Best Olympic: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar
- Best CrossFit: Synergee Games Barbell
- Best for women: Rogue Fitness Bella Bar
- Best budget: CAP Barbell The Beast
Compare the best barbells
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| REP Fitness Colorado Bar | Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell | Titan Fitness Rackable Hex Trap Bar | REP Fitness Double Black Diamond Power Bar | Bells of Steel SS4 | Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar | Synergee Games Barbell | Rogue Fitness Bella Bar | CAP Barbell The Beast | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Price | 4.7 | $270-$280 | $330 | $300-$400 | $320 | $980 | $194.95-$214.95 | $235-$330 | $150 |
| Tensile strength | 190 KSI | N/A | N/a | 200 KSI | 100,000 PSI | N/A | 190,000 PSI | 190,000-200,000 PSI | 110,000 PSI |
| Shaft diameter | 28.5mm | 30mm | 32mm | 29mm | 32mm | 28mm | 25mm (15kg bar), 28mm (20kg bar) | 25mm | 30mm |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 lbs. | 750 lbs. (45-grade steel), 1,000 lbs. (alloy steel) | 800 lbs. | 1,500 lbs. | 1,500 lbs. | N/A | 1,500 lbs. | N/A | 1,200 lbs. |
Best barbell overall: REP Fitness Colorado Bar
Key product features
What you should know
The REP Fitness Colorado Bar is our pick for best overall barbell thanks to its excellent weight capacity, quality knurling, and versatility.
- The Colorado Bar comes in chrome or Cerakote finishes, the latter providing superior protection against scratches and corrosion.
- The chrome version of this barbell costs $310; the Cerakote version costs slightly more at $300.
- This highly customizable, 20 kg (44.1 lbs) barbell will work well for home gym owners who enjoy different training modalities.
Why we like REP Fitness Colorado Bar as best overall
With the PR–4000 headlining our best squat racks list, REP Fitness once again finds itself at the front of the line with the well-engineered Colorado Bar. Available in chrome or Cerakote finishes, this 20 kg (44.1 lbs), multi-purpose bar boasts a 1,500-pound weight capacity and a tensile strength rating of 190 PSI that earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from our testing team. This makes the bar well-suited for heavy compound lifts like squats and deadlifts—both of which are effective at building overall and lower-body strength. (1)
While the 86.6-inch bar does feature dual International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) knurl markings, it’s not just built for powerlifting. Its medium-depth, volcano-style knurling provides a good grip without tearing up your hands on high-rep workouts, too. Plus, the Colorado Bar uses composite bushings that provide a smooth, consistent rotation and reduce noise when the bar is dropped.
Our team gave the Colorado Bar 4.5 out of 5 stars for construction, and we love that you can customize the bar to suit your preferences. For the same price of $300, you can go with a hard chrome finish or you can choose between a black, white, blue, green, or red Cerakote shaft with Duracoat sleeves. The sleeves are finished using a chemical process that hardens the outside of the steel and changes it to a smooth black finish.
Based on its price point, build quality, and versatility, the Colorado Bar earned 4 out of 5 stars for value from our team. While we’d like center knurling, we know it’s hard to find a complaint with a barbell that’s built for fitness enthusiasts of all types.
Specs
| Price | $300 |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 pounds |
| Tensile strength | 190 KSI |
| Length | 86.6 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 16.1 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 28.5 millimeters |
Best multi-purpose barbell: Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell
Key product features
What you should know
The Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell comes in two versions, each with different build materials and weight capacities.
- Our product tester rated this barbell’s knurling 4 out of 5 stars, noting that it wasn’t too sharp or harsh on her hands.
- The 45-grade steel version of this barbell costs $270. The alloy steel version costs $280, offering another 250 pounds in weight capacity for just an additional $10.
- This multi-purpose bar can work for both beginners and seasoned lifters—more advanced athletes can opt for the alloy steel bar and its superior weight capacity.
Why we like Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell as best multi-purpose
Major Fitness’s PLM03 was our budget-friendly pick for the best home gyms, and their barbell is another winner. The Home Gym Barbell is available in 45-grade steel or alloy steel versions and boasts weight capacities of 750 or 1,000 pounds, depending on which material you choose.
The 45-grade steel option comes with six bearings, which help provide a smooth spin. This version has a lower weight capacity (750 pounds) than the alloy steel version, which has eight bearings and a weight capacity of 1,000 pounds.
No matter which material you choose, you can opt for a silver hard-chrome plated finish or a black Cerakote finish. If you have an outdoor or non-climate-controlled gym, Cerakote will hold up better against the elements.
Our product tester put the Home Gym Barbell through a series of military presses, squats, and Romanian deadlifts, rating her workout experience 4 out of 5 stars.
“This barbell ticked the boxes. When I do back squats, I like twisting the bar until my elbows lock in place. I could feel that the spin was smooth when I did that.”
Team Product Tester
The 1.2-millimeter deep knurling also earned a 4 out of 5 rating from our tester.
“During deadlifts, I felt like I could get a secure grip without feeling like my hands were being cut up,” she explained. “However, when I’m lifting for strength and not reps, I’d prefer some more aggressive knurling.”
For under $300, this bar presents solid value, especially since you can tailor it to your liking. Unfortunately, Major Fitness only warranties this product for one year, which is far shorter than other manufacturers.
Specs
| Price | $270 (45-grade steel), $280 (alloy steel) |
| Weight capacity | 750 pounds (45-grade steel), 1,000 pounds (alloy steel) |
| Tensile strength | N/A |
| Length | 86.6 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 15.9 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 30 millimeters |
Best trap bar: Titan Fitness Rackable Hex Trap Bar
Key product features
What you should know
This rackable trap bar features 1.5-inch square frame tubing and a raised set of handles that stand 7.5 inches from the floor.
- Our product tester rated this trap bar 4.5 out of 5 stars for build quality, noting that it has held up well after years of heavy use.
- The Rackable Hex Trap Bar costs $330, which we consider a decent price. However, Titan only includes one year of warranty coverage.
- If you want to perform trap bar deadlifts and get more use out of your squat track, this is a great option.
Why we like Titan Fitness Rackable Hex Trap Bar as best trap bar
A staple exercise for many athletes, the trap bar deadlift is a great compound movement that can help you build lower-body strength and power. However, don’t assume that hex bars are exclusively made for deadlifting. With the Titan Fitness Rackable Hex Trap Bar, you can perform a variety of exercises, including rack pulls, shoulder presses, and lunges.
“The beauty of a hex bar, with its unique shape and design, is how it affects the mechanics of the lifts themselves. For some, exercises like barbell deadlifts can be uncomfortable and put undue stress on the back, but changing the bar to shift the weight may improve the feel and ability to perform the exercise,” says Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD.
“It’s not just deadlifts, however. The hex bar can be used for so many different movements and exercises, for a unique feel and motion. One of my favorite ways to use it is for farmer’s carries—but it can be used for other exercises, too. In fact, one research study found the hex bar to allow lifters to increase the speed of the lift, resulting in improved outcomes,” Mohr continued. (2)
“While many advanced lifters like to include a trap bar deadlift in their routine, beginners will also find it useful as well. Due to the shape of the bar, lifters are able to maintain proper form throughout the lift—something that can help prevent injuries,” says Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS.
Weighing 60 pounds and featuring a footprint of 7.5” H x 85.5” L x 28.5” W, this heavy-duty specialty bar has a loadable sleeve length of 16 inches. This is on the longer side compared to other trap bars on the market.
“For a bar that can be used in your squat rack, this has a good amount of sleeve length to really load up the bar and push yourself to hit a PR,” our product tester explained.
Earning 4.5 out of 5 stars for performance, this $330 hex trap bar held four 45-pound bumper plates on each side with room for a fifth.
“The bar felt balanced and allowed me to perform a movement like walking lunges without worrying about the balance component much at all.”
Team Product Tester
Unfortunately, the knurling didn’t make as strong of an impression, earning just 3 out of 5 stars. Although Titan lists the Rackable Hex Trap Bar as having a medium-diamond knurl pattern, our tester described it as “either an extremely passive volcano or an aggressive hill pattern.”
Specs
| Price | $330 |
| Weight capacity | 800 pounds |
| Weight | 60 pounds |
| Dimensions | 7.5” H x 85.5” L x 28.5” W |
| Loadable sleeve length | 16 inches |
| Handle diameter | 32 millimeters |
| Sleeve diameter | 48 millimeters |
Best power bar: REP Fitness Double Black Diamond Power Bar
Key product features
What you should know
The Double Black Diamond Power Bar has deep, mountain-style knurling, IPF-standard knurl markings, and smooth sleeves for easy loading and unloading of weight plates.
- Our product tester gave the Double Black Diamond Power Bar a knurling score of 4.5 out of 5, noting that it’ll work well for lifters who prefer an aggressive knurl pattern.
- The Cerakote version of this barbell costs $300. You can also choose a hybrid stainless steel/hard chrome version for $350, or a fully stainless steel bar for $400.
- Built for heavy bench presses, deadlifts, and squats, the Double Black Diamond is an excellent training tool for powerlifters and strength-focused athletes.
Why we like REP Fitness Double Black Diamond Power Bar as best power bar
Taking top honors in our best power bar category, the Double Black Diamond Power Bar from REP Fitness boasts all the qualities we look for in a bar designed for performing deadlifts, squats, and bench presses.
A 29-millimeter shaft diameter falls in line with the standard for this type of specialty bar. This bar also has IPF standard knurl markings, friction-welded sleeves, and well-designed end caps that add to its overall aesthetic.
During testing, Fortune Recommends editor and home gym owner Amanda Dvorak appreciated the Double Black Diamond Power Bar’s beveled ends, which made loading plates a breeze since she didn’t have to perfectly align the plate inserts with the end of the sleeve. Overall, the Double Black Diamond earned 4 out of 5 stars from our team for construction.
In addition, this bar has the tensile strength (200 PSI) to support heavy training sessions focused on the three core power lifts. Plus, you shouldn’t have to worry about maintaining control of the bar, since it features aggressive, mountain-style knurling. This type of knurl pattern is common in power bars since it offers a superior grip for deadlifts.
Our team rated the knurling 4.5 out of 5 stars, noting that REP uses higher teeth per inch (TPI) than other companies. This means the mountain pattern is less pointy (sharp) than what you’d find on similar bars.
Although the Double Black Diamond only earned 3 out of 5 stars for versatility, you can customize it to your liking. You can choose between a Cerakote or stainless steel shaft. You can also choose between Duracoat, hard chrome, or stainless steel sleeves.
Depending on the shaft and sleeve materials, this bar can cost as little as $300 or as much as $400. No matter which combination you choose, the Double Black Diamond Power Bar offers excellent bang for your buck—it earned 4.5 out of 5 stars for value from our team.
Specs
| Price | $300-$400 |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 pounds |
| Tensile strength | 200 KSI |
| Length | 86.6 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 16.3 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 29 millimeters |
Best safety squat bar: Bells of Steel SS4
Key product features
What you should know
The SS4 Safety Squat Bar can help you break through plateaus and work around injuries by minimizing your upper-body involvement.
- The SS4 allows you to perform more than 10 exercises, including front squats, good mornings, lunges, and JM presses.
- The SS4 Safety Squat Bar costs $320 and comes with straight handles. You can also purchase spider handles for $55, seal row handles for $35, chain handles for $40, or an extra pair of straight handles for $30.
- Bells of Steel designed this specialty bar for users who want to be able to squat despite upper-body injuries or mobility issues.
Why we like Bells of Steel SS4 as best safety squat bar
After earning a spot on our best weight bench list, Bells of Steel is back with another excellent strength training product: the SS4 Safety Squat Bar. Unlike a traditional Olympic barbell, a safety squat bar features a pad that rests on your neck and shoulders and handles that you grip to maintain control.
“Safety squat bars allow many lifters to feel more comfortable with the movement when compared to a traditional bar back squat.”
Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, Fortune Recommends Advisor
This type of specialty bar provides support for lifters with mobility issues or those who are working their way back from injury. “It allows lifters to maintain a more upright position, which takes pressure off the lower back,” says Roper. (3)
Safety squat bars are also effective for training your glutes. Compared to high-bar squats, safety-bar squats produce more gluteus maximus activation. (4)
“While lifters tend to use less resistance during the safety bar squat, due to the construction of the bar, you can activate your gluteus maximus more compared to high- and low-bar squats. Be cautious of form, as some lifters increase their risk of knee injury when using the safety squat bar,” says Roper.
With an ergonomically designed pad that rests comfortably on your shoulders, the SS4 could allow you to perform pain-free squats, as well as a variety of other exercises. You can use this bar for front squats, good mornings, lunges, and split squats. Or, you can combine it with resistance bands, chains, or a plyo box for more creative workouts.
Priced at $320, the SS4 comes with straight knurled handles that provide a solid grip. However, Bells of Steel also offers other types of handles. You can buy spider handles ($55), seal row handles ($35), chain handles ($40), or an additional pair of straight handles ($30).
With a max capacity of 1,500 pounds, the SS4 can handle heavy weights without issue. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, you should also feel confident that it’ll hold up well with repeated use.
Specs
| Price | $320 |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 pounds |
| Tensile strength | 100,000 PSI |
| Length | 86.61 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 11.81 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 32 millimeters |
Best Olympic barbell: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar
Key product features
What you should know
Eleiko has earned a reputation for making elite fitness equipment. Their IWF Weightlifting Training Bar has great spin, making it ideal for Olympic weightlifters.
- One of our product testers described this as his “all-time favorite bar” due to its spin, whip, and bounce.
- At $980, this barbell is priced at the top of the market.
- If you value high-quality construction and best-of-the-best performance, this durable bar will cater to all your weightlifting needs.
Why we like Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar as best Olympic
Available in 15- and 20-kilogram versions, the IWF Weightlifting Training Bar is made by Eleiko—a Swedish company known for designing high-end, premium-priced fitness equipment. One of our product testers, an Olympian weightlifter, noted that the bar’s price tag, while higher than others, is justified.
While the cost certainly can’t be ignored, neither can Eleiko’s attention to detail and overall build quality. With a controlled spin, excellent whip, and grippy knurling, this model has all the features lifters look for in a high-performing Olympic barbell.
And, there’s no need to worry about this bar’s durability. A tensile strength rating of 215,000 PSI puts it well above the other bars on this list. As a result, it earned a perfect score in this category.
Made with needle bearings that provide tight tolerances and a controlled spin, Eleiko designed this barbell with 1.2-millimeter deep knurling across the barbell. While it’s grippy enough for movements like the snatch and the clean and jerk, it’s not too aggressive for daily training.
“It holds chalk very well, and it gives you a great grip without destroying your hands.”
Team Product Tester
Keep in mind that the 20-kg version does have center knurling. Depending on the types of lifts you perform, this could either be helpful or a hindrance. For example, center knurling can be useful for back squats since it helps the bar stay in place better. On the other hand, center knurling would be an annoyance for movements like the clean and jerk, where the barbell comes in contact with your chest.
“It’s important to consider how you will use the bar. If you’re more likely to back squat regularly than clean and jerk, center knurling might actually be a fantastic addition,” says Mohr. “I’ve lifted consistently for over 30 years but can probably count the times I’ve done clean and jerks in my home gym on one hand, if even that, but I do back squat much more regularly. That lift is appropriate for some, but not everyone.”
Overall, this barbell is built with high-end materials and backed by a 12-year warranty. If you have the budget for a bar of this caliber, you can feel confident about getting a great return on your investment.
Specs
| Price | $980 |
| Weight capacity | N/A |
| Tensile strength | N/A |
| Length | 86.61 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 16.34 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 28 millimeters |
Best CrossFit barbell: Synergee Games Barbell
Key product features
What you should know
The Synergree Games Barbell comes in two different sizes. Here’s what you need to know about this ultra-responsive, Cerakote-finished bar.
- The 15-kilogram bar has a 25-millimeter shaft diameter and a loadable sleeve length of 13 inches.
- Meanwhile, the 20-kilogram bar has a wider shaft (28 millimeters) and a longer loadable sleeve length of 16.4 inches.
- There is a $20 price difference between the two sizes. The 15-kg bar costs $194.95; the 20-kg bar costs $214.95.
- Designed with CrossFit athletes in mind, this provides a more affordable alternative to the Cerakote Rogue Ohio Bar.
Why we like Synergee Games Barbell as best for CrossFit
Constructed with high-quality materials—including a Cerakote-coated shaft—this barbell from Synergee boasts exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The Cerakote coating not only enhances the barbell’s longevity but also provides a vibrant and eye-catching appearance that stands out in any gym environment—especially if you choose the red finish.
Available in both 15- and 20-kilogram versions, this bar has a solid tensile strength rating of 190,000 PSI and a weight capacity of 1,500 pounds. Synergee uses five needle bearings in each sleeve, leading to a faster-spinning sleeve. This is particularly useful for Olympic weightlifting and CrossFit workouts (though not particularly helpful for powerlifters). Overall, this bar earned 4.5 out of 5 stars for construction.
While most multi-purpose barbells have a shaft diameter of 28.5 millimeters, this bar is slightly thinner at 28 millimeters. The 15-kg version has a 25-millimeter shaft diameter, which is typical for a bar of this size. Our product tester rated the knurling 4 out of 5 stars, noting that it isn’t as aggressive because the Cerakote finish fills in many of the holes and reduces the overall sharpness.
Priced around $200, this barbell is a cost-effective option for CrossFit enthusiasts who don’t have the financial flexibility to afford a higher-end bar.
Specs
| Price | $194.95-$214.95 |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 lbs. |
| Tensile strength | 190,000 PSI |
| Length | 79.13 inches (15kg bar), 86.36 inches (20kg bar) |
| Loadable sleeve length | 13 inches (15kg bar), 16.4 inches (20kg bar) |
| Shaft diameter | 25 millimeters (15kg bar), 28 millimeters (20kg bar) |
Best barbell for women: Rogue Fitness Bella Bar
Key product features
What you should know
The Bella Bar has been utilized in women’s CrossFit competitions for years. With a tensile strength of 200,000 PSI, it’s built to handle heavy lifts and whatever else you throw its way.
- The 25-millimeter grip makes this the ideal bar for people with small hands.
- Our product tester rated this bar 4.5 out of 5 stars for value, noting that its $235 price is appropriate based on its build quality.
- Female athletes will appreciate the Bella Bar’s excellent construction and high degree of versatility, as it can be utilized for multiple training styles.
Why we like Rogue Fitness Bella Bar as best for women
Offering an excellent combination of quality craftsmanship, functionality, and aesthetics, the Bella Bar is the gold standard for women’s barbells. Crafted by Rogue Fitness, this USA-made barbell is designed to meet the specific needs of female athletes with a 200,000 PSI tensile strength rating and a 25-millimeter diameter shaft, which is ideal for people with small hands.
“It’s great to have equipment designed specifically for women. Most exercise machines and tools are designed for those who are taller, larger, and maybe have bigger hands (and bodies). The Bella Bar is unique in that it’s just as strong, with 200,00 PSI tensile strength rating, yet has a smaller diameter to fit a specific niche,” says Mohr.
Constructed from high-strength steel, the Bella Bar has one of Rogue’s highest durability ratings at F6-R. The F-rating scale assesses how well a bar will hold up against oxidation and corrosion, with an F8 rating at the top of the scale. With a hardening treatment on top of the zinc coating, the Bella Bar earned 4.5 out of 5 stars for durability from our team.
One of the standout features of the Bella Bar is its knurling. The fine, non-abrasive knurl pattern provides an excellent grip without being overly aggressive, making it comfortable for a variety of lifts. Two of our product testers used the Bella Bar with and without chalk and had no issues maintaining control or a firm grip.
This barbell is not only functional but versatile. It features dual knurl marks, allowing users to easily identify grip positions for Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting. On the other hand, no center knurl makes it well-suited for CrossFitters.
“Sometimes under appreciated, having the knurl marks for grip position identification is a great advantage, particularly for beginners. It will help ensure correct form throughout these complex movements, reducing risk of injury.”
Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS, Fortune Recommends Advisor
Rogue also paid attention to the finer details of the Bella Bar. The barbell includes quality bronze bushings that provide smooth and consistent spin for dynamic movements like cleans and snatches. Furthermore, its signature Rogue logo and distinctive end caps add a nice aesthetic touch.
From a price perspective, the Bella Bar can cost as little as $235 or as much as $330. That all depends on which materials and finishes you choose. For example, the standard version finished with black zinc costs $235. If you have an outdoor gym or train in a non-climate-controlled space, you can opt to spend $295 on a Cerakote finish, which will protect against rust and corrosion.
Rogue also offers the Bella Bar in stainless steel for $330—a great option if you’re looking for maximum durability.
Specs
| Price | $235-$330 |
| Weight capacity | N/A |
| Tensile strength | 200,000 PSI |
| Length | 79.13 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 13 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 25 millimeters |
Best budget barbell: CAP Barbell The Beast
Key product features
What you should know
One of several popular models from CAP Barbell, The Beast is a no-frills barbell that won’t take a big bite out of your home gym budget.
- Built from solid cold-rolled steel, The Beast has medium-depth diamond knurling that helps you maintain control of the bar.
- While The Beast has a list price of $150, you can routinely find it on sale on Amazon for less than that. Even at full price, it’s still a solid value.
- The Beast is a great money-saving solution for Olympic weightlifters since it does not have a center knurl.
Why we like CAP Barbell The Beast as best budget
The Beast Olympic barbell from CAP Barbell is a solid choice for lifters looking to stay within a tight budget. Although it has a lower tensile strength rating (110,000 PSI) than what we’d like to see, this barbell still supports up to 1,200 pounds. Considering it has a list price of just $150, that’s an impressive weight capacity.
Built from cold-rolled steel with a black phosphate finish and polished chrome sleeves, this 44-pound barbell has a loadable sleeve length of 15 inches. This should provide sufficient room to load any two-inch Olympic weight plates on the bar. The smooth rotation of the bushing-loaded sleeves reduces friction during lifts, promoting fluid movement and enhancing the overall lifting experience.
Featuring medium-depth diamond knurling, The Beast has a shaft diameter of 28.5 millimeters. This should make it comfortable for all types of training, as this falls right in between what you see for power bars and Olympic weightlifting bars.
With no center knurl, this barbell is ideal for users who don’t want to worry about tearing up their back or chest during training sessions.
While this bar may not boast the tensile strength rating or customizability of other models, you still get solid value. At the very least, The Beast can serve as your main strength training tool until you’ve grown your home gym budget enough to afford a higher-end barbell.
Specs
| Price | $150 |
| Weight capacity | 1,200 pounds |
| Tensile strength | 110,000 PSI |
| Length | 86 inches |
| Loadable sleeve length | 15 inches |
| Shaft diameter | 30 millimeters |
How to take care of a barbell
Taking proper care of your barbell is essential to ensure its longevity and performance, especially if you plan to use it frequently. Here are a few ways to show your bar the love and care it deserves.
Clean it regularly
After each use, wipe down the barbell with a clean, dry cloth to remove sweat and chalk buildup. Periodically, use a brush with mild soap and water to clean the knurling and sleeves, preventing rust and corrosion.
Store it properly
Store the barbell horizontally on a rack or holder, preferably in a dry and well-ventilated area. Avoid leaning it against walls or leaving it on the floor, as this can lead to bending and damage.
Inspect it for damage
Regularly inspect the barbell for signs of wear, including bending, chipping, or rust. If you notice any damage, address it immediately to prevent further deterioration and ensure safety during use.
Keep the sleeves lubricated
Apply a thin layer of lubricant to the sleeves periodically to maintain smooth rotation and prevent seizing. Use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for barbells to avoid attracting dust and debris.
Avoid dropping it on hard surfaces
Minimize dropping the barbell on hard surfaces, especially without bumper plates, as this can cause damage to the sleeves and bearings. Invest in quality bumper plates and practice controlled lowering to extend the lifespan of your barbell.
How to choose the best barbell for you
You need the right tools to accomplish your strength- and muscle-building goals. From your training style and budget to the build materials and specs, here are key factors to consider as you weigh your barbell options.
Training style
Consider your fitness objectives, whether it’s powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, general strength training, or CrossFit. There are different types of bars designed for specific purposes, so knowing your goals will help narrow down your options.
Specs
Take note of key specifications such as length, loadable sleeve length, diameter, weight capacity, and knurling pattern. For example, Olympic barbells typically weigh 20kg for men and 15kg for women, with a diameter of 28mm. Powerlifting bars typically have a thicker diameter and higher tensile strength.
Build materials and construction
Look for barbells made from high-quality materials such as steel or chrome, with a durable coating to resist rust and corrosion. Check for smooth and consistent knurling for a secure grip, and ensure the sleeves spin smoothly for Olympic lifts.
Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to invest in a barbell and balance it with the bar’s expected lifespan. While higher-quality barbells may come with a higher price tag, they often offer better performance and durability, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
How we tested the best barbells
Our team has collectively researched and tested over 100 barbells, putting them through a rigorous evaluation process to test their construction, versatility, durability, and more. We assign scores ranging from 1 to 5 stars across key categories, considering that some areas matter more than others.
Below is a breakdown of what factors go into our scoring process. You can read more about our strength equipment testing methodology here.
Performance—30%
Barbells should have the requisite tensile strength to support heavy weights. They should also have a knurl pattern that allows you to maintain control during your lifts. We assess everything from the build materials to the design and functionality to determine which bar reigns supreme in specific categories.
Here are the main factors our testers look for:
- Material quality
- Durability
- Versatility
Customer experience—30%
Nothing’s more frustrating than waiting for a piece of workout equipment to arrive only to find that it’s been damaged during shipping. From a quick and painless packaging and delivery process to having any problems resolved promptly, customers want to feel confident that they’ll be taken care of.
Here are the different factors we consider when evaluating the customer experience.
- Warranty
- Shipping costs
- Equipment setup
- Packaging and delivery
- Customer service
Value—15%
Does a barbell’s build quality and functionality align with its price tag? Getting great bang for your buck is important, especially if you’re shopping on a limited budget.
Size—15%
From the shaft diameter to the loadable sleeve length, size matters. We also evaluate each barbell’s length, weight, and overall dimensions during our testing process.
Extra options—10%
Can you customize your bar with different finish or color options? Does the manufacturer offer packages that pair a barbell with a weight bench or collars? More options mean more opportunities to tailor your barbell and home gym setup to your liking.
FAQs
How much do barbells cost?
Barbells can range in price from $50 to around $1,000, depending on factors like quality, brand, and weight capacity. In general, you can find a solid multi-purpose barbell for around $200-$500.
Does whip matter in a barbell?
Whip, or the flexibility of a barbell, can affect the feel of lifts, especially in Olympic weightlifting. Powerlifters typically prefer a stiffer bar with less whip for heavier lifts.
Do barbells build more muscle than dumbbells?
Both barbells and dumbbells can be effective for muscle building, but barbells are often favored for compound lifts that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, potentially leading to more overall muscle growth. However, a 2020 study showed that training with free weights or machines resulted in similar increases in muscle mass and strength. (5)
What does a barbell’s tensile strength mean?
A barbell’s tensile strength refers to its ability to withstand bending and breaking under load. Higher tensile strength indicates a more durable and reliable barbell, capable of supporting heavier weights without warping or snapping. The standard tensile strength rating for most barbells ranges between 190,000-205,000 PSI.
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