We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Olympic Bars 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CAP Barbell Olympic 7 ft Bar 44 lb, 28mm Grip Diameter, Chrome - New Version (OBIS-85C)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,188
Bar Weight

Most important from
2448 reviews

Bar Weight
Size and weight are exactly as described, performing well so far.

The CAP Barbell Olympic 7 ft Bar, weighing 44 lbs, features a 28mm grip diameter and is designed for serious weightlifting. It is constructed from solid cold rolled steel with a chrome finish, providing durability and a polished look. With a length of 2185mm (approximately 7 feet), it fits standard Olympic weight plates with 2-inch holes and supports up to 500 pounds, making it suitable for heavy lifting exercises, including powerlifting and Olympic lifting technique building.

The bar's tensile strength is rated at 54,000 PSI, indicating good resilience under stress, though it may not match the higher tensile strength found in premium bars which could be a consideration for advanced lifters seeking maximum durability. The medium-depth knurling, including center knurl, is designed to offer a secure grip without being overly aggressive on the hands, providing comfort during various lifting routines. Additionally, the rotating sleeves reduce pressure on the forearms and wrists, enhancing lifting comfort and performance.

However, the 30-day warranty may seem limited compared to other brands which offer extended warranties, indicating a potential area for improvement. CAP Barbell's long-standing reputation in the fitness industry underscores its reliability and value. This bar is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate lifters looking for a versatile, well-constructed Olympic bar at an affordable price.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,188
Bar Weight

Most important from
2448 reviews

Bar Weight
Size and weight are exactly as described, performing well so far.
#2

CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome - New Version (OBIS-85)

Rating
10.0
Knurling
Sleeve Rotation

Most important from
1997 reviews

Knurling
The knurling is perfectly designed, offering just the right amount of grip without being overly abrasive on my hands.
Sleeve Rotation
The smooth rotation of the sleeves has been a game-changer, ensuring efficient and safe execution of my lifts.

The CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar is a solid choice for both novice and experienced lifters looking to perform a variety of strength training exercises. Made from cold-rolled steel with a chrome finish, it boasts a robust tensile strength of 63,800 PSI, making it suitable for heavy lifting with a weight limit of 500 pounds. Measuring 7 feet in length and featuring a 30mm grip diameter, this bar is designed to accommodate standard Olympic weight plates, ensuring versatility in your workout routine.

One of the highlights is the medium-depth knurling, which provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive, making it comfortable for extended use. The rotating sleeves equipped with bushings reduce strain on the wrists during lifts, enhancing the lifting experience. Its size and design make it ideal for powerlifting and Olympic lifting, allowing users to target various muscle groups effectively.

Some users may find the weight of 35.26 pounds to be on the heavier side for beginners who are just starting with lifting. While the chrome finish is visually appealing, it may require additional care to prevent rusting if not maintained properly. The CAP Barbell Classic Olympic Bar combines strength and functionality, making it suitable for a wide range of lifters. Its solid construction and thoughtful design features provide a reliable tool for achieving fitness goals, though beginners might need some time to get accustomed to its weight and handling.

Rating
10.0
Knurling
Sleeve Rotation

Most important from
1997 reviews

Knurling
The knurling is perfectly designed, offering just the right amount of grip without being overly abrasive on my hands.
Sleeve Rotation
The smooth rotation of the sleeves has been a game-changer, ensuring efficient and safe execution of my lifts.
#3

LIONSCOOL 7ft Olympic Bar for Weightlifting and Power Lifting, 2 Inch Barbell Bar for Squats, Deadlifts, Presses, Rows and Curls, 500LBS Weight Capacity

The LIONSCOOL 7ft Olympic Bar is designed as a reliable and economical option for beginners in weightlifting and powerlifting. With a bar length of 86.6 inches and a weight of 40 pounds, it offers a balanced size for various exercises such as squats, deadlifts, presses, rows, and curls. The bar has a medium depth knurling with a 1.5mm diamond pattern and a 4.7-inch center knurl, providing a secure grip without being too harsh on the hands. This feature is particularly beneficial during back squats, as it helps the bar stay in place on the shoulders.

The bar's 28.5mm handgrip diameter is standard for Olympic bars, ensuring it feels comfortable and familiar to most users. The 500-pound weight capacity and 100,000 PSI tensile strength indicate that the bar can handle significant loads, although it may not be suitable for more advanced lifters who require higher capacities and strength ratings. The black e-coat finish not only gives the bar a sleek appearance but also provides excellent resistance to oxidation and wear, ensuring durability over time. The sleeves, equipped with ball bearings and oil-impregnated brass bushings, offer smooth rotation and stability, which is a step up from traditional bushing-only models.

However, the 40-pound weight is slightly less than the standard Olympic bar weight of 45 pounds, which might require some adjustment for those accustomed to standard bars. Additionally, while the bar's whip and flex have been tested, more experienced lifters might find it less responsive compared to higher-end models. The LIONSCOOL 7ft Olympic Bar is a strong contender for beginners or home gym users looking for a durable and efficient barbell with a lifetime warranty backing its quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Olympic Bars

Choosing the right Olympic bar is crucial for your weightlifting or powerlifting routine. The right bar can enhance your performance, ensure safety, and provide durability. When selecting an Olympic bar, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
Bar LengthThe length of an Olympic bar typically ranges from 6 to 8 feet. This spec is important because it affects the bar's balance and the amount of weight it can hold. A standard men's bar is usually 7 feet long, while women's bars are around 6.5 feet. If you have limited space or are focusing on specific lifts like the bench press, a shorter bar might be more suitable. For general use and versatility, a 7-foot bar is often the best choice.
Bar WeightOlympic bars come in different weights, with the standard men's bar weighing 20 kg (44 lbs) and the women's bar weighing 15 kg (33 lbs). This spec is important because it ensures you are lifting the correct weight for your training and competition standards. If you are training for Olympic weightlifting or powerlifting, it's essential to use a bar that matches the competition standards. For general fitness, choose a bar weight that aligns with your strength level and training goals.
Bar DiameterThe diameter of an Olympic bar affects your grip and the bar's overall strength. Men's bars typically have a diameter of 28-29 mm, while women's bars are around 25 mm. A thicker bar can be more challenging to grip, which can impact your performance, especially in lifts like the snatch or clean and jerk. Choose a bar diameter that feels comfortable in your hands and allows you to maintain a secure grip throughout your lifts.
KnurlingKnurling refers to the textured pattern on the bar that helps with grip. The depth and pattern of the knurling can vary, with some bars having more aggressive knurling for a better grip and others having a smoother texture. This spec is important for ensuring you can hold onto the bar securely, especially during heavy lifts. If you have sensitive hands or prefer a less aggressive grip, opt for a bar with moderate knurling. For heavy lifting and better grip, choose a bar with more pronounced knurling.
WhipWhip refers to the bar's flexibility and how much it bends under load. This spec is important for dynamic lifts like the clean and jerk or snatch, where a bit of flex can help with the movement. Bars with more whip are preferred for Olympic weightlifting, while stiffer bars are better for powerlifting. Consider the type of lifting you will be doing most often and choose a bar with the appropriate amount of whip for your needs.
Sleeve RotationThe sleeves of an Olympic bar are the parts that hold the weight plates, and their ability to rotate smoothly is crucial for certain lifts. This spec is important because it reduces the stress on your wrists and allows for smoother lifts. Bars with high-quality bearings or bushings in the sleeves will rotate more smoothly. If you are performing a lot of Olympic lifts, look for a bar with good sleeve rotation. For general strength training, this may be less critical, but still beneficial.
Tensile StrengthTensile strength measures how much weight the bar can handle before it bends or breaks, usually indicated in pounds per square inch (PSI). This spec is important for ensuring the durability and safety of the bar. Bars with a tensile strength of 150,000 PSI or higher are considered strong and durable. For heavy lifting and long-term use, choose a bar with a higher tensile strength. For lighter training, a lower tensile strength may be sufficient.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now