The Best Barbells of 2025 for Powerlifting, CrossFit, and More.

Introduction

Hey there, fitness enthusiast! Looking to up your lifting game in 2025? Well, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of barbells – those long metal bars that are the backbone of any serious workout routine. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting out, choosing the right barbell can make a huge difference in your training.

But why is picking the right barbell so important? Well, it’s like choosing the right pair of shoes for a marathon. The wrong choice can lead to discomfort, poor performance, and even injury. The right barbell, on the other hand, can enhance your lifts, improve your form, and help you reach your fitness goals faster. So, let’s get to it and find your perfect bar!

The Best Olympic Barbells on the Market

Our Top Barbells for Different Purposes

Let’s dive deeper into our top picks for 2025, exploring each barbell’s features, pros, and cons in detail:

#1 DMoose Regional Barbell

4.9

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Length: 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
• Shaft diameter: 28mm
• Tensile strength: 190,000 PSI
• Finish: Hard chrome
• Knurl: Medium

What we love:

• Good for different types of lifts
• Strong and can hold heavy weights
• Spins well for Olympic lifts
• Not too pricey

What to consider:

• Not as fancy as some more expensive bars
• Might not be the best for very serious lifters

Why We Choose DMoose Regional Barbell

We picked the DMoose Regional Barbell because it’s a real workhorse. It can handle everything from Olympic lifts to heavy deadlifts. Plus, you can use it with both rubber and iron plates, which is super convenient. Whether you’re a beginner building strength or a seasoned weight lifter chasing PRs, this barbell can help you lift weight properly. It’s built tough, so you know it’ll last.

Overview

DMoose Regional Barbell is a good all-around bar. It works well for many types of lifts, from squats exercise to deadlifts. This bar is strong and can handle heavy weights without bending.

The bar has marks to help you place your hands right. It also spins well, which is good for Olympic lifts. The price is fair, making it a good choice for home gyms or people just starting out.

Many customers like this bar. They say it feels solid and works well for different exercises like best back exercises for weightlifters. Some people wish the grip was a bit rougher. Overall, most users think it’s a good value for the price.

#2 DMoose Powerlifting Barbell

4.8

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Length: 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
• Shaft diameter: 29mm
• Tensile strength: 210,000 PSI
• Finish: Black zinc
• Knurl: Aggressive
• Center knurl: Yes

What we love:

• Very stiff for stable lifts
• Rough patches for better grip
• Can hold extremely heavy weights
• Great for serious powerlifters

What to consider:

• Not good for Olympic lifts
• Might be too rough for some people’s hands

Why We Choose DMoose Powerlifting Barbell

The DMoose Powerlifting Barbell is chosen for its suitability for powerlifting exercises. Its design emphasizes stiffness and whip, key factors in powerlifting performance. The bar’s knurling is aggressive, providing excellent grip, while its overall construction ensures durability under heavy loads. This combination makes it a preferred choice among powerlifters.

Overview

DMoose Powerlifting Barbell is made for serious lifters. It’s very stiff, which helps when you’re lifting really heavy weights. This bar is best for squats, bench presses, and deadlifts.

The bar has a rough grip to help you hold it better. It also has a rough patch in the middle for squats. This bar can hold a ton of weight without bending, which is great for powerlifters.

Customers who lift heavy weights love this bar. They say it feels solid and stable. Some people find the grip too rough at first. But most get used to it and like how it helps them lift more weight.

#3 REP Fitness Colorado Bar

4.6

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Shaft diameter: 28.5mm
• Tensile strength: 180,000 PSI
• Finish: Black zinc shaft with bright zinc sleeves

Detailed features:

• Dual knurl marks for versatility
• Bushing rotation system
• Medium knurl for a balance of grip and comfort

What we love:

• Excellent value for money
• Good all-around performance for various lifts
• Decent tensile strength for the price
• Attractive black and silver contrast look

What to consider:

• Not as durable as more expensive options
• Spin may not be as smooth as premium bars
• Limited finish options

Why We Choose REP Fitness Colorado Bar

We picked the REP Fitness Colorado Bar because it’s a total gym champ! This 20kg bar can handle anything you throw at it – powerlifting, Olympic lifts, or CrossFit. The dual knurl markings are perfect for any competition, and the bushings make it super smooth to spin. Plus, you can choose from a sleek chrome finish or cool cerakote colors.

Overview

REP Fitness Colorado bar is a good bar for people on a budget. It’s strong enough for most lifters but doesn’t cost too much. This bar works well for different types of lifts.

The bar has a nice black finish that looks good. It has marks to help you place your hands right. The grip is not too rough, which many people like.

Customers often say this bar is of great value. Many are surprised by how good it is for the price. Some very strong lifters might want something tougher. But for most people, it works just fine.

#4 The Rogue Ohio Bar

4.5

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Shaft diameter: 28.5mm
• Tensile strength: 190,000 PSI
• Finish options: Black zinc, E-coat, Cerakote, or Stainless Steel
• Made in the USA

Detailed features:

• Dual knurl marks for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting
• Bronze bushings for a smooth, consistent spin
• Available with or without center knurling

What we love:

• Excellent versatility for various lifting styles
• High-quality construction with attention to detail
• Multiple finish options to suit different preferences and environments
• Good balance of whip and stiffness
• Lifetime warranty against bending

What to consider:

• Not specialized for any particular lifting style
• Pricier than some entry-level options
• Some users find the knurling too passive for heavy powerlifting

Why We Choose Rogue Ohio Bar

The Rogue Ohio Bar is a high-performance barbell crafted with American steel. Its design prioritizes durability, featuring a tensile strength capable of handling intense workouts. The bar’s smooth spin and reliable grip enhance lifting efficiency. While it represents a significant investment, the Ohio Bar’s reputation for longevity and exceptional performance makes it a compelling choice for athletes seeking a top-tier training tool.

Overview

Rogue Ohio Barbell is a very popular all-around barbell. It works well for many types of lifts, from Olympic lifts to powerlifting moves. This bar is strong and can handle heavy weights.

The bar has marks for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting. It spins well, which helps with fast lifts. You can get it with different finishes to suit your needs.

Many people love this bar. They say it feels great and lasts a long time. Some users wish the grip was rougher. But most agree it’s a top choice for both home gyms and CrossFit boxes.

#5 Titan Safety Squat Olympic Bar V2

4.5

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Specs:

• Weight: 25kg (55 lbs)
• Length: 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
• Pad width: 14 inches
• Weight capacity: 600kg (1,320 lbs)
• Finish: Black powder coat
• Handle type: Straight

What we love:

• Easy on the shoulders and back
• Good for people with injuries
• Can be used for different exercises
• Helps you squat with good form

What to consider:

• Not for Olympic lifts or bench press
• Takes some getting used to

Why We Choose Titan Safety Squat Bar

The Titan Safety Squat Bar V2 stands out for its cost-effective design without compromising essential features. While manufactured abroad, it maintains satisfactory quality standards. This bar caters to a wide range of users seeking a balance between performance and budget, offering exceptional value compared to higher-priced alternatives.

Overview

Titan Safety Squat Bar differs from normal bars. It sits on your shoulders and has handles near your head. This special shape makes squats easier on your shoulders and back.

You can use this bar for more than just squats. It’s good for lunges and other leg exercises too. People with shoulder problems often find this bar more comfortable to use.

Many users say this bar has helped them squat more weight. They like how it feels on their shoulders. Some people say it takes time to get used to. But most agree it’s great for anyone with shoulder or back issues.

#6 Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell

4.4

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Length: 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
• Shaft diameter: 28.5mm
• Tensile strength: 165,000 PSI
• Finish: Black Phosphate
• Knurl: Moderate

What we love:

• Good price for home gyms
• Works well for basic lifts
• Strong enough for most people
• Nice grip that’s not too rough

What to consider:

• Not as strong as more expensive bars
• Might not be best for very heavy lifting

Why We Choose Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell

The Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell stands out due to its robust construction and versatility. Crafted from high-quality steel, it offers exceptional durability and 750lbs weight capacity. This barbell’s precision engineering, including 6 multiple-bearing options, ensures smooth rotation, which is essential for optimal performance in various exercises.

Overview

Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell is a good choice for people working out at home. It’s not too expensive but still works well for basic lifts. This bar is strong enough for most people’s workouts.

The bar has a nice grip that’s not too rough on your hands. It works well for barbell exercises like squats, bench presses, and deadlifts. It’s a good option if you’re just starting out or don’t need anything fancy.

Customers often say this bar is of great value. Many are happy with how it performs for home workouts. Some solid lifters might want something tougher. But for most people, it works just fine

#7 Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Competition Bar

4.4

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Specs:

• Weight: 20kg (44 lbs)
• Shaft diameter: 28mm
• Tensile strength: 215,000 PSI
• Finish: Chrome

What we love:

• Exceptional performance for Olympic lifts
• Unmatched quality and attention to detail
• Excellent whip for dynamic lifts
• Proven durability and longevity
• Prestige associated with the Eleiko brand

What to consider:

• Extremely expensive
• Overkill for general fitness or powerlifting
• May require more maintenance due to high-precision components

Why We Choose Eleiko IWF Competition bar

We picked the Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar because it’s the real deal. It’s made to the highest standards and feels incredible in your hands. The smooth spin and perfect balance help you lift better. If you’re serious about weightlifting, this bar is a must-have.

Overview

Eleiko IWF Competition bar is a top-of-the-line Olympic weightlifting bar. It’s the kind used in big competitions. This bar is very strong and performs extremely well.

The bar spins very smoothly, which is great for Olympic lifts. It has a special grip that many lifters love. It’s also known for lasting a very long time.

Serious weightlifters rave about this bar. They say it feels amazing and helps them lift better. Some people say it’s too expensive for casual use. But those who compete think it’s worth every penny.

Comparison Summary

To help you quickly compare these top picks, here’s a summary table:

Remember, the best barbell for you depends on your specific needs, lifting style, and budget equipment. Consider your primary use case, the types of lifts you’ll be doing most often, and your experience level when making your decision. Don’t hesitate to read user reviews and if possible try out different bars before making your final choice.

How We Chose the Best Barbells

Budget

BBR experts looked at barbells at different prices. Some are cheap, some are expensive. We wanted to find good options for all kinds of budgets. We picked the best barbells in each price range. This way, everyone can find a good best barbell on a budget which they can afford.

Weight Capacity

Our team checked how much weight each barbell can hold. This is important for safety. We picked barbells that can hold a lot of weight. The best ones can handle more than most people will ever lift. This means they’re safe for almost everyone to use.

Durability

We wanted barbells that last a long time. We looked at what they’re made of. We also checked what other people said about how long they last. The best barbells don’t bend or break easily. They can be used for many years without problems.

Purpose

We thought about what people use barbells for. Some people do Olympic lifts. Others do powerlifting. Some just want to get fit. We picked barbells that work well for different kinds of lifting. The best ones can be used for many types of workouts.

Benefits of Barbell Lifting

The barbell lifting offers a multitude of benefits for individuals of all fitness levels. Here are some of the key advantages:

Increase in Muscle Size and Physical Power

It is very efficient for muscle growth and increasing strength when you are lifting barbells. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research^[1] revealed that participants who engaged in barbell squats for a period of 8 weeks experienced a 32% average improvement in their leg press strength when compared to individuals who utilized leg machines.

Additionally, a study(2017)^[2] conducted by Schoenfeld et al. showed that participants who did barbell-based resistance training three times weekly for 12 weeks saw an average increase of 2.18 kg in lean muscle mass.

Metabolism and the Reduction of Body Fat

The weighted barbell workouts can greatly increase metabolism and help with losing fat. A recent study in Sports Medicine found that people who included heavy barbell exercises in their workouts burned an extra 158 calories daily, even when not actively working out, compared to those who did not do resistance training. This heightened metabolism continued for as long as 72 hours after the workout.

Bone Density Improvement

Barbell exercising done on a regular basis has been proven to improve bone mineral density. A study conducted over a period of 3 years, which was published in the Springer,^[3] discovered that postmenopausal women who engaged in barbell squats and deadlifts twice a week boosted their hip bone density by 3.8%, while the control group saw a decrease of 1.2%.

Functional Strength and Daily Performance

The barbell workouts are easily applicable to everyday tasks. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research^[4] found that elderly individuals in a 16-week barbell training program increased their speed when climbing stairs by 28% and lowered their chances of falling by 40% in comparison to those who did not lift weights.

Optimizing Hormones

The weightlifting with a heavy barbell can have a beneficial effect on hormonal equilibrium. Research in the BioRxiv^[5] discovered that males who engaged in barbell squats and deadlifts saw a 23.5% boost in testosterone levels and a 21.6% rise in growth hormone immediately after the workout, in comparison to initial measurements.

Mental Health and Cognitive Abilities

The barbell training could potentially provide cognitive advantages. A study published in 2010 in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine^[6] found that individuals who participated in barbell-based resistance strength training two times a week for six months saw a 12.6% increase in their executive function scores and a 20% decrease in anxiety symptoms compared to a control group that did not exercise.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barbell

Alright, now that we know the types, let’s talk about what makes a good barbell tick:

Weight Capacity

How much can this bar handle before it turns into a pretzel? For most of us, anything over 1000 lbs is plenty, but hey, if you’re the Hulk, you might need more. Here’s a rough guide:

• Beginner: 500-700 lbs capacity
• Intermediate: 700-1000 lbs capacity
• Advanced: 1000+ lbs capacity

Tensile Strength

This is the bar’s ability to resist breaking under tension. It’s measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Here’s what to look for:

• 150,000-190,000 PSI: Good for most gym-goers
• 190,000-230,000 PSI: Great for serious lifters
• 230,000+ PSI: Top-tier bars for elite lifters

Yield Strength

This tells you how much the bar can take before it gets bent out of shape. It’s usually about 90% of the tensile strength. A higher yield strength means the bar is less likely to develop a permanent bend.

Shaft Diameter

Most bars are either 28-29mm (Olympic style) or 29-32mm (power bars). Thinner bars are easier to grip but might have more whip. Here’s a quick guide:

• 25mm: Women’s Olympic bar
• 28mm: Men’s Olympic bar
• 28.5mm: Multi-purpose bar
• 29-32mm: Powerlifting bar

Knurling Pattern and Intensity

This is the rough stuff on the bar that helps you grip it. Some like it sharp, some like it smooth. It’s all about personal preference. Types of knurling include:

• Passive: Light texture, good for high-rep workouts
• Moderate: Balanced grip without being too aggressive
• Aggressive: Maximum grip, great for heavy lifts but can be rough on hands

Sleeve Design and Spin

The sleeves are where you load the weights. Good spin helps with Olympic lifts, while powerlifters might prefer less spin. Look for:

• Smooth rotation
• Minimal lateral play
• Durable bushings or bearings

Whip and Flexibility

More whip is great for Olympic lifts, less whip is better for powerlifting. Choose based on your style:

• High whip: Best for Olympic lifts
• Moderate whip: Good for multi-purpose bars
• Low whip: Ideal for powerlifting

Finish and Corrosion Resistance

Nobody wants a rusty bar. Common finishes include:

• Bare steel: Great feel, but requires more maintenance
• Zinc: Good corrosion resistance, decent feel
• Cerakote: Excellent corrosion resistance, comes in various colors
• Stainless steel: Best corrosion resistance and feel, but pricey

Barbell Maintenance and Care

Taking care of your bar is like taking care of a car. A little love goes a long way:

Wipe it down after use to prevent rust

• Use a dry cloth to remove sweat and chalk
• For stubborn chalk, use a nylon brush

Clean the knurling regularly

• Use a nylon brush to get into the grooves
• For deep cleaning, use a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly

Oil it occasionally (if it’s bare steel)

• Use 3-in-1 oil or a specialized barbell oil
• Apply a thin layer and wipe off excess

Store it properly

• Keep it horizontal to prevent warping
• Use a barbell squat rack or gun rack for storage

Inspect regularly

• Check for any bends or damage
• Ensure sleeves are spinning smoothly

Avoid chalk build-up

• Brush off chalk after each use
• Deep clean if chalk accumulates in knurling

Remember, a well-maintained barbell can last for decades!

How to Test a Barbell’s Quality

When you get your hands on a bar, here’s what to look for:

Smooth, consistent spin in the sleeves

• Spin the sleeves and listen for any grinding noises
• The spin should be smooth and last for a few seconds

No wobble in the sleeves

• Hold the bar vertically and check for any lateral movement in the sleeves

Even knurling

• Run your hand along the knurling to check for consistency
• See any flat spots or overly sharp areas

Straightness

• Roll the bar on a flat surface to check for any bends
• Look down the length of the bar to spot any curves

Finish quality

• Check for any chips, scratches, or unevenness in the finish

End cap security

• Ensure the end caps are securely fastened and not loose

Weight accuracy

• If possible, weigh the bar to confirm it matches the stated weight

Price Range and Value Considerations

Barbells can range from dirt cheap to “I could buy a used car for that” expensive. Here’s a rough guide:

Budget: $100-$200

• Pros: Affordable, good for beginners
• Cons: May have lower weight capacity, less durable finish
• Best for: Home gym beginners, casual lifters

Mid-range: $200-$400

• Pros: Good balance of quality and price, suitable for most lifters
• Cons: May lack some premium features
• Best for: Serious home gym owners, intermediate lifters

Premium: $400+

• Pros: Top-notch quality, high durability, premium features
• Cons: Expensive
• Best for: Competitive lifters, commercial gyms, those who want the best

You often get what you pay for, but some great mid-range options serve most lifters well. Consider your long-term goals and budget when making a decision.

User Reviews and Recommendations

Don’t just take our word for it! Check out user reviews on fitness forums and YouTube. Real-world experience is invaluable when choosing a bar. Here are some places to look:

• Reddit communities like r/homegym or r/weightlifting
• YouTube reviews from respected fitness channels
• Fitness forums
• CrossFit community boards
• Powerlifting forums

Look for consistent feedback across multiple sources. Pay attention to comments about durability, feel, and customer service experiences.