Training with an Olympic barbell will allow you to lift more weight and help build strength and muscle mass.
A quick look at our top Olympic Barbells
Best Olympic barbells that can support your strength training program
Compared to a standard bar, an Olympic barbell has a larger two-inch sleeve diameter allowing you to use Olympic bumper plates.
The sleeves on Olympic barbells can take more weight than that on standard bars. Thus using one of them for your training can help you lift heavier weights, making them better suited to intermediate and experienced lifters than novices.
Setting up a gym can be a costly venture. You would like equipment that will serve you well for many years without bothering about replacement.
Thus if you are serious about weightlifting or intend to include weightlifting in your fitness plans, getting an Olympic barbell will be a better choice than a standard bar.
Below are some of the best Olympic barbells on the market.
We have compiled the list from our research and analysis based on many factors, including build quality, materials, durability, and price.
We are confident one of the bars will meet your requirements, helping to save you time and effort.
Best Olympic Barbell Overall: Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar
Fitness enthusiasts and athletes hold Rogue Fitness equipment in high esteem due to their quality and durability.
The Ohio Bar is one of many strength and conditioning equipment from Rogue Fitness and is arguably the best Olympic barbell to have in any gym. It is well-built and made in the USA.
The high 190,000 PSI tensile strength steel bar is available in various finishes, including the Cerakote option that can withstand different weather conditions. Thus you have the opportunity to choose a finish to meet your needs.
Opting for the stainless steel version will give you a 200,000 PSI tensile strength steel bar enhanced for Powerlifting and Olympic lifts. It also features dual knurl marks and bronze bushings, giving you spinning consistency, unparalleled rigidity, durability, and a better grip.
The 16.4-inch loadable sleeve is long enough to hold any weight plates to support the strength-building regimen of any experienced lifter. And the bar is rigid and stable, allowing you to go heavy with your load without any fear of it curving.
The strength and durability of the Rogue Ohio Bar make it highly versatile. Thus, aside from general training, you can use it for powerlifting, Crossfit, and weight lifting.
The medium knurling gives a firm and comfortable grip and should not leave blisters on your palms.
There is no center knurling. Thus it may not be on top of the list of Powerlifters. But removing that feature makes the Ohio Bar the best all-around Olympic Barbell that can meet the needs of lifters across all spectrums.
The Ohio bar is keenly priced, and you get a lifetime warranty for peace of mind. It should be at the top of your list if you want the best Olympic weight lifting barbell for your gym.
Pros
- High tensile strength
- Medium knurling for a comfortable firm grip
- Suitable for different training and workout environments
- Quality bronze bushings for durability and better performance
- Various finishing options, including Cerakote
- Made in the USA
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- No center knurling. Thus it may not suit some Powerlifters
Product Weight: 20 kilos | Product Length: 86.75 inches | Product Diameter: 28.5mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.4 inches
The Rogue Ohio Bar is available for viewing and ordering from Rogue Fitness.
Best Multi-Purpose Olympic Barbell for Women: Rogue Bella Bar 2.0
At 15kg, the Rogue Bella Bar is lighter and has a smaller diameter than the Ohio Bar. Thus it is an ideal Olympic barbell for women lifters.
Aside from the dimensions, the build quality, durability, and features of the Ohio Bar and the Bella Bar are identical. A 190,000 PSI tensile strength steel bar ensures you have a barbell that can hold any weight loaded on it without bending.
Like the Rogue Ohio bar, the Bella Bar features high-quality bronze bushings for a smooth and fluid spin, rigidity, and non-aggressive knurling for a comfortable and firm grip.
The Bella Bar comes in different finishes, including stainless steel and Cerakote.
A Ceracote finish ensures a bar with a tough finish that can withstand various harsh weather conditions.
Going for the stainless steel finish gives you an upgraded 200,000 tensile strength steel bar and a finish resistant to oxidation. It will also give you a much better grip.
Unlike the Ohio Bar, the sleeves are shorter but long enough to hold enough weight plates for the most experienced women lifters.
Rogue Bella Bar has been a leading barbell in strength training and competitions for women for many years. It is a multi-purpose bar with no knurling at the center for Crossfit, Powerlifting, weightlifting, and strength training.
Getting one for your gym will give you one of the best Olympic barbells that can cater to the needs of different women athletes in various sports.
It can also be a good buy for younger athletes and men with a smaller grip.
Pros
- High tensile strength steel bar
- Different finishes available
- Made in the USA
- Lighter, thinner, and shorter, making it suitable for women, the youth, and men with a smaller grip
Cons
- The absence of knurling in the center may not suit some Powerlifters.
Product Weight: 15 kilos | Product Length: 79.13 inches | Product Diameter: 25mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 13 inches
The Rogue Bella Bar 2.0 is available to view and purchase from Rogue Fitness.
Best Olympic Barbell for Power Lifters: Rogue Ohio Power Bar
You can’t look any further than the Rogue Ohio Power Bar if you are a powerlifter or want to go into powerlifting.
The Ohio Power Bar has a cult following in powerlifting circles, with the belief that training with the bar can help you squat more, lift better, and bench smoother.
The attention to detail in the manufacturing and finishing of the bar is second to none. It is solid, well-designed, well-built, and can handle any weight, thanks to the 200,000 PSI Tensile Strength steel (205,000 on some versions) shaft. The 16.25-inch loaded sleeve length allows you to load as much weight as you want without the bar bending.
The Ohio Powar bar has a 29mm shaft, which seems to be the preferred option for powerlifters, making it thicker and stiffer, and thus causing less whip.
Like the standard Ohio Bar, it features bronze bushings for smooth operation and comes in different finishing options, including Cerakote and stainless steel, to meet the requirements of any lifter. The stainless steel version gives the best feeling and experience and should be the one to aim for if you are into powerlifting.
The non-aggressive volcanic design knurling on the bar gives some of the best feelings and offers a firm grip. It is not abrasive, allowing you to train comfortably.
Unlike the standard Ohio bar, the Power Bar has knurling in the center, making it more suitable for powerlifting.
The Ohio Power Bar is an excellent value Olympic barbell for beginner and experienced powerlifters and should be high on your list if you are into that sport.
Pros
- High-quality build, solid and durable
- High tensile strength steel shaft
- Excellent value for money
- Non-aggressive knurling gives a better grip and some of the best feelings
- Lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Knurling may not suit every lifter.
Product Weight: 45 pounds | Product Length: 86.52 inches | Product Diameter: 29mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.25 inches
You can view and order the Rogue Ohio Power Bar directly from Rogue Fitness
Best Value Olympic Barbell: Synergee Games Barbell
The 190,000 PSI tensile strength of the Synergee Games Barbell put it level with the Rogue Ohio Bar. Build quality may not be as high as the Rogue Fitness Olympic bars, but it is not far off.
The Games Bar is solid and stiff enough to take any load without bending. And the 1500-pound rated capacity makes it suitable for all grades of lifters, including beginners and the experienced.
Synergee fitness opted for needle bearings which allow a faster lift. Thus the Games bar will be suitable for movements to overhead and chest, such as snatches of clean and jerk.
The high-strength steel has a Cerakote finish, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions.
The non-aggressive knurling should give you a firm and comfortable grip without leaving blisters on your palms.
Two weight options of 15 and 20 pounds make the barbell accessible to different sexes and users.
The Synergee Games Barbell is keenly priced, making it an excellent value Olympic barbell. It may not be the first choice of some powerlifters who want aggressive knurling, but it can meet the needs of many in other sports.
Pros
- High tensile strength
- High weight capacity
- Different color options
- Needle bearings for a faster lift
- Cerakote finish for longevity
- Different weight and color options
Cons
- Knurling may not suit every lifter.
- It may not suit those looking for a bar for squats and bench presses.
Product Weight: 15 or 20 kilos | Product Length: 79.13 inches | Product Diameter: 25 or 28mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.4 inches | Maximum Load: 1500 pounds
You can view and buy the Synergee Games Barbell on Amazon.
Alternatively, the Synergee Games Barbell is available for viewing and purchasing directly from Synergee Fitness.
Best Budget Olympic Barbell: Xmark Lumberjack
Xmark Lumberjack is a lowly-priced Olympic barbell that should meet the needs of beginners and casual lifters on a budget.
The build quality is acceptable, and the knurling is not too aggressive, giving a firm and comfortable grip.
The manganese phosphate coating on the shaft should protect it from rust and wear and tear and give it longevity.
It features self-lubricating brass alloy bushings allowing the bar to rotate and operate freely.
You should not expect wonders from the bar at that low price tag, but it should be a reasonable buy for those on a budget looking to incorporate barbell exercises into their training.
Pros
- Acceptable build quality
- A good budget option for beginners and casual lifters
- Non-aggressive knurling
Cons
- It may not be very durable.
- Inadequate protection from the coating
- Some quality control issues
Product Weight: 19.5 kilos | Product Length: 7 feet | Product Diameter: 28mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.5 inches
The Xmark Lumberjack is available on Amazon.
Best Olympic Barbell for Beginners: E.T. Energic Olympic Barbell
The E.T. Energic Olympic Barbell is lowly priced but has features comparable to those in more expensive bars.
It features a high 200,000 PSI tensile strength bar with a 1500-pound rated capacity, enough to take any load from experienced lifters without bending.
A four-needle bearing system allows the bar to spin and operate effortlessly.
The knurling is not aggressive or rough and should give a firm and comfortable grip.
The chrome sleeve, though not the preferred material for experienced lifers, is acceptable and will do the job for many exercisers.
The overall build quality is acceptable for the price point. The welds are solid, not perfect, but respectably finished.
The quality and performance of the E.T. Energic Olympic Barbell are not at the same level as the Rogue Ohio Bar, but it should meet the lifting needs of many beginners and those on a budget.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Acceptable build quality
- High tensile strength bar and weight limit
- Acceptable choice of components
Cons
- Some quality control issues
- Finishing may not be very durable.
Product Weight: 44 pounds | Product Length: 86.61 inches | Product Diameter: 28mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.4 inches | Maximum Load: 1500 pounds
The E.T.Energic Olympic Barbell is available to view and order on Amazon
Best Olympic Barbell – Highly Recommended: Cap Barbell – The Beast
The Cap Barbell – The Beast is one of the three Olympic barbells we are happy to recommend in addition to those listed above.
The Cap bar is cheap but has a lot going for it.
The build quality is not the best, but it is acceptable for the price.
The black oxide finish is not the best but can protect the bar for a considerable period. The 110,000 PSI tensile strength cold-rolled steel bar seems weak compared to others. But the 1200-pound weight limit, combined with the 15-inch loadable sleeves, should meet the lifting requirements of many beginner and casual lifters.
The medium knurling is good enough to give you a firm and comfortable grip and should not leave blisters on your palms. Bushing in the sleeves allows a smooth spin, makes it easy to work with the bar, and reduces stress on the wrists. There is no center knurling, so it may not be suitable for some sports.
The Beast is not exceptional, but acceptable. You can’t expect much more from a barbell on a low budget. However, Its price is the selling point.
It’s an Olympic barbell for those looking for a bar to start their strength training but hoping to upgrade when the time is right. The 30mm diameter handgrips may not suit everybody. But for others, it will be a worthwhile addition to their gym setup.
It may not be as stiff as other bars, but our researchers did not identify any serious issues or complaints from buyers. Thus it is worth considering
Pros
- Low price tag
- Coating to protect the shaft from rust
- Medium knurling for a firm and comfortable grip
Cons
- Low PSI tensile strength steel
- High weight capacity
- Shorter loading sleeves than on standard Olympic barbell
- Low-quality control measuresWeak spin
- Finishing is not as durable as in others
Product Weight: 20 kg | Product Length: 85.95 inches | Product Diameter: 28mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 15 inches | Maximum Load: 1200 pounds
The CAP Barbell – The Beast, is available for viewing and ordering on Amazon.
Best Olympic Barbell – Highly Recommended: Steelbody IWF Standard Olympic Barbell
The Steelbody Olympic Barbell is another bar we recommend to those looking for alternatives.
It is a 190,000PSI tensile strength steel bar with a 1500-pound weight rating, stiff and rugged enough to hold any weight and rough handling from some of the most seasoned lifters. The 16.25-inch long sleeves can take whatever weight plates.
The bar meets IWF Standards, making it an excellent training tool for weightlifting competitions.
The knurling has a ceramic coating to help increase friction between your hands and the bar for a firmer grip.
A hardened chrome finish to protect the bar from rust and needle bearings in the sleeves for smooth spinning and operation are other features that draw us to the Steelbody Barbell.
It is an Olympic barbell that will meet the training and strength-building requirements of many. The price is reasonable. Thus, it should not leave a big dent in your bank account.
Pros
- High tensile strength
- High load capacity
- Needle bearings for smooth operation
- Keenly priced
Cons
- Some quality control issues
- Some durability concerns
Product Weight: 45 pounds | Product Length: 86.5 inches | Product Diameter: 28mm | Loadable Sleeve length: 16.25 inches
The Steelbody Olympic Barbell is available to buy on Amazon.
Best Olympic Barbell – Highly Recommended: Rep Fitness Gladiator Olympic Bar
The Rep Fitness Gladiator Olympic Barbell has a whopping 230,000 PSI tensile strength, the highest on our list, with a 1500-pound static rating, making it one of the stiffest.
It is a solid product with high-grade steel that should hold any weights thrown at it without bending.
The chrome coating may not be the choice of some seasoned lifters, but it will protect the bar from rust for a while.
The needle bearings in each sleeve offer a smooth spin, helping to reduce stress on your wrists, while the medium knurling is quality enough to give a firm and comfortable grip without damaging your skin tissues.
The warranty is limited to just five years, which is a shame, given that Rogue Fitness and others offer lifetime warranties.
The price tag is also at the high end. Thus we recommend interested readers assess it with the Rogue Ohio Bar before making a final decision.
That said, the Rep Fitness Gladiator is a well-made, high-quality Olympic barbell that will meet the needs of lifters and athletes in all categories.
Pros
- High tensile strength
- High static weight rating
- Needle bearings for smooth spinning
- Different weight options
Cons
- Some may find the knurling a bit aggressive
- 5-year warranty
Product Weight: 20 kilos | Product Length: 86.5 inches | Product Diameter: 28mm | Maximum Load: 1500 pounds
The Rep Fitness Gladiator Olympic Bar is available on Amazon.
Factors to Consider when buying an Olympic Barbell – A Buyers Guide
You will need a high-quality, robust bar that can take the weight you intend to lift.
Below are some factors to consider when choosing the best Olympic barbell for your gym.
- Materials
The most vital component of an Olympic barbell is steel. Steel has many grades and strength levels.
You will need a bar that is robust and durable enough so that it can handle the weight you plan to lift without bending.
Generally, you will need a bar with a minimum of 180,000PSI tensile strength to ensure it can do the job if building muscle mass or lifting weights is one of your goals. Casual lifters and beginners can get away with a bar with a lower PSI.
Using the PSI as a guide is a more reliable indicator of the strength of the bar than the manufacturer’s published weight capacity. - Quality of the Knurling
The quality of the knurling on the barbells will determine how well you can grip it with chalk in your palms and whether it will damage your skin tissues.
Most lifters prefer medium knurling for a better and more comfortable grip.
Those intending to go into powerlifting should look for bars with knurling in the center, but that is not a necessary feature for general-purpose bars. Powerlifters may also be better with more aggressive knurling for a better grip.
Lifters intending to train for competitions should look for bars with either IWF or IPF markings or notches. Such markings can help them know where to place their hands when snatching. - Rotation System
Olympic barbells have bearings or bushings in the sleeves that allow the bar to spin.
Barbells with bearings generally spin faster, are more expensive, and may not be durable. For most lifters, that may not be necessary.
Bushing barbells are excellent for slower or heavy lifts, including powerlifting. They are self-lubricating, long-lasting, require minimum maintenance, and provide a smooth and steady spin.
We recommend you look for an Olympic barbell with bushings unless you have a reason to do otherwise. - Build Quality and Finish
The build quality of any gym equipment can affect its durability and performance.
The quality and type of finishing can affect the bar’s longevity.
Bare steel may give the best feeling to some, but such bars can oxidize and rust easily without proper care and attention.
Available finishing options include black oxide, hard chrome, stainless steel, and Cerakote finishes.
The black oxide finish will be a good choice for those on a budget. For many, stainless steel bars give the best feeling of the knurling, while a Cerakote finish will ensure the bar can withstand harsh weather conditions. - Sleeves
The sleeves should spin smoothly for better lifting experience and performance. It should also be long enough to take the weight plates you intend to lift.
Olympic barbells come in two different weights – 15kg and 20kg.
A 15kg bar has a loadable sleeve length of about 12.5 inches, while a 20kg bar has about 16.5 inches. - Warranty
The warranty should be comprehensive and long, covering defects and issues arising from regular use.
A lifetime warranty like that from Rogue Fitness with give you peace of mind and the assurance that you are buying a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer