If you’re into deadlifting, you know conventional deadlifts are a total game-changer. Once you start doing them, you’ll be hooked for life. And trust me, getting yourself a specialty bar is the way to go. Specialty barbells are designed to be a bit narrower, grippier, and more elastic, so you can lift those heavy weights off the ground with ease.
However, finding the right type of deadlift bar can be a real headache as there are so many options out there to choose from. But, hey, don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I did you a solid and put together a list of the best deadlift bar options on the market, along with a handy deadlift bar basics buying guide to help you make just the right choice.
So, let’s get started and find you the perfect bar to smash your deadlifts!
Jump to:
- In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks
- How Am I Qualified to Write About These Products?
- Who Is This Guide For?
- How We Picked the Best Products?
- How We Compared Each Product
- The Best Deadlift Bars to Buy in 2023
- Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar – Our Top Pick
- Eleiko Rack Bar – Great Alternative
- REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar – Best Sumo Deadlift Bar
- Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar – Best Hex Bar for Deadlifts
- Valor Fitness OB-DL Deadlift Bar – Best Budget Option
- Rogue Ohio Cerakotee Deadlift Bar – Best Multi-Purpose Bar for Deadlifts
- Guide to Choosing the Best Deadlift Bar: Everything You Need to Know
- Frequently Asked Questions About Deadlift Barbells
In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks
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| Product's name | Our Top Pick Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar | Great Alternative Eleiko Olympic Weightlifting Training Bar - 20 kg, Men | Best Sumo Deadlift Bar REP FITNESS Stainless Steel Power Bar Deep Knurl 20kg | Best Hex Bar for Deadlifts Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar | Best Budget Option Valor Fitness Olympic Deadlift Bar –Max Weight 1200 lbs -... | Best Multi-Purpose Bar for Deadlifts Rogue Ohio Cerakotee Deadlift Bar |
| Final Thought | The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is a specialized traditional barbell designed specifically for deadlifts. | The Eleiko Rack Bar is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line barbell for their strength training. | Overall, the REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar is an excellent choice for advanced powerlifters who need a durable bar for lifting heavier loads. | The Rogue TB-2 is a top-rated trap deadlift bar ideal for lifters who experience discomfort or strain on their wrists or elbows when using a traditional power bar. | The Valor OB-DL Deadlift Bar is best suited for powerlifters, strength athletes, and anyone looking to build strength and muscle mass through deadlifts. | The Rogue Ohio Cerakote Bar is best for anyone looking for a high-quality barbell suitable for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting. |
| Diameter | 27mm | 29mm | 29mm | 48.5mm | 27mm | 28.5mm |
| Length | 90.5 inches | 86.6 inches | 86.75 inches | 56.5 inches | 90.5 inches | 86.75" |
| Knurling | Volcano-style, with a center 17" section without knurling | Well-balanced with strategic elimination where the bar meets racks and j-cups | Dual knurling with both powerlifting and Olympic markings | Medium knurling | Aggressive knurling pattern that is specifically designed to provide a secure grip during deadlifts | Aggressive knurl with both standard and powerlifting knurl markings |
| Coating | Available in raw steel, zinc, or resistant Cerakote finish options | Black oxide coating for rust resistance and durability | Satin finish, hard chrome sleeve finish | Powder-coated steel bar | Black oxide sleeve and shaft coating to protect against rust and corrosion | Cerakote |
| Tensile strength | 190,000 PSI | 215,000 PSI | 190,000 PSI | 100,000 PSI | 165,000 PSI | 190,000 PSI |
| Weight capacity | 1,500 lbs | 1500 kg | 1,500 lbs | 1000 lbs | 1500 lbs | 2000 lbs |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Lifetime |
| Price | $390 | $732 | $429 | $395 | $274 | $355.00 |
| Learn more | See at Rogue | See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Rogue | See at Amazon | See at Rogue |
How Am I Qualified to Write About These Products?
Here at BoxLife, we’re a team of health and fitness enthusiasts who are passionate about lifting weights and training. We’re a bunch of experienced lifters and trainers who are well-versed in the science of deadlifting and finding the right equipment.
All of us have an active lifestyle, and we’ve tried working out with various deadlift bar brands. We have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to choosing a conventional deadlift bar or a more specific type of deadlift bar. We know exactly how each of them works, what their differences, pros, and cons are, and which ones will help you crush your intense workouts.
We’re sharing all of our knowledge here at BoxLife Magazine because we believe that with our experience and expertise, you can make an informed decision and take your workout performance and personal records to the next level. So, let’s get lifting!
Who Is This Guide For?
If you’re looking to take your deadlifting game to new heights, you’re at the right place. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, picking the best bar and working out with the right deadlift bar weight is key to maximizing your performance, getting the most out of your workouts, and smashing your personal records.
So, if you want to find out which deadlift bars are the absolute best, and why, then this guide is definitely for you! If you’re ready to smash some serious weight off the ground, let’s go!
How We Picked the Best Products?
To pick the best products, we conducted extensive research on a wide range of deadlift bars, analyzing each product based on key factors such as diameter, length, knurling, coating, tensile strength, weight capacity, warranty, and price. We also considered brand reputation, customer reviews, and expert opinions to ensure that we were making informed decisions.
After evaluating each product based on these factors, we selected the top-performing deadlift bars that offered the best combination of quality, performance, durability, and affordability. Our goal was to provide lifters of all levels with a comprehensive and unbiased review of the best deadlift bars on the market.
How We Compared Each Product
In comparing the different deadlift bars on our list, we considered several important factors, including the bar’s diameter, length, knurling, coating, tensile strength, weight capacity, warranty, and price. These factors can affect the performance, safety, and durability of the bar, making them essential to consider.
The diameter and length of the bar can affect the grip and feel of the bar. We compared bars with different diameters and lengths to determine which ones offered the most comfortable and secure grip. The knurling can affect the grip and prevent the bar from slipping during lifts.
The coating can affect the durability and appearance of the bar. We compared bars with different coatings to determine which ones offered the most durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Tensile strength and weight capacity can affect the safety and performance of the bar. We compared bars with different tensile strengths and weight capacities to determine which ones could handle heavier loads and provide the most safety and stability during lifts.
Finally, we considered the warranty and price of each bar, as these factors can affect the overall value of the bar. We compared bars with different warranties and prices to determine which ones offered the best balance of quality and affordability.
By considering these factors, we were able to compare and evaluate different deadlift bars to determine the best options for deadlifters of all levels.
The Best Deadlift Bars to Buy in 2023
Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar – Our Top Pick
The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is a widely recognized and frequently purchased traditional barbell for deadlifting and is considered one of the most popular deadlift bars in the world. The Ohio Deadlift Bar we tested was made of raw steel and cost $310, but there are other versions available with zinc or Cerakote finishes. We prefer deadlift bars made of raw steel due to the sharper knurl. However, it’s important to note that it may form a patina over time, particularly in a garage gym.
The Ohio Deadlift Bar is our top pick due to many reasons. We loved the fact that the knurling placement and feel are very similar to that of the Rogue Ohio Power Bar. Still, it felt a bit sharper due to the smaller 27mm diameter and we reckoned the knurling offers a firm grip.
The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar has a volcano-style knurl, which creates tiny volcanoes on the barbell shaft, with no center knurl for 17″. The fact that there’s no center knurl in this area means that conventional deadlifters don’t have to worry about the tiny volcano knurl markings shredding up their shins. The volcano knurl also allows for more contact surface area with the hands, which leads to a stronger and firm grip and fewer ripped calluses.
The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is smooth to pull and offers a smoothness that can only be found on deadlift barbells. The bar allows you to smoothly pull the slack out of the bar, and it almost feels like the bar is assisting you during the lift once the plates break from the floor. The bar’s thinner diameter and overall length (90.5″) also contribute to the bar’s whip. Rogue uses a 190K PSI Tensile Strength Steel shaft, which is ideal for the deadlift, as it’s slightly on the bendy side. This allows for more weight to be lifted, but too bendy of a bar can be difficult to control.
Despite being a deadlift bar, Rogue Ohio is still strong enough to receive an F2 rating on Rogue’s F Scale, indicating it can handle a high level of use and can last a long time in any gym, including a powerlifting-focused gym. Rogue’s lifetime warranty is one of the best and most comprehensive in the industry, covering any manufacturing defects or issues that arise during normal use. However, using the bar for rack pulls and dropping it on the pins will likely not be covered.
In summary, the Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is an excellent piece of equipment that is consistently manufactured and engineered to handle heavy deadlifts.
Pros
- The knurl depth on the bar is sharp and grippy, contributing to a firm grip to hold onto heavy weights during deadlifts
- The smaller shaft diameter (27mm) of the bar provides a better overhand grip for lifters with smaller hands
- The volcano-style knurl markings allow for more contact surface area with the epidermal layer of the hands, reducing the risk of callus tears
- The bar has a smooth pull and a good amount of whip, making it easier to lift heavier weights
- The bar is rated F2 on Rogue’s F Scale, indicating its high level of durability and ability to handle heavy loads
- Rogue offers a lifetime warranty on the bar, which is one of the best and most comprehensive warranty terms in the industry
Cons
- Raw steel deadlift bars require maintenance to prevent rust and patina over time
- The bar may not be suitable for lifters with larger hands due to its smaller shaft diameter
- The volcano-style knurling may not be suitable for lifters who prefer a more aggressive knurl pattern
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 27mm |
| Length: | 90.5 inches |
| Knurling: | Volcano-style, with a center 17″ section without knurling |
| Coating: | Available in raw steel, zinc, or resistant Cerakote finish options |
| Tensile strength: | 190K PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 1,500 lbs |
| Warranty: | Lifetime |
| Price: | $390.00 |
Who It’s Best For
The Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is a specialized traditional barbell designed specifically for deadlifts. Its features, such as the aggressive knurling, whip, and longer length, make it best suited for experienced powerlifters and serious weightlifters who are looking to maximize their deadlift performance.
The aggressive knurling on the barbell shaft provides a secure and firm grip, which is essential for lifting heavy loads. The extra whip of the bar, which refers to its flexibility, helps to absorb shock and momentum during the lift, allowing the lifter to get in a powerful lifting position and lift heavier weights more efficiently. The longer length of the bar also allows for a wider stance, which can help engage more muscle groups during the lift.
Overall, the Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar is best suited for experienced lifters who are serious about improving their deadlift performance, gaining some serious deadlift muscles, and are comfortable with the unique features of a specialized deadlift barbell.
Eleiko Rack Bar – Great Alternative
Eleiko’s NxG traditional power bars have been designed with powerlifting in mind, and they feature volcano-top less aggressive knurling that is well-balanced, making it possible to pull big weights without chalk. While this bar has a medium knurling that’s not as aggressive as other bars approved by the International Powerlifting Federation or Rogue Ohio, it’s still very effective.
The bar has a standard 29mm shaft diameter and is versatile enough to accommodate various lifting styles. It offers optimal stiffness and stability during lifts, making it ideal for strength rooms and free-weight areas where bars are used with benches and racks to meet a variety of training needs.
The NxG rack bar is exceptionally strong and designed to handle up to 1500 kg, making it one of the best standard power bars for high volume and heavy use. It also features knurl markings for powerlifting which are strategically placed to provide comfort and control while lifting, making this traditional power bar appropriate for a variety of lifters.
In addition, the bar’s knurl markings have been strategically eliminated where the bar meets the rack or j-cups, in order to protect the equipment from damage. From its excellent construction to its well-balanced knurling placement, the Eleiko Rack Bar is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Pros
- Made from high-quality Swedish steel for exceptional durability and performance
- 29mm diameter offers optimal stiffness and stability
- Can handle up to 1500 kg, making it ideal for high-volume and heavy-use environments
- The well-balanced knurling placement provides both comfort and control during lifts
- Markings for powerlifting make it a great choice for those who compete
- Strategically eliminated knurling where the bar meets racks and j-cups to protect equipment
Cons
- Higher starting price point than some other barbell options on the market
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 29mm |
| Length: | 2200mm (86.6 inches) |
| Knurling: | Well-balanced with strategic elimination where the bar meets racks and j-cups |
| Coating: | Black oxide coating for rust resistance and durability |
| Tensile rating: | 215,000 PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 1500 kg |
| Warranty terms: | 10-year warranty |
| Price: | $732 |
Who It’s Best For
The Eleiko Rack Bar is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line barbell for their strength training. While it may be pricier than some other options on the market, its quality construction and innovative design make it well worth the investment. Whether you’re a seasoned powerlifter or a beginner looking to build strength and muscle, the Eleiko Rack Bar is an excellent choice that will serve you well for years to come.
REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar – Best Sumo Deadlift Bar
The REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar is a high-quality bar for sumo deadlifts that is well-suited for strength training and powerlifting. After extensive testing, our team has found that it excels as a bar for sumo deadlifts but it’s also versatile enough to be used in other exercises such as back squats and bench presses.
One of the standout features of this bar is the IPF knurl markings and center knurling, which are specifically designed to help guide your hands to the right position for each repetition. This feature proved to be particularly useful in sumo deadlifts, as it allowed for a consistent overhand grip and reduced the risk of slipping or losing balance during the lift.
In addition to its knurling, the center knurling of the REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar is multifaceted, contributing to a more grippy shaft and adding more stability during back squats. This feature makes it easier to keep the bar in place and prevents it from sliding down the back during the exercise.
The diameter of this standard deadlift bar is 29mm, which contributes to a more comfortable hook grip for most users. It is also well-suited for strength-focused exercises such as deadlifts, as its bushing design allows for smooth and consistent movement.
Another impressive feature of this bar is its 190,000 PSI tensile strength rating, which means that it is capable of handling any weight that you load onto it. This makes it suitable for powerlifting and other strength training exercises that involve heavier loads. Moreover, the stainless steel construction offers excellent resistance to oxidation, ensuring that the bar will last for years to come.
However, you should be aware that the REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar has outer aggressive knurling which may scrape the shins if not handled with care. Additionally, the 29mm diameter may be uncomfortable for some users, especially those with smaller hands.
Pros
- High-quality stainless steel construction provides excellent durability and resistance to rust and corrosion
- This deadlift bar weight capacity is 1,500 lbs, making it suitable for heavier loads and intense training
- Dual knurling with both powerlifting and Olympic markings makes it versatile for a range of lifting styles
- The bronze bushings provide smooth sleeve rotation, reducing friction during lifts
- The bar has a moderate level of a whip, providing a good balance of rigidity and flexibility for powerlifting movements
Cons
- This Olympic barbell is quite expensive compared to other powerlifting bars on the market
- The 29mm diameter may be too thick for some lifters who prefer a thinner bar
- The moderate level of whip may not be suitable for lifters who prefer more or less flexibility in their bars
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 29mm |
| Length: | 86.75 inches |
| Knurling: | Dual knurling with both powerlifting and Olympic markings |
| Coating: | Satin finish, hard chrome sleeve finish |
| Tensile strength: | 190,000 PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 1,500 lbs |
| Warranty terms: | Lifetime warranty |
| Price: | $429 |
Who It’s Best For
Overall, the REP Fitness Stainless Steel Power Bar is an excellent choice for advanced powerlifters who need a durable bar for lifting heavier loads. Its stainless steel construction, weight capacity, and smooth sleeve coating and rotation make it a great investment for those who are serious about their training. However, its high cost and a moderate level of whip may not be suitable for all lifters.
Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar – Best Hex Bar for Deadlifts
The Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar is a versatile piece of equipment made from high-quality steel and has a weight capacity of 1000 lbs, making it suitable for both beginners and athletes who are looking to perform trap bar deadlifts.
One of the standout features of the Rogue TB-2 is its unique design. The hexagonal shape of the bar allows for a neutral grip, which is more comfortable for many lifters and reduces the strain on the wrists and elbows. The elevated handles also provide additional clearance for users with bigger hands or mobility restrictions.
In addition to the neutral grip, the TB-2 also has a built-in rack for convenient storage. This makes it easy to keep the bar off the floor and out of the way when not in use, which is especially helpful in smaller home gyms or commercial settings.
The Rogue TB-2 is our top-rated trap deadlift bar due to many reasons. It’s incredibly versatile and it can be used for a variety of exercises, including deadlifts, shrugs, squats, lunges, and farmer’s carries. The neutral grip allows for a more comfortable and efficient lift, while the elevated handles provide additional options for a hook grip width and hand placement. The bar can also be used for shoulder presses and other upper-body exercises.
Pros
- The unique hexagonal shape allows for a neutral grip, reducing strain on the wrists and elbows
- Elevated handles provide additional clearance for users with larger hands or mobility restrictions
- The built-in rack allows for convenient storage and saves space in smaller home gyms or commercial settings
- The powder shaft coating provides excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear
- Versatile design allows for a range of exercises, including deadlifts, squats, lunges, and farmer’s carries
Cons
- The elevated handles may not be necessary for all users, and could potentially get in the way of certain exercises
- The higher price point may not be suitable for lifters on a budget
- The hexagonal shape may take some getting used to for those accustomed to straight traditional power bars
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 48.5mm |
| Length: | 56.5 inches |
| Knurling: | Medium knurling |
| Coating: | Powder-coated steel bar |
| Tensile strength: | 100,000 PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 1000 lbs |
| Warranty terms: | Lifetime warranty |
| Price: | $395 |
Who It’s Best For
The Rogue TB-2 is a top-rated trap deadlift bar ideal for lifters who experience discomfort or strain on their wrists or elbows when using a traditional power bar. Its unique hexagonal shape, elevated handles, and built-in rack make it a standout piece of equipment, while its versatility and durability make it suitable for both beginners and advanced lifters. However, its higher price point and potential limitations for certain exercises may not make it feasible or necessary for all lifters.
Valor Fitness OB-DL Deadlift Bar – Best Budget Option
Valor’s OB-DL Deadlift Bar is an affordable option for fitness enthusiasts looking for a high-quality barbell for deadlifts, whether for commercial or home gym use. The bar’s impressive specs make it one of the best bars for deadlifts available on the market today.
The bar has the same length and thickness as the popular Rogue Ohio bar, but the loadable sleeves are slightly more compact by 1″ on each end. This results in a long shaft that enables a greater range of motion and makes it possible for weights to sit further apart. The bar is made of steel with a tensile strength of 165K PSI, allowing for greater whip and flex when lifting heavy weights.
While the OB-DL is an excellent option for deadlifts, it is not suitable for Olympic or other moves, and it should not be racked on power bars or dropped from a height. The bar also features heavy-duty, rubber-coated bushings on the collars, and carries a single powerlifting mark. The knurl-free center of the bar is followed by rings 7.5″ apart, providing an ideal grip surface.
One potential downside of the OB-DL is that the knurling could be more aggressive, especially considering it is a specialty bar. However, the bar’s affordable starting price and quality make it a worthwhile investment for deadlift enthusiasts. It is worth noting that the bar requires regular oil or WD-40 treatment to maintain its longevity, and chalk should be removed with a plastic dish brush rather than disinfecting wipes, as the powder coat is thin.
Overall, the Valor OB-DL Deadlift Bar is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and high-quality barbell for deadlifts. While it may not be suitable for all exercises, it offers great value for money and should be a top consideration for anyone looking to improve their deadlift performance.
Pros
- Reasonable price compared to other specialty deadlift bars on the market
- Steel construction with a tensile strength of 165K PSI for greater whip and flex
- Long shaft and compact loadable sleeves provide a greater range of motion
- Heavy-duty, rubber-coated bushings on the collars reduce wear and tear
- Suitable for both commercial and home gym use
Cons
- Knurling could be more aggressive for those who prefer a more textured grip
- Not suitable for Olympic or other moves
- Should not be racked on power bars or dropped from a height
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 27mm |
| Length: | 90.5 inches |
| Knurling: | Aggressive knurling pattern that is specifically designed to provide a secure grip during deadlifts |
| Coating: | Black oxide sleeve and shaft coating to protect against rust and corrosion |
| Tensile strength: | 165K PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 1500 lbs |
| Warranty terms: | Limited lifetime warranty |
| Price: | $274 |
Who It’s Best For
The Valor OB-DL Deadlift Bar is best suited for powerlifters, strength athletes, and anyone looking to build strength and muscle mass through deadlifts. The aggressive knurling and 27mm diameter make it easier to grip and hold onto during heavy lifts, while the black oxide finish and high tensile strength ensure that the bar can withstand repeated heavy use without bending or breaking.
Additionally, the bar’s weight capacity of 1500 lbs is higher than most standard barbells, making it suitable for more advanced lifters who are lifting heavier loads. Overall, the Valor OB-DL Deadlift Bar is best suited for those looking for an affordable and high-quality barbell for deadlifts.
Rogue Ohio Cerakotee Deadlift Bar – Best Multi-Purpose Bar for Deadlifts
The Rogue Ohio Bar Cerakote is a top-quality barbell designed to provide the ultimate lifting experience. The resistant Cerakote coating provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion, ensuring that your bar will last for years to come. It is also available in a range of vibrant colors, making it a stylish addition to any home or commercial gym.
The bar’s 28.5mm diameter and 190,000 PSI tensile strength make it a great all-purpose barbell suitable for all types of lifting, from powerlifting to Olympic lifting. The dual knurl markings on the bar provide a secure grip and are spaced perfectly for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting.
The Rogue Ohio Bar Cerakote also features a bushing system that ensures a smooth rotation of the sleeves, reducing the wear and tear on your wrists and elbows. The sleeves are compatible with Olympic weight plates, and the bar has a loadable sleeve length of 16.40″.
One of the standout features of this barbell is its durability. The Cerakote coating not only protects against rust and corrosion but also provides excellent abrasion resistance, ensuring that the bar can withstand the toughest workouts. The bar is also backed by a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind in knowing that you’re making a sound investment.
In terms of value, the Rogue Ohio Bar Cerakote is on the higher end of the price range for barbells, but the quality of the product justifies the price. The bar is suitable for beginners and experienced lifters alike and is an excellent addition to any home gym.
Pros
- Durable Cerakote coating protects against rust, corrosion, and abrasion
- 28.5mm diameter and 190,000 PSI tensile strength suitable for all types of lifting
- Dual knurl markings provide a secure grip and are spaced perfectly for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting
- The bushing system ensures a smooth rotation of the sleeves, reducing wear and tear on wrists and elbows
- Compatible with Olympic weight plates and has a loadable sleeve length of 16.40″
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other barbells on the market
- Cerakote coating may wear off over time with heavy use
Key Specs
| Diameter: | 28.5mm |
| Length: | 86.75″ |
| Knurling: | Aggressive knurl with both standard and powerlifting knurl markings |
| Coating: | Cerakote |
| Tensile strength: | 190,000 PSI |
| Weight capacity: | 2000 lbs |
| Warranty terms: | Lifetime |
| Price: | $355.00 |
Who It’s Best For
The Rogue Ohio Cerakote Bar is best for anyone looking for a high-quality barbell suitable for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting. The Cerakote coating provides excellent protection against rust, corrosion, and abrasion, making it an excellent investment for those looking for a long-lasting barbell for their home gym. However, its higher price point may make it less appealing for those on a budget or just starting out with lifting.
Guide to Choosing the Best Deadlift Bar: Everything You Need to Know
Deadlifts are one of the most important exercises for anyone who is serious about strength training. They are an effective way to build strength in your back, legs, and core. One of the most important pieces of equipment for deadlifting is the barbell. While any barbell can be used for this exercise, there are a few factors you should consider when buying to make sure you choose the best deadlift bar for your fitness goals and budget.
What Is a Deadlift Bar?
A deadlift bar is a type of barbell that’s designed for deadlifting. Unlike a standard barbell, a deadlift bar is longer and more flexible. This allows you to lift more weight and perform the lift more safely and effectively. The increased length and flexibility of the bar also means that it can bend and whip more easily, making it easier to break the weight off the ground and to lockout at the top of the lift.
Types of Deadlift Bars
There are several types of deadlift bars, but the two most common types are the powerlifting bar and the Olympic weightlifting bar.
Powerlifting Deadlift Bar
The powerlifting deadlift bar is thicker and stiffer than the Olympic weightlifting bar. It’s designed to handle heavy weights and withstand a lot of abuse. Powerlifting deadlift bars are typically made from high-quality steel and have a tensile strength of at least 190,000 PSI. They also have a knurled grip pattern, which provides extra grip and prevents the bar from slipping out of your hands.
Olympic Weightlifting Deadlift Bar
The Olympic weightlifting deadlift bar is thinner and more flexible than the powerlifting deadlift bar. It’s designed for Olympic weightlifting, which includes the clean and jerk and the snatch. Olympic weightlifting bars are typically made from high-quality steel and have a tensile strength of at least 200,000 PSI. They also have a more aggressive knurl pattern, which provides extra grip.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Deadlift Bar
If you’re serious about lifting heavy and improving your deadlift performance, investing in a quality deadlift bar can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. From diameter and length to knurling and coating, there are several factors to consider when buying a deadlift bar.
Bar Material
The first factor to consider when buying a deadlift bar is the material of the bar. The two most common materials used for deadlift bars are steel and aluminum.
Steel bars are the most durable and long lasting, making them an excellent option for serious lifters. They also have a higher weight capacity, which means they can handle heavier loads. However, steel bars can be more expensive than aluminum bars.
Aluminum bars are lighter and more affordable than steel bars. They are a good option for beginners or lifters who are not lifting heavy weights. However, aluminum bars are not as durable as steel bars, and they may bend or warp over time.
Bar Length
Deadlift bars are typically longer than standard barbells. The most common lengths for deadlift bars are 7 feet and 8 feet. The length of the bar you choose will depend on your height and the amount of space you have in your home gym or workout area.
Bar Diameter
The diameter of the bar you choose will depend on your grip preference. Most deadlift bars have a diameter of 27mm or 29mm. Thicker bars are better for people with bigger hands, while thinner bars are better for people with smaller hands.
Knurling
The knurl on the bar is important because it affects your grip. Deadlift bars typically have a more aggressive knurling pattern than standard barbells. This provides extra grip and prevents the bar from slipping out of your hands. When choosing a deadlift bar, look for one with a knurl pattern that feels comfortable in your hands.
Weight Capacity
Deadlift bars are designed to handle heavier weights. When choosing a deadlift bar, make sure it has a weight capacity that’s appropriate for your strength level. Most deadlift bars have a weight capacity of at least 1,000 pounds.
If you are a serious lifter who plans on lifting heavy weights, you will need a bar with a higher weight capacity. However, if you are a beginner or are not planning on lifting heavy weights, a bar with a lower weight capacity may be sufficient.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the bar is important because it affects the way the bar bends and whips. A more flexible bar will be easier to break off the ground and lock out at the top of the lift. When choosing a deadlift bar, look for one with the right amount of flexibility for your lifting style.
Cost
Deadlift bars can vary in price, you can find everything from budget-friendly options to high-end bars that can cost several hundred dollars. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, remember that the quality of the bar can affect your lifting performance and safety.
Higher-end bars are typically made with higher-quality materials, have better knurling, and can handle heavier loads. They may also come with a longer warranty, which can provide peace of mind.
However, if you are on a tight budget or are a beginner lifter, a more affordable deadlift bar may be suitable for your needs. Just be sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase, as some cheaper bars may not be as durable or safe to use.
Brand Reputation
Today, there are many deadlift bar brands to choose from. The reputation of the brand can give you an idea of the quality of the product and the level of customer service you can expect.
A reputable brand will often have a history of producing high-quality deadlift bars that are durable, reliable, and perform well. They may also have a strong presence in the fitness community and be well-respected among experienced lifters.
On the other hand, brands with a poor reputation may design low-quality deadlift bars that are not durable and may even be unsafe to use. They may also have poor customer service, making it difficult to resolve any issues that arise.
When researching brands, it is important to read reviews from other lifters and to look for feedback on the brand’s customer service. This can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you are investing in a high-quality deadlift bar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deadlift Barbells
What type of bar is best for deadlift?
The type of bar that is best for deadlifts will depend on your needs and preferences. However, the two common types of deadlift barbells are the powerlifting bar and the Olympic weightlifting bar.
A powerlifting bar is thicker and stiffer than an Olympic weightlifting bar. It is designed to handle heavy weights and withstand a lot of abuse. Powerlifting bars typically have a tensile strength of at least 190,000 PSI and a knurled grip pattern, which provides extra grip and prevents the bar from slipping out of your hands.
An Olympic weightlifting bar, on the other hand, is
thinner and more flexible than a powerlifting bar. It is designed for Olympic weightlifting exercises such as the clean and jerk and the snatch. Olympic weightlifting bars typically have a tensile strength of at least 200,000 PSI and a more aggressive knurling pattern, which provides extra grip for the lifter.
Ultimately, the choice between a powerlifting bar and an Olympic weightlifting bar will depend on your goals, preferences, and lifting style. If you’re primarily focused on deadlifting heavy weights, a powerlifting bar may be a better option. If you’re more drawn toward Olympic weightlifting exercises, an Olympic weightlifting bar may be a better option.
Is a thin or thick bar better for deadlifts?
The diameter of the bar used for deadlifts will depend on your preferences and hand size. Most deadlift bars have a diameter of either 27mm or 29mm. A thicker bar is generally better for lifters with larger hands, as it provides a more secure grip. A thinner bar is generally better for lifters with smaller hands, as it allows for a more comfortable grip.
However, some people prefer a thicker bar for deadlifts, even if they have smaller hands, as it can help to strengthen their grip over time. Additionally, some lifters prefer a thinner bar for deadlifts, as it allows them to better feel the weight of the bar in their hands, which can help with technique and form.
We recommend trying both options to determine which one works best for you.
What size bar for deadlifts?
The size of the deadlift bar you use should depend on your height and the space available in your workout area. Deadlift bars are typically longer than standard barbells, with the most common lengths being 7 feet and 8 feet. A longer bar may be more comfortable for taller lifters, as it allows them to maintain proper form throughout the lift. However, a longer bar may not be practical for lifters with limited space in their workout area.
Additionally, the size of the bar should also be compatible with the size of the plates you use for deadlifts. A standard Olympic plate has a diameter of 450mm, which can impact the amount of space available on the bar for additional plates. Some deadlift bars may have a smaller diameter than standard Olympic bars, which can limit the amount of weight that can be added to the bar.
