The 6 Best Barbells For CrossFit: A Buyers Guide

CrossFit is a high-intensity fitness regimen that combines weightlifting, cardio, and functional movements to challenge your strength, endurance, and agility.

Whether you’re tackling Olympic lifts, working on heavy squats, or perfecting your bench press, having the right barbell can make all the difference in your performance and progress.

Your barbell isn’t just another piece of gym equipment—it’s the focus of many CrossFit workouts. 

A high-quality barbell must withstand heavy loads, aggressive use, and constant wear and tear while maintaining smooth spin and durability. 

Without a barbell that meets these standards, you could struggle with technique and grip during your lifts.

This buyer’s guide is designed to help you find the best CrossFit barbell for your needs, whether you’re building a garage gym, equipping a CrossFit box, or upgrading your home gym setup. 

From premium options like the Rogue Ohio Bar to budget-friendly choices like the CAP Barbell, you’ll discover six excellent barbells that cater to different preferences, budgets, and goals. 

Let’s find the perfect barbell to elevate your CrossFit training!

Best Barbells for CrossFit Shortlist

Best for Overall (men): Rogue Ohio Bar
Best for Overall (women): Rogue Bella Bar 2.0
Best for Durability: REP Fitness Colorado Bar
Best for Budget-Friendly Option: RitFit Olympic Barbell
Best for Powerlifting and CrossFit: Titan Fitness Performance Series Olympic Barbell
Best for Beginners: CAP Barbell Olympic Bar

What Are The Best Barbells For CrossFit?

Rogue Ohio Bar

The Rogue Ohio Bar is widely regarded as one of the best CrossFit barbells on the market. 

Constructed with cold-rolled steel, it offers a 190K PSI tensile strength, making it highly durable for heavy lifts and repeated use. 

Its versatility is unmatched, designed to handle Olympic lifts, powerlifting, and functional movements with ease. 

This bar features dual knurl markings for better grip and accommodates a wide range of lifting styles. 

It’s available in several finishes, including cerakote, stainless steel, and black zinc, offering excellent corrosion resistance.

With composite bushings and a smooth sleeve spin, this bar ensures fluid movement during high-rep CrossFit workouts and Olympic weightlifting. 

Backed by a lifetime warranty, the Rogue Ohio Bar is an excellent long-term investment for serious lifters.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 190K PSI tensile strength for heavy lifting and durability
• Available in multiple finishes for corrosion resistance, including cerakote and black zinc
• Dual knurl markings for versatility in CrossFit and Olympic lifting
• Smooth spin with composite bushings for a better lifting experience
• Lifetime warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to budget barbells
• Medium knurling may not provide enough grip for those who prefer aggressive knurling

Who Should Buy It?

The Rogue Ohio Bar is perfect for athletes looking for a versatile, durable barbell that can handle heavy weights and high-rep CrossFit workouts. 

If you’re building a garage gym or want a premium barbell with unique features and long-term reliability, this is one of the best choices. 

However, if you’re on a tight budget, you might consider a more affordable option like the CAP Barbell.

Purchase the Rogue Ohio Bar today!

Rogue Bella Bar 2.0

The Rogue Bella Bar 2.0 is a top-tier women’s barbell designed with CrossFit athletes in mind. 

Featuring a 25 mm shaft diameter and 190K PSI tensile strength, it provides a smaller diameter and lighter weight (15 kg) for better control during Olympic lifts, functional movements, and heavy lifts. 

The bar comes with dual knurl markings for versatility and medium knurling for a comfortable yet secure grip.

This barbell’s black zinc finish and composite bushings offer excellent corrosion resistance and a smooth spin, making it ideal for high-intensity workouts. 

It’s built to last and designed for athletes who value performance, durability, and aesthetics.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight (15 kg) and smaller diameter (25 mm) designed for women
• High tensile strength (190K PSI) for heavy loads and long-term use
• Dual knurl markings and medium knurling for versatility and comfort
• Black zinc finish for corrosion resistance and durability
• Smooth spin with composite bushings

Cons:

• Medium knurling may not provide the aggressive grip some lifters prefer
• Limited to lighter loads compared to standard barbells

Who Should Buy It?

The Rogue Bella Bar 2.0 is an excellent option for women seeking a versatile barbell tailored to their needs. 

If you’re a CrossFit athlete or Olympic lifter who values good grip, smooth spin, and a high-quality build, this bar will meet your expectations. 

It’s also a great choice for garage gym owners who want a premium women’s barbell that will last a long time. 

However, if you’re new to lifting or need a more affordable price range, the Wonder Bar may be a better option.

Purchase the Rogue Bella Bar 2.0 today!

REP Fitness Colorado Bar

The REP Fitness Colorado Bar is a high-performance barbell designed to handle the demands of CrossFit, Olympic weightlifting, and strength training. 

With a 200K PSI tensile strength, this bar is built for heavy loads and rigorous use. 

It features dual knurl markings for versatility and a medium knurling that balances grip and comfort, making it suitable for Olympic lifts, power bars, and functional movements.

This bar is coated with a hard chrome finish on the shaft and sleeves, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability. 

The composite bushings and needle bearings ensure a smooth spin, which is essential for dynamic CrossFit workouts and Olympic lifts. 

It’s available in multiple colors, adding a touch of personalization to your garage gym setup.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High tensile strength (200K PSI) for heavy lifting and durability
• Dual knurl markings for versatility in CrossFit and Olympic lifting
• Hard chrome finish for corrosion resistance and longevity
• Smooth spin with composite bushings and needle bearings
• Multiple color options for a personalized home gym setup

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to budget barbells
• Medium knurling may not satisfy those who prefer aggressive knurling

Who Should Buy It?

The REP Fitness Colorado Bar is an excellent choice for CrossFit athletes and strength trainers who want a durable, high-performance barbell with unique features. 

If you’re looking to invest in a premium barbell for heavy lifts, Olympic lifting, and functional movements, this is a great bar to consider. 

It’s especially ideal for garage gym owners who want a barbell with both functionality and aesthetic appeal. 

However, if you’re working with a tighter budget, you might explore options like the CAP Barbell or Wonder Bar.

RitFit Olympic Barbell

The RitFit Olympic Barbell is a budget-friendly option for lifters looking to get started with CrossFit or strength training without breaking the bank. 

With a 190K PSI tensile strength, this bar offers solid durability for moderate lifting and functional movements. 

It features a 28 mm shaft diameter, medium knurling, and dual knurl markings for versatility, accommodating both Olympic lifts and powerlifting movements.

The bar is equipped with bronze bushings to provide a smooth spin, making it suitable for CrossFit workouts that include high-rep barbell cycling. 

The black oxide coating offers decent corrosion resistance, while its affordable price makes it accessible for beginner and intermediate athletes building their home gym.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price point, ideal for budget-conscious buyers
• 190K PSI tensile strength for decent durability
• Dual knurl markings for versatile lifting styles
• Medium knurling for a comfortable grip during CrossFit workouts
• Bronze bushings for smooth sleeve spin

Cons:

• Black oxide finish offers less corrosion resistance compared to cerakote or hard chrome
• May not handle extremely heavy loads as well as higher-end barbells

Who Should Buy It?

The RitFit Olympic Barbell is perfect for beginner or intermediate CrossFit athletes who need an affordable, functional barbell for their home gym setup. 

If you’re just starting your CrossFit journey or need a reliable barbell for moderate lifting, this is one of the best budget barbells available. 

However, if you plan to handle heavy weights over a long time or want more premium features, you might prefer a higher-end option like the Rogue Ohio Bar or REP Fitness Colorado Bar.

Titan Fitness Performance Series Olympic Barbell

The Titan Fitness Performance Series Olympic Barbell is a versatile and durable bar designed for both CrossFit and Olympic weightlifting. 

With a tensile strength of 200K PSI, this barbell can handle heavy weights and intense training sessions. 

Its medium knurling provides a good grip without being overly aggressive, catering to a wide range of athletes.

The bar features dual knurl markings, making it suitable for both powerlifting and Olympic lifts. 

It has a black zinc finish for corrosion resistance, and the sleeves are equipped with a combination of bronze bushings and needle bearings for a smooth spin during dynamic movements. 

The Titan Fitness bar comes at an affordable price range, making it a strong competitor in the mid-tier barbell market.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 200K PSI tensile strength for heavy lifting and durability
• Dual knurl markings for versatility across lifting styles
• Black zinc finish offers decent corrosion resistance
• Smooth sleeve spin with bronze bushings and needle bearings
• Affordable price range for its performance level

Cons:

• Black zinc finish may wear off over time
• Lacks the premium feel of higher-end barbells like the Rogue Ohio Bar

Who Should Buy It?

The Titan Fitness Performance Series Olympic Barbell is an excellent choice for CrossFit athletes and strength trainers seeking a balance of performance and affordability. 

If you’re looking for a versatile barbell with a smooth spin and good whip for Olympic lifts, this bar delivers solid value. 

It’s especially suitable for garage gym owners who want high tensile strength and functionality without overspending. 

However, if you’re looking for premium features like a cerakote finish or aggressive knurling, you might want to explore options like the REP Fitness Colorado Bar.

CAP Barbell Olympic Bar

The CAP Barbell Olympic Bar is a budget-friendly barbell designed for entry-level CrossFit athletes and home gym enthusiasts. 

With a tensile strength of 120K PSI, it’s durable enough for light to moderate lifting but not intended for heavy lifting or intense Olympic weightlifting.

The bar has a 30 mm shaft diameter, which is thicker than standard Olympic barbells, making it more suitable for general strength training rather than CrossFit workouts. 

It features a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance and medium knurling for a comfortable grip during basic lifts. 

The CAP Barbell is one of the best budget barbells for those just starting their fitness journey or looking for an affordable addition to their home gym setup.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price point, ideal for beginners
• Black oxide finish provides moderate corrosion resistance
• Medium knurling for a comfortable grip during training
• Accessible for those with a limited budget

Cons:

• 120K PSI tensile strength limits its durability for heavy loads
• 30 mm shaft diameter may feel bulky for Olympic lifts or CrossFit movements
• Lacks premium features like dual knurl markings or smooth spin mechanisms

Who Should Buy It?

The CAP Barbell Olympic Bar is a great choice for beginners or casual lifters who need a cost-effective solution for general strength training. 

If you’re building a home gym on a budget or want a barbell for light to moderate lifting, this bar offers good value for the price. 

However, if you’re planning to lift heavy weights or perform CrossFit movements, you might want to invest in a more durable and versatile option like the Rogue Ohio Bar or Titan Fitness Performance Series Bar.

​CrossFit Barbell Comparison Chart

This table provides a clear comparison of the features and benefits of each barbell, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Feature	Rogue Ohio Bar	Rogue Bella Bar 2.0	REP Fitness Colorado Bar	RitFit Olympic Barbell	Titan Fitness Performance Series Bar	CAP Barbell Olympic Bar
Tensile Strength	190K PSI	190K PSI	200K PSI	190K PSI	200K PSI	120K PSI
Shaft Diameter	28 mm	25 mm	28 mm	28 mm	28 mm	30 mm
Weight	20 kg	15 kg	20 kg	20 kg	20 kg	20 kg
Knurling	Medium (Dual Knurl Markings)	Medium (Dual Knurl Markings)	Medium (Dual Knurl Markings)	Medium (Dual Knurl Markings)	Medium (Dual Knurl Markings)	Medium (No Center Knurl)
Finish	Cerakote, Stainless Steel, Black Zinc	Black Zinc	Hard Chrome	Black Oxide	Black Zinc	Black Oxide
Spin Mechanism	Composite Bushings	Composite Bushings	Composite Bushings & Needle Bearings	Bronze Bushings	Bronze Bushings & Needle Bearings	Bronze Bushings
Corrosion Resistance	High (due to Cerakote/Black Zinc)	High (Black Zinc)	High (Hard Chrome)	Moderate (Black Oxide)	Moderate (Black Zinc)	Moderate (Black Oxide)
Warranty	Lifetime	Lifetime	1-Year	1-Year	1-Year	30 Days
Price Range	High	High	Mid-range	Budget-friendly	Mid-range	Budget-friendly
Who Should Buy	Serious lifters, garage gym owners	Women athletes, garage gym owners	CrossFit athletes, strength trainers	Beginners, home gym owners	Budget-conscious athletes, home gyms	Beginners, budget-conscious lifters

What Makes a Barbell Great for CrossFit?

Durability

A durable barbell is essential for CrossFit, where movements like Olympic lifts, deadlifts, and power cleans frequently test the bar’s limits. 

One of the most important indicators of durability is tensile strength, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). 

For CrossFit barbells, a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI or higher is ideal. 

This ensures the bar can withstand heavy weights and high-impact movements without bending or breaking over time. 

Higher tensile strength also increases the bar’s longevity, making it suitable for long-term use in intense CrossFit workouts.

Spin Mechanism

The spin mechanism affects how smoothly the sleeves rotate, which is crucial for Olympic lifts like the clean and jerk and snatch. 

Barbells typically use either bushings or bearings in their sleeve assembly:

• Bushings: Found in most CrossFit barbells, bushings offer a balance of affordability and durability. They provide a smooth spin, making them great for high-rep workouts and general lifting.
  
• Bearings: Needle bearings deliver a much smoother and faster spin, making them ideal for Olympic lifting. While they’re more expensive, they’re the better choice for athletes focusing on precision lifts.

For most CrossFit athletes, bronze bushings or composite bushings provide the right combination of performance and durability.

Knurling

Knurling is the textured grip on a barbell that helps you maintain a secure hold during lifts. 

The type and aggressiveness of knurling can greatly affect your experience:

• Medium Knurling: A common feature on CrossFit barbells, medium knurling offers a balance of grip and comfort, making it suitable for high-rep workouts and heavy lifts.
  
• Aggressive Knurling: Provides a better grip for heavy lifting but may cause discomfort during high-rep training.
  
• Center Knurl: Some barbells include a center knurl for extra grip during squats, but it’s not essential for CrossFit athletes who focus on Olympic lifts and functional movements.

Look for a knurl pattern that complements your lifting style. For example, dual knurl markings are helpful if you switch between powerlifting and Olympic lifting.

Finish

The finish of a barbell affects both its appearance and its resistance to rust and corrosion. 

Common finishes include:

• Cerakote: A premium finish that offers excellent corrosion resistance and comes in various colors for customization.
• Zinc (Black or Bright): Provides moderate rust resistance and is more affordable than Cerakote.
• Black Oxide: Offers a natural feel but has limited rust resistance compared to other finishes.
• Bare Steel: Provides a great grip but requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.

If you’re training in a humid environment, prioritize a barbell with a finish that offers high corrosion resistance, such as Cerakote or stainless steel.

Bar Diameter and Weight

The diameter and weight of a barbell should meet standard specifications for CrossFit and Olympic lifting:

• Men’s Barbells: Typically have a 28mm shaft diameter and weigh 20kg (44lbs). This smaller diameter provides better whip and control during Olympic lifts.
  
• Women’s Barbells: Have a 25mm shaft diameter and weigh 15kg (33lbs). The smaller diameter allows for a better grip, especially for athletes with smaller hands.

These standard dimensions ensure consistency in training and competition while accommodating personal preferences and grip strength.

By considering these key features—durability, spin mechanism, knurling, finish, and dimensions—you’ll be better equipped to select the right barbell for your CrossFit workouts. 

A great barbell enhances performance, comfort, and longevity, making it an invaluable investment for your fitness journey.

How to Choose the Right Barbell for You

Choosing the right barbell depends on your skill level, budget, and how you plan to use it in your CrossFit workouts. 

Below, we break down the considerations by skill level to help you match the perfect barbell to your needs.

Beginners: Affordability and Versatility

If you’re just starting CrossFit, focus on finding a barbell that balances affordability and versatility. 

Barbells like the RitFit Olympic Barbell or the CAP Barbell Olympic Bar are excellent choices. 

Here’s why:

• Affordability: As a beginner, investing in an affordable barbell allows you to start training without a hefty upfront cost. Both RitFit and CAP provide solid performance without breaking the bank.
  
• Versatility: These barbells handle basic lifts like deadlifts, squats, and presses while offering moderate spin for beginner Olympic lifts.
  
• Durability for Light Loads: Most beginner-friendly barbells can withstand the lighter weights you’ll likely start with while you build strength and refine your technique.

If you’re training a few times a week and focusing on foundational movements, these barbells will meet your needs without overloading your budget.

Intermediate: Balance Quality and Budget

For intermediate CrossFit athletes, the focus shifts to higher-quality barbells that can handle heavier loads and more frequent use. 

Options like the Titan Fitness Performance Series Barbell and the REP Fitness Colorado Bar strike the right balance between performance and price.

• Increased Durability: Intermediate athletes typically lift heavier weights, so a barbell with higher tensile strength (190,000+ PSI) is a must.
  
• Improved Spin Mechanism: Bars with composite or bronze bushings, like the Titan Fitness and REP Fitness barbells, provide a smoother spin for better performance during Olympic lifts.
  
• Versatility for Diverse Workouts: These barbells are suitable for both functional movements and heavy lifts, offering a good grip and medium knurling for comfort during high-rep CrossFit workouts.

If you’re training multiple times a week and progressing in your lifts, investing in this category ensures your barbell grows with your skills.

Advanced: Premium Features for Peak Performance

Advanced CrossFit athletes require barbells that offer the highest quality, durability, and performance. 

Options like the Rogue Ohio Bar and Rogue Bella Bar 2.0 are designed for serious lifters aiming to optimize their performance.

• Premium Build: With features like high tensile strength (190,000–200,000 PSI) and needle bearings for a smooth spin, these barbells excel in handling Olympic lifts and heavy loads.
  
• Advanced Finishes: Finishes like Cerakote or stainless steel provide superior corrosion resistance and aesthetics, ensuring your barbell lasts a long time even in humid environments.
  
• Specialized Design: These barbells include unique features like dual knurl markings for powerlifting and Olympic lifting and a smaller diameter for a better grip during high-intensity sessions.

For advanced athletes training daily and tackling heavy lifts or competitive CrossFit workouts, these premium barbells deliver unmatched performance and durability.

Other Factors to Consider

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Beginners can start with an affordable price point, while intermediate and advanced athletes may prioritize long-term value over initial cost.
  
• Usage Frequency: If you’re training daily, invest in a durable barbell with high tensile strength and corrosion resistance.
  
• Specific Workout Types: For Olympic lifting, prioritize smooth spin and good whip. For heavy lifting, seek a bar with aggressive knurling and high load capacity.

By aligning your barbell choice with your skill level, workout goals, and budget, you’ll find the best option to enhance your CrossFit performance and support your fitness journey. 

Whether you’re just starting out or pushing your limits, the right barbell can make all the difference.

CrossFit Barbells FAQ

How much should I spend on a good barbell?

The amount you should spend on a barbell depends on your skill level and how often you plan to use it:

• Beginners: For those new to CrossFit or strength training, a good barbell in the $80–$150 price range is sufficient. Options like the CAP Barbell Olympic Bar offer reliability at an affordable price.
  
• Intermediate Athletes: If you’re training 3–5 times per week and lifting heavier weights, consider investing $150–$300. Barbells like the REP Fitness Colorado Bar provide better durability, smoother spin, and higher tensile strength.
  
• Advanced Lifters: For competitive or advanced CrossFit athletes, a premium barbell costing $300+—such as the Rogue Ohio Bar or Bella Bar—is ideal. These barbells offer premium features like high tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and exceptional spin.

Investing in a high-quality barbell can save you money in the long run, as it will withstand heavy usage and last for years.

What is tensile strength, and why does it matter?

Tensile strength measures how much stress a barbell can handle before bending or breaking. 

It’s expressed in PSI (pounds per square inch) and is a key indicator of durability.

• Why It Matters: CrossFit involves heavy loads and explosive movements like Olympic lifts, which place significant strain on the barbell. A bar with high tensile strength (190,000 PSI or higher) ensures it won’t warp or fail over time.
  
• Ideal Range: For CrossFit barbells, look for a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI or more to handle heavy weights and frequent use.

High tensile strength means your barbell can handle demanding workouts, ensuring safety and longevity.

Should I get a barbell with a center knurl?

The decision to get a barbell with a center knurl depends on your specific training needs:

• Yes, If You Squat Frequently: A center knurl helps the bar stay securely on your back during heavy back squats, making it ideal for lifters who perform heavy lifts regularly.
  
• No, If You Do High-Rep CrossFit Workouts: In CrossFit, the barbell often comes into contact with your chest and shoulders during movements like cleans or front squats. A center knurl can cause discomfort or skin irritation during high-rep workouts.

For most CrossFit athletes, a barbell without a center knurl—like the Rogue Ohio Bar—is the better choice, offering versatility for various movements.

What’s the difference between bushings and bearings?

Bushings and bearings are spin mechanisms that allow the sleeves of a barbell to rotate, reducing strain on your wrists during lifts:

• Bushings:
  • Made from composite materials, bronze, or other metals.
  • Provide a controlled, steady spin.
  • Ideal for powerlifting and general CrossFit workouts that don’t require rapid sleeve rotation.
  • Found in barbells like the REP Fitness Colorado Bar.
• Bearings:
  • Use needle or ball bearings for a faster, smoother spin.
  • Designed for Olympic lifts where precise, rapid rotation is essential.
  • Found in barbells like the Titan Fitness Performance Series.

Which to Choose? If you prioritize Olympic lifts, go with bearings for their superior spin. 

For versatile CrossFit workouts, bushings are typically more durable and cost-effective.

By understanding these features, you can confidently choose a barbell that fits your CrossFit training style and preferences.

Final Thoughts on The Best Barbells for CrossFit

Investing in a high-quality barbell tailored to your needs is crucial for optimizing your CrossFit training. 

Whether you’re looking for versatility with the Rogue Ohio Bar or a budget-friendly option like the CAP Barbell for beginners, the right barbell can significantly enhance your performance and ensure your safety during lifts. 

Prioritizing durability, performance, and overall value will help you make an informed decision that supports both your immediate goals and long-term progress.

No matter where you are in your CrossFit journey, a solid barbell is an essential piece of equipment for achieving strength and fitness goals. 

Check out the barbells mentioned above or explore more resources to find the perfect gear for your training needs.

Investing in quality now will pay off with improved results and a more efficient workout experience down the road.