We Found The Best Short Barbells For Your Home Gym In 2024

So you’ve decided to take the plunge and set up your own home gym—kudos to you!

But wait, you’re quickly realizing that standard Olympic barbells seem like overkill for your cozy space.

You’re not alone; many lifters are turning to short barbells as a space-saving alternative without sacrificing performance.

From the casual garage gym owner to the seasoned athlete, a shorter barbell offers a range of benefits.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best short barbells of 2024 to help you make an informed decision.

We’ll delve into specs, pros, cons, and everything you need to know to find the best short bar for your needs.

Let’s get started!

What Are The Best Short Barbells?

• Best Short Barbell Overall – GetRXD Shorty Olympic Bar
• Best Premium Short Barbell – Eleiko XF Short Bar
• Best Value Short Barbell – Fringe Sport Shorty Barbell
• Best Budget Short Bar – Titan 60″ Olympic Barbell
• Best Rackable Short Barbell – Rogue C-70S Bar
• Best Short Barbell For Women – Rogue C-68S
• Best 6ft Barbell – RAGE Fitness Olympic Barbell
• Best For Beginners – Rogue T-2.5 Technique Bar
• Best Barbell For Small Spaces – RitFit 4FT Olympic Barbell

Best Short Barbell Overall – GetRXD Shorty Olympic Bar

Specs

• Overall Length – 74″ (approx. 6.2 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 28 mm
• Weight Capacity – 800 lbs
• Material – 190K PSI strength steel
• Finish – Hard chrome coating
• Sleeve Length – 9.84″
• Handle Length – 52″
• Tensile Strength – 190K PSI
• Weight – 33 lbs
• Warranty – Lifetime Construction Warranty, 1 Year Bending Warranty

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Get RX’d Shorty Bar sets a new standard for short barbells with its incredible 800-weight capacity, making it an excellent choice for advanced lifters and professionals.

It’s constructed with 190K PSI strength steel, the same as the WOD bars, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

The hard chrome coating not only adds an aesthetic touch but also contributes to the bar’s durability.

One of the standout features of this bar is its ability to be racked in any standard squat rack, thanks to its 52-inch handle length.

This opens up the range of exercises you can perform, making it a versatile addition to your home gym.

Its dual knurl marks further add to its versatility, allowing for a secure and comfortable grip for both Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting.

While the bar has a sleeve length of 9.84 inches, this could limit the amount of weight you can load, especially if you are using thicker bumper plates.

However, this is a minor limitation considering the bar’s overall performance and features.

In summary, the Get RX’d Shorty Bar offers an impressive combination of high weight capacity, durability, and versatility, making it a strong contender for the best overall short barbell.

Its affordability makes it all the more appealing for anyone looking for a high-quality, space-saving solution for strength training.

If you’re looking to compare this bar with other standard barbells, check out our guide on the best barbells.

Best Premium Short Barbell – Eleiko XF Bar

Specs

• Shaft Diameter – 28 mm
• Finish – Hard Chrome
• Bar Weight – 20 kg
• Tensile Strength – 215,000 PSI
• Knurl Type – Medium
• Center Knurl – No
• Knurl Marks – Dual
• Rotation System – Combination of Bushings and Bearings
• Made In – Sweden
• Warranty – 12 Years

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Eleiko XF Short Bar is a premium option that brings a lot to the table.

With a tensile strength of 215,000 PSI and a hard chrome finish, this barbell is built for durability and a wide range of lifts.

The bar’s medium knurling ensures a comfortable yet secure grip, making it suitable for both Olympic weightlifting and high-rep training.

Unique features like a dustproof seal and a magnetic brush for cleaning make it stand out in terms of functionality and ease of maintenance.

The bar also boasts a 12-year warranty, indicative of its quality and durability.

However, the premium nature of this barbell means you’re gonna have to pay for it.

The absence of a center knurl might make certain lifts less secure, and the specific combination of bushings and bearings might not be ideal for everyone.

In summary, if you’re seeking a high-quality, versatile, and long-lasting barbell and are willing to invest in its premium features, the Eleiko XF Bar is an excellent choice.

For more on Olympic weightlifting barbells, visit our guide on the best Olympic weightlifting barbell.

Best Value Short Barbell – Fringe Sport Shorty Barbell

Specs

• Overall Length – 71 5/8 inches (just shy of 6 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 28 mm
• Weight Capacity – 2200 lbs
• Finish – Matte Chrome
• Sleeve Length – 8 7/16 inches
• Bar Weight – 15 kg (33 lbs)
• Tensile Strength – 216,200 PSI
• Yield Strength – 206,900 PSI
• Knurl Type – Medium
• Center Knurl – No
• Knurl Marks – Dual
• Rotation System – 4 Bronze Bushings
• Made In – Taiwan
• Warranty – Lifetime

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Fringe Sport Shorty Barbell emerges as an excellent value pick for those looking for a short barbell that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Designed for compact spaces, the barbell maintains a full-width shaft, allowing it to fit in all standard squat racks and even support a full snatch grip.

The bar’s tensile and yield strength are remarkable, ensuring that it will stand the test of time.

With a weight capacity tested to over 2200 pounds, it comfortably exceeds the needs of most home gym setups.

The matte chrome finish offers a rust-resistant coating, although it may not provide the same feel as non-plated finishes like bare steel.

However, the bar does have its limitations. The 8 7/16-inch sleeve length may restrict the amount of weight you can load, and the medium knurling might not suit everyone’s preferences.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a durable, high-quality, and affordable short barbell for limited spaces, the Fringe Sport Shorty Barbell is a top contender.

While it has some limitations, they are minor and easily outweighed by the bar’s strengths. It’s a robust, versatile, and cost-effective choice for any home gym.

Best Budget Short Bar – Titan 60″ Olympic Barbell

Specs

• Overall Length – 60″ (5 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 28 mm
• Weight Capacity – Up to 500 lbs
• Finish – Chrome for both shaft and sleeve
• Sleeve Length – 10.75″
• Product Weight – 25 lbs
• Bushings/Bearings – Bronze Bushing
• Tensile Strength – 110,000 PSI

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Titan 60″ Olympic Barbell stands out as an excellent budget-friendly option, particularly suitable for those new to weightlifting or those looking for a compact bar for specific exercises.

Its price point of $99.99 makes it one of the most accessible bars on the market without compromising on essential features.

One of its most notable features is its surprising weight capacity of 500 lbs. This makes it suitable for a broader range of lifters, from beginners to intermediate athletes.

The medium diamond knurling ensures a secure grip, which is essential for effective lifting.

However, the bar does have its limitations. It is not rackable, which restricts its utility for exercises that would benefit from a squat or bench press rack.

Additionally, the absence of a center knurl or any knurl marks could be a downside for those who rely on these features for grip and positioning.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, high-capacity barbell that offers versatility for a range of lifts, the Titan 60″ Olympic Barbell is a strong contender.

Just bear in mind its limitations, particularly if you require a rackable bar or specific knurling features.

For more on Titan Fitness, visit my guide here.

Best Rackable Short Barbell – Rogue C-70S Bar

Specs

• Overall Length – 72″ (6 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 28.5 mm
• Material – American steel
• Finish – Black Cerakote shaft and bright zinc sleeves
• Sleeve Length – 8.875″
• Product Weight – 15kg
• Bushings/Bearings – Black Composite Bushings
• Tensile Strength – 190,000 PSI
• Warranty – Lifetime against bending
• Made in – USA

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Rogue C-70S Bar stands out as the go-to choice for those seeking a short, rackable barbell.

This American-made bar offers exceptional quality, durability, and versatility.

Its rackability opens up a multitude of exercise options, making it a unique offering in the world of short barbells.

Constructed from high-quality American steel with a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, this bar is cut out for durability and heavy lifting.

The Black Cerakote finish on the shaft not only adds to the bar’s aesthetic appeal but also provides an extra layer of protection against corrosion and wear.

However, the bar does have limitations. Its premium features come at a higher price point, which may not be accessible to everyone.

The loadable sleeve length of 8.875″, while rackable, might be limiting for those looking to load up on multiple plates.

Also, the absence of a center knurl could be an issue for some lifters.

In summary, if you are in the market for a top-of-the-line, rackable short barbell, the Rogue C-70S Bar is well worth the investment.

It comes with premium features and lifetime warranty assurance, making it a long-term investment for serious lifters.

Just keep in mind the price tag and whether the sleeve length and absence of a center knurl meet your specific needs.

For more on Rogue Fitness products, check out our comprehensive guide here.

Best Short Barbell For Women – ROGUE C-68S Bar

Specs

• Overall Length – 68.25″ (Approx. 5.6 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 25 mm
• Finish – Black Cerakote shaft and bright zinc sleeves
• Sleeve Length – 7.75″
• Product Weight – 25 lbs
• Bushings/Bearings – Bronze Bushings
• Tensile Strength – 190,000 PSI
• Warranty – Lifetime against bending
• Made in – USA
• Price – $280.00

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Rogue C-68S Bar stands out as an exceptional choice for women seeking a high-quality, versatile short barbell.

Designed with a 25 mm diameter, it offers a more comfortable grip for women or anyone with smaller hands.

The bar’s rackability further adds to its versatility, allowing for a broader range of exercises like snatches and overhead squats.

Constructed from high-quality American steel with a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, this bar is cut out for durability and heavy lifting.

The Black Cerakote finish on the shaft adds both aesthetic appeal and an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.

However, the bar does come with limitations. Priced at $280, it may not be within reach for everyone.

The 7.75-inch loadable sleeve length, while rackable, could be limiting for those who want to load multiple plates.

Additionally, the absence of a center knurl may not be ideal for some lifters.

In summary, if you are a woman looking for a premium, rackable short barbell, the Rogue C-68S is an excellent investment.

It offers high-quality features and a lifetime warranty against bending.

However, consider whether the price, sleeve length and absence of a center knurl align with your needs.

Best 6ft Barbell – RAGE Fitness 6′ Olympic Barbell

Specs

• Overall Length – 6 feet
• Shaft Diameter – 28mm
• Weight Capacity – 300 lbs
• Material – High-quality aluminum
• Finish – Chrome
• Product Weight – 16 lbs
• Bushings/Bearings – Brass bushings
• Warranty – 1-year warranty against defects
• Price – $109.99

Pros

Cons

Summary

The RAGE Fitness Olympic Barbell is an excellent choice for those looking for a 6-foot barbell on a budget.

The bar is made from high-quality aluminum, making it lightweight and easy to handle.

The chrome finish provides a sleek look and an additional layer of protection against wear and tear.

The bar offers some unique features like extra thick brass bushings for smooth rotation, which can be particularly helpful for exercises requiring a quick transition from one movement to another.

This makes it versatile enough for a wide range of exercises, from basic lifts to more advanced routines.

However, it’s essential to note the bar’s limitations.

The 300 lb weight capacity might not be sufficient for advanced lifters, and the aluminum construction, while durable, might not offer the rigidity required for lifting at higher weights.

The absence of specific information on sleeve length may also indicate limited space for loading plates.

In conclusion, the RAGE Fitness Olympic Barbell is a good starting point for those looking for a budget-friendly, versatile 6-foot barbell.

However, if you’re planning on heavy lifting, you might need to consider other options.

Best for Beginners – Rogue T-2.5 Technique Bar

Specs

• Overall Length – 51″ (approximately 4.25 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 22.2mm
• Weight Capacity – 40 lbs
• Material – Aluminum
• Finish – Bare Aluminum / Anodized
• Sleeve Length – 4.125″
• Product Weight – 2.5kg (approximately 5.5 lbs)
• Bushings/Bearings – Bearings
• Warranty – Construction
• Price – $150.00

Pros

Cons

Summary

The Rogue T-2.5 Technique Bar is specifically designed for young athletes and beginners.

The bar’s lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to handle, which is especially beneficial for kids or those new to lifting.

It includes needle bearings, a feature rarely seen in children’s barbells, providing a smooth and consistent spin that aids in technique training.

However, it’s important to consider some of the bar’s limitations.

The maximum load capacity is just 40 lbs, meaning it’s not suitable for heavy lifting or more advanced exercises.

The price is also relatively high at $150, which might be a consideration for parents or beginners who are not yet committed to a long-term training program.

In conclusion, if you are a young athlete or a parent looking for a training bar for a child, the Rogue T-2.5 Technique Bar is a high-quality, albeit expensive, option.

It’s a great tool for learning proper technique but is not designed for heavy lifting.

Best Barbell for Small Spaces – RitFit 4FT Olympic Barbell

Specs

• Overall Length – 47.2″ (approximately 4 feet)
• Shaft Diameter – 25mm
• Weight Capacity – 350 lbs
• Material – Alloy Steel
• Finish – Chrome
• Sleeve Length – 7.9″
• Bar Weight – 17.5 lbs
• Price – $99.99
• Warranty – Lifetime

Pros

Cons

Summary

The RitFit 4FT Olympic Barbell is an excellent choice for those with space limitations.

Despite its compact size, the bar doesn’t skimp on features. It has a surprising 350 lb weight capacity, making it more versatile than one might expect for such a small bar.

Additionally, the bar is priced at just $99.99 and comes with a lifetime warranty, providing excellent value for the money.

However, there are some limitations to be aware of.

The 7.9-inch sleeve length limits the amount of weight that can be loaded, and its non-rackable nature restricts the types of exercises you can perform with it.

The bar is made of standard alloy steel, which, while durable, is not considered a premium material.

In conclusion, if you’re constrained by space and are looking for a versatile, affordable barbell, the RitFit 4FT Olympic Barbell is a strong contender.

Just be aware of its limitations, particularly if you plan on progressing to heavier lifts.

What Are Short Barbells?

Benefits Of Short Barbells

When it comes to weightlifting and barbell training, size does matter, but perhaps not in the way you think.

While standard Olympic barbells have their place, they aren’t always the most practical option for everyone.

Enter the short barbell—a compact powerhouse that’s making waves in home gyms and specialized fitness routines.

Whether you’re confined by limited space, are a young athlete, a beginner, or even a woman looking for a more manageable grip, short barbells offer unique advantages that you might not have considered.

In this section, we’ll delve deep into the myriad benefits of short barbells, from their space-saving design to their surprising versatility.

Space-Saving

For garage gym owners who have limited space, short barbells are a game-changer.

They usually range between 4 to 6 feet, making them much easier to store than a standard 7-foot Olympic barbell.

This condensed size means you can fit your barbell into tight spaces, be it a small room, garage, or even a closet.

The compact nature of short barbells allows you to maintain a dedicated workout area without overwhelming your living space.

Additionally, their shorter length makes them easier to maneuver, so you can move them around without bumping into walls or other equipment.

If you’re in an apartment or have a multi-purpose room, a short barbell lets you enjoy a full workout without dominating the room.

Young Athletes

For young athletes still in their developmental stages, safety and manageability are paramount.

Short barbells offer a more proportional and manageable weight and length, making them safer for younger users.

Standard barbells may be too long for a child’s wingspan, making certain exercises awkward or even risky.

Short barbells, with their reduced length and weight, allow for better control and a more secure grip, making them an excellent introductory barbell for young lifters.

Beginner-Friendly

Starting a new fitness routine can be daunting, especially when the equipment itself seems intimidating.

The sheer size and weight of a standard barbell can be off-putting for beginners.

Short barbells alleviate this issue by offering a more manageable size and often a lighter weight.

This accessibility allows beginners to focus on learning proper technique without the intimidation factor.

They can also more easily practice Olympic lifts without the fear of handling too much weight too soon.

Suitable for Women

Not all women have the same strength or hand size as men, making the smaller grip diameter of short barbells a more comfortable option.

Many women find it easier to maintain a secure grip on a short barbell, leading to a more effective and safer workout.

Plus, the lighter weight and more manageable size make it easier to perform a wide range of exercises, from squats to overhead presses, without the need for a spotter.

Specific Exercises

Even if you’re an experienced lifter, a short barbell can be a useful addition to your equipment arsenal.

They are especially effective for exercises like bicep curls, tricep extensions, and rows, where a full-length bar can be unwieldy.

In fact, their size can actually make certain exercises more challenging by requiring greater stabilization.

Additionally, if you’re into functional fitness or CrossFit, the compact size of short barbells allows for quicker transitions between exercises, keeping the intensity high.

RELATED – Best Curl Bars

Decent Weight Capacity

You might think that a short barbell can’t handle much weight, but you’d be surprised.

Many models offer a weight capacity ranging from 300 to 500 lbs, which is more than enough for the majority of garage gym workouts.

This makes them a viable option for intermediate lifters who want to go heavy on certain exercises but are restricted by space.

It’s also beneficial for those who are working on strength gains but don’t necessarily need the length and weight capacity of a standard Olympic bar.

Cost Savings

Last but not least, short barbells are generally more affordable than their full-length counterparts.

This cost-effectiveness makes them an appealing choice for home gym setups, particularly for those on a budget.

You can get a quality short barbell for a fraction of the cost of a standard Olympic bar, allowing you to allocate funds to other essential equipment like weights, racks, and benches.

In summary, short barbells offer a versatile and practical solution for a wide range of users, from young athletes to seasoned pros, and from those with space constraints to those on a budget.

They allow you to enjoy the benefits of barbell training without the limitations that come with a standard bar.

How To Choose A Short Barbell

Selecting from all of the small barbells available can be overwhelming with the various options available.

However, knowing what to look for can narrow down your choices and help you make an informed decision.

Let’s take an in-depth look at the key factors you should consider.

Barbell Shaft Length

The shaft length is the distance between the inner sides of the collars on the barbell.

This length determines how much space you have for your grip, which can be critical for exercises like the bench press, squats, and deadlifts.

For most people, a shaft length of 30 to 40 inches will provide adequate room for a comfortable grip and the ability to engage in various exercises.

Sleeve Length

The sleeve length is another vital consideration. This is the part of the barbell where you load the weight plates.

A longer sleeve allows you to add more weight, which is crucial for those looking to build strength progressively.

Generally, a sleeve length of at least 8 to 10 inches is recommended to accommodate multiple weight plates, making your barbell versatile for different strength training levels.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is a crucial factor, especially for those who are more advanced in their lifting journey or plan to get there.

Most quality short barbells have a weight capacity that ranges from 300 to 500 lbs, providing plenty of room for growth as you become stronger.

Always choose a barbell that can handle a bit more than your current lifting weight to ensure longevity and safety.

Plate Compatibility

Before making your purchase, ensure that the barbell is compatible with the weight plates you already own or plan to buy.

While most short barbells are designed to fit Olympic plates, it’s always a good idea to confirm this to avoid any compatibility issues down the line.

Knurling Type

Knurling is the pattern of diagonal lines etched into the bar to improve grip.

Some individuals prefer a more aggressive knurling for a secure grip, especially for heavy lifting, while others may find moderate knurling to be sufficient.

The type of knurling can also impact how comfortable the bar feels in your hands during prolonged workouts.

Grip Diameter

The diameter of the barbell’s shaft can significantly affect your grip and, by extension, your lifting experience.

A diameter that’s too large can make it hard to maintain a secure grip, while one that’s too small may not provide enough tension for effective lifting.

Generally, a diameter of around 25-28.5 mm is suitable for most people.

Bushings or Bearings

Bushings are usually adequate for general lifting and provide a cost-effective option.

However, if you are into Olympic weightlifting, which requires a smoother and faster spin, a barbell with bearings might be a better choice.

Manufacturing Origin

While not a deal-breaker for everyone, some people prefer barbells made in countries with high manufacturing standards like the USA.

This is often linked to perceived higher quality and ethical labor practices.

Material Quality

Look for a barbell made from high-quality steel, as this will generally be more durable and able to handle more weight.

Some high-end bars also come with corrosion-resistant coatings like chrome, zinc, or even cerakote, which can extend the life of your barbell.

Durability

Durability is a composite of several factors, including material quality, finish, and tensile strength.

A bar with high tensile strength (measured in PSI) will be more resilient against bending and breaking, ensuring that it lasts longer.

Warranty

Always check the warranty when purchasing a barbell. A longer warranty often indicates a manufacturer’s confidence in a product’s durability and quality.

Lift Versatility

Consider your workout routine and the exercises you plan to do.

Some bars are more versatile than others, allowing for a greater range of lifts, from Olympic lifts to powerlifting to bodybuilding exercises.

Barbell Weight

The bar’s own weight can be a factor, especially for beginners or those rehabbing from an injury. Lighter bars are generally easier to handle and can be a good starting point.

Available Space

Your available space can dictate the length of the barbell you choose. Make sure the bar fits comfortably in your workout area without limiting your movement or exercise range.

Price Range

Finally, budget is always a consideration. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that you often get what you pay for.

Aim to find a barbell that meets your needs and is within your budget, but don’t compromise on essential features like material quality and weight capacity.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed choice, ensuring that the barbell you choose will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In the ever-growing landscape of fitness equipment, short barbells have carved out a niche that caters to a wide range of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Whether you’re constrained by space, just starting your fitness journey, or looking for a barbell that suits specific needs, there’s likely a short barbell that’s perfect for you.

Have you used any of the short barbells we’ve discussed? What was your experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Until next time,

-Dante