The 15 Best Barbell Collars Of 2023 – Reviews And Buying Guide
Use these gym gears to maintain your posture and balance while lifting weights.
Chandel StallworthNCPT, CPT, CES
Expertise: Pilates, Strength Training, and Corrective Exercise
Experience: 4 years
Chandel is a Nationally Certified Pilates Instructor, Personal Trainer, Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist, and the owner of Curls & Pilates, a fitness company. She has 4 years of experience and trains some of the top n... more
Aditi Naskar Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 years
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She i... more
Expertise: Fitness & Lifestyle
Experience: 3 years
Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication fro... more
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When it comes to lifting heavy weights, there is a dire need to own the best barbell collars. As convenient as it is to use gym gears for shaping your body, it needs to be done with safety and precaution. This is why investing in barbell collars never goes in vain. These clamps prevent the heavy plates from falling and injuring you, and they also help you maintain a good posture by distributing the weight equally. If the multiple choice in online stores confuses you, go through our list of the top barbell collars to make your gym experience perfect.
In This Article
15 Best Barbell Collars Of 2023
1. Clout Fitness Olympic Size Barbell Clamp Collars
Image: Clout Fitness The Clout Fitness Olympic Size Barbell Clamp Collars are made of stainless steel. These are extremely durable Olympic barbell collars that give an ultra-tight grip. The barbell collar features a single-lever design with a locking latch that offers a strong hold. The latch eliminates unnecessary moving of parts and improves the longevity of the collars.
Removing these collars is also easy. You can place your fingers firmly underneath the collar and pull the lever upwards. The lever clicks to “locked” and “unlocked” positions to signal if the collar is ready to be used or removed. These come in pairs and are available in different colors. They can slip into your gym bag easily.
Pros
- Stainless steel pins for durability
- Rubber pads to keep the collars firmly in place
- Collars don’t crack or warp under pressure.
- Can withstand heavy loads
- Firm grip
- Clicks to “lock” and “unclock”
- Easy to remove
- Available in various colors
- Portable
Cons
- Fragile
- May slide.
- Tough to get them locked.
Pro Tip2. Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Clamps
Image: Dark Iron Fitness The Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Clamps come with a pair of olympic-sized weight barbell collars. These clamps have a quick-release spring lock which helps hold weight on bars. These are made from high-impact polyester, and hold the weight plates firmly without shifting or wobbling. The clamps also do not form rust or lose tension. The sleek design prevents fumbling with awkward barbell collars in between the sets. These weight clips for bars slide quickly and make it easier for you to switch from benching to deadlift without the loss of momentum. Each of these weight clamps has a spring-loaded lock to ensure safety. The barbell collars are convenient for strength training anywhere, either at the gym or at home, thereby making the product portable. The lock system in the barbells are lever-operated and made up of lightweight, high-impact polyester. These barbell clamps are easy to use irrespective of hand size or strength. These collars also come with a rubber strip, offering a sturdier grip on the bar. The plates do not slide around the bar, even if a lot of weight is packed on it. This barbell clamp can be a good substitute for outdated spring barbell collars.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Sleek design
- User-friendly
- Portable
Cons
None
3. WARM BODY COLD MIND Premium 2 Inch Olympic Barbell Clamps
Image: Warm Body Cold Mind The WARM BODY COLD MIND Premium 2 Inch Olympic Barbell Clamps fit all 2-inch olympic standard barbells. They are the best for all kinds of strength training including weightlifting, powerlifting, deadlift, workout, garage gym, fitness, bench presses, and other forms of exercises. These clamps come with a secured quick-release mechanism which makes workouts easier. The upgraded solid system prevents rattling of the weight plates. These powerlifting barbell collars are lightweight and portable. These crash-tested barbell collars and snap clips are easy and safe to use as they are made with premium durable and long lasting scratch-resistant material.
Pros
- Quick-release mechanism
- Upgraded solid system
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- Scratch-resistant
Cons
None
4. Prosource Fit Olympic Barbell Clamp Collars
Image: Prosource Fit The Prosource Fit Olympic Barbell Clamp Collars are designed for use with any 2-inch Olympic barbell. With a quick and easy snap-lock design, these collars can be installed and removed effortlessly. The durable construction ensures that the collars lock securely, allowing you to switch plates between sets quickly and easily. They are made with reinforced polymer and rubber inserts that make them both durable and gentle on your barbell. They will not scratch or damage the bar, making them suitable for use in the home, gym, and commercial fitness settings. The lightweight yet dense design of these collars provides a secure grip, keeping your weights in place during your workout.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Quick release clamp design
- Easy to install
- Easy to remove
- Locks in securely
- Available in 6 colors
Cons
None
5. Lock-Jaw OLY 2 Olympic Barbell Collars – Best Value For Money
Image: Lock-jaw Barbell Collars The Lock-Jaw OLY 2 Olympic Barbell Collars have a unique design. These hexagon-shaped, durable, and sturdy gym barbell collars have a diameter of 2” and a larger lever to ensure tight lock and a safe workout. The uni-body design ensures easy installation and removal of the barbell collars during workouts.
The one-of-a-kind elastomer pads and resin frames protect the bar and plates from damage. This pair of strong Olympic barbell collars are suitable for all 2″ or 50 mm Olympic bars. You can easily carry them in your gym bag and use them at the gym or your home. The collars are available in different colors.
Pros
- New design
- Super strong and sturdy
- Heavy collars
- Larger lever ensures tight lock and safe workout.
- Easy installation and removal
- Does not hurt the hand while locking and unlocking the collar.
- Elastomer pads and resin frames protect the bar and plates from damage.
- Easy to carry
- Available in different colors
- Great value for money
Cons
- Expensive
Quick Tip6. CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Spring Clip Collars
Image: Cap Barbell Elevate your weightlifting game with the CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Spring Clip Collars. They are designed to fit Olympic-sized barbells and offer a secure and reliable solution for your weight plates. The spring mechanism allows for quick and easy installation and removal, saving you valuable time during your workouts. The durable construction is built to last, ensuring that you can use these collars for years to come. The compact and lightweight design of weightlifting barbell collars makes them easy to transport, perfect for gym goers and athletes on the go. With these collars, you can trust that your weights will stay securely in place, allowing you to focus on your workout and reach your fitness goals.
Pros
- Secure fit
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Easy to install and remove
- Comfortable grip handles
Cons
- May be a bit difficult to squeeze
7. Lock-Jaw HEX Olympic Barbell Collar
Image: Lock-jaw Barbell Collars If you are on the lookout for durable and lightweight Olympic barbell collars, these collars from Lock-Jaw could be your best bet. The proprietary dual-compound construction and unique design make them extremely effective and portable. You can easily clamp and unclamp them during a workout.
These 2” inch barbell collars fit 50 mm barbells and ensure safety while you do overhead presses, deadlifts, Olympic heavy lifting with bumper plates, powerlifting, or CrossFit training. The rounded edges ensure a good grip with the hand and also do not hurt the hand while locking and unlocking. They are portable and can be used at the gym or at home.
Pros
- Fit 50 mm barbells
- Dual-compound construction
- Durable and lightweight
- Unique design with rounded edges for firm hand grip
- Do not hurt the hand.
- Easy to unclamp and clamp
- Ensure safety during workout
- Suitable for powerlifting, heavy lifting with bumper plates, CrossFit training, overhead presses, etc.
- Portable
- Available in attractive colors
Cons
- Not completely slide-resistant.
- Not suitable for heavier and multiple weight plates.
8. Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Collar Clamps
Image: Dark Iron Fitness Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Collar Clamps for barbells are a superior alternative to the spring clamps. They also have a unique design. They are made of extremely high-impact, molded polyester, and are rust-resistant. The collars slide easily on the barbell, and the spring-loaded one-click locking system ensures secure and safe workouts.
These collars have a 2” diameter and feature a rubber strip inside that reinforces grip on the barbells and makes them slide-resistant. These clamps do not scratch the bar or lose tension over time. You can use these at home or at the gym as these fit any Olympic barbell.
Pros
- Made of extremely high-impact, molded polyester
- Fit all Olympic barbells
- Slide easily on the barbell
- Spring-loaded one-click locking system
- Rust-resistant
- Rubber strip reinforces a tight grip on the barbell.
- Slide-resistant
- Do not scratch the bar or lose tension over time.
- Portable
- Suitable for all heavy lifting
Cons
- It maybe a tad bit difficult to release and take off the collars.
- Not totally slide-resistant.
9. CAP Barbell Olympic Spring Clip Collars
Image: Cap Barbell The CAP Barbell Olympic Spring Clip Collars are made of stainless steel and have a Spring Tension locking mechanism. These are the old-style clamps. These are 1” in diameter, weigh 1.3 pounds, and hold up to 2 weight plates. You can easily clamp them on the outside of the weight plate. The spring clamps ensure the weight plates does not slide.
Pros
- Made of stainless steel
- Spring Tension locking mechanism
- Hold up to 2 weight plates
- Easy to clamp and take off
- Prevent sliding
- Keep the weight plates stable
Cons
- Not suitable for heavier weights.
10. DMoose Olympic Barbell Clips
Image: Dmoose For a secure and seamless weightlifting experience, try the DMoose Olympic Barbell Clips. These high-end and durable clips feature anti-slide rubber pads for added safety and stability during use. With a quick-release barbell collar mechanism, they are effortless to operate, making them ideal for bodybuilding and powerlifting. The clips come in two sizes, 1 inch and 2 inches, and keep weights steady and locked in place, eliminating any annoying rattling. With a snug fit, they prevent any hazards associated with moving or rattling weights. Experience uninterrupted workout sessions with the DMoose Olympic Barbell Clips.
Pros
- Best for bodybuilding and powerlifting
- Snug fit around the bars
- Quick-release locking mechanism
- Anti-slide rubber padding
- Durable and high-end material
- Suitable for all types of lifts
- No rattling or movements of the weight plates
- No risks of accidents
Cons
- The grip gets loose over the months
11. Iron Bull Strength Barbell Collars V2
Image: Iron Bull Strength The Iron Bull Strength Barbell Collars V2 is a classic spring clamp design that is easy to lock in and release. These 2-inch collars can easily fit any standard Olympic barbell size for quick and convenient plate changes during your workout. With a smooth nylon surface, these collars will not damage your plates or barbell, even with repeated use. They are perfect for weightlifting and Olympic lifts and hence, are also great for cross-training, strength training, and group exercises. Their one-click lock design and snap-latch jaw design ensure maximum grip, stability, and safety during your workout. They are made with high-quality materials and are suitable for use in both home and commercial gyms.
Pros
- Versatile use
- Nylon surface covering
- No damage coverage
- Maximum grip
- Powered snap-latch jaw
- Fits any standard Olympic barbell
- Can withstand heavy loads
- Quick and easy lock-in
- Collars don’t crack or warp under pressure
- Easy to remove
- Available in 10 colors
Cons
- None
- Not quite durable
12. Synergee Aluminum Barbell Collars
Image: Synergee The Synergee Aluminum Barbell Collars are made from durable and lightweight aluminum and have a rubberized lining that ensures a strong hold while protecting the bar. The grip pad runs the circumference of the bar and provides an even, locked-in support for this non-slip barbell collar. These weight lifting collars are 2” in diameter and fit securely around the barbells to provide a resilient and safe workout. The collars help keep the bumper plates in place.
The solid yet simple lock is easy to use. You can quickly change the weight plates on your barbell while you workout for maximum gains. These lightweight Olympic barbell collars are easily transportable and can be used at the gym or at home.
Pros
- Made of durable and lightweight aluminum
- Firm grip
- Slip-resistant
- Grip pad runs the circumference for even weight distribution.
- Keep the bumper plates in place
- Simple and easy to use lock system
- Weight plates can be changed easily and quickly.
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- May not close securely.
- Sliding them in the barbell can be tough.
13. MCR Strength Muscle Clamps
The MCR Strength Muscle Clamps are a high-pressure locking system for maintaining heavyweight plates on a barbell. The heavy-duty barbell collars also prevent sliding and slipping. These are constructed of durable nylon and have a smooth, round design. With one single snap, you can lock these strength training barbell collars and get a safe and secure workout. These weigh 1 ounce each and can be transported easily. They are perfect for heavy lifting, overhead presses, deadlifts, and CrossFit training.
Pros
- Made of durable nylon
- High-pressure locking system
- Single click locking system
- Easy to release the lock
- Smooth, circular design
- Slide-resistant
- Portable
- Good for heavy lifting, overhead presses, deadlifts, and CrossFit training.
- Available in different colors
Cons
- Not suitable for barbell squats.
14. Black Mountain Products Quick Release Barbell Clamps
Image: Black Mountain Products The Black Mountain Products Quick Release Barbell Clamps are a pair of clasps with olympic-standard 2-inch collars. The products are easy to install and remove even for beginners. These are perfect for any kind of bar workout. The clasps are strongly-built, which can be easily locked and unlocked, thereby enabling the user to change plates faster. The clamps are made of durable rubber to ensure high-quality grip. The quick release system and safety locking mechanism make the products more user-friendly. They are available in black, green and blue colors.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Beginning-friendly
- No-slip grip
- Safety lock mechanism
- Quick-release system
- Available in green, black and blue.
Cons
None
15. SnapClips Barbell Collars
Image: Snapclips These are the strap barbell collars whose diameter can be adjusted from 1.5” to 2.5”. Therefore, these can fit any Olympic barbell. You can quickly and easily use them just by snapping them on, curling them, and locking them. The silicone grip is durable ,and the velcro lock secures the collars in place and prevent them from sliding.
The Kevlar fabric on the silicone grip makes it smooth to touch. These adjustable barbell collars are lightweight, portable, and easy to store. These locking barbell collars are break-resistant and can be used again and again. These are great for CrossFit training, deadlifts, powerlifting, or any training using a barbell.
Pros
- Strap barbell collars
- Fit all barbells, EZ curl bars, or other weight lifting equipment.
- Silicone grip
- Snap, curl, and lock system
- Kevlar fabric for extra durability and smooth to touch.
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to store anywhere
- Break-resistant
- Easy to use compared to barbell clamps
- Can be reused multiple times
Cons
- May not be completely slip-resistant.
These are the 15 best Olympic barbell collars of 2023. But before you make your purchase, here are a few things you must know.
Do You Really Need A Barbell Collar?
Yes, you must get a barbell collar if you want to do heavy lifting. Barbell collars help evenly distribute the weights of the plate and prevent the plates from falling off the bar. Moreover, these ensure a reduced risk of lower back injury by helping you maintain correct posture. The weight lifting collars also help make the workout environment safe and secure for you and others.
How To Use A Barbell Collar
If you have never used a barbell collar, the following tips can help. We have mentioned the four types of barbell collars and how you can use them:
- Snap Lock Barbell Collar – Slide the collar in the bar. Make sure the weight plates are closely aligned. Push down the lock to hear a click. And it’s locked!
- Clamp Barbell Collar – Slide in the clamp, ensure the weight plates are aligned close together, pull the handles of the weight clamps on the opposite side to tighten the hold.
- Pressure Barbell Collar – Slide in the collar, ensure the weight plates are aligned close together, and tighten the two wing nuts on the metal rod manually to lock it.
- Spin-lock Barbell Collar – Spin and unlock the spin-lock. Slide them in the bar. Spin them together to tighten and lock.
Before you buy a pair of barbell collars, you need to check for a few factors. Read the following section.
How To Choose The Right Barbell Collar
Here is a list of things to keep in mind before buying a good barbell collar:
- Diameter – A diameter of at least 2” will ensure the lock fits any barbell.
- Lock – Choose a barbell collar that has a clamp, snap, or pressure lock.
- Slide-Resistant – Check if the clamp or snap-lock has a good grip and does not slide.
- Price – Get a quality barbell collar that is priced at a higher range to ensure safety.
The Bottom Line
Weight training is brilliant for building strength, maintaining a healthy weight, improving heart health, and many more. But before diving into lifting heavier and heavier weights, you must take care of safety first. Barbell collars hold your weights in position and save you and the people around you from accidental injuries. The barbell collars on our list are long-lasting and easy to install and remove. The Clout Fitness Olympic Size Barbell Clamp Collars have a durable construction and easy-to-use design. The WARM BODY COLD MIND Premium 2 Inch Olympic Barbell Clamps offer premium quality and a strong grip. The Prosource Fit Olympic Barbell Clamp Collars provide effective snap-locking for Olympic weight plates.
They have durable locks and a smooth finish that does not hurt your hands. Read the reviews well to buy the best barbell collars to enhance your gymming experience.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar, the author of this article, has a diploma in health and wellness and is an expert on all things fitness. She scoured through many reviews to find the best barbell collars for you. She chose these products based on their diameter, slide-resistance, locking mechanism, and cost-effectiveness, so that you can have a safe and enhanced workout experience without accidental injuries
Frequently Asked Questions
How heavy are barbell collars?
The Olympics standard weight of barbell collars is 5.5lbs.
How do you tighten a barbell collar?
The best way to tighten a barbell collar is to twist the outermost plate in a clockwise direction without turning the bar.
How do you remove a barbell plate?
Remove the collars from the plates. Then use one arm to hold the bar steady while you carefully slide the plates off from the bar. Make sure that the plates do not fall on each other as you slide them off.
How do you lift a barbell off the rack?
The best way is to externally rotate the arms of the bar to loosen the ends and pull out the barbells carefully off the rack.
How do you use a barbell collar?
Use barbell collars to tighten the plates and keep them in place. If you use barbell collars, the secured plates do not rattle while you perform the hardest of exercises.
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