We compared 45 barbells against 12 criteria critical for CrossFit, and we chose 5 proverbial kings of the WOD.
Finding the best CrossFit barbell sounds simple enough, right?
Oh, you have no idea. It’s anything but…I used every iota of my two-decade-long experience to separate true quality from the murky underbelly of the industry (and it exists…I’ll prove it before this guide is over).
Our common goal today is three-fold:
- Objectively compare CrossFit barbells – in a way driven by data, testing, and experience.
- Find value for money and avoid paying for ornate industry lingo.
- Find top barbells in all price ranges…so we have you covered whatever your budget.
Let’s see if we did a good job…
Related
We test and rate other home gym stuff, so you might wanna check out our guides on other CrossFit must-haves like top-performing knee sleeves.
If you’re just starting out with your gym, you might be interested in our guides on the basics, like top squat racks and best weight benches, or guide on gym-flooring choices.
Editor’s note: This guide was last updated in January 2025. Actually, “Overhaul” is a better word because we changed a lot – both in the rating formula and the number of top picks. There are two reasons for that – simplification and a changing market.
The biggest change is at the very top – Rogue Ohio replaced the Rogue 2.0 as the top pick because they started using RWH (Rogue Work Hardening…more on that in a minute) on the stainless steel version. Also, some of our previous favorites lost their top spots…like the Fringe Wonder and the CAP Beast.
A lot is going on here…strap in…
We also tweaked the ratings to put more emphasis on versatility – upped the gravity of that factor group from 25 to 33.
Compare the best Crossfit bars
Best for | Overall | Budget | Premium | Women | Amazon |
Rating (*) | |||||
Quality | 93% | 88% | 93% | 90% | 73% |
Versatility | 95% | 90% | 98% | 87% | 89% |
Brand & reputation | 93% | 85% | 91% | 90% | 78% |
Price | 68% | 88% | 58% | 77% | 94% |
Bar type | Multipurpose | Multipurpose | Multipurpose | Multipurpose | Multipurpose |
Bushing/ bearing | Bronze Bushings | Hybrid | Bronze Bushings | Bronze Bushings | Hybrid |
Bar diameter (mm) | 28.5 | 28 | 28.5 | 25 | 28 |
Length (") | 86.75 | 86.6 | 86.75 | 79.13 | 86.6 |
Loadable sleeve length (") | 16.4 | 16 | 16.5 | 13 | 16.4 |
Knurl | Multi | Medium | Multi | Multi | Medium |
Knurl Marks | Dual | Dual | Dual | Dual | Dual |
Center knurl | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Shaft coating | Cerakote Red | Black Zinc | Black Cerakote | Cerakote Black or Red | Black Hard Chrome |
Sleeve coating | Proprietary Matte Black | Black Zinc | Cerakote or Proprietary Matte Black | Chrome or Proprietary Matte Black | Chrome |
Tensile strength (k PSI) | 190 | 235 | 200 | 190 | 200 |
Rackable? | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 10-year |
Bar weight (lbs) | 44 | 45 | 45 | 33.1 | 44 |
Sleeve size (") | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Price | $$$ | $$ | $$$$ | $$ | $ |
Our testing and selection process
We always use a 5 step process in our reviews:
- We start as the buyer – most of our team have bought CrossFit barbells before. One member owns his own 8,000 sq ft gym where he owns multiple CrossFit items, including barbells.
- We do a ton of research – we collect information on as many CrossFit bars as possible and insert it into a spreadsheet.
- We rate each CrossFit barbell using our exclusive ‘weighted’ rating system. You can learn more about this in the section below.
- We use data to decide our top picks rather than personal biases toward brands.
- We get our hands on as many of the top picks as possible. Our community is great at helping with this.
You can read more about this process in our review guidelines.
Our testing and rating of CrossFit barbells is kind of nerdy.
But it’s as objective as it gets.
It’s based on data we get from personal experiences, first-hand use, and talking to industry peers.
We pool the data into one massive base – I’m talking 100s of barbells and 1000s of data points – from tensile and yield strength to finishes and colors.
We then create and tweak a weighted rating that balances the gravity (importance) of all factors.
(I told you it’s nerdy…)
I’ll list the 4 factor groups and explain each one below.
Here we go:
- Quality (39%) – all things related to the build, materials, and how they hold over time.
- Versatility (11%) – how good the CrossFit barbell is for other uses – Olympic-style, power lifts, and general bodybuilding. It’s not a huge factor for CrossFit gyms, but it’s important for home gyms.
- Reputation & reviews (12%) – owner experiences, past and present…both with this specific bar, other products from the brand, and their customer service.
It’s what separates the likes of Rogue from the cheap brands…ones that also make cheese plates or spatulas. - Value for money (38%) – how well the price aligns with what you get, considering both upfront costs and long-term durability. A good barbell might cost more initially but save money by not needing replacement, while cheaper bars could end up being more expensive over time if they fail over time.
- Yield and tensile strength (6%) – how much force it takes to deform and break a CrossFit barbell.
- Resistance to dropping and estimated lifespan (8%) – uniquely important for CrossFit barbells and uniquely hard to rate because we go beyond the advertising. Below is a graph that compares the estimated lifespan of the top barbells.
- Special hardening treatment (3%) – we added this rating to differentiate between “regular” barbells and those specially designed to withstand CrossFit abuse.
Specifically, we look at Rogue’s Work Hardening (RWH) and F-scale and estimate where non-Rogue bars would be in those parameters. RWH is supposed to triple the durability – you can read more about it on Rogue’s site here. - Max static capacity (2%) – the maximum weight you can load without damaging the bar. It’s a maker-defined spec and almost impossible to test…hence the low gravity.
(Yup, I said “hence”…)
- Flex and whip (6%) – looks into the elasticity of a barbell and awards ones with a medium whip. This weeds out the barbells that would be too rigid or bouncy for CrossFit.
- Knurling (5%) – awards the medium hill knurl over the passive etching and aggressive hill/volcano patterns (because that’s what most CrossFitters prefer).
Beyond aggressiveness, we look at uniformity, termination, and longevity. - Finishes (4%) – a two-part rating that looks into the resistance of the finish and its effects on the knurl:
- Finish resistance (3%) – how well the surface holds faced with moisture and dropping.
- Effects on the knurl (1%) – awards the finishes that don’t dull the knurling, like stainless steel.
- Sleeves – texture and loadable space (3% combined) – we award points for smooth and mildly ribbed sleeves because they’re quieter, easier to load, and (in my experience) hold plates better.
We also rate the loadable length (1% gravity) because there’s little difference between the top bars – it’s 16-16.5 for men’s and around 13” for women’s barbells. - Build precision and tolerances (2%) – rates how the bar is put together. It awards precise tolerances (between the shaft and sleeves, for example), clean welds, uniform knurling, and high attention to detail.
It’s intangible, but decades of experience and testing of barbells allow us to rate it.
If we limit the conversation to home gyms, the best CrossFit barbells are also great all-rounders.
There’s some overlap between quality and versatility.
A case in point is yield and tensile strength – the bars that are in the sweet range (190-200K PSI) are also the most versatile.
Overlapping factors account for about 3.5% of the versatility rating.
The rest are listed below:
- Total length (2%) – awards bars in the 86-87” range because that’s optimal – yields solid space on the sleeves and just enough whip.
- Spin of the sleeves (4%) – the top CrossFit bars have a medium spin – enough to lower injury risk on snatches and cleans, without making the barbell bouncy. Most of them feature bushings, and a few are hybrids (bushings and bearings).
- Diameter (2%) – awards the 28.5mm diameter and eliminates any barbell thicker than 29 or thinner than 28mm.
- Knurl markings (1%) – points for dual knurl marks because they make hand placement easier.
- Center knurl (2%) – low-gravity factor because most CrossFit bars don’t have a center knurl. Ideally, you’d have a very mild etching for a bit of extra friction…like on the Chan bar.
This group of factors awards 4 things:
- Experiences and testing of the specific barbell (8%).
- Experiences with the brand (1.5%) – especially the customer service (response times, professionalism, precision/clarity in communication, and % of resolved issues). Much of this is based on our decades-long experience in the fitness space (10+ between our team members), and our database.
- Warranties and guarantees (2.5%) – awards points to the barbells whose makers stand behind the product (ideally a Lifetime warranty with minimal limitations).
Value is an “elastic” rating that estimates good bang for your buck.
So, it goes beyond finding cheap bars.
I’d put it like this: We pinpoint the non-crappy, non-expensive barbells…with zero regard for the label.
Find the perfect CrossFit bar for you
Overall | Budget | Premium | Women | Amazon
1. Best CrossFit barbell overall – Rogue Ohio
Rogue Ohio has the best balance between price and CrossFit-oriented characteristics, especially the stainless steel version.
Quality (39%)
Versatility (11%)
Reputation & reviews (12%)
Value for money (38%)
Main praises – what I like
- It’s my educated guess they’re using ETD150 steel for the Ohio now and I love it. It pairs well with the medium knurl and spin that’s just right for all CrossFit moves – gentle enough for thrusters and grippy enough for snatches and deadlifts.
- I love how the SS Ohio (SS – Stainless Steel) feels in hand, especially on clean and jerks.
Main grievances – what could be better
- A passive center knurl would make the Ohio better for CrossFiters ‘cause it would add a bit of “stickiness” on the squat (as long as it’s mild enough not to scrape your chest on thrusters).
Pros
- Available in stainless steel – the most corrosion-resistant option for a barbell with the highest resistance to drops (F10-R).
- Available in Cerakote – allows you to add a splash of your favorite color without compromising on resistance.
- Available in bare steel – feels special and grippy in a non-shredding way.
- 200k PSI tensile strength – the bar won’t break or warp.
- Lifetime warranty – gives you peace of mind and shows that Rogue backs their products!
- Bronze bushings sleeves – smooth spin (but not too fast), and more durable than composite bushings.
- Dual knurl markings – make it easy to position your hands for different lifts like the bench press and the snatch.
Cons
- Price – stainless steel Ohio costs 30% more than Rogue 2.0, which buys you 5-8 pounds of whey
- No mild center knurl – not a true CON, but the light etching on the Chan bar gives you that little extra friction on thrusters and squats.
Since I first wrote this guide all those years ago, the battle for the top was all Rogue – Ohio, 2.0, Chan, and Bella.
It’s a dance between features and price.
The basics were always there – medium knurl, bronze bushings, tensile strength.
One thing was keeping the Ohio down – they used to make the stainless steel version without Rogue Work Hardening.
That changed, and it’s now F10-R on their scale, which means it’s more resistant to drops than the Rogue 2.0.
That’s a massive shift!
It also comes in more finish options if that’s your thing.
The Rogue Ohio has taken the top spot from Rogue 2.0 in this update, despite being similar.
The 3 key differences that give the Ohio an edge are:
1. The finish(es) – Ohio is available in a range of coats/finishes, unlike the Rogue 2.0, which is black zinc.
Below is a graph comparing the resistance of the finishes.
Beyond the resistance, some finishes are superior in terms of how they affect the knurl.
Specifically, bare and stainless steel are “naked” and have zero effect on the knurling, while Zinc or Cerakote dull it.
2. The place on the F-scale – stainless steel version of the Ohio is superior, rated with an F10-R.
Other finishes are the same as 2.0’s – F8-R.
3. The knurling is a bit more aggressive than that of the Rogue 2.0, but it doesn’t feel sharp.
This means the calluses on your hands won’t be ripping off when you spin the bar on movements like the clean. But it also has more than enough grip, especially with chalk for those heavy deadlifts.
If I had to choose one, I’d go for the stainless steel
Stainless steel is very corrosion resistant, so it doesn’t need a “finish” to protect it. It means there’s nothing between your hands and the metal to dull the knurl.
It will look brand new in 10 years, which can’t be said for the black zinc of the Rogue 2.0.
That’s a big plus…
Stainless steel Ohio is now RWH-treated
This version of the bar wasn’t treated with RWH when the previous update was written – it’s now the highest on the F-scale.
That’s THE ONE change that propelled it to the top.
Ohio uses bronze bushings instead of the 2.0’s composite
Both types of bushing systems are precise and provide excellent smooth spin for the sleeves.
Despite the leaps in composite technology, bronze is still the more durable option.
And that’s a bigger deal for CrossFit than general-use barbells…what with all the dropping and abuse.
2. Best budget CrossFit barbell – Force USA Gunner
Force USA Gunner costs about 30% less than Rogue Ohio SS and has the highest tensile strength here – a whopping 235K PSI.
Quality (39%)
Versatility (11%)
Reputation & reviews (12%)
Value for money (38%)
Main praises – what I like
- It doesn’t feel rigid despite the high tensile strength. I’m assuming they “played around” and mixed in some nickel and manganese to make it possible.
- The bushing-bearing combo is an odd choice, but it works for CrossFit because the bushings slow it down a bit. Still, if you like less spin on snatches and jerks, you’ll want to skip this one.
Main grievances – what could be better
- Nothing substantial… I’d just really like to see some new finishes. The all-black zinc is getting old, at least for me. But it does take chalk well.
Pros
- Supreme tensile strength – At 235k PSI, this bar will put up with lots of drops.
- Excellent spin – Due to the hybrid bushings/bearings, this bar has a smooth, controlled spin, which is so important for advanced lifters.
Cons
- Moderate knurling – The bar features moderate knurling, which may not provide the aggressive grip preferred by some powerlifters during heavy lifts.
The Gunner is a feat of engineering that doesn’t cost like one.
A few stand-out features:
- Highest tensile strength (TS) of all barbells we considered.
The only other brand that goes this high with the TS is Kabuki. Kabuki’s marketing is like a chicken-egg song (as it should be, for what Chris is doing).
And you have Force USA over here making a 235K PSI barbell for half the price without any fuss…go figure.
Honestly, I don’t really care…as long as we get to buy it on the cheap.
- The combination of bushings and bearings – can be good or bad for CrossFit, depending on your preferences. For a home gym budget, it’s definitely a good thing because it means you get an “allrounder” that’s also good for your WOD.
- At 28 mm, it’s a touch thinner than your average CrossFit barbell, which means it’s more flexible. It’s a subtle difference, and most people won’t notice it, but elite CrossFitters will…for sure.
Here’s the “bottomest” of bottom lines – Gunner deviates from a few CrossFit ideals for a barbell.
If you’re unsure about it, give it a spin in a light session and keep all the original packaging. If it feels off, you can return it, as long as it’s in “unused condition in its original packaging for a refund of the purchase price.”
The Force USA Gunner emerges as the ultimate budget-conscious choice for gym owners and serious athletes who refuse to compromise on quality.
At a price point that doesn’t break the bank, this barbell delivers performance that punches well above its weight class – quite literally.
Let’s talk real-world durability. As someone who’s seen countless barbells come and go in CrossFit and strength training facilities, the Gunner’s 1,500 lbs weight rating isn’t just a number – it’s a promise.
With 235,000 PSI tensile strength, this bar will outlast the flavor-of-the-month equipment that many budget brands push out.
For gym owners, that translates to fewer replacements and more consistent performance across hundreds of athlete training sessions.
The 28mm shaft hits a versatile sweet spot.
Whether you’re programming Olympic lifts, powerlifting movements, or high-intensity CrossFit WODs, the Gunner adapts seamlessly.
The Black Zinc finish is where budget meets smart engineering.
It’s not just about rust protection; it’s about creating a surface that takes chalk like a dream and maintains grip integrity through countless training cycles.
For gym owners watching their bottom line, this means less equipment maintenance and more consistent athlete experience.
With the Gunner, budget-conscious doesn’t mean cheap.
This is a barbell that respects the athlete’s journey – from beginner to advanced lifter.
The carefully designed knurling provides enough grip to challenge you without shredding your hands, a balance that speaks to thoughtful design rather than cost-cutting.
In a market flooded with disposable fitness equipment, the Force USA Gunner stands as a testament to value.
It’s not just a budget pick – it’s a smart investment for the discerning gym owner who knows that true value isn’t about the lowest price but about performance, durability, and reliability.
3. Premium pick – Rogue Chan Bar
The Chan Bar is what you get when you ask an elite CrossFitter to design a barbell…it’s also what you pay for.
Quality (39%)
Versatility (11%)
Reputation & reviews (12%)
Value for money (38%)
Main praises – what I like
- It’s great how quickly you get into position by grabbing right at the edge of the knurl because the smooth center is wider. It also won’t scrape your shins/thighs.
Matt Chan is 5’10’, so that might not work if you’re shorter and like a closer grip. - I love the light center knurl – it feels like the Smurfette is standing on my neck/chest, helping with squats and thrusters.
- I feel the extra-long sleeves are great – the difference compared to Ohio is negligible but if you look at other bars like CAP Beast, it’s 1.5 inches. That’s half a 45-pound bumper plate.
Below is a graph comparing the sleeve length of some top CrossFit barbells.
Main grievances – what could be better
- I guess you could protest the price if you wanna nitpick – it costs 20% more than Ohio finished in Cerakote.
Finally, here’s a video of Matt explaining why he thinks the Chan bar is “perfect”…it’s mostly the same stuff we talked about.
Pros
- Passive center knurl – adds grip for squats but won’t rub your chest raw for thrusters.
- Stainless steel with Cerakote finish – the creme de la creme. You cannot get a more corrosion-resistant bar.
- 16.5″ sleeves – the longest sleeves on this list means you can fit more weight on the bar.
- 200k PSI tensile strength – strong enough to handle any weight.
- Dual knurl markings – make it easy to position your hands for different lifts like the bench press and the snatch.
Cons
- Rogue Work Hardening not used on stainless steel bars – supposedly could make the bar last 3 times as long (according to Rogue!)
- Price – the better finish makes this more expensive than the 2.0 version.
The Chan bar takes everything good about Ohio and adds details that solve a few CrossFiters’ problems.
What makes the most difference?
The greater distance between the knurling, with the mild etching down the middle that adds a bit of friction on squats and thrusters and makes the bars more shin-friendly.
Is it worth the extra bucks?
If you do CrossFit every day and you’re of a similar body constitution as Matt, then yes.
(Also, is it just me, or does he kinda look like Biff Tannen?)
The Rogue Chan is my wildcard and one of my favorite multi-purpose bars that exists.
The unique feature of this is the passive center knurling. A center knurling is typically not great for a CrossFit barbell. This is because it can scrape your chest raw if you are performing high reps of thrusters or similar CrossFit lifts.
However, I like to have a bit of grip in the center for a bit of stick on my back squats. Sure there are tons of other squats you can do in CrossFit without needing to put the bar on your back, it’s just my preference. But it’s also helpful when you’re in the front rack position. Make sure you check out our squat rack buying guide to help support your squats.
The Rogue Chan has a super passive knurl here to provide that stick for squats, but it won’t scrape your chest raw for other lifts. Win-win!
Matt Chan also wanted the knurling a bit wider and more aggressive than a normal multipurpose bar…
This is because it helps him position his hands quickly exactly where the knurl stops. It will suit most athletes who are over 5 foot 10 but may not be ideal for shorter athletes who position their hands nearer the center. The more aggressive knurl is great for those really heavy lifts too.
Another great thing about this bar is that the sleeves are longer than any other bar on this page…
16.5″ sleeves mean there is more room to load plates on the bar if you lift crazy heavy deadlifts. But more importantly, it means you can buy thicker (often cheaper) bumper plates without worrying about running out of space on the bar. Check out our full bumper plate buying guide for some useful tips on what to look for here and how to save money!
The final reason why I love this bar is the finish. It uses stainless steel, which is arguably the most corrosion-resistant metal, but it also has a Cerakote finish. This is what is used on some of the most durable firearms!
Matt Chan is a CrossFit legend (in case you didn’t know) and he’s personally contributed to designing this bar.
He’s even made changes as he wasn’t completely happy with the original version, such as using a higher 200k PSI tensile strength and the finish of the bar.
4. Best CrossFit barbell for women – Rogue Bella 2.0
Rogue Bella is basically a women’s version of the Ohio – just as good but thinner, lighter, and shorter…kinda like me versus my high-school girlfriend.
Quality (39%)
Versatility (11%)
Reputation & reviews (12%)
Value for money (38%)
I haven’t used Bella with my clients, but I talk to women who test it every week…I hear only good things.
I plan on getting one or two shipped to the UK…as soon as I “sell a kidney.”
Dumb jokes aside, I’ll update this section with more hands-on stuff when it happens.
Pros
- Long-lasting protection – combines Cerakote finish with RWH treatment (F6-R Rogue rating) for outstanding durability in home gym environments.
- Custom color options – with this bar, you can match your gym’s aesthetics or express your style with multiple color combinations.
Cons
- Premium price point – the Cerakote coating adds 10-20% to the cost compared to other Bella variants.
It’s all about the balance with the Bella – between the knurling and the finish, between the flexibility and spin, between the ruggedness and looks, price and value…it’s an all-around performer and the overall winner.
It’s an excellent bar for the woman who needs her barbell to serve multiple purposes.
Now, Bella is not cheap.
There are cheaper bars that won’t perform as well and won’t last as long but will save you a Benjamin.
Some of them have “WOD” in the name – you can read more about how they compare to the Bella in our guide on best barbells for women here.
The Rogue Bella 2.0 in Cerakote proves that a women’s barbell doesn’t have to compromise on performance or durability. As someone who’s seen countless barbells in action, I can tell you this 15KG powerhouse is worth your attention.
Here’s what makes the Bella 2.0 special…
Engineering that makes sense – The 190,000 PSI tensile strength matches that of the flagship Ohio Bar, delivering the perfect mix of rigidity and whip. For CrossFit athletes, this means confident performance whether you’re doing technical Olympic lifts or grinding through a heavy WOD.
Refined knurling that gets it right – The grip sweet spot is real here. It’s aggressive enough to handle your heaviest deadlifts but won’t tear up your hands during high-rep cleans or snatches. As someone who’s coached countless athletes, I can tell you this balance is crucial for CrossFit programming.
Precision that you can hear (or rather, can’t) – The new bronze bushings and tighter tolerances make this bar twice as quiet as its predecessor. But it’s not just about noise – this engineering translates to smoother spins and more stable lifts. You’ll feel the difference during those technical Olympic movements.
Smart sleeve design – The new low-profile matte black sleeves aren’t just about looks. They make plate loading faster and smoother – a small detail that makes a big difference during fast-paced CrossFit sessions.
Despite its “women’s bar” designation, make no mistake – this is a serious piece of equipment that can handle everything from technical Olympic lifts to brutal MetCons. Having put countless bars through their paces in both competition and training environments, I can say the Bella 2.0 stands up to the challenge.
The precision engineering shows in every detail – from the refined sleeve design to the carefully calculated knurl pattern. It’s the kind of bar that makes you feel confident pushing your limits, whether you’re a competitive athlete or just starting your CrossFit journey.
For gym owners considering this bar, the lifetime construction warranty backs up Rogue’s confidence in its American-made quality. Yes, you’re paying more for the Cerakote version, but the durability and performance make it a smart long-term investment.
5. Top-rated cheap CrossFit bar from Amazon – E.T. Energic
E.T. Energic* is cheap, extremely popular on Amazon, and has no deal-breaking flaws.
*I’ll just call it E.T. in the rest of the guide…I don’t know how they come up with these names.
Quality (39%)
Versatility (11%)
Reputation & reviews (12%)
Value for money (38%)
I haven’t used it but I can speak from experience – the price for steel quality is the main benefit.
I can also see the needle bearings being too spinny for some CrossFitters. And it’s gonna flake and rust…I know the type of chrome companies use in this price range.
Pros
- Strong for the price – 200,000 PSI, 1,500 lb capacity outperforms many budget bars.
- Smooth spin – 4 needle bearings + bushing ensure solid rotation for Olympic lifts.
- Balanced knurling – Grippy yet comfortable for both heavy lifts and high reps.
Cons
- The finish needs care – Black hard chrome resists rust but requires regular maintenance.
E.T. is the bar to get if you’re on a shoestring budget – because it has no red flags, its flaws are minor and of lower incidence compared to main competitors.
Let’s take a step back…
The budget pick was always gonna come down to E.T. and one of the following 4 bars.
- CAP Beast – decent and even cheaper than E.T., but I’ve seen too many issues with packaging and delivery since the last update (and even metal shavings coming off the bar).
- Synergee Regional – again, good but inconsistent.
I’ve seen reports of people getting bars that bend on first use and being replaced with ones that stand strong. I don’t know what’s going on here…it’s like they have a cheap batch that goes out initially and another for returns (not making claims…just exaggerating my concerns). - Get RXd WOD 5.0 – great value…neck and neck with E.T and BOS Utility (below).
The 1-year warranty against bending threw me off…what’s that about at 190K PSI? - Bells of Steel (BOS) Utility – probably the closest competitor to the E.T. but it costs a bit more and spins on brass bushings (bronze is harder and stronger).
Let me give you a straight take on the E.T. Energetic – it’s what I call a pleasant Amazon surprise.
Here’s what caught my attention…
Serious strength specs – At 200,000 PSI tensile strength and a 1,500 lb weight capacity, it outmuscles some bars costing twice as much. As someone who’s seen plenty of budget bars fail under heavy loads, these numbers matter.
Smart bearing/bushing combo – Each sleeve packs 4 needle bearings plus a bushing. It’s an unexpected feature at this price point and delivers smooth rotation for Olympic lifts. The friction-welded sleeves are a nice touch too – stronger than the typical budget bar construction.
Practical knurling – The 1.2mm medium knurl isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, and that’s good. It’s grippy enough for your heavy lifts but won’t destroy your hands during high-rep CrossFit workouts. On a 28mm shaft, it feels familiar and reliable.
Budget-friendly finish – The black hard chrome isn’t fancy, but it gets the job done. It’ll protect against basic rust and wear, though you’ll want to give it some TLC if you’re in a humid climate.
Look, let’s be real – this isn’t a Rogue bar. But it’s not trying to be. What it offers is solid CrossFit performance at an Amazon price point. I’ve seen gyms stock these as backup bars and end up surprisingly impressed. For home gym folks or box owners working with a tight budget, the E.T. Energetic proves you don’t need to spend premium money to get a bar that can handle the daily CrossFit grind.
Is it perfect? No. But at this price point, it’s punching well above its weight class. Just remember – like any budget bar, regular maintenance will go a long way in keeping it performing well.
Here are our criteria on how we picked these barbells, and what we looked for:
- Quality (39%)
- Versatility (11%)
- Brand reputation & reviews (12%)
- Value for money (38%)
- Fringe Wonder – good barbells (exist as men’s and women’s bars) that can’t compete with the Ohio and the Bella..at least not in the same price range.
Personal note: I learned something interesting from looking into the women’s Wonder bar in this update. It has a lower tensile than yield strength, meaning it will break before it bends (will bend at 160K PSI and would bend at 199K PSI).
I talked to their customer service about it and they explained – it’s because of the thinner shaft.
It’s one of those things that seems obvious once you know it.
It’s humbling and kind of embarrassing.
I guess you can still learn something new about barbells, even after 2 decades of daily use.
What kind of bar do CrossFitters use?
Most CrossFitters use a Rogue Ohio barbell. This is the most used barbell at all of the CrossFit Games events and is one of the most affordable high spec bars on the market. Most CrossFit gyms will have the Rogue Ohio or the Rogue 2.0 as an option.
Having said that, it’s worth mentioning that adding a regular barbell is often not enough for CrossFitters who want to further increase the range of exercises in their gym.
A popular addition is a multi-grip bar. If you want to learn more about these, make sure to check out our in-depth best multi-grip barbell buying guide.
What is the best Rogue barbell for CrossFit?
The best Rogue barbell for CrossFit is the Rogue Ohio.
It is very similar to the Rogue 2.0, but it is slightly cheaper and is the most used barbell at the CrossFit Games.
It uses Rogue Work Hardening which will last 3 times as long as competitive bars with the same specs.
How long will a CrossFit bar last?
Good CrossFit bars last for over 50 years if they are used for a home gym and taken care of.
If the barbell is used in a CrossFit gym it will typically last between 1 to 16 years.
Rogue uses a proprietary technology called Rogue Work Hardening to allow some of their bars such as the Rogue Bar 2.0 to last 3 times as long as similar barbells.
What is the standard weight of a CrossFit barbell?
In CrossFit competitions, women use 35 lb (15 kg) bars, while men use 45 lb (20 kg) bars.
While it’s good to be aware of the standard weight of a CrossFit barbell, in regular everyday practice, CrossFitters don’t really pay too much attention to this aspect.
You can stay true to those weights if you want, but keep in mind that the bar weight is not of huge importance, compared to other aspects, such as proper form and technique, for example.
The bottom line
There are some aspects of a barbell such as the good quality steel and medium knurling that make a barbell ideal for CrossFit.
After comparing 45 multi-purpose barbells, we pinpointed the stand-out bars on the market.
I found that the Rogue Ohio is the best CrossFit barbell for most people. It has 190k PSI tensile strength, a great knurl, and uses Rogue Work Hardening to make it one of the most durable bars on the market. It’s also about half the price of many other barbells with these specs.
If you want a premium bar with a more resistant finish and an even nicer feeling knurl, then I’d recommend the Rogue Chan. Cerakote provides excellent corrosion resistance, protecting your bar against rust and wear while preserving a flawless look.
Click here to jump back to the top picks table if you want to see all the specs for the best CrossFit bars that made it to the top of our list.
Stay strong!