Who is this for?
This bar is primarily for very serious squatters because much of the benefit will not be realized until quite a bit of weight is loaded on. Also, most squat bars are priced quite a bit higher than a basic power bar, which can be used for all lifts. Therefore, it’s not an item that most would call “essential.” Plus, other specialty bars are more versatile than a squat bar.
However, if you are on the fence, this option from I Sell Fitness is the most budget-friendly option available right now. Many of its specs line up with other well-known brands like Rogue and Kabuki, but the overall quality is average. Nevertheless, this may be an option to consider.
What is a Squat Bar?
Squat bars are designed quite a bit thicker than your traditional Olympic barbell. This helps remove the up and down swing you’ll see when the bar reaches a heavy load. Plus, a wider area in between sleeves helps to ensure an easier and safer racking experience. Lastly, the thickness allows for more contact on the back is more comfortable on your back compared to using a traditional power bar.
Specs and Barbell Observations
- A 32MM shaft is included, which is 3MM greater than what you’d see in most power bars. As previously mentioned, this helps eliminate any bar fluctuations with heavy weights and ensures a better grip with more contact to the back.
- A total length of 94.49 inches is about 8 inches longer than a traditional bar.
- Loadable sleeves are 16.75 inches. That is about .5 inches larger than a power bar. Therefore, more weight is possible.
- The distance between sleeves is 56.” With the collars farther apart than usual, it does make it much easier to rack. There is no worry of hitting the j-cups with the collars. In addition, this allows for you to go extra wide with your grip if you need to.
- It is fully knurled from end to end. Well, at least it is supposed to. Unfortunately, on this bar, one side is while the other comes up a bit short. There are also some knurl inconsistencies as well on random spots throughout the bar. It was also knicked up upon delivery, which left a small gash on one side. None of these issues really affect the bar’s performance but can be a huge turn-off when spending hundreds of dollars for a barbell.
- A center knurl mark is included, which helps someone line up to ensure that the weight is centered directly in the middle.
- The knurl is aggressive. Therefore, it is easy to maintain a firm grip. It’s not quite as aggressive as the deadlift bar highlighted in the past.
- This bar is offered in three different coatings – bare steel ($329.81), black oxide ($348.56), and blue “ceramic” $391.70). At this time, only the black oxide option is in stock. 1 year ago, these bars were about $100 cheaper, so it is not quite the deal it used to be. Rogue offers a Stainless Steel option that is currently $449. Therefore, you could make the case that the option from Rogue is just as good of a value as what you’ll find here. These are just lower-priced options with a coating not as good.
In the end, this is a beast of a bar, but the overall quality is average. It includes specs similar to other pricer options but also some disappointing imperfections that could easily be overlooked at the old price. Still, it’s not quite as budget-friendly as it used to be, with a cost of around $400 (including shipping), especially when you have the ability to get a Stainless Steel option from Rogue for another $100. It would be much easier to recommend at the previous price.