You know that saying, “weight is weight?” This phrase implies that it doesn’t matter what the weight looks like. All you’re doing is lifting it anyways. It’s somewhat true, but…
Not all weight is created equally. Some are more aesthetically pleasing than others, and these Deep Dish Plates from Rogue are examples of that. While bringing “Old School” back, these Made in America beauties released in 2020 have made many previous “weight is weight” believers reconsider because they are that nice. Plus, they include many other enticing features that would make them an ideal choice for many. Below you’ll find a review of the Rogue Deep Dish Plates.
Finish and Construction
The Deep Dish Plates include an e-coat finish that is remarkably smooth and extremely corrosion resistant. This is the same e-coat Rogue now uses on kettlebells and barbells, initially popularized in the automotive industry. In addition, these are cast from ductile iron, which has a higher tensile and yield strength than gray iron. This is all accomplished in Cadillac, Michigan. These will be able to take a beating for a very long time, and its pristine image shouldn’t diminish much anytime soon.
More Attributes
The “deep dish” on these plates does make it easier to handle, specifically when grabbing 45’s or 100’s from the ground. This is an advantage it has over traditional iron plates.
Aesthetically, these smaller plates would most likely look better with a deeper look.
The lip on the 25’s and 35’s is not very deep, but it’s just enough to make it comfortable to grab and maneuver around. They are still easy to grip.
Also, note that only 25-100 LB plates are available. 2.5 – 10’s are not yet for sale, but Rogue has mentioned that it is in progress.
The Deep Dish Plates are accurate. All received were within the +2% / -0% tolerance as promised by Rogue. In addition, with a 50MM hole size, the plates fit snug on the barbell and feel extremely secure. The wobble, if any, is not noticeable.
Size
The primary reason someone would not get these is the width (or you prefer bumpers). If you are consistently lifting 600, 700, or more regularly, congratulations, but these may not be for you. The Strength Co Iron Plates would likely be a good option if these are a bit too wide, but you would like something still relatively easy to grasp.
Or, you may have limited storage options available. The widths of these plates are:
- 25LB – 1.35″
- 35LB – 1.35″
- 45LB – 1.97″
- 100LB – 2.95″
On a standard power bar (like an Ohio Power Bar with a 16.25″ loadable sleeve), you’ll likely be able to fit 7 45’s on each side. That is 675 lbs in total. These beasts may be able to throw in a few 100’s to add more weight potential, but you get the point. For example:
With Traditional Iron Plates, you’d likely be able to get around twelve 45’s comfortably. Nevertheless, this is a “problem” that most of us do not have to think about.
The diameter of the 45 and 100 LB plates are both the same while the 25’s and 35’s are a bit smaller. These are pretty standard sizes.
- 25LB – 10.87″
- 35LB – 14.17″
- 45LB – 17.72″
- 100LB – 17.72″
Price
The Guac is Always Extra. The Deep Dish Plates are a bit of a price jump from traditional iron plates. For example, a 45 deep dish plate costs $155 compared to $127 for conventional iron. However, they are quite a bit cheaper than Rogue Calibrated Plates, where a 45 pounder is $218. Nevertheless, you do have the ability to receive “Hundo Pricing” when purchasing at least 250 lbs. of weight. Overall, the price is sensible.
Conclusion
For those in search of some iron plates, these would be highly recommended. Not only are they some of the best-looking plates ou, but they will also be extremely durable over time. The finish and coating are as good as it gets. These American plates are priced reasonably and would be a “flex” within any gym.
