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Best Bumper Plates
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Accessories
What size plates do you want and do you want a full set? Answering these questions will go a long way in the buying process.
First and foremost, you need to figure out what you want. Yes, this is a very vague proclamation but it is merely in regard to how many weights you want and the total weight you want. From one person to the next, though, this is going to be completely different and it is important to address because bumper plates come in different sizes. Not only this but not all sellers will package their models in the same manner. Some will offer you with the option to buy a bundle of weights and others may only offer theirs in pairs. Then, of course, you have the rare sellers that only sell their plates individually.
Now, it goes without saying that you can always find another way. For example, if you wanted a total weight of 300 pounds, you could simply buy enough pairs or individual weights to meet this amount. Of course, doing so will be much easier with a seller that offers a bundle of weights (and also cheaper, for that matter). With all this being said, the amount you desire is all dependent on you. But, know this, you can benefit quite a bit from heavier deadlifts.
Materials
Due to the nature of their design, it is vital that the materials are premium.
This is section is all about the rubber. Now, not all weights on the market will be made with a composition of rubber. Yet, most of the top-end models will utilize this material. But, not all rubber is the same and in the world of bumper plates, it typically comes down to either recycled or virgin. The difference between these two is night and day so it is important to understand the differences between them. To start, let’s focus on recycled rubber. This is also known as crumb rubber and it is comprised of old tires. Literally, old tires are ground up into little pieces and these are known as crumbs. From there, a binding agent is used to join all the crumbs together. This same binding agent is actually used to determine the quality of the rubber.
In all reality, this type of process is inferior to virgin rubber. If nothing else, this type looks much smoother and is more uniform in its construction. Also, it is more durable as a whole and when you end up dropping the bar, this type of material will not damage or scuff your floors. One last thing; you should also look for models that sport stainless steel inserts as these will help to protect the barbell.
Durability
These are literally designed to be dropped at the apex of your lift. So, they need to hold up to abuse.
In a way, this is merely a continuation of the last section. The materials that are utilized will go a long way in determining the durability of any given bumper plate. But, why is it so important for them to be durable, in the first place (outside of the obvious fact of you wanting to spend your money wisely)? The main reason is due to the nature of what they are designed for. After you have performed a lift with your barbell (and the attached weights), you merely drop it to the floor. Yes, this is done at the apex of the lift and that means that the weights are going to come slamming on the floor. This process will be repeated over and over again and this means that the plates will go through a ton of abuse during their lifespan.
Some sellers will claim their weights are tested to withstand 15,000 drops (with some even claiming this number to be 30,000). While this rating is a good reference point, this is also where virgin rubber holds an advantage. You see, crumb rubber will deteriorate over time and even though virgin rubber is going to mark up easily, it is still the more durable of the two.
Features
The features you need to look for may seem trivial but they are actually very important.
Some of you may have the mindsight that the color of a bumper plate is nothing more than trivial nonsense. However, this could not be farther from the truth. First and foremost, if you buy a set of weights that are color-coded (or at least easily distinguishable from one another) then it is going to be much more convenient for you to pick out the weights you want to place on the barbell. But, did you also know that certain weightlifting federations have a standardized color set that is used for competition? Two that come to mind are the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). What this means is if you get a set of plates that are in accordance to these color standards (which can be found online), it will become muscle memory when you go to select your weights.
Another feature that on the surface appears minor is integrated slots. Bumper plates can get downright heavy and if they are not easy to lift onto the barbell, you could end up hurting yourself. With integrated slots and possibly grips, you are provided with a convenient means of grabbing the plates when lifting them.
Compatibility
This is simple; you need to buy plates that will fit on your barbell.
No, this has nothing to do with software as it is not as if you can link your smart devices to a bumper plate. Instead, “compatibility” is merely referring to the barbell that you are using. What you need to ensure is that the plates you buy will fit onto the barbell safely and securely. Well, the way to do this is to assess the diameter of the center opening. As you have seen in this guide, models with two-inch diameters are common.
The reason for this is this is the standard for Olympic plates and barbells. But, not all models will be like this and some weights will only have one-inch diameters. Even if this is the case, make sure that you have a compatible barbell to go with them.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST BUMPER PLATES
1. ONEFITWONDER
Some plates will be sold individually but this right here is a full set and, better yet, the weight plates are color-coded. Also, as with most top-end options, virgin rubber was used in the engineering process.
Read moreIncluded Weights
There are quite a few sets available for you to choose from (all the way from 100 to 370 pounds). Within each set, you will be provided with a variety of different weights.
Materials
In addition to the fact that these plates are made of higher density virgin rubber, they also sport expertly designed stainless steel inserts. Do note, though, that the virgin rubber can smell a bit.
Durability
Even after several uses and several drops, each of the weights will not show signs of wear and tear. The quality is premium here that much is for sure.
Features
Though it really is a minute feature, any of the sets you select will come with color-coded weights. In an instance where you need to quickly select certain weights, this will come in handy.
Compatibility
Each weight sports an insert diameter of two inches. So, that means that each of them will work with Olympic barbells.
Overall
While this may seem incredibly expensive, for a full set of bumper plates of this quality, you could almost consider this a steal. The bang for your buck here is utterly marvelous.
2. XMARK LUMBERJACK
Now, this is truly a full set as it comes fully loaded with several Olympic weights and also an Olympic bar. It is also sold by XMark Fitness so you know the quality is superb.
Read moreIncluded Weights
What a set this is. All in all, you receive a seven-foot Olympic bar and a 255-pound weight set. Of course, there are also other sets available that you can pick from.
Materials
Okay, so the bumper plates are designed with rubber casings that are made from virgin and recycled rubber. As for the bar, it sports brass bushings and a protective black coating (though it is not the most pristine coating).
Durability
The weights themselves have been handcrafted from cast iron and the aforementioned rubber casings. Of course, also as mentioned, the shaft coating on the bar is designed to provide protection against rust but it does not do the best job.
Features
On each weight, there are five slot openings and this allows you to load each of them with greater ease on the bar.
Compatibility
Even though the collars are not included, the bar and the weights come together. So, you do not need to worry about the compatibility unless you want to invest in a different barbell.
Overall
If you need and want it all then this may be the set for you. Of course, if you already own a premium barbell and merely require the weights then you may want to pass on this one.
3. XMARK FITNESS
What a brilliant design this is. The pair of weights that you receive has been designed with tri-grip handles and integrated finger slots to ensure much easier loading on the barbell.
Read moreIncluded Weights
All in all, you have three weight options to choose from (10, 25 and 45 pounds). No matter which size you pick, you will receive two weights with your purchase.
Materials
First off, each of the weights sold by XMark is handcrafted of cast iron. But, protecting this metal is premium rubber casing that is made from a combination of recycled and virgin rubber.
Durability
Cast iron itself is known for its durability but the premium rubber casing is peel and crack-resistant and is going to withstand a ton of abuse over its lifespan.
Features
This is where XMark Fitness deserves the most credit, honestly. All throughout each weight, there are three different openings that sport recessed tri-grip handles. This small feature makes it much easier to load the plates on your barbell.
Compatibility
XMark Fitness designed their weights to work on Olympic barbells and this means that each of them sports an opening diameter of two inches.
Overall
A strong claim could be made that these weights deserved the gold selection on this list. If this was a complete set, maybe that would be the case but as is, you will need to buy these weights in pairs.
4. REP FITNESS
Really, what more could you ask for? Rep Fitness presents their weights on this list and they are designed from premium virgin rubber and sport white lettering that is easily distinguishable.
Read moreIncluded Weights
Variety is the spice of life and Rep Fitness is fully aware of that. As such, they provide you with tons of different options from pairs to sets (the variety is truly superb).
Materials
The combination of the virgin rubber and the stainless steel inserts make for impressive plates. Yet, you may notice a small odor resonating from the rubber (and this is common).
Durability
Being factory tested to withstand more than 15,000 drops from a height of eight feet, you can take great comfort in knowing that these weights will hold up well over time.
Features
It is so simple yet oh so brilliant. This is referring to the fact that Rep Fitness equipped their models with white lettering instead of black.
Compatibility
For all Olympic barbells that sport two-inch sleeves, each and every weight that you buy here will fit securely and properly.
Overall
For being farther down on this list, it is still amazing how wonderful these weights truly are. Sure, you may have to deal with emitted odors but that is not uncommon.
5. TITAN ELITE
As great as Titan Fitness’s weights are, it is worth noting right off the bat that they sell them individually. So, if you are looking for full sets, there are more convenient options out there.
Read moreIncluded Weights
It is mentioned in the product description that Titan Fitness sells each of its weights individually. For the record, there are 10, 25, 35, 45, and 55-pound options available.
Materials
Past the premium rubber casing that so many other top-end models integrate, each one of the weights that you buy here is reinforced with a steel collar.
Durability
The aforementioned steel collars will actually prevent wear on your equipment while the plates themselves will stand up very well to high reps and intense use.
Features
Of the weights that are sold, they feature different colors for easy identification. Additionally, each of them features a raised lip which makes picking them up easier.
Compatibility
The collar opening on each and every one of the weights is 50.6 millimeters (which works out to right around two inches).
Overall
If you needed a complete set, you could technically get it here but the process in doing so would be hampered by the fact that each weight is sold individually. In spite of this, the quality is phenomenal.
6. X TRAINING EQUIPMENT
If one thing is for sure, sometimes rubber bumper plates give off a potent odor that can be unbearable. While you may need to manually get rid of the smell with these weights, the end result will be worth it.
Read moreIncluded Weights
There is a strong variety of size options available. For the record, there are options for singles, pairs, and sets so you can go with the option that you see fit.
Materials
In addition to the 100 percent rubber construction, these have been equipped with steel inserts that will allow the accompanying barbell to fit snug. Of course, many users have complained about the potent chemical smell of the rubber.
Durability
If nothing else, you can take solace in knowing that these plates were designed and tested by CrossFit and certified Olympic weightlifting coaches.
Features
Though this is another classic example of black lettering imprinted onto a black body, this time, it is not too difficult to see the weight specifications on each individual plate.
Compatibility
It is becoming a running theme and, yet again, these are going to properly fit two-inch diameter barbells.
Overall
Yes, this is another option that comes with a bad odor. Once the odor is able to be dissipated, though, everything will be history thanks to the quality present here.
7. XTREME MONKEY
If you wanted to make a set with these plates, you would need to buy each desired weight individually. Of course, it may be worth it thanks to the premium design of each one.
Read moreIncluded Weights
A wide variety of plates, from 10 to 55 pounds, are open for you to purchase. Yet, the seller only has singles up so you can’t buy a set directly.
Materials
It seems that Xtreme Monkey designed their plates with crumb and virgin rubber. The former prevents these from bouncing too high and the latter is used as a tough covering.
Durability
It is noted that these weighs can handle anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 drops. While this is an extremely vague range, this durability is thanks to the crumb rubber technology and virgin rubber.
Features
Even though each of the weight options sports a black exterior, each of them has different colored lettering. This subtle feature makes it much easier to identify specific weights.
Compatibility
While it looks like these will fit two-inch bars, it is not specified by the seller on the official product page (at least not as of this writing).
Overall
All in all, these are not the most popular weights on the market. And, you can only buy them as singles. But, looking at each one individually, they are designed very well.
8. ONEFITWONDER
In a bit of an ironic twist, OneFitWonder started this list and will end this list, as well. As opposed to the top option on this list, though, these weights are not color-coded and are quite hard to distinguish between, honestly.
Read moreIncluded Weights
This right here is a 160-pound set. With it, you receive a pair of 10, 25, and 45-pound weights.
Materials
Though the odor that comes with these weights is not pleasant, they are designed with virgin rubber (which is formulated for its low bounce, density and durability).
Durability
Even the puny little 10-pound weights have been engineered to handle up to 30,000 drops. Of course, so have all the rest and this is quite a bump up from the often claimed 15,000 drops.
Features
Though not downright impossible to see, the lettering that is present on each of the weights could have been improved. Also, these are not color-coded.
Compatibility
One previous buyer reported that they had difficulties fitting these on their compatible bar due to the center holes being too tight. For the record, however, these will fit barbells with two-inch sleeves.
Overall
Do not get it twisted; this really is a great option. In addition to the 30,000-drop rating that each of the bumper plates has, they are also crafted of premium virgin rubber.
9. VULCAN STRENGTH
In terms of performance and build quality, Vulcan Strength deserves a ton of credit for their bumper plates. Yet, the lettering does not stand out and this can make pinpointing a specific weight more difficult.
Read moreIncluded Weights
It appears as if other sizes are available, for the record, but you do receive two plates with your purchase here. This one, in specific, is for two 45 pounders.
Materials
Vulcan Strength is yet another company to engineer their bumper plates with virgin rubber instead of recycled rubber.
Durability
Though Vulcan Strength does not provide a rating to how many drops their weights can endure, the quality is premium so expect countless drops before replacements will be needed.
Features
This is the biggest problem with this option. You see, each of the weights is plain black with black lettering. Due to this, it is going to be tricky to quickly distinguish between them.
Compatibility
Granted you own an Olympic barbell (one that sports a diameter of two inches), then these weights are going to work perfectly for you.
Overall
The truth is if you do not have an issue with the black lettering on top of the black exterior, then you will utterly marvel in the design and effectiveness of these premium weights.
10. CAP BARBELL PREMIUM
Even though these are dubbed as premium weights, admittedly, there are superior options out there. Yet, at the same time, CAP Barbell’s plates will be a welcome addition to anyone’s home gym.
Read moreIncluded Weights
While you can opt for a single pair of weights, there are also a few bundle options available. With these, you will receive a unique selection of plates.
Materials
Nothing out of the ordinary here as each individual weight features a cast iron core that has been encased with virgin and recycled rubber. Also, there are steel inserts.
Durability
Overall, the durability is pretty good here. As one buyer did point out, though, the quality could use improved around the center rings of the plates.
Features
This is one of the worst culprits of easy identification you will ever see. For whatever reason, the lettering is barely visible from even a decent distance (let alone from far away).
Compatibility
Each of the bumper plates you get all can be used with two-inch Olympic bars (as each of them has the same sized opening).
Overall
Few buyers out there will question the effectiveness of this option. However, some slight flaws prevent it from topping most of the entries on this list.
