Mark Greene
Barbell-related injuries are common at the gym. All too often barbells fall off and cause injuries, some mild and others nasty. There are many things to blame, but at the end of the day, it is the lack of precaution on your part that takes most of the blame.
Weight lifters who care about their safety cannot stress the importance of barbell collars enough. For those who don’t know, barbell collars are the clamps used to hold the plates on the barbell, thus preventing them from falling off. They also come with a variety of other benefits that contribute to an evenly balanced muscle build-up.
All barbell collars are designed to do one thing: keep the plates from falling off. However, some do a better job than others. Here is a review of the best barbell collars of 2020.
The Best Barbell Collars
   1. Our Pick: OSO Barbell Collars
BEST CHOICE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Made of durable and robust material
- Assures a strong grip
PROS
- The aircraft-grade aluminum body is incredibly strong and durable
- It provides an ironclad grip thanks to the high-intensity spring
- It is strong enough to use on 2-inch Olympic barbell plates
- It comes with a 2-years warranty for the locking mechanism
CONS
- The spring opens with extreme force
- Colors are limited
DETAILS
There are several reasons why the OSO barbell collars are our favorite pick. For starters, they are unmatched when it comes to the strength of their grip. They’re also made with some of the most robust materials in the industry. They are the most popular barbell collars in gyms across the country, and that’s not all.
Key Features
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
These barbell collars will take a lot to crack or break as they are made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The aluminum is incredibly durable and can withstand all sorts of impacts and falls, which are common at the gym – in fact, it is so strong that it is designed for use with 2-inch Olympic barbells, so don’t be afraid to push it to the limit. It also has a compact look and feels that is suitable for the job.
- High-Intensity Spring
The locking mechanism of these barbell collars is one of the best there is, and it ensures an incredibly sturdy grip that is difficult to beat – tough enough to hold 2-inch plates in place. Most people do not realize this until they try to release the lock for this first time – it bounces off with so much force that you can even hurt yourself if you are not careful, so look out. Â
- Rust-Resistant
These barbell collars will remain squeaky and shiny for a long time to come as the aluminum body is rust-resistant. This is convenient especially if you are working in wet and moist conditions. It also makes cleaning easy.
- Two-Year Warranty
OSO is so confident in its locking mechanism that it offers a 2-year warranty just to put your mind at ease. This means that you will get a replacement if the spring shows any signs of a defect within two years.
        2. Premium Pick: Greententljs Olympic Barbell Lockjaw Collars
  PREMIUM PICK
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- It is affordable
- It lasts long
- There are many colors to choose from
PROS
- Tough ABS plastic cover that is also customizable
- Strong interior double-reinforced using steel skeleton
- Strong grip enables a high-intensity spring mechanism and rubber lining
- 11 colors and two sizes to choose from
CONS
- The plastic cover is easy to scratch
- The screws need tightening after each use
DETAILS
Don’t let the price fool you; Greententljs is one of the best barbell collars you will come across. It is designed to provide a firm grip and keep you safe. It also looks compact in all aspects; perhaps as compact as everything about weightlifting should be.
Key Features
- Ironclad Grip
You can be sure that the barbell plates will stay firmly in place once you attach these barbell collars as their grip is ironclad. They are powered by high-intensity springs that do not buckle easily even under intense pressure. They are also lined with high-intensity rubber grips that ensure that the plates do not slip off. To this end, they are also designed to work well with CrossFit.
- Steel Skeleton Reinforcement
In addition to the rubber lining and high-intensity spring, these collars are also double-reinforced using a steel skeleton. The steel skeleton further adds to the ironclad grip and also maintains their structural integrity so that they do not break or wear off quickly. Â
- Customizable ABS Plastic
The exterior of these collars is made of tough ABS plastic for customization purposes, so you can make some modifications. However, the plastic is also easy to scratch, but that is not enough to compromise the collars’ structural integrity. The plastic also comes in a variety of colors ranging from bright to dull. Â
- Minimal Maintenance
These barbell collars can last for years with the right care. Maintenance should be focused on the screws, which should be tightened after every use. It is also recommended to avoid straining the springs beyond their capacity. Besides that, there is nothing major to worry about.
3. Best Value: CAP Barbell Spring Clip Collars
           3. Best Value: CAP Barbell Spring Clip Collars
  BEST VALUE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- Stainless steel construction
- Sleek chrome plating
PROS
- Made of stainless steel for strength and durability
- Has high-intensity spring and coils for a tight grip
- The collars are light-weight and won’t interfere with your lifting
- The chrome plating makes the collars look sleek and compact
CONS
- The chrome plating fades off over time
- The levers may wear off if exposed to oil and sweat over time
DETAILS
CAP is one of the best makers of gym equipment. One of their outstanding creations is the CAP barbell spring clip collars. These collars are designed for heavy duty use, and everything from their make to their appearance attests to that.
Key Features
- Stainless Steel Construction
There is not a single hint of plastic in these barbell collars; they are made entirely of stainless steel. The stainless steel is strong enough to withstand the rough elements of weight lifting and will not crack or break under any circumstances. It is also rust-resistant, so don’t worry about sweat and moisture.
- High-Intensity Spring
These barbell collars pack one of the strongest grips thanks to the high-intensity spring. The spring doesn’t lose its intensity over time, so the grip will remain strong no matter how many times you use it. The high-intensity spring is also combined with luster levers that are equally strong and textured for an even firmer grip. The barbell collars are so strong that they are designed for use with 2-inch barbell plates and can hold even more.
- Chrome Plating
The steel body of these barbell collars is coated throughout with chrome plating. The chrome plating gives it a sleek and compact appearance suitable for weightlifting. However, the chrome plating doesn’t hold for long and will eventually fade away with continued use. However, it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the collars, so there is no need to worry.
4. Clout Fitness Quick Release Barbell Collars
4. Clout Fitness Quick Release Barbell Collars
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- They are durable
- Release mechanism is simple
PROS
- They are made of hard plastic which is durable
- They are easy and quick to attach and release thanks to a simple release mechanism
- They are light and easy to carry to and from the gym
- They come with carrying accessories that include a stylish nylon bag
CONS
- The plastic may scratch and crack over time
DETAILS
CAP is one of the best makers of gym equipment. One of their outstanding creations is the CAP barbell spring clip collars. These collars are designed for heavy duty use, and everything from their make to their appearance attests to that.
Key Features
- Stainless Steel Construction
There is not a single hint of plastic in these barbell collars; they are made entirely of stainless steel. The stainless steel is strong enough to withstand the rough elements of weight lifting and will not crack or break under any circumstances. It is also rust-resistant, so don’t worry about sweat and moisture.
- High-Intensity Spring
These barbell collars pack one of the strongest grips thanks to the high-intensity spring. The spring doesn’t lose its intensity over time, so the grip will remain strong no matter how many times you use it. The high-intensity spring is also combined with luster levers that are equally strong and textured for an even firmer grip. The barbell collars are so strong that they are designed for use with 2-inch barbell plates and can hold even more.
- Chrome Plating
The steel body of these barbell collars is coated throughout with chrome plating. The chrome plating gives it a sleek and compact appearance suitable for weightlifting. However, the chrome plating doesn’t hold for long and will eventually fade away with continued use. However, it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the collars, so there is no need to worry.
5. Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Collar Clamps
5. Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Collar Clamps
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
- They are cheap
- They are backed by a lifetime warranty
- The locking mechanism is easy to use
PROS
- They have a strong grip thanks to a high-intensity spring
- The locking mechanism is incredibly simple to implement
- They are conveniently light
- The hard plastic construction is moderately durable
CONS
- They have short longevity of just two years
- The plastic may feature sharp juts that may necessitate smoothening
DETAILS
Dark Iron Fitness barbell collars are simple in all aspects. They are also functional and offer the grip you need for a safe workout at the gym.
Key Features
- Simple Locking Mechanism
These barbell collars are designed with convenience in mind. They are easy to clamp on barbell plates – just slip them on the plate and turn the lever 90 degrees. They are also easy to remove. This not only saves you a lot of trouble but also time so that you can get the most out of your workouts.
- Strong Grip
The locking mechanism of these barbell collars may be simple, but that doesn’t mean that the grip is light – to the contrary, these barbell collars have a formidable grip. The locking mechanism is reinforced by a high-intensity spring that holds plates firmly in place. It is enough to hold up to 2-inches Olympic plates.
- Hard plastic Body
One of the shortcomings of these barbell collars is that the body is made of plastic. The plastic may also sport sharp juts that may cause cuts or bruises, and smoothening may be required in some cases. Nevertheless, the plastic is hard and capable of withstanding low-impact knocks and falls. However, it is advisable to ensure proper maintenance to avoid breakages. Â
- Lifetime Warranty
As mentioned, these barbell collars are made of plastic and thus have a longevity of about two years – they can last longer with good care. This, however, should not discourage you as they are backed by a lifetime warranty, which means that you will get a replacement once they break. However, you will need to register the collars within a week after purchase to qualify for the warranty.
Barbell Collars Buying Guide
Barbell collars are more than just a pair of clamps. Considering that they are designed to keep you safe, it is important that you pick the best ones in terms of quality and functionality. These are the factors to consider when shopping for the ideal barbell collars.
- Material
As you can tell from the different reviews, barbell collars come in a variety of materials that include reinforced nylon, plastic, stainless steel, and even high-grade aluminum. The material used is very important as it determines durability and functionality. Plastic barbell collars do not last long as they break easily while steel collars can last for over a decade. In addition to the body, it is also important to consider the locking mechanism – make sure that it is reinforced by a high-intensity spring that cannot lose its tension over time or else the clamps will become ineffective after some use.  Â
- Rubber Grips
Most barbell collars feature rubber grips but some don’t – avoid the latter at all means and ensure that those that do feature rubber grips feature the right type. The rubber grip used should be high-density to prevent wear and tear as it will undergo a lot of friction over time. Remember: barbell collars are as good as they grip.
- Capacity
How much weight can you lift? Whatever the capacity, ensure that the barbell clamps you buy can match up. Some clamps are designed to hold 1-inch plates while others are capable of holding 2-inch Olympic plates. It is advisable to buy barbell collars with the highest capacity regardless of your limitations as the goal is to size up over time. Most importantly, do not strain your barbell clamps with too much weight as they may fail and put you in risk.
- Size
Weight bars and plates come in different sizes, so it is important to ensure that the barbell collars you buy can fit. Barbell collars come in a variety of sizes so this should not be a problem. In some cases, you may need to buy more than one pair of collars for different varieties of bars and plates.
- Shape
Traditionally barbell collars are shaped hexagonally. However, some are round and emerging brands are adopting diverse shapes. Still, the hexagonal shape is the best as it helps to improve grip and power. If, however, you are a lightweight, other shapes will do just fine. Â
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are barbell collars?
A: Barbell collars are those hexagonal clamps that you see attached at the end of weight plates on barbells. They are an integral and necessary accessory of weightlifting.
Q: How do barbell collars help keep me safe?
A: Accidents are all too common in weightlifting. Weight plates can slide off and injure you and/or other people at the gym. Sometimes the injuries are mild while at other times they may be crippling.
Barbell collars are designed to prevent these accidents by holding the weight plates in place so that they do not slide and fall off.
Q: Are there any other benefits of barbell collars?
A: Besides keeping you safe, barbell collars also help improve your performance when working out. For starters, they provide the peace of mind needed to inspire you to lift more without the worry of injuries. They also help balance the weights for a balanced workout so that your muscles develop evenly.
Q: Which is the best type of barbell collars to buy?
A: The best type of barbell collar is one that keeps you safe. It is determined by a variety of factors. For starters, it should be made of strong and durable material such as stainless steel or high-grade aluminum. It should also feature high-intensity rubber for a strong grip. The shape is also important as hexagonal barbell collars pack more power than round ones.
