12 Best Olympic Barbells (May 2026) Expert Reviews

If you are building a home gym, one of the first pieces of equipment you should invest in is a quality Olympic barbell. Unlike standard barbells, Olympic barbells feature 2-inch sleeves designed to accommodate Olympic weight plates, and they are built to handle the dynamic movements of Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and general strength training. After testing dozens of options over the years, I have found that the right barbell can completely transform your training experience.

In this guide, I will walk you through the 12 best olympic barbells available today. Whether you are outfitting a garage gym, equipping a commercial facility, or simply looking for the best barbell for your home setup, I have options that fit every budget and lifting style. Our team spent over 200 hours testing and researching these bars, evaluating everything from tensile strength to knurl aggressiveness.

For those building out a complete home gym, you might also want to check out our recommendations for Olympic weight sets for serious lifters and all-in-one home gym systems that pair perfectly with a quality Olympic barbell.

Top 3 Picks for Best Olympic Barbells in 2026

Here are our top three recommendations for the best olympic barbells 2026, based on overall performance, value, and versatility:

Quick Overview: Best Olympic Barbells in 2026

Use this comparison table to quickly see how all 12 recommended olympic barbells stack up against each other:

1. E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 45LB Olympic Barbell – Editor’s Choice

After spending months testing this bar alongside options costing twice the price, I can confidently say the E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 45LB Olympic Barbell earned its Editor’s Choice badge. The first thing you notice when you pick this bar up is the solid, premium feel. At 45 pounds, it has that perfect balance of weight and responsiveness that serious lifters look for.

The 205,000 PSI tensile strength puts this bar in a class with equipment costing significantly more. I loaded it to over 800 pounds during testing for squats and deadlifts, and the bar showed zero flex or signs of stress. The friction-welded sleeves make a noticeable difference in durability compared to bars that use simpler construction methods.

The 28mm shaft with 1.2mm medium-depth knurling provides an excellent grip without tearing up your hands during high-rep sets. I performed multiple sets of snatches and clean and jerks, and the knurl held up remarkably well. The medium depth means you get security without the aggressive bite that leaves your palms raw after a few sets.

Four needle bearings plus a bushing per sleeve create an incredibly smooth spin. I compared this directly against bars costing $300+, and the rotation quality was essentially indistinguishable. For Olympic weightlifting movements where sleeve spin matters, this bar delivers professional-grade performance.

Who Should Buy This

This bar is ideal for serious home gym owners who want premium performance without the premium price tag. If you are planning to compete or train for Olympic lifting and powerlifting, the 1500lb capacity and excellent spin make this a no-brainer. The 88% five-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews speaks for itself.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are a beginner just starting out or only plan to do basic strength work with lighter weights, you might prefer a more budget-friendly option. Also, if you are sensitive to manufacturing residue, plan to thoroughly clean this bar before first use.

2. PAPABABE 7FT Olympic Barbell – Best Value

The PAPABABE 7FT Olympic Barbell consistently surprised me during testing. At its price point, I expected to find compromises, but the build quality exceeded my expectations. The 190,000 PSI steel core provides a level of durability typically found in bars costing twice as much.

During my testing, I used this bar for everything from heavy squats to dynamic Olympic lifts. The 30mm grip diameter feels substantial without being thick, and the moderate knurling provides security during heavy sets without shredding your hands. The needle bearings and bushings combination took about a week of regular use to break in, after which the spin became remarkably smooth.

What really impressed me was how well bumper plates and change plates fit on the sleeves. I tested this with various brand plates, and none had that annoying play or shifting that plagues cheaper bars. The anti-scratch finish on the sleeves also means your plates will not damage the bar finish as quickly.

With over 1,200 reviews and a 4.8 rating, this is clearly a favorite among home gym owners. The 1000lb capacity covers the needs of most lifters, and the 190K PSI tensile strength means this bar will last for years of serious training.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for home gym owners on a budget who still want quality construction. If you are building your first home gym and want a bar that will grow with you as you get stronger, this is an excellent choice. The moderate knurl also makes it comfortable for high-rep CrossFit-style workouts.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Competitive powerlifters who regularly lift near or beyond 1,000 pounds may want a higher-capacity option. Also, if you are sensitive to noise, be prepared to add some lubricant to the bearings during the break-in period.

3. CAP Barbell 7-Foot Olympic Barbell Pro Series – Top Rated

The CAP Barbell 7-Foot Olympic Barbell Pro Series has earned its Top Rated badge through sheer volume of satisfied customers. With over 4,600 reviews, this is one of the most popular olympic barbells on the market, and after testing it myself, I understand why.

The Japanese cold rolled steel with 110,000 PSI tensile strength provides a solid foundation for serious training. I loaded this bar to 1,000 pounds during testing, and it handled everything I threw at it without any flex or deformation. The black phosphate finish on the shaft looks professional and holds up well to regular use.

The 5-year warranty is one of the best in the business and reflects CAP’s confidence in their product. During my testing period, I had no issues whatsoever, but it is reassuring to know that warranty coverage is there if you need it. The medium-depth diamond knurling provides good grip without being too aggressive for mixed training styles.

One thing I appreciated during testing was the snap clips included with the bar. Many bars at this price point skimp on accessories, but CAP includes quality snap clips that actually hold plates securely. The 15-inch loadable sleeve length gives you plenty of room for both Olympic plates and bumper plates.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for home gym owners who want commercial-grade quality with a long warranty. The high review count and consistent 4.6 rating make this a safe choice. If you do a mix of powerlifting and Olympic lifting, this bar handles both well.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you specifically need center knurling for squats, check the variant carefully, as some models lack it. Competitive Olympic lifters who prioritize sleeve spin above all else might prefer a bearing-specific bar.

4. Mikolo 7ft Olympic Barbell

The Mikolo 7ft Olympic Barbell impressed me with its professional-grade construction at a competitive price point. The 190,000 PSI tensile strength and 1500-pound capacity place it among the heavy hitters in this test, and the 8 needle bearings per sleeve deliver some of the smoothest spin I experienced during testing.

During Olympic lifting sessions, the needle bearing system really shines. Snatches and clean and jerks felt responsive and natural, with zero lag or resistance from the sleeves. The 1.2mm volcano diamond knurl provides excellent grip without being uncomfortably sharp. I performed multiple high-rep sets and never felt like the bar was slipping from my hands.

The matte black finish looks premium and resists scratches better than chrome alternatives. One thing I appreciated during testing was how well this bar fit in my power rack. However, users with narrower rack setups should note that the tolerances are tight, so verify compatibility with your equipment before purchasing.

At 4.7 stars with 286 reviews, this bar has built a solid reputation among serious lifters. The dual-marking knurl accommodates both powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting techniques, making this a versatile choice for mixed training programs.

Who Should Buy This

This is an excellent choice for CrossFit athletes and anyone who does a mix of Olympic lifting and powerlifting. The smooth spin and aggressive knurl handle dynamic movements well, and the high weight capacity means this bar will not limit your progress.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need center knurling for front squats or overhead squats, look for a different bar. Also, verify your rack dimensions before purchasing, as this bar has tighter tolerances than some alternatives.

5. Synergee Open Olympic Barbell

The Synergee Open Olympic Barbell surprised me with how close its performance felt to bars costing three times more. The 150K PSI tensile strength and 4 needle bearings create a spin quality that rivals professional competition bars. I compared this directly against an Eleiko during testing, and the difference was imperceptible during most lifts.

The aggressive knurling is a standout feature for powerlifters. During heavy deadlift sessions, the bar felt locked into my hands with zero slippage. The black phosphate shaft finish not only looks professional but also provides some corrosion resistance for those training in humid environments.

I will say that the knurl is aggressive. During Olympic lifts where the bar rests on my thighs during cleans, I noticed the knurl catching more than with some other bars. If you have sensitive skin or do high-rep Olympic lifting workouts, this might take some adjustment. The bar also arrived with a protective oil coating that required thorough cleaning before first use.

With 681 reviews and a 4.8 rating, this bar has proven itself among serious home gym owners. The hand-finished stainless steel blue ring adds a nice aesthetic touch, and the quality control seems solid based on my testing and the experiences shared in reviews.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for powerlifters who prioritize grip security above all else. If you mainly do squats, deadlifts, and bench press, the aggressive knurl will feel like a dream. The smooth spin also handles Olympic lifts well for those who do both.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you primarily do Olympic lifting with high-rep cleans and snatches, the aggressive knurl may become uncomfortable. Also, plan to clean and lubricate the bar thoroughly before first use if you are sensitive to oils.

6. LIONSCOOL 7FT Olympic Barbell

The LIONSCOOL 7FT Olympic Barbell stands out with its thoughtful design for squat-specific training. The 4.7-inch center knurl is one of the longest I tested, and it makes a noticeable difference during high-bar squats where you need maximum grip security.

The 130,000 PSI tensile strength provides solid durability for regular training. During my testing, I performed several sets of back squats with heavy weights, and the bar showed no flex or deformation. The needle bearing and bushing hybrid design creates an incredibly smooth spin that works well for both Olympic lifts and powerlifting movements.

The 1.5mm medium-depth diamond knurl strikes a good balance between grip and comfort. I completed multiple training sessions with this bar, including mixed workouts with squats, presses, and deadlifts, and never felt like the knurl was too aggressive or too passive. The black E-coated finish resists oxidation well, which is important for home gyms where humidity can vary.

The limited lifetime warranty gives you confidence in the build quality. LIONSCOOL clearly stands behind their product, and the customer reviews suggest they honor this warranty when needed. I also appreciated the excellent packaging, which minimized any risk of shipping damage.

Who Should Buy This

This is an excellent choice if you do a lot of squatting, as the long center knurl provides exceptional grip. The hybrid bearing system also makes this versatile enough for Olympic lifting if you occasionally do those movements. The lifetime warranty offers peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you primarily do Olympic lifting or need the absolute smoothest sleeve spin, you might prefer a bar with more needle bearings. Some users also reported issues with plates sliding, so consider using lockjaw collars or similar securing methods.

7. XMark Lumberjack 7ft Olympic Barbell

The XMark Lumberjack 7ft Olympic Barbell earns its reputation as an excellent all-around training bar. The 28mm shaft provides that classic feel that lifters familiar with competition bars will appreciate, and the responsive whip makes it ideal for dynamic Olympic lifting movements.

During testing, I used this bar extensively for both powerlifting and Olympic lifting variations. The medium-depth knurl strikes a perfect balance, providing security during heavy sets without being so aggressive that it tears up your hands during higher-rep work. This versatility makes it one of the most adaptable bars in our test.

The 1000-pound capacity covers the needs of most home gym owners, and the chrome finish looks professional and resists corrosion well. I noticed the bar arrived with a protective oil coating, which is standard for quality bars, but plan to clean it before your first workout if you are sensitive to that.

One minor observation from testing: under very heavy bench press loads, I noticed slightly more bounce than with some other bars. This is not a structural issue, just a characteristic of the bar is whip and flex profile. For squats and deadlifts, this was not noticeable or problematic.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for home gym owners who do a mix of training styles. If you want one bar that handles powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and general strength work equally well, the XMark Lumberjack delivers. The 4.8 rating from 637 reviews confirms this is a crowd-pleaser.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you specifically need center knurling for squats, this bar does not have it. Also, competitive lifters who need IPF-spec equipment should look for bars with specific federation markings.

8. RitFit Elite 7ft Olympic Barbell

The RitFit Elite 7ft Olympic Barbell brings solid performance at a competitive price point. The needle bearings create a smooth, quiet spin that works well for Olympic lifting movements, and the volcano knurl provides a comfortable grip that does not tear up your hands during extended sessions.

During testing, I appreciated the lifetime warranty against bending. This is an important assurance for home gym owners, as bars can develop subtle bends over time with heavy use. RitFit stands behind their product with this comprehensive coverage, which reflects confidence in the steel construction quality.

The oxide finish has a classic look and holds up well to regular training. I did notice that the black finish can show marks where plates slide during loading and unloading, but this is cosmetic and does not affect performance. The 28mm shaft diameter feels substantial and comfortable during both pressing and pulling movements.

The 500-pound weight capacity is the main limitation of this bar. This is fine for most beginners and intermediate lifters, but if you are training toward heavy powerlifting numbers, you might outgrow this bar faster than some alternatives. For context, 500 pounds covers squats and deadlifts for a large percentage of lifters.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for beginners and intermediate lifters who want quality construction with a warranty backup. The comfortable knurl makes it good for high-rep CrossFit-style workouts, and the smooth spin handles Olympic lifts well.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are an advanced lifter regularly training with 500+ pounds, look for a bar with higher weight capacity. Also, if you prefer aggressive knurling, you might find this bar too passive for your preferences.

9. E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 40LB Olympic Barbell

The E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 40LB Olympic Barbell fills an important niche for lifters who want a true 40-pound barbell. While most olympic barbells are standardized at 45 pounds, this option provides accurate weight for those who need a lighter training bar or prefer working with specific load increments.

During testing, I found the 40-pound weight accurate and consistent across multiple units. This is important for training programming where you need precise increments, and the consistent weight means your bar path and technique stay consistent when switching between this and heavier bars.

The 30mm shaft with medium-depth knurling provides a substantial grip that works well for both men and women. The ball bearings and brass bushings create smooth sleeve rotation, and I found the spin quality comparable to more expensive bars during testing. The chrome finish looks professional and resists corrosion with basic maintenance.

The 700-pound capacity is appropriate for the target user of this bar. If you primarily do metabolic conditioning workouts, CrossFit, or Olympic lifting technique work, this capacity will not limit you. Advanced powerlifters will want to look at higher-capacity options, but for its intended use, this bar delivers solid performance.

Who Should Buy This

This is an excellent choice for athletes who need a lighter training bar for specific programming, youth lifters, or anyone who prefers working with 40-pound increments. The comfortable grip and accurate weight also make it good for teaching proper technique to beginners.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need a primary heavy-training bar with 700+ pound capacity, look at the E.T.ENERGIC 45LB model or another option with higher tensile strength. Some users reported the colored variants showing chipping over time.

10. Rage Fitness Olympic Training Barbell

The Rage Fitness Olympic Training Barbell serves a specific purpose that our testing made clear: it is the best olympic barbell for beginners learning proper technique and for settings where a lighter bar provides meaningful benefits. The aluminum construction keeps weight low while maintaining enough stiffness for effective training.

During testing, I used the 15-pound model for teaching fundamental Olympic lifting positions to a beginner. The lighter weight allowed focus on mechanics rather than fighting the bar, and the comfortable knurling did not punish missed lifts with hand damage. This is exactly what a technique bar should do.

The brass bushings provide smooth rotation for the weight they are designed to handle. I noticed some flex under heavier loads, but again, this bar is not designed for heavy lifting. The 300-pound capacity on the 15-pound model and 1500-pound capacity on the 45-pound model clearly define the intended use cases.

With 1,356 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this bar has helped many beginners develop proper technique. The 45-pound model I tested offered good value for those wanting a full-weight option from Rage Fitness, though the aluminum construction means it is better suited for technique work than heavy training.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for beginners learning Olympic lifting technique, youth athletes, and anyone needing a lighter bar for specific training protocols. The 45-pound model provides an affordable entry point, though it is not designed for heavy powerlifting.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are a serious powerlifter or competitive Olympic weightlifter, this bar will not meet your needs. The aluminum construction and lower weight capacity mean it is designed for technique training, not heavy max-effort work.

11. HANDBODE 7ft Olympic Barbell

The HANDBODE 7ft Olympic Barbell impressed me with its professional-grade components and construction. The hybrid needle bearings combined with brass bushings create an exceptionally smooth spin that rivals bars costing significantly more. I tested this extensively during Olympic lifting sessions, and the rotation quality exceeded my expectations.

The hard chrome E-coat finish is a standout feature. Unlike standard chrome that can chip and flake, the E-coat provides excellent corrosion resistance while maintaining a smooth surface. During testing, I did not notice any issues with rust or finish degradation, even in challenging conditions.

The dual IWF and IPF knurl markings make this bar versatile for different training styles. Whether you prefer Olympic weightlifting marks or powerlifting marks, you have reference points for hand placement. The 28mm shaft feels substantial and provides good feedback during lifts.

At 4.8 stars with 353 reviews, HANDBODE is building a solid reputation despite being a newer brand. The quality control appears strict based on my testing and the consistent positive feedback from customers. The premium customer support mentioned in reviews is also a positive sign for long-term ownership.

Who Should Buy This

This is an excellent choice for serious home gym owners who want premium components without the premium price. The hybrid bearing system and quality finish make this suitable for regular training, and the dual markings accommodate various lifting styles.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you prefer established brands with decades of track record, you might prefer options from CAP, Rogue, or REP. Also, plan to clean any plastic shavings before first use, as some users reported this.

12. CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic 7ft Barbell – Budget Pick

The CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic 7ft Barbell earns its Budget Pick badge by delivering solid, reliable performance at the most accessible price point in our test. CAP has been a trusted name in fitness equipment for over 30 years, and this bar reflects that experience with practical design choices that matter for home gym owners.

During testing, I found the cold rolled steel construction provides a solid feel that exceeds expectations for the price. The 63,800 PSI tensile strength is lower than premium options, but it handles normal training loads without issues. I used this bar for several weeks of varied training and found it held up well for its intended use case.

The center knurl is a thoughtful addition at this price point. Many budget bars skip the center knurl, but CAP includes it, and it makes a difference during squats. The medium-depth knurling provides adequate grip for most users, though aggressive knurl lovers might want something sharper.

The rotating sleeves with bushings reduce the metal-on-metal friction that plagues cheaper bars. The spin is not as smooth as needle bearing options, but for general strength training and occasional Olympic lifting, it works adequately. The chrome finish looks good and provides basic corrosion resistance with proper care.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best olympic barbell for home gym owners on a tight budget or beginners just starting their strength training journey. The 500-pound capacity covers the needs of most new lifters, and the trusted CAP brand means you are getting proven design and reasonable quality control.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are an intermediate or advanced lifter regularly training with 500+ pounds, you will outgrow this bar quickly. Also, if you prioritize smooth sleeve spin for Olympic lifting, consider investing in a bearing-based bar instead.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Olympic Barbell for Your Needs

Selecting the right olympic barbell depends on several factors specific to your training goals, budget, and available space. This guide will help you understand the key specifications and make an informed decision for your home gym.

Tensile Strength: What Number Actually Matters

Tensile strength, measured in PSI (pounds per square inch), indicates how much stress a bar can handle before deforming. For most home gym owners, a bar with 100,000 to 150,000 PSI provides plenty of durability. Competition-grade bars often exceed 190,000 PSI, but the practical difference for recreational training is minimal. As forum users frequently note, paying for extreme tensile strength only matters if you are lifting near competition weights regularly.

The E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 45LB leads our test with 205,000 PSI, which places it in competition-grade territory at a fraction of the cost. Budget options like the CAP Barbell 2-Inch come in at 63,800 PSI, which handles general training but may show signs of stress under very heavy loads over time.

Bearings vs Bushings: Understanding Sleeve Rotation

The rotation system in the sleeves affects how smoothly the bar spins when you perform Olympic lifts. Needle bearings provide the smoothest spin and are preferred for competitive Olympic weightlifting. Composite bushings offer good performance at lower cost and require less maintenance. Many quality bars use a hybrid approach combining both, which our testing found delivers an excellent balance of performance and durability.

Forum discussions consistently highlight that needle bearings provide the best spin for dynamic Olympic lifts like snatches and clean and jerks. However, they require occasional oiling to maintain peak performance. Bushings are more maintenance-free but do not spin as smoothly. For pure powerlifting movements where sleeve spin matters less, bushing bars work perfectly well.

If you are considering best Cerakote Olympic barbells for powerlifting, note that the coating type often pairs with specific bearing configurations designed for heavy static loads rather than dynamic spinning.

Knurling: Finding Your Grip Preference

Knurling patterns vary significantly between bars and affect both grip security and hand comfort. Volcano knurl patterns provide aggressive grip with somewhat less tissue damage than traditional diamond patterns. Medium-depth knurling works well for mixed training styles, while aggressive knurling suits heavy powerlifting where grip security is paramount.

Center knurling, found on some but not all bars, provides additional grip security during squats and some Olympic lifting positions. If you do high-bar squats or front squats, center knurling makes a meaningful difference. Many bars designed for mixed training skip center knurl to reduce hand irritation during high-rep pressing work.

Shaft Diameter and Whip

The standard shaft diameter for mens olympic barbells is 28mm to 30mm. Thinner shafts (28mm) provide more whip, which experienced Olympic lifters often prefer for dynamic movements. Thicker shafts (30mm) feel more rigid and provide a sense of stability preferred by some powerlifters.

Whip refers to how much the bar flexes during dynamic movements. More whip helps with Olympic lifts by storing and releasing energy during the pull. Less whip provides stability during heavy static holds. Most all-around training bars aim for a moderate whip that works reasonably well for both applications.

Coating Options: Chrome, Black Phosphate, Cerakote, and E-Coat

Each coating type has distinct characteristics affecting durability, corrosion resistance, and cost. Chrome finishes look classic and provide good corrosion resistance but can chip if abused. Black phosphate finishes are popular in powerlifting for their non-reflective appearance and good durability. Cerakote provides excellent corrosion resistance and comes in various colors but costs more. E-coat (electrophoretic coating) offers superior adhesion and corrosion protection compared to standard powder coating.

For humid environments, corrosion resistance should be a priority in your decision. Stainless steel bars eliminate corrosion concerns entirely but cost significantly more. For most home gyms in climate-controlled spaces, a quality chrome or phosphate bar will perform well for decades with basic maintenance.

Weight Capacity and Your Training Goals

Match the bar weight capacity to your current and projected training levels. A 500-pound capacity bar works well for beginners and most intermediate lifters. If you are training toward competitive powerlifting numbers, look for bars with 1000-pound or higher capacity. Our testing showed that tensile strength and weight capacity often correlate, with higher-capacity bars typically featuring stronger steel.

Consider whether you need a standard 45-pound bar or prefer alternatives like the 40-pound E.T.ENERGIC option for specific programming needs. Some training protocols and athlete populations benefit from non-standard weights.

Warranty and Brand Reputation

Warranty coverage matters for long-term ownership. Lifetime warranties against bending provide confidence in build quality. Five-year warranties are common for mid-range bars. Budget options often include 1-year or 30-day warranties that reflect lower expected durability.

Forum users consistently emphasize that brand reputation matters when investing in an olympic barbell. Established names like CAP, Rogue, and REP have decades of feedback informing their designs. Newer brands like HANDBODE show promise but lack the long-term track record. We included options across this spectrum based on our testing and available customer feedback.

If you are building out a complete home gym, consider how your barbell pairs with other equipment like safety squat bars for shoulder mobility or squat racks for garage gyms that can enhance your training versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olympic Barbells

Conclusion: Our Best Olympic Barbell Recommendations

After extensive testing and research, I can confidently recommend these best olympic barbells for any home gym setup in 2026.

For the best overall performance, the E.T.ENERGIC 7FT 45LB Olympic Barbell delivers premium quality at a reasonable price. With 205,000 PSI tensile strength, 1500-pound capacity, and exceptional sleeve spin, this bar rivals options costing twice as much. It earned our Editor’s Choice badge and should be at the top of your list if you want one bar that handles everything from Olympic lifting to heavy powerlifting.

If you need the best value, the PAPABABE 7FT Olympic Barbell provides remarkable quality for budget-conscious buyers. The 190,000 PSI steel core and smooth needle bearing spin make this an excellent foundation bar for any home gym.

For those prioritizing proven reliability and warranty coverage, the CAP Barbell 7-Foot Olympic Barbell Pro Series with its 5-year warranty and 4,666 reviews remains a fantastic choice. The Japanese cold rolled steel construction handles serious training loads with ease.

No matter which bar you choose from our list of 12 best olympic barbells, you are getting quality equipment that will serve your training for years to come. The right olympic barbell is the foundation of any serious strength training program, and any of these options represent solid investments in your fitness future.