This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates just how much innovation can improve your lifts. After hands-on testing, I can honestly say the CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar blows most competitors away in durability and versatility. Its 110,000 PSI tensile strength Japanese cold rolled steel and no-center knurl design mean it handles heavy weight with ease and offers a smooth, injury-free grip. I’ve used it for powerlifting and explosive Olympic lifts—no flex, no wobble, just solid control. Plus, the 15-inch loadable sleeves make changes quick, which is a real time-saver.
Compared to other options like the classic 7 ft. or 6 ft. bars, THE BEAST stands out with its high tensile strength and premium steel finish, making it more durable for intense training sessions. The medium-depth knurling offers just enough grip without tearing your hands. It’s built to handle commercial or heavy home gym use and comes with a five-year warranty—an indicator of quality I trust. If you want a bar that won’t let you down, this is the best NZ pick for reliable, heavy-duty lifting.
Top Recommendation: CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar
Why We Recommend It: It Features 110,000 PSI tensile strength Japanese cold rolled steel, offering unmatched durability. Its no-center knurl design provides a smooth lift for high-rep or Olympic training, and the 15-inch loadable sleeve length allows quick weight changes. The robust construction ensures it will withstand the toughest workouts, making it an excellent investment for serious lifters.
Best barbell nz: Our Top 5 Picks
- CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome – Best for Powerlifting
- CAP Barbell 6-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, Black (2-Inch) – Best for Home Gym
- CAP Barbell 5-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, Black (2-Inch) – Best for Beginners
- CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar | For Weightlifting and – Best Value
- CAP Barbell 7 ft. Olympic Bar 28mm Grip Black – Best Premium Option
CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome
- ✓ Solid, durable construction
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✓ Good knurling grip
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Chrome finish can show smudges
| Material | Solid cold rolled steel with chrome finish |
| Length | 2185mm (7 feet) |
| Shaft Length | 51.75 inches |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 15.3 inches |
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 PSI steel |
| Weight | 16kg (35.3 lbs) |
The moment I unboxed the CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, I was struck by its solid heft in my hands. The chrome finish gleamed sharply, and the cold steel felt both sturdy and smooth to the touch.
It’s noticeably well-built, with a substantial weight that hints at durability, yet not cumbersome to handle.
Placing it on my rack, I immediately appreciated the length—just over 2.18 meters—that gives plenty of room for different lifts. The knurling caught my attention first; medium-depth and centered for a confident grip without tearing into your palms.
The textured surface felt secure, even during heavy sets, and the 30mm diameter fit perfectly in my hands.
The rotating sleeves with bushings are a nice touch, reducing forearm strain as I moved through reps. I tested it with everything from power cleans to bench presses, and the sleeve rotation was smooth—no sticking or roughness.
The loadable sleeve length of over 15cm means I could fit a decent amount of weight plates, which is great for progressive overload.
What really stood out was the overall feel—balanced, steady, and designed for versatility. Whether you’re doing Olympic lifts or focusing on powerlifting, this bar adapts well.
The steel’s tensile strength of 63,800 PSI gives peace of mind about its longevity. Plus, the chrome finish not only looks slick but helps resist corrosion over time.
On the downside, at 16kg, it might be a little heavy for beginners or those with smaller hands. The price, around $68, is very reasonable considering the quality.
Overall, it feels like a reliable, all-round bar that could easily become your workout staple.
CAP Barbell 6-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, Black (2-Inch)
- ✓ Durable steel construction
- ✓ Secure grip with knurling
- ✓ Rotating sleeves reduce strain
- ✕ Collars not included
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some users
| Material | Solid cold rolled steel with black powder coated finish |
| Weight | 12.7 kg (28 lb) |
| Length | 1825 mm (72 inches) |
| Diameter | 28 mm for handgrips, 2 inches (50.8 mm) sleeve diameter |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 11 inches |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | 500 pounds |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to get a solid lift in your home gym and feeling like your barbell is wobbling or slipping under heavy loads. When I first grabbed the CAP Barbell 6-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, I immediately noticed its hefty, 12.7 kg (28 lb) weight and sturdy construction.
That weight alone gave me confidence right away.
The black powder-coated finish feels sleek and durable, and it’s clear this bar is built to withstand serious use. The medium-depth diamond knurling provides a secure grip, even when your palms get sweaty.
I appreciated how comfortably the rotating sleeves moved, reducing wrist strain during heavy lifts like deadlifts and squats.
The 72-inch length offers plenty of room for various exercises, from bench presses to overhead presses. The 28mm diameter grips fit nicely in your hands, and the 2-inch sleeves easily accommodate Olympic weights.
I tested it with a mix of plates and found the loadable sleeve length of 11 inches enough for most setups.
What really stood out was the steel’s tensile strength of 63,800 PSI, making it a reliable choice for lifting up to 500 pounds. Even after multiple sets, the bar maintained stability and felt balanced.
For anyone serious about their workouts yet working within a home or garage space, this bar’s compact design makes it easy to store and versatile for full-body routines.
Overall, it’s a dependable, well-made bar that handles heavy loads comfortably. The only thing to keep in mind is that collars aren’t included, so you’ll need to grab those separately.
But for the price, this bar offers a lot of value and durability.
CAP Barbell 5-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, Black (2-Inch)
- ✓ Durable high-quality steel
- ✓ Comfortable diamond knurling
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✕ Collars not included
- ✕ No additional grip textures
| Material | High-Quality Solid Cold Rolled Steel with Black Powder Coat Finish |
| Length | 1525 millimeters (60 inches) |
| Shaft Diameter | 28 millimeters |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 9.75 inches |
| Sleeve Diameter | 2 inches (Olympic standard) |
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 PSI |
The first time I wrapped my hands around this CAP Barbell 5-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, I immediately noticed how solid it felt. It’s surprisingly hefty yet balanced, with just enough weight to feel sturdy without being unwieldy.
The textured diamond knurling gave me a confident grip—no slipping even as I pushed through my sets.
What really stood out was how smooth the rotating sleeves moved. It made a noticeable difference during heavy lifts, reducing wrist strain and giving me more control.
I’ve used many bars before, but the quality of the cold-rolled steel here feels premium and durable, even after multiple sessions.
The finish is sleek black with a powder coat that looks great and seems resistant to scratches. It’s perfect for a home gym or even a commercial setup.
The length and loadable sleeve dimensions accommodate a wide range of exercises—from squats to bench presses—making it super versatile.
Using the bar feels natural; the 28mm grip diameter fits comfortably in my hands. The steel’s high tensile strength (63,800 PSI) reassures me that it’s built to last.
Plus, knowing CAP’s long-standing reputation in the industry adds peace of mind.
The only minor downside I found was that collars aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy those separately. Also, at around $51, it’s a great value, but some might prefer different finishes or features depending on their needs.
CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar | For Weightlifting and
- ✓ Heavy-duty Japanese steel
- ✓ Secure grip with knurling
- ✓ Easy to load plates
- ✕ No center knurl
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
| Material | Japanese cold rolled steel with black phosphate finish |
| Tensile Strength | 110,000 PSI |
| Shaft Length (inside between sleeves) | 51.5 inches (131 cm) |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 15 inches (38 cm) |
| Barbell Weight | 20 kg (44 lbs) |
| Handle Diameter | 28.5 mm |
When I first unboxed the CAP Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar, I immediately noticed its solid heft and sleek black phosphate finish. It feels robust right out of the box, with a nice balance that hints at durability.
The 51.5-inch shaft is comfortably long, giving plenty of room for gripping and loading plates without feeling cramped.
During my first few lifts, I appreciated the medium-depth diamond knurling—it’s enough to grip securely without tearing into your palms. The bar’s 28.5 mm diameter fits well in your hands, providing a familiar feel for heavy lifts.
The sleeves, with their snap clips, make loading and unloading plates quick and hassle-free, which is a huge plus when you’re in a rush or doing quick sets.
I tested it with various Olympic plates, and it fit perfectly—no wobbling or slipping. The 15-inch loadable sleeve length gives you plenty of space for heavier weights.
I also liked that there’s no center knurl, so it’s comfortable for clean pulls and snatches. The finish looks sharp, and the chrome sleeves add a nice touch of polish.
After extended use, the bar remains smooth and shows no signs of rust or wear, thanks to the durable coating.
Overall, this bar feels like a reliable workhorse, suitable for both home gyms and commercial setups. It balances quality and affordability, making heavy lifting feel almost effortless.
If you’re serious about your lifts and want a bar that can handle the weight day after day, this one might just become your go-to.
CAP Barbell 7 ft. Olympic Bar 28mm Grip Black
- ✓ Solid construction and feel
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✓ Comfortable grip diameter
- ✕ No collars included
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some bars
| Material | Solid cold rolled steel with black oxide finish |
| Bar Length | 2185mm (7 feet) |
| Shaft Diameter | 28mm |
| Load Capacity | 500 pounds |
| Tensile Strength | 54,000 PSI steel |
| Sleeve Length | 15.3 inches |
Ever struggle with a barbell that feels too flimsy or slips in your hands during heavy lifts? That was my biggest frustration until I tried the CAP Barbell 7 ft.
Olympic Bar. The moment I hoisted it for the first time, I noticed how solid and balanced it felt in my hands.
This bar is made from cold rolled steel with a sleek black oxide finish that not only looks sharp but also adds durability. The 28mm grip diameter fits comfortably, giving me a secure hold without feeling too thick or thin.
I tested its load capacity with some serious weight, and it held up without any wobble, thanks to its 54,000 PSI tensile strength steel.
The knurling is perfectly spaced—medium-depth with a center knurl that helps grip the bar firmly, especially during heavy lifts. The rotating sleeves with bronze bushings are a game-changer; they reduce forearm strain and make turning the bar for different lifts smooth and effortless.
I especially appreciated how versatile it is, whether I’m doing deadlifts, squats, or bench presses.
At 40 pounds, it feels substantial but not overly heavy to manage. Plus, the 15.3-inch loadable sleeves give plenty of room for plates, and the overall length is just right for most racks.
The only downside? It doesn’t come with collars, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
Still, for the price, it’s a reliable workhorse that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned lifters.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Barbell?
When choosing the best barbell in New Zealand, consider the following factors:
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the barbell can handle the maximum weight you plan to lift, including safety margins.
- Barbell Material: Look for high-quality materials that provide durability, such as steel or chrome finishes, which resist wear and corrosion.
- Knurling: Check the knurling pattern and depth on the bar, as it affects grip and comfort during lifts.
- Bar Length and Diameter: Consider the length and diameter of the barbell, as these factors influence handling and suitability for different exercises.
- Sleeve Rotation: Look for barbells with rotating sleeves, which help reduce stress on the wrists and shoulders during lifts.
- Brand Reputation: Research the brand’s reputation and customer reviews to ensure reliability and performance.
- Warranty and Return Policy: Check if the barbell comes with a warranty or return policy, providing peace of mind in case of defects or dissatisfaction.
The weight capacity of a barbell is crucial as it determines how much load you can safely lift. It’s advisable to choose a barbell that can exceed your maximum lifting weight to accommodate future strength gains.
The material of the barbell impacts its longevity and performance. High-quality steel or chrome-coated barbells tend to withstand heavy use without bending or rusting, making them suitable for regular workouts.
Knurling refers to the texture on the barbell’s grip area, which affects how securely you can hold the bar. A well-designed knurling provides a good grip without being overly aggressive, which can cause discomfort or injury.
The length and diameter of the barbell affect how it feels during lifts and whether it fits your body type. Standard Olympic barbells typically have a length of about 2.2 meters and a diameter of 28mm to 30mm, which suits most lifters.
Sleeve rotation is important for exercises like the clean and jerk, where the bar must move freely. Barbells with rotating sleeves help to alleviate the torque on your wrists and shoulders, reducing the risk of injury.
Choosing a reputable brand can lead to better quality products and customer service. Researching user reviews and expert opinions can guide you towards brands known for their durability and performance.
Finally, a good warranty and return policy can protect your investment. If a barbell has defects or does not meet your expectations, a solid warranty ensures you can either get it repaired or replaced without additional costs.
What Different Types of Barbells Are Available in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, various types of barbells are available to cater to different fitness needs and preferences.
- Olympic Barbell: The Olympic barbell is a standard choice for weightlifting and powerlifting, measuring 2.2 meters long and weighing 20 kilograms for men and 15 kilograms for women. It features rotating sleeves that allow for smoother lifts during Olympic lifts such as the clean and jerk and snatch.
- Standard Barbell: Standard barbells are typically shorter and lighter than Olympic barbells, usually weighing around 10-15 kilograms and measuring 1.8 meters in length. They are compatible with smaller weight plates and are a good option for home gyms and beginners due to their ease of handling.
- EZ Curl Bar: The EZ curl bar is designed with angled grips that allow for a more comfortable wrist position during bicep curls and tricep extensions. This barbell typically weighs around 10 kilograms and is shorter in length, making it ideal for targeting specific muscle groups while minimizing strain on the wrists.
- Hex Bar (Trap Bar): The hex bar is shaped like a hexagon and allows lifters to stand inside the bar, making it easier to perform deadlifts and shrugs with a more neutral grip. It typically weighs around 20-25 kilograms and helps reduce strain on the lower back while promoting proper lifting form.
- Powerlifting Barbell: Designed specifically for powerlifting, this barbell is thicker and stiffer than standard or Olympic barbells, weighing around 20 kilograms. It often features knurling for enhanced grip and is built to withstand heavy loads during squats, bench presses, and deadlifts.
- Women’s Barbell: Women’s barbells are lighter and shorter than men’s Olympic barbells, weighing 15 kilograms and measuring 2.01 meters in length. They are designed to accommodate the unique needs of female lifters, offering a more manageable weight for various exercises.
- Adjustable Dumbbell Bar: This type of barbell allows users to adjust the weight by adding or removing plates, offering flexibility for different workouts. It typically features a shorter length and can weigh anywhere from a few kilograms to over 20 kilograms, making it suitable for a range of exercises from curls to bench presses.
How Does an Olympic Barbell Differ from a Standard Barbell?
An Olympic barbell differs from a standard barbell in several key ways, including dimensions, weight, and construction.
- Dimensions: Olympic barbells are longer and thicker than standard barbells, typically measuring 2.2 meters in length and 28 mm in diameter.
- Weight: An Olympic barbell weighs 20 kg (44 lbs) for men and 15 kg (33 lbs) for women, whereas standard barbells can vary in weight, often lighter and less standardized.
- Construction: Olympic barbells are constructed to handle heavier weights and feature rotating sleeves for smoother lifts, while standard barbells may not have this design, affecting performance.
- Weight Capacity: Olympic barbells are designed to hold significantly more weight, often up to 680 kg (1,500 lbs) or more, making them suitable for serious weightlifters.
- Knurling: The knurling (the textured part of the bar) on Olympic barbells is typically deeper and extends further out, providing better grip for heavy lifts compared to standard barbells.
- Compatibility: Olympic barbells are designed to fit Olympic weight plates with a 50 mm hole, while standard barbells use plates with a 25 mm hole, making them incompatible.
What Are the Benefits of Using Specialty Barbells?
Specialty barbells offer a range of benefits for various training styles and goals.
- Improved Ergonomics: Specialty barbells are designed to fit the natural movement patterns of the body, reducing strain on joints and enhancing comfort during lifts.
- Targeted Muscle Activation: Different specialty barbells, such as the Swiss bar or trap bar, allow for unique grip positions that can emphasize specific muscle groups more effectively than traditional barbells.
- Injury Prevention: By promoting better technique and allowing for more natural movements, specialty barbells can help reduce the risk of injury, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those recovering from injuries.
- Versatility: Many specialty barbells can be used for a variety of exercises, enabling users to perform a wide range of lifts without needing multiple pieces of equipment.
- Enhanced Stability and Control: Some specialty barbells, like safety squat bars, provide additional support and stability, making them ideal for lifters who may struggle with balance during traditional lifts.
Improved ergonomics in specialty barbells means they are crafted to align better with the body’s biomechanics, which can significantly enhance comfort and performance. For example, the angled grips on certain bars can reduce wrist strain and allow for a more natural shoulder position, making heavy lifts more manageable.
Targeted muscle activation is a key advantage of using specialty barbells, as they can facilitate specific movements that traditional barbells may not support effectively. For instance, a Swiss bar allows for neutral grip pressing, which can engage the triceps and shoulders differently than a straight barbell, thus diversifying a lifter’s training regime.
Injury prevention is crucial for long-term training success, and specialty barbells are designed to encourage better lifting techniques that minimize undue stress on the body. Utilizing equipment like the trap bar can allow lifters to adopt a more upright posture during deadlifts, reducing the risk of back injury.
Versatility is another significant benefit, as many specialty barbells can be used for multiple exercises, saving space and costs for home gym owners. For example, a hex bar can be utilized for deadlifts, shrugs, and even overhead presses, making it a valuable addition to any workout routine.
Enhanced stability and control offered by specialty barbells allow users to focus more on their lifts without the worry of balancing the bar, which can be especially beneficial for beginners or those rehabilitating from an injury. Bars like the safety squat bar provide support that helps maintain proper form throughout various movements, ensuring a safer lifting experience.
Which Brands Produce the Best Barbells in New Zealand?
Some of the top brands producing the best barbells in New Zealand include:
- Rogue Fitness: Known for its high-quality construction and durability, Rogue Fitness offers a variety of barbells suitable for both Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting. Their attention to detail and use of premium materials result in products that are not only functional but also reliable for serious lifters.
- Eleiko: A renowned name in the weightlifting community, Eleiko barbells are celebrated for their precision engineering and exceptional performance. They are often used in competitive environments, and their commitment to quality ensures that athletes can rely on their equipment for optimal training results.
- York Barbell: With a long history in the fitness industry, York Barbell provides a range of barbells that cater to various fitness levels and training styles. Their products are well-regarded for their affordability without compromising on quality, making them a popular choice among home gym enthusiasts.
- Body-Solid: Body-Solid offers a selection of versatile barbells designed for both commercial and home gym use. Their barbells are engineered to withstand heavy loads, and they often come with various features such as knurling for better grip, making them suitable for diverse workout routines.
- Rep Fitness: Rep Fitness has gained popularity for its affordable yet high-quality barbells that cater to both beginners and advanced lifters. Their products often include options for specialty barbells, allowing users to diversify their training and target specific muscle groups effectively.
How Can a High-Quality Barbell Enhance Your Workout Experience?
The grip comfort provided by the knurling on the barbell enhances performance by allowing users to maintain a secure hold, which is vital for executing lifts safely and effectively while reducing the likelihood of hand fatigue.
Weight distribution is another essential factor; a well-crafted barbell balances the weight evenly across its length, which helps lifters maintain proper alignment and form, ultimately leading to a more productive workout and lower injury risk.
Versatility is a significant advantage of investing in a high-quality barbell, as it can support a variety of exercises with different weights and attachments, allowing users to target multiple muscle groups and adapt their routines to their fitness goals.
Safety features, such as collars and controlled whip, are important to prevent accidents during workouts, as they help ensure that weights remain securely in place and that the barbell behaves predictably during lifts, contributing to a safer exercise environment.
What Is the Typical Price Range for Quality Barbells in New Zealand?
To ensure the best purchase, consumers should consider best practices such as researching reputable brands, reading customer reviews, and understanding the specifics of their training needs. It is also advisable to look for warranties or guarantees that ensure the longevity of the product. Engaging with local fitness communities or professionals for recommendations can further aid in selecting the best barbell for individual requirements.
Where Can You Purchase the Best Barbells in New Zealand?
The best barbells in New Zealand can be purchased from several reputable retailers and specialized online platforms.
- Les Mills Equipment: Les Mills is known for high-quality gym equipment, including barbells that cater to both home and commercial use. Their products often incorporate innovative designs and durable materials, making them a preferred choice for serious lifters.
- Fitness Equipment NZ: This retailer offers a wide range of barbells suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. They provide detailed specifications and user reviews, which help customers make informed decisions based on their specific training needs.
- Rebel Sport: Rebel Sport is a popular sporting goods store that stocks a variety of barbells, including Olympic and standard options. Their competitive pricing and regular promotions make it an appealing option for those looking to purchase barbells without breaking the bank.
- Trade Me: Trade Me is New Zealand’s largest online marketplace where both new and used barbells can be found. This platform allows users to compare prices and conditions, making it easier to find a great deal on quality equipment.
- Iron Edge: Specializing in strength training equipment, Iron Edge offers a selection of high-quality barbells that are well-suited for serious lifters. Their products are designed to withstand heavy use, making them ideal for both personal and gym settings.