Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the 5 Best Trap Bars for 2023! As fitness enthusiasts continue to seek versatile and efficient equipment to enhance their workout routines, trap bars have emerged as a popular choice for both beginners and experienced lifters. These unique hexagonal-shaped bars not only offer a more natural lifting motion but also provide numerous benefits, such as reduced strain on the lower back, improved biomechanics, and increased exercise variety.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 trap bars available in 2023, carefully analysing their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re new to the world of hex bars or looking to upgrade your current equipment, our expert recommendations will ensure you find the perfect fit for your home gym and fitness goals. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of trap bars and discover which one will take your workouts to the next level in 2023!
Our Trap Bar Top Picks
- Top Choice Trap Bar: Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar
- Best Australian Trap Bar: Iron Edge Chrome Trap Bar
- Best Open Trap Bar: REP Fitness Open Trap Bar
- Best Australian Open Trap Bar: Iron Edge Trap Bar 2.0
- Best Budget Trap Bar: Titan Olympic Hex Bar
Top Choice Trap Bar: Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar
Pros
- Affordable price for a specialty bar at AUD 460 (USD 325)
- Powder-coated for durability
- Aggressive knurling for a secure grip
- Dual handles offer versatility
- Wide hex width accommodates various body sizes
- Impressive 453 kg (1,000+ lb) weight capacity
Cons
- Knurling may be too aggressive for some users
- No knurl marks can make balancing the bar challenging
- Powder-coated sleeves prone to chipping
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate trap bar, look no further than the Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar. In this review, we’ll dive into the fantastic features that make this trap bar a standout choice and why it’s worth every dollar. Let’s dive in!
The TB-2 Trap Bar boasts a range of features that set it apart from the competition, including its hex width, dual handle design, knurling, black powder coat, and impressive weight capacity. These five attributes make this hex bar an excellent investment for lifters of all sizes and strengths.
In conclusion, the Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar is a top-of-the-line piece of equipment that caters to various lifting styles and body types. With its exceptional features and quality, it’s a smart investment for anyone serious about their training.
Best Australian Trap Bar: Iron Edge Chrome Trap Bar
Pros
- Unique diamond shape for natural hand position and weight distribution
- Two handle heights for ease of teaching deadlifts
- More upright position to protect the spine and better target quadriceps
- Compatible with standard Olympic barbell weight plates
- Built with high-quality materials for durability and longevity
Cons
- May not be suitable for those looking for a traditional barbell deadlift experience
- Some users may need time to adapt to the unique design
The Iron Edge Chrome Trap Bar stands out for its innovative design and superior functionality, making it an essential addition to your workout routine. The diamond-shaped structure not only allows for a more natural hand position but also distributes the load evenly around your body. This makes exercises such as shoulder shrugs more efficient and comfortable.
Crafted with precision and quality in mind, the Iron Edge Chrome Trap Bar features a 28mm diameter spring steel shaft that can withstand significant bending and return to its original position. The stainless steel sleeves are set on bronze bushings, allowing for smooth and comfortable lifting. Compatible with standard Olympic barbell weight plates, this trap bar is perfect for those who want to build deadlifting strength without the technical challenges of traditional barbell deadlifts.
Don’t wait to enhance your training experience and sports performance. Elevate your workout game with the Iron Edge Chrome Trap Bar!
Best Open Trap Bar: REP Fitness Open Trap Bar
Pros
- Removable handles for increased versatility (multiple heights and widths)
- Rackable, allowing for block deadlifts and use within the rack on J-cups
- Chrome sleeves for durability and smoother plate loading (45 cm/17.7 inches in length)
- Cost-effective at approximately AUD 539 (USD 400)
- High weight capacity of 612 kg (1,350 lbs)
Cons
- Slightly less stable than some competitors due to open design
- Handles are spaced 68.6 cm (27 inches) apart, which may be an issue for those with shorter wingspans
- Knurling on the passive side, which may not suit those who prefer a more aggressive grip
The open design of the REP Fitness Open Trap Bar sets it apart from traditional closed trap bars. This open design increases versatility, enabling users to perform a variety of exercises, such as lunges and squats. Additionally, the bar features a built-in jack stand that makes loading and unloading weight plates a breeze.
The REP Fitness Open Trap Bar is designed to be rackable, allowing users to perform block deadlifts using safety spotter arms and other exercises within a power rack. The bar also features removable handles, offering multiple height and width options for a customisable experience. The chrome-plated sleeves are durable and Olympic-sized, ensuring compatibility with most weight plates.
In conclusion, the REP Fitness Open Trap Bar provides a fantastic combination of versatility, affordability, and functionality. If you’re in the market for a new trap bar to enhance your workouts, this option is definitely worth considering.
Best Australian Open Trap Bar: Iron Edge Trap Bar 2.0
Pros
- Allows for a more upright position than traditional deadlifts
- Two handle heights for versatility (63cm/24.8 inches apart)
- Suitable for a variety of exercises, such as split squats and rows
- Features a 35cm (13.78 inches) plate-loading sleeve length
- Feet included for hassle-free loading and unloading
Cons
- Price might be a concern for some
- Weighs 21.5kg (47.4 lbs), which may be challenging for some users
The Iron Edge Open Trap Bar 2.0 is an innovative piece of gym equipment designed to take your workout experience to new heights. With its unique geometry and open-side design, this trap bar offers a wide range of exercise options while maintaining its core functionality.
One of the most striking features of this trap bar is its diamond shape with an open side, which allows you to stand inside and grip the handles laterally. This setup provides a natural and neutral hand position while distributing the load evenly around your body, making it perfect for shoulder shrugs. Additionally, the two handle heights make teaching deadlifts a breeze, while the open design lets your torso stay more upright, reducing shearing forces on your spine.
With the Iron Edge Open Trap Bar 2.0, you can now perform a wide array of exercises such as lunges, Bulgarian squats, single-arm farmer’s walks, Zercher squats, and yokes. The open side design grants you more freedom and flexibility in your workout routine without sacrificing any of the bar’s usual functions. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to revolutionise your workout routine.
Best Budget Trap Bar: Titan Olympic Hex Bar
Pros
- Dual-handle design for varying grip positions
- Heavy-duty construction ensures durability
- 25.5-inch sleeve length accommodates standard Olympic plates
- Knurled handles provide a secure grip
- Ideal for beginners and experienced lifters alike
Cons
- Some users may find the knurling on handles to be too aggressive
The Titan Olympic Hex Weight Bar is a versatile and durable piece of gym equipment, designed to enhance your workout experience and accommodate a wide range of exercises. Its hexagonal design allows for improved biomechanics, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their deadlifts, rows, or farmer’s walks.
One of the key features of the Titan Olympic Hex Weight Bar is its dual-handle design, which offers both high and low grip positions to suit your preference and training goals. This feature, combined with the knurled handles, ensures a comfortable and secure grip throughout your workout. Built to last, the heavy-duty construction of this hex bar promises long-term durability, making it a reliable addition to your home gym.
Incorporating the Titan Olympic Hex Weight Bar into your workout routine opens up a world of possibilities for strength training and muscle development. The hexagonal design allows you to target specific muscle groups while maintaining proper form, reducing the risk of injury. Don’t miss out on the chance to upgrade your home gym and elevate your training with the Titan Olympic Hex Weight Bar.
FAQ’s
How much does a trap bar weigh in kg?
The standard trap bars typically weigh approximately 20-25 kg (44-55 lbs). However, due to variations from manufacturers be sure to check there make and model to get the most accurate weight information.
Are trap bar deadlifts and barbell deadlifts the same movement?
No, they are two different movements that target different muscle groups and have different mechanics.
What are the differences in muscle activation between the two?
Trap bar deadlifts involve more quad and glute activation, while barbell deadlifts focus more on the posterior chain, including the hamstrings, erectors, and glutes.
Which is better for beginners?
Generally, the trap bar deadlift is considered more beginner-friendly due to its more evenly distributed weight and adjustable handles.
Which is better for sports performance?
Trap bar deadlifts are typically preferred for sports performance, as they involve more forward movement and quad involvement, which is beneficial for activities like jumping and sprinting.
Which is safer?
Both movements are safe when performed correctly with proper form and progressive overload. It is essential to learn proper technique and not overload either exercise.
Which is better for back gains?
Barbell deadlifts have a more significant focus on the posterior chain and are generally better for building a strong back.