Plyo boxes are a valuable piece of gym equipment. They give you loads of versatility in a relatively small footprint, making them excellent for home gyms.
You can use a plyometric box to build explosive power, increase strength, improve coordination, and more.
We’ve personally tested dozens of plyo boxes, including foam, wood, stackable, and adjustable options. We’ve used them for box jumps, box squats, glute bridges, and more. Here are some of the factors we considered (more below):
- Height Options: How tall is the box, and does it offer multiple heights? Is it stackable for more variety?
- Versatility: What exercises can you perform on the box? Is it better for certain training styles?
- Materials: Is the box built of high-quality materials, including wood, resin, and high-density foam? How rigid and supportive is the box?
In this article, I’ll share our picks for the best plyo boxes based on real experience. Whether you’re a CrossFitter, Olympic lifter, powerlifter, or just someone looking to stay in shape, this article has you covered.
What’s the Best Plyo Box?
We found the REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box to have the best blend of performance, versatility, and value. The REP box has the most durable and grippy vinyl of any box we tested, and we love the stability and comfort. With multiple sizes and heights, it’s an excellent option for every movement and fitness level. In our experience, this box offers the best bang for your buck.
In This Article: Our Picks | Comparison Chart | Benefits of Plyo Boxes | How to Pick | Honorable Mentions | Frequently Asked Questions
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box
Best Premium: Abmat RooBox
Best Stackable: Rep Stackable Soft Foam Plyo Box
Best Wooden: Bells of Steel 3-in-1 Wood Plyo Box
Best Adjustable: Titan Adjustable Plyo Box
Best Budget: Synergee 3-in-1 Wood Plyo Box
Best for Small Spaces: Rogue Resin Plyo Box
Best Durability: Rage Fitness Steel Plyo Box
Best Plyo Box Overall: REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box
The REP 3-in-1 Plyo Box is a versatile box with excellent features, including the best vinyl cover I've tested. With a rigid wood core and dense foam cover, you get the best of both worlds.
Key Specs
- Material: Wood and Foam
- Surface: Vinyl
- Dimensions: Small (20″x18″x16″), Medium (24″x20″x16″), Large (30″x24″x20″)
- Weight: Small (27 lbs), Medium (34 lbs), Large (58 lbs)
- Color: Black
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
The REP 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box is my top pick overall. This box is durable, attractive, and includes the best vinyl I’ve tested.
My favorite feature of this box is the covering. This vinyl is extra grippy compared to others, including those from REP. I love the heavier texture and find it helps maintain traction, especially when the sweat starts flowing. Given its thicker construction, I’m also confident this vinyl will last longer than others.
In terms of the overall build, this box has an inner wood core covered with 18mm dense foam. The softer construction makes this a comfortable box that you can confidently use without fear of hurting your shins, etc. If you’ve ever slipped on a box jump, you know exactly what I mean – ouch!
Dimensionally, the REP 3-in-1 box comes in three sizes. Depending on your goals, movements, and fitness level, you can pick the one(s) most appropriate for you. However, the beauty of the 3-in-1 design is that you get three sizes in one box. By flipping the box, you can access a new height instantly, making this one of the most versatile options.
Another huge benefit of this box (and other soft boxes) is that no assembly is required. I also like the simple, understated aesthetic of this box. Unlike some vibrantly colored boxes with oversized arrows and text, this classic design will look great in any gym.
Price-wise, this is an affordable box that offers free shipping. It’s also one of the most well-reviewed soft plyo boxes on the market, making it a great value buy. I highly recommend the REP 3-in-1 soft plyo box to anyone looking for a quality, budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Grippy, heavy-duty vinyl reduces slippage w/ improved durability
- 18mm foam increases comfort
- Wooden core creates a firm foundation
- Classic, clean aesthetic
- Available in three sizes w/ no assembly
- Strong price point with free shipping
Best Premium Plyo Box: Abmat RooBox
The Abmat RooBox is a revolutionary plyo box with molded foam edges for shin protection. It's also available in custom logos and art.
Key Specs
- Material: Wood and Foam
- Surface: Wood with Foam Edges
- Dimensions: 30″x24″x20″
- Weight: 64 lbs
- Color: Natural Wood with Black Edging (Custom Logos Optional)
- Made in the USA: Yes
Summary
The Abmat RooBox is an industry-first wooden plyo box with foam edges. Originally sold directly from RooBox, Abmat acquired the box in 2022, improved the foam, and added customization.
The most notable quality of this box is the unique foam edging. As mentioned above, bashing your shins on a wooden corner hurts. This box was designed to eliminate that, but not at the expense of the rigid wood platform. You’ll definitely appreciate this box if you prefer a wooden surface over a foam one.
The foam is dense and perfectly cut to sit flush with each side of the box. As a company, Abmat specializes in all types of fitness foam, and you can tell with the quality of this box.
Dimensionally, this box only comes in one size: 30x24x20. While this is a popular and versatile size, the RooBox isn’t as versatile as others that offer multiple sizes. Beginners, in particular, may want a smaller size before graduating to the larger one.
Another unique feature of this box is that you can customize it with your own logo or art. No other plyo box offers this, making it a one-of-a-kind offering. Abmat has a specialized printer that can print in full color on the 30×24 panels. After checking out, an Abmat graphics expert will take you through the process to ensure everything is to your liking.
As a premium plyo box, the RooBox is among the most expensive at $275. I recommend this box to those with a bigger budget who like the ideas of customization and soft edges. This box is especially nice for commercial/studio gyms for branding, but home gym enthusiasts will love it.
Pros
- Unique soft edges protect shins
- Custom art and logo options
- High-quality wood with attractive grain
- Side handles make it easier to move
Cons
- Only available in one size
- Expensive compared to others
Best Stackable Plyo Box: REP Stackable Soft Foam Plyo Box
The REP Stackable Plyo Boxes come in five heights, giving you maximum control over your plyo box training. The large surface is great for explosive movements, and the soft construction is ultra-comfortable.
Key Specs
- Material: Foam
- Surface: Vinyl
- Dimensions: 28″x28″x4″-24″
- Weight: 5 options from 16 lbs – 85 lbs
- Color: Black
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
The REP Stackable Plyo Box is my top pick for those wanting more control over their height options. With this system, you can stack different sizes to accommodate your progress and training goals.
One of my favorite qualities of the REP Stackable Box system is that it offers a 4″ pad. Since most similar systems start at 6″, REP gives you more versatility and control. With 6″, 12″, 20″, and 24″ pads, you can build multiple height variations.
A great benefit of stackable boxes is that each portion has the same width and length dimensions. In other words, you get the same landing area regardless of the height. This differs from 3-in-1 boxes and allows you to train with better consistency.
The vinyl on the REP Stackable Boxes is fairly standard. It’s not as nice as the REP 3-in-1 Soft Foam Box, but it’s durable and easy to clean. They also sell replacement covers if you ever need them. There are velcro straps on each base to attach to other segments, making it an easy and secure system.
Like other soft plyo boxes, these don’t require any assembly, so they’re ready to use right out of the box. However, they’re not as rigid since they don’t have internal wood components like on the 3-in-1. REP sells a Stackable Wooden Plyo Box version if you want a firmer foundation. They also ship assembled but have a smaller landing area and shorter segment heights.
Stackable systems are typically more expensive than others, but with greater variety and control, they’re the best choice for some people. If you need anything over 30″, I recommend the REP Stackable Soft Foam Plyo Boxes.
Pros
- More height options increase training variety
- Consistent landing dimensions
- Comfortable foam reduces injury risk
Easy-to-use velcro system - Offers an additional (4″) segment
Cons
- The foam is dense but not as rigid as wood
- Stackable systems are more expensive
Best Wooden Plyo Box: Bells of Steel 3-in-1 Wood Plyo Box
The Bells of Steel 3-in-1 Box is affordable and offers unique features, including a grippy surface overlay, four handles, and removed corners.
Key Specs
- Material: Wood
- Surface: Hexagonal PVC
- Dimensions: X-Small (16″x14″x12″), Small (20″x18″x16″), Medium (24″x20″x16″), Large (30″x24″x20″)
- Weight: X-Small (15 lbs), Small (22 lbs), Medium (35 lbs), Large (57 lbs)
- Color: Black
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
The Bells of Steel 3-in-1 is my pick for the best wooden plyo box. In addition to being affordable, this box has a grippy outer layer and a unique corner design.
The best feature of this wooden box is the hexagonal PVC overlay. Compared to traditional wooden boxes, this layer creates greater traction with your foot, especially when sweat is introduced. I also like the black aesthetic with natural wood accents.
Another nice quality of the Bells of Steel 3-in-1 Plyo Box is that they cut some corners. Wait, what? Yep, they literally cut off the corners of the box to eliminate sharp points. While the edges are still exposed wood, this at least reduces the risk of shin injuries.
Each box (except for the smallest) has an inner support brace for extra rigidity. Another underrated feature of this 3-in-1 box is that there are four side cutouts for easy handling. Compared to other plyo boxes with only one, this box is easier to move around the gym.
With prices starting under $65, including free shipping, this is a great value buy. It offers a 400 lb weight capacity and a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Grippy hexagonal PVC outer layer increases traction
- Corner voids reduce sharp edges
- Four cutouts on each side for easy handling
- Excellent price
- Available in four sizes with inner reinforcements
Cons
- Exposed wood edges can still scrape your shins
- May show blemishes easier than natural wood
Best Adjustable Plyo Box: Titan Adjustable Plyo Box
The Titan Adjustable Plyo Box offers four heights in a compact steel frame. It has a larger-than-normal surface area and a grippy rubber top.
Key Specs
- Material: Steel
- Surface: Rubber
- Dimensions: 25.5″x17.5″x12″-24″
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Color: Red
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
The Titan Adjustable Plyo Box is an excellent choice for small spaces. It’s essentially a 4-in-1 box, making it one of the best plyo boxes for versatility.
You can adjust the box in four heights, including 12″, 16″, 20″, and 24.” Most adjustable plyo boxes don’t offer a 30″ option, but Titan’s 12″ height gives you an extra variation. If you’re looking for a more challenging plyo box, there are better fixed options, but this one is more versatile compared to other adjustable boxes.
Adjusting the box is a little tricky at first, but once you figure it out, you can switch heights quickly. By disengaging a steel security bar, you can position the legs along designated cutouts. Each section has the corresponding height for easy identification, and with the bar secured, it’s a very stable box.
The steel frame translates to a 300 lb weight capacity, which is plenty for most people. However, it’s lower compared to traditional fixed steel plyo boxes.
What I like most about this box compared to other adjustable options is the larger surface area. At 25″x15″, you get a bigger landing surface relative to others. For instance, the REP Adjustable Plyo Box has a 16″x16″ top. The extra width is helpful when it comes to box jumps and other explosive movements.
I also like the thick rubber top, which handles shock and sweat nicely. The slightly raised texture is great for improving traction and feels more durable than others.
Price-wise, the Titan Adjustable Plyo Box is comparable to large 3-in-1 boxes. While it’s slightly more expensive than REP, the larger surface and extra height option are worth it.
Pros
- Adjustable from 12″ to 24″ (more than most adjustable plyo boxes)
- Thick rubber top limits slippage
- Larger surface than most adjustable boxes
- Secure mechanism with steel bar
Cons
- Pricier than standard plyo boxes
- Lower weight capacity than other steel boxes
Best Budget Plyo Box: Synergee 3-in-1 Wood Plyo Box
The Synergee 3-in-1 is a traditional wooden plyo box at a great price. It comes in four sizes and offers internal reinforcements for a 450 lb weight capacity.
Key Specs
- Material: Wood
- Surface: Wood
- Dimensions: X-Small (16″x14″x12″), Small (20″x18″x16″), Medium (24″x20″x16″), Large (30″x24″x20″)
- Weight: X-Small (15 lbs), Small (22 lbs), Medium (31 lbs), Large (47 lbs)
- Color: Natural Wood
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
The Synergee 3-in-1 Wooden Box is a no-frills option at a great price. Synergee has made a name for itself as one of the top value providers in the equipment space. This plyo box is a prime example.
I like that this box comes in four sizes, which is more than most. You can buy the traditional 30x24x20 and down to a smaller 16x14x12. Except for the extra-small, each box includes an inner support structure for additional stability. They also each include side handles to make moving them easier.
The 3/4″ wood is sturdy, and I find it looks nicer than other budget plyo boxes. Assembly is straightforward, but this box uses more screws than some others. That said, each hole is pre-drilled and the box includes all the hardware you’ll need. It took me less than 15 minutes to assemble the largest box.
If you’re looking for a basic wooden plyo box that won’t break the bank, it’s hard to beat the Synergee 3-in-1. Considering it offers a 450 lb weight capacity, it compares favorably to even the highest-end boxes.
Pros
- Great price point for a no-frills box
- Available in four sizes with inner reinforcements
- Side cutouts for easy handling
- High weight capacity of 450 lbs
Cons
- Screws could be longer
- Exposed edges could lead to scraped shins
Best for Small Spaces: Rogue Resin Plyo Box
The Rogue Resin Plyo Box uses eco-friendly materials and offers a compact, easily stackable design. It's highly durable and ideal for small spaces.
Key Specs
- Material: Resin
- Surface: Resin
- Dimensions: X-Small (19″x19″x12″), Small (19″x19″x18″), Medium (19″x19″x20″), Large (19″x19″x24″)
- Weight: X-Small (21 lbs), Small (26 lbs), Medium (28 lbs), Large (31 lbs)
- Color: Black
- Made in the USA: Yes
Summary
The Rogue Resin Plyo Boxes are ideal for those training in small spaces. Their space-saving design makes them easily stackable, and their overall footprint is only 24″x24″ in the largest size.
What I especially like about these boxes is that the top landing area is 19″x19″, which is larger than similar-style boxes. I find the larger surface increases versatility and makes for more confident movements. The open handles on each side are also helpful for moving the boxes.
One downside is that assembly is more challenging than other plyo boxes. With pieces that connect together, it’s a tight fit getting the screws in. I don’t have large hands, yet getting into some places was a bit difficult. However, once assembled, it’s one of the more solid options.
The resin material is formed from recycled plastic, making this an eco-friendly box. In addition to being rigid, it’s a highly durable material. The texturized, molded top is also very good at limiting slippage.
Coming from Rogue, the resin plyo boxes are surprisingly affordable. While I wish there was a 30″ option, it’s hard to argue the value of these stackable boxes.
Pros
- Very space-friendly, stackable design
- Available in four heights up to 24″
- Resin is rigid, durable, and eco-friendly
- Textured top reduces slip and channels moisture
- Affordable for a Rogue product
Cons
- Assembly is more challenging than others
- No 30″ height option
Most Durable Plyo Box: Rage Fitness Steel Plyo Box
The Rage Fitness Steel Box has a weight capacity of up to 560 lbs, making it the best plyo box for durability. It requires no assembly and ships for free.
Key Specs
- Material: Steel
- Surface: Rubber
- Dimensions: X-Small (12x12x12), Small (18x18x18), Medium (24x24x24), Large (30x30x30)
- Weight: N/A
- Color: Black
- Made in the USA: No
Summary
Although steel plyo boxes aren’t as common as wood or foam, they’re more durable and carry a larger weight capacity. I recommend the Rage Fitness Steel Plyo Box to those looking for a durable, space-friendly box with a high capacity.
This box has a similar design to other steel boxes. The wider base relative to the top increases support and prevents tipping during explosive movements. While that’s great for stability, the smaller landing area isn’t ideal for everyone. Larger individuals and those performing box jumps may struggle with the narrow surface.
However, one of its best features is its non-slip surface. Compared to wood and some vinyl, this rubber overlay produces greater traction.
Another nice feature of this box is the hollow frame. Not only is it easy to stack, saving you space, but you can store things underneath. For example, you can place a small container inside for accessories like lifting straps, wrist wraps, knee sleeves, and more.
Depending on the size, the Rage Fitness Steel Box has a weight capacity between 480 and 560 lbs. In my opinion, it’s the best plyo box for durability and heavy users. It also sells for a great price with free shipping.
Pros
- One of the strongest plyo boxes with up to a 560 lb weight capacity
- Welded frame requires no assembly
- Hollow design allows for internal storage
- Rubber top layer increases traction
- Easily stackable, compact design
Cons
- Small landing surface for certain movements
Compare our Top Picks
Compare our selection of the best plyo boxes below based on key specs. Scroll right to see more.
REP 3-in-1 Box | AbMat RooBox | REP Soft Stackable | Bells of Steel 3-in-1 Box | Titan Adjustable Box | Rage Steel Box | Rogue Resin Box | Synergee 3-in-1 Box |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Award | Best Overall | Best Premium | Best Stackable | Best Wooden | Best Adjustable | Most Durable | Small Spaces | Best Budget |
| Material | Wood/Foam | Wood/Foam | Foam | Wood | Steel | Steel | Resin | Wood |
| Size (Weight) | 20x18x16 (27 lbs) 24x20x16 (34 lbs) 30x24x20 (58 lbs) | 30x24x20 (64 lbs) | 28x28x4 (16 lbs) 28x28x6 (24 lbs) 28x28x12 (46 lbs) 28x28x20 (75 lbs) 28×2824 (85 lbs) | 16x14x12 (15 lbs) 20x18x16 (22 lbs) 24x20x16 (35 lbs) 30x24x20 (57 lbs) | 25.5×17.5×12 (40 lbs) 25.5×17.5×16 (40 lbs) 25.5×17.5×20 (40 lbs) 25.5×17.5×24 (40 lbs) | 12x12x12 18x18x18 24x24x24 30x30x30 | 19x19x12 (21 lbs) 19x19x18 (26 lbs) 19x19x20 (28 lbs) 19x19x24 (31 lbs) | 16x14x12 (15 lbs) 20x18x16 (22 lbs) 24x20x16 (31 lbs) 30x24x20 (47 lbs) |
| Assembly | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Color | Black | Natural Wood | Black | Black | Red | Black | Black | Natural Wood |
| Made in USA | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
Benefits of Plyometric Boxes
Builds Explosive Power
Plyometric training is one of the most effective ways to build explosive power. As the name implies, plyo boxes are designed with plyometrics in mind, giving you an ideal tool for developing force transfer and development.
From box jumps to box squats, there are dozens of exercises that can help you train with athletic performance in mind.
Increases Strength
In addition to improving force acceleration, plyometric boxes can help increase brute strength. Single-leg step-ups, pistol squats, and my personal favorite, Bulgarian split squats, are a few unilateral exercises to try.
You can also use them for box dips, hand-stand push-ups, barbell hip thrusts, and more.
Improves Coordination and Balance
Jumping to a box and performing single-leg movements can have real effects on coordination and balance. One of the best qualities of a plyo box is that you can progress over time by elevating or varying height and intensity.
They’re also low-impact, making them an excellent tool for rehab and recovery. For example, jumping or stepping to an elevated surface reduces shock.
You can even use them for mobility with pigeon poses, deep lunges, hamstring stretches, etc.
Great for Home Gyms
When building a home gym, it’s key to have versatile pieces of equipment that don’t take up a lot of space. Plyo boxes are compact, easily stored on the ground, and open up loads of exercises for any type of training.
Furthermore, they’re not expensive, making them perfect for anyone looking to build a budget home gym.
Oh, and they’re great for holding your water bottle and setting up a camera.
How to Pick a Plyo Box
Here are a few of the most important factors to consider when buying a plyometric box:
Materials
Plyo boxes come in a few materials, depending on your budget and needs.
- Wood – A wooden box is the most common and recognizable. It’s durable, affordable, and great for all movements. It may also include an anti-slip exterior lining or soft edges.
- Foam – Foam plyo boxes are also common. It’s comfortable, durable, and suitable for all movements. Foam is more expensive but has several advantages, including comfort and reduced slippage.
- Steel – Steel boxes are the most durable and are either fixed or adjustable. They carry the highest weight capacities and will be welded or bolted together.
- Resin – Resin is a less common option. It’s made with highly durable recycled plastic and typically comes in compact, stackable sizes.
Assembly
Wood plyo boxes generally require assembly, and some are easier than others. Check to ensure the box you’re buying comes with all the hardware you’ll need (all on this list do). Most boxes can be assembled in 15 minutes or less by one person. I also recommend reading customer reviews since assembly is often a pain point.
Height
Plyo boxes start as low as 4″ and top out at 30″. However, stackable boxes let you go higher. 3-in-1 boxes are especially popular because they give you three heights in one box. Ask yourself what type of training you’re doing and what your goals are. Start with a height you can train with now and grow as you go.
Footprint
While plyo boxes are fairly small, they can’t easily be stored off the ground. Therefore, footprint is an important consideration in any gym, especially a home gym. Check the box specs and your pace dimensions before committing to any box.
Thankfully, plyo boxes can be stacked, saving space on your floor. However, some boxes stack more efficiently, including stackable boxes and hollow steel/resin boxes.
Landing Area
When assessing the size of a plyo box, pay close attention to the landing surface dimensions. This is particularly important on adjustable boxes and those with angled feet (steel & resin). The landing area is generally smaller and may not be suitable for all people or movements.
For example, some people aren’t comfortable performing box jumps or explosive movements onto a smaller platform. Measure the width of your natural foot stance to see if it fits the exercises you want to perform on a given plyo box.
Weight Capacity
Not all plyo boxes carry the same weight capacity. Steel boxes are the strongest, making them great for heavier individuals. That said, many soft and wood plyo boxes can accommodate up to 400 lbs. Not all companies state a weight capacity for plyo boxes, but you can check their specs and read customer reviews for further intel.
Aesthetics
Plyo boxes can vary in looks, depending on the materials and design. Some wood boxes have different grains and tones. Similarly, some soft boxes have simple designs, while others have more vibrant decals.
Although it’s not the most important consideration, aesthetics play a role in the overall look of your gym. Look at shop and customer images for good representations.
Budget
Plyometric boxes are generally an affordable accessory for your home gym. Price mostly comes down to materials, features, and branding. Basic wood boxes are typically the least expensive, while stackable foam boxes are on the higher end.
Honorable Mentions
- Rogue Foam Plyo Boxes – The Rogue Foam Plyo Boxes are a solid option for stackable boxes, but they didn’t make the list because of their price and vinyl. I found the REP vinyl grippier and more durable-feeling. They also don’t have a 4″ option and don’t ship for free.
- Rogue Foam Games Box – The Rogue Foam Games Box is another popular 3-in-1 option. However, it missed the list because it only comes in one size (20″x24″x30″). I like the minimalist look, but the vinyl is slicker than REP. It’s also more expensive and doesn’t ship for free.
- REP Adjustable Plyo Box – The Adjustable Plyo Box from REP lets you switch between three heights: 16″, 20″, or 24″. It’s a well-made box, but it didn’t make the list because the 16″x16″ landing area is smaller than Titan. It also doesn’t have as many height adjustments.
- Yes4All 3-in-1 Wood Plyo Box – The Yes4All 3-in-1 Box is the most popular plyo box on Amazon. It’s a good basic wood option, but several reviewers pointed out issues with the hardware and other quality concerns that kept it off the list.
FAQs About Plyometric Boxes
Should I Add a Plyo Box to My Home Gym?
A plyometric box is an affordable, versatile piece of equipment that doesn’t take up much space. It’s a great addition to a home gym for its movement variety. It’s especially good for CrossFitters and functional fitness athletes, but with so many exercise options, anyone can benefit from a plyo box.
What is the Best Type of Plyo Box?
I recommend a quality 3-in-1 plyo box for most people. With three sizes in one box, you can vary the intensity based on your training and fitness level. Soft plyo boxes are more protective and comfortable, while wooden plyo boxes are more rigid and affordable.
What Types of Exercises Can I Perform with a Plyo Box?
The best plyo box exercises include box jumps, box squats, step-ups, glute bridges, split squats, and push-up variations. You can also perform dozens of other movements to build upper, lower, and core strength.