A squat rack is one of the most important pieces of equipment in any gym. With a squat rack, a barbell, some weight plates, and a weight bench, you can perform hundreds of exercises to build muscle and get stronger. I consider these pieces a part of the ‘core four’, which are the essentials for most gyms.
We’ve tested every type of rack, including power racks, half racks, squat stands, and more. We’ve used them for squats, bench press, pull-ups, and loads of accessory movements with numerous attachments. Here are some of the factors we considered when making our list (more below):
- Size: How much space does the rack take up? Are there options for different heights and depths?
- Strength: What is the size and gauge of the steel? What is the rack’s weight rating?
- Attachment Compatibility: What is the hole size and spacing on the uprights? What types of attachments will it fit?
In this article, I’ll share our picks for the best squat racks for different training goals, footprints, price points, and more. Whether you’re a powerlifter, a CrossFitter, an Olympic weightlifter, or just somebody who wants to stay fit, we’ve got you covered.
What’s the Best Squat Rack?
We found the REP PR-5000 v2 to have the best blend of performance and versatility. The 3×3 uprights and 1″ holes accept tons of attachments for excellent training variety. Our favorite is the Ares cable system, which turns this rack into a full functional trainer with a lat pulldown/low row. With multiple height and depth configurations, there’s an option for any size space. We personally use it as our primary rack in our studio gym.
In This Article: Our Picks | Comparison Chart | Types of Squat Racks | How to Pick | Honorable Mentions | Frequently Asked Questions
Our Top Picks
Best Squat Rack Overall: REP PR-5000 v2
Best Premium Squat Rack: Rogue RM-6 Monster Rack 2.0
Best Budget Squat Rack: REP PR-1100
Best Wall-Mounted Squat Rack: PRX Profile Pro Squat Rack
Best Half Rack: Rogue Monster Lite Half Rack
Best Squat Rack for Beginners: Titan T-3 Power Rack
Best Squat Stand: Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Best All-in-One Squat Rack: Force USA G6 All-in-One Trainer
Best Squat Rack Overall: REP PR-5000 v2
The REP PR-5000 is a top-notch power rack with excellent features including 3x3 uprights, 1" holes, strong attachment compatibility, and more.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 3×3 11-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 1″
- Hole Spacing: 2″
- Footprint: 39″-69.5″ long x 50.5″ wide
- Height: 80″ or 93″
- Numbered Uprights: Yes
- Color: Multiple
Summary
I’ve owned the REP PR-5000 since 2020. It’s well-made, aesthetic, and includes several nice attachments, including the new Ares and Athena cable systems. I’m a big fan of 3×3 racks with 1″ holes because they get the best attachments and R&D. When you factor in the money, the PR-5000 is a great option.
You can purchase the PR-5000 as a four-post or six-post rack with either a 30″ or 41″ interior depth, or as a half rack for maximum space savings. You can also purchase the rack in an 80″ or 93″ height. I recommend the 93″ height unless your ceiling clearance doesn’t allow it. The taller height gives you more hole options for attachments and provides a bigger range of motion on pull-ups.
One of my favorite features of the PR-5000 is the outside upright width of 47″. This gives you more room to cleanly rack and un-rack your bar with little concern of clipping the uprights with your plates. Compare this to Rogue, which uses a 49″ width on their 3×3 racks. That extra inch on each side sits closer to the plates, which can lead to you hitting the uprights.
If you purchase the four-post rack, you will need to either bolt it down or use the front foot extensions. I’ve built my PR-5000 as a 6-post, 4-post, and half-rack at different times. In either configuration, the rack is rock solid. I’m currently working on a 6-post PR-5000 with the 300lb Ares attachment as my main rack.
While this rack claims to be 3×3 with 1″ holes, that isn’t entirely accurate since REP uses the metric system (vs. the imperial system on US-made racks). Therefore, the uprights are actually 2.95″x2.95″, and the holes are around 0.98″. This will affect certain US-made attachments. Single pin attachments work just fine. For example, I can use Rogue Fitness j-cups on the REP rack without issue. However, attachments that span multiple holes will potentially not work since the hole spacing is slightly shorter.
Each hole includes laser-cut numbers for easy identification, and you can pick from eight colors on the uprights and crossmembers. You can even mix and match to create a dual color scheme.
REP has numerous accessories, including various safety options, different J-cups, ISO arms, cable systems, etc. Overall, it’s a highly configurable rack that functions and looks great.
Pros
- Highly configurable: front and side holes
- Two depth and height options
- Available with four or six posts
- Several available cable attachments
- Available in multiple colors
- 47″ outside upright width
Cons
- Metric holes are slightly smaller than imperial, so some US attachments may not fit
- Some attachments aren’t as refined as some US-made attachments
Best Premium Squat Rack: Rogue RM-6
The Rogue RM-6 is a premium power rack with 3x3 construction, 1" holes, and a wide assortment of attachment options.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 3×3 11-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 1″
- Hole Spacing: 2″
- Footprint: 76″ Long x 49″ Wide
- Height: 90.375″, 100.375″, or 108.375
- Numbered Uprights: Yes
- Color: Multiple
- Made in: USA
Summary
The Rogue Monster series is one of the most impressive rack lineups on the market. Including squat racks, folding racks, and power racks, it’s a comprehensive lineup that gets the most research and development from Rogue.
The RM-6 is the shining star in the line. This is a 6-post rack, meaning it’s not the best option if you’re tight on space. If you’re looking for something smaller but still premium, check out the Rogue RM-4 or RM-3. In terms of dimensions, the RM-6 has a footprint of 76″ long x 49″ wide. You can pick from three heights, including 90.375″, 100.375″, and 108.375″.
One downside of this rack is the 49″ width. A 49″ width creates less room for error when racking and re-racking a barbell because there isn’t as much space between the plates and the uprights. As such, you’re more at risk of clipping the uprights. I don’t think this is a deal-breaker by any means, but it’s one of the primary reasons we named the REP PR-5000 (47″ width) the best overall rack.
The RM-6 is constructed with 3×3 11-gauge steel, and it comes with 1″ holes and 2″ spacing. A unique feature of all Monster racks is the keyhole design on the side holes. While still 1″, the side holes include a smaller notch beneath, opening up more attachment compatibility. Rogue even sells attachments specifically for these keyholes.
Regarding attachments, Rogue has the most comprehensive lineup of any company in the industry. From basic J-cups to sophisticated lever arms, they have something for everyone. Not to mention their attachment quality is top-notch. Thanks to the steel size and 1″ hardware, you can also easily attach accessories from other companies like Sorinex, REP, etc.
You have several configuration options when building the RM-6, including pull-up bars, J-cups, safeties, and more. I recommend picking the single pull-up bar for the front, the nameplate for the back, the Monster sandwich cups, and the safety straps. The sandwich cups and safety straps are major improvements over the standard cups and pin & pipe safeties.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Great attachment compatibility
- Multiple pull-up bar options
- Available in over a dozen colors
- Includes 8 storage posts and 4 band pegs
Cons
- 49″ outside upright width creates a tighter fit than 47″
- More expensive than most
Best Budget Squat Rack: REP PR-1100
The REP PR-1100 is a great budget-friendly power rack. It's ideal for beginner lifters or those who are just starting their home gym.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 2×2 14-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 1″
- Hole Spacing: 3″
- Footprint: 48″ Long x 58″ Wide
- Height: 82″ or 84″
- Numbered Uprights: Yes
- Color: Multiple
Summary
The REP PR-1100 is the most economically-priced rack in REP’s catalog. With multiple colors, a flat foot design, a lat pulldown/low row attachment, and a price of under $400 shipped, it’s hard to ignore the value it delivers. This basic squat rack is ideal for budget-minded, beginner, or recreational lifters.
In terms of construction, the PR-1100 is built with 2×2 14-gauge steel, which creates a weight capacity of 700 lbs. This power rack has a flat-foot design, so you don’t have to bolt it into the ground. Being a lighter rack, you will notice more sway when performing dips or racking a heavy squat, but structurally, it’s very safe. If you add the weight storage section and/or the lat pulldown/low row attachment, the stability increases significantly, and you’re still in the budget zone.
The PR-1100 uses 1″ holes, spaced 3″ apart. This isn’t uncommon for a budget rack, but when combined with the 2×2 upright, your attachment compatibility from outside companies is more limited. REP does sell the lat attachment, the weight storage, a dip attachment, and a landmine, so you’re still getting a versatile system at an affordable price.
The safety system on this rack is a simple chrome-plated pin, but it’s unique in two ways. The first is that it extends out from the rack by about 4.5″, essentially serving as another J-cup or barbell holder. The second is that it holds the dip attachment.
Additionally, REP introduced strap safeties and flip-down safeties, which are a solid upgrade over the pins.
The footprint on the PR-1100 will appeal to those working in smaller spaces. Most of the rack is 48″ wide except for the rear stabilizer, which is 58″. The total depth is 48″, not including the lat pulldown attachment or weight storage. The height will either be 84″ or 82″, depending on which way you have the multi-grip pull-up bar facing.
The multi-grip pull-up is one of the best features of this rack. Most budget racks only have a single pull-up bar, so getting something with multiple options is a huge plus. It offers neutral, straight, and angled grips for lat training. One side is 1.25″ in diameter while the other is 2″, so you can also train two grip styles.
All-in-all, for the money, it’s hard to beat the PR-1100. This is simply a great budget power rack.
Pros
- Excellent value at under $400 shipped
- Lat pulldown/low row attachment
- Available in four colors
- Includes multi-grip pull-up bar
- Flat foot base: no need to bolt down
Cons
- Steel size limits outside attachment compatibility
- Expect some sway when performing dips and re-racking heavy squats
- 3″ hole spacing
Read Our Full REP PR-1100 Review
Best Wall-Mounted Squat Rack: PRx Profile Pro Squat Rack
The PRx Profile Pro is a patented and quality USA-made foldable squat rack. It includes 3x3 uprights, 1" holes, numerous attachments, & more.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 3×3 11-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 1″
- Hole Spacing: 2″
- Footprint: 26.75″ Long x 52″ wide
- Height: 73″, 90″, or 96″
- Numbered Uprights: Yes
- Color: Multiple
Summary
PRx became a household name in the equipment space after landing a deal with Mr. Wonderful on Shark Tank in 2016. The once two-person business exploded into the premier wall-mounted squat rack manufacturer. These made-in-the-USA folding racks are very high-quality and include impressive specs and attachment compatibility.
I picked the Profile PRO over the Profile ONE from PRx because it includes 3×3 11-gauge steel with 1″ holes, and it comes in various colors. While the 2×3 Profile ONE is plenty sturdy, it doesn’t come with Westside hole spacing, which is one of the biggest reasons to go with a 2×3 rack. With this rack being a true 3×3 rack with 1″ holes and 2″ spacing, outside attachment compatibility is strong. PRx, of course, also sells attachments, including dip bars, spotter arms, pulley systems, benches, and more. The uprights also include laser-cut numbers for easy identification.
The biggest reason to go with a folding wall-mounted squat rack is to save space. They’re especially popular in garages where owners still want to park a car. The Profile PRO sits between 9″ and 22.5″ off the wall when folded up, depending on which version you purchase. These versions are separated by their different pull-up and height options. You can buy with a standard pull-up bar, a multi-grip pull-up bar, a kipping pull-up bar, or no pull-up bar. When folded out, the racks will sit from 26.75″ to 39.5″ inches from the ground. All of them are 52″ wide, which includes the bracket.
The unique design of the PRx folding racks is that they fold down instead of out as you see on others. Those ‘fold-out’ racks, mind you, came to exist after PRx invented their ‘fold-down’ rack. While this method creates very fast and easy action, it does increase height demands. For example, a 90″ Profile Pro rack will require 108″ of actual ceiling height.
Assembly of wall-mounted squat racks can be a little tricky, but PRx has solutions to help people with uneven stud spacing, ceiling clearance issues, baseboard bump-outs, etc. They also have videos available to walk you through the general assembly process. The brackets can accommodate 16″ or 24″ stud spacing, but you can also use a stringer/ledger board to mount.
If you’re looking for the best foldable squat rack, PRx will be hard to beat given their quality and excellent track record.
Pros
- Available in three height options
- Three styles of pull-up bars to choose
- Very durable and backed by an excellent reputation
- Accepts many different attachments
- Extremely space friendly
- Available in 10 different colors
Cons
- PRx racks fold down instead of out, which increases height clearance
- Most expensive wall-mount option
Best Half Rack: Rogue Monster Lite Half Rack
The Rogue Monster Lite Half Rack is USA-made, high-quality squat rack with 3x3 uprights, 5x8" holes, plate storage, and numerous attachments.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 3×3 11-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 5/8″
- Hole Spacing: Westside (1″) through bench zone and 2″ above
- Footprint: 55″ or 62″ long x 53″ wide
- Height: 90.375″
- Numbered Uprights: Yes
- Color: Black
Summary
The Monster Lite Half Rack is a new addition to Rogue’s half-rack lineup. This rack includes several nice features, including Westside spacing, 3×3 uprights, a Rogue nameplate, etc.
The best thing about a half rack, in my opinion, is that you get efficient on-rack plate storage in a footprint similar to a four-post power rack. Not only that, but you don’t have to bolt the rack down, although you have the option if you want. The front foot extensions help stabilize the rack so that you can effectively lift off the front uprights and do pull-ups. These extensions include side holes so you can use band pegs. If you plan to perform banded movements, you will want to bolt the rack down.
All Monster Lite racks from Rogue are built with 3×3 uprights and include 5/8″ holes. This is a very common hole size, which accepts numerous attachments from Rogue and elsewhere. Monster Lite racks also include Westside hole spacing, which is 1″ through the bench zone. This helps dial-in bar placement on the bench press. The rack includes laser-cut numbers on every other hole through Westside and all holes above, which are spaced 2″ on center.
The Monster Lite Half Rack can be purchased in two depths: 17″ or 24″. My recommendation is to go with the 17″ to save on space. The 24″ option doesn’t give you more functionality unless you want to lift inside and you don’t have plates stored on the back. The rack comes with the weight storage pegs, a pull-up bar, J-cups, band pegs, and the front foot extensions. You can also purchase the safety spotter arms on the product page, which I highly recommend.
Aesthetically, this half rack looks outstanding. While I would like to see more color options like on some of the other Monster Lite racks, the all-black look is very nice. I also really like the Rogue all-black nameplate.
Pros
- On-rack plate storage as standard
- Compatible with many attachments
- Front foot extensions eliminate the need to bolt down
- Two depth options
- Westside hole spacing
Cons
- Only available in black
- Fewer side holes than front holes limits some attachment configurations
Best Squat Rack for Beginners: Titan T-3 Power Rack
The Titan T-3 Power Rack is a solid entry-level rack option that you can grow into. It's built with 2x3 uprights, 5/8" holes, and Westside spacing.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 2×3 11-Gauge
- Hardware Size: 11/16″
- Hole Spacing: Westside (1″) through bench zone and 2″ above
- Footprint: 32.75″ or 44.75″ Long x 54″ Wide
- Height: 82″ or 91″
- Numbered Uprights: No
- Color: Multiple
Summary
Titan modeled the T-3 Power Rack after the old-school Westside racks. This low-profile, basic power rack is strong, versatile, and inexpensive. Beginner lifters looking for a rack they can grow into will love this rack, but it’s also suitable for lifters of all levels given its 1,000 lb capacity and other features.
The T-3 from Titan is constructed with 2×3 11-gauge steel and has a very small footprint. Buyers can pick between a 24″ depth or a 36″ depth as well as an 82″ or 91″ height. Unless space is challenging, I would recommend the 36″ depth and 91″ height. The Westside guys lift no problem in a 24″ rack, but it can feel claustrophobic for some people. The 91″ height will also allow most lifters to achieve a full range of motion on pull-ups.
With this being a small footprint four-post rack, I highly recommend that you bolt it down to the ground or a platform. This creates rock-solid stability and eliminates the risk of the rack tipping (mainly if performing kipping pull-ups or squatting heavy off the front of the rack).
The T-3 uses 11/16″ holes due to the metric system, but it’s very close to the 5/8″ holes used on imperial-based racks. Since these holes are slightly larger, you can use US attachments on the T-3, but there may be a very small amount of wiggle. The great thing about this rack, and Titan in general, is that they make dozens of attachments, so you should have no issue creating a versatile unit.
You will also find Westside hole spacing on the T-3, which is great for smaller bench adjustments. Above and below, you will have 2″ spacing, which is standard. The rack comes with two pull-up bars: a 1.25″ diameter bar and a 2″ bar.
Pros
- Available in two depths & two heights
- Westside hole spacing
- Accepts a lot of attachments from Titan and other companies
- Comes with two different pull-up bars
- Rated to over 1,000 lbs
Cons
- Needs to be bolted down
- Metric system is slightly smaller than the imperial system, so some US attachments may not fit
Best Squat Stand: Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
The Rogue SML-2C is a multi-colored squat stand with 3x3 uprights, 5/8" holes, Westside spacing, and more.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: 3×3
- Hardware Size: 5/8″
- Hole Spacing: Westside (1″) through bench zone and 2″ above
- Footprint: 48″ Long x 49″ Wide
- Height: 92″
- Numbered Uprights: Optional
- Color: Multiple
Summary
The Rogue SML-2C is a part of their Monster Lite squat stand lineup. It’s built like the SML-2 but includes multiple color options and laser-cut numbers. With Westside spacing, numerous attachments, and over 800 4.9/5 star reviews, there’s much to like about this squat stand.
One of the biggest advantages of a squat stand is its footprint. The Rogue SML-2C is only 48″ long x 49″ wide, making it a strong option for the space-constrained lifter who wants a standalone rack at a solid price. Like other squat stands, this rack includes a flat foot base, so you don’t have to bolt it down. You can, however, purchase the floor mounting attachment if you want extra stability. This is a great option if you perform kipping pull-ups or banded movements. The stand is rated to hold over 1,000 lbs, so there is little concern over its overall strength and stability.
Like the Monster Lite Half Rack above, the SML-2C is built with 3×3 steel and uses 5/8″ hardware. Westside spacing through the bench zone helps fine-tune starting position, and 2″ spacing above is standard. With this squat stand, you have the option to include laser-cut numbers for an additional $50. This will include every other hole through the bench zone and every hole above. If it fits your budget, I would recommend the numbers. They help line up attachments easily, especially in the tighter-spaced Westside area.
While some squat stands don’t come with a pull-up bar, the SML-2C does. You can pick either the standard pull-up bar or the fat/skinny pull-up bar. With a max height of 88″ and 80.5″, respectively, this gives most users adequate height to perform full range of motion pull-ups.
You can purchase this stand in 11 different colors, which is a great benefit over the SML-2 and the more expensive SM-series squat stands. Regardless of which color you pick, the base will be black, creating a nice-looking two-tone aesthetic.
You will need to purchase the spotter arms with the rack if you choose to do so. I recommend them for safety. Overall, the SML-2C from Rogue offers tremendous value for a well-spec’d, and well reviewed squat stand.
Pros
- Flat foot base: no need to bolt down
- Includes a pull-up bar
- Accommodates many different attachments
- Westside hole spacing
- Rated to 1,000 lbs +
Cons
- Some attachments are not possible as a limitation to squat stands
- Spotter arms not included
Best All-in-One Squat Rack: Force USA G6
The Force USA G6 is a Swiss Army squat rack with loads of versatility, including a functional trainer, smith machine, leg press, and more.
Key Specs
- Tube Size: Varies
- Hardware Size: 1″
- Hole Spacing: 3″
- Footprint: 63″ Long x 72″ Wide
- Height: 91″
- Numbered Uprights: No
- Color: Black
Summary
Where to start – that’s how I feel about All-in-One trainers because they do a lot. Force USA has one of the best reputations on the market when it comes to all-in-one trainers. They currently offer two plate-loaded trainers and three selectorized trainers. The G6 is the most economical of the three selectorized versions.
The G6 All-in-One Trainer includes two 220lb weight stacks connected to dual adjustable columns. This allows users to perform a variety of movements ranging from lat pulldowns to cable curls and everything in between. These pulleys carry a 2:1 ratio, so you’ll feel 50% of the stated load. Therefore, the max effective load is 110 lbs. This is adequate for many bodybuilding/accessory movements, but lat pulldowns and low rows may feel too light to some users. The more expensive G12 is another option, which includes dual 200 lb stacks but with a 1:1 ratio.
In addition to the cable options, the G6 also includes a Smith Machine with 12 locking positions. The smith machine is rated to over 770 lbs, and it includes a safety system that you can adjust based on the lift you’re performing.
The front uprights act as a normal squat rack with 2×3 steel and 1″ holes. These have wider spacing than most racks, but Force USA has all the attachments you need for their all-in-one trainer. In fact, they provide all 17 as standard, including things like safety spotters, a low row plate/leg press, a lat pulldown leg attachment, a dip attachment, various handles, and more. At the top of the rack are two independent multi-grip pull-up bars and a center ring for suspension trainers like TRX.
The footprint of the G6 is surprisingly compact considering everything you get. It measures 63″ long, 72″ wide, and 91″ tall. The unit will ship in two boxes, and assembly is required. At a minimum, you should get help from another person, but there is also the option for third-party assembly. It may be something to consider depending on your skills, the amount of time you have, and your temperament.
Use Code ‘LAB5’ to save 5% on all orders.
Pros
- Extremely versatile with 17 different included attachments
- 2x 220lb weight stacks with a 2:1 ratio
- Dual columns allow for crossover work
- Includes a Smith machine
- Accessories and attachments store neatly on the unit
Cons
- Wider hole spacing makes it harder to fine-tune starting position
- Assembly is required, but third-party assembly services are available
Compare our Top Picks
Compare our selection of the best squat racks below based on key specs. Scroll right to see more.
REP PR-5000 See More | Rogue RM-6 See More | REP PR-1100 See More | PRx Profile Pro See More | Rogue ML Half Rack See More | Titan T-3 Power Rack See More | Rogue SML-2C See More | Force USA G6 See More |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Award | Best for Most | Best Premium | Best Budget | Best Wall-Mounted | Best Half Rack | Best for Beginners | Best Squat Stand | Best All-in-One |
| Steel Gauge | 3×3 11-Gauge | 3×3 11-Gauge | 2×2 14-Gauge | 3×3 11-Gauge | 3×3 11-Gauge | 2×3 11-Gauge | 3×3 11-Gauge | Varies |
| Hole Size | 1″ (2″ Spacing) | 1″ (2″ Spacing) | 1″ (3″ Spacing) | 1″ (2″ Spacing) | 5/8″ (Westside) | 11/16″ (Westside) | 5/8″ (Westside) | 1″ (3″ Spacing) |
| Height | 80″ or 93″ | 90″, 100″, or 108″ | 82″ or 84″ | 73″, 90″, or 96″ | 90.375″ | 82″ or 91″ | 92″ | 91″ |
| Pull-Up Bar | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Colors | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Black | Multiple | Multiple | Black |
| Made in USA | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Types of Squat Racks
Power Racks
Power racks, or power cages, are the most popular type of squat rack. These can range in size and features, and generally speaking, they’re the best for most people. Power racks typically include a variety of holes for different types of attachments that can provide a lot of versatility in your training. They also include at least one fixed pull-up option, and their safety options are the most comprehensive of all squat racks.
If you have the space for a full-size power rack (four or six posts), I recommend one as the top squat rack choice.
Half Racks
Half racks are similar to power racks, except they’re smaller. A great benefit of most half racks is they include on-rack plate storage, which can be challenging on a four-post power rack. With a half rack, you’ll always lift outside of the rack. In other words, you don’t lift inside with safety straps or full safeties. Rather, you lift off the front with safety spotter arms. I often lift off the front of my power rack, so half racks are a great alternative.
These typically, but not always, have a smaller footprint and a lower price point. They include a pull-up option and the same holes for attachment configurations.
Wall-Mounted Racks & Folding Racks
Wall-mounted and folding racks have become very popular in the home gym space. As the name implies, these racks mount to the studs in your wall and fold out when you’re ready to lift. These are excellent options if you want to build a garage gym but still want to park a car in the garage. Another use-case would be building a gym in a small room inside your house.
Like any squat rack, wall-mounted racks will range in price and features. Most options will provide similar hole specs for attachments, but attachment options are generally limited compared to a power rack or a half rack.
Squat Stands
Squat stands are among the least expensive squat rack options. These include a flat-foot base, making them more portable and eliminating the need to bolt down. Depending on which squat stand you buy, it may or may not have a pull-up option. Many will include similar hole specs, but attachment options won’t be as high as a power rack.
While you may think a squat stand would provide a lot of space savings over a power rack or a half rack, that isn’t always the case. You can also purchase independent squat stands, which save a significant amount of space. However, they’re only used to rack your barbell – versatility is non-existent, and you don’t get any safety options.
Combo Racks
Combo racks are most commonly seen in powerlifting, specifically, competitive powerlifting. You can configure these racks for the squat or the bench press, and the biggest advantages are safety and adjustment speed. For instance, when training multiple athletes of different heights, you can use built-in “jacks” to adjust j-cup positioning quickly. Depending on the user, you can also quickly raise or lower the safety height.
All-in-One Squat Racks
All-in-One Squat racks, or all-in-one trainers, are highly versatile squat racks with many different attachments and features. These commonly include cables on both sides to use the rack as a functional trainer. Many of them will have an integrated smith machine in addition to regular uprights for free-weight training. If you want maximum utility in the smallest footprint, these are a contender but know that they’re among the most expensive squat racks available. You should also note that all-in-one trainers can often be “cheap.” If you buy one of these squat racks, buy from a reputable company with strong reviews. Force USA is a great example of a high-quality all-in-one squat rack manufacturer.
How to Pick a Squat Rack
Here are some of the main factors to consider when buying a squat rack:
Price
Squat racks can range in price from several hundred dollars to over $10,000 depending on the company, squat rack type, features, customization, etc. I always recommend starting with your budget and working your way down. While I live by the buy-once-cry-once mantra, know that you can always upgrade your squat rack. Many budget-friendly squat racks are functional, safe, and effective.
Footprint
One of the key factors in buying a squat rack is how much space it will take up. Measure your room and decide how much space you want to allocate to your rack. The good news is that there’s a squat rack for virtually every imaginable space. You can buy ultra-thin wall-mounted racks up to monstrous six and even eight-post racks. It’s also important to factor in height not only for ceiling clearance but also for pull-up height. For example, a 93″ rack may fit in your 8′ room, but you may hit your head on the ceiling when doing pull-ups.
Tube Size
Tube size is important for structural stability, weight capacity, and attachment compatibility. The most common tube sizes are 2×3 and 3×3 in 11-gauge thickness. These will generally hold 1,000+ pounds. They also come with the most attachment compatibility because many companies manufacture to these specs. You also may find smaller or larger tube sizes (2×2, 4×4, etc.) with thinner or thicker gauge steel (7-gauge, 14-gauge, etc.). I recommend 2×3 or 3×3 (11-gauge) for most people.
Hardware/Hole Size
Hardware size is important for attachment compatibility. The most common sizes are 5/8″ and 1″, although you’ll sometimes find 3/4″. All of these are perfectly acceptable from a structural perspective, but compatibility will differ. Consider that 3×3 racks with 1″ holes are becoming the most popular. Companies spend the most R&D on those racks and make the best attachments for them. Still, you can get great quality attachments with other hardware sizes.
Hole Spacing
In addition to hole size, it’s important to consider the spacing between them. You’ll most commonly see two types of hole sizing. The first is the standard 2″ spacing, which most manufacturers use. This offers a lot of physical hole options and lets most users find a comfortable position on lifts. The second type is Westside spacing, or 1″ spacing. This is commonly seen on 5/8″ holed racks. The benefit of Westside spacing is that it doubles the hole options and lets lifters find a perfect starting position. Keep in mind that Westside spacing exists only in the bench zone on most racks. Above, there will be 2″ spacing. You may also find 3″ hole spacing on budget squat racks.
Safety Options
Power racks will provide the most safety options, but all squat racks will provide some safety measures. You will most commonly see pin & pipe safeties come standard on many racks. From there, you can upgrade to safety straps, full safety bars, and half/spotter safety arms. I recommend upgrading to one or more of these, as they’re easier to set up, heavier-duty, protect your barbells better, and are much more versatile than pin & pipes.
Weight Capacity
Most squat racks are going to be able to support a lot of weight. I recommend avoiding anything incapable of holding 700 lbs, even if you don’t lift that much. For example, a 2×2 rack with 14-gauge steel should be rated for 700 lbs, making it a solid budget option. I recommend 2×3 and 3×3 squat racks for most people – these are generally rated to 1,000 lbs+.
Stability
Stability is an extremely important safety consideration. Some racks will require that you bolt them into the ground or a platform. Flat foot racks, six post power racks, half racks, and squat stands typically do not need to be bolted down. Four-post power racks, however, often need to be. If you see on a squat rack’s product page that bolting down is recommended, I highly recommend you do so. That said, there are ways to increase stability through rear stabilizers, front foot extensions, etc., available through the manufacturers. Stability is also important just from a usability perspective. A heavier/larger/bolted-down rack will sway less and feel more solid.
Attachments/Compatibility
In today’s strength equipment environment, versatility is key. Companies are constantly coming up with rack attachments to provide more training variety. Modular racks with front and side holes are highly adaptable and versatile. 2×3 racks with 5/8″ holes and 3×3 racks with 5/8″ or 1″ holes provide the most flexibility when it comes to attachments and compatibility. By compatibility, I mean with other companies. For instance, you can purchase a Rogue squat rack and use Sorinex attachments.
Keep in mind that racks made outside the USA use the metric system, and racks made within the USA use the imperial system. A rack made with the metric system may state that it’s 3×3 with 1″ holes, for example, but it’s actually 2.95×2.95 with 0.98″ holes. True 3×3, 1″ holed single pin attachments will work, but attachments that span multiple holes may not since the spacing isn’t quite the same.
Storage
A great benefit to modular squat racks is that they provide options for plate storage. Half racks and six-post racks are excellent options if you’re looking for integrated storage. You can also store plates on some four-post racks, but depending on the depth of the rack, the plates may interfere with some lifts. An additional benefit to plate storage is that it greatly increases the stability of the squat rack.
Honorable Mentions
- Bells of Steel Hydra Rack: The Hydra Rack is the latest Bells of Steel creation. This 3×3 squat rack has 5/8″ holes, which is a big improvement over their other odd-size racks. It has numerous configurations and attachment options with good cross-compatibility with other companies. It didn’t make our main list mainly because it only comes in black, but if color isn’t important to you, this is a great option.
- Rogue RML-3WC Fold-Back Rack: The RML-3WC nearly made the list. For most people, it’s arguably the better option over the PRx Profile Pro. It comes in multiple colors and has Westside hole spacing. It folds in instead of up like on PRx, which is helpful for shorter ceilings. However, it’s not as easy to operate.
- REP SR-4000: The REP SR-4000 is an affordable squat stand with 3×3 uprights and 5/8″ holes with Westside spacing. It didn’t make our main list primarily because of its larger footprint and single-color frame. However, it does have weight pegs on the back for additional stability.
- Sorinex XL Power Rack: The Sorinex XL Power Rack is one of my main racks. It’s simply outstanding. This 3×3 power rack has 1″ holes and a wide range of attachments. You can customize this rack to any color scheme, add laser cut logos, and more. It didn’t make out main list because of its high price and long lead times. If you want the best of the best, this is one of the best squat racks money can buy.
FAQs About Squat Racks
Do I Need a Squat Rack for My Home Gym?
I consider a squat rack to be a member of the core four: a rack, a bar, some plates, and a weight bench. While a squat rack isn’t necessary for everyone, depending on your training style, I recommend them for most lifters. Squat racks allow you to perform many lifts efficiently and safely while adding a lot of training variety.
How Much do Squat Racks Cost?
Squat racks carry a huge price range depending on a variety of factors. You can buy budget/cheap squat racks up to high-end custom squat racks. The below will show you the target/sweet spot for each type of squat rack, removing low and high options:
Power Rack: $600-$2,000
Half Rack: $500-$1,500
Wall-Mounted/Folding Rack: $400-$1,400
Squat Stand: $300-$900
Combo Rack: $1,000-$3,500
All-in-One Trainer: $2,000-$6,00Are Squat Racks Safe?
Squat racks are very safe as long as they are installed correctly and properly mounted. When combined with other safety measures, including safety bars, squat racks are the best way to lift weights safely.