Olympic bumper plates are a bona fide home gym essential due to their low bounce, safety features, and lower noise rating when compared to iron weight plates. However, choosing a set of bumper plates can be difficult due to the amount of variety currently present on the market.
In 2024, the Garage Gym Reviews team helped over 2,800 people buy bumper plates. We’ve also researched more than 100 sets and used more than 50 of them in our personal testing protocols. We score each one from 1 to 5 based on factors from our fitness equipment testing methodology, such as:
- Construction and durability: We carefully assess the materials used and assign a top score to high-quality bumper plates that withstand plenty of drops.
- Weight tolerance: A score of 3 out of 5 is given to bumpers within 3% of their advertised weight when measured on an accurate scale.
- Bounce: A score of 4 out of 5 is given to plates with a low, dead bounce.
- Value: A 3 out of 5 is given to plates with a fair pricing; more competitive pricing earns a higher score.
In this guide, we strive to give our best bumper plate recommendations based on years of use with a large variety of brands and models, along with benefits of bumper plates and resistance training, as told by exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D.,R.D.
The 8 Best Bumper Plates
- Best Bumper Plates Overall – Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates
- Best Home Gym Bumper Plates – Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
- Best Budget Bumper Plates – Titan Fitness Economy Black Bumper Plates
- Best Olympic Bumper Plates – Bells of Steel 45-LB Bumper Plates
- Best Value Bumper Plates – Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates
- Best Crumb Bumper Plates – PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates
- Best Rubber Bumper Plates – Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates
- Best Competition Bumper Plates – Rogue KG Competition Bumper Plates
Current Top Deals
- Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates – Free Shipping to lower 48 states
- Titan Fitness Economy Black Bumper Plates – Early Black Friday: 25% off racks | Up to 60% off everything else
- Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates – Score mystery boxes for 20% off + a free gift
Editor’s Note
At Garage Gym Reviews, we are always testing the newest bumper plates and updating this page to reflect our favorite finds from top brands. Our team of certified personal trainers, elite athletes, and home gym experts has tested more than 50 bumper plates made from vulcanized rubber, crumb rubber, urethane, and more. In November 2025, we re-evaluated and trimmed down our list to eight products to genuinely reflect the best of the best, marking Fringe Sport Bumper Plates as the best bumper plates overall. We also reworked this page to provide more detailed ratings charts and testing notes.
Best Weight Plates Video Review
Best Bumper Plates Overall: Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
At a Glance
- Durable black bumper plates made with virgin rubber
- Competitively-priced compared to the average
- Thinner plate thickness than the standard
- Lifetime warranty is well above the standard
From the virgin rubber used to maximize durability and limit rebound to the great price and unparalleled warranty, the Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates should be your top choice when rounding out any home or commercial gym. With a unique design that makes for one of the most durable 10-pound plates we’ve seen, these bumper plates are even backed by an impressive lifetime warranty—one of the reasons we gave them a 5-out-of-5 score for their customer experience. “That’s almost unheard of for bumper plates,” says GGR Senior Staff Writer Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1.
Construction & Durability: 4.5/5
Design & Ergonomics: 4.5/5
Weight Tolerance: 4/5
Why We Like Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates
Fringe Sport constructs its bumper plates from 100% high-density virgin rubber that features a matte finish and feel—a sign of better, more durable rubber. “Most of the time, you can tell a cheaper-made bumper plate by how shiny it looks,” GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me. “The virgin rubber used by Fringe Sport is a bold black finish that shouldn’t fade away as a result of regular wear and tear.” Accordingly, he rates the construction and durability at 4.5 out of 5.
RELATED: Fringe Sport Belt Squat Review
The design of these plates is impressive, particularly the 10-pound bumpers. The 10s are made thicker and with a higher Durometer rating than other similarly weighted bumper plates, making them resistant to “taco-ing” (AKA, bending in the middle) even when dropped excessively. Plus, their smaller diameter means they won’t even hit the ground if you have them stacked with other plates on your bar. They get a 4.5 out of 5 for design, only because they’re solid black (including the lettering).
Additionally, Ben Emminger, certified sports nutrition coach and GGR Editor, enjoys their ease of use. He explained to me, “I’ve had the pleasure of using these plates in multiple gym scenarios, and I do appreciate the smooth insert that helps when loading these weights onto a barbell.” Ben also liked the raised lip that made handling the bumpers an easier feat.
Caine also enjoyed his experience with these high-quality bumpers, rating them a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 for bounce. “I dropped just the 10s from waist height and from overhead, and the bounce was pretty controlled,” he told me. “I also dropped a 415-pound deadlift from waist height, and there was very little bounce.”
I’m happy with the control I get from the raised lip, especially when toting them at shoulder height, loading up for back squats or overhead presses.
Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, GGR editor
Alternatives
There’s not a lot to dislike about the Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates, but if we had to choose, the aesthetic is a little simple. Don’t get me wrong; it’s a solid, clean look, but even some slight changes would be enough to set these plates apart.
“I would’ve liked some contrast between the bumper plate and the lettering,” Caine told me.
Also, like many bumper plates, these can come with a bit of a greasy finish out of the box. Make sure to wipe down the plates after unboxing to avoid them collecting dust and debris from your garage gym.
If you prefer bumper plates with a bit more bounce, check out the PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates.
Testing Breakdown
There wasn’t much to complain about with the Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates. Here’s how they fared in our testing.
Vs. The Average
Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates are a less expensive option for bumper plates—extremely enticing when you consider their robust lifetime warranty.
| Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $1.79 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm, 445 mm (10-lb plates) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 2.3” | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | 90(10 and 15 lbs), 85 (25, 35, 45, and 55 lbs) | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±1% | ±1% |
| Material | Virgin rubber, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
Read our full Fringe Sport Bumper Plates review to learn more about the contrast plates—essentially the same plate, but with color-coded lettering.
Best Home Gym Bumper Plates: Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are a great value plate based upon our review. Although they’re cheaper than Rogue’s flagship HG 2.0 Plates, they have extremely similar specs and warranty at a much lower price. If you need bumper plates for your garage gym, these are a great option. If you need them for your commercial facility or CrossFit Affiliate, we’d suggest going with something like Hi-Temps.
What our tester says:
“I like that each plate in this kit shares a similar durometer rating for greater integrity. The white, raised lettering helps weight identification easier, but also gives your setup a clean look overall.”
At a Glance
- Affordable black bumper plates
- Average materials and weight tolerance of ±1%
- Thinner plate thickness than the average
- Backed by an above-average 3-year warranty (for 25s and up)
I asked GGR founder and fitness equipment guru Coop Mitchell what made the Rogue Echo Bumper Plates stand out for home gyms, and he replied, “If you’re planning on dropping your barbells, your home gym will need bumper plates that can withstand that abuse without jumping all around your gym.”
The Rogue Echo Bumper Plates suit the needs of most garage gyms with a high Durometer rating of 88—meaning it’ll have a dead, controlled bounce—as well as a sleek design and affordable pricing, especially from Rogue Fitness. These bumper plates earned a score of 4 out of 5 for their bounce during our testing.
Design & Ergonomics: 4.5/5
Bounce: 4/5
Construction & Durability: 4/5
Why We Like Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
The low bounce and quality rubber construction of these durable bumper plates stand out as an excellent match for CrossFit barbells. Coop let me know, “I like that each plate in this kit shares a similar Durometer rating for greater integrity, although I’m always hesitant to drop 10s and 15s on their own given the thinner width.” He rates the construction and durability at 4 out of 5.
Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are also sharp-looking with a fine aesthetic. The Echo Bumpers have a more rounded edge than other plates, making them easier to pick up, along with a thinner width allowing you to fit more weight on the bar. Available in black or colored bumper plates, the raised lettering is painted white for a nice contrast—it really makes the weight plates pop.
Coop rated the design and ergonomics at 4.5 out of 5, adding, “The white, raised lettering helps make weight identification easier, but also gives your setup and home gym a clean look, overall.”
For the price, honestly, these Rogue bumper plates are some of the cheapest bumpers with a decent warranty available. When you factor in Rogue’s excellent shipping rates—Rogue offers free shipping when purchasing a set—it makes sense that we rate the value at 4 out of 5.
The angled edge is a nice touch; it makes a flat bumper much easier to pick up from your home gym floor.
Coop Mitchell, Garage Gym Reviews founder and expert product tester
Alternatives
The Echo Bumper Plates are thinner than your average weight plate, which can allow for more weight to fit on your barbell. However, the thinner 10-pound plates—less than an inch thick—have a better chance of folding or “taco-ing” over time. Coop also warned me not to drop a bar with just the 10s or 15s on, as that can damage them more easily.
Additionally, while the Echo plates are available as color-coded profiles, it’s important to note that these will be the more expensive option. Make sure you factor that into your budget if you want something besides black bumper plates.
The Rogue Echo Bumper plates only go up to 45 pounds. If you’re looking for bumper plates that go up to 55 pounds, check out the Fringe Sport Milspec Bumper Plates.
Testing Breakdown
Rogue Fitness has a reputation for quality products, and the brand’s Echo Bumper Plates are no different. Here’s how we scored them.
Vs. The Average
The average cost of Rogue Echo Bumper Plates is just under the median, but they are thinner weight plates and the 25-, 35-, and 45-pound plates are backed by a longer three-year warranty.
| Rogue Echo Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $2.19 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 lbs | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 lbs |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm (~17.7”) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 2.4” | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | 88 | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±1% | ±1% |
| Material | Rubber, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 3 years (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
You can read more in our Rogue Echo Bumper Plates review.
Best Budget Bumper Plates: Titan Fitness Economy Black Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
If you simply want a cheap pair of bumper plates to either figure out if you’re going to stay with working out at home or don’t have the money, the Titan Bumper Plates are what we suggest. They have easy-grip edges for easy carrying and white contrast numbers and letters so you can quickly identify the weight.
What our tester says:
“I really like the construction of most Titan weight plates. And if their reputation speaks to these plates, you can expect a low-bounce experience.”
At a Glance
- Budget-priced bumper plates
- Thicker plates than the average
- Larger weight tolerance than the standard
- Average warranty of 1 year
If you’re looking for an affordable set of bumper plates, the Titan Fitness Economy Plates are a great option. In addition to the 230-pound bundle available online, you can purchase pairs of 10-, 15-, and 25-pound plates or singles of 35s, 45s, 55s, and rare 100s. Plus, Titan Fitness offers free shipping on all orders—which makes loading up your entire home gym that much more affordable. As such, we rate the value at 4 out of 5.
Design & Ergonomics: 4.5/5
Value: 4/5
Weight Tolerance: 3/5
Why We Like Titan Fitness Economy Black Bumper Plates
We haven’t used these particular bumper plates from Titan, but we have experience with some of the brand’s other products, such as the Titan Urethane Bumper Plates. “I really like the construction of most Titan weight plates,” GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me, and I’ve enjoyed them the few times I’ve used them, as well. With the classic rubber construction and stainless steel inserts common in durable bumper plates, we’re confident in giving them a 4 out of 5 for construction and durability.
Looks-wise, these Titan Economy Plates feature a standard black base with raised white lettering. For a few dollars more, though, you can opt for color-coded bumper plates. We give the aesthetics a 4.5 out of 5 since there is more variety with these budget-friendly plates than other offerings we’ve seen.
Titan claims the plates are also designed with a very low bounce, which can help control the weight and minimize noise when dropping the barbell. “Titan doesn’t list the actual Durometer rating, though, so take the ‘low bounce’ marketing with a grain of salt,” Coop said to me. He adds, “If Titan’s reputation speaks to these plates, though, you can expect a low-bounce experience.”
In recent years, Titan Fitness has prioritized budget-friendly equipment without sacrificing quality, releasing competitively-priced fitness equipment like the Economy Bumper Plates.
Coop Mitchell, Garage Gym Reviews founder and expert product tester
Alternatives
Of the weight plates on this best-of list, Titan Economy Bumper Plates have some of the largest weight tolerances; weights can be up to 3% off in either direction of the declared weight. Most bumper plates advertise a 1% tolerance, so we rate the Economy Plates at 3 out of 5 for the category.
Along with the weight tolerance, Titan Fitness is somewhat limited in its weight options for purchase, which we rate at 3.5 out of 5. For one, the 10s, 15s, and 25s are sold in pairs, but plates 35 pounds and heavier are sold individually. Also, there’s only one set available for purchase, and it’s not a full set, either. It’s missing 15- and 55-pound plates (also 100-pound plates, but I wouldn’t expect those in a full set).
For a bit more variety of weight sets and options, check out the Rogue Echo Bumper Plates, which are sold in pairs or bundled sets.
Testing Breakdown
Although the weight options are limited, Titan Economy Plates still have decent value. Here’s a breakdown of their score.
Vs. The Average
At just over $2 per pound, on average, the Titan Economy Bumper Plates are some of the least expensive items on our list, although they will take up a bit more space on your barbell.
| Titan Economy Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $2.09 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55, 100 | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm (~17.7”) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 74 mm (2.91”) | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | Not disclosed | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±3% | ±1% |
| Material | Steel core in rubber coating, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
Best Olympic Bumper Plates: Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
Whether you enjoy lifting for fun or intend to compete, these bumpers will help you reach your goals! All weights are the same diameter, giving you a consistent feel with each rep. The plates are also specifically designed to be no wider than 3.15 inches so that you can fit more plates on with each lift.
What our tester says:
“You can stack plenty on a barbell sleeve and still have room for collars—a major perk when loading up for heavy deadlifts.”
At a Glance
- Bumper plates with a thinner profile than the average
- Pricier cost per pound than the standard
- Average 1% weight tolerance
- Standard warranty of 1 year (90 days for 10s and 15s)
The last thing you want as you drop a bar from a strong clean and jerk is for the plates to bounce wildly. That’s why we recommend the Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumper Plates for anyone who’s looking to lift some heavy weight without the heavy bounce.
“I found during my testing that the plates greatly reduced any bounce, but they were also quieter and much gentler on your home gym flooring,” GGR product tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, told me. With a Durometer rating between 85 and 88, he rated the bumper plates at 5 out of 5 for their bounce.
Bounce: 5/5
Design & Ergonomics: 5/5
Value: 3.5/5
Why We Like Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumper Plates
These plates from Bells of Steel look sharp and perform well, earning them a 5 out of 5 for design and ergonomics. The rounded bumper plates’ thickness is thinner than most—2.8” for their 55-pound plate, whereas the average 55-pound bumper plate is over 3 inches wide. “You can stack plenty on a barbell sleeve and still have room for collars—a major perk when loading up for heavy deadlifts,” certified sports nutrition coach Ben Emminger told me.
Along with the thinner size, the black bumper plates are still color-coded with different-colored lettering for each weight that aligns with IWF standard colors.
These Bells of Steel plates also come with a guarantee that they’re within 1% of their stated weight, earning them a 4 out of 5 for weight tolerance.
The construction and durability earns a 4.5 out of 5, as well, using 100% virgin rubber and a stainless steel insert to protect the barbell. “The marketing of a ‘dead bounce’ proved to be factual when I trained with these bumpers and routinely dropped them from the top of a deadlift,” Ben adds.
I saw no scuffs or signs of wear and tear. I’d happily use these again in my own home gym.
Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, GGR editor
Alternatives
While we enjoy lifting with the Bells of Steel bumper plates, they are certainly some of the pricier options on this list. Averaging roughly $2.68 per pound, they are slightly more expensive than standard bumper options. Competition bumper plates are a bit more costly, but not much. We rate the value at 3.5 out of 5.
With the more expensive price, I’d expect to see a more robust warranty, but the protection coverage just meets the standard of one year, in addition to the 90 days for 10- and 15-pound bumpers. We still rate the customer experience at 4 out of 5, though, because the 30-day return policy includes used equipment (that’s shipped back in its original packaging).
For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Titan Fitness Economy Plates, which come in, on average, about $0.60 cheaper per pound.
Testing Breakdown
Aside from being a tad expensive, the Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumpers are well-built and a quality product, scoring highly in our testing.
Vs. The Average
Although it’s a pricier plate, the Dead Bounce Bumper Plates provide more weight options with the inclusion of a 55-pound plate, as well as being a thinner design, on average.
| Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $2.68 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm (~17.7”) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 2.4” | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | 88 (10 and 15 lbs), 85 (25, 35, 45, and 55 lbs) | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±1% | ±1% |
| Material | 100% virgin rubber, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
Read our Bells of Steel Weight Plate reviews for our thoughts on the company’s full lineup.
Best Value Bumper Plates: Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
At a Glance
- Color-coded bumper plates
- Higher price than the average
- Larger diameter than the average
- Standard warranty of 1 year
When setting up the ultimate home gym, many of our readers want to buy one complete set of bumper plates up front, and the Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates are the best choice for home gym owners looking for a high-value bundle.
We rate the value at 4.5 out of 5 given the multiple bundled packages available that essentially give you everything you need to start weight training. Major Fitness offers these plates in 35- and 45-pound pairs, as well as sets of 70, 140, 230, and 320 pounds spread across multiple bumper plates.
Construction & Durability: 4/5
Weight Options: 4.5/5
Design & Ergonomics: 3/5
Why We Like Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates
The Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates are constructed of durable rubber and color-coded, making them easy to find when searching for the proper weight. I asked our tester, who used them for several months in his home gym, how the plates held up and he said, “Even when not used atop rubberized gym flooring, they withstood my workouts filled with deadlifts, rows, and more.” He rated the construction and durability of the bumper plates at 4 out of 5.
He was surprised at how well they performed when he drop-tested them on rubber, too, rating them a 4 out of 5 for their bounce. “They had a pretty minimal bounce to them dropping from overhead, which I was honestly shocked by,” our product tester notes.
If you’re trying to start your bumper plate roster in one single order, this is the set we’d recommend—with options ranging from pairs to 320-pound sets, this will work for tons of needs.
These make a decent thud on the ground, but what you would expect from a normal bumper plate. They’re not the quietest plates, but they still have a low bounce and provide solid durability against multiple drops and workouts.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, GGR Everything lead reviewer
Alternatives
The biggest callout we have is the design, which gets a middle-of-the-road 3 out of 5. While the colors are nice and bright, the logo and text aren’t all that appealing, with a combination of serif and sans-serif text displayed on each bumper plate.
Our tester also found that his plates were very oily out of the packaging. “I had a problem with them being overly oily out of the box, and at the time when I owned them, I didn’t have a plate tree, so the oil started collecting dust and particles,” he told me. “It got disgusting quickly.”
For color-coded competition bumper plates that are IWF-approved, and extremely sleek in design, check out the Rogue KG Competition Bumper Plates.
Testing Breakdown
Although the design may not be the most appetizing for home gym users, Major Fitness’ bumper plates are great for weight options and provide a good value because of it. Here’s a look at how we rated the plates.
Vs. The Average
On average, Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates are a bit more expensive than the average bumper plate at about $2.75 per pound. It’s also important to note that the plates’ diameter is larger than the norm of 450 millimeters. The slight difference may only be noticed by experienced lifters, however.
| Major Fitness Low Bounce Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $2.75 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 25, 35, 45 | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 |
| Plate diameter | 17.87″ (453mm) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 3” | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | Not disclosed | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | Not disclosed | ±1% |
| Material | Rubber, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
Best Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates: PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
At a Glance
- Flecked bumper plates made of recycled rubber
- Cheaper price than the average
- Average amount of weight options available
- Above-average warranty
As a former gym owner, I’ve used crumb rubber a lot; it’s a cheaper alternative to virgin (brand-new) rubber and is made of recycled rubber, which is more environmentally friendly. However, it often doesn’t have the durability, dead bounce, or the aesthetics of bumper plates made with virgin rubber.
That said, PRx has come out with its own Crumb Rubber Plates composed of recycled materials. These look impressively sharp, as well, earning a 5 out of 5 for their flecked pattern. “I’m kind of obsessed with these bumpers,” Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, told me.
Construction & Durability: 4/5
Bounce: 3/5
Weight Options: 4.5/5
Why We Like PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates
Lindsay, also the lead reviewer of the YouTube channel Garage Gym Reviews Everything, told me the fun color-coded flecks within each bumper plate adds to the look and feel of the plates. “I really love the flecked colors in the weights,” she said. “This adds a lot of fun to your home gym lifts.”
Although crumb rubber has a reputation for being less durable than other plates, the PRx plates’ recycled rubber flecks are packed tightly, making for a more durable material and earning them a 4 out of 5 for durability.
The crumb rubber design also makes these bumper plates a less expensive option than average, although Lindsay let me know that they’re still expensive compared to other crumb rubber plates we’ve tried, rating the value at 3.5 out of 5. However, with the sleek design, these plates may be worth the slight price hike.
Even with crumb rubber, these plates are pretty solid and durable, so long as you don’t drop the thinner plates.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, GGR Everything lead reviewer
Alternatives
Although we’re recommending these plates, it must be said that crumb rubber plates are naturally bouncier than other bumper plates, so you’ll have to be OK with a moderate bounce. It may be suitable for people not dropping regularly, like those performing racked exercises such as back squats and bench press often found in bodybuilding or powerlifting programming.
RELATED: Best Weightlifting App
Additionally, PRx doesn’t recommend dropping the 10- or 15-pound versions of the Crumb Rubber Plates given that, since they’re so thin and flexible, the steel insert (which protects your barbell) may be damaged or loosened from the plate. In fact, dropping these plates voids the warranty, so keep that in mind.
Prefer bumper plates with a dead bounce? You might like the Bells of Steel Dead Bounce Bumper Plates.
Testing Breakdown
These are pretty durable crumb rubber bumper plates, but the lack of weight tolerances and Durometer ratings cut PRx’s score a little short. Here’s how they fared in our equipment testing methodology.
Vs. The Average
While cheaper than the average bumper plates, PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates are still pricier than typical crumb rubber options. We’d also like to see PRx disclose a few more specs on these bumper plates, like weight tolerance and Durometer rating.
| PRx Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $2.22 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 |
| Plate diameter | 17.75” | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | Not disclosed | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | Not disclosed | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | Not disclosed | ±1% |
| Material | Recycled crumb rubber | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 2 years (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
Best Rubber Bumper Plates: Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
The Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates are a good option for most home gym owners thanks to their durability and low bounce. They’re approved for use in the Army Combat Fitness Test and have a 1% weight tolerance. They may be slick when you first get them, but wiping them with a rag and gentle cleaner makes them easier to handle.
What our tester says:
“Having that harder rubber is a great feature and eliminates the need for cautious handling during workouts.”
At a Glance
- Black bumper plates with budget-friendly pricing
- Above-average bounce rating for 10- and 15-lb plates
- Above-average plate thickness
- Standard 1-year warranty (90 days for 10s and 15s)
If you want to go the rubber route, the Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates are our top pick because they are very durable. Take that word “MilSpec” in the title—what that means is these plates are made to the exact specifications for the U.S. Army Combat Fitness Test. Designed to handle plenty of drops, these are also the only outdoor-approved bumper plates, according to Fringe Sport, helping them earn a 4.5 out of 5 on construction and durability.
They also check the box for aesthetics. GGR founder Coop Mitchell told me, “The matte finish is great and looks higher quality than the typical gloss finish.”
Construction & Durability: 4.5/5
Value: 4.5/5
Design & Ergonomics: 3.5/5
Why We Like Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates
Fringe Sport takes precautions with the brand’s smaller, thinner bumper plates, using a harder higher-density virgin rubber surrounding the stainless steel insert. The Durometer rating—a score of the firmness of the rubber—clocks in at 90 for the 10- and 15-pound plates, which is a fantastic score for plates that need some resiliency when dropped.
“10s and 15s are typically the weakest plates in a bumper plate bundle,” Coop adds. He tested these MilSpec plates out and rated the bounce at 4.5 out of 5, accordingly. “Having that harder rubber is a great feature and eliminates the need for cautious handling during workouts,” he notes, but we recommend not dropping thinner plates, in general.
When it comes to pricing, it’ll depend which set or pairs of plates you purchase, but they average under $2 a pound, which makes them very affordable. As such, they get a 4.5 out of 5 when it comes to value. Also, Fringe Sport offers free shipping, which is an immediate win in our book when it comes to buying bumper plates. Shipping costs for weights can be hefty, so free shipping can save you quite a bit of money when ordering your bumpers.
I particularly like that the center hub is made of stainless steel and won’t easily rust your bar or pop out. Being designed specifically to meet the standards for the Army Combat Fitness Test should go to show how durable and high-quality they are, too.
Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews and expert product tester
Alternatives
While there’s a lot to appreciate when it comes to these MilSpec Bumper Plates, there are some small callouts. For one, when we opened our Fringe Sport plates, we noticed they were slick—greasy, even. “This is residue left over from the manufacturing process—a quick cleanse with a rag and cleaner will have your plates ready for training,” Coop explained to me. It’s common with new bumper plates, but these were particularly slick upon breaking out of the box.
Also, Fringe Sport offers a pretty solid 30-day return policy, as well as a 365-day return policy for unopened, unused products. However, Fringe Sport clarifies that you’re responsible for shipping costs on a return. As I’ve already stated, shipping costs for heavy bumper plates can get, well, costly.
Lastly, the Fringe Sport Bumper Plates are only available in black. There aren’t any discernible features either, outside of the raised lettering on the bumper plates. As such, they get a 3.5 out of 5 for their simple design.
If you’re looking for something different than black bumper plates, check out the Nike Grind Bumper Plates. These flecked bumper plates are made from recycled materials with specks of color throughout that can liven up your gym space.
Testing Breakdown
Despite their simple appearance, the Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates are durable and offered at a great price, resulting in pretty good value. Here’s how they performed in testing.
Vs. The Average
While these bumper plates are less expensive per pound than the average weight plate, it’s important to note that these plates are a bit thicker than the average, meaning stronger lifters and bodybuilders might not be able to fit their max sets on the barbell.
| Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $1.91 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55 lbs | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 lbs |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm (~17.7”) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 2.9” | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | 90 (10 and 15 lbs), 85 (25, 35, 45, and 55 lbs) | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±1% | ±1% |
| Material | Virgin rubber, stainless steel insert | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
For more, Read our full Fringe Sport MilSpec Bumper Plates review.
Best Competition Bumper Plates: Rogue KG Competition Bumper Plates
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
At a Glance
- Extremely durable bumpers made to competition specs
- Higher price than the average
- Above-average Durometer rating
- Tighter weight tolerances than the standard
If you’re a competitive strength athlete like me, it can be helpful to train with equipment similar to the weights and barbells you’ll encounter on the competition platform. Certified by the International Weightlifting Federation, these competition-grade bumper plates from Rogue Fitness are our top pick for the category.
The accuracy of Rogue Competition Plates is impressive; Rogue Fitness guarantees plates to be within 15 grams of the declared weight, earning them a 5 out of 5 for their weight tolerance.
Weight Tolerance: 5/5
Design & Ergonomics: 5/5
Value: 3.5/5
Why We Like Rogue Competition Bumper Plates
These bumpers are constructed from high-density virgin rubber with a solid, chrome-plated steel center hub, which is far less likely to loosen over time like smaller steel inserts do. They’re plenty durable, too, as I’ve seen through my experience with the plates over my weightlifting career. The disc holds up much better to the rigors of Olympic lifting, and I’ve yet to see one falter over thousands of reps and sets. I rate the durability at 4.75 out of 5.
RELATED: Equipment for Olympic Weightlifting
The color-coded bumpers are bright and vibrant—and they make reading the weight on the bar easy for anyone who’s a regular in the sport. USA Weightlifting coach and GGR expert Jacob Penner has these at his gym, and told me, “These keep their color really well. USA Weightlifting uses Rogue competition plates every year, and they’ve been used multiple times. The color is still really vibrant year after year.” The plates get a 5 out of 5 for their design.
I’ve weighed a handful of these plates before and am always surprised by how accurate they are.
Jacob Penner, USAW-L2, GGR expert contributor
Alternatives
As impressive as these plates are, I can’t recommend them for everyone; competition bumpers aren’t made for the masses, necessarily. I rate the value at 3.5 out of 5. Yes, they’re cool to have and a near necessity for strength athletes—particularly Olympic weightlifters—but not everyone needs competition-grade lifting gear.
If you can get by with a different set of bumpers, you’re likely going to save a decent amount of money, especially with the plates costing over $4 per pound, on average.
If you’re not a competitive weightlifter but still loyal to the Rogue brand, check out the more budget-minded Rogue Echo Bumper Plates.
Testing Breakdown
Rogue Competition Bumpers are high-quality plates for serious competitors, although the price may not be worth it to some folks. Here’s a breakdown of their overall score.
Vs. The Average
The most obvious difference with Rogue Fitness Competition Bumper Plates with other bumper plates, is the price, approaching double the price per pound against the average. However, these are high-quality bumpers with very little wiggle room in regards to weight tolerance, as well as an impressive five-year warranty.
| Rogue KG Competition Bumper Plates | Average Bumper Plates | |
| Average price per pound | $4.25 | $2.49 |
| Sold in sets? | Yes | Yes |
| Weight options | 10, 15, 20, 25 kg | 10, 15, 25, 35, 45 lbs |
| Plate diameter | 450 mm (~17.7”) | 450 mm (~17.7”) |
| Plate thickness (45 lbs) | 2.15” (20 kg) | 2.58” |
| Durometer rating | 94 | 88 |
| Weight tolerance | ±15 g | ±1% |
| Material | Rubber, chrome-plated steel hub | Rubber, stainless steel insert |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year (90 days for 10- and 15-lb plates) |
You can read more in our Rogue Competition Bumpers review.
Other Bumper Plates We Researched
It would be impossible to include every bumper plate on the market in our recommendations and still make them easily accessible. For this reason, here are some other plates that didn’t make our top rankings, although they’re worth an honorable mention:
- Rogue Fitness Hi-Temp Competition Training Plates: These are decent plates, but there are no 55-pound options, and crumb rubber is likely to chip more easily over time.
- REP Fitness Sport Bumper Plates: These black bumper plates with color-coded lettering from REP Fitness are solid and look sharp, but are only sold in pairs, not sets.
- Eleiko Sport Training Plates: This can be a great option for those that want premium Eleiko bumpers, but at a lower premium cost. If you’re going to spend this much, though, you might as well buy the brand’s IWF-approved competition plates.
- American Barbell Color Urethane Pro Series Plates: We’re a big fan of these plates. However, when comparing them to other urethane plates, they simply cost too much more to recommend over the others.
- DHS Competition Bumpers: Great bumpers for Olympic weightlifting, but at a high price. We’d like to see more reviews or spend more time with them than we have thus far.
- Nike Grind Bumper Plates: The recycled shoe rubber on the exterior of the Grind Bumper Plates makes for a freakin’ sweet look, and all of our product testers agree. However, these plates have more of a bounce than other picks on our list.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Bumper Plates
In order to gather the best bumper plates and make a truly comprehensive comparison between them, we first began as we do with all of our guides—by researching top brands for weight plates and bumpers across the internet. We researched well over 100 different bumper plates before narrowing down to the over 50 we’ve tested—with more trials in the future.
It should be said, however, that we prioritized Olympic weight plates with 2-inch holes over standard weight plates with 1-inch holes, as Olympic barbells and plates have fast become the more popular type of free weights in the home gym community.
With CrossFit coaches, certified personal trainers, and a resident Olympian in weightlifting on our team, we were able to put each of these bumper plates through the wringer. After plenty of deadlifts, split jerks, snatches, and drops, we rated and ranked the bumper plates based on various categories. Here’s a quick breakdown of features that we looked at.
Construction and Durability
To determine a score for a bumper plate’s construction and durability, we took a look at the materials and how the bumpers performed in use. You may think all bumper plates are made with rubber, but there are different types of rubber, as well as materials like heavy-duty urethane (which also tends to be a low-odor alternative).
After consistent dropping through multiple workouts, we checked the plates for any premature signs of wear and tear. A score of 4 out of 5 or more went to bumper plates made with durable materials that showed little to no signs of wear during our testing.
Weight Tolerance
How accurate to the listed weight are the plates? Most companies will display a weight tolerance, or a range that the weights may be off by, and we checked the accuracy in our testing, as well. A score of 3 out of 5 was given to weight tolerances within 3% of the claimed weight, with smaller tolerances being awarded higher scores.
Bounce
To determine our score here, we looked at the Shore A Durometer rating (when available). This rating, which goes up to 100, demonstrates the firmness of the rubber used; a higher rating means harder rubber, and less bounce.
Not every bumper plate has a Durometer rating listed, however, so we also just performed some good-ole-fashioned barbell dropping to determine how low or dead of a bounce a plate exhibited. A minimal, dead bounce is ideal, as it’s a much more controlled drop, saving your gym flooring as well as being a quieter bounce, too. Top scores went to bumper plates with a low, dead bounce, with a Durometer rating of 88 or higher.
RELATED: Best Soundproof Exercise Mats
Design and Ergonomics
For this category, we took a look at, well, the look and feel of these bumper plates, notably how easy they were to grip from the floor. While not every bumper plate is color-coded, we made sure that weight plates were accurately color-coded according to IWF standards:
- 55-lb plate (25 kg): red
- 45-lb plate (20 kg): blue
- 35-lb plate (25 kg): yellow
- 25-lb plate (10 kg): green
- 10- or 15-lb plate (5 or 7.5 kg): varies
A score of 4 out of 5 went to a sharp-looking bumper plate with lettering that’s easy to read, as well as ergonomic silhouettes with rounded edges or cut-out handles for improved grip and control.
Weight Options
Here, we looked at the weights that were available, as well as the optionality for purchasing bumper plates. Many of these bumper plates can be bought in sets; the more set options, the better. Top scores went to bumper plates that had a broad range of plate options, as well as an abundance of sets that could be purchased.
Value
The cost of bumper plates can vary, especially depending on the materials and styles used. Typically, rubber plates are cheaper than urethane plates, but competition-style bumpers are more expensive than your standard bumper plate with a stainless steel insert. Bumper plates usually average out to a little over $2 per pound, with competition plates reaching $4 per pound or more.
RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment
In determining the value of a bumper plate, we factored in the price with the design and durability of the bumper plates. A 3-out-of-5 score referenced a bumper plate that was priced fairly, but didn’t do much to stand out from the rest of the market. Top scores, however, were reserved for plates that were competitively priced or standouts in terms of added features.
Customer Experience
This is a look at how easy it is to contact customer service, as well as the policies of the company—warranties, financing, and returns, namely. The standard warranty for most bumper plates is a year or more, with thinner 10- or 15-pound bumper plates having a smaller timeline—usually 90 days. Top scores go to bumper plates whose company provides financing options, fair return policies, good multi-year warranties, and who are quick to respond to questions.
Customer Reviews
We like to see what other people are thinking about these plates and other fitness equipment as we review them, so this is just a reflection of what customers are saying, either from the company website, or from other sites with reviews, like Amazon or Trustpilot.
Benefits of Bumper Plates in Your Home Gym
Home gym owners are, in all honesty, the ideal candidates for bumper plates. All of the benefits previously stated apply directly to those with garage gyms, and I’d say they might be even more relevant for owners of commercial gyms or CrossFit affiliates.
I asked exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., R.D., about how important strength training can be to your training regimen, and he responded, “Strength training helps in burning fat and managing weight by building muscle. Because muscle is a metabolically active organ, building muscle increases your resting metabolic rate, which means you burn more calories even when at rest.”
Along with the benefits that free weight training can bring to your workouts, here are some major reasons bumper plates can be a big help to home gyms over metal weight plates.
A Free Weight Option
When we talk about how bumper plates can impact your training, we are usually talking about resistance training—in particular, free weight training. The major difference between free weights and isolation training from machines, like a Smith machine, is that more muscles are activated in the movement1.
In a barbell squat, for example, you’re recruiting more than your legs; your abdominals, obliques, upper and lower back are all being used, as well as small stabilizer muscles that wouldn’t be used in isolation training.
Exercise physiologist Chris Mohr adds, “Compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups help build overall strength and also mimic the movements we use in daily activities, like lifting groceries or climbing stairs. These can help improve balance and coordination.”
RELATED: Smith Machine Vs. Free Weights
Along with that, weighted exercise can also improve joint mobility and pain relief. Chris continues, “Using weights during exercises can strengthen the muscles around the joints, providing better support and reducing stress on the joints themselves. This can help decrease the risk of injuries and joint-related problems like arthritis.”
And before you ask, many lifters will say that bumper plates can give more oscillation to the bar due to the plates being wider out on the barbell, making weights feel lighter and kind of like you’re “cheating” a rep. However, a 2024 study2 showed no significant difference between bumper plates and metal weight plates while performing bench presses. Bumper platers have plenty of versatility and benefits, but won’t make you lift more.
Another note: Chris adds to progress slowly and learn the proper form with free weight exercises first. “It’s smart for beginners to start with lighter weights and focus on mastering the correct form; a weight that allows you to do 12 to 15 repetitions of an exercise while still being challenged is a good starting point,” he says. “As your strength improves, you can gradually increase the weight safely, as added resistance will offer bigger benefits.”
A Quieter Option
Without a doubt, bumper plates, when compared to cast iron plates, are vastly quieter. Think about it. Instead of uncoated iron being dropped on the ground, which makes a loud, shrill sound that continues to reverberate, virgin rubber or urethane compresses, leaving a much quieter thud.
This is a very significant difference, as any home gym owner with neighbors or any commercial gym owner with a landlord who likes to “pop in” to the gym at random times can attest. The benefit of a home gym is that it’s always open, so limiting yourself to only working out when people are awake because you’ll wake them up with your weight plates defeats the purpose.
The decibel level of bumper plates being dropped can also be mitigated further by the use of rubber matting, such as horse stall mats, which we often recommend.
RELATED: Best Horse Stall Mats for Home Gyms
A Safer Option
Have you ever dropped a 45-pound iron plate on your foot? “I have, and a majority of the time it leads to broken bones,” Coop tells me. He continues, “More common than broken bones are cracked concrete, a disturbed foundation, and damaged barbells.” Because iron plates have no give upon impact, they can cause havoc in your garage gym, damaging your floor and other equipment.
On the other hand, bumper plates compress when dropped, therefore absorbing some of the blow, and far less damage is done. If they land on you, they won’t hurt nearly as much as steel—although I’d still try to avoid your foot.
Additionally, if bumper plates rattle on your Olympic barbell sleeve after dropping a barbell from overhead, bumper plates are less likely to scratch or deform your bar like cast iron can potentially do.
Most importantly, outside of your safety, of course, is the fact that bumper plates won’t hurt the foundation of your much more expensive home. If you’re going to lift at home, then you should have bumpers.
A More Versatile Option
Thanks to the quieter and safer nature of rubber in comparison to its older brother, iron, bumper plates allow for greater workout versatility. With metal plates, you simply can’t drop the weight from overhead unless you don’t mind breaking things. You shouldn’t even drop them from hip height (although many do).
On the other hand, bumper plates can be dropped from just about any height without fear. This means suddenly you can overhead press, clean and jerk, snatch, deadlift, and perform other barbell exercises and movements without worrying about lowering the barbell in a slow, deliberate manner—although you should still control a bar and plates while you’re dropping them.
A home gym also has a finite floor plan. This means limited space for both equipment and room for movements that use the equipment. To maximize your space, versatile and functional equipment is ideal, and the best bumper plates we recommend fit that bill more so than metal weights. You can simply do more.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Standard Bumper Plates vs Competition Bumper Plates
There are two types of bumper plates currently on the market. The first doesn’t really have a specific name, so we’ll just call them “standard bumper plates” (sounds pretty riveting, doesn’t it?) and the other type is “competition bumper plates.”
Standard Bumper Plates
Standard bumper plates are definitely more common. These are often black, although many companies have started to make colorized versions. Standard bumper plates use a stainless steel insert instead of a center hub. They’re also wider than competition plates, and therefore don’t allow you to fit as much weight on the bar. Bumpers in this category are usually cheaper, but they’re also more likely to warp or “taco” due misuse or extended wear and tear.
Competition Bumper Plates
Competition bumper plates mimic plates used in Olympic weightlifting meets and are often approved by the International Weightlifting Federation. They utilize a steel hub disc that is often in two sections, then bolted together to secure the rubber. This design makes for a thinner plate and means more weight can fit on the barbell sleeve.
These plates most often are in different colors and are also the more expensive option. Although competition bumper plates often have a more dead bounce than black bumper plates, that isn’t always the case. It largely depends on the Shore A Durometer rating of the plates.
Which Is Right For You?
For most people, we recommend standard or black bumper plates. Most trainees won’t lift more than what is permitted by these plates’ widths, and if using them for deadlifts or squats, it’s easy to add some cast iron plates on the end to meet whatever weight that is needed.
Competition bumper plates certainly have their place, though. If you want plates that should last the rest of your life, like the aesthetic of the profiles, or need the ability to load the barbell heavy, then we suggest competition plates. This is also a bumper plate to consider if you’re actively competing in a strength sport like Olympic lifting or powerlifting.
“It’s what I use in my garage gym,” Coop says, “But then again, I also have a 10-foot tall squat rack and 30 barbells, so I wouldn’t say I’m your ‘typical’ home gym owner.”
Hi-Temp and Other Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates
Hi-temp bumper plates, at one point, were some of the most popular bumper plates on the market, lining the walls of CrossFit boxes and high-traffic, functional-focused commercial gyms. However, we find ourselves recommending them less and less just because there are other great options available.
I wouldn’t say this about every crumb rubber plate I’ve come across, but these plates are less durable, and the rubber around the steel insert usually deteriorates, making the insert fall out over time. Additionally, they’re some of the widest plates available, meaning you won’t fit a lot of weight on your barbell, and they can sometimes be more expensive than other, more durable options.
If you’re running a high-traffic CrossFit affiliate, I could see use cases for hi-temps, however, there are simply too many other options available these days that have a lower bounce, keep a standard diameter, and provide better value.
What to Look for in Bumper Plates
Still on the fence about which bumper plates to get? Here are a few factors to consider before making that purchase.
Materials
The vast majority of bumper plates are made with a type of rubber with a stainless steel insert in the center to help protect the barbell. However, there is a bit more variety than you may realize.
Most rubber is either virgin rubber—fresh, brand-new rubber—or crumb rubber—made from recycled rubber. In general, crumb rubber is cheaper but less durable than virgin rubber. Beyond that, urethane bumper plates have gained popularity, as well, which is a far more durable (yet more expensive) material.
Make sure to choose a compound that works for your needs. If you’re anticipating a lot of drops with these plates, you may want to opt for a more durable material.
Bounce
Less bounce is generally the better option with bumper plates, but these plates can also be a pricier option. Most bumper plates have Durometer ratings (based on the firmness of the rubber) in the 60s to the 80s, with some pushing 90 or more. Typically, a Durometer rating of 85 or more will provide a low, dead bounce, which will help protect your home gym flooring as well as the weights themselves.
Weight Tolerance
Most companies display a weight tolerance—an estimate of how close or far a weight plate may be from the weight declared on the bumper plate. Most plates are within 1% of the indicated weight, but competitive athletes may want more accurate options to mimic meet day metrics. Also, home gym owners might be OK with a cheaper option with a greater weight tolerance—although I wouldn’t recommend going past 3% of the declared weight.
Price Per Pound
Bumper plates tend to be around $2 or $2.50 per pound. Highly durable competition bumpers will be more expensive, while less durable crumb rubber can be less expensive. Buying weights in a set instead of pairs can also save you money on the cost per pound. Consider your budget and fitness needs to decide which is the more valuable aspect of the bumper plates—durability or price.
FAQs About the Best Bumper Plates
What is the best brand of bumper plates?
The ideal bumper plates can differ from person to person based on their fitness goals, needs, budget, and style. However, we recommend Fringe Sport Black Bumper Plates for most people, as they’re affordable, very durable, and can be purchased in pairs and sets.
Are competition bumper plates worth it?
Competition bumper plates, which are more durable than your standard bumper plates, are also more expensive. Their tighter weight tolerance and heightened durability may not be worth it to the average garage gym user, but for some folks, they may be the better option.
For example, competitive strength athletes may appreciate the more accurate weights. Also, some home gym owners may simply want the higher-quality plates for their aesthetic, especially with their bright color-coding.
What is the difference between crumb and virgin rubber bumper plates?
Crumb rubber bumper plates, which are made from recycled rubber, are typically a cheaper alternative to those made with virgin rubber—or brand-new rubber. However, crumb rubber is also often less durable than virgin rubber, so each has their pros and cons.
References
- Schwanbeck, S., Chilibeck, P. D., & Binsted, G. (2009). A comparison of free weight squat to Smith machine squat using electromyography. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 23(9), 2588–2591. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181b1b181
- Fiedler, M. J., Triplett, N. T., Hamilton, K. C., Needle, A. R., & van Werkhoven, H. (2024). The Effect of Different Weight Plate Widths (Bumper vs. Standard) on the Biomechanics of the Bench Press. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 38(4), e143–e149. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000004679
