7 Best Bumper Plates in 2023 (Ranked and Reviewed)

Bumper plates are an essential piece of equipment for any weightlifting enthusiast or athlete. They allow for safe and efficient barbell training, protecting both the bar and the floor from damage.

But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which bumper plates are the best for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 7 bumper plates available in 2023.

From budget-friendly options to high-end professional quality, we’ve got you covered.

So if you’re ready to upgrade your home gym or outfit your commercial facility, read on to discover the best bumper plates on the market.

What are the Best Bumper Plates of 2023?

Here is the list of my top 7 best bumper plates for 2023:

REP FITNESS Bumper Plates

The REP FITNESS Black Bumper Plates are an excellent choice for home gym training. These rubber polymer plates are designed to withstand over 15,000 drops, making them a durable option for a variety of workouts such as powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and HIIT style workouts. They are also adaptable enough to be used for deficit or elevated movements.

In terms of construction, the REP FITNESS Black Bumper Plates have steel inserts with hooks moulded into the plate and low-bounce rubber, which contributes to their longevity. The 10 pound plates are extra thick to increase durability, while the 45 pound plates are thinner than most, allowing you to fit up to 515 pounds on the bar.

One of the most significant advantages of these bumper plates is their ability to protect your floor and barbell while also dampening the noise of lifting and dropping weights. They are made of high-quality rubber, which helps to reduce odour and bounce.

Overall, the REP FITNESS Black Bumper Plates are a solid choice for home gym training, providing durability, versatility, and equipment protection. While there have been a few complaints about the quality of the steel inserts, the majority of customers have had a positive experience with these bumper plates.

ROGUE ECHO BUMPER PLATES V2

The Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are a favourite both my and professional trainers. These plates are made of high-quality virgin rubber and stainless steel inserts, making them both durable and long-lasting.

One of the most notable features of the Echo Bumpers is their weight accuracy. These plates are within 1% of their target weight, so you can be confident that the weight shown on the plate is the weight you’ll be lifting. This is especially important if you’re attempting to meet specific strength goals or following a strict training regimen.

Aside from their accuracy, the Echo Bumpers have few surface imperfections, giving them a clean and professional appearance. These plates are also 450MM in diameter, which is the Olympic weightlifting standard. As a result, they will fit perfectly on any Olympic barbell.

One advantage of using bumper plates is that they make less noise when dropped. Because the Echo Bumpers have a dead bounce, they won’t make much noise when they hit the ground. This is especially useful if you live in an apartment or have neighbours who are bothered by loud noises.

One potential problem of the Echo Bumper Plates is that some customers have reported receiving plates with minor cracks or flaws in the rubber. While this appears to be a rare occurrence, it’s worth noting if you’re thinking about purchasing these plates.

Overall, the Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are a reliable and cost-effective option for anyone looking to add bumper plates to their home gym or training facility. They are long-lasting, precise, and have a powerlifting style appearance.

Titan LB Color

Titan LB Color Urethane Bumper Plates are an excellent choice for Olympic weightlifting and other strength training exercises. These plates are available in pairs of 10-pound increments and a variety of sizes, including 25, 35, 45, and 55-pound. There is also the option of purchasing the entire set of 340 pounds.

It features low and controlled bounce performance. This is advantageous in weightlifting because it allows for a consistent dead blow during lifts and reduces the risk of the bar bouncing out of control. These plates’ low bounce is achieved through their moulding process, which employs urethane to provide enough flexibility to deliver a controlled bounce.

The steel-lined centre hole is another important feature of these plates. This hole is made to fit Olympic-sized barbells and keep its shape between uses. The steel lining reinforces the hole and keeps it from deforming over time, which can be a problem with some bumper plates.

They are made of rubber over a steel core and are a dependable choice for anyone serious about Olympic lifting. The rubber outer layer protects the plates from wear and tear, and the steel core adds support and stability. This material combination allows the plates to withstand heavy loads while maintaining their shape over time.

Eleiko IWF Bumper Plates

The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Plate is an excellent option for Olympic weightlifting and other strength training exercises. These plates are made with proprietary SBR rubber, which allows Eleiko to manufacture a well-balanced and exceptionally durable plate with minimal imperfections and tolerances within the smallest of margins.

The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Plate’s quality and durability are two of its most notable features. From the proprietary SBR rubber to the zinced steel hubs and meticulous manufacturing processes, these plates are built to last for years and come with a 5-year warranty. They are also rigorously tested to ensure that they meet the exacting standards of the company.

When smaller weight increments are required, the Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Plate can be used in conjunction with the company’s rubber coated change plates. These small plates, which range in weight from.5 kg to 5 kg and have an Olympic colour scheme, are certified and calibrated for record-breaking lifts. They also have a lipped edge for added security and ease of handling.

The Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Plate has distinct details that make it simple to identify weights and handle the plates safely. The weights are color-coded according to the Olympic palette and have prominent white raised lettering, as well as a lipped edge around the circumference of the disc to ensure a secure hold.

AMGYM LB Bumper Plates

The AMGYM LB Bumper Plates are an excellent choice for crossfit training. This set includes two 15-pound plates and two 35-pound plates, and it is designed to fit all Olympic barbells with 2-inch sleeves.

The durability of the AMGYM LB Bumper Plates is one of their most notable characteristics. These plates are made of 100% high-density natural rubber, which is a strong and long-lasting material that can withstand repeated drops. The low-bounce design of these plates also helps to protect any type of floor as well as your barbells. This is important for those who are concerned about the wear and tear on their home gym equipment and flooring, as bumper plates can be dropped from a significant height during certain exercises.

The AMGYM LB Bumper Plates feature a stainless steel “hooked” insert that remains firmly seated in the centre of the plate. This keeps the plates balanced during lifts, preventing them from wobbling or shifting on the barbell. This is an important consideration when selecting bumper plates, as an unbalanced plate can affect your form and the overall effectiveness of your workouts.

The AMGYM LB Bumper Plates are suitable for a variety of workouts due to their weight range. They are available in six weights: 10LB, 15LB, 25LB, 35LB, 45LB, and 55LB. This enables you to select the appropriate weight for your specific strength training and weightlifting requirements.

Furthermore, the AMGYM LB Bumper Plates come with a 3-year warranty, which can provide peace of mind for those who are concerned about the longevity of their gym equipment.

XMark Bumper Plates

This is probably the best rubber bumper plates I found through my research. They are made of high-density rubber, making them tough and durable enough to withstand the impact of being dropped during lifts like the snatch or clean and jerk. The plates come in a 160-pound set with two each of 10 lb, 25 lb, and 45 lb plates.

They have precision tooled and polished commercial stainless-steel inserts. These inserts allow the plates to slide freely on the bar during workouts, making it easier to load and unload weights. The inserts are also 2-inch in diameter, which is standard for Olympic bars. This means that these bumper plates will work with any Olympic bar that has a 2-inch sleeve.

The smell of the rubber has been mentioned by some customers as a complaint about these bumper plates. While this is a common issue with any rubber product, the smell is generally expected to fade over time. Some customers have also reported that their plates arrived damaged or with defective inserts. It is worth noting, however, that the manufacturer, XMark, provides a warranty for these plates. The plates are warranted for three years from the original date of purchase for residential use, and for one year for commercial use.

The XMark Bumper Plates are made for Olympic weightlifting exercises like the snatch and clean and jerk.

Vulcan Alpha Bumper Plates

The Vulcan Alpha Bumper Plates V2.0 Pairs are a pair of weights designed specifically for Olympic weightlifting exercises. They are made of rubber and are intended to be a more secure and quieter alternative to traditional recycled rubber plates.

One of these bumper plates’ standout features is their low dead blow bounce on any surface. This means that they will bounce less when dropped from a height than traditional recycled rubber plates, which can bounce dangerously high or “skip” away from the user.

This makes them more safe to use because there is less chance of the plates bouncing out of control or colliding with someone nearby.

In addition to their low dead blow bounce, the Alpha Bumper Plates make about 25% less noise when dropped from a height of 9 feet. Based on decibel metre testing, this makes these plates a good choice for gyms with multiple athletes training at the same time, or for those concerned about disturbing neighbours.

Due to the high noise levels associated with dropping bumper plates throughout a training session, hearing damage and loss have become issues for weightlifting coaches and trainers, so noise reduction can be beneficial in these situations.

The Vulcan Alpha Bumper Plates V2.0 Pairs also have a lower odour when compared to crumb rubber or recycled rubber bumper plates. This is a useful feature for those who are sensitive to strong odours or prefer to train in a cleaner environment. In addition, these plates have a lower profile than traditional crumb rubber or recycled rubber bumper plates, making them easier to grip and handle.

The Vulcan Alpha Bumper Plates V2.0 Pairs are free of PAHS and Phthalates, which are chemicals that have been linked to negative health and environmental effects.

Vulcan also provides a warranty for these plates, with different lengths of coverage based on the plate’s weight. The 55 lb, 45 lb, and 35 lb plates, for example, are covered for 48 months, while the 25 lb plates are covered for 36 months. The 15 lb and 10 lb plates have a one-year warranty. It is important to note that cosmetic damage is not covered by the warranty.

Overall, this appears to be a good choice for those looking super quiet option for their apartment.

Factors to Consider When Buying Best Bumper Plates

Weight options

The available weights of bumper plates are referred to as weight options. These weights typically range from 2.5 to 45 pounds, and in some cases, even more. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider the weight options available, as you will want to have a variety of weights to use for different exercises and to progress in your weightlifting routine.

Plate diameter

For Olympic weightlifting, plate diameter refers to the size of the bumper plate, which is typically standardised to 450 mm. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider the plate diameter because you will want to ensure that the plates fit properly on your barbell and do not cause any damage to your equipment. Furthermore, depending on their weight, some bumper plates may have different thicknesses, so consider the overall size and compatibility with your weightlifting equipment.

Plate construction

The materials and methods used to make bumper plates are referred to as plate construction. Bumper plates are typically made of rubber, but they can also be made of urethane or recycled rubber. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider the plate construction because the material used can affect the plates’ durability, noise level, and overall performance.

Durability

The ability of the bumper plates to withstand heavy use and wear and tear over time is referred to as durability. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider their durability, as you will want to ensure that the plates can withstand the demands of your weightlifting routine and last for a long time. The quality of the materials used, the thickness of the plates, and the drop test ratings are all factors that can affect the durability of bumper plates.

Brand reputation

The overall reputation of the company that manufactures the bumper plates is referred to as brand reputation. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider the brand reputation, as you will want to select a company that is known for producing high-quality, dependable products. You can learn about the brand’s reputation by reading online reviews, visiting the company’s website, and asking other weightlifters or fitness professionals for recommendations.

Customer feedback

Customer feedback and ratings are provided by customers who have purchased and used the bumper plates. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider customer reviews, as these can provide valuable insight into the performance and quality of the plates. You can find customer reviews online, on the company’s website, or on social media pages. It is important to note that not all customer reviews are reliable or accurate, so reading a variety of reviews is a good way to get a well-rounded understanding of the product.

Compatibility

The ability of the bumper plates to fit and function properly on your barbell, racks, and other weightlifting equipment is referred to as compatibility. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider compatibility. You will want to ensure that the plates fit properly on your equipment and do not cause any damage or issues.

Noise

The amount of noise made by the bumper plates when used for weightlifting exercises is referred to as the noise level during use. When purchasing bumper plates, it is critical to consider the noise level because you may be sensitive to noise or will be using the plates in a shared space where noise may be an issue. The type of materials used, the thickness of the plates, and the weight of the plates are all factors that can affect the noise level of bumper plates. Some bumper plates, such as those made of urethane or recycled rubber, are specifically designed to be quieter in use, so it is a good idea to research and compare the noise levels of different bumper plates before making a purchase.

Budget and Price

Price and budget are important considerations when purchasing bumper plates due to the wide range of prices available for these weights. Some bumper plates are quite expensive, while others are more reasonably priced.

It’s critical to consider your budget and how much money you’re willing to spend on bumper plates.

It’s also worth noting that investing in higher-quality bumper plates may save you money in the long run because they require less replacement due to wear and tear.

On the other hand, if you want something inexpensive and long-lasting, iron plates are your best bet. When dropped, however, it can make a lot of noise and even damage the floor.

FAQs

What are bumper plates?

Bumper plates are a type of weight plate designed specifically for Olympic weightlifting and CrossFit workouts. They’re usually made of rubber or urethane and have a consistent diameter and thickness to allow for consistent, smooth movement on the barbell.

Bumper plates are intended to be dropped from above without causing damage to the floor or the plate itself. This is crucial in Olympic weightlifting, where the barbell is frequently dropped from overhead following a lift. Bumper plates are also used in other exercises like squats, deadlifts, and presses.

Should I Purchase Bumper Plates?

Bumper plates are a good choice for Olympic weightlifting and CrossFit workouts because they are durable, low-bounce, and easy to grip. Bumper plates, on the other hand, may not be the best choice for you if you are not interested in these types of workouts.

Are cheap bumper plates worth it?

Buying cheap bumper plates is generally not advised. While they may be less expensive in the beginning, they are frequently made of lower quality materials and may not last as long as more expensive options. As a result, they may need to be replaced more frequently, which can result in higher long-term costs.