Barbell Bearings vs. Bushings: What’s the Difference?
When choosing a barbell, one of the key decisions you'll make is whether to go for a bar with bearings or bushings. Each has its advantages depending on your training style and preferences.
Bearings:
Bearings are typically found in high-performance Olympic lifting bars. They allow the sleeves of the barbell to rotate smoothly and quickly, making them ideal for dynamic movements like snatches and clean & jerks. This rapid rotation reduces the strain on your wrists and shoulders during explosive lifts, giving you more control and precision.
Benefits of Bearings:
- Faster, smoother sleeve rotation
- Ideal for Olympic weightlifting
- Reduces wrist and shoulder strain
Bushings:
Bushings, on the other hand, are designed for general strength training and powerlifting. They are less expensive and offer a slower, more controlled rotation. This makes them perfect for exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, where smooth sleeve rotation is less critical.
Benefits of Bushings:
- More affordable
- Slower, more controlled rotation
- Great for general strength training
When purchasing the Fringe Sport Wonder Bar you have the option to choose between the two.
Barbell Finishes: Cerakote, Hard Chrome, Stainless Steel, & Black Zinc
Now, let’s talk about barbell finishes. The finish on your barbell not only affects its appearance but also its durability, rust resistance, and feel in your hands.
1. Cerakote:
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance and a wide variety of color options. Originally used in firearms, Cerakote offers a good grip and doesn't get as slippery as chrome finishes. It’s perfect if you want a durable barbell with a custom look. The Bare Steel Equipment Iron Skull Power Bar, Bare Steel Equipment Blue Collar Barbell, Fringe Sport 20 Kg Midas Revenge Bar, and Fringe Sport 20kg Olive Drab Barbell are all great, if you are looking for a cerakote barbell.
Benefits:
- Superior rust resistance
- Wide range of color options
- Good grip even in sweaty conditions
2. Hard Chrome:
Hard chrome is a classic finish that gives barbells a sleek, shiny appearance. It’s highly resistant to rust and scratches, making it a popular choice for commercial gyms. However, some lifters find that hard chrome bars can get slippery, especially during high-rep sets. The Fringe Sport 20kg Men's Olympic Weightlifting Barbell, Apollo Athletics Olympic 86" Hard Chrome Barbell, Apollo Athletics Hard-Chromed Barbell and Biggins Iron 86" Olympic Barbell are all good choices for a hard chrome barbell.
Benefits:
- Scratch-resistant
- Corrosion-resistant
- Polished, professional look
3. Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel barbells don’t need any coating because the material itself is highly rust-resistant. Many lifters love stainless steel bars because they offer the best "natural" grip, providing a raw feel with no coating to interfere. Stainless steel is also incredibly durable but tends to be pricier. The Fringe Sport 20kg Stainless Steel Wonder Bar is a great choice if you are interested in a stainless steel barbell.
Benefits:
- No coating needed
- Excellent rust resistance
- Best natural grip feel
4. Black Zinc:
Black zinc offers a matte, sleek finish and good corrosion resistance. However, its grip can wear down faster than other finishes, and it may show signs of wear over time. The Apollo Athletics Olympic 86" Black Zinc Barbell, Apollo Athletics Black Zinc Barbell, and Bare Steel Equipment Olympic Barbell are great choices with a black zinc finish.
Benefits:
- Corrosion-resistant
- Sleek, modern look
- Good grip, though it may wear over time
For Olympic lifting, a barbell with bearings provides smoother rotation, while bushings are better for controlled, heavy lifts. In terms of finishes, Cerakote and stainless steel offer excellent rust resistance, while hard chrome and black zinc provide a polished appearance with durable protection. Choose the right combination of barbell features to fit your lifting needs!
