9 Best EZ Curl Bars in 2024

If you have ever been in a gym, the one thing that you definitely noticed was a weight bar. You have seen people using the EZ curl bars while standing , sitting or doing exercises, and you might be thinking , “Is it the best curl bar?”.

Back in 1950, a guy named Lewis Dymek experienced pain in his wrists and elbows while doing curls with the regular straight bar. Then, Lewis Dymek teamed up with Andy Jackson to design and create the first curl bar to deal with the above-mentioned issues.

The curl bar was proven as a home run since it not only made biceps and triceps exercises with a bar safer and less strainful, but it also made them more efficient.

Our group of coaches, professional athletes, and certified experts has put 40 curl bars through rigorous testing to bring you the top 9 choices. The curl bars were critically evaluated on 6 key aspects, with our team spending over 600 on testing most of them.

In addition to our thorough testing, we’ve reviewed hundreds of online user reviews. We regularly update our recommendations, so your comments, experiences, and discussions are always welcome!

But what are EZ curl bars, and are they the best alternative? 

Today I will cover my top 9 choices for curl bars that you can buy and all their pros and cons. Also we will get into more details to answer every question that you might have about EZ curl bars, their benefits, and why you should get one for yourself if you are planning to do curls!

Top 9 EZ Curl Bars Reviewed

1. Synergee Commercial EZ Curl Olympic Bar – Top Pick
2. Rogue Curl Bar – Runner Up
3. Cap Barbell 47-Inch Standard Threaded Solid Easy Curl Bar – Budget Pick
4. Eleiko Curl Bar
5. Rep Curl Bar 
6. Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set
7. Marcy Olympic Hollow Bar Kit Chrome Curl Bar
8. Sunny Health & Fitness 47 in Threaded Chrome Curl Bar
9. XMark EZ Curl Bar

Product	Total	Steel Quality	Tensile Strength	Knurling	Crushing Resistance	Versatility	Value for Money
Synergee	57.5	10	9.5	10	9	9	10
Rogue	57	10	10	9	10	9	9
Cap	56	9.5	9	8.5	9	10	10
Eleiko	55.5	10	9	9.5	9.5	8.5	9
Rep	55	10	9.5	8	9	9.5	9
Yaheetech	55	8.5	8.5	9.5	8.5	10	10
Marcy	54	9	9	10	8	9.5	8.5
Sunny	53.5	9	9	9	9	8.5	9
XMark	53.5	9.5	9	8	9	8.5	9.5

1. Synergee Commercial EZ Curl Olympic Bar – Top Pick

My top “pick out” of the nine EZ curl bars is the Synergee Commercial Olympic bar.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless steel
• Weight: 19lb
• Length: 47.25’’
• Diameter: 2’’
• Shaft Length: 33’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 450lb
• Sleeve Length: 6.25’’
• Finish Type: Black Phosphate, Chrome, Red Cerakote

The Synergee EZ Curl Bar is an excellent piece of equipment. I’m delighted that I have decided to spend the additional money. The bar’s craftsmanship, thickness and design are all fantastic.

This Olympic EZ curl bar isn’t just your average equipment – it is the best Olympic curl bar on this list. The red cerakote-coated finish is the coolest “looking out” of most curl bars I’ve seen. The coolness factor can help you perform better during your workout. It is a definite eye-pleaser and attention magnet if that is what you’re looking for.

The bar weighs 19 pounds unloaded, so you can freely start working out as soon as you get it, even if you have no weight plates to add. The Synergee curl bar has 6.25-inch-long sleeves that can support Olympic weight plates. The max load capacity is 450 lb, which is, from my experience, more than enough for almost all situations.

Depending on the size of your weight plates, you might have issues adding the full 450 lb to the plate because you might run out of space.

6.25″ is enough, but you’ll have to be smart about it.

This EZ curl bar has a 28 mm shaft, which is the standard in today’s market. It is enough for comfortable holding the bar even when lifting heavy weights. The knurling, of course, allows for perfect gripping. The center and both ends of the bar have no knurling, so you’re getting the typical knurling areas, but the 1.2 mm diamond knurling allows for better grip while still not being too aggressive.

The angles on this curl bar are even more enhanced. They will offer even more stress relief for your wrist and elbows.

The bar is comfortable to hold and nicely balanced. For the price, this curl bar is unbeatable. 

Consider this choice if you want a good quality bar at a fair price. Bearings are smooth, weight is accurate and dimensions are comparable to much more costly bars. If it weren’t already obvious, I will definitely suggest this one. And I stand behind it with the certainty that this is the best Olympic EZ curl bar you can get for your money.

2. Rogue Curl Bar – Runner Up

Rogue came up as the runner-up. But it was close to become a winner.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless steel
• Weight: 30lb
• Length: 54.5’’
• Diameter: 1.96’’
• Shaft Length: 31.5’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 1260 lb
• Sleeve Length:10.5’’
• Finish Type: Bright Zinc, Cerakote

This bar is all about giving you that premium feeling. If you look at this as a premium curl bar, you are getting it for a bargain. I have bigger hands than the average person, and even I can easily handle the bar. 

The depth and location of the knurls, as well as the length and angle of the cambers, are all aspects of this bar that give the impression that it is better than other curl bars. It is comfortable ,safe and it almost never requires maintenance, it spins dependably, and the price is reasonable when considering what you receive in return.

This high-quality EZ curl bar doesn't come cheap. The bar is perfectly cambered and made of solid steel guarantees that will help you even during the most challenging lifting sessions. 

The best thing I would point out is its ability to handle obscene amounts of weight compared to most other bars. And if you are looking for something worthwhile, I recommend getting this one.

3. Cap Barbell 47-Inch Standard Threaded Solid Easy Curl Bar – Budget Pick

If you are on a budget or looking for an entry-level EZ curl bar, I recommend giving the CAP a closer look.

• Material (Steel Type): Solid Chromed Steel
• Weight: 10.5lb
• Length: 47.24’’
• Diameter:1’’
• Shaft Length: 31.5’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 200lb
• Sleeve Length: 7.5’’
• Finish Type: Black Powder Coat

The bar's package is a bit tight, so that the bar may get scratched during the delivery time. The only thing you still need to do during a high-intensity curl workout is to increase weights. 

This bar can support up to 200 lb of weight, and that amount is more than enough for most people. But the bar is heavy enough to be used without plates for smaller workouts. The black coating gives the bar a good look. 

The 47" length is standard for curl bars, and I find that length perfect.

My hands are a bit tough, but I could see some people struggling with sore palms during training with heavy weights. The knurling is a tad bit aggressive, but again, once you get used to it, it will definitely feel absolutely comfortable.

4. Eleiko Curl Bar

The Eleiko curl bar is my premium pick. If money is not an issue, this might be your choice!

• Material (Steel Type): Hard Chrome
• Weight: 26.46lb
• Length: 51.81’’
• Diameter: 1.97’’
• Shaft Length: 31.94’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 1102.31lb
• Sleeve Length: 9.06’’
• Finish Type: Black Phosphate

You'll feel more at ease pushing your boundaries during those low-rep sets. Moreover, you can sleep safe knowing that the Eleiko curl bar won't rust or bend. This ensures that you will get precisely what you paid for and what is advertised. 

The bar's got knurling on four spots. They cover almost every possible way while using the curl bar, so grip will never be an issue. The middle is not knurled.

Every time you use it, it will feel solid and premium. There's no squeaking or any drag in the spin. It feels exceptionally balanced and reliable all the time. Worth every cent if you ask me, but still – you can't ignore the price tag.

It is presently the most expensive curl bar. That implies that it must be perfect in all other areas to compete. This bar would be higher on my list if it weren't for the sky-high price.

5. Rep Curl Bar 

REP delivers a semi-premium EZ curl bar.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless Steel
• Weight: 30lb
• Length: 55’’
• Diameter: 2’’
• Shaft Length: 33.4’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 400lb
• Sleeve Length: 10’’
• Finish Type: Hard Chrome

The knurling length of this bar must be discussed since it may be a dealbreaker for you. 

It will be more comfortable if it covers a longer area. There are four knurled portions (each 70 mm/2.75 inch) and ten-inch sleeves. And for many this wouldn’t present an issue. However I have bigger hands and I found parts of my hands slipping a bit because they were out of the knurled area during various exercises. And considering this curl bar cost a bit more, I just feel that there should’ve been more knurling added.

It is not softened by coating and due to that stainless steel offers greater tactile feedback. That a great advantage.

Needle bearings have usually been reserved for high-end Olympic bars to prevent wrist strain, but this bar has needle bearings and bushings in each sleeve for an excellent bargain. The durable chrome finish is resistant to wear and tear, and the medium depth knurl allows you to sweat out while still maintaining a good grip. 

The REP EZ Curl Bar has a long lifespan, requires little maintenance, and is reasonably priced.

6. Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set

If you don’t have any weight plates and want to buy a curl bar, the Yaheetech set will be the best option for you.

• Material (Steel Type): Iron Bar, Plastic Weight Plates
• Weight: 10lb
• Length: 37’’
• Diameter: 1’’
• Shaft Length: 33’’
• Knurling:1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 300lb
• Sleeve Length: 6.25’’
• Finish Type: None

With this curl barbell, you’ll also get 4 x 5.5 lb , 2 x 11 lb weight plates and 2 start lock collars to keep the weights from falling off the bar during exercise. The 44 lb weight and the 10 lb bar are enough for most athletes.

This bar won’t impress you with its design or quality. It will give you a bare minimum for doing curls from the get-go. It is not that pretty, but it’s still efficient. If you don’t have a curl bar and looking to start as soon as possible without a hassle, this might be the best option that you could buy. 

It depends whether you already have weight plates and, of course, on the total weight you are looking to lift. It is pretty easy to exchange the weight plates between sets, but after 10-20 repetitions, you can feel the screw get loose. For me, it is not a issue because I tighten them and continue my workout. While a bit annoying, it is not a big deal considering the price point of the curl bar set.

7. Marcy Olympic Hollow Bar Kit Chrome Curl Bar

Marcys Olympic hollow bar kit is another great set to buy. With this one, you won’t get weighted plates, but you will get the EZ curl bar as well as 2 20’’ dumbbells handless and six clips to hold plates in place.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless steel (hollow curl bar)
• Weight: 6.5lb
• Length: 47’’
• Diameter: 2’’
• Shaft Length: 33’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 100lb (bar), 50lb (dumbbell)
• Sleeve Length: 6.25’’
• Finish Type: Chrome

Unfortunately, the curling bar will be hollow, which is great because it is very light. But that also means that you are extremely limited in how much weight you can load on the bar. 50 lb is enough for a beginners or low-intensity workouts, but if you want to go harder – you will need to get another bar.

The bar can easily be damaged because of the hollowness. Once the edges bend a bit, you’ll have difficulties putting the plates on. You might try bending it back, but as you can imagine, this can quickly become tiresome. Also some people reportedly received the bar already bent during the transportation.

The lock nuts can get loose quite often, but you can easily solve this issue by using two on each side.

If you ignore all these facts and consider that you can return it anytime with zero issues – you’re getting a good deal. With the shallow price point of this set, you will be satisfied . 

This is a good deal if you are getting into curling or weight lifting. The only thing that you will need with this set is weight plates because the bar is too light to do any mid or hard intensity workout.

8. Sunny Health & Fitness 47 in Threaded Chrome Curl Bar

Sunny Health & Fitness curl bar is a great option if you want to do curls but do not want to spend a lot of money.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless steel
• Weight: 11lb
• Length: 47’’
• Diameter: 1’’
• Shaft Length: 33’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 200lb
• Sleeve Length: 6.25’’
• Finish Type: Chrome

The bar is stainless steel made with a good knurling area so that you won’t have issues with a grip. The chrome finish will prevent corrosion damage.

It is an excellent option for home or office workouts. The only thing you will need is plates. Any old plates you might have will fit nicely on the bar.

The only disadvantage with this 1 inch curl bar is that the nut rings always get loose. I was tightening them every few repetitions, so if you consider that part of the workout – you’re golden.

Just remember to tighten them properly to prevent the plates from moving around. If you still find that troublesome, add a clamp to help hold the nut. That worked for me.

9. XMark EZ Curl Bar

Last but not least is the XMARK EZ stainless steel curl bar.

• Material (Steel Type): Stainless steel
• Weight: 22lb
• Length: 47.25’’
• Diameter: 2’’
• Shaft Length: 33’’
• Knurling: 1.2 mm Diamond knurl
• Weight Limit: 400lb
• Sleeve Length: 6.25’’
• Finish Type: Black Manganese Phosphate

This item is great for the price and quality policy: solid, good knurling, and loads of smooth spin.

The sleeves need to be longer to accommodate the 400-pound weight capacity promised. The 28mm grip handle is a tad bit bigger, which is excellent for more control. The aggressive deep knurling can be an issue if your hands are soft.

The XMARK Chisel EZ Curl Bar is perfect for upper body training. The robust steel bar has four needle bearings for a silent, smooth spin, while the black manganese phosphate-coated shaft guarantees toughness against nicks and scratches.

Thanks to the ergonomic angled grips which you will feel comfortable in your hands, you'll feel much less strain on your wrists after a long workout.

This is one of the finest EZ curl bars for individuals searching for a comfortable grip and a 400-pound weight capacity without spending a fortune.

What Is a Curl Bar?

A curl bar is a multi-angled specialty barbell that works your biceps and triceps while reducing stress on your elbows and wrists. The bar's slight 'W' form allows for several grip alternatives, making it a versatile one. A curl bar is an excellent tool for increasing bicep bulk and strength.

A curl bar is substantially shorter than a regular barbell, which generally rests about 7 feet in length, while the curl bar is roughly 4 feet.

The length of the curl bar keeps any heavy plates closer to you, making it simpler to perform the bicep curl exercise.

1. Curl Bar Weight

The curl bar is substantially lighter than a regular barbell, weighing anything from 18 to 25 pounds (8 to 11 kg). Knowing the weight of your curl bar might be beneficial when measuring your progress throughout training.

2. Curl Bar vs. Straight Bar

A curl bar's design allows you to isolate your biceps and triceps during a workout, enabling you to concentrate more on the specific muscle. The angled grips on the bar prevent your elbow, wrist, and shoulder from joint injury caused by the strain on the arms caused by raising the bars.

The curl bar is the best option if you want to focus on arm development. It has a number of features that allow you to train by using different movement patterns, such as overhead curls and triceps. 

Because the bar's slightly bent position on your hands allows for maximal bicep activation, a straight bar is more beneficial for growing upper body muscles. The curl bar does not strongly engage the upper body muscles, but it has a low injury risk rate because of the angles along the bar, making it safe to use.

The biggest drawback of utilizing the curl bar is that it can only be lifted in one motion-up and down, not left and right or forward and backward.

Curl Bar Types

There are generally two types of curl bars - standard and Olympic. You can also find spinning and non-spinning ones. 

1. Standard EZ Curl Bar

Standard EZ curl bars are typically 11 pounds (5 kilograms), 47 inches long, and 1 inch in diameter. 

2. Olympic EZ Curl Bar

Olympic EZ curl bars may weigh up to 20 pounds, have a length of up to 52 inches, and 2 inches diameter

Benefits of Using Curl Bars

✅ Better Angle

The curl bar features an angled grip that relieves strain on your wrists, elbows and shoulders, resulting in a more pleasant exercise.

✅ Ease of Use

Due to the light weight of curl bars they are perfect for beginners.

✅ More Possibilities

However, if you are more experienced, they give a wide range of opportunities for lifting techniques that wouldn’t be possible with a straight bar.

✅ Compactness

A curl bar is small enough to be carried around without breaking something or injuring someone. Because of this, they are perfectly suitable for home workouts since it takes up little room and is suitable for storage.

✅ Muscle Isolation

The angles on the EZ curl bar let you focus on particular portions of your biceps and triceps. It is also one of the best tools for building upper body mass.

What to Look For in Curl Bars?

1. Steel Quality

EZ Curl Bars are constructed of high-quality bent solid steel or hard chrome. The core of EZ curl bars is frequently knurled to aid with friction and grip when gripping it. It is designed to withstand even the most strenuous exercises.

2. Tensile Strength

The hard chrome option has a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, while the stainless steel option has a tensile strength of 200,000 PSI. Anything that exceeds 180,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) is considered a strong and long-lasting curl bar.

3. Knurling

The crosshatch design on the EZ curl bars shaft enhances friction between your hands and the bar, enhancing grip. The depth at which barbell knurling is carved into the steel and the design vary substantially depending on the manufacturer and product.

Depending on your body size, make sure that there is knurling where you would naturally hold the bar to ensure more manageable and more comfortable lifting and avoid slippage.

4. Spin

Curl bars are designed so that the weight can freely spin during a workout. This helps to reduce stress on your wrists and elbows while doing curls. 

If you find a non-spinning option, skip it since the whole point of an EZ curl bar is to make it easier on your body. A non-spinning version would make it harder without any added benefits.

5. Crushing Resistance

Always check the maximum weight of the EZ curl bar you want to buy that you will be able to handle without bending or hurting yourself . If you need to overload it, consider getting one that can handle the desired weight.

6. Versatility

If you invest in a curl bar, consider its size and weight. While it was designed to primarily target your biceps, triceps, and chest area, depending on the exercise performed, you still might want one that can give you more options in terms of what areas of your body you can use. 

If the bar is too long or too heavy, you might limit yourself to some exercises. The design of the curl bar will determine all the additional exercises it is optimal for, such as rows, extensions, squats, and more.

Also consider if the product you are looking at is a rackable curl bar. This might help you with storage, instead of leaving it on the floor.

7. Value For Money

Most EZ curl bars are made from stainless steel to last a long time. Depending on your body size and physique, you might be looking to lift heavier loads than the other person – in that case, narrow your list of curl bars to only those that can handle those weights. 

Make sure there is enough knurling to have a complete workout while having a grip. And finally, if you encounter a spinning and non-spinning EZ curl bar, I recommend the spinning version (but most already have spin).

Look at the things that are important to you. Perhaps the look and design of the bar are essential to you. Maybe the length of the bar is what is most crucial to you. And if you are simply looking for a cheap EZ curl bar. Once you know what you want, look at your budget and get the one that has the highest rating.

This way, you ensure you will get the most bang for your buck.

FAQ

What Are Curls?

The biceps muscles are located at the front of the upper arm, while the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles are located in the lower arm. Curls train these muscles.

Are Ez Curl Bars Worth It?

The fundamental difference between the straight bar and the EZ Bar is their weight and the hand posture that may be used for various activities. Consider your objectives while deciding which bar is best for you.

If you have wrist or elbow problems when doing bicep curls, the EZ curl bar will be more privileged to a straight bar.

Are Ez Bars Better for Curls?

An EZ curl bar is ideal for workouts targeting smaller muscle regions, such as the triceps and biceps. These muscles need less weight than chest and legs, which employ a straight bar to affect bigger muscles significantly.

So, if you are solely targeting your biceps and triceps muscles, an EZ bar may be a safer and more optimal choice than using a straight bar or hand weights.

Conclusion

EZ curl bars are very effective in developing biceps and bulking arms. If you’re looking to bulk or define those parts of your body – a EZ curl bar might be an excellent choice.

If you suffer discomfort when straining your wrist or elbows, definitely consult a doctor. But if you are given a green light, an EZ curl bar will be the best way to work out while administering the minimum stress on your wrists and elbows.

When considering your budget, consider whether you are getting weight plates with the bar as part of a set or just the bar. You also might be happy enough with just the bar, but if you plan on using weight plates in the future, think ahead.

SYNERGEE COMMERCIAL EZ CURL OLYMPIC BAR receives the highest score and our TOP PICK rating. It is an outstanding EZ curl bar that will give you the most across all categories. You will find it giving you great results while also having the most comfort during a workout. And while what you like is subjective, it also looks extremely impressive with its black satin finish.

If you have already used any of our 9 recommended EZ curl bars or have just now decided to buy them, please share your thoughts and impressions via the comment section below. I would be delighted if you would share your experience and tell me if my curl bar reviews helped you to get the right one.

I would be glad to hear your opinion on the differences that you have experienced!

Also Read:

• Best Short Barbell
• Best Deadlift Barbells
• Best Female Barbell
• Best Barbell Pads For Hip Thrusts
• Best Safety Squat Bar
• Best Weight Plates
• Olympic vs Standard Barbell
• Trap Bar Deadlift
• Bushing vs Bearing Barbell

References:

1. The Ultimate Guide On How To Choose A Barbell // BarBend: https://barbend.com/how-to-choose-barbell/
2. 5 things to know before buying your first barbell // Exercise.com: https://www.exercise.com/learn/raising-the-bar-5-things-to-know-before-buying-your-first-barbell/
3. Barbellrling-bar // Wikipedia: https://shorturl.at/ctDV0
4. Biceps curl // Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biceps_curl.html