If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best squat stands are for better lower body exercise, then we recommend the HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack as the best one.
The importance of performing correct squat exercises cannot be overstated, especially when looking to build quad, calve, hamstring and other lower body muscles.
As I started my fitness journey two years ago, I barely knew the importance of squat exercises as I would combine different workouts without a specific focus.
However, upon sustaining several injuries, I decided it was time to take my squat workouts seriously and invest in a proper squat stand.
If you love home workouts as I do, then this review will come in handy as I will compare the best squat stands in the market while also providing useful information to help you make the right choice when making your purchase.
Here are the top squat stands we’ll be reviewing:
- HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack
- Valor Fitness BD-9 Independent Power Squat Stands
- Yaheetech Adjustable Portable Squat Rack
- F2C Adjustable Standard Squat Stands
- CAP Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand
How to Choose the Best Squat Stands
As you might be aware, choosing the best squat stand is not a straightforward thing to do.
With many products to select from, you must be extra careful to ensure you select a perfect fit.
Unfortunately, I was unlucky when purchasing my first squat stand as I was not keen enough on factors such as size and capacity.
To ensure you do not make the same mistake that I did, below are important factors you should keep in mind as you look to purchase the best squat stand.
Space
Space is without a doubt a huge factor that you should consider before making any purchase.
Always check on the dimensions to ensure that you have a rough picture of the stand`s overall size.
If you have a large workout space, then you can go for the large sized racks; however, if you do not have enough space, it is vital to counter check the dimensions for you to purchase a right sized squat stand.
Also, since most first time buyers assume specifications such as vertical height, it is prudent to confirm a squat stand’s height before buying to avoid disappointments after purchasing.
Storage Pegs
Although not all products come with storage pegs for storing weight plates, it is important to go for one with storage posts, especially if you are a first time user.
On top of creating space in your workout area, storage pegs help increase a squat stand`s center of gravity which, in turn, reduces the chances of falls or injury during use.
If you have used a squat stand before, then you can go for products that do not have storage posts; however, for first timers, choosing stands that come with storage pegs is recommended.
Weight Capacity
Put simply, the best squat stands are those that come with flexible weight capacity.
If you are a first time buyer, then you might be tempted to go for stands with low weight capacity.
Although starting with small weights is highly recommended, it is also important to think about progress.
That is, as you select your squat stand, do not limit yourself to the weights you can lift; instead, go for a stand with high weight limits to ensure you won’t have to make new purchases as you grow stronger.
Versatility
As you look to purchase your preferred squat stand, it is vital to select a product that is versatile enough to be put to several uses.
A proper squat stand should allow for several exercises such as bench-presses and dips among others.
Therefore, go for stands that have an allowance for other accessories and exercises.
Do not limit yourself by selecting products that will restrict you to the basic exercises.
Safety
It goes without saying that the best squat stands should have enhanced safety features.
As such, always check on factors such as the shape of the base before making any purchase since, the larger the surface area of the base, the greater the chances of avoiding workout related injury.
Whether you are an expert or a novice starting out, it is critical to invest in products with safety enhancing features such as anchor pins, j-cups, rubber surfaces, screw buckles and safety bolts.
Precautions When Using The Squat Stands
Assembly
As you look to embark on your fitness journey, it is wise to take extra caution, especially when assembling the different parts of your squat stand.
Since almost every product comes with a user manual, be sure to refer to the installation guide when piecing up the parts.
The easiest way to avoid workout related injuries is to take extra caution, more so when dealing with high risk equipment such as squat stands.
Exercise in Adequate Space
No matter your level of experience, you should never workout in a crowded environment. Always weigh your options before purchasing squat stands.
When purchasing my first stand, I miscalculated my space and purchased an excessively large one.
Although the stand fitted well in my workout area, it consumed a significant amount of space, consequently making it difficult to exercise without stumbling on other equipment.
You should avoid such blunders by purchasing a squat stand that can fit your designated workout space.
Anti-Skid Rubber Pads
No matter how tempted you might be by the price, never purchase a squat stand without rubber or anti-skid feet pads.
As mentioned earlier, squat stands are high risk equipment that can cause injury, especially when wrongly handled.
As such, ensure you replace your feet pads in case the rubber wears off after repeated use.
Product Showdown
HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack
The HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack is among the most effective squat stands in the market due to its ability to get the most out of your lower back muscles.
The product boasts of an impressive 800-pound overall weight capacity which enables you to progress gradually from the light weights to the heavier ones.
To increase stability and safety when in use, the HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack comes with a H-shaped base.
Also, the squat stand comes with two pull up bars and dip bars as well. The product weighs a total of 110 pounds making it heavy enough to support your various workouts.
Pros
- Comes with two weight holders which increase convenience as well as overall stability when in use.
- H-Shaped base designed to enhance stability during workouts consequently allowing you to lift heavy weights without the scare of falls or instability.
- Comes with two dip bars designed to help you perform several exercise with your squat stand.
- Rubber feet to protect the floor and increase stability
- Two pull up bars
- Multiple holes which allow easy adjustment of the bar when working out.
- 81-inches tall with a 44-inch width to enhance usability
Cons
- Not great for dips as the dip bar weight capacity is not too high
Valor Fitness BD-9 Independent Power Squat Stands
The Valor Fitness BD-9 Independent Power Squat Stands comes with 10 adjustment holes which can adjust from 48.5 to 70 inches.
The main frame is made from 13-gauge steel which makes the stand strong enough to handle different lower body workouts.
To increase overall stability, the product comes with two upright stands that adjustable to give you increased foot space when working out.
The presence of telescoping J-hooks ensures that the stand can be adjusted depending on your height.
Pros
- Can support a maximum weight of 350 pounds allowing first timers to workout with ease and improve gradually.
- 3-position base that is adjustable to increase footprint space for better stability.
- Rubber topped bar for increased safety during use
- Can be used for bench press since the bar catches are adjustable.
- Can be adjusted to fit in smaller spaces
- Comes with plate storage or supporting pegs which also increase stability during workouts.
- Has protective rubber strips in different contact areas to enhance user safety.
Cons
- Limited weight capacity for heavy lifters
Yaheetech Adjustable Portable Squat Rack
The Yaheetech Adjustable Portable Squat Rack has a unique design that focuses on user safety.
With the frame made of heavy duty steel construction, the product is extremely stable making it convenient for inexperienced users.
Moreover, the presence of anti-scuff and anti-skid rubber ensures your squat stand does not damage the floor or slide during use.
Pros
- Comes with a safety bolt that can be adjusted depending on your height
- Adjustable height from 44 to 70 inches making it convenient for use
- Uses toughened metal nuts which come with inner washers that are non-slip
- H-shaped base for increased stability
- Adjustable barbell stands to meet your various work out needs
- Comprises of two heavy duty metal racks for barbell
- Maximum weight of 441 pounds
- 14 rack levels with 2cm gaps making the stand convenient for use
Cons
- Does not have supporting pegs for storing weights
F2C Adjustable Standard Squat Stands
The F2C Adjustable Standard Squat Stands can support a maximum weight of 550 pounds making it appropriate for serious beginners looking to work their way up.
The frame can adjust from 41-66 inches accommodating different workouts.
Impressively, the squat stand has 13 positions that can be adjusted to suit your workout needs.
The presence of high quality rubber ends prevent the squat stand from damaging your floor.
Pros
- Easy to adjust
- The rubber padded ends give the stand more support and prevents it from damaging your floor.
- Has 13 holes that can be used for height adjustment
- H-shaped base design for increased stability
- Supports weight for up to 550 pounds
- J hook-upper bracket for enhanced safety by keeping barbells in place during workouts.
- Safety spotters
- Easy assembly as it comes with a user manual and mounting instructions
- Comes as two free standing, separate racks which makes the squat bar easy to move.
Cons
- Not appropriate for extremely tall people as it only extends to 66 inches
CAP Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand
The CAP Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand is among the best squat stands in the market.
Unlike other squat stands, the CAP Barbell Power rack comes in different colors ranging from yellow, green, blue, gray, orange red or gray thus allowing you to pick the color of your preference.
The product is 46 inches wide and 85 inches high making it appropriate for all users.
Moreover, the CAP squat stand is made of 12 gage tubing which ensures the stand meets international standards.
Pros
- Boasts of uprights that are double gusseted to provide exceptional security and stability during use.
- Comes with a j-cup for holding the barbells safely in position
- Industrial zinc and powder coat finishes ensure the stand lasts for long and maintains its color.
- Can support 500 pounds for bar catches and an impressive 750 pounds for its pull up bar.
- Weighs 75 pounds making it easy move around when the need arises
Cons
- Does not have weight storage pegs
Final Thoughts
As can be seen from the above review, squat stands come with several safety and exercise enhancing features.
While it is important to start with small weights as you build resistance, you should also select a squat stand that will accommodate your development over time.
Therefore, it is advisable to go for products with large weight limits.
For first timers looking to start slow and safe, the CAP Barbell power rack is the best option since its manufacturer prioritized safety when designing the product.
Of all the mentioned products, the CAP Barbell Power Rack is the easiest to assemble meaning it won’t require much before it is ready for use.
However, if you are experienced, or a beginner looking to lift heavy weights in the near future, then it is advisable to go for the HulkFit Multi-Function Adjustable Power Rack which has a weight allowance of up to 800 pounds.
The Hulkit power rack can be used for dips, lift ups, bench-press among a host of other exercises thus giving you value for money.
Now that you have all the information, the ball is in your court as you look to buy the best squat stand for lower body exercises.
Remember, no matter how much you want to achieve your fitness goals, it is always important to prioritize safety.
As such, ensure you practice caution whenever you’re working out, especially during the first days after assembling your squat stand.
