A complete guide to Barbell Collars
Barbell Collars, Clips or Clamps? What They Are and Which Type You Need
Whether you’re building your home gym, upgrading your kit, or helping others train with confidence, having the right barbell collars also known as barbell clips or barbell clamps is essential. They might be small, but they play a big role in keeping your lifts safe, smooth and secure.
In this guide, we break down the different types of collars, clips and clamps available, what makes each one unique, and how to choose the best pair for your training.
What Are Barbell Collars (aka Clips or Clamps)?
Barbell collars, sometimes called clips or clamps, are designed to hold your weight plates firmly in place on a barbell. Whether you’re hitting heavy reps or moving fast between stations, these small but vital tools stop plates from sliding or shifting mid-lift.
They’re essential for:
- Deadlifts and Olympic lifts
- Bench, squat and overhead press
- Circuit training and strength classes
- Home gym and competition setups
Should I take my own barbell collars to the gym?
Yes. Always. Nothing kills the flow of a session like playing hide and seek with a pair of half-bent gym collars. Even when you find some, they’ve often been used more times than a flat bench on chest day, loose, wobbly and barely clinging on. And when you’re pushing for a PB, the last thing you need is the creeping doubt that your plates might shift mid-lift. Having your own pair means no guesswork, no waiting and no stress. Just clip in and get to work.
Why Barbell Collars Matter More Than You Think
It’s easy to overlook collars or assume one pair fits all. But when you’re mid-lift, the last thing you want is plates sliding, a clip popping loose or a poorly made clamp getting in your way. A reliable set of barbell clamps isn’t just safer it helps you train with more focus and confidence.
👉 Shop All Barbell Collars, Clips and Clamps
The Different Types of Barbell Collars (Clips, Clamps)
1. Traditional Spring Barbell Collars – Stainless Steel
These classic spring clips are the ones most lifters recognise. Made from stainless steel, they’re squeezed to open and slide onto the bar, then released to lock tight.
Also known as:
- Barbell spring clips
- Olympic bar clamps
We stock: 👉 Stainless Steel Olympic Spring Collars (Pair)
2. Olympic Quick Release Barbell Collars 2” (Phoenix Fitness)
These quick release clamps use a simple lever mechanism to lock and unlock in seconds. Built for 50mm Olympic bars and available in Pink, Black and Orange, they’re ideal for lifters who want colour, convenience and security.
Also known as:
- Olympic barbell clips
- Weight bar clamps
We stock: 👉 Phoenix Fitness 2″ Barbell Clips – Multiple Colours
3. Olympic Quick Release Barbell Collars – Gymist
Gymist’s take on the quick release collar features a reinforced internal spring and resin-coated body. Available in Black, Blue, Teal and Red, they’re a top pick for lifters who care about both performance and presentation.
Also known as:
- Olympic bar clamps
- Barbell collars for CrossFit or strength training
We stock: 👉 Gymist Barbell Collars – Olympic 2″ Fit, Multiple Colours
4. 1” Standard Barbell Collars by Phoenix Fitness
Not all bars are Olympic-sized. If you’re using a 1-inch bar (common in starter sets and home gyms), you’ll need these lightweight yet effective quick release clips designed specifically for 25mm bars. Available in Pink, Orange and Black.
Also known as:
- Standard barbell clips
- 1 inch barbell clamps
We stock: 👉 Phoenix Fitness 1″ Barbell Collars – Quick Release, Colour Options
How to Choose the Right Barbell Collars, Clips or Clamps
Choosing the right type depends on your setup and style of training. Here’s what to look for:
- Bar Size: Olympic (50mm) or Standard (25mm)?
- Training Type: Fast-paced (quick release) or slow and steady (spring)?
- Convenience: Lever clamp or squeeze-to-fit?
- Colour Options: Want to coordinate your kit?
- Durability: Training weekly or daily?
Still unsure which barbell clips are right for you? Drop us a message we’re real lifters and happy to help.