When you walk into a gym, you might assume every barbell weighs the same. Yet when it comes to deadlift bars, things get a little more technical. Understanding how much a deadlift bar weighs isn’t just trivia it directly impacts your performance, progress tracking, and competition readiness.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about deadlift bar weights, from the standard sizes to the subtle differences between brands and types. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned powerlifter, knowing these details will help you lift smarter and more consistently.
What Is a Deadlift Bar and Why Its Weight Matters
A deadlift bar looks like a regular Olympic barbell, but it’s designed specifically for one purpose pulling more weight from the ground efficiently. These bars are slightly longer, thinner, and more flexible than standard barbells. This unique design creates what lifters call “bar whip”, which means the bar bends more under load, allowing a smoother pull and a higher lift.
Deadlift Bar vs. Standard Olympic Bar
| Feature | Deadlift Bar | Olympic Bar |
| Length | ~90–92 inches | ~86 inches |
| Diameter | 27mm | 28–29mm |
| Weight | 20 kg (44 lbs) | 20 kg (44 lbs, men) / 15 kg (33 lbs, women) |
| Flexibility | High (more whip) | Stiffer |
| Knurling | Sharper for better grip | Medium |
That small difference in whip and grip can make a massive difference in your deadlift max. The weight itself usually 20 kg serves as the foundation of your total load. If your bar is heavier or lighter, your tracking will be off. That’s why understanding the bar’s actual weight is crucial for accuracy.
How Much Does a Deadlift Bar Weigh on Average?
The standard deadlift bar weight is 20 kilograms (44 pounds). However, it’s important to note that not all bars are created equal. Depending on the manufacturer and the bar’s purpose, this weight can vary slightly.
Here’s a quick comparison table of common barbell types and their weights:
| Bar Type | Weight (kg) | Weight (lbs) | Primary Use |
| Standard Deadlift Bar | 20 | 44 | Powerlifting |
| Olympic Barbell (Men’s) | 20 | 44 | Olympic Lifting |
| Olympic Barbell (Women’s) | 15 | 33 | Olympic Lifting |
| Trap (Hex) Bar | 25–30 | 55–65 | Deadlifts, Shrugs |
| Power Bar | 20–25 | 44–55 | Squats, Bench Press |
| Women’s Deadlift Bar | 15 | 33 | Female Powerlifters |
Even though 20 kg is considered the “norm,” you’ll often find trap bars and specialty bars weighing up to 30 kg or more due to their unique frame and handles.
Different Types of Deadlift Bars and Their Weights
1. Standard Deadlift Bar (20 kg / 44 lbs)
The most common bar used in powerlifting meets and professional gyms. It’s longer and thinner (27mm diameter) which gives it more flex or whip. This helps lifters generate momentum before the plates fully leave the ground.
Examples of Standard Deadlift Bars:
- Rogue Ohio Deadlift Bar – 20 kg
- Texas Deadlift Bar – 20 kg
- Eleiko Powerlifting Bar – 20 kg
These bars are built to meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards, ensuring consistent weight and balance.
2. Olympic Deadlift Bar (20 kg for men / 15 kg for women)
Olympic bars are slightly stiffer and built for movements like clean and jerk or snatch, not just deadlifts. The men’s version weighs 20 kg, while the women’s version is lighter at 15 kg.
- Men’s Olympic Bar: 7 feet long, 20 kg
- Women’s Olympic Bar: 6.5 feet long, 15 kg
The lighter design helps women athletes train with proper form and technique.
3. Trap (Hex) Bar (25–30 kg / 55–65 lbs)
Unlike straight bars, the trap bar has a hexagonal shape allowing you to stand in the middle of it. This design shifts the weight distribution and reduces stress on your lower back.
Average Trap Bar Weight:
- Standard Hex Bar: 25 kg (55 lbs)
- Heavy Duty Trap Bar: 30 kg (65 lbs)
While not technically a “deadlift bar,” it’s used for similar movements and often mistaken for one.
4. Specialty Deadlift Bars
Some bars are made for unique training needs or competitions. For instance, strongman deadlift bars or stiff bars can weigh slightly more (22–25 kg). These bars use denser steel and longer sleeves to handle extreme loads.
| Specialty Bar | Weight | Use |
| Stiff Bar | 22–25 kg | Heavy deadlifts with no whip |
| Elephant Bar | 25 kg | Strongman competitions |
| Deadlift Jack Bar | 23 kg | Easier plate loading/unloading |
Factors That Affect a Deadlift Bar’s Weight
Not all 20 kg bars are exactly 20 kg. Here are a few things that cause variations:
- Material Used: Alloy vs stainless steel changes density.
- Length and Thickness: Longer or thicker bars weigh slightly more.
- Knurling and Collar Design: Heavy-duty collars add up to 1–2 kg.
- Coating: Chrome, zinc, or cerakote coatings can alter total mass.
- Brand Specifications: Rogue, Texas, and Eleiko bars have subtle design differences.
How to Weigh a Deadlift Bar Correctly
If you’re not sure about your bar’s actual weight, you can easily check it.
Here’s how:
- Place a digital scale flat on the ground.
- Balance one end of the bar on a stable object at the same height as the scale.
- Rest the other end gently on the scale.
- Multiply the reading by two for the total weight.
Pro Tip: Always check your bar before calculating your total lift weight especially in commercial gyms where different brands mix together.
Why Deadlift Bar Weight Differs Between Gyms
If you’ve ever noticed your lifts feeling “lighter” or “heavier” at a different gym, it’s probably not your imagination. Many gyms use non-standard or budget bars that can weigh anywhere from 18–23 kg, depending on the brand and usage wear.
Commercial gyms may also use multi-purpose barbells meant for various exercises rather than competition-grade deadlift bars. Powerlifting or CrossFit gyms, on the other hand, stick to standardized 20 kg bars for accuracy.
FAQs About Deadlift Bar Weight
- How much does a standard deadlift bar weigh?
A standard deadlift bar weighs 20 kg (44 lbs), which is the competition standard in powerlifting. - Is a deadlift bar heavier than an Olympic bar?
No, they generally weigh the same (20 kg), but a deadlift bar feels different due to its length and flexibility. - Do women’s deadlift bars weigh less?
Yes, most women’s bars weigh 15 kg (33 lbs) for easier handling and training accuracy. - Does the bar weight affect your PR?
Absolutely. Using a heavier or lighter bar skews your numbers. Always check your bar’s exact weight before logging your maxes. - Can I use a trap bar instead of a deadlift bar?
You can, but the mechanics differ. Trap bars shift the load center, engaging quads more and reducing lower back strain.
Key Takeaways
- The average deadlift bar weight is 20 kg (44 lbs).
- Women’s versions weigh 15 kg (33 lbs).
- Trap and specialty bars can weigh 25–30 kg (55–65 lbs).
- Always verify your bar type and manufacturer specifications.
- The right bar ensures accurate tracking, proper progression, and fair competition preparation.