The 6 Best Folding Squat Racks of 2023, According to a Certified Trainer

Choosing the right folding squat rack for you all comes down to your workout style and the space you're working with. Here are a few factors worth considering when shopping:

Style and functionality: Folding squat racks can serve a wide variety of exercises, including pull-ups, squats, rows,—the list goes on. The best models are multifunctional and compatible with add-on accessories to allow for dozens of full-body workouts. If you're short on space, maybe you can skip the pull-up bar. For a more full-featured option, you might want a beefier rack with multiple add-ons and attachments that expand your workout options.

Durability: The type of construction is heavily tied in with a rack’s total weight capacity. Almost every model on the market today is made of steel, alloy steel, or powder-coated steel. The true measure of strength is the gauge of steel used. The higher gauge, the stronger the cage. But better-quality steel will always be safer, more durable, better equipped to handle heavy weights, and more long-lasting.

Weight capacity: Every foldable squat rack has a corresponding weight limit, with most models ranging between 300 and 2,000 pounds. Always aim for a rack that has at least a 500-pound weight capacity (though most on this list are higher). No, you may never lift 500 pounds on any single movement, but you'll thank yourself for having that margin for error if you ever miss on a squat and lose control of the bar.

Size: If you're looking for a folding squat rack in the first place, you're probably dealing with limited space. So keep in mind that each rack has a unique footprint when folded and when in use, so be sure to only shop for a folding rack that your space can accommodate.

"Not all wall-mounted racks have room for somebody to step "inside" the rack and spot you," explains Samuel. "That's important to note especially if you're hoping to bench press in your rack. If you are, pass on ultra-slim options like Sorinex's OFF-THE-GRID."

One more thing: Free-standing racks should only be utilized on an even, non-slip surface (check out these best home gym flooring options), away from stairs.

Customizability: The best foldable racks are customizable to fit your personal routine. If you're tight on space, you might opt for a wall-mounted rack, because they're great. From footprint size when in use or folded, to height, to additional accessory options, every cage offers a slightly different level of customization. This is another place where, if you can afford it, it’s worth splurging on a rack with more adjustability to adapt to your workout needs now and in the future. In the long run, purchasing a rack that can grow with you will allow you to get more out of your home gym investment.

There are a number of good reasons to buy a folding squat rack, the most notable of which is it's space-saving potential.

One of the biggest advantages of a folding squat rack, by far, is that it takes up much less space than a traditional squat rack. This is particularly important if you have a smaller home gym or a limited amount of workout space. Instead of taking up precious space and collecting dust when not in use, the rack can be folded up against the wall, freeing up floor space for exercises, equipment, or other living space.

Another advantage is that it's often more portable than a traditional squat rack (unless it's wall-mounted). This means that free-standing foldable racks can more easily be moved from one location to another, whether that's within your home gym or to a different workout space altogether (even outdoors, given an even surface to place it on). Some free-standing models even come with wheels, making it easy to move the rack around without having to disassemble it.

Because they're a lot less rack, folding squat racks also tend to be more affordable than traditional ones, which can be quite expensive. This is especially true if you opt for a simple model that doesn't come with a lot of extra bells and whistles, like the one from Sorinex.

And, just like a traditional rack, many foldable options are compatible with a variety of add-ons like pull-up bars and dip bars that make them more versatile. Meaning you can perform a variety of exercises using just one piece of equipment. That's what we call a space-saving solution.

A squat rack can be used for virtually any barbell exercise you can think of, even the folding ones (given it's construction is high-quality). It's important to note that benches are typically sold separately, which you'll need to perform some exercises. Depending on a rack's specifications and add-ons, you may be able to use it to perform a variety of non-barbell strength exercises such as pull ups, too. Although many of these accessories are compatible with various racks, it’s important to use them only with the equipment they were designed for.

The process of folding and unfolding a these racks is unique to each brand's design. Some fold inward, while some fold upward, for example. It's important to follow the specific instructions associated with each product to ensure it's set up as intended for optimal support and safety.

Our in-house fitness experts and staff researched and evaluated dozens of the best-selling and top-rated foldable squat racks on the market. We considered every essential feature from construction and durability to overall dimensions and weight capacity, plus any extra features, such as free delivery, extended warranties, and ease of assembly. The list above represents our honest picks of the very best folding squat racks to shop in 2023.