Written by Kiel DiGiovanni | Co-Founder
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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You want to do squats in your home gym but you’re short on available space, right? Enter the folding squat rack, the equipment you've been looking for, and SET FOR SET, with the recommendations you need.
We spent countless hours researching the market and testing foldable squat racks to find you the 8 best folding squat racks for home gyms. You'll see that these folding racks will satisfy all types of users from bodybuilders to CrossFitters to powerlifters.
No matter your budget or usage, this list of the top rated foldable squat racks has you covered.
Table of Contents:
- The 8 best folding squat racks
- Comparison table
- What is a foldable squat rack?
- Types of foldable squat racks
- What to look for when buying a folding squat rack
- Benefits of foldable squat racks
- FAQs about squat racks
8 BEST FOLDING SQUAT RACKS FOR YOUR HOME GYM
- Best Overall : Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
- Budget Pick: PRx Fold-In ONE Rack
- Premium Pick: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar
- For Small Spaces: Profile® ONE Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar
- Amazon Budget Pick: Merax Wall Mount Folding Squat Rack
- For Low Ceilings: FringeSport Retractable Power Rack
- Wall Mounted: Tru Grit Foldable Wall-Mount Power Rack
- For CrossFit: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Kipping Bar™
SFS Pick
Force USA MyRack
SFS Budget Pick
PRx Fold-In ONE
SFS Premium Pick
Profile® PRO Squat Rack
1. Best Overall Folding Squat Rack: Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
The Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack has something most other folding racks simply don't - the ability to perform well without needing to be bolted to a wall. This means ease of maintenance for the user and greater usage of available space.
This folding rack is easy to set up and put away thanks to its pop-pin technology and it sports heavy-duty 12 gauge steel to support heavy loads. Another reason why this is the best folding squat rack is that you can customize it with up to 10 separate attachments. This folding rack also comes with a pull up bar that allows for multi-grip pull ups.
Unfortunately, it only holds a 20-inch fold-away depth, but then again, you need to mount most racks to the wall.
The square steel uprights are 2.4" with 54 different vertical adjustment Westside hole spaces, you'll have plenty of mobility to find your ideal height whether you're doing squats or bench press.
A maximum weight capacity of 2000 lb makes this one of the best folding squat racks money can buy. As a healthy bonus, they also provide a lifetime warranty!
Pros
- Does not require bolstering to a wall, providing you with greater ease of usage
- Westside Hole Spacing allows you to find the perfect space management
- Includes multi-grip pull up bar
- You can purchase add-ons such as Weight Plate Holders, Dip Bar, and safety slings
Cons
- Stronger individuals might opt for 11 gauge steel rather than the 12 gauge of the MyRack
- J hooks, plate storage, spotter arms are sold separately
- Does eat up more space when folded away compared to other squat racks
The Force USA Folding MyRack Power Rack is the first fully folding power rack system of its kind. Configure your modular base rack with your choice of 10 attachments to suit the way you train...
2. Best Budget Folding Squat Rack: PRx Fold-In ONE Rack
When it comes to a budget folding rack, very few beat the PRx Fold-In ONE Rack. It treads the line of value for money perfectly, as this 1000 lb capacity rack provides you with everything the recreational lifter might need.
A 14 gauge steel structure might leave some feeling there's more to be desired, and for the more advanced lifter, that might be true. That is not really what this piece was designed for, as it was made to be sleek, cheap, and ready to handle everyday lifting.
This wall mounted squat rack includes an adjustable pull up bar and 2 J hooks. You're in good hands with this folding rack as PRx holds the original patent for wall-mounted folding racks.
Pros
- Has a folded depth of merely 6.75 inches
- All the mounting equipment and hardware are included in the total price
- Has 2-inch spacing on the front allowing for easier equipment attachment
Cons
- Only has a 1000 lb rack capacity
- 14 gauge steel
Over the years, we've heard you say that product quality is of utmost importance when investing in gym equipment, but so is affordability. That's why we developed an economical rack...
3. Best Premium Folding Squat Rack: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar
To classify as the best premium bar, you have to not just offer exceptional quality but also something more than that. With 10 custom colors and only 4 inches of folded away depth, the Profile® PRO Squat Rack is, without doubt, the best option.
It comes with a Multi-Grip pull up bar that holds four more pull up grips than the average bar. Some folding racks on this list might offer a greater weight capacity, but few hit the balance of quality, optionality, and customization like the Pro Squat Rack.
As we previously mentioned this company holds the original patent for folding racks so it's no wonder why they've been able to create one that folds away seamlessly.
Last but not least this wall-mounted folding rack has uprights that are comprised of 3x3 11-gauge steel resulting in a weight capacity of over 1,000 lb.
Pros
- Has a folded depth of only 4 inches
- Made using 11 gauge steel for optimal strength
- Has two height options: 90 and 96 inches
- J hooks included
Cons
- Not really cost-effective
- Some users have complained about damage due to shipping
The patented wall-mounted folding Profile® ONE Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar is the most convenient space-saving rack to hit the market. Easily transform any garage, home, or small commercial space...
4. Best Folding Squat Rack For Small Spaces: Profile® ONE Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar
If you're limited in space, you're going to need something that is not only small but is also easy to pack away. The ONE Squat Rack fits this description perfectly as it does not require any equipment to fold it away, and it only takes 4 inches of space when folded.
The wall-mounted rack includes a pull up bar, 2 J hooks, and 11-gauge steel uprights that hold up to 1,000 lb.
This compact squat rack gives you more space to work with when it's put away after usage.
Pros
- Uses 11 gauge steel which you don't often find in cost effective options
- Has an extremely easy folding technology
- Two height options
- Pull up bar and J hooks included
Cons
- Can be somewhat difficult to set up
Easily transform any garage, home, or small commercial space into a multi-functioning gym while sacrificing just 4" of wall space when not in use. The patented wall-mounted folding Profile® ONE Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar is the...
5. Best Amazon Budget Folding Squat Rack: Merax Wall Mount Folding Squat Rack
Sometimes the most accessible option might just be popping over to Amazon, and the best of those offerings would be the Merax Wall Mount Folding Squat Rack. While there isn't anything revolutionary about this particular squat rack, it will get the job done at a cost-effective price.
This compact wall-mounted folding rack includes sets of J-cups, you'll have the freedom to do all the movements needed to gain strength, even though other racks provide a weight rating higher than 1000 lb.
The folding rack features a featured pin and hinge system that allows users to setup and then break down within minutes. You'll also be able to do all the pull ups you want with the bar that comes standard with this extremely affordable folding rack.
Pros
- Makes use of heavy-duty 3 "x2" steel for optimal strength
- Pull up bar and 2 sets of J cups included
Cons
- Minimal information available on this product
- Does not offer add-ons for this particular rack
Convenient Conversion - The featured pin and hinge system allows you to quickly remove the pull up bar after the workout, and simply fold the rack up against the wall when you're done...
6. Best Folding Squat Rack For Low Ceilings: FringeSport Retractable Power Rack
FringeSport is a trusted name for home gym equipment when it comes to power racks, squat stands, foldable squat racks and more.
Being limited in space is never an ideal situation, especially in height. This is where having the ability to adjust your pull up bar would come in handy, which is precisely what the Retractable Power Rack offers.
Many folding racks offer pull up bars but not so many have the ability to adjust the height. With Fringe Sport's wall mounted squat rack you can set the pull up bar at a height that ranges from 70-88" from the floor.
Combining the 11 gauge steel with the ease of space management, it really is a compelling package. Not to mention the steel uprights offer Westside hole spacing in the bench zone.
While other folding racks on the list might have a higher weight rating or better space management, this opts for something in the middle and succeeds very well at that endeavor.
Pros
- J-cups are plastic coated for extra pain protection
- Extremely cost effective for the quality
- Includes Westside spacing in the bench press area
- Only 5" rack depth when folded away
Cons
- Weight rating of only 800 lb
The Retractable Power Rack makes a good addition to any home/garage gym. The rack retracts for easy storage and includes a pull up bar and squat rack. If you're tight on space you can unfold to use and stow away...
7. Best Wall Mounted Folding Squat Rack: Tru Grit Foldable Wall-Mount Power Rack
The Tru Grit Foldable Wall-Mount Power Rack would make a great addition to your home gym and brings together various traits we love from all the available racks. Not only is it made using exceptional quality steel, but it is also made in the USA, so quality is assured.
The wall-mounted folding rack is comprised of a powder coat finish of 3x3 .125" diameter high-grade steel that has a simple to install and fold away pin and hinge system.
Pull ups are also possible on the quick attach bar that's included and with a lifetime warranty on material and welds its hard to spot any faults with this foldable squat rack.
Pros
- They ensure the quality will stand the test of time
- Built using high-quality steel
Cons
- Does not list the folded dimensions or the weight limit
Fold your rack into the wall for the ultimate space saving gym & storage solution. All the features from a traditional rack with folding abilities. Maximize space with out sacrificing strength..
8. Best Folding Squat Rack For CrossFit: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Kipping Bar™
CrossFitters have different needs, and the kind folk at PRx Performance were kind enough to add a Kipping Bar to this particular wall mounted squat rack. It maintains its ability to fold away and allows weights over 1000 lb.
By now you know that we think PRx makes some of the best folding racks on the market.
The Kipping Bar does add height, but the fact that your head might even reach higher than that, shouldn't be a problem. The real drawback comes from the massive height increase once folded away.
Pros
- 11 gauge steel allows for a 1000 + lb rating
- Comes in 10 custom colors
- Allows for kipping pull ups
Cons
- Does have a significant height profile
The patented wall-mounted folding Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Kipping Bar™ is revolutionizing the workout space as we know it. Easily transform any garage, home or small commercial...
TOP FOLDING SQUAT RACKS COMPARISON CHART
We put together a side by side comparison that highlights the differences between the 8 best folding squat racks available today.
|
Product Name |
Price ($-$$$$) |
Size (dimensions) |
Warranty |
Weight Capacity |
Attachments Included |
Average rating |
|
$$ |
Working: 49" (W) x 41" (D) x 86" (H) Folded: 52" (W) x 20" (D) x 84" (H) |
Lifetime Structural Warranty |
2000 lb (907 kg) |
Built-in multi-grip chin up bar |
11 Reviews
★★★★★
|
|
|
$ |
Working: 49" (W) x 27.5" (D) x 90" (H) Folded: 49" (W) x 6.75" (D) x 90" (H) |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
1000 lb (453 kg) |
2 J-cups |
48 Reviews
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$$ |
Folded: 52" (W) x 29.25" (D) x 90/96" (H) Working: 52" (W) x 11.25" (D) x 108"/114" (H) |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
1000 + lb (453 + kg) |
2 J-cups |
48 Reviews
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$ |
Folded: 52" (W) x 9’’ (D) x 108" (H) Working: 52" (W) x 26.75"(D) x 90" (H) |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
1000 lb (453 kg) |
2 J-cups |
12
Reviews ★★★★★.5
|
|
|
$ |
Working: 47" (W) x 23" (D) x 91" (H) |
NA |
1000 lb (453 kg) |
2 J-cups |
4
Reviews ★★★★★
|
|
|
$$ |
Folded: 47.25" (W) x 5’’ (D) x 91" (H) Working: 47.25" (W) x 25’’ (D) x 91" (H) |
Full year satisfaction guarantee |
800 lb (362 kg) |
2 plastic covered J-cups |
25
Reviews ★★★★★
|
|
|
$$ |
Working: 42’’ (W) x 23.62’’ (D) x 90.55’’ (H) |
Lifetime Warranty On Material and Welds |
Not listed |
2 J-cups |
★★★★★
|
|
|
$$$ |
Folded: 52" (W) x 22.5" (D) x 108/114" (H)
Working: 52" (W) x 39.5" (D) x 90/96" (H) |
Limited Lifetime Warranty |
1000 + lb |
2 J-cups |
23
Reviews ★★★★★
|
WHAT IS A FOLDING SQUAT RACK?
As the name suggests, a folding squat rack, well, folds. A folding squat rack aims to give you the best of both worlds regarding rigidity and ease of packaging. Of course, quality is of utmost importance when it comes to your safety, but you also want something that will be easy to fold away and package. Folding squat racks come in all shapes and sizes but they all share a common purpose, to provide a base to perform barbell exercises while not taking up too much space.
TYPES OF FOLDING SQUAT RACKS:
You might be surprised to hear that there are various types of folding squat racks, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. We will cover each type of folding rack so that you can better understand which might be the best fit for you.
1. Wall Mounted Squat Racks
As the name suggests, wall-mounted racks are affixed to the wall and will typically require drilling of some sort. This potentially allows for greater rigidity and strength, but locks said rack in place.
Wall-mounted racks are great for those who are comfortable enough with performing the installation properly and don't mind the fact that once you set it up it's most likely staying in that same location for some time. Just remember that all folding wall-mounted racks require a sturdy anchor of sorts whether it's the studs in your walls or cinderblocks.
Wall-mounted racks take away from mobility, but you should be fine if you're always training in that particular space.
2. Door Mounted Squat Rack
A door-mounted squat rack uses the beams on either side of the entrance to create the perfect platform to perform an incline barbell bench press on. But, of course, these have the same drawback as wall-mounted racks regarding being locked in space.
The beauty of having a door mounted foldable rack is that this space is usually left to waste as you couldn't set up a large piece of equipment in a door's entrance without it being a fire hazard or a big pain in the butt to avoid when going in and out of a room.
3. Stand Alone Squat Rack
Stand-alone folding squat racks have way more freedom than the mounted versions, making you believe that they might be lower in strength. Yet, the strongest rack on this list is a stand-alone rack. These combine efficiency, strength, and value for money for the best package. For example, the Force USA MyRack Folding squat rack provides every functionality that a full power rack offers in less than half the space.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A FOLDING SQUAT RACK FOR HOME GYM:
Before jotting down your credit card number on the screen and signing for that package, there are a few things to consider. To avoid disappointment and potential injury, make sure you follow these tips:
1. Size
This should be the first thing that pops into your mind. The amount of space available to you will dictate the folding rack that's the best fit for your gym.
When purchasing a folding squat rack, you need to consider all the dimensions - especially height. You might be aiming to do muscle ups, and if your head is going to hit the ceiling, it definitely won't be a good fit.
Another point to consider when purchasing foldable squat racks is the rack depth when it's folded away so that you have an idea of the space-saving capability it offers.
Lastly, if you're planning on a wall-mounted rack then you need to measure the width of the wall space where you want to install it. You'll need to make sure that the rack can safely be installed in the area. We've seen some less than handy people try to install a wall mount rack to only the drywall which is a recipe for disaster!
2. Build Quality
Ideally, you only want to have to purchase one of these bad boys in your lifetime. That said, you should aim for a rack built with high-quality steel with 11 gauge being optimal or 14 gauge being the cutoff. The steel uprights should be 2x3 or even better 3x3 steel to make sure it can withstand heavy loads. At the low end, a folding rack that has a capacity should be fine for most but we are a tad conservative and would opt for the 1,000+ lb rating.
Speaking of uprights, try to find a rack with hole spacing that's considered "Westside" , this is the industry standard where the holes towards the bottom are closer together than towards the top, usually 25mm and 50mm, respectively.
3. Attachments
Not all the racks will come with certain attachments that you'll need such as J hooks or spotter arms. Make sure to read the fine details before making a purchase to save yourself the potential headache of placing a second order because you didn't receive attachments that you saw in the product's picture but aren't actually included.
4. Ease Of Folding
This one will save you a lot of grievances. Many headphones have been broken after failed PRs. You don't want that happening to your $800 rack because you had trouble folding it back. Opt for options that have easy folding mechanisms, as this will make everyday life easier and make the whole storage system a more pleasant experience.
A folding squat rack should be easy to setup and take down after usage. We found the PRx racks to be the easiest to setup and put away. Try to find racks that have a hinge and pin system so that you can get up and going within minutes.
5. Price/Budget
Purchasing something that will put you in a credit crisis isn't a great idea. Instead, make sure you purchase a piece that will allow you the freedom to purchase the other add-ons you need to reach your physical and strength goals.
You can find a quality squat rack that folds at a price point under $700 without a problem. Consider the other factors that go into the price such as the warranty, usage, build quality and space available before honing in on a budget rack.
You can learn more about pricing in our article: How Much Does A Squat Rack Cost?
6. Difficulty of Assembly/Installation
Some of the options we've listed today come with all the included hardware, such as the racks from PRx Performance. That means fewer trips to the hardware store - if any.
Others will require drilling and serious build technology to ensure you don't accidentally cut off a wire.
The majority of folding racks require you to bolt them to the wall. A wall-mounted squat rack can be a real pain to install if you aren't comfortable with power tools. Some manufacturers will include stringers that are anchored to the wall, making your life easier. If your wall-mounted squat rack doesn't come with stringers then you'll have to visit your local hardware store to buy the appropriate type of wood.
If you're concerned with assembly, ask Bob down the street to help you or purchase a more customer-friendly option. Keep in mind that some manufacturers offer an assembly and installation package for an added fee.
7. Usage
When purchasing a rack, be honest with yourself about how you will use it. For example, you might not need the max strength rating, so why spend the extra money - you could use that on add-ons. Look for racks with pull up bars if you want to be able to crush WOD or search for a rack that provides Westside hole spacing to cater to your bench pressing.
8. Online Rating
What have other people been experiencing? Is it as small as they say, as easy to install as they say? If the product usually arrives with broken pieces, make sure you know the warranty details. Oh, and another thing, if something only has 5-star reviews with no drawbacks, it's probably fake. Make sure to read the site reviews and others, such as those on Reddit.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF FOLDING SQUAT RACKS?
Folding squat racks offer tremendous benefits for home gym owners.
Let's look at some of the reasons why you may want to consider a folding rack:
1. Space Saving:
As you might expect, having something that can fold away allows you to utilize more of your space for other equipment and weights. Most squat racks take up a lot of floor space which can be a problem for home or garage gyms where the available space is limited. Even if compared to squat stands many folding racks would take up less space while offering more functionality.
2. Cost Effective:
Compared to a full squat rack or power rack, the folding ones may offer a more cost-effective version for a similar yield in performance. A cheaper rack might only set you back a few hundred dollars!
3. Safety:
Folding racks in a home gym help to keep you safe when you're lifting. Let's say you're going for a PR squat and there's no one around to spot you, this could be dangerous if you couldn't get out of the hole. Most folding racks have the option of purchasing spotter arms or safety pins of sorts that will catch the bar in case of failure. That said you have to check the specific product to see if the spotter arms or safety bars are included in the purchase or if you'll have to buy separately.
4. Convenience:
A foldable squat rack in your home gym could save you countless hours of commute to and from the gym. Plus these days, foldable racks offer effortless storage capability with a pin system that anyone can operate.
5. Functionality:
Folding squat racks allows you to add other equipment to them, such as dip bars or pull up bars, which substantially increases the functionality. For people with a home gym you'd be hard pressed to find a similar piece of gym equipment that matches the functionality while also saves space.
Folding Squat Rack FAQs:
Are Folding Squat Racks Worth It?
Yes. A folding squat rack is definitely worth it if you're strapped for an area at your home or garage gym. With added functionality by adding certain equipment such as dip bars etc., you could get a lot out of one piece of equipment. There are really no drawbacks since they've become as strong as rigid squat racks.
What's A Good Price For A Folding Squat Rack?
Well, what exactly do you need from your squat rack? The more positive features the squat rack has, the less cost-effective it will become. More attachments, more strength, or better quality will all raise the price. That being said, you can expect to pay anything between $500 - $1300.
Which Folding Squat Racks Are The Best For A Home Or Garage Gym?
The best option will be the one that suits your needs best. For example, if you're an incredibly strong person, you might need to opt for one that has a high max load capacity.
On the other hand, if you're looking to do chest and leg work in small spaces without adequate wall space then a door-mounted rack could be a great choice. Finally, if your only concern is space, a folding wall mounted will be the best option.
What's The Best Folding Squat Rack For Low Ceilings?
When it comes to low ceilings, it's not just tall people who struggle. As mentioned in the size paragraph, you need to consider height. The best option for low ceilings would be the Fringe Sport's Retractable Power Rack. Also, make sure that wherever you place your rack leaves enough room for your head actually to rise above when doing pull ups.
How Do You Install A Folding Squat Rack?
Usually, by following the manufacturer's instructions, you can easily install a wall-mounted rack. However, if you are feeling brave, you can opt to DIY. It will be simple with very few tools, but some of the more complicated versions might take a bit more technical know-how.
Does A Folding Squat Rack Need To Be Bolted Down?
If you're speaking about the racks that are folding wall-mounted, then yes. That being said, some options like the MyRack from Force USA do not need to be bolted down as it is a freestanding rack. You get different versions online for sale, so make sure you understand your needs before ordering.
SUMMARY: WHICH FOLDING SQUAT RACK IS BEST?
Look, not everyone has the space to have a big and fancy permanent squat rack - and that's okay. But, you should still have the freedom to squat when you want to, bench when you want to, and do pull ups as well.
The folding squat racks grant you freedom of choice for exercises while not breaking the bank or the amount of space available. They are an excellent investment, but only if you purchase the right one.
Make sure you understand what your needs are before placing an order. Measure the area you have available, and do some research on which would fit your gym and lifestyle.
As a final recap, here are our top picks for folding squat racks:
- Best Overall: Force USA MyRack Folding Power Rack
- Best Budget: PRx Fold-In ONE Rack
- Best Premium: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Multi-Grip Bar
- Best For Small Spaces: Profile® ONE Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar
- Best For Budget on Amazon: Merax Wall Mount Folding Squat Rack
- Best For Low Ceilings: FringeSport Retractable Power Rack
- Best Wall Mounted Squat Rack: Tru Grit Foldable Wall-Mount Power Rack
- Best For CrossFit: Profile® PRO Squat Rack with Kipping Bar™
Kiel DiGiovanni
Author