Squatting is one of the foundations of training, and squat racks are incredibly versatile pieces of equipment. Pressing, isometrics, pull-ups and more are all exercises that you can perform using a squat rack — depending on which setup you have. As the fitness industry has grown, there have also been some brilliant innovations when it comes to squat racks. And one brand who has been at the top of the innovation game is Rogue Fitness.
Rogue Fitness makes a wide variety of squat racks, which can assist every lifting-based need. This is ideal for both public and home gym owners, but finding the right one can be tedious because it requires a lot of research — Rogue Fitness offers well over 20 power racks and over 10 squat stands.
Outside of variety, Rogue Fitness squat racks have a number of other positives going for them. First, they are made to last with quality materials that can withstand the heaviest beatings (they’re tested thoroughly). Second, a bunch of the Rogue Fitness racks can be customized with both colors and equipment packages, which can save you an extra step in purchasing more gear. Lastly, Rogue Fitness does an exceptional job at laying out their rack’s specs on their product pages, so no one is left in the dark.
Below, we’ve split some of the best Rogue Fitness squat racks into different categories. Need a simple squat stand for back squats, or do you need a fully built out monster rack? Either way, we have you covered.
Best Rogue Squat Racks
Best Rogue Squat Rack Overall
A full power rack is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment around. If you have adequate space to accommodate it, we think that this model is particularly hard to beat.
Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Made from 3×3” 11-gauge steel, this rack can easily support heavy lifts. With ample storage and space for a wide range of exercises, Rogue designed this rack with 5/8-inch hardware that’s compatible with an enormous number of Monster Lite attachments, so you can add variety to your workout with extra mounts, extension kits, and more.
Rogue RML-690C Monster Lite Power Rack 3.0
Along with a pull-up bar, band and storage pegs, this pick includes even more accessories such as two Monster Lite J-Cups with plastic inserts and two pin and pipe safeties. You can also choose to have your uprights numbered.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Best Rogue Squat Rack for the Money
The RE-3 Echo rack is a great value option. It may be smaller than many of the other racks on this list, but it still packs a whole lot of features into its frame.
Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack
Fabricated with the same 11-gauge steel as other more expensive models, the RE-3 is still quite robust for its price point. With two different pull-up bars, pegs for resistance bands, and optional pin pipe safeties, this frame packs it all in and leaves a minimal footprint. If you’re a recreational lifter who needs a power rack for casual workouts, then this power rack is a good start.
Rogue RE-3 Echo Power Rack
Compact but robust, the Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack is a great value rack that takes up minimal space and punches far above its weight in terms of functionality.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack
Best Rogue Power Rack
Power racks combine most everything you need for a training session into one station. You can do upper- and lower-body compound exercises, have plenty of storage for equipment, and utilize an array of accessory parts that enable a varietal training regimen.
Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Packed to the rafters with features, this squat rack is also incredibly sturdy. The spotting safety bars are tested to support really heavy weights, and the whole rack is covered by Rogue’s lifetime warranty. Plus, you can easily upgrade your rack with any of the compatible monster lite products, so you’ll be switching between front squats and pull-ups in no time.
Rogue RML-690C Monster Lite Power Rack 3.0
Along with a pull-up bar, band and storage pegs, this pick includes even more accessories such as two Monster Lite J-Cups with plastic inserts and two pin and pipe safeties. You can also choose to have your uprights numbered.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Best Rogue Folding Rack
Since many people struggle to find the room for a full power rack, this folding rack — which extends off the wall only 6’5” with both panels folded in — is a great alternative.
Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
Aside from the space, this patent pending design is also very durable. The heavy-duty hinges, 11-gauge steel, and SAE grade 5-bolt hardware mean that it is just as secure as many larger power racks. Plus, it features numbered uprights that make the transitions from squat to bench and back again super seamless.
Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
The Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack is a solution to small space training. If you’re lacking real estate, this rack can fold up and save you room when not in use.
Who Should Buy the Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
Best Rogue Squat Stand
Much smaller than their power rack counterparts, squat stands are more affordable but still offer much of the same functionality as power racks. While there are no extra add-ons, you will be able to squat, press, and max out your pull-ups just the same as you would on a power rack.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Weighing only 157 pounds, this stand can still support upwards of 1,000 pounds. Both sturdy and portable, the black zinc coated hardware will keep everything rust free for many years to come. This squat stand includes a pull-up bar for upper body pulling variety, along with Westside hole spacing to accurately adjust squat, bench, and rack pull heights. Plus, this rack is compatible with all of the other Rogue Monster Lite products.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Perfect for minimalists, the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand is simple and effective for squats, presses, and even pull-ups.
Who Should Buy the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Best Rogue Squat Rack with a Pull Up Bar
Many people purchasing a power rack focus on its functionality for squatting, while a lot of racks also come with pull-up bars. Many athletes consider pull-ups to be one of the best upper body exercises, and this pick makes it easy for you to squeeze some into your training session.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
This stand has many potential upgrades. You can add laser cut numbering into the 11-gauge steel uprights for easier training set ups, or add wheels to the base for extra mobility. Plus, you can slap on some spotting arms if you need extra assurance throughout your lifts, and customize the thickness of your pull-up bar.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Perfect for minimalists, the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand is simple and effective for squats, presses, and even pull-ups.
Who Should Buy the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Squatting
If you love squatting, you’re going to want a rack that allows you to adjust to all the different variations — box squats, front squats, with chains, overcoming isometrics, and more. The Rogue R-6 power rack is versatile enough to accommodate any squat setup in your training program.
Rogue R-6 Power Rack
When you’re under a heavy bar, feeling in control is a priority. Made with ultra-durable 2- x 3-inch 11-gauge steel and 5/8-inch bolts, the R-6 is very sturdy, and its heavy-duty spotting arms help you feel even more comfortable pushing your training to new heights. This product also comes with a lifetime warranty to ensure your squat schedule never falls off track.
Rogue R-6 Power Rack
A comprehensive option, this Rogue R-6 Power Rack is strong and packed with features. If you have the space, this rack has your squatting needs covered, and a lifetime warranty to boot.
Who Should Buy the Rogue R-6 Power Rack
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Small Spaces
This pick is a fantastic compromise for those lacking space, but still wanting the security of a power rack when lifting.
Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
While the floor footprint is 48 inches x 49 inches, the bulk of the rack is actually only 17 inches x 49 inches as only the two base bars on the floor cover the extra 31 inches. This gives you a lot of extra room compared to many other power racks on the market. The HR-2 can also store plates and bars — its smart design is ideal for anyone building out a small home gym in an apartment or corner of a garage.
Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
This rack is equipped with hardware in the back that allows for extra weight plate storage and a pull-up bar for extra back work.
Who Should Buy the Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Building a Garage Gym
If you’re committed to canceling your gym membership and expanding your Garage gym, this heavy-duty and versatile squat rack is the perfect foundation.
Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
For a home gym, you want security, versatility, and reasonable pricing. The RM-4 ticks all these boxes. It’s customizable for different heights and workout styles, and it’s built with heavy-duty 1-inch hardware that only has a 49 x 49-inch footprint. While it isn’t the cheapest rack on this list, it will last a lifetime if you care for it properly.
Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
Compact enough to leave space for vehicles, and functional enough to support high quality training, the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0 will make a great addition to any garage gym.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
What to Consider Before Buying a Rogue Squat Rack
Investing in a new squat rack is a pretty big deal. This piece of equipment will more than likely be the focal point of your home or garage gym, so getting the specs right and understanding them is incredibly important. Similar to Rogue Fitness’ barbells, the company does an exceptional job at breaking down the racks and stands’ products specs to help you easily understand what you’re getting. Here are the things you’ll want to look out for before hitting “purchase.”
Steel Gauge
In all of the power racks and squat stands reviewed, Rogue Fitness offers an 11-gauge steel construction. What does that mean? For steel and other metals, their gauges determine their thickness. Every metal will have its own formulation for calculating the gauge of the metal used (thickness), so Rogue Fitness’ 11-gauge steel is their way of demonstrating what you can expect with their metal’s thickness.
Model Number
Another unique feature Rogue Fitness offers with their power racks and squat stands is how they’re labeled and what these labels mean. If you glance over their racks and stands, then you’ll notice a lot of them have consistent names, and that’s for good reason. These names will often signify compatibility with other racks/stands with which the accessories will work.
A product’s footprint includes the dimensions of the power rack and squat stand. If you’re building a private or public gym, then paying careful attention to space can make or break your success. Some things to keep in mind are what else you’re trying to build around the rack, how high your ceilings are, and what pieces you might want to add to the gym in the future.
For example, if you’re building out a small garage gym, then you don’t want to invest in a huge power rack that takes up 90 percent of the garage, and then limits other pieces of equipment you might want to buy in the future. Space matters.
Training
While all of these racks accommodate squatting, some of them can also accommodate landmine movements, accommodating resistance with bands for powerlifting movements, dips, and more. If your training style is as versatile as some of these racks are, you’ll want to snag an option with all the bells and whistles. If you stick to the basic squats, presses, and pull-ups, you don’t need to be dishing out the big bucks for a fully decked-out power rack.
Budget
The more accommodation for exercise variety and attachments, the higher the price when it comes to these racks. For many people, being able to train the big 3 in the rack will seal the deal. However, if you use it all when you go to a public gym and you want to have it all in your home, you’re going to have to fork over a bigger chunk of change — just be prepared to drop up to $2,000 on some of the more versatile racks.
Weight
Many people don’t consider weight — especially if they are having someone set up their equipment for them. And to be fair, if you are putting your equipment in the garage or on the ground floor, this point isn’t as applicable to you. However, if you are on the second floor or higher, all of these racks weigh hundreds of pounds at a minimum, so you will have to consider how difficult it may be to get the rack upstairs without an elevator. Prepare to have help, and measure the width of your stairs to make sure you have enough room to bring a large rack up there.
Fixed or Movable
Some of these racks are bolted to the floor or the walls by design, while others are movable (though for some you may need several strong individuals to help you move them). Stability is not going to be affected either way, but for some, the ability to move the rack is important when it comes to developing their home gym space. Plan your layout prior to buying, so you know ahead of time if you need something that moves or folds.
Coaches and Athletes’ Thoughts On Rogue Racks and Stands
Zach Bartell — Owner of SoCal Powerlifting
“At SoCal Powerlifting we have four Rogue MLW-4 Monster Lite Wall Mount racks. Since the installation of these there have been few complaints. They are extremely durable and can handle a ton of tonnage without taking a beating. We have our racks bolted into our concrete walls and floors so stability has never been a concern. One issue we do seem to run into with these racks in particular is that their width is greater than a normal power rack or cage. We have had quite a few lifters go to rack the barbell to have the plates on the bar hit the rack first throwing off the lifters balance and making the rack that much more difficult.
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In the past, we have used multiple Rogue SML-1 Monster Lite squat stands. These are great if your space is limited and you want to have a convertible squat and bench station. These work best against a wall so they do not move when weight is racked after a set. As far as their quality goes, I have yet to run into a better squat stand. These are built with the same hardware as any other rack Rogue offers. The only downside of the Monster Lite Squat Stand is that the spotter arms are not included. This is the case for all of Rogue’s squat stands and rigs and does pad the price a bit.
All in all, Rogue provides top notch quality and the pros most definitely out weigh the cons. If you are in the market for a rack whether it is for your gym, or garage, Rogue will not disappoint.”
Rodrigo Manzo — Strength Coach & USAPL Powerlifter
“The gym I currently train at used Rogue Rigs and I used a Rogue Monster Rack for a year at one of my previous gyms. The Monster Rack is very stable and safe. It has many hole height options, which is more ideal and closer to combo rack options. Also, it looks great, and has plenty of space within the rack. The only issue is that it can only accommodate one person at a time.
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The Rogue Rigs I’ve used can accommodate multiple people and they allow for more exercise variations (pull-ups, split jerks, snatch balance, etc). The downsides with the rigs is there are less hole options (huge issue for shorter athletes), and they can shake if used by others when doing things like kipping pull-ups, and so forth.”
Rogue offers a wide range of equipment, from cardio to strength and even recovery goods. When it comes to their squat racks, the fact that most of these racks are modular and can be expanded allows for the flexibility to start small and grow as you progress in your training. With excellent customer service, quality manufacturing, and a variety of customization options, it’s clear why Rogue is a favorite in the fitness industry.
While there are still many other Rogue racks on the market, these ones top the list for versatility, space-saving, and functionality purposes. Do your research, check it against this list, and make sure we’ve found you a perfect fit before you commit. After all, we don’t want you spending money on a piece of equipment that may one day end up collecting dust.
Why do I need a squat rack?You don’t necessarily need a squat rack — some can do all their squatting by cleaning the bar up from the floor. This method will, however, limit your ability to progress as your squat will almost certainly be higher than your clean. In addition, you can use a squat rack for more than lower body work — you can work bench presses, pull-ups, and more on a squat rack which can increase the variety of your workouts. In the end, a squat rack is a luxury, not a necessity.
Racks seem too heavy and hard to move for my current situation — is there still a good option?There are still good options available, they just aren’t going to be the most versatile racks out there. There are some great racks that take up very minimal space and that are surprisingly light. If you really want to get creative, there are also some great homemade options.
I want a rack that can be expanded as I progress my training — is this possible?This is one of the best things about Rogue’s squat racks. Almost all of them are designed to be compatible with accessories, and thus, expandable as you progress. Rogue has a wide variety of accessory equipment that you can tack onto your base rack as you get stronger and want to incorporate more movements.
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Rogue Fitness makes a wide variety of squat racks, which can assist every lifting-based need. This is ideal for both public and home gym owners, but finding the right one can be tedious because it requires a lot of research — Rogue Fitness offers well over 20 power racks and over 10 squat stands.
Outside of variety, Rogue Fitness squat racks have a number of other positives going for them. First, they are made to last with quality materials that can withstand the heaviest beatings (they’re tested thoroughly). Second, a bunch of the Rogue Fitness racks can be customized with both colors and equipment packages, which can save you an extra step in purchasing more gear. Lastly, Rogue Fitness does an exceptional job at laying out their rack’s specs on their product pages, so no one is left in the dark.
Below, we’ve split some of the best Rogue Fitness squat racks into different categories. Need a simple squat stand for back squats, or do you need a fully built out monster rack? Either way, we have you covered.
Best Rogue Squat Racks
Best Rogue Squat Rack Overall
A full power rack is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment around. If you have adequate space to accommodate it, we think that this model is particularly hard to beat.
Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Made from 3×3” 11-gauge steel, this rack can easily support heavy lifts. With ample storage and space for a wide range of exercises, Rogue designed this rack with 5/8-inch hardware that’s compatible with an enormous number of Monster Lite attachments, so you can add variety to your workout with extra mounts, extension kits, and more.
Rogue RML-690C Monster Lite Power Rack 3.0
Along with a pull-up bar, band and storage pegs, this pick includes even more accessories such as two Monster Lite J-Cups with plastic inserts and two pin and pipe safeties. You can also choose to have your uprights numbered.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
- Trainees who want a really versatile power rack.
- Customers looking for a rack that has excellent storage options.
- Athletes looking for a high quality, stable rack.
- Buyers who are training in small spaces.
- Lifters on a tight budget.
- Anyone who wants a rack that’s easy to maneuver.
Best Rogue Squat Rack for the Money
The RE-3 Echo rack is a great value option. It may be smaller than many of the other racks on this list, but it still packs a whole lot of features into its frame.
Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack
Fabricated with the same 11-gauge steel as other more expensive models, the RE-3 is still quite robust for its price point. With two different pull-up bars, pegs for resistance bands, and optional pin pipe safeties, this frame packs it all in and leaves a minimal footprint. If you’re a recreational lifter who needs a power rack for casual workouts, then this power rack is a good start.
Rogue RE-3 Echo Power Rack
Compact but robust, the Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack is a great value rack that takes up minimal space and punches far above its weight in terms of functionality.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RE-3 Echo Rack
- Athletes on a tight budget.
- Customers who need a rack that takes up minimal space.
- Lifters who want a more comprehensive rack.
- Customers who want a rack that can be used to store equipment.
- Anyone who feels more comfortable lifting with a more spacious rack.
Best Rogue Power Rack
Power racks combine most everything you need for a training session into one station. You can do upper- and lower-body compound exercises, have plenty of storage for equipment, and utilize an array of accessory parts that enable a varietal training regimen.
Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
Packed to the rafters with features, this squat rack is also incredibly sturdy. The spotting safety bars are tested to support really heavy weights, and the whole rack is covered by Rogue’s lifetime warranty. Plus, you can easily upgrade your rack with any of the compatible monster lite products, so you’ll be switching between front squats and pull-ups in no time.
Rogue RML-690C Monster Lite Power Rack 3.0
Along with a pull-up bar, band and storage pegs, this pick includes even more accessories such as two Monster Lite J-Cups with plastic inserts and two pin and pipe safeties. You can also choose to have your uprights numbered.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RML-690C Power Rack 3.0
- Athletes looking for a comprehensive rack that can accomodate most movements.
- Consumers with plenty of space available for exercise equipment.
- Trainees who want to be able to use bands for resistance and lifts.
- Customers who need a rack they can easily maneuver.
- Customers looking for a rack that takes up less space.
- Those who want a simple rack that is easy to set up.
Best Rogue Folding Rack
Since many people struggle to find the room for a full power rack, this folding rack — which extends off the wall only 6’5” with both panels folded in — is a great alternative.
Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
Aside from the space, this patent pending design is also very durable. The heavy-duty hinges, 11-gauge steel, and SAE grade 5-bolt hardware mean that it is just as secure as many larger power racks. Plus, it features numbered uprights that make the transitions from squat to bench and back again super seamless.
Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
The Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack is a solution to small space training. If you’re lacking real estate, this rack can fold up and save you room when not in use.
Who Should Buy the Monster Lite RML-390FULLW Folding Rack
- Consumers with a small space who need a compact rack.
- Anyone looking for a very stable, fixed rack.
- Athletes who want a rack with Westside hole spacing for bench presses.
- Lifters looking for a cost-effective squat rack for home.
- Renters who want a rack that doesn’t require drilling into walls to set up.
- People who need a rack that they can easily move around their space.
Best Rogue Squat Stand
Much smaller than their power rack counterparts, squat stands are more affordable but still offer much of the same functionality as power racks. While there are no extra add-ons, you will be able to squat, press, and max out your pull-ups just the same as you would on a power rack.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Weighing only 157 pounds, this stand can still support upwards of 1,000 pounds. Both sturdy and portable, the black zinc coated hardware will keep everything rust free for many years to come. This squat stand includes a pull-up bar for upper body pulling variety, along with Westside hole spacing to accurately adjust squat, bench, and rack pull heights. Plus, this rack is compatible with all of the other Rogue Monster Lite products.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Perfect for minimalists, the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand is simple and effective for squats, presses, and even pull-ups.
Who Should Buy the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
- Trainees looking for a simple and quality squat stand.
- Consumers who need their rack to be portable.
- Athletes looking for a cost-effective option.
- Those who prefer a fixed squat rack for greater stability.
- Lifters looking for a rack with more training options.
- Customers who need a rack they can use for equipment storage.
Best Rogue Squat Rack with a Pull Up Bar
Many people purchasing a power rack focus on its functionality for squatting, while a lot of racks also come with pull-up bars. Many athletes consider pull-ups to be one of the best upper body exercises, and this pick makes it easy for you to squeeze some into your training session.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
This stand has many potential upgrades. You can add laser cut numbering into the 11-gauge steel uprights for easier training set ups, or add wheels to the base for extra mobility. Plus, you can slap on some spotting arms if you need extra assurance throughout your lifts, and customize the thickness of your pull-up bar.
Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
Perfect for minimalists, the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand is simple and effective for squats, presses, and even pull-ups.
Who Should Buy the Rogue SML-2C Squat Stand
- Anyone who needs a rack that also functions well for pull-ups.
- Customers who are looking for a cost-effective option.
- Lifters who need a rack they can easily maneuver.
- People looking for a rack with a smaller footprint.
- Buyers who need a bolted rack for extra stability.
- People who want a rack that has storage space for equipment.
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Squatting
If you love squatting, you’re going to want a rack that allows you to adjust to all the different variations — box squats, front squats, with chains, overcoming isometrics, and more. The Rogue R-6 power rack is versatile enough to accommodate any squat setup in your training program.
Rogue R-6 Power Rack
When you’re under a heavy bar, feeling in control is a priority. Made with ultra-durable 2- x 3-inch 11-gauge steel and 5/8-inch bolts, the R-6 is very sturdy, and its heavy-duty spotting arms help you feel even more comfortable pushing your training to new heights. This product also comes with a lifetime warranty to ensure your squat schedule never falls off track.
Rogue R-6 Power Rack
A comprehensive option, this Rogue R-6 Power Rack is strong and packed with features. If you have the space, this rack has your squatting needs covered, and a lifetime warranty to boot.
Who Should Buy the Rogue R-6 Power Rack
- Athletes who need a versatile rack that allows for a variety of exercises.
- Lifters who want a rack with a lot of pin positions designed to help with bench presses.
- Buyers looking for an incredibly stable rack.
- Anyone who needs a rack with a small spatial footprint.
- Customers looking for a rack that they can easily maneuver.
- People who need a cost-effective squat rack.
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Small Spaces
This pick is a fantastic compromise for those lacking space, but still wanting the security of a power rack when lifting.
Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
While the floor footprint is 48 inches x 49 inches, the bulk of the rack is actually only 17 inches x 49 inches as only the two base bars on the floor cover the extra 31 inches. This gives you a lot of extra room compared to many other power racks on the market. The HR-2 can also store plates and bars — its smart design is ideal for anyone building out a small home gym in an apartment or corner of a garage.
Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
This rack is equipped with hardware in the back that allows for extra weight plate storage and a pull-up bar for extra back work.
Who Should Buy the Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
- Trainees looking for a rack with a minimal footprint.
- Athletes who want a rack with Westside hole patterns to help with bench presses.
- Anyone looking for a rack with an easy-to-use safety set for lifting.
- Lifters looking for a fixed rack that offers greater stability.
- Those who prefer a rack with extra space to lift while using the safety arms.
- Customers who prefer a rack with a separate pull-up bar that enables supersets.
Best Rogue Squat Rack for Building a Garage Gym
If you’re committed to canceling your gym membership and expanding your Garage gym, this heavy-duty and versatile squat rack is the perfect foundation.
Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
For a home gym, you want security, versatility, and reasonable pricing. The RM-4 ticks all these boxes. It’s customizable for different heights and workout styles, and it’s built with heavy-duty 1-inch hardware that only has a 49 x 49-inch footprint. While it isn’t the cheapest rack on this list, it will last a lifetime if you care for it properly.
Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
Compact enough to leave space for vehicles, and functional enough to support high quality training, the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0 will make a great addition to any garage gym.
Who Should Buy the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
- Taller lifters who need a rack with extra head room.
- Trainees looking for a rack that allows them to use bands for accommodating resistance.
- Those who want a rack that can also store equipment when not in use.
- Buyers looking for a rack they can easily move around their space.
- Athletes who want a rack that doesn’t need to be bolted to the floor.
What to Consider Before Buying a Rogue Squat Rack
Investing in a new squat rack is a pretty big deal. This piece of equipment will more than likely be the focal point of your home or garage gym, so getting the specs right and understanding them is incredibly important. Similar to Rogue Fitness’ barbells, the company does an exceptional job at breaking down the racks and stands’ products specs to help you easily understand what you’re getting. Here are the things you’ll want to look out for before hitting “purchase.”
Steel Gauge
In all of the power racks and squat stands reviewed, Rogue Fitness offers an 11-gauge steel construction. What does that mean? For steel and other metals, their gauges determine their thickness. Every metal will have its own formulation for calculating the gauge of the metal used (thickness), so Rogue Fitness’ 11-gauge steel is their way of demonstrating what you can expect with their metal’s thickness.
Model Number
Another unique feature Rogue Fitness offers with their power racks and squat stands is how they’re labeled and what these labels mean. If you glance over their racks and stands, then you’ll notice a lot of them have consistent names, and that’s for good reason. These names will often signify compatibility with other racks/stands with which the accessories will work.
A product’s footprint includes the dimensions of the power rack and squat stand. If you’re building a private or public gym, then paying careful attention to space can make or break your success. Some things to keep in mind are what else you’re trying to build around the rack, how high your ceilings are, and what pieces you might want to add to the gym in the future.
For example, if you’re building out a small garage gym, then you don’t want to invest in a huge power rack that takes up 90 percent of the garage, and then limits other pieces of equipment you might want to buy in the future. Space matters.
Training
While all of these racks accommodate squatting, some of them can also accommodate landmine movements, accommodating resistance with bands for powerlifting movements, dips, and more. If your training style is as versatile as some of these racks are, you’ll want to snag an option with all the bells and whistles. If you stick to the basic squats, presses, and pull-ups, you don’t need to be dishing out the big bucks for a fully decked-out power rack.
Budget
The more accommodation for exercise variety and attachments, the higher the price when it comes to these racks. For many people, being able to train the big 3 in the rack will seal the deal. However, if you use it all when you go to a public gym and you want to have it all in your home, you’re going to have to fork over a bigger chunk of change — just be prepared to drop up to $2,000 on some of the more versatile racks.
Weight
Many people don’t consider weight — especially if they are having someone set up their equipment for them. And to be fair, if you are putting your equipment in the garage or on the ground floor, this point isn’t as applicable to you. However, if you are on the second floor or higher, all of these racks weigh hundreds of pounds at a minimum, so you will have to consider how difficult it may be to get the rack upstairs without an elevator. Prepare to have help, and measure the width of your stairs to make sure you have enough room to bring a large rack up there.
Fixed or Movable
Some of these racks are bolted to the floor or the walls by design, while others are movable (though for some you may need several strong individuals to help you move them). Stability is not going to be affected either way, but for some, the ability to move the rack is important when it comes to developing their home gym space. Plan your layout prior to buying, so you know ahead of time if you need something that moves or folds.
Coaches and Athletes’ Thoughts On Rogue Racks and Stands
Zach Bartell — Owner of SoCal Powerlifting
“At SoCal Powerlifting we have four Rogue MLW-4 Monster Lite Wall Mount racks. Since the installation of these there have been few complaints. They are extremely durable and can handle a ton of tonnage without taking a beating. We have our racks bolted into our concrete walls and floors so stability has never been a concern. One issue we do seem to run into with these racks in particular is that their width is greater than a normal power rack or cage. We have had quite a few lifters go to rack the barbell to have the plates on the bar hit the rack first throwing off the lifters balance and making the rack that much more difficult.
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In the past, we have used multiple Rogue SML-1 Monster Lite squat stands. These are great if your space is limited and you want to have a convertible squat and bench station. These work best against a wall so they do not move when weight is racked after a set. As far as their quality goes, I have yet to run into a better squat stand. These are built with the same hardware as any other rack Rogue offers. The only downside of the Monster Lite Squat Stand is that the spotter arms are not included. This is the case for all of Rogue’s squat stands and rigs and does pad the price a bit.
All in all, Rogue provides top notch quality and the pros most definitely out weigh the cons. If you are in the market for a rack whether it is for your gym, or garage, Rogue will not disappoint.”
Rodrigo Manzo — Strength Coach & USAPL Powerlifter
“The gym I currently train at used Rogue Rigs and I used a Rogue Monster Rack for a year at one of my previous gyms. The Monster Rack is very stable and safe. It has many hole height options, which is more ideal and closer to combo rack options. Also, it looks great, and has plenty of space within the rack. The only issue is that it can only accommodate one person at a time.
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The Rogue Rigs I’ve used can accommodate multiple people and they allow for more exercise variations (pull-ups, split jerks, snatch balance, etc). The downsides with the rigs is there are less hole options (huge issue for shorter athletes), and they can shake if used by others when doing things like kipping pull-ups, and so forth.”
Rogue offers a wide range of equipment, from cardio to strength and even recovery goods. When it comes to their squat racks, the fact that most of these racks are modular and can be expanded allows for the flexibility to start small and grow as you progress in your training. With excellent customer service, quality manufacturing, and a variety of customization options, it’s clear why Rogue is a favorite in the fitness industry.
While there are still many other Rogue racks on the market, these ones top the list for versatility, space-saving, and functionality purposes. Do your research, check it against this list, and make sure we’ve found you a perfect fit before you commit. After all, we don’t want you spending money on a piece of equipment that may one day end up collecting dust.
Why do I need a squat rack?You don’t necessarily need a squat rack — some can do all their squatting by cleaning the bar up from the floor. This method will, however, limit your ability to progress as your squat will almost certainly be higher than your clean. In addition, you can use a squat rack for more than lower body work — you can work bench presses, pull-ups, and more on a squat rack which can increase the variety of your workouts. In the end, a squat rack is a luxury, not a necessity.
Racks seem too heavy and hard to move for my current situation — is there still a good option?There are still good options available, they just aren’t going to be the most versatile racks out there. There are some great racks that take up very minimal space and that are surprisingly light. If you really want to get creative, there are also some great homemade options.
I want a rack that can be expanded as I progress my training — is this possible?This is one of the best things about Rogue’s squat racks. Almost all of them are designed to be compatible with accessories, and thus, expandable as you progress. Rogue has a wide variety of accessory equipment that you can tack onto your base rack as you get stronger and want to incorporate more movements.
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