Are Cheap Bumper Plates Too Thick for Heavy Squats

1 week, 4 days ago Affordable Home Gym Builds
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MidwestMike Guest
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Apr 05, 2026 11:47

I am wondering if these cheap bumper plates are too thick for heavy squats in my garage gym. I have a set of the economy bumpers from a local shop in Illinois and I have noticed that I am almost running out of room on the sleeves of my barbell.

I am not a world class lifter but I am moving enough weight that it is becoming an issue. I do not want to have to buy a new bar just to fit more plates on. I am thinking about switching some of my heavier plates to iron or thin competition bumpers.

Have any of you had this problem with budget bumper plates? I love the durability but the width is a real downside. I would love to hear how you manage your bar space when you are lifting heavy with thick plates.

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