If you’re looking for easier to open weight clamps that hold your weights on your Oly barbells or dumbbells, I might have a solution. I’m talking about the Clout Fitness Classic Quick Release Olympic Barbell Clamps. I use them daily.
After owning about a million barbell collars (clamps), and suffering from arthritis in my hands, I had problems opening many of my quick release clamps. The ones that hold the tightest are often the hardest to open, and for some of us, that can be a challenge.
So for about a year, I tried various options, and finally found a recommendation on Reddit – the (very long named) Clout Fitness Olympic Barbell Clamps Collars Quick Release Pair of Locking Weight Clips. They were highly rated by over 20,000 users, reasonably priced, and they came in a variety of colors, so I ordered a pair.
They turned out to be just the ticket, so I ordered a second pair so I’d have two for each dumbbell. They do take a little hand strength, but they’re pretty manageable (if you need something even easier on your hands, I suggest the Titan Fitness Twistlock Collars – review on the way!). I put the Clout Fitness on and take them off without struggling.
Do these live up to the manufacturer’s claims?
According to Clout Fitness, “The quick release lever makes it quick and easy to swap out weights”, and that’s very true. They offer an “oversized latch design”, and the latch is larger than many, making it easy to open. The last claim I want to address is “they deliver unrivaled holding power, ensuring no rattling or sliding plates”, but while you can put them on to avoid rattling, if you use these with heavy weights, you may experience some sliding.
Who are they for?
People who want easier to open barbell collars
Those who want a wider color selection
Those looking for an under-$20 barbell color
Who are these not for?
People looking for ultimate hold from their clamps
People who want clamps for standard size bars
My conclusion
The Clout Fitness Olympic Barbell Collars are the perfect combination of easy-to-open and hold for your Olympic weight plates. I find they’re easier to open than most clamps, so ideal for those with weaker hands or arthritis. They’re also very reasonably priced, always a plus, lightweight, and in case you’re looking for color options, they’ve got ’em.
Do I recommend them? If you’re looking for easy-on, easy-off barbell clamps with no major hand strength required, then yes – that’s why I use them. If you have strong hands and are looking for ultimate hold, you might have a look at our review of the Lock-Jaw Metal Barbell Collars.
Please note: As an Amazon affiliate, I get a small commission if you click the links in my reviews – it doesn’t cost you anything extra.