What Are Bumper Plates? Everything You Need to Know!

If you’re a gym-goer or fitness enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of bumper plates before. But what are bumper plates? And why do people use them?

Are you tired of damaging floors and equipment when lifting weights? Well, these weights are designed to be dropped, making them essential for exercises like the snatch and clean and jerk. 

But why stop there? Let’s dive deeper into the world of bumper plates and answer all your burning questions.

Bumper plates are like the superheroes of weightlifting equipment. Made of dense rubber, they save the day by allowing you to drop the weight without causing damage to the floor or the plates themselves. 

These standardized weight plates come in a range of sizes and are ideal for weightlifting and powerlifting exercises.

They’re not just awesome; they’re essential for exercises that require you to drop the weight like a bad habit. Without bumper plates, you’d have to control the weight during the eccentric portion of the lift, which could be dangerous during certain lifts — particularly in Olympic lifting.

First things first, bumper plates are designed to bounce. That’s right. They’re like the Tigger of weight plates. This bounce can be especially useful in Olympic lifts, where you need to drop the weight quickly and safely.

Unlike regular weight plates, bumper plates are designed to be dropped without causing damage to the floor, equipment, or yourself. Bumper plates are made of a forgiving material that can absorb the impact.

Bumper plates come in three main materials: rubber, urethane, and crumb rubber. Each has its own pros and cons, so let’s dive in, shall we?

Rubber Bumper Plates are the classic choice. They’re affordable, durable, and they typically bounce like a ballerina. The downside? They can sometimes have a bit of a funky smell, which typically dissipates within a few days. But hey, if you’re into that kind of thing, who am I to judge?

Rubber Bumper Plates are perfect for the average home gym owner. Functional, affordable, and effective.

Urethane plates are like the Kardashians of bumper plates – they’re fancy, they’re expensive, and synthetic always on trend. But they’re also accurate in weight and longer lasting than rubber plates, making them a great choice for lifts that require stability. Urethane Bumper Plates usually have standardized sizing and are resistant to abrasions and sunlight.

Urethane Bumper Plates are ideal for home gym lifters planning to compete or looking for one set of plates to last a lifetime.

Crumb rubber plates are like the crunchy granola hippie cousin of bumper plates. They’re eco-friendly, made from recycled rubber, and they won’t break the bank. But they can have a bit of a rubbery aroma and may not be as durable or accurate as their rubber or urethane counterparts.

Crumb Rubber Bumper Plates are affordable and effective for protecting your floors.

Bumper plates come in standardized sizes, ranging from 10 to 55 pounds. These standardized sizes allow you to easily and accurately track your progress and ensure you’re using the correct weight for your training.

When it comes to choosing bumper plates, it’s like picking your favorite ice cream flavor – there are so many options to consider! Think about your budget, your fitness goals, and the space you have available.

To keep your bumper plates in top condition, it’s essential to care for them properly. After each use, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any sweat or debris. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the rubber. Lastly, store your plates on a Bumper Plate and Bar Tree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping or cracking.

You can check out our full guide on How to Clean Bumper Plates here.

In conclusion, bumper plates are the way to go if you want to drop weight without causing damage. 

They’re made of dense rubber and come in standardized sizes, making them ideal for a range of exercises. With the right care and use, bumper plates can last for years and help you achieve your fitness goals. So go ahead, lift heavy, and drop those weights like a BoS!