What Is Cerakote? Why Is It Used On Barbells?
Let’s start with the pronunciation - ser-uh-koht.
You may have heard of cerakote but have no clue what it means, what it is, or why it is important when talking about gym equipment.
Cerakote History
Cerakote was invented in 1984 by NIC Industries as a high-end ceramic polymer coating to protect expensive and important items from rust - like a hunter needing their gun outside in the elements for extended periods of time. Or to have durable, badass looking barbells.
Who started making cerakote barbells?
To our knowledge, the first time cerakote was seen incorporated into gym equipment was thanks to American Barbell and their California Bar, circa early 2017. Rogue was quick to follow the trend due to popularity, which paved the way for more manufacturers to follow suit.
What are the benefits of a cerakote finish on barbells?
The main benefits are the corrosion resistance and many dazzling colors that are offered. One of the most durable coatings available, cerakote provides your favorite colors while assisting with longevity and durability - so long as you take proper care of your equipment.
Are there any negatives of cerakote for weightlifting?
As with anything, there is always nuance when determining what is “best” as it will vary greatly from person to person depending on their priorities and needs, especially in the context of weightlifting where equipment preferences can significantly impact performance. That’s the beauty of owning your gym - you can choose whatever you want. Most will agree the biggest detriment with cerakote barbells are that they can be easily scratched when in direct contact with metal. Plastic lined J-Hooks or J-Cups are highly recommended (more of a necessity, unless you truly don't care). These sleeves will also scuff with use, but this is less of a concern for the dedicated weightlifter who values durability in their home gym equipment.
PROs & CONs List.
Some reviews may argue that the finishings can be inconsistent across manufacturers, but I’d argue this - isn’t every product? That’s what different manufacturers are for, they offer different quality and finishings, which is for the customer to decide their preference.
Other reviews say that cerakote barbells are expensive. Expensive compared to what? Cerakote barbells cost no more than others, and are less expensive than needle bearing barbells. In fact, many of our cerakote barbells cost less than our Olympic steel and needle-bearing barbells.
NIC salt chamber test - This test shows how much more resistant cerakote is to rust than other materials.
How can the feel of the cerakote barbell be listed as both a pro and con?
I’m glad you asked. Remember that thing I said about nuance? The goal is to determine what is best for you and your goals, whether it's for casual lifting or competitive powerlifting. Many users are torn on the way the cerakote finishing “changes” the feel of the barbell.
Some will tell you that cerakote barbells create more of a deposition of material on the bar, allowing for a better feel in your hand. This review states that while using a cerakote barbell, crossfit lifters and powerlifters both experienced a very true, tacky grip, while also holding chalk very well. They experienced no issues with the bar security while placed on their back for squats.
Several styles and colors of cerakote barbells we have available at VFP.
Others will say that the coating is a detriment to the feel of connection between your hands and the bar, particularly in the world of powerlifting where the feel of the knurl is paramount. I have read reviews that go as far as saying it is distracting and ruins the knurling, a crucial factor for athletes focusing on Olympic lifting techniques.
The preferred feeling of a barbell is extremely subjective, and will vary from user to user. If you are an enthusiast that vehemently values the feel of true steel knurling in your hands over enhanced looks and corrosion resistance, then cerakote probably isn't ideal for you.
Performing RDL's with Blue Cerakote Barbell.
Did You Know?
Knurling is pressed into the steel with an extremely high pressure industrial machine that rolls over it. It is NOT a cutting operation, although the sharp knurling on some power bars that appear shaven away may convince you otherwise – not the case. Cutting it would weaken the bar integrity.
Why/how does cerakote change the feel of the barbell?
Keep in mind that cerakote is a coating that must be applied AFTER the knurling is pressed into the steel of a bar. Cerakote then partially fills in the grooves of the knurling, making the bar a bit smoother and slightly less grippy. The cerakote layer is always applied after the lathe presses the knurling, ensuring a grip that meets powerlifting standards. The amount that the coating fills is significant enough that fitness enthusiasts may feel the difference between a coated barbell compared to a bare steel or stainless steel bar.
Cerakote is the second most durable applied barbell finishes available (next to hard chrome) and the greatest corrosion resistant option available. Some manufacturers do a better job when applying the powder coat than others, which has led to the plethora of differing reviews you may see online. USA manufacturers tend to do a better job applying the cerakote on barbells, based on experience and reviews.
Final thoughts on cerakote barbells
My advice is that everyone should try at least one cerakote barbell in their training lifetime. Choose a color that resonates with you, and take good care of it. Store your bar on UHMW plastic J-Hooks or J-Cups, and you won’t have to worry about premature damage to your barbell, ensuring it remains a vital part of your home or commercial Olympic weightlifting/powerlifting setup. If you don't love it, at least you know it won't rust for a long time and it looks cool, making a perfect option for any commercial or garage gym.
Being used on firearms for many years, we know that a little regular abrasion does not wear off the cerakote - but if you want to do some damage, go ahead and slam the bar as hard as you can directly against some metal.
Interested in purchasing your own cerakote barbell? Click HERE to choose from a plethora of colorful multipurpose cerakote barbells made right here in the USA!
If you're looking for a cerakote bar with more aggressive knurling, try our Next Gen Bearing Bar.
How to clean & take care of your cerakote barbell
Cerakote barbell care is pretty much the same as chrome, black zinc, or stainless steel barbells - but with attention to detail, cerakote can last even longer even under heavy weightlifting use. Cerakote in the knurling of a weightlifting bar can make it more difficult to completely remove chalk buildup, and may require extra care. The textured feel can also make this process a little more time consuming, but the beauty of the barbell is worth the few extra minutes.
You should brush any dead skin or chalk from the knurling with a nylon brush to maintain the optimal grip for Olympic weightlifting. Wiping your bar down with a very light coating of oil should not be necessary, but it definitely doesn’t hurt, especially after a heavy powerlifting session. Oil is mainly necessary for black oxide and for any bar where scratches are appearing or the coating is wearing off, critical for maintaining the performance of your bar Olympic bar.
Cerakote Barbell Cleaning Steps
- Brush and scrub the barbell shaft with nylon bristle brush to loosen material that has been packed into the knurling. Use rubbing alcohol for excessive buildup.
- Add lubricant (only needed once every six months) apply 3-in-1 oil in streaks along the entire shaft of the barbell.
- Work oil in with nylon brush by scrubbing the barbell back and forth. Work in smaller sections at a time - work slow and focus on each area.
- Use an old rag to run it along the shaft of the barbell and wipe off loosened build up, oil, and chalk.
- Use a clean microfiber towel on the shaft for the final touches.
