If you haven’t spent any time on the Rogue Fitness site, then you may not know that there are a ton of racks and rigs to choose from. Colors, sizes and configurations get overwhelming quick. But don’t you fret because we sat down and took the tangled list of items and broke it down into easy to understand sections. So if you’re looking for the best Rogue rack for you, this buying guide is where it’s at.
I’m going to go ahead and suggest you use the handy table of contents if you’re looking for a specific type of rack. Whether you’re ready to bite the bullet and get yourself a home gym setup or you’re opening up a CrossFit gym and need some equipment, this guide is for you. This list is long so buckle up and enjoy our guide to the best Rogue rack!
Table of Contents
Part 1: The Rogue Lingo Breakdown
You can’t argue with the fact that Rogue offers a ton of options, all of which are made in the U.S. In order to better understand what they offer and make an informed purchase, we first break down the Rogue product language. This detailed section starts with steel and moves into the differences between rigs and racks.
The Different Steel Categories
The thickness of steel used for a Rogue product is easily identified by the product name. Rogue has three main steel categories:
- Monster
- Monster Lite
- Infinity
Each steel category has a specific thickness of steel and hardware used. They also have a fourth steel category called their Echo series but this option isn’t available for most of their equipment. Regardless of the steel category, each piece of steel is a standard 11-gauge steel.
#1: Monster Series
The Monster series is Rogue’s biggest and baddest steel option Rogue offers. Monster series steel is:
- 3×3″ tube
- 11-gauge steel
- 1″ hardware
Monster series color options:
Rogue’s monster series steel comes in Bright Blue, Bright Green, Burnt Orange, Dark Blue, Dark Red, Gun Metal, Desert Tan, Light Gray, Rogue Red, Satin Black, Satin Clear and White.
#2: Monster Lite Series
The only difference from the Monster to the Monster Lite series is the hardware sizing.
- 3×3″ tube
- 11 gauge steel
- 0.625″ hardware
Monster Lite series color options:
Rogue’s monster series steel comes in Bright Blue, Bright Green, Burnt Orange, Dark Blue, Dark Red, Gun Metal, Desert Tan, Light Gray, Rogue Red, Satin Black, Satin Clear and White.
#3: Infinity Series
This is one of Rogue’s more popular steel series as it still offers the 11-gauge steel but at a lower price point.
- 2×3″ tube
- 11 gauge steel
- 0.625″ hardware
#4: Echo Series
This option isn’t available for most of the Rogue rigs and racks these days but there are a few still using it.
- 2×2″ tube
- 11 gauge steel
- 0.5″ hardware
Rig, Rack, Stands Etc. – What is What?
Rogue Fitness talks about rigs, racks, wall mounts and stands on their site. But are all of those words interchangeable? Absolutely not. We explain what sets each piece of equipment apart in the descriptions below. Know that some words may end up being used together when talking about a specific piece of Rogue equipment though.
What is a rig?
At the most basic level, a rig is a frame that can be configured any number of ways to fit your workout needs. Having that customization aspect to it makes rigs a really appealing option for many. The fact that you can do a huge number of different exercises, all stemming from the same piece of equipment is pretty nice. Not to mention, rigs come in a bunch of sizes so they can fit small to extra large spaces.
The only negative that may have you reconsidering a rig (other than size for a very small space), is the fact that rigs need to be mounted into the floor. If your space doesn’t allow for you to screw the rig to the floor, then you may need to consider another option.
Whether you look at it as a pro or con, rigs sit closer together than racks and therefore don’t provide as much privacy. But for coaching, it allows you to monitor a group in a smaller space which may be ideal.
What is a rack?
Racks are what you usually see in a weight room. This is the equipment you want if you’re moving and lifting heavy numbers on the bar regularly. The rack gives you the space you need for lifts. They usually have the option for plate storage right there on the rack too. Unlike the rig, a rack is meant for more specific purposes and doesn’t have the flexibility to be made into other configurations. Currently all of Rogue’s racks have a pull-up bar. Rogue carries power racks and half racks.
When comparing Rogue’s power racks to squat stands, the main difference comes down to how you can bail out of a lift. In a power rack, you can potentially drop the weight to one of the lower horizontal bars whereas in a squat rack you have to bail it to the floor. But Rogue offers Safety Spotter attachments that can add horizontal bars to your squat stand to assist with bailing.
What is a wall mount?
The name says it all for this one. A wall mount is a sibling of the rig set up, but with one side attached to a wall. This option gives you more floor space while still having pull up and squat stand access. Rogue offers some wall mounts that can be folded against the wall when you finish a workout.
Be mindful that some of the wall mount options do NOT include the wall mount hardware and may have to be purchased separately.
What is a squat stand?
A squat stand isn’t as bulky as a power rack but that also means it’s not as solid or structurally sound for those heavy lifts. It takes up less room, costs less and almost all Rogue squat stands include a pull-up bar. If you’re worried about dropping a heavy lift, Rogue offers Safety Spotter accessories that can attach to the squat stand.
A big distinction with squat stands is that not all squat stands need to be mounted to a floor or wall. This can be a big factor for someone unable to make large holes in the ground or wall.
Part 2: The Products Breakdown
Now that we know the basics, let’s dive into the Rogue products to help you figure out the best Rogue rack for you and your needs.
Rigs
Rogue is a major sponsor of a lot of CrossFit events like the CrossFit Games. During the CrossFit Games you are able to see first hand how impressive and durable some of Rogue’s rigs are. But don’t think that they are just for competition level athletes. There is a rig out there for you as well!
- Best Rogue rig overall: Monster Lite Rig 2.0
- Best Rogue rig for the money: Rogue V2 Castro Rig
- Best Rogue rig for an organized look: Rogue Monster Wingspan Rig
- Best Rogue rig for backyard gym: Rogue V2 Castro Rig
- Best Rogue rig for CrossFit gym: Monster Lite Rig 2.0
Best Rogue Rig Overall: Monster Lite Rig 2.0
If you’re looking for a rig for your CrossFit gym or you have a small training business, the Monster Lite Rig 2.0 is an overall great option. These rigs can be as short as 10 feet for a smaller space or as long as 24 feet if you have the room. Plus, you can choose from a ton of color options to fit your branding needs.
What makes these rigs great is they are sturdy and allow for a lot of people to use it at one time. You can bench, squat, practice chest to bars, or work on your wall balls (with an added attachment) all on this rig. The number of workout combinations are endless and its quality craftsmanship makes it worth the price.
With the Standard Edition of the fully redesigned Rogue Monster Lite Rig 2.0, we’ve introduced several key new features, including 3×3″ beams across the top for an increased stiffness, 2″ hole spacing on the outside of the uprights (allowing more attachment options), and single pull-up bars for both the 4′ and 6′ sections.
Best Rig for the Money: Rogue V2 Castro Rig
The Rogue V2 Castro rig is the lowest priced rig that Rogue currently offers but don’t begin to think that they skimped on this rig. The V2 Castro rig is designed to be able to take on a huge number of exercises for your training needs. Standing taller at 15′ allows for rope climbs as well as wall ball mounts (accessory sold separately).
From pull-ups to squats, bench work, ropes climbs, and everything in between, the V2’s 15-foot, 3×3” 11-gauge steel uprights offer unyielding strength, with additional 3×3” beams included at the top of the rig for added stability.
Best Rig for the Organized Look: Rogue Monster Wingspan Rig
Maybe you are looking for a one stop shop. Something that allows you to lift, practice some pull-ups and also has a place for all of your gym equipment to go. If you don’t want the hassle of trying to figure out where to put your barbells, plates and whatever other equipment you may have the Rogue Monster Wingspan rig is for you.
This fully customizable rig allows you to purchase as many add-ons as your organized self needs. Included in the package is a single pull-up bar, Monster 43” Strap Safeties and band pegs.
The Monster Wingspan Rig is a dynamic, all-in-one unit that combines a standard Rogue RM-4 Power Rack with a fully customizable Mass Storage System.
Best Rig for Your Backyard Gym: V2 Castro rig
Some of us are just trying to get fit at home and don’t have the added benefit of a garage or basement to set up shop. That’s why the V2 Castro rig is so nice! Because the rig is taller, you can’t fit it into most home garages or basements anyway. But Rogue delivered a setup that creates a custom gym experience, right in your backyard.
Make note that this rig does have to be bolted to the floor. So if you don’t already have a spot available (like a cement driveway), then you may have to pour a small cement pad.
From pull-ups to squats, bench work, ropes climbs, and everything in between, the V2’s 15-foot, 3×3” 11-gauge steel uprights offer unyielding strength, with additional 3×3” beams included at the top of the rig for added stability.
Best Rig for CrossFit Gym: Monster Lite rig 2.0
Basically everything that makes this the best Rogue rig overall, makes it the best rig for a CrossFit gym. A class could work on back squats during the strength portion of a workout and then move into a WOD involving toes to bar. For both sections of the class, this rig would work! The rig is a solid piece of equipment, built to last the daily beating from multiple classes.
With the Standard Edition of the fully redesigned Rogue Monster Lite Rig 2.0, we’ve introduced several key new features, including 3×3″ beams across the top for an increased stiffness, 2″ hole spacing on the outside of the uprights (allowing more attachment options), and single pull-up bars for both the 4′ and 6′ sections.
Racks
Don’t let the long list of rack possibilities overwhelm you. Fact of the matter is, Rogue makes great equipment. So if you don’t have a particular size requirement or budget in mind, you won’t go wrong by just choosing the best Rogue rack that looks cool to you.
- Best Rogue power rack overall: Rogue RML-490 Power Rack
- Best Rogue half rack overall: Rogue HR-2 Half Rack
- Best Rogue flat foot rack: RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack
- Best Rogue rack for the money: Rogue R-3 Power Rack
- Best Rogue rack for an organized look: Rogue RML-690 Power Rack
- Best Rogue power rack for the serious athlete: Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
Best Power Rack Overall: Rogue RML-490 power rack
Size, power and price make this the ultimate power rack. This rack can be used for a small gym or a collegiate level training, all while taking up a 53″ x 53″ space. And if you prefer not to mount it to the floor, this power rack can use the Monster Lite Rack Wall Mount Kit to mount it against the wall instead!
This highly customizable Monster Lite rack is equipped to serve professional strength training facilities, collegiate weight rooms, military training bases, and small garage gyms, alike.
Best Half Rack Overall: Rogue HR-2 half rack
Maybe you are currently renting your place and don’t have the ability to mount something to the floor or the wall. Don’t let that stop you from getting a good workout! This Rogue half rack makes for the perfect piece of equipment to bench, squat and practice bar exercises all without the need for bolting down the rack.
Two add-ons to highly consider for this set up would be the Pin/Pipe Safety Set and Plate Storage Pairs.
The customizable Rogue HR-2 Half Rack can be installed as a stand-alone unit or by converting an existing Monster Lite Series squat stand.
Best flat foot rack: RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack
Another great option that doesn’t require bolting to the floor or wall is the RML-390F. A big difference to note between this flat foot rack and the half rack is the inside depth.
Inside depth for HR-2 half rack is 17″, compared to almost double that with 30″ of inside depth in the RML-390F. This gives you more room to move through those lifts, like squats, that can take up more space. One 30″ Pin/ Pipe Safety System is included with this set as well.
This rack’s self-stabilizing base means you won’t need to bolt it to the ground before you use it—a major benefit for those looking to protect their floors or to have more flexibility in a workout space.
Best Rack for the Money: Rogue R-3 Power Rack
The Rogue R-3 power rack has been a company staple for years now. Based off of the Classic Westside Barbell Rack, this rack is the most compact of the R series. Pin/Pipe Safeties and Band Pegs are included with this rack.
Note this rack must be bolted to the floor or you could purchase the folding version (the R-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack) and mount it to the wall.
The R-3 design was adapted from the model that helped build champion powerlifters at Westside Barbell here in Columbus, OH, and it’s been a staple of our own arsenal for years.
Best Rack for an Organized Look: Rogue RML-690 Power Rack
This rack right here screams power rack on so many levels. You mean business with this rack because it is one of the most durable, customizable power racks out there right now. Not only can this rack take a heavy lift beating, it can keep your plates close at hand too. Eight bumper plate storage posts, pin/pipe safeties, and a four-pack of band pegs are all included in this mega power rack. Oh and bolting it to the ground is optional!
A unique hybrid of the Rogue R-6 Power Rack and RM-6 Monster Rack, the RML-690 is built for the serious, nose-to-the-grindstone strength training facility—be it at the high school, college, or pro level.
Best Power Rack for the Serious Athlete: Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0
Available in three heights, the RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0 is a work of art. This impressive piece of equipment was created to support the needs of top athletic facilities in the world. The custom color options allow for team colors to shine in the weight room and the optional Monster strap safety system 2.0 is built to withstand 10,000 pounds. This rack has your back.
Rogue designed the fully customizable power racks of the Monster Series to meet the high demands of the top professional, collegiate, and high school athletic facilities in the world.
Wall mounts
Wallmounts are a great way to get multiple uses out of one piece of equipment but also not have it take up the entire space. Rogue offers a great variety of wallmount options so take a look!
- Best Rogue wallmount overall: Monster Lite Wallmount
- Best Rogue folding wallmount: Rogue RML-3WC Fold Back Wall Mount Rack
- Best Rogue wallmount for the home gym: Rogue W-4 – 4′ Wall Mount Rig
- Best Rogue wallmount for the money: Rogue R-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack
Best Rogue Wallmount Overall: Monster Lite Wallmount
The Monster Lite Wallmount allows you to choose how big you want to (or can) go as far as length goes. This rig is available in 10′, 14′, 20′ and 24′ and each rig is required to be bolted to the ground and the wall. Obviously the longer you go, the more pull-up stations and bench areas you have available.
I’d say the only bummer is that going with this wallmount, you don’t get the option to choose your steel color.
The wall mount version of the Monster Lite Pull-Up Rig combines the immovable 3×3″ 11-Gauge Steel uprights of the original Rogue Monster Rig with the 0.625″ holes of the Infinity Rig—all while reducing equipment costs and maximizing your training space.
Best Rogue Folding Wallmount: RML-3WC Fold Back Wallmount
Wanting a power rack but don’t have the space? Well then this folding wallmount is your solution! This Rogue wallmount uses an engineered hinge-and-pin system. The installation is easy and you can trust the sturdiness of the equipment. Once installed you can use it for pull-ups or lifts and not worry that it’s going to give out on you. Then when you are done, you just fold it all up and you’ve got your space back.
The central design challenge with the Fold Back Rack was to come up with a wall-mount unit that could be folded inward or outward for optimal space efficiency, yet still offer the sturdiness of our standard Monster Lite power racks.
Best Rogue Wallmount for Home Gym: Rogue W-4 – 4′ Wall mount rig
The possibilities feel endless with this wallmount. If you don’t have tall ceilings in your garage, don’t worry – they have an option for that. If you want to use the front pull-up bar for rings, there is an option for that too. This wallmount was made to suit whatever your at home needs may be. Not to mention it gives you a versatile rig, at a nicer price point.
The W-4 is a Wall mount version of the Infinity Series Rig. It can be customized any way you like: height, pullup bars, accessories. The options are endless. This rack is great for a home gym or Affiliate that needs a smaller Rig.
Best Rogue Wallmount for the Money: Rogue R-3W Fold back wall mount rig
If you’re going to get a wallmount for a personal space, whether a garage or a basement, this wallmount rig is the best purchase. It covers all the basic needs for a workout and has a folding capability. But the biggest selling point is that this wallmount rig has all the capabilities at the best price.
The goal with the R-3W was to develop a wall-mount unit that could be folded inward or outward for space efficiency, yet still offer the sturdiness of our standard R-Series racks. To achieve this, our engineering team developed a unique hinge-and-pin system that is both easy to install and rock solid.
Squat Stands
Last up on the long list of the best Rogue racks are squat stands. All of these stands are priced at less than $500, making them the most economical list in the guide. But down the road if you decide you need more, Rogue helps you convert your squat stand to a power rack with their conversion kit.
- Best Rogue squat stand overall: SML-2 Rogue 90″ Monster Lite Squat Stand
- Best Rogue squat stand for the money: Rogue Echo Squat Stand 2.0
- Best Rogue squat stand for low ceilings: SML-1 Rogue 70″ Monster Lite Squat Stand
- Best Roque squat stand for pull-ups: Rogue S-2 Squat Stand 2.0
Best Rogue Squat Stand Overall: SML-2 Rogue 90″ Monster Lite Squat Stand
Maybe you aren’t ready to splurge on a power rack just yet but are still wanting similar capabilities. This squat stand gives you that strength but in a more compact version.
The American-made SML-2 is equally equipped for squats, bench, pull-ups, clean pulls, floor press, and more. And with a footprint of just 49″ x 48″, it’s a squat stand well suited to both a garage gym or a large-scale training facility.
Best Rogue Squat Stand for the Money: Rogue Echo Squat Stand 2.0
This is hands down Rogue’s most affordable stand and one of the more fairly priced stands on the market. It was capacity tested at 1000lbs so you should be decently set with this one.
Like the original Echo Stand, Version 2.0 skips the unnecessary bells and whistles to focus on function, space-efficiency, and dependability—handling your 500LB back squats with ease.
Best Rogue Squat Stand for Low Ceilings: Rogue S-2 Squat Stand 2.0
If you’re working with low ceilings (like 8′ or 9′) this squat stand allows you to still get in those pull-ups which is a huge plus. Obviously if you’re tall, it may still be a little bit of an issue though. Overall this rack takes care of business, while still staying shorter than most.
The S-2 Squat Stand’s 92″ height gives you ample space for pull-ups under an 8-foot ceiling, while a compact 48″x48″ foot print leaves plenty of room for additions and customization.
Well you did it! You made it to the end of the ultimate guide to the best Rogue rack. Hopefully this guide was helpful and allowed you to narrow down your choices. If you are in the market for more gym equipment, check out our air bike post. We compare the assault bike with the Rogue echo bike to highlight the main differences.
As always, please let us know if you have any questions or feel free to share what has been your favorite Rogue rack setup!
Pin for later:
