Exercise Daily – If you’re serious about building a powerful set of shoulders, lateral raises are essential. But not just any lateral raise—using the right equipment can significantly enhance your workout. If you’re building your home gym or upgrading your power rack, lateral raise attachments can take your strength training to the next level. In this article, we will explore the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks in 2025 that will help you target your lateral deltoids, giving you those defined shoulders you’ve always dreamed of.
What is a Lateral Raise Attachment?
Before diving into the best options for lateral raise attachments, let’s define what they are. A lateral raise attachment is a piece of gym equipment that attaches to a squat rack or power rack to help you perform lateral raises more effectively. These attachments generally come with weight pegs that hold weight plates, and some even include mechanisms to ensure a smooth, controlled movement. This equipment allows you to use cable resistance, which can be more effective than dumbbells at targeting the lateral deltoids, resulting in bigger and stronger shoulders.
Why Choose a Lateral Raise Attachment?
You might wonder, “Why should I choose an attachment over free weights or a lateral raise machine?” The answer lies in the benefits of using a rack-mounted lateral raise attachment. Unlike dumbbells, which require you to control the movement with your arms and stabilize your core, the rack-mounted version provides a more controlled movement. This ensures that the focus remains on your shoulder muscles, particularly the lateral deltoids, without the risk of improper form.
Additionally, the lateral raise attachment can provide a superior resistance profile compared to free weights. The consistent tension throughout the movement, particularly at the peak of the raise, can make a significant difference in your gains. Plus, it can help you avoid the clutter of dumbbells or the limitations of a lateral raise machine in your home gym.
7 Best Lateral Raise Attachments for Squat Rack in 2025
1. Mikolo Lateral Raise Attachment for Squat Rack
If you’re looking for the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks, the Mikolo Lateral Raise Attachment for Squat Rack is an excellent option to enhance your shoulder workouts. This versatile attachment allows you to perform effective standing lateral raises and strengthen your deltoids while utilizing your squat rack.
Features:
- Heavy-duty construction for durability
- Adjustable height and arm position for comfort and ease of use
- Provides smooth and controlled movements during lateral raises
Pros:
- Ideal for shoulder and arm development
- Can be easily mounted on most squat racks
- Adjustable design allows for a customized workout
Cons:
- May not fit all squat rack models without proper adjustments
2. Mikolo Lateral Raise Attachment, 2-in-1 Lateral Raise & Chest Fly Machine
When searching for the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks, the Mikolo 2-in-1 Lateral Raise & Chest Fly Machine stands out. It provides both lateral raise and chest fly exercises in one compact attachment, giving you the flexibility to work on your shoulders and chest.
Features:
- Dual functionality for both lateral raises and chest flies
- Sturdy design for smooth, safe operation
- Adjustable arms for optimal comfort and performance
Pros:
- Offers versatile exercises in one attachment
- Adjustable design for personalized fit
- Excellent for targeting multiple muscle groups
Cons:
- May take up more space compared to single-purpose attachments
3. Lateral Raise Attachment Standing Lateral Raise Machine Shoulder Press
For those in search of the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks, this Lateral Raise Attachment Standing Lateral Raise Machine Shoulder Press is an exceptional choice. It allows for a standing lateral raise or shoulder press, providing great flexibility and support for shoulder exercises.
Features:
- Built for both lateral raises and shoulder presses
- Easy to set up and adjust
- Heavy-duty frame for stability and safety
Pros:
- Multi-functionality for variety in workouts
- Sturdy design ensures safe, smooth movement
- Adjustable for a wide range of users
Cons:
- May require specific squat rack compatibility for mounting
4. FVNBXG Lateral Raise Attachment Standing Lateral Raise Machine
The FVNBXG Lateral Raise Attachment Standing Lateral Raise Machine is one of the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks, offering a robust design and versatility for your shoulder workout routine. It’s designed to give you the best workout experience with smooth movement and solid support.
Features:
- Compact and durable design for long-term use
- Adjustable height to suit different users
- Provides smooth and controlled lifting motion
Pros:
- Easy to install and adjust
- Perfect for strengthening deltoids and upper body
- Compatible with most squat racks
Cons:
- May require additional accessories to fit some squat racks
5. Power Rack Mounted Leg Extension & Curl Machine for Home Gym
While primarily designed for leg extension and curl exercises, the Power Rack Mounted Leg Extension & Curl Machine is another valuable attachment for your squat rack that offers additional workout flexibility, making it one of the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks.
Features:
- Dual-purpose machine for leg extension and curls
- Adjustable leg pads for comfort
- Sturdy and durable construction
Pros:
- Multifunctional attachment
- Provides excellent leg workouts
- Easily mounts to most power racks
Cons:
- Not specifically designed for lateral raises
6. MARLANG Leg Extension and Curl Machine for Power Rack Attachments
The MARLANG Leg Extension and Curl Machine for Power Rack Attachments is another solid choice for expanding your squat rack’s capabilities. While it’s designed for leg extension and curls, it can complement your workout with a variety of exercises, making it one of the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks.
Features:
- Adjustable for different user heights
- Sturdy frame for secure leg exercises
- Compact design for easy storage
Pros:
- Great for full-leg workouts
- Adjustable for comfort
- Easy to mount to most power racks
Cons:
- Not specifically made for lateral raise exercises
7. Plate Loaded Deltoid and Shoulder Press Machine
For a comprehensive workout experience, the Plate Loaded Deltoid and Shoulder Press Machine is among the best lateral raise attachments for squat racks, offering heavy-duty performance and adjustable features for a full shoulder workout.
Features:
- Plate-loaded design for customizable resistance
- Adjustable seat and arms for a tailored fit
- High-quality construction for durability and smooth operation
Pros:
- Provides a full range of motion for shoulder exercises
- Adjustable for various body types
- Plate-loaded for flexible resistance
Cons:
- Requires additional weight plates for use
How to Choose the Right Lateral Raise Attachment for Your Rack
Selecting the right lateral raise attachment for your squat rack is crucial for both safety and performance. There are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the most out of your workout routine.
1. Compatibility with Your Squat Rack
The first thing you need to check is whether the lateral raise attachment is compatible with your existing squat rack. Most squat racks come with either a 1-inch or 2-inch hole, so make sure the attachment fits securely into the rack’s holes. Some lateral raise attachments are designed to work with any rack, while others are specifically made for certain models. Checking the size of the holes and the design of the attachment can save you time and frustration.
2. Durability and Build Quality
When investing in a lateral raise rack attachment, it’s essential to ensure that it’s made from durable materials. High-quality attachments should be able to withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear. Look for attachments made from steel or other heavy-duty materials. The sturdier the attachment, the safer and more effective it will be for your workout. The durability of the attachment will also impact its lifespan, so a good investment in quality now will save you money in the long run.
3. Weight Capacity and Resistance
Different attachments have varying weight capacities. Some are designed to hold light weight, while others can withstand much heavier loads. If you’re serious about building shoulder strength and muscle, ensure that the attachment can handle the amount of weight you plan to use. Check whether the attachment has an adjustable resistance feature. This is crucial because you may want to increase or decrease resistance as you progress in your training.
4. Ease of Use and Adjustability
One of the key benefits of a lateral raise rack attachment is its ability to provide a more controlled movement than traditional dumbbells. But how easy is it to adjust the attachment for different exercises or resistance levels? Look for attachments that are easy to set up and adjust, especially if you’re planning to use it in a busy home gym. Some attachments come with multiple adjustment points, allowing you to change the angle or height to match your body type and movement.
5. Space and Storage Considerations
While most lateral raise rack attachments are compact and space-efficient, it’s still important to think about storage. If you have limited space in your home gym, consider choosing an attachment that can be easily stored when not in use. Rack-mounted attachments are generally a great option since they save floor space and keep your gym more organized. However, some attachments come with additional features, like weight horns or a fly attachment, which may require extra space. Be sure to factor this in when deciding where to install your rack-mounted lateral raise attachment.
6. Price vs. Value
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s essential to consider the value that each lateral raise attachment provides. A high-quality, durable attachment might come with a higher price tag, but it will last longer, offer better performance, and ultimately give you better results in the long run. Look at user reviews and testimonials to understand the value of the attachment you’re considering. If the attachment delivers on its promises and helps you achieve your fitness goals faster, then it’s worth the investment.
Conclusion
Adding a lateral raise attachment to your squat rack is an easy and effective way to level up your shoulder workout routine. With the right attachment, you can target your lateral deltoids with precision, maximizing your gains and ensuring a more controlled movement than free weights. From the Mikolo lateral raise rack attachment to the Revolt lateral raise attachment, each option provides unique features that can enhance your strength training routine. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be investing in equipment that helps you build a powerful shoulder set, one rep at a time.
FAQs About Best Lateral Raise Attachment
Q: What is the best lateral raise attachment for home gyms?
A: The Mikolo lateral raise rack attachment is widely considered one of the best for home gyms because of its versatility and smooth, controlled motion.
Q: Can I use regular dumbbells with these attachments?
A: Most lateral raise attachments are designed to use weight plates, but some attachments may allow you to use dumbbells if you prefer.
Q: How do I install a lateral raise attachment on my squat rack?
A: Lateral raise attachments typically mount directly onto the squat rack using a weight peg or hook. Ensure that the attachment fits the hole size on your rack (usually 1-inch or 2-inch).
Q: Is a lateral raise attachment better than a lateral raise machine?
A: Yes, a rack-mounted lateral raise attachment is generally better for home gyms as it saves space and offers a more controlled movement compared to free weights, though a machine may feel smoother for some users.
Q: How much weight can I use with a lateral raise rack attachment?
A: The amount of weight you can use depends on the attachment’s weight peg and the rack’s stability. Most attachments are designed to handle standard Olympic weight plates, which means you can load them with a substantial amount of weight.
