Equipment / Buying Guide
Best parallettes in 2026
Parallettes transform your calisthenics practice. They increase your range of motion by 20 to 30% on push-ups, recruiting more muscle fibres in your chest and triceps. More gains in strength and mass.
Our top 3 parallettes for 2026
Quick comparison of the best parallettes to help you choose fast.
Gornation (Amazon)
Specialist brand: natural wood bars, non-slip feet, grip tape included.
View offer →XTENIA (ex-Wild Dynamics)
Premium alternative combining wood and steel for perfect grip.
View offer →Some links on this page are affiliate links: we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
How to choose your parallettes
Height
10-15 cm for portability. 25-30 cm for versatility. Higher for dips and advanced L-sit.
Stability
Wide base + non-slip feet = non-negotiable. Wobbly parallettes are dangerous.
Material
Wood for grip and comfort. Steel for stability and outdoor use. The ideal: both combined.
Budget
€15-30 to start seriously. €35-50 for pro gear that lasts years.
Which parallettes for your level?
Starting push-ups on parallettes and L-sit. Priority: stability and wrist comfort.
→ Eric Flag short (15 cm)
Working on L-sit, tuck planche and handstand. You need versatility.
→ Eric Flag long (30 cm)
Straddle planche, V-sit, HSPU... You need maximum stability and height.
→ XTENIA or Gornation Pro
Detailed comparison
Wooden Parallettes by Eric Flag
Strengths
- Quality material that lasts over time
- Choose between short or long models
- Validated by a large community of practitioners
Weaknesses
- Price starting to get a bit high
- They don't do the work for you
Gornation Parallettes (Active / Pro)
Strengths
- Natural wood bar, 40 mm diameter: comfortable grip that eases the wrists
- Three versions, from the compact Active (12 cm) to the 30 cm Max for advanced skills
- Non-slip feet and grip tape included for full control
Weaknesses
- Pricier than Eric Flag for similar performance
- The compact Active version has a shorter bar, less suited to large hands
XTENIA Antlettes V2 Parallettes
Strengths
- Good quality materials
- Wood for grip, steel for stability
- Easy to transport and store
Weaknesses
- Ships from the EU, delivery can take longer
Exercises to do with parallettes
Parallettes transform classic exercises into intense variations and unlock movements impossible on the floor.
Frequently asked questions
Wood or steel parallettes?
Wood offers better grip and more comfort for your hands, especially on long sessions. Steel is more stable and holds up better outdoors. The ideal: parallettes with a steel base and wooden handles.
What height to start with?
Between 10 and 15 cm to start, that's enough for push-ups and L-sit. If you want more versatility and to progress toward advanced skills, go for 25-30 cm.
Can you use parallettes outdoors?
Yes, but go for 100% steel models with anti-rust coating. Wooden parallettes can get damaged by moisture. Store them dry after use.
Do parallettes protect your wrists?
Yes. The elevated grip keeps your wrist in a more neutral position than on the floor, which reduces pressure and improves comfort on long sets of push-ups or static holds.
