Dumbbell Sets

A set of dumbbell weights in the gym. Low angle close-up photo-realistic 3D render

Gym and workout equipments in fitness center.

Depending on what you have available, you'll want a variety of dumbbells ranging from light to heavier (three to 20 pounds). Freeman said in order to know if you've chosen the correct weight, you'll really be feeling it by the last couple reps. If you do all 10 reps and feel you could do more, increase the weight a bit (here's a handy guide on how to choose the right weights for you).

Popsport Adjustable Dumbbell-Single

If you're looking for a classic set of dumbbells that'll withstand the test of time, both functionally and aesthetically.

These hex dumbbells are made of the most durable material, solid cast iron, so you know they can withstand daily wear and will last you a lifetime. Cast iron is less prone to cracking or breaking, so you can drop them after a heavy set without damaging the dumbbell. However, that may not be a good idea if you have wood floors as they could scratch or damage the wood.

f you've got the extra space, this dumbbell set from Modern Office is the perfect addition to your home or office gym. The set comes with hexagon-shaped dumbbells in five-pound increments, from 5 to 50 pounds, and a three-tiered horizontal rack that stores all the dumbbells neatly.

The hex shape ensures the dumbbell stays in place and doesn't roll off the rack, while the knurled handles allow for good grip—even with sweaty hands. They're made out of metal, so they're basically immune to wear and tear. But what we really love is that the dumbbells feature rubber-coated heads, so you won't have to worry about damaging hardwood floors when dropping them on the floor.

While the storage rack that comes with this set is larger and takes up more space than a vertical rack like the one that comes with the CAP Barbell 150 LB Dumbbell Set With Rack, it also includes double the dumbbells. In fact, this set fits 10 pairs of dumbbells ranging from 5 to 50 pounds each, which is perfect for a variety of full-body workouts.

Neoprene Dumbbells, we found that they’re a great set for beginners who just need a few light weights to get started. Each set comes with a pair of 2-pound, 3-pound, and 5-pound dumbbells, making it ideal for people who are new to lifting and want a collection of lighter weights that are easy to hold and maneuver to get started. These weights are also great for people looking to add some resistance to at-home Pilates or barre workouts, which focus on slow and controlled movements using light weights. You can even use these during your next at-home spin session, a à la Peloton.

The no-slip neoprene coating makes these dumbbells easy to hold throughout a variety of exercises, from bent-over rows to lunges. The powdery coating provides a good grip with both dry and sweaty palms, and we like that we never feel that these weights will slip from our hands, no matter how sweaty we get. Although these dumbbells are fairly durable, you may want to avoid dropping them. Dropping them from waist height on gym flooring during our drop test caused two sizable dings. But dropping them did not damage the dumbbells enough to expose the metal under the coating.

We love that this set comes in bright colors (instead of the black and metal typical for dumbbells) and that it’s small and easy to hide under furniture or in closets. Overall, they look nice and are a good option for people in small spaces who want a lighter set.

Dumbbell Sets Fitness boot camp

Adjustable dumbbells are great if you're limited on space, but they're notoriously expensive. This budget-friendly set from Buxano comes in two weight ranges, either 5-25 pounds or 11-55 pounds, and clocks in under $170 per single dumbbell (or $210 if you choose the higher weight range)—so you'll pay about $340 for a pair of 5-25-pound adjustable dumbbells or $420 for the 11-55-pound option. If you want two dumbbells, remember to add two to your cart because a single order comes with just one dumbbell.

Dumbbell Sets Fitness boot camp

We love that this CAP dumbbell set is easy to use and durable and that each dumbbell offers good grip. This is the perfect set for progressing your full-body workouts over time. It comes with five pairs of hex dumbbells ranging from 5 to 25 pounds. All dumbbells are neatly stored in an A-frame rack that keeps them organized without taking up too much horizontal space—a major plus if you don't have much room in your home gym.

When using this dumbbell set in our weightlifting routine, we love that the rack makes it easy to warm up with the lighter weights and then switch to heavier weights to up the intensity. We also like that each dumbbell is classically shaped, allowing us to comfortably perform any movement without having to alter our form. Thanks to their knurled handles, these dumbbells are easy to grip, even with sweaty hands. We also give these dumbbells a perfect score in the durability department: After dropping them on gym flooring for our durability test, we noticed a few scuff marks but no lasting damage.

Just note that the rack does require assembly, but even if you aren't super handy, putting it together is fairly easy. This is a great space-saving set for your home gym that's worth the investment, although it may not offer enough weight for more advanced lifters.

Dumbbell Sets Fitness boot camp