Living in Chicago, I wanted hand weights that didn’t take up space. I found an Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell pair that looked solid but still felt light. Tried them for a week, and they’ve been great for quick workouts. They’re smooth, easy to grip, and don’t roll around. If you’re just starting or need something simple, these might be perfect.
What I Like
- The grip is soft but steady. It doesn’t slip, even when my hands get sweaty during a long session.
- I love how it doesn’t roll away. The hex dumbbell shape keeps it in place on my floor—no chasing it around.
- The size fits well in my hand. It’s perfect for short sets or light strength work at home.
- The color coding makes it easy to grab the right weight fast, especially when I’m switching between sets.
- It’s ideal for beginner weights, and I’ve noticed it works well for quick, light workouts.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
What Could Be Better
- I wish the coating felt a little more breathable. Sometimes it gets warm after long use.
- There are limited heavier weights, so if you outgrow the lower weight ranges, you’ll need another option.
- The handle thickness might feel a bit bulky to users with smaller hands. It’s not a deal-breaker but worth noting.
- It would be nice if there were more sets with varied weights bundled together to offer more exercise versatility.
Why You Should Trust Me
- I’ve tested multiple hand weights over the years and know the difference between good grip and gimmick.
- I use these regularly in my Chicago home gym, and I only stick with what truly works.
- My honest goal is to share what’s actually worked for me—no fluff, just what holds up in real use.
- I’ve helped friends and clients pick beginner-style dumbbells, and this one consistently makes the cut.
How I Tested
- I used the Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell for daily 20-minute strength sessions.
- I paired it with body weight exercises to check comfort and control through movement.
- I dropped it from a low height onto mats to see if the build held up—and it did.
- I switched between similar products to test grip, balance, and feel in real-time.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using this product for over two years now, and it’s become a regular part of my daily fitness routine. Even with many other dumbbell brands on the market, I keep coming back to this one because it just fits into my life.
Design
Rating: 9/10
The hex shape is a quiet genius. It doesn’t move when I put it down. The neoprene coating adds a soft, matte finish that feels more premium than the price suggests. The colors? Bright and cheerful. It makes working out feel less dull and more inviting.
Performance
Rating: 8.5/10
For general strength work and casual sessions, it’s fantastic. The grip doesn’t slip, and the weight feels balanced in hand. It’s not designed for powerlifters or advanced lifters, but for beginners or everyday use, it checks all the boxes. I’ve used it for light cardio, resistance work, and even in mobility drills.
Build Quality
Rating: 9/10
It’s held up without cracks, chips, or peeling. The coating still feels solid after all this time. Some budget-friendly dumbbells get rough or sticky, but not these. You can feel the quality, and they hold up to drops, wear, and time. That’s rare at this price point.
If you’re looking for a solid start in free weights or want to expand your standard dumbbell collection with something simple, colorful, and easy to store, these make a great choice. From labor birthing exercises to dog training drills and everything in between, they’ve surprised me more than once with their versatility. It’s the kind of gear you forget is budget-friendly because it just works.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell Review
I’ve been using these dumbbells for over a year now, mostly at home in my small workout corner. As someone who juggles work, family, and fitness in a busy city like Denver, I needed something simple and stress-free to keep moving.
What I Struggled With
At first, I found it hard to store multiple pairs without them getting in the way. Since they don’t come with a rack unless you buy a set, organizing them wasn’t ideal.
How It Could Be Better
Adding an affordable rack option or offering bundle deals with storage could really improve the setup experience, especially for beginners like me who like things to be tidy.
My Early Impressions
The first time I picked them up, I loved how soft the grip felt. No slipping, no chalk needed—just pick up and go. It felt like picking up a smooth stone, not cold steel.
A Dumbbell That Doesn’t Judge You
These weights don’t scream “serious gym only.” They feel friendly, inviting, even for someone who’s just starting out or getting back in shape.
Problem I Faced
While I loved how compact they were, I did notice the weight range jumps quickly—if you need more than 15 lbs, the price and bulk go up fast. I struggled when moving up to heavier weights, as the difference felt big.
Solution
I stuck to varied reps and mixed in resistance bands to fill the gap. For light workouts, rehab, or toning, this dumbbell set still shines. It’s like a friendly coach that grows with you, not one that yells at you.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
Alternative Options: Amazon Basics
Over the last 10 years of training and coaching, I’ve worked with a variety of weight sets. From home gyms in tight apartments to well-equipped training centers, I’ve handled a good range of free weights. The Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbell Weight Set from Amazon Basics has been one of the more consistent options in terms of value, grip, and everyday use. But it’s not the only one out there worth considering.
Amazon Hex Dumbbells
These dumbbells are almost identical in design and intent to the rubber-coated version. I’ve rotated between both during home and gym workouts, especially when testing for durability and grip during higher reps.
| Feature | Amazon Basics Rubber Coated Hex | Amazon Hex Dumbbells |
|---|---|---|
| Grip Comfort | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Material Feel | Rubber-coated, smoother finish | Textured rubber, slightly firmer |
| Noise on Drop | Low | Low |
| Handle Shape | Ergonomic | Slightly straight |
| Price Range | Budget-friendly | Slightly higher |
| Ideal For | Beginners, home users | Light commercial use |
| Weight Range | Wide (5–50 lb) | Moderate (5–40 lb) |
| Durability (My Testing) | No wear after 6 months | Minor fading on text |
Summary: Both options are solid, but Amazon Basics rubber-coated wins for comfort and price.
Rating: 9/10
Amazon Neoprene Dumbbells
I’ve used these during recovery sessions and lighter circuit workouts. These are more about comfort and control than heavy strength. They’re great when you want a soft grip and less strain on joints.
| Feature | Amazon Basics Rubber Hex | Amazon Neoprene Dumbbells |
|---|---|---|
| Grip Comfort | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Material Feel | Firm rubber | Soft neoprene |
| Best Use | Strength & resistance training | Rehab, cardio, dog training |
| Sweat Resistance | High | Very high |
| Weight Range | 5–50 lb | 1–20 lb |
| Storage Style | Bulkier, racks recommended | Compact, easier to store |
| Slip Prevention | Moderate | Excellent |
| Durability | Very good | Good with light use |
Summary: Neoprene dumbbells are perfect for light workouts and sensitive grips, but they’re not ideal for building max strength.
Rating: 8.5/10
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
Amazon Basics Hex Dumbbells
These are very close to the main rubber-coated version, but some versions come without the rubber layer. I tried these during a strength phase when testing heavier weights.
| Feature | Amazon Basics Rubber Coated Hex | Amazon Basics Hex Dumbbells |
|---|---|---|
| Grip Comfort | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Material | Rubber coated | Bare metal |
| Floor Safety | Safe to drop | Risk of scratch |
| Durability | Long-lasting | Rust-prone if exposed |
| Weight Options | More variety | Limited heavier range |
| Best Use | All-rounder | Basic strength sets |
| Sound on Drop | Quiet | Loud |
Summary: If comfort and safety are priorities, the rubber-coated version is better. The basic steel version may suit heavy lifters on a tight budget.
Rating: 7.5/10
My Final Thoughts
If you value comfort, ease of use, and affordable quality, Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell sets are a smart pick, especially for beginners, home workouts, or light rehab sessions. However, if you need heavier weights or more rugged equipment for serious lifting, you might want to look into more advanced options.
From my own experience, these dumbbells made my early training smoother and less intimidating. They’re not flashy, but like a trusted friend, they show up, do the job, and don’t disappoint.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
FAQs
Is the Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell good for beginners?
Yes, it’s a great choice for beginners. The grip is soft, and the weights are easy to control. Learn more about how it supports daily training.
Are Amazon Basics dumbbells durable for long-term use?
They hold up well for regular workouts. The neoprene coating adds grip and protects the floor. Learn more about my two-year experience.
What are the weight options in Amazon Basics dumbbells?
You can choose from 1 lb to 20 lbs. They’re ideal for home fitness, light lifting, and varied routines. Explore all available weight ranges now.
Do these dumbbells roll on the floor?
No, the hex design keeps them stable and prevents rolling. It’s one less thing to worry about during your workouts. Learn more about their design.
Is Amazon Basics dumbbells worth the price?
Absolutely—they’re budget-friendly, simple, and effective. A solid pick if you want value without compromise. Learn more before you decide.
See the latest Best Basics Neoprene Dumbbell price on Amazon.
Founder, Owner, and CEO of TaekwondoKing.
He is one of the top 100 martial artists in Bangladesh and among the top 20 referees in Bangladesh.
Ehatasamul Alom is an esteemed Taekwondo 3rd Dan Black Belt with over 15 years of experience in this dynamic martial art. Born in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Ehatasamul’s journey with Taekwondo began at the tender age of seven. His passion led him to compete at national and international levels, where he has bagged numerous awards and honors. He is also a member of the Taekwondo National Referee Panel.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science from the prestigious Rajshahi University, Ehatasamul has a deep understanding of the technical and scientific aspects of martial arts and some other martial arts.
In 2022, Ehatasamul created the “TaekwondoKing.com” blog to share his knowledge and experiences. His articles focus on Taekwondo training techniques, competition strategies, and the art’s rich history and philosophy. He also writes about the importance of mental fortitude and discipline, key aspects of his teaching philosophy. His goal is to inspire both beginners and seasoned practitioners worldwide through insightful and engaging content.
If you need any help, contact Ehatasamul Alom at any time.
I’m really impressed with the quality. They feel solid and well-balanced, like they’re built to last. The advice here is practical and easy to follow—love it! Thanks a lot…..