While I love to book an exercise class as much as the next person, the only thing that keeps me consistent with my training is squeezing in a quick workout from home. The secret? Having essential equipment on hand to create a mini gym inside my apartment.
The supply list is simple: a yoga mat for comfort, resistance bands for an added challenge, and (arguably the most important) dumbbells for weight lifting. Whether you are lucky enough to have the space to build out a whole weight rack or are looking for small-space-friendly solutions, we found the six best dumbbells to set you up for success. Ahead, explore editor-loved styles and innovative designs that will instantly elevate your sweat sesh.
Our Favorite Dumbbells
Maximize comfort with a nonslip shell: Popsugar Neoprene Dumbbell at $16
To add a pop of color to your workout routine: Gaiam x Free People Movement 8lb Dumbbell at $26
The perfect pairing for your favorite at-home workout machines: Peloton Dumbbells at $55
Small but mighty weights that are easy to store: Bala Bars at $59
A neutral, chic dumbbell rack: WeGym Square Dumbbell Set at $172
Five weight options in one dumbbell: Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbell Set at $190
Popsugar Neoprene Dumbbell ($16)
When you find time to squeeze in a quick workout, the last thing you should be worrying about is if your weights will roll away mid-set, or slip through a sweaty palm. These neoprene square dumbbells work overtime to make sure your exercise experience is seamless. Read more in our full Popsugar Neoprene Dumbbell review.
Editor Quote: "I love these dumbbells for a few key reasons. First of all, they're neoprene, so they're very easy to grip, even when you're sweaty. Plus, they come in lots of cute colors, which is a little boost of serotonin in a sea of black and gray weights. My number one favorite feature, though, is the square shape. It's the perfect example of a tiny design change that significantly impacts the experience and efficacy of a product." — India Yaffe, former associate shopping editor
Gaiam x Free People Movement 8lb Dumbbell ($26)
One way to spark joy and motivation to pick up a dumbbell? Add bright, fun colors such as this peach sorbet option from Free People. Every weight in the collection comes in a different shade so you can quickly identify what you need to reach for.
Peloton Dumbbells ($55)
Whether you've already invested in Peloton machines or are looking for a more budget-friendly way to introduce the brand to your space, these dumbbells were made to enhance your routine. Customers rave about how the ergonomic design makes each weight easy to hold onto. Choose from up to six different weights to curate your ideal selection.
Bala Bars ($59)
When it comes to weight training, you should never underestimate the power of one to three pound dumbbells. The small but mighty resistance is perfect when paired with short repetitive movements such as Pilates or barre exercises. These handheld bars from Bala will be a welcome challenge during a workout, but they're also easy to store around your apartment. Bonus: they look chic.
WeGym Square Dumbbell Set ($172)
We can't help but think that this dumbbell set was made to create an aesthetically-pleasing at-home gym. But beyond the neutral colorway, it's actually designed to optimize your workouts. Hear all about it in our editor's WeGym Square Dumbbell Review review.
Editor Quote: "With muted colors and geometric shapes, the WeGym dumbbells are aesthetically pleasing — but they're also functional. The coating is thick and soft textured, so the dumbbells aren't too rough on my hands and I can forgo my lifting gloves. I also like that the weight increments are more gradual, increasing by only 1 to 3 pounds per dumbbell. It offers the perfect transition weight if you are in between milestones." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant shopping editor
Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbell Set ($190)
This innovative design is truly the best of both worlds as it offers maximum options with limited space. While these look like two average dumbbells, you can alternate the amount of plates on either side to adjust the weight. Starting as low as five pounds and going up to 25 pounds, you can achieve the versatility of a weight rack in any tight space.
Adelaide Giesey (she/her) is a shopping writer at Popsugar. With over seven years of industry experience, she is an expert in all things beauty and enjoys writing across fashion and lifestyle categories. Prior to PS, she helped shape the beauty verticals at Byrdie, Coveteur, and InStyle.
