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Adjustable dumbbells can be the perfect addition to your home gym. These dumbbells allow you to change the weight you are lifting without purchasing multiple weight plates. Most use a quick adjustment system that allows you to change weights in a fraction of the time when compared to traditional dumbbells.
We’ve curated this list of the best adjustable dumbbells in Canada based on our criteria, research, and tests. Hopefully, our list will help you decide on the perfect adjustable dumbbells for you.
Best adjustable dumbbells in Canada
- Best overall: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best handlebar: FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell
- Best weight range: ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell
- Best set-up: NiceC Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
- Best plate design: Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best safety: Soges Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
Best overall: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Bowflex is a popular company for home gyms and workout equipment in Canada, and they have been for years. They’ve proven their quality time and time again. Their adjustable dumbbells are some of the best in the Canadian market today.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells feature 15 adjustable weight settings, ranging from 5 pounds to 52.5 pounds. They use a dial-a-weight system, which means you don’t have to add the weights yourself. Simply line up the weights within the tray and lower the handlebar into place.
From here, you can select the weight you want to use. The right plates will lock into place, and the ones you aren’t using will be left behind on the tray. It’s a simple and quick way to change weights. This comes in handy when you’re switching during sets, as you don’t have to lose precious lifting time by changing the weights manually.
For the most part, these Bowflex adjustable dumbbells offer small weight increments. Most settings can be adjusted within 2.5 pounds, with the exception being between 25 and 50 pounds. In this weight range, you can only adjust in 5-pound increments. This saves space on the storage tray.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells are sold as a pair, so you don’t have to purchase two separate dumbbells. They’re durable outside of some plastic parts around the mechanisms.
Features of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
15 weight sets
These adjustable dumbbells by Bowflex feature 15 different weight options. That includes the following weight settings: 5, 7.5, 10, 12.4, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 52.5 pounds. This one small set can replace up to 15 different weight sets that you would normally purchase separately.
Large weight range
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells can adjust from 5 pounds to 52 pounds. While some dumbbells have smaller weight ranges, these have you covered for more intense exercise progression.
Convenient dial system
The dial adjustment system allows you to change weights on the fly. You only have to set the dumbbells down into their storage holder and select the weight you want to use on the dial. The plates you need will click onto the handlebar, while the others stay in the tray.
Small weight increments
While some adjustable dumbbells only adjust in 5-pound increments, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells adjust in 2.5-pound increments. This means you can step up your workout more effectively. However, some steps are missing. From 25 pounds to 50 pounds, you can only adjust in 5-pound increments. This is likely to save space on the storage tray.
Sold as a pair
Instead of purchasing two single adjustable dumbbells, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 pair comes as a complete set. When you consider that you get two adjustable dumbbells, the price is a little more reasonable.
What sets the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells apart?
These adjustable dumbbells offer a ton of convenience. The storage tray is extremely compact, especially when compared to traditional dumbbells. It’s easy to store these away for your next workout. When you’re working out with them, you can quickly change between different weight values. This may be extremely beneficial for certain workouts. In addition, they’re quiet while you’re working out. Moulding around the plates mean they don’t rattle or clank as much.
- Compact and easy to store
- It’s quick to switch between different weight values
- Quiet operation
Best Handlebar: FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell
Flybird makes a great catalogue of home workout equipment. This adjustable dumbbell is an impressive addition to their lineup. They are extremely compact, and they do the work of five different dumbbell sets without taking up the space. It’s also a great budget option, as you would likely pay more for five separate dumbbells.
You can choose between 5 different weight selections, ranging from 5 pounds to 25 pounds. You can change between them in increments of 5 pounds, allowing for a gradual increase as you work out. This is a great dumbbell for beginners because of the small weight range.
The weight selection system itself is somewhat unique among adjustable dumbbells. It uses the dial-a-weight system, so you select the weight you want to use by turning the dial. However, these dumbbells feature the dial in the interior of the place. You change the dial by twisting the handle instead of turning an exterior mechanism.
Despite this, the dumbbell is safe. The weight options can only be changed when the dumbbell is in the storage tray. During use, it locks to prevent accidents. The handlebar itself is sturdy, textured aluminum that helps with grip. The middle of the handlebar is thicker than in some other dumbbells, making it easier to hold as well.
When you purchase the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell, you get a single dumbbell. You’ll have to buy two to get the full set, but they are inexpensive compared to similar dumbbells on the market. If you’re a beginner with limited space in your home gym, the Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell is a great option for you.
Features of the FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell
Textured aluminium handlebar
This adjustable dumbbell features a textured aluminum handlebar. It’s thicker than some of the other handlebars we’ve seen, with a wider middle section to help you hold them without pain. In addition, the texture on the bar helps you keep your grip, even when you’re sweating.
Weight selection in interior dial
The Flybird Adjustable Dumbbell uses a dial-a-weight adjustment system. This allows you to effortlessly change between 5 weight choices if the weights are on the weight tray. Unlike many adjustable dumbbells, the weight-changing mechanism is on the inside of the handlebar, which helps reduce bulk.
One-handed changing system
The one-handed changing system on this adjustable dumbbell makes switching weight settings easy and quick. While the dumbbell is mounted in the tray, twist the handle with a single hand to change between the different settings. You don’t have to stop everything to change the weight options.
Beginner-level weight range
For beginners, toning, and more, this beginner-level weight range will help you get started. These weights start at 5 pounds and can be increased in 5-pound increments. The highest weight available on this adjustable dumbbell is 25 pounds.
What sets the FLYBIRD adjustable dumbbell apart?
These are great quality dumbbells. The adjustment system is easy and quick, so you don’t have to worry too much about it. They are extremely affordable, especially when you compare them to similar dumbbells on the market. The quality doesn’t suffer due to the reduced price. The safety system makes it easy to detect when the weights are properly locked in, as you won’t be able to lift the dumbbells from the tray. And the tray itself is a great size for storage, especially if you don’t have much space in your home gym.
- Affordable compared to other adjustable dumbbells
- Safety system for locking in weights
- Great size for storage
Best weight range: ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell
AtivaFit offers an attractive dumbbell with a higher weight range than we’ve seen so far. One of these dumbbells replaces up to 17 different traditional dumbbells, saving major space in your home gym. If you’re serious about full-body workouts in your home gym, this adjustable dumbbell is the perfect addition to your equipment.
It features an impressive range, from 11 pounds up to 71.5 pounds. You can change the weight by 5.5-pound increments. In smaller dumbbells with a less impressive weight range, this is a huge increment. However, the weight range makes this relatively small in the scheme of things.
You can choose between different weight plates by using the dial system on the sides of the dumbbells. With the dumbbell on the weight tray, simply turn the dial to your preferred weight option. Individual locks will move the weights into place and lock them in. Once locked, it’s safe to remove the dumbbells from the weight tray and carry on with your workout. The entire process is quick and painless.
The rubberized handlebar is the area you’ll be using most when it comes to this dumbbell. It’s textured for easy gripping, and the rubber design helps keep your hands comfortable while you work out. You’ll need that texture, too: working out with the higher weights on the range requires a bit more grip. The AtivaFit dumbbells are easy to grip and use effectively.
Be aware that these dumbbells are sold separately. If you want two dumbbells to complete certain full-body workouts, you’ll need to make two separate orders. There is no option to buy them as a pair.
Features of the ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell
Large weight range
The AtivaFit adjustable dumbbell features the largest weight range on our list. You can adjust from 11 pounds to 71.5 pounds, all by using the 5.5-pound increments. For this massive weight range, that’s a relatively small increment for adjustment. In addition, this range can be great for a variety of workouts, including strength training.
Rubberized handlebar
The comfortable handlebar on this dumbbell is both rubberized and textured. This makes it easier to hold without your hand slipping. It’s also ideal for longer workouts and creates a strong grip for those higher weights in the range.
Dial-a-weight selection system
A dial on each side of the dumbbell allows you to change the weight you’re using. This change can only occur while the dumbbell is in the weight tray, so you can’t drop weights off the dumbbell while you’re using it. Simply select the weight you want while the dumbbell rests on the tray, and the appropriate weights will lock into place. It’s fast and convenient, so you don’t have to pause your workout.
Safety locking grooves
Each weight is held in place by its locking groove, making it safe to select the weight you need. These locks are individually controlled and help keep your dumbbell from falling apart as you work. It’s safe and effective!
What sets the ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell apart?
AtivaFit’s adjustable dumbbell looks great and functions well, offering performance equal to several different traditional dumbbells. It’s compact enough to fit just about anywhere in your home, including any available space in the smallest home gyms. The large weight range makes them ideal for multiple different workouts, including toning, strength training, and upper and lower body workouts. The small increments are impressive, especially on a dumbbell that offers such a wide weight range.
- Compact storage design
- Great for multiple workouts
- Impressive weight range with small increments
Best set-up: NiceC Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
These adjustable dumbbells from NiceC look different from most of the adjustable dumbbells on the market. They are a bright yellow colour, which immediately sets them apart. Once you look a little deeper, you can see that they offer more versatility and more numerous options than any of the dumbbells we’ve looked at so far.
You can use these dumbbells in three different configurations. You can start with the adjustable dumbbells. They feature ergonomic grips, as well as space for up to three different weights. Using the largest weight plates, you can get these barbells to roughly 27 pounds each.
Then, you can change them into a light barbell using a connector bar. This steel bar is covered with foam to give it a comfortable grip. You can add additional weights at both ends of the original dumbbell pieces, creating a heavy barbell. The barbell pieces, with all additional weight plates installed, can weigh up to 55 pounds.
Each of the twelve weight plates is covered in rubber, so they won’t ruin your floors or damage surfaces when you set them down. If you happen to drop them, you don’t have to worry about denting your floors or the weights. The weights themselves don’t slide around on the barbells or the dumbbells, making it safe and comfortable to hold them.
Overall, these dumbbells offer you tons of options. You can even choose between 6 different sets, all of which include different weight plates. The largest set offers weights up to 88 pounds, which is great if you want to increase your workout gradually.
Features of the NiceC Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
Three set-up options
You can use the NiceC adjustable dumbbells in three different configurations. You can use just the dumbbells, or you can attach the center lift bar to turn them into a light barbell. Attach more weights to make it a heavy barbell. It’s great for all your weightlifting needs.
Rubber-covered plates
The weight plates are covered with rubber. They won’t mark your floors, especially hardwood floors. The rubber covering also cushions them, so they won’t create undue damage even if you drop them. They’re a safer weight than some of the standard metal ones.
Ergonomic grip
The grip on the long bar and the dumbbell handlebars are ergonomic. It’s comfortable to hold, and your hands won’t ache after prolonged use. The grip is also slip-resistant on both pieces, ensuring that the weights won’t slip out of your hands.
Large weight range
The versatility of these dumbbells makes it essential that they use a higher weight range. This set comes with 12 different weights, allowing you to take the barbell or dumbbells from 1 pound to 55 pounds. There are a variety of increments, including 3.3lbs, 4.4lbs, and 5.5lbs. It’s great for any step of your weightlifting journey.
Multiple options available
If you need a smaller weight range (or a larger one), there are multiple options available. There are six different weight options. This set is right in the middle, but you can purchase 88lb Barbells/44lb Dumbbells if you want the extra weight. If you’re not up to the task yet, the smallest set is 22lb Barbells/11lb Dumbbells.
What sets the NiceC Adjustable Dumbbell Pair apart?
These adjustable dumbbells are sturdier than they appear. The weights don’t slide around on the bars, making it safer to use than other weights. They are comfortable to hold as well, and their ergonomic handles make it easier to lift them. We love that they are versatile enough to work for a variety of workouts. The bright yellow colour sets these dumbbells apart from other options as well.
- Weights don’t slide around
- Comfortable to hold
- Extremely versatile set
- Bright yellow colour
Best Plate Design: Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
The Yes4All adjustable dumbbells use a more traditional spin-lock system to add and remove weight, but changing weights is quick. This is due, in part, to the star-lock collars that offer you an easy-grip but secure way to change plates. There are a variety of weight range options, including dumbbells that can adjust up to 200 pounds.
These weights are great for increasing your lifting weight, as you can gradually add plates in smaller increments. The plates themselves are cast iron, with a powder coating to prevent rust. They look and feel very professional, and you can find similar weights in gyms everywhere.
However, these dumbbells don’t work with standard weight plates. You can buy additional plates directly from Yes4All if you need them.
The textured chrome handle is diamond knurled for the best non-slip grip you could ask for, even when your hands are sweating. They are made to make it a little easier to lift weights securely, and they do prevent unnecessary slipping and more. You can also purchase a barbell connector from Yes4All, and easily convert your dumbbells into barbells for well-rounded lifting.
Features of the Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
Knurled chrome handle
The knurled chrome handle is comfortable and textured, making it easy to use the dumbbells when your hands are sweaty. They are anti-slip handles for a secure grip that makes your weightlifting easier.
Weight range options
These adjustable dumbbells have a weight range of up to 52.5 pounds. However, Yes4All has more weight range options, including 40 pounds, 60 pounds, 105, and 200 pounds. You can choose whichever set works best for your workout routine.
Star-lock collars
The star-lock collars provide a safe way to change the weights. These collars secure easily onto the threaded ends of the dumbbells. They keep the weights secure and they are easy to remove. The star design allows you a way to easily grip and loosen them when it’s time to change weights.
Cast iron plates
The weight plates on the Yes4All adjustable dumbbells are powder-coated cast iron, meaning they are extremely durable. They won’t rust over time, and you can use them for many, many years. In addition, Yes4All sells silicone sleeves to protect your surfaces and the edges of the weights.
What sets the Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbell Pair apart?
The Yes4All dumbbells look and feel like professional workout equipment. They are set apart by their durable metal construction, including all the collars, locks, handles, and plates. The design is meant to save space – you won’t have any issues fitting these dumbbells into your home gym. Finally, it’s easy to change weights in the middle of your workout using secured screws.
- Easy weight changes
- Durable metal construction
- Space-saving design
Best safety: Soges Adjustable Dumbbells
The Soges adjustable dumbbells give you the freedom to change how you lift weights. You can use the dumbbells up to 66 pounds, but you can also use the expandable barbell handle to create even heavier weights for reps, bench presses, and more. The comfortable handles make it easy to use these dumbbells in any situation.
The weight plates themselves aren’t metal. Instead, they’re filled with concrete and sand. They feel a little different, but it’s still an effective workout. The plates aren’t round, either – they have flat sides so you can rest them on the ground without fearing that they’ll roll away.
The rubber covers on the weight plates also help reduce denting and floor damage, even more so if you ever drop the dumbbell. You can use them for just about any part of your full-body workout, and it’s simple to switch between the different weights and options as you go.
If you’re looking for a set of dumbbells that will grow with you, these may be your best option. They are also great for beginners due to the affordable price point. You get both dumbbells in this set, so you don’t have to worry about buying more (unless you want to expand your home gym with more options!
Features of the Soges Adjustable Dumbbells
Anti-roll weight plates
The weight plates on the Soges adjustable dumbbells are shaped like hexagons, meaning they aren’t going to roll when you set them down. This is a perfect addition for those looking to build a safe home gym, as you won’t have to worry about heavy weights rolling across your floors.
Rubber covers
The weight plates also have rubber covers. These prevent the weights from denting your floors and other surfaces. They also make them less damaging if you drop them.
Adjustable barbell options
These adjustable dumbbells from Soges come with barbell extensions, so you can change your dumbbell set into a light barbell or add more weights to make it a heavy barbell. They are extremely versatile and help with all your weightlifting exercises.
What sets the Soges Adjustable Dumbbells apart?
These adjustable dumbbells are user-friendly and perform well for most home users. They come at an affordable price, especially considering that you get two dumbbells and barbell adjustments. Rather than metal weights, these plates are filled with sand and cement, giving them a unique feel. The hollow rod on the barbell expansion is covered in foam, making them easy to grip and non-slip, even with sweaty hands.
- Affordable price
- Weights filled with cement and sand rather than metal
- Easy-grip foam rods
How to choose the best adjustable dumbbells in Canada
Before purchasing your adjustable dumbbells, consider the following benefits and features.
Benefits of using adjustable dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells can be great for your workouts. This is especially true if you have limited storage space, or you’re interested in mild strength training or toning. Adjustable dumbbells allow you to have a variety of different weights at your disposal. When you don’t have to purchase multiple different weights, you’ll save money, too.
A set of adjustable dumbbells are less expensive than purchasing separate dumbbells to fill the same weight range. At the same time, it’s great for those who are just getting started. The dumbbells can grow with you as your training continues and you begin to lift more and more.
They’re also great if you want to gradually increase your weight progressions. Other dumbbells might come in increments of 5, 10, and 15 pounds. Adjustable dumbbells have smaller weight increments than standard dumbbells and weights mind.
In summary, the benefits of using adjustable dumbbells include:
- Require limited storage space
- Different weights/weight progression at your fingertips
- Good for your budget
- They grow with you
- Smaller weight increments than standard dumbbells
What we looked for
To recommend the best adjustable dumbbells in Canada to you, we compared these features.
Weight range
Some adjustable dumbbells have a small weight range (5 – 25lbs, for instance). Others have a much larger range, sometimes as much as 60 or 90 pounds. The reason for this divide is function. A smaller weight range might suit those who are just starting with strength training. However, dedicated trainers might grow out of them quickly. The higher weight ranges benefit those who train more often and are interested in seeing high-level results.
When choosing your dumbbells, consider how you will use them. If you are toning muscle, a smaller weight range might be right for you. If you want the adjustable dumbbells for strength training, consider choosing a higher weight range.
Weight increment
As we discussed above, having a smaller weight increment can help you progress faster. You’ll be changing weights more often, especially if you are toning and building muscle. Dumbbells often increase in 5-pound increments, but a few rare sets increase at 2.5-pound increments. Depending on how you’ll use the dumbbells, you might prefer a smaller increment instead of the standard 5-pound option.
Adjustment method
There are two different methods that adjustable dumbbells use to select weight. We’ll start with the least expensive option.
- Spin lock. This is the least expensive option for adjustable dumbbells. Spin lock dumbbells are also the most like traditional dumbbells. You can add weight plates while the dumbbells are in their holder, and then you must lock them in place. They use threaded sleeves instead of clamps to secure the weights. These are less convenient and may take up more space.
- Dial-a-weight. These adjustable dumbbells allow you to select the weight you want as they rest in the holder. The dumbbells automatically load up the weight that you select. This makes it easy to switch between different weights during your workout. The weights you don’t select stay in the holder tray. This option is more expensive but more convenient. The best adjustable dumbbells in Canada use this adjustment system.
Durability
As with all workout equipment, durability is key. Though it seems like a no-brainer, it is important to choose adjustable dumbbells that will last. Because of the adjustment mechanism, these dumbbells have a reputation for not lasting as long as traditional dumbbells. For that reason, you should do thorough research into durability, especially if you’re going to be using them every day.
Budget
While adjustable dumbbells are usually the more budget-friendly option when it comes to dumbbells, that doesn’t mean they’re inexpensive. A pair of adjustable dumbbells can get costly, so make sure to consider your budget closely. A single adjustable dumbbell (not a pair) can cost under $100, but it can also cost several hundred dollars.
Single or pair?
Some dumbbells are sold as a pair, but they are usually more expensive. More than likely, you’ll come across several adjustable dumbbells that are sold as singles, and you’ll have to order two to get a pair. This is a personal preference. Having two dumbbells is more convenient, especially when it comes to strength training.
However, if you are only toning your muscles or doing a basic workout, you may be able to make it work with a single dumbbell. It’s a little more of a pain and might not have the same results as a pair, but it is an option.
Storage
One of the reasons that people choose adjustable dumbbells is how easy they are to store. You don’t need to have the space for huge weight racks and large handlebars when you purchase adjustable dumbbells. Most are much smaller than full sets of traditional dumbbells.
If you have limited space in your home gym, adjustable dumbbells can help. Just make sure that you pay attention to the dimensions of the dumbbells. You’ll want to have room for the holder.
Warranty
The warranty on any product becomes more important as the price goes up. Adjustable dumbbells are no different. Look for the longest possible warranty to ensure that your dumbbells will last. Most companies will replace or refund your dumbbells if they fail due to a defect.
Final thoughts
Consider the type of workout you’ll be using the adjustable dumbbells for. Make a purchase that matches your preferences and benefits your workouts the most. Hopefully, this list of the best adjustable dumbbells in Canada helped you decide which adjustable dumbbells are right for you.