We’ve come a long way with the best dumbbells: From the cast iron fixed dumbbells of yesteryear’s iron paradises to space-saving, home-gym-friendly adjustable dumbbells, there’s something available for just about any training space and budget.
While the team here at Garage Gym Reviews typically recommends adjustable dumbbells for a home gym, there’s something about the classic look and feel of a traditional dumbbell with a hexagon head that some folks just need in the garage gym.
Enter, the rubber hex dumbbells from Iron Bull Strength. With a knurled, straight handle and rubber-coated heads, these dumbbells look and feel great—all while helping protect your gym floor from errant drops and scuffs. In our Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells review, we’ll take a deeper dive in these dumbbells to see which home gym owners we’d recommend them to (and who may want to look elsewhere).
No Bull About It; We’re Trusted Experts
Since 2014, Garage Gym Reviews has been the source for expert reviews on everything related to home gyms, including cardio and strength training equipment, supplements, recovery tools, and more. We’ve built a reputation on providing honest feedback and information, enlisting certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and elite-level athletes to provide their expert opinion while testing out top brands and products in the fitness industry.
For this Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells review, we had GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC and ultramarathoner and triathlete Steve Svoboda test these popular free weights. They used our dumbbell testing methodology to rate the dumbbells between 1 and 5 in key categories, including:
- Construction: We look at the materials each dumbbell is made from, as well as how resilient they are to regular wear and tear. A 3-out-of-5 score means the dumbbells are high-quality, but some components like welds, coatings, or plastic hardware may degrade over time.
- Ergonomics: How are the dumbbell head and handle shaped? In use, the dumbbells should be comfortable; not awkward or clunky. A dumbbell with an awkward shape that otherwise functions as intended earns a 3 out of 5.
- Knurling and Grip: When you’re doing lots of repetitions, you want a good grip on your dumbbells. Here, we’ll look at the handle design and how it holds up. For a 3 out of 5, the dumbbell has knurling (a textured scoring of a bar to enhance your grip), but it’s fairly passive.
- Overall Value: The price per pound of fixed dumbbells averages out near $3, depending on the materials and features. A 3 out of 5 means pricing is fair, but top scores go to dumbbells that are priced low, or offer added perks like free shipping or discounted sets.
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells have a classic hexagonal shape to prevent rolling around in your home gym. With a broad range from 5 pounds to 100 pounds, these dumbbells have a straight, fully knurled handle and rubber coating to help protect your home gym flooring—and the dumbbells—from any accidental drops.
What our tester says:
“We’re big fans of the affordable, budget-friendly home gym equipment that Iron Bull has made.”
A Quick Look at the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells
With the slogan, “Unleash the Beast,” Iron Bull Strength has a primary goal of helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts fulfill their potential in strength training. To help achieve this, the brand offers a wide range of quality (but budget-conscious) home gym equipment, from knee sleeves and weightlifting belts to power racks and weight benches.
Iron Bull offers several different types of fixed dumbbell sets and dumbbell racks: Round ceramic dumbbells, urethane dumbbells, and rubber dumbbells with either round or hex-shaped heads. (We’re focusing on their rubber hex dumbbells in this review.)
Whichever dumbbells you choose, they can be an effective way to strength train, as a 2023 systematic review1 found that free weight training was just as effective as machine-based training. In a similar vein, a 2009 study2 found free-weight squats engaged more stabilizing muscles than a Smith machine.
The Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells have a classic hex design, which can keep your dumbbells from rolling around on your home gym floor. Instead of a curved, ergonomic grip, these dumbbells feature a straight knurled handle akin to an Olympic barbell. These dumbbells range from 5 to 100 pounds, and are available in both pairs and discounted sets.
Before You Buy
- If you opt for a complete dumbbell set, make sure to have a dumbbell rack that can hold the whole range of weights. To take some guesswork out of the right type and size of home gym storage you need, Iron Bull does have some dumbbell set bundles that come equipped with a convenient dumbbell rack.
- Shipping is free only for bulk orders of $5,000 or more. Additionally, orders over $2,500 take 5% off your entire order, and orders above $10,000 take 10% off your order.
- Iron Bull lists that the Rubber Hex Dumbbells are covered by a “reliable” warranty, but it doesn’t list the warranty period. On the brand’s warranty page, they list that structural welds have a limited lifetime warranty, but it is unclear as to whether this solely covers rigs and racks or stretches to include free weights, as well. Ultimately, I’d like to see a more definitive answer on their site.
Are the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells Worth It?
The Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells cost around $2 per pound, with prices as low as $1.71 per pound if you purchase the entire set from 5 to 100 pounds. This is in line with other similar dumbbells from brands like GIANT Lifting and Bells of Steel. In some cases, this cost is even cheaper, as is the case when compared to the REP Fitness Rubber-Coated Dumbbell 2.0s.
That said, the biggest drawback on these Iron Bull rubber dumbbells is that shipping isn’t included in the price. Shipping can be an expensive additional cost, especially for free weights like dumbbells or weight plates.
You can get free shipping from Iron Bull on bulk orders over $5,000, but the entire dumbbell set costs $3,600, so you’ll need to find a dumbbell rack or a power rack to add to your purchase to get that discount. At the very least, a $2,500 order will net you a 5% discount on your total.
Despite the lack of free shipping, we still think Iron Bull has solid value, particularly in the brand’s discounted dumbbell sets, so we rate them at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. “For the price, these are a nice option that would look great in your home gym,” adds triathlete Steve Svoboda.
Still, fixed dumbbells may not work for some users in compact spaces. For such needs, I’d recommend adjustable dumbbells like the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells.
Great for:
- Home gym owners who want heavier dumbbells up to 100 lbs
- Lifters that prefer the look and feel of commercial gym dumbbells
- People looking to purchase an entire set of dumbbells rather than a single pair of adjustable weights
Not recommended for:
- People in smaller home gym spaces
- Lifters who prefer a more aggressive knurling pattern
- Those who’d rather have an ergonomic handle for improved in-hand comfort
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells Specs
| Price per pound | As low as $1.71 |
| Sold in? | Pairs and sets |
| Weight range | 5-100 lbs |
| Weight increments | 5 lbs |
| Dumbbell shape | Hex |
| Materials | Chrome-plated knurled handle, natural rubber |
| Handle diameter | 28 mm (5-15 lbs), 34 mm (20-100 lbs) |
| Warranty | Not disclosed |
Using the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Both triathlete Steve Svoboda and GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindasy Scheele, CPT, CNC, agree that the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells are a solid dumbbell for everyday use. There’s nothing flashy about them, but they hit all the marks you’d want from a good set of traditional dumbbells, whether you’re using them for bodybuilding programming or CrossFit-style workouts.
“They’re like the majority of hex dumbbells on the market,” says Lindsay after her first time with the dumbbells. “However, I do like the etched logo on the rubber head of the dumbbell. It helps them stand out and makes them feel a little higher-end.”
Steve did dumbbell bench press, overhead press, and lunges with the Iron Bull dumbbells, adding, “I really enjoyed using these dumbbells. Hex dumbbells are my preferred type of dumbbells, and the Iron Bull dumbbells feel sturdy throughout.”
Let’s dive into the particulars of these rubber hex dumbbells.
Construction
Iron Bull Strength uses a natural rubber to coat the outside of each dumbbell head, with the weight displayed on one head and the Iron Bull logo on the other. The handle finish is chrome-plated, providing protection from rust and corrosion.
The handle is then connected to the dumbbells through durable friction welding—a welding method that is solid-state, meaning a filler metal isn’t needed to join the two metals together. Instead, heat is applied through mechanical friction to forge the pieces together. Simply put, these dumbbells are made to last.
Steve was impressed with the build of the dumbbells and says, “I didn’t notice any weak points on these dumbbells during my home workouts. They’re strong and sturdy, and I think they’ll last for a long time, especially in a home gym.”
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Lindsay agrees, rating the construction at 4 out of 5. “We even performed some drop tests with these dumbbells, dropping them from various heights (up to 8 feet) and they held up fine. I didn’t see any cracks or marks from the dumbbells.” As impressive as that may be, if you want your dumbbells to last, I’d refrain from dropping them.
Optionality
These dumbbells are available in plenty of different weights, ranging from 5 to 100 pounds in 5-pound increments. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced lifter, there’s a good chance you can find a dumbbell or dumbbell range suitable for your needs.
RELATED: Adjustable Dumbbells Vs Fixed Dumbbells
Also, the dumbbells are available in both dumbbell pairs or sets, meaning these are a great option whether you’re just looking for a pair of 50-pound dumbbells or an entire set of high-quality free weights. In particular, Iron Bull offers the following weight sets:
- 5 to 50 lbs
- 5 to 75 lbs
- 5 to 100 lbs
- 55 to 75 lbs
- 80 to 100 lbs
It’s a nice touch to have this level of optionality, as you can start off with dumbbells up to 50 pounds and then add on the heavier dumbbells later on as you get stronger. These dumbbells get a 4.5 out of 5 for optionality, with a half point taken off only because shipping costs aren’t included outright.
Ergonomics and Knurling
Typically, traditional dumbbell handles come in two variations: A curved ergonomic handle or a straight, knurled handle. Iron Bull has gone with the straight handle for these rubber hex dumbbells, which both our testers liked, but ultimately, it’s a matter of preference. For example, Steve tells me that he prefers a more ergonomic grip with breaks in the knurl. “But the straight handle with this grip feels good,” he admits.
The hexagonal head of the Iron Bull dumbbells help prevent any rolling on your garage floor, which is great if you know your training area is uneven or has a slight slant. You can also use the flat side of a hex dumbbell to maintain balance for unique exercises like man makers or renegade rows. Paired with a solid handle, the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells get a 5 out of 5 for ergonomics.
Nevertheless, while we liked the feel of the handle, Lindsay wasn’t as impressed with the knurling on the grip, scoring it at 3 out of 5. “The knurl is more passive than your typical dumbbell handle,” she says, “Although they still hold chalk well. They didn’t slip and I didn’t lose my grip during any workouts, but the passive knurl is certainly something to note.”
RELATED: What Is Barbell Knurling?
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells vs GIANT Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells range from 2.5 to 100 pounds and are sold in pairs. Available in both an ergonomic handle and a straight knurled handle, these dumbbells will appeal to a variety of lifters.
What our tester says:
“These dumbbells feel great, and the straight handles feel very similar to barbell knurling. It’s a nice grip and feel.”
Hopefully, this comparison will show how similar hex dumbbells can be from one brand to another. Many dumbbells and materials come from the same factories, so aside from slight logo changes, many fixed dumbbells can look eerily similar to one another.
For example, the GIANT Lifting rubber Hex Dumbbells look near-identical to the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells when comparing specs: Both go up to 100 pounds, both have rubber-coated heads and chrome-plated handles, and both have similar handle diameters between 28 and 34 millimeters, depending on your chosen weight.
The major difference between the two comes in price and handle types. First off, the GIANT Lifting dumbbells are available with either a straight knurled handle or an ergonomic handle (we’ve tested both and they’re equally solid options). Price-wise, the Iron Bull dumbbells are cheaper…until you factor in shipping costs. Then, the totals seem to balance out.
Both can be solid options for your home gym, but if you prefer knowing your cost upfront or prefer an ergonomic grip, the GIANT Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells might be the better option for you, especially if you use a GIANT Lifting discount code. Still, if you prefer a straight handle and would rather not have too aggressive of a knurl, the Iron Bull dumbbells may be worth the cost.
| Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells | GIANT Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells | |
| Price per pound | As low as $1.71 | As low as $2.13 |
| Sold in? | Pairs and sets | Pairs and sets |
| Weight range | 5-100 lbs | 2.5-100 lbs |
| Weight increments | 5 lbs | 2.5 or 5 lbs |
| Dumbbell shape | Hex | Hex |
| Materials | Chrome-plated knurled handle, natural rubber | Chrome-finished handle, rubber-coated dumbbell head |
| Handle diameter | 28 mm (5-15 lbs), 34 mm (20-100 lbs) | 28 mm (2.5-10 lbs) 34 mm (15-100 lbs) |
| Warranty | Not disclosed | Lifetime (home use), 1 year (commercial use) |
Customer Experience
We rate the customer experience at 3.5 out of 5. Iron Bull Strength offers 30-day returns on unused, unworn items still in the original packaging and with original tags. You’ll also need a proof of purchase or receipt to verify your return.
The exact warranty period is not defined on the product page, however. On Iron Bull’s warranty page, the brand doesn’t list a warranty for dumbbells, although they state structural welds (which these dumbbells have), are covered with a limited lifetime warranty. I’d like to see a more specific period for these rubber hex dumbbells, though. To answer any questions you may have before purchasing, there are multiple ways to contact Iron Bull: Phone, email, contact form, and live chat.
Ordering the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Although you can grab some Iron Bull Strength gear and accessories on Amazon, the Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells are available only through the brand’s website at the time of writing. They’re available in a variety of sets (including sets with a dumbbell rack) or you can purchase pairs of individual weights.
For orders in the United States, Iron Bull primarily uses USPS or UPS, unless you purchase “Items of substantial weight or large orders.” In these cases, they’ll ship freight. If you’re buying more than a pair of dumbbells, you can expect the weights to be shipped freight.
Customer Reviews
As of this writing, there are only two reviews on Iron Bull’s website concerning the rubber hex dumbbells. Both are 5-star reviews, and both praise the dumbbells, albeit with limited insight. One even does it in French, calling the dumbbell set a, “Produit de qualité supérieur,” or a top-quality product, according to Google Translate.
Usually, we prefer to have more customer reviews to get a better sense of the home gym community’s experience with fitness equipment, so we’ll be sure to update this section as more testimonials come in.
Final Verdict of Our Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells Review
If you’re in the market for some classic rubber hex dumbbells, the Iron Bull Strength Rubber Hex Dumbbells are certainly worth a look. With high value, durable construction, and a good feel while in use, these dumbbells can be a solid pick for a fixed dumbbell set. “I liked just about everything about these dumbbells and would use them again,” adds GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you browse through your options for dumbbells:
- If you’re looking for multiple weights and have limited space, a pair of adjustable dumbbells may be a better option than several dumbbell pairs and a large dumbbell rack.
- The knurling on these leans toward a passive feel, so you may want to consider other options if you prefer a more aggressive texture and grip.
- Although Iron Bull has a lower price per pound than similar competitors, shipping isn’t included (unless you spend $5,000 or more), which will likely make the price pretty comparable to brands that include free shipping.
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells have a classic hexagonal shape to prevent rolling around in your home gym. With a broad range from 5 pounds to 100 pounds, these dumbbells have a straight, fully knurled handle and rubber coating to help protect your home gym flooring—and the dumbbells—from any accidental drops.
Product Brand: Iron Bull
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 1,100.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.2
Iron Bull Rubber Hex Dumbbells Review: FAQs
Are rubber or iron dumbbells better?
It’s hard to say that either rubber or iron dumbbells are better than the other option, as each suits different needs for a home gym. Rubber-coated dumbbells help protect your home gym flooring, as the rubber can absorb shock and reduce noise if they’re dropped (which we don’t recommend). Iron dumbbells don’t have any layer of protection, so they’re more apt to damage your floor or equipment if dropped.
Iron dumbbells, on the other hand, are often a cheaper alternative to rubber-coated dumbbells, meaning these can be a great pick for folks on a budget. Ultimately, which is the better option will depend on your preferences and goals.
Are rubber hex dumbbells durable?
Rubber hex dumbbells can be a solid, durable option for home gym owners for a few reasons. Most notably, the rubber coating on the exterior of the dumbbell heads helps protect both the dumbbell and your gym floor in the event of an accidental drop. The dumbbell handle is often chrome-plated, as well, which can help resist rust and corrosion over the years. Additionally, the hexagonal shape keeps the dumbbells from rolling around on your gym floor between sets.
What brand makes the best dumbbells?
There are plenty of great options for dumbbells (fixed and adjustable) from brands like Rogue, REP Fitness, and Titan. Which is ideal or best for you will vary depending on your budget, fitness level, and goals. If you’re looking for a fixed dumbbell, our top recommendation for most are the GIANT Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells, which have a broad range of weights and optionality. Plus, they have a solid construction.
If you’re instead in the market for a pair of adjustable dumbbells, we typically recommend the Snode Adjustable Dumbbells for most. They can go up to 80 pounds and have a two-year warranty that covers drops from 32 inches or lower.
References
- Haugen, M. E., Vårvik, F. T., Larsen, S., Haugen, A. S., van den Tillaar, R., & Bjørnsen, T. (2023). Effect of free-weight vs. machine-based strength training on maximal strength, hypertrophy and jump performance – a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC sports science, medicine & rehabilitation, 15(1), 103. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-023-00713-4
- Schwanbeck, S., Chilibeck, P. D., & Binsted, G. (2009). A comparison of free weight squat to Smith machine squat using electromyography. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 23(9), 2588–2591. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181b1b181
