The Nuobell 2-32kg (5 – 80lbs) adjustable dumbbells offer an excellent weight range, a simple and effective adjustment mechanism, and stylish design, writes MF’s editor Isaac Williams.
If you’re looking for the best adjustable dumbbells, this smart-looking bit of kit could be just the ticket, with a slick adjustment mechanism for all your lifting needs. But how does it perform on test?
Men’s Fitness verdict
With a seamless weight-switching mechanism, effective grip, and stylish design, they’re easy on the eye as well as the hands. All in all, a handsome addition to any home gym.- Wide weight range
- Smart-looking bit of kit
- Slick adjustment mechanism
- Option to add a hip-heigh stand
- Handles could be grippier
How we tested the best adjustable dumbbells
Our testers are experienced product reviewers of all manner of fitness kit. We tested this adjustable dumbbell at various weights and through a range of exercises at high rep ranges to see how it handles, assessing it in terms of grip, comfort, and weight range. We then provided an overall score, taking build quality, performance and price into consideration.
Nuobell 2-32kg (5 – 80lbs) Adjustable Dumbbells features
Intuitive design, slick looks and a competitive weight range make the Nuobell 2-32kg (5 – 80lbs) – the brainchild of Swedish brand NUO Athletics – one of the best adjustable dumbbell systems we had the pleasure of testing.
The one thing adjustable dumbbells need to get right is the mechanism for switching between weights – whether it’s a dial, button or some other device. In my experience, Nuobell has got it spot on, with a seamless twist of the handle while the dumbbells are in their cradles. That allowed me to seamlessly cycle between the different weights in an instant – perfect for switching from heavier dumbbell back exercises to lighter dumbbell triceps exercises. Simply turn right to decrease; left to increase.
For anyone confused by how adjustable dumbbells actually work, once you’ve selected your weight (indicated by a number on the handles), you then simply lift the handle out of the stand and the required plates will stay attached.
Nuobell 2-32kg (5 – 80lbs) Adjustable Dumbbells performance
Those plates avoid the common problem with adjustable dumbbells of rattling around when you’re lifting. The handles are knurled (criss-crossed with grooves) for added grip too. That grip is effective most of the time, but I did find high-intensity dumbbell workouts – and consequent sweaty palms – made them slightly slippery. For regular strength training, though, you won’t have any issues. And chalk or gloves can always be used for a stronger grip.
The word ‘stylish’ features heavily in the brand’s mission statement, and it shines through with these. Although the weights (sold in pairs) total a hefty 32kg (80bs) each, there’s an elegance to their construction. So they’re easy on the eye as well as the hands. All in all, a handsome addition to any home gym.
