The 7 Best Urethane Dumbbells For CrossFit (2024)
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In CrossFit, having the right equipment can make all the difference in your workout performance and equipment longevity. Dumbbells are versatile and indispensable tools in any CrossFit box or home gym.
Urethane dumbbells, in particular, have gained popularity due to their durability, noise reduction, and floor-friendly properties. In 2024, the dumbbell market today offers many options, making choosing the best urethane dumbbells for your CrossFit needs challenging.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through my top seven urethane dumbbells for CrossFit that I have seen in my 12-plus years as a CrossFit coach and Physical Therapist.
I’ve considered factors such as durability, grip comfort, weight capacity, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a box owner looking to upgrade your equipment or a dedicated CrossFitter in need of essential home gym equipment, our list will help you find the perfect urethane dumbbells to elevate your WODs and strength training sessions.
Best Urethane Dumbbells For 2024 Shortlist
Best Overall Value: Titan Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
Best For Quality: Rogue Urethane Dumbbells
Best For Durability: Rep Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
Best For Exercise Variety: Vulcan Strength Urethane Dumbbells
Best For Metcons: XMark Urethane Dumbbells
Best For Beginners: Sunny Health and Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
Best Price: Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells
What Are The 7 Best Urethane Dumbbells for CrossFit in 2024?
Titan Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
The Titan Fitness Urethane Dumbbells stand out with their high-quality construction and thoughtful design. Crafted from round urethane molded around solid steel handles, these dumbbells offer superior durability and shock resistance.
The chrome-finished handles feature medium-depth knurling, ensuring a secure grip during intense workouts. Available in pairs from 5 to 120 pounds in 5-pound increments, they cater to a wide range of fitness levels and exercises.
Features & Benefits:
- Exceptional durability thanks to urethane construction
- Odorless, unlike traditional rubber dumbbells
- Superior shock resistance for long-lasting use
- Knurled handles for improved grip
- Easy-to-read white print numbers for quick weight identification
- Sleek black matte finish for a professional look
- Wide weight range to suit various exercises and fitness levels
My Take: Best Overall Value
If you’re looking for the best overall value in CrossFit dumbbells, the Titan Fitness Urethane Dumbbells are hard to beat. These dumbbells offer an excellent balance of durability, functionality, and versatility that makes them a smart long-term investment for your home gym or CrossFit box.
The urethane construction significantly outlasts traditional rubber, maintaining its shape and appearance even after repeated drops and intense use.
This longevity, combined with the odorless nature of urethane, means you won’t be replacing these dumbbells anytime soon – saving you money in the long run.
The wide weight range allows you to progress in your training without needing to buy new equipment constantly. Whether you’re a beginner starting with lighter weights or an advanced athlete pushing heavy lifts, these dumbbells have you covered.
The attention to detail in the design, from the knurled handles for secure grips during sweaty workouts to the easy-to-read weight markings, enhances your training experience. The sleek look also adds a touch of professionalism to your workout space.
Rogue Urethane Dumbbells
Rogue Urethane Dumbbells offer a premium design with solid steel heads coated in durable urethane plating. The 6″ straight hardened chrome handles feature medium-grade knurling for optimal grip.
These dumbbells are available in pairs from 5 to 150 pounds in 5 lb increments, with a sleek black matte finish and clear weight markings.
Features & Benefits:
- High-quality construction with solid steel heads and urethane plating
- Shock-absorbent design to protect flooring
- Consistent 6″ handle length across all weights for familiar feel
- Medium-grade knurling for secure grip without being overly aggressive
- Wide weight range (5-150 lbs) to suit all fitness levels
- Low-maintenance and durable, retaining appearance over time
- Precision-machined handles with varying diameters for optimal grip as weight increases
My Take: Highest Quality
For CrossFit athletes and gym owners demanding the highest quality dumbbells, Rogue Urethane Dumbbells stand out as a top-tier option. These dumbbells highlight Rogue’s commitment to premium fitness equipment, offering unparalleled durability, performance, and aesthetics.
The solid steel construction with urethane plating ensures these dumbbells can withstand the rigors of intense CrossFit workouts.
The shock-absorbent design not only protects your flooring but also contributes to the dumbbells’ longevity, maintaining their appearance and functionality even after repeated drops and heavy use.
One of the standout features is the consistent 6″ handle length across all weights. This uniformity allows for a familiar feel regardless of the weight you’re using, which can be particularly beneficial during CrossFit workouts where you might be rapidly switching between different weights.
The medium-grade knurling strikes an excellent balance, providing a secure grip without being overly aggressive on your hands during high-rep workouts.
The attention to detail is evident in the varying mm handle diameters (31mm for weights up to 45lbs, 34mm for 50lbs and up), ensuring optimal grip across the entire weight range.
This, combined with the clear weight markings and sleek black matte finish, makes for a professional-grade product that looks as good as it performs.
While the initial investment may be higher compared to other options, the Rogue Urethane Dumbbells offer exceptional value for those prioritizing quality. Their durability means they’ll outlast lower quality alternatives, potentially saving money in the long run.
Rep Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
Rep Fitness Urethane Dumbbells feature solid steel construction with a cast polyurethane coating, offering high durability. They have innovative knurled handles for a secure grip, round weight heads with clear markings, and are available in pairs from 2.5kg to 60kg (also offered in pounds). The dumbbells are machined for weight accuracy and feature welded construction for long-term stability.
Features & Benefits:
- Extremely durable cast polyurethane coating
- Abrasion-resistant and age-resistant finish
- Innovative knurled handles for a secure grip
- Clear weight markings for easy identification
- Available in both metric and imperial measurements
- Offered in various set options for flexible purchasing
- Welded construction ensures long-term stability
My Take: Best For Durability
When it comes to durability in CrossFit dumbbells, Rep Fitness Urethane Dumbbells truly shine. These dumbbells are engineered to withstand the rigors of high-volume, intense CrossFit workouts, making them an excellent choice for both commercial gyms and serious home fitness enthusiasts.
The solid steel construction coated with cast polyurethane is the cornerstone of these dumbbells’ durability. This ultra-tough, abrasion-resistant coating not only protects the weights from damage but also ensures they maintain their appearance over time.
This is particularly crucial in a CrossFit setting, where equipment often endures drops, impacts, and constant use.
The innovative knurled handles are a standout feature, providing a comfortable yet secure grip across all weight ranges. This is essential for CrossFit workouts that often involve high-rep sets or exercises where maintaining a firm grip is crucial for safety and performance.
The welded construction, where the weight heads are machined and then securely attached to the handle, adds another layer of durability.
This design ensures the dumbbells can withstand vigorous use without the risk of the heads coming loose – a common issue with less robust dumbbells.
Similarly to Rogue and Titan urethane dumbbells, the initial investment in Rep Fitness Urethane Dumbbells may be higher than some alternatives, but their exceptional durability makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
If you want to dumbbells that are durable and reasonably priced then Rep Fitness is your best bet.
Vulcan Strength Urethane Dumbbells
Vulcan Prime Urethane Dumbbells offer a solid steel core with a high-grade 90 Shore Hardness urethane head. They feature hard chrome-plated handles with medium knurling, rounded inner and outer edges for comfort, and clear grey or white numeral increments. Available in weights from 5 to 150 pounds, with varying handle diameters for different weight ranges.
Features & Benefits:
- High-grade urethane construction for durability
- Odorless, unlike typical rubber dumbbells
- Comfortable rounded edges for body contact exercises
- Clear weight markings for easy identification
- Available in various set configurations
- Affordable price point for urethane dumbbells
- Option for custom logos on large orders
My Take: Best For Exercise Variety
Vulcan Strength Urethane Dumbbells excel at accommodating a wide variety of exercises, making them an excellent choice for CrossFit athletes who need versatility in their workouts.
The thoughtful design of these dumbbells, particularly the rounded inner and outer edges, sets them apart for exercise variety. This feature makes them exceptionally comfortable for movements where the dumbbell comes in contact with your body.
Whether you’re performing dumbbell bench presses, cleans, overhead presses, or push presses, the rounded edges reduce discomfort and allow for smoother transitions between exercises – a crucial factor in CrossFit’s varied and intense workouts.
The range of available weights, from 5 to 150 pounds in 5 pound increments, ensures that you have the right weight for virtually any exercise.
This extensive range accommodates everything from light accessory work to heavy strength training, supporting the diverse nature of CrossFit programming.
The dumbbells’ construction also contributes to their versatility. The solid steel core provides the necessary stability for exercises requiring precise control, while the high-grade urethane coating offers durability for high-impact movements.
The medium knurling on the hard chrome-plated handles strikes a balance between grip security and comfort, allowing for extended use across various exercises without excessive hand fatigue.
Another factor that enhances exercise variety is the change in handle diameter for heavier weights.
The 32mm diameter for dumbbells up to 100 pounds and 34mm for 105 pounds and up ensures optimal grip across the entire weight range, allowing users to maintain proper form and control regardless of the exercise or weight used.
Their design considerations make them suitable for everything from traditional strength training to high-intensity functional fitness workouts without compromising on quality, making them a solid investment for any CrossFit athlete.
XMARK Urethane Dumbbells
XMark Urethane Dumbbells feature a unique 12-sided design with CPU urethane coating. They have hard chrome straight handles with comfortable knurling, prominently displayed weight on endcaps, and securely welded heads. Available in pairs from 5 to 75 lbs, these dumbbells are designed for durability, precision, and comfort.
Features & Benefits:
- 12-sided unique design prevents rolling during workouts
- High-quality CPU urethane coating for durability
- Comfortable knurling for secure grip without harshness
- Clear weight display on endcaps for easy identification
- Welded heads for enhanced safety and reliability
- Odor-resistant material
- Versatile weight range suitable for various exercises
My Take: Best For Metcons
XMark Urethane Dumbbells stand out as an excellent choice for metcons in CrossFit, offering a combination of features that make them particularly well-suited for fast-paced, varied workouts.
The reason is the 12-sided design. This unique shape prevents the dumbbells from rolling away when placed on the ground like round dumbbells might. Which can be a huge benefit when quick transitions between exercises occur.
In a circuit training scenario, where you might be moving rapidly from snatches to dumbbell push-ups to renegade rows to floor presses, etc., this stability ensures you’re not wasting precious seconds chasing after rolling weights.
The comfortable knurling on the hard chrome handles is also a significant asset during high-volume circuit training. It provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive, allowing you to maintain control of the dumbbells even as fatigue sets in during later rounds of a circuit.
This is particularly important in CrossFit-style workouts where you might be handling the dumbbells for extended periods or with sweaty hands.
The durability of these dumbbells, thanks to the CPU urethane coating and welded dumbbell heads, makes them ideal for the wear and tear of frequent circuit training.
They can withstand repeated drops and impacts that are common in high-intensity workouts without showing significant wear or losing their structural integrity.
The weight range available (5 to 75 lbs) is suitable for a wide variety of exercises commonly included in CrossFit circuits. From lightweight movements like dumbbell snatches or Turkish get-ups to heavier lifts like rows or farmer’s carries, these dumbbells can accommodate diverse programming needs.
While the maximum weight of 75 lbs might be limiting for some strength-focused exercises, it’s more than sufficient for most circuit training needs in CrossFit, where the focus is often on moderate weights and higher repetitions.
Sunny Health and Fitness Urethane Dumbbells
Sunny Health and Fitness Urethane Dumbbells are made with high-quality polyurethane plates and solid steel handles. They feature chrome-finished handles with diamond knurling for improved grip. These dumbbells are available in weights ranging from 5 to 50 lbs, have a compact design, and are odorless.
Features & Benefits:
- Durable polyurethane construction
- Corrosion-resistant chrome handles with diamond knurling
- Compact size (9.69L x 6.06W x 5H inches) ideal for small spaces
- Odorless design
- Floor and shelf-friendly
- Suitable for all fitness levels
- Wide range of motion for versatile training
My Take: Best For Beginners
Sunny Health and Fitness Urethane Dumbbells are an excellent choice for beginners entering the world of CrossFit. These dumbbells offer a combination of features that cater specifically to those starting their fitness journey while still providing room for growth.
The weight range of 5 to 50 lbs is particularly suited for beginners. It provides a gradual progression pathway, allowing new CrossFit enthusiasts to start light and incrementally increase weight as they build strength and confidence. This range covers most exercises a beginner would encounter in introductory CrossFit workouts, from light movements like dumbbell snatches to more challenging exercises like goblet squats or rows.
While the maximum weight of 50 lbs might eventually be limiting for some exercises as beginners progress, it’s more than sufficient for most to establish a solid foundation in CrossFit movements and build significant strength.
The diamond knurled texture on the chrome-finished handles is a significant advantage for beginners. It provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive, which is crucial for those still developing their grip strength and technique. This feature helps beginners maintain proper form and control during exercises, reducing the risk of accidents due to slipping weights.
The compact size of these dumbbells is another plus for beginners, especially those setting up home gyms. The space-saving design allows new CrossFitters to equip their workout area without requiring a large dedicated space, making it easier to commit to regular training.
The floor and shelf-friendly design is another thoughtful feature for beginners. It provides added protection for home workout spaces, which is important for those who might be exercising on non-specialized flooring or storing weights on regular shelving.
For CrossFit beginners or box owners looking to equip a beginners’ area, Sunny Health and Fitness Urethane Dumbbells offer an excellent balance of quality, functionality, and user-friendliness.
Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells
Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells are made of high-quality cast iron with a thick urethane coating. They feature an ergonomic design with medium knurling on the handle for a secure grip. These dumbbells are compact, durable, and designed to resist breakdown from temperature changes or sunlight exposure.
Features & Benefits:
- Affordable price point at approximately $1.97 per pound
- Durable urethane coating protects against rust and deformation
- Medium knurling on handle for secure grip
- Compact design for easy storage
- Versatile for various strength training exercises
- Floor-friendly coating to prevent scratches and damage
My Take: Best For Price
When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck in the CrossFit dumbbell market, Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells stand out as an excellent budget-friendly option.
These dumbbells offer many of the benefits of higher-priced urethane dumbbells at a fraction of the cost, making them an attractive choice for home gym athlete or CrossFit boxes working with a tighter budget.
At approximately $1.97 per pound, these dumbbells are significantly more affordable than many competitors in the urethane dumbbell category. Despite the lower price point, Yes4All doesn’t skimp on essential features that CrossFit athletes need in their equipment.
The high-quality cast iron core covered with thick urethane provides durability that can withstand the demands of intense CrossFit workouts.
The urethane coating offers protection against rust and deformation, ensuring these dumbbells can handle drops and impacts without deteriorating quickly. This durability is crucial in CrossFit, where equipment often endures high-intensity use.
The ergonomic design with medium knurling on the handle is a particularly valuable feature for CrossFit training. It allows for a secure grip during various movements, from heavy lifts to high-rep metabolic conditioning workouts.
This is essential for maintaining proper form and safety during the diverse exercises typical in CrossFit programming.
The compact size is another plus, especially for home gym setups or CrossFit boxes with limited space. You can easily store these dumbbells without taking up too much room, allowing for more efficient use of your training area.
It’s worth noting that while these dumbbells offer great value, they may not have all the bells and whistles of more premium brands. The weight range and set configurations might be more limited, and they may not have the same high-end feel as more expensive options.
However, for CrossFit athletes looking to equip their gym with quality urethane dumbbells without breaking the bank, Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells offer an excellent compromise between affordability and functionality.
What Are Urethane Dumbbells?
Urethane dumbbells are a type of dumbbell with a solid metal core, but rather than rubber coating, they use a urethane material that has various advantages over similar rubber dumbbells. Urethane, also known as polyurethane, is a synthetic man-made material with the flexibility of rubber but the durability of plastic.
Advantages of Urethane Dumbbells
Durability
Unlike metal or rubber dumbbells, urethane dumbbells are more resistant to chips, cuts, and abrasions commonly seen with high-intensity use, such as in CrossFit gyms.
Due to the durability of the material, urethane dumbbells can maintain their integrity regardless of storage, dropping, or other impact activities.
Noise Reduction
Since the metal coating of urethane dumbbells is coated with urethane, which shares properties with rubber, they are great for reducing noise when dropped after your last repetition.
This makes them optimal for home use, or those who train in their garage when others are sleeping or in fitness facilities in commercial areas during work hours and want to minimize disruptions to others.
Temperature Stability
It’s no secret that fitness facilities such as CrossFit gyms, powerlifting gyms, and other warehouse facilities can vary in temperature throughout the year.
Extreme heat or cold temperatures can disrupt rubber coatings and make them brittle over time, leading to breakdown and increased expense when new pairs need to be purchased.
Urethane dumbbells, however, are more stable in extreme temperatures and can, therefore, last longer before new pairs need to be purchased. This can keep overhead costs lower for the budget-conscious athlete or gym owner.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Urethane Dumbbells for CrossFit
Material
When you are deciding which urethane dumbbells to buy, you will want to look for high-grade urethane, such as 90 Shore A or higher. This ensures high quality and that they will be resistant to high impact, cuts from the rack, and abrasions from gravel or cement floors.
If you can, look for dumbbells with a thick coating to further increase their lifespan.
Grip Comfort
The grip on the dumbbells can vary quite a bit, so knowing what to look for will help you avoid having to swap or return your purchase.
Your best bet will be to look for a medium knurled handle on chrome-plated handles, which will provide a secure grip without being too abrasive on your hands during CrossFit workouts with high-volume repetitions.
Depending on your hand size, you may also want to look into different handle diameters to avoid your grip strength, limiting the amount of weight you can use.
Weight Capacity
Depending on your fitness level or the average fitness level of your gym, the weight increments you choose to purchase will be something to consider.
If you are looking for a set of dumbbells that can be used for strength progressions, heavier weights are needed.
But if your fitness goals don’t include heavy strength training, then a set of urethane dumbbells with lower weights will be fine.
The dumbbell sets typically jump 5-10 pounds, and a set of 5-100 pounds will usually cover various fitness needs.
Pricing
Purchasing a set of urethane dumbbells is definitely an investment, but fortunately, it is usually a one-time investment because of how durable they are. In my 15+ years of experience coaching and training, I have only made one or two purchases of dumbbells.
As long as you consider all of the factors mentioned above and stick to high-quality brands like the ones mentioned, you should have the same experience with your purchase.
That said, everyone has their own personal preference concerning the investment, so consider what you are willing to spend and opt for the dumbbells that make the most sense for you as well as investigate If a lifetime warranty exists.
If you are more price-conscious, consider the Yes4All Urethane Dumbbells or stick to single pairs and accumulate a full set over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Urethane Dumbbells
Are urethane dumbbells worth the investment?
I believe so, yes! Urethane dumbbells are worth the investment because you will have them for years. Considering the cost per use, most of them are quite cheap. I’d venture to say that you will use the dumbbells at least 2-3 times per week, and over five-plus years, we are talking about dollars per use or less.
How long do urethane dumbbells typically last?
If you take good care of them and avoid excessive impact and abuse beyond typical training, you can expect your urethane dumbbells to remain in good condition for 10-20 years. As I mentioned, I purchased a set of urethane dumbbells almost 10 years ago, and they are still in great condition.
Can urethane dumbbells be used outdoors?
They most certainly can be used outside the urethane material is more resistant to abrasions and intense weather when compared to metal or rubber. But, remember that although they are better at handling outdoor training, the outdoor environment can decrease their lifespan with chronic outdoor use.
Final Thoughts on The Best Urethane Dumbbells For CrossFit
Investing in high-quality urethane dumbbells is a game-changer for any CrossFit enthusiast or box owner. The seven options we’ve explored in this guide represent the cream of the crop for 2024, each offering unique features to suit different needs and preferences.
From superior durability to enhanced grip comfort, these urethane dumbbells are designed to withstand the rigors of intense CrossFit workouts while providing a premium exercise experience.
Remember, the best urethane dumbbells for you will depend on your specific requirements, budget, and training goals.
Consider factors such as weight range, handle design, and overall build quality when deciding.
By choosing one of these top-rated options, you’re not just buying dumbbells; you’re investing in equipment that will support your CrossFit journey for years to come.
Don’t wait to elevate your training experience. Click on the links provided to check the different brands, the latest prices and availability of these top-rated urethane dumbbells. Make your purchase today and feel the difference in your next WOD!