Nearly all swim workout enthusiasts are always up for the low-impact exercises that don’t leave their joints sore after a session. Water aerobics is the most common low-impact water exercise that many people prefer to get a workout under their belt.
Realistically, all you need for water aerobics is a swimsuit, but you don’t want to be plain Jane when it comes to fun and workout. There are various equipment you can use to boost your workout efficacy and enjoyment, like water dumbbells.
In this article, I have covered a detailed analysis of the best water dumbbells on the market. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- What Are the Water Dumbbells?
- Barbells vs. Dumbbells
- What Are the Best Water Weights?
- Comparison Chart
- The 13 Best Water Dumbbells Reviews
- Trademark Innovations Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells
- TheraBand Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
- AmazonBasics Neoprene Dumbbell Pairs and Sets
- TheraBand Advanced Heavy Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
- Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Water Dumbbell Set
- Bintiva Aqua Water Dumbbell Set
- Kiefer Water Workout Dumbbells – Pair
- Trademark Innovations Triangular Aquatic Water Dumbells
- ZEYU SPORTS Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbbells
- Speedo Unisex Aqua Fitness Water Dumbbells
- Thera-Band Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells
- Power Systems Water Dumbbells – Pair
- Moving Free Water Fill Plastic Dumbbells
- How to Choose the Best Water Dumbbells?
- Some Popular Exercises With Water Dumbbells
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Swim Network Overview
What Are the Water Dumbbells?
Water dumbbells are water exercises equipment that are pretty simple but oddly difficult to use. You can incorporate them into your daily aerobics or other water exercises to strengthen your arms, chest, shoulders, back, and core.
When it comes to shapes, sizes, and colors, you are spoilt for choice. They also vary in weight and buoyancy levels. Most of them are made with EVA foam material for buoyancy and low water absorption. Though some of them can be filled with water for added weight resistance during workouts.
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Barbells vs. Dumbbells
The barbells vs. dumbbells debate has grown old. Each of them has its own roles and can help you reach your workout goals. Your pick primarily depends on your mass and strength gain needs. But just in case you are unable to pick, here are some facts about each one’s capabilities.
- Barbells work well for compound movements like squats, lunges, and deadlifts. They are also well-suited for isolation exercises like the preacher curl, barbell curl, wrist curl, and lying triceps extensions.
Dumbbells, on top of working well for compound and isolation exercises, can help improve your form and correct muscle imbalances because they allow for unilateral movements. - Barbells are the best when it comes to mass and strength gains because they have a heavier weight. You can also work more muscle groups simultaneously with barbells.
Dumbbells, on the other hand, are best for activating muscles. They will work your weaker muscles and prevent strength imbalances during training.
What Are the Best Water Weights?
The market is flooded with water dumbbells, and singling out the best can be a tad confusing. Here is a list of the top-rated water dumbbells you can get in the market.
- Best Overall: Trademark Innovations Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells
“They do not absorb water. Affordable. Durable. Multiple color options. Highly buoyant- A perfect all-around option.” - Runner Up: TheraBand Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
“Resistance options. Comfortable grip. Color options. Durable. Multipurpose- A worthy investment.” - Best Budget: AmazonBasics Neoprene Dumbbell Pairs and Sets
“Multiple resistance level options. Easy to use and store. Don’t absorb water. One year warranty. Quick identification with printed numbers and color codes- What more would you need with all these features at a fair price?” - Best for Water Aerobics: TheraBand Advanced Heavy Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
“Resistance and buoyancy level options. They can be used for various exercises. Comfortable. High-quality foam- Perfectly fits the bill for your water aerobics class requirements.” - Best for Beginners: Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Water Dumbbell Set
“Affordable. Durable. Comfortable grip. Great resistance level. Color options- All you need to kick off your water exercise regimen.” - Best for Aqua Training: Bintiva Aqua Water Dumbbell Set
“Intense aqua training. Quick-dry. Great buoyancy. Incredibly lightweight. Durable caps that don’t fall off. Comfortable grip-No better way to level up your fitness.”
Comparison Chart
In this section, you can quickly compare the products’ features and capabilities to be able to pick what perfectly suits your needs.
The 13 Best Water Dumbbells Reviews
In this section, you will know the detailed information of each product as well as its pros and cons for your convenience.
Trademark Innovations Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
These dumbbells are the epitome of simplicity and effectiveness. They were my top pick because none of the other products could match up to their efficacy, usability, and affordability. Trademark Innovations don’t disappoint with their weights, and these tick all the checkboxes of what makes an excellent dumbbell.
They come in the classic dumbbell design in 6 vibrant colors. They are made with EVA foam, thus durable, highly buoyant and dry quickly between uses. The material also feels great in the hands, so you don’t have to worry about not owning a pair of swimming gloves. Check out Top 17 Best Swimming Gloves for a good pair.
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You won’t have to break the bank to crush it in the pool with these dumbbells. They are good for the price. In fact, they are much more affordable than most products reviewed on this list. With their effective construction, they can come in handy for various water exercises that will help build your form and keep fit.
The dumbbells hold up pretty well in the sun and chlorine, you can bring them to aerobics classes for a while, and they can be used by anyone above 14 years old.
Pros
- They do not absorb water.
- Affordable.
- Durable.
- Multiple color options.
- Highly buoyant.
Cons
- The end caps fall out easily.
Here is a video review of the wholesome Trademark Innovations Triangular Aquatic Water Dumbells.
TheraBand Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
(Runner Up)
TheraBand is a trusted name in therapy, and you must have come across or heard of their resistance bands and therapy tools. Well, they make dumbbells too with unparalleled capabilities.
With these dumbbells, you get to enjoy a variety of resistance and buoyancy levels. They come in 3 sizes and 3 colors; light (red), medium (green), and large (blue). This gives you the liberty of choosing the intensity of your workouts.
If you are an avid water worker or swim workout enthusiast, you would get the most out of these dumbbells during therapy and aerobics. They will help you increase your range of motion, flexibility, and strength.
The weights offer a comfortable grip and are highly durable. The only downside to these dumbbells is that they don’t dry fast.
Pros
- Resistance options.
- Comfortable grip.
- Color options.
- Durable.
- Multipurpose.
Cons
- Not quick-dry.
AmazonBasics Neoprene Dumbbell Pairs and Sets
(Best Budget)
These are the cheapest dumbbells on this list, so if you are a sucker for cheap thrills, grab a pair already. They don’t operate cheaply though, there are a couple of features that make them stand out.
The dumbbells are made with foam and coated with neoprene in a unique hexagonal shape. Their shape makes them easy to store and use because they would not roll away when placed on the floor. They are waterproof dumbbells which are very rare btw! The neoprene coating gives them an easy grip which guarantees you a secure hold during workouts.
The dumbbells are not only color-coded in 12 colors for resistance level identification, but also clearly printed with a number on each cap end. In case you are working with different sets of weights, you will easily pick these ones out.
When it comes to resistance variety, no dumbbells stand in their way. They come in a wide range of resistance levels from 1 pound up to 20 pounds. From all these options, you can pick what you can comfortably work with.
The AmazonBasics dumbbells are an excellent choice for fitness classes and at-home workout routines. What’s more, you are offered a limited one year warranty, which makes it such a great buy.
Pros
- Multiple resistance level options.
- Easy to use and store because of unique hexagonal shape.
- Don’t absorb water.
- One year warranty.
- Quick identification with printed numbers and color codes.
Cons
- Some customers have complained of nicks in the rubber and the foam eating through the finish.
- Weak build.
TheraBand Advanced Heavy Water Weights Aquatic Dumbbells
(Best for Water Aerobics)
This is another fun accessory and water exercise equipment from TheraBand. These dumbbells are ideal for all kinds of water exercises and particularly great for water aerobics and aqua Zumba.
They are made with high-quality foam and are available in 3 resistance and buoyancy levels to match your training needs. You’ll be able to differentiate the levels using 3 colors; red (light), green (medium), and blue (heavy).
These water weights will increase flexibility on your back, strengthen your lower back, and build your abs, especially if you do exercises like water walking, rowing, and pushdowns. They are also great for flexing and extending your elbows and shoulders.
The dumbbells can come in handy for aquatic physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and other general pool workout activities as well. They are professionally approved.
Pros
- Resistance and buoyancy level options.
- They can be used for various exercises.
- Comfortable.
- High-quality foam.
Cons
- Not quick-dry.
Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Water Dumbbell Set
(Best for Beginners)
If you just joined a local aquatic class for water exercises, Zumba or aerobics, then these dumbbells would come in handy on your fitness journey. They are a perfect choice for beginners because they are affordable and have various favorable features for swim workout newbies.
They come in the traditional dumbbell design in three colors; blue, black, and purple. The dumbbells are made with EVA foam, which is durable, has low water absorption and provides you with floatation. But, you cannot depend on the weights as life-saving floatation, it is safe to get a floating device like pool floats.
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Thanks to the soft pads on the weights’ handles, you can comfortably use the weights for longer workout sessions. Providing you with additional resistance, they will help your muscles build endurance and increase flexibility. You will also be able to burn a lot of calories since they add some weight to your aerobic routine.
The dumbbells pretty much come through for whatever workout results you are seeking. Be it sculpting your abs, toning your upper body, or defining your chest. All considered, they are an excellent choice for beginners.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Durable.
- Comfortable grip.
- Great resistance levels.
- Color options.
Cons
- No resistance level options.
Bintiva Aqua Water Dumbbell Set
(Best for Aqua Training)
This is your best bet if you are up for intense aqua fitness. They will help strengthen your shoulders, chest, back, and core muscles. Beginners might find these dumbbells too intense and might be better off looking elsewhere.
They are made with EVA foam. This means high buoyancy levels and low water absorption. The professional-grade foam makes them highly durable with maximum resistance. The inner pipe of the dumbbells is made with non-PVC material then padded with cushion for premium comfort and grip.
Depending on your training needs, you can choose your desired resistance level from the 3 options offered; small, medium and large. You also have a choice when it comes to colors. You can get them in green, blue or yellow.
Pros
- Intense aqua training.
- Quick-dry.
- Great buoyancy.
- Incredibly lightweight.
- Durable caps that don’t fall off.
- Comfortable grip.
Cons
- Too intense for beginners.
Kiefer Water Workout Dumbbells – Pair
(Best for Individual Fitness)
Kiefer is a trusted name in the swim gear industry. Turns out, they make water aerobics exercise equipment too. Just like most of their products, their water dumbbells are unique in both design and functionality.
The Kiefer dumbbells are not your typical foam dumbbells. They are made out of plastic planes in a rare design. The dumbbells are super light and will offer you a good deal of resistance in your movements through the water.
The coolest thing about these weights is that you can level up resistance by filling its hollow handles with water or sand. Also, you will always have balanced resistance no matter how you hold them in your hands because of their design. This makes them suitable for individual fitness, therapy, and water aerobics.
The dumbbells come in 2 colors; red and yellow, and since they are made with plastic, they will outlast most of their foam peers.
Pros
- Durable plastic build.
- Fillable handles for adjusting resistance levels.
- Even resistance throughout.
- Easy to use and manage.
Cons
- They don’t keep you afloat like foam dumbbells.
Trademark Innovations Triangular Aquatic Water Dumbells
(Best Variable Resistance)
These are cousins to the Trademark Innovations Circular dumbbells. If you desire to have different resistance patterns during your workouts in the water, then these babies have got you.
These dumbbells come in a triangular shape in 2 colors; blue and pink. The shape gives variable resistance to help work your upper body, lower back, and abs. Being made from EVA foam, they will provide you with great buoyancy and dry quickly in between usage.
Because of their material, the dumbbells are long-lasting and can hold up well if consistently used in chlorinated pools and the sun.
Pros
- Variable resistance.
- Quick-dry.
- Provide buoyancy.
- Low-water absorption.
Cons
- Not completely waterproof.
ZEYU SPORTS Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbbells
(Best Value for Money)
If you like to make each penny of yours count, then this is your ultimate pick. These dumbbells were created with great value in mind. At a reasonable price, they are packed with excellent features and capabilities.
They come in the classic dumbbells design in a whole bunch of 7 colors. You will easily fit in your local aquafit class with all those options. They are made with EVA foam, thus, highly buoyant and quick-dry. They can last you a whole day in the water without getting water-logged.
Another praiseworthy feature is their comfortable grip. The ZEYU dumbbells are designed with superior user comfort as a top priority. You can forget about blisters or loose grip during your workouts with these dumbbells.
PS: there is no difference in resistance based on color. The color options are just a matter of preference.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Color options.
- Quick-dry.
- Highly buoyant.
- Comfortable grip.
- Highly waterproof.
Cons
- No resistance level options.
Speedo Unisex Aqua Fitness Water Dumbbells
(Best Comfortable)
Speedo is a trusted name in pool gear. Coming from a trusted brand, this product already ticks the quality checkbox. If comfort comes first for you when buying swimming gear, then these are your go-to aqua dumbbells.
The Speedo dumbbells come in the dumbbells’ classic design in 2 colors; red and grey. They are made from EVA foam, which is incredibly lightweight and chlorine-resistant. The foam also makes them highly buoyant and quick-dry. Plus, they will hold up well when you use them regularly.
You can use these weights for longer exercise sessions thanks to the ultra-comfort they offer because of their soft padded grips.
The mid-range size will offer you enough resistance for an effective workout that will help build your upper body strength.
Pros
- Comfortable to use.
- Durable.
- Floatation support.
- Enough resistance for effective workouts.
- Chlorine-resistant.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- Handles fill up with water and may be difficult to drain.
Thera-Band Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells
(Best Hand Room)
If you have a slightly bigger hand and you are worried they would not fit the standard dumbbell’s handle, you should consider a pair of these water weights. They have been made much longer to have a 2-handed grip to comfortably accommodate any hand size.
The dumbbells are made with durable foam in 3 resistance levels denoted by 3 colors; red (light), green (medium), and blue (heavy).
They are a great tool for aquatic physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and pool fitness. They will help you increase motion in your lower and upper extremities, thus, increasing strength in your lower back, abs, and obliques.
You can choose from the resistance levels options offered for optimal satisfaction during your water fitness training and aerobic exercises. The dumbbells are great for all ages, so you can get your entire family a pair for their fitness exercises.
Pros
- Two-handed for more hand room.
- Durable foam.
- They can be used by all ages.
- Comfortable grip.
Cons
- Not quick-dry.
Power Systems Water Dumbbells – Pair
(Best Quality Build)
If you want dumbbells that you will use for eternity, this is your optimal choice. They are a serious contender when it comes to durability and functionality.
The Power Systems dumbbells are made with soft, durable, closed-cell, and non-abrasive EVA foam. Their handles are cushioned for maximum comfort, so you can use them for extended training sessions.
Their design and material make them the strongest dumbbells on this list with an impressive look and feel that will encourage you to work harder to achieve your fitness goals. You can also use them far from your home pool without worrying about wetting your car or travel bag, thanks to their quick-dry nature.
You have a choice when it comes to resistance levels. From the large, medium, and small sizes offered you can choose what best suits your workout needs. The size options make them versatile for various water exercises.
The dumbbells are remarkably lightweight outside water, thus highly portable.
Pros
- High-quality build.
- Cushioned and comfortable handle.
- Quick-dry.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Resistance level options.
Cons
- No color options.
Moving Free Water Fill Plastic Dumbbells
(Best Versatile)
Here’s a great option for you if you’d love something you can use both on land and in the water for your exercises.
The Moving Free dumbbells come in the traditional dumbbell shape in a blue color. They are made with plastic and can hold up well when used regularly in chlorinated pools.
They are highly versatile; you can fill them up with water to your desired weight up to about 3 pounds each for workouts on land. They are especially perfect for women, beginners, and old people who would love low-impact exercises on land.
For water exercises, you have to use the dumbbells when empty for greater resistance. So, if you want a higher resistance you fill them with air; if you want less resistance, you partially fill them with water. This right here is their beauty! You can actually vary resistance yourself which is a rare feature on many dumbbells.
The dumbbells are comfortable and have a nice feel; you can, therefore, use them for longer training sessions. They are also lightweight, thus easy to transport and ideal for travel.
Pros
- Can be used both on land and water.
- Comfortable and nice feel.
- Highly portable.
- Durable.
- You can vary the resistance.
Cons
- No color options.
How to Choose the Best Water Dumbbells?
Before buying a set of dumbbells, there are certain critical things you have to consider for a great buy. Depending on your training needs, dumbbells have to be on par with some standards for you to get the most out of them.
Here are things to consider before purchasing dumbbells;-
Resistance
You have to identify the type of exercises and results you are seeking to know the level of resistance you would need. Before buying dumbbells, you have to be sure of the resistance they offer for you to get your desired workout results.
If you are a beginner, you’ll need a set of dumbbells that are easy to move through the water, then as you advance and become fit, you can go for medium and heavy resistance.
Most dumbbells will have color codes for resistance level options offered or will be clearly indicated in pounds on the caps. The ones that are usually one-size-fits-all are medium resistance.
Materials
As much as other manufacturers offer other options, EVA foam is by far the best material for dumbbells. It is lightweight, buoyant, chlorine-resistant, durable, and has low absorption for water.
It is also quick-dry, so you can comfortably travel with your dumbbell or use them far from your home pool without worrying about wetting your bags or car.
Shape
Most water dumbbells are made with the traditional regular dumbbell design. Mostly with circular ends. However, some models come in varying shapes with triangular, hexagonal, and square ends.
These allow you easy storage because they won’t roll away. They will also help you to easily adjust your resistance by rolling your wrist.
Fins
For a balanced resistance when moving in any direction in the water, you might need dumbbells with fins. No matter how you are holding the dumbbells, they will always provide you with a balanced resistance.
Swim Bar
If you are a beginner learning how to swim and you need aquatic dumbbells that could help you, then a swim bar is what you need. The swim bar will allow you to hold it with two hands instead of having one in each hand.
You can then practice your swimming strokes and build your leg muscles with it.
Grip
Be sure to get dumbbells that have soft, comfortable grips that you can easily hold when wet. Comfort is also necessary for those long workout sessions.
Color
Get dumbbells in your favorite color so you can be encouraged to work out harder to achieve your fitness goals. A brighter color that I not the ordinary blue or white will also help you identify the dumbbells easily, especially if you work out in popular pools or attend an aqua class.
Some Popular Exercises With Water Dumbbells
You can use aquatic dumbbells for both compound and isolation exercises including;-
- Arm curls.
- Bicycle arms.
- Squats.
- Deadlifts.
- Hammer curls.
- Reverse flies.
- Seated calf raises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Swim Network Overview
Getting the right water exercises is key if you value fitness and bodybuilding. Water dumbbells are a great way of working your entire body effectively with low-impact. They are perfect for anyone who would love to work out without straining their joints or muscles or are nursing any injuries.
There is a whole bunch of dumbbell brands out there that picking one out of the lot is quite challenging. For you to get the best dumbbell that suits your needs, you have to establish your need for one then do a little research on the features to look out for. The Dumbbells share most features but have different capabilities.
For instance, you might be a beginner swimmer or new to water exercises, the Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Water Dumbbell Set would suit you best because of its features and price.
If you are a seasoned swimmer or an advanced water exercises or fitness enthusiast in need of water weights to increase your workout intensity, the Bintiva Aqua Water Dumbbell Set will meet your needs.
In case you want weights, you can use both on land and water and are ideal for traveling, then the Power Systems Water Dumbbells – Pair are your best bet.
The Trademark Innovations Aquatic Exercise Water Dumbells are the best dumbbells you can get in the market. The other dumbbells reviewed could not measure up to their first-rate features, usability, and affordability. They are too good for the price.
This guide has all the information you would need before purchasing an excellent set of dumbbells. All the products reviewed are among the best in the market, and the list is all-inclusive. There is something for everyone in it.
Jann Siders
I taught water aerobics (until Covid shut things down) to seniors for many years and have used several brands of dumbbells. Most of the older participants and others with shoulder/wrist injuries cannot handle the more resistant dumbbells like the Bintiva. Theraband buoys are not allowed at out fitness club as they have been found to degrade, fall apart and clog up pool equipment. I highly recommend theraquatics slim dumbbells for those who need a lighter resistance. They are light resistance, good grip, and last a long time (and we exercise hard on our dumbbells). Very few have popped the end piece (which is easily fixed).
William
Thank you very much for the information!