How Much Should I Pay For Dumbbells? (& Why Are They So Expensive?)
Dumbbells are versatile pieces of equipment, used for resistance training, strength building, and general fitness purposes. Research has even found exercising with dumbbells, e.g., during bench press, elicits greater recruitment of muscle compared to barbell lifting (Source). This may contribute to even greater muscular adaptations. But the question many people seem to ask is ‘Why do dumbbells cost so much’? In this blog, we’re sharing what you need to know about the cost and why they can be so expensive.
How Much Do Dumbbells Cost?
The exact cost will depend on several factors, such as the weight, brand, and material they are made from. Here at Exersci, the cost of a pair of dumbbells starts at £9.99 for black neoprene dumbbells weighing 0.5kg each. This cost ranges up to £239.99 for a pair of Hex dumbbells weighing 50kg each, and there are several options in between this range.
Bundles start at £129.99 for a set weighing 1- 5kg and range up to £1,299.99 for a 5 - 30kg rubber dumbbell bundle with 3-tier rack.
Why Are Dumbbells So Expensive?
When people begin buying dumbbells for their home gyms, one of the first realisations is that they can be expensive. Below we are sharing some reasons why they cost so much.
Higher Delivery Costs
Due to their heavy weight, the delivery costs will be higher than your average parcel. Generally, the heavier the dumbbells are, the more the shipping will cost. This is one of the main reasons why the pieces of equipment cost so much, yet it is often disregarded by customers.
Most People Buy A Pair
When buying dumbbells, most people don’t just buy 1, they will buy 2. Therefore, the price reflects in buying both items. This also means the weight is heavier, leading to higher delivery costs.
Brand Name
Just like any other product, dumbbells from a well-known brand cost more than those from a lesser known brand. This is because people trust the brand and know that they can expect good quality from its products, however, if they were to choose a lesser known brand, they may not be sure what to expect. Therefore, they may not be willing to spend much on the product.
Low Supply
When fewer dumbbells are produced, production costs are higher per unit than when more are produced. If supply is low and there is a great demand for dumbbells, retailers are unable to keep up with demand, and therefore must sell them at a higher price to make a profit.
Material Type
Dumbbells made of certain materials are more expensive than those made from different materials. If it is made from high quality materials, it will stand the test of time, reacting better to general wear and tear, therefore will cost more. Good quality materials cost manufacturers more than poor quality materials, therefore retailers will have to charge higher prices to make a profit.
Types Of Dumbbells
Some types tend to be more expensive than others. For instance, adjustable dumbbells are usually more costly than fixed dumbbells thanks to their versatility. When you buy adjustable sets, you gain access to a range of weight options. They take up minimal space and are ideal for people with limited room.
So, How Much Should I Pay For Dumbbells?
The amount you should pay depends on several factors, including your individual budget, the weight range you require, brand name, and type. Generally, you can expect to pay anything upwards of £9.99, ranging up to £250. If you require a set, you can pay anything from £100 to £1,000+. You should shop around to find a suitable pair of dumbbells that matches your requirements.
If you are a casual lifter, you may want to opt for one of the lower price ends to get the most out of your budget. These will most often be lighter weights and often made out of cheaper material. On the other hand, if you are a heavy lifter or have other people who will be using your equipment you may want to opt for more sturdy materials, for example, the Exersci steel dumbells or the hex dumbells. These will offer a more durable piece of equipment in case of them being dropped.
Summary
Above we have discussed factors that affect the cost of dumbbells and we have also answered the question ‘Why are dumbbells so expensive?’. To recap, the cost will depend on factors such as
- Material
- Type
- Weight
- Brand
Complete Your Home Gym, Today
If you require dumbbells for your home gym, you can browse our entire range of dumbbells here. At Exersci, we sell high-quality dumbbells manufactured with longevity in mind. All customers can relax with complete peace of mind as we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if there are any issues with your dumbbells. Alternatively, if you would like more information about our dumbbells or require tailored equipment to suit your home gym, get in touch to speak to a member of our expert team today.