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Look good, feel good, lift good.
As an ISSA certified personal trainer (CPT) and self-certified #gymrat, I believe you set the tone for your workout well before you step up to a squat rack or load weight plates onto an Olympic barbell. While the “look good” part usually applies to your appearance, it can also apply to your home gym equipment. After all, if something looks sharp and feels comfortable, you’ll likely be inspired to get the most out of it.
Unfortunately, many of the best dumbbells don’t exactly stand out from the crowd from an aesthetic standpoint. However, with a familiar face expanding its footprint in the fitness space, you now have the opportunity to upgrade your home gym in a truly unique way.
In this Nike Grind Dumbbell review, I’ll break down all the elements of these eco-friendly dumbbells so you can determine if it’s time to make the company’s signature swoosh more than just a part of your wardrobe.
Dozens of Dumbbells, Countless Reps: Our Experts Just Get the Job Done
The Garage Gym Reviews team consists of CPTs, certified nutrition coaches, CrossFit enthusiasts, and an Olympian weightlifter. As fitness enthusiasts and expert reviewers, we conduct thorough research and test products ourselves in order to paint a complete picture for home gym owners.
With decades of combined experience training clients, conducting home workouts, and using many different commercial gyms, we’ve gotten our hands on some of the best (and worst) dumbbells. In fact, we’ve tested more than 50 models, including some excellent adjustable dumbbells. In order to evaluate this key piece of strength training equipment, we utilize our fitness testing methodology to assess key factors such as:
- Construction
- Ergonomics
- Knurling
- Optionality
- Value
For this Nike Grind Dumbbell review, we called upon GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele to put these premium-priced dumbbells through a series of strength training workouts. And you best believe she has more than enough reps under her proverbial belt to deliver a fair, accurate assessment.
Nike Grind Dumbbells
Nike Grind Dumbbells
Product Highlights
Made from at least 20% Nike Grind rubber by volume
Sold in pairs
Medium-knurl handle provides secure grip
Weight tolerance within +/- 3%
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unique, attractive aesthetic
- Hex design prevents rolling
- Knurled handle provides comfortable grip
- Resilient to drops
Cons
- On the pricier end for dumbbells
- Maximum weight of 50 lbs
- Only sold in pairs
- Expensive shipping costs
Bottom Line
Although we’d like to see heavier options, the Nike Grind Dumbbells look and perform like high-quality dumbbells that warrant a premium price tag. If you can stomach the shipping costs and weight restrictions, they can be a great aesthetic and functional upgrade for your home gym.
A Quick Look at the Nike Grind Dumbbells
Known for making kickass workout shoes, like the uber-popular Nike Metcon 9, the most recognizable athletic apparel brand in the world officially entered the fitness equipment market in October 2023, launching Nike Strength. This extension of the swoosh brand gives you a chance to add a Nike barbell, kettlebell, or flat bench (along with many other options) to your home gym—something that got us excited at GGR.
In fact, Lindsay and our founder, Coop Mitchell, teamed up with Senior Staff Writer Caine Wilkes to deliver a Nike Strength Equipment review not long after. Coop was highly impressed by the Nike Grind Bumper Plates, which have a unique exterior made from recycled material from the company’s shoe manufacturing process. Like their bumper plates, Nike’s Grind Dumbbells feature the same rubber finish that sets them apart aesthetically.
Before You Buy
- These dumbbells are made with Nike Grind Rubber, a byproduct of the company’s footwear manufacturing process.
- The medium-knurled handle definitely leans toward the passive side, which isn’t ideal if you prefer a more aggressive pattern.
- According to the Nike Strength website, you have to purchase at least 200 pounds worth of dumbbells to start saving on shipping costs. Expect to add quite a bit to the final total at checkout.
- While Lindsay loves the look and design of the Nike Grind Dumbbells, she was a bit disappointed that they top out at 50 pounds. That’s suitable for beginners, but not sufficient for experienced lifters. If you want heavier hex rubber dumbbells, take a look at Rogue, REP Fitness, or Giant Lifting.
RELATED: Rogue Dumbbells vs REP Dumbbells
Nike Grind Dumbbell Video Review
Are the Nike Grind Dumbbells Worth It?
From a look and feel standpoint, it’s hard to find much wrong with the Nike Grind Dumbbells. The proprietary recycled rubber finish gives them a unique aesthetic that can add character and visual appeal to your home gym. Plus, they’re well-built and well-suited for all types of training due to their hexagonal head design.
However, there are a few drawbacks that may make them less appealing for some users. First, they’re expensive. Paying $30 for a pair of 2.5-pound dumbbells is already asking a lot, and you’ll have to add even more to your total once you factor in shipping costs. Also, the Grind series tops out at 50 pounds, which limits your ability to follow progressive overload protocols1 to build strength and mass.
So, if you don’t have a tight budget and aren’t concerned about the weight restrictions, these dumbbells are worth adding to your arsenal. Otherwise, you may want to look at a more cost-effective option like the Iron Bull Hex Rubber Dumbbells.
Great for:
- Strength training enthusiasts who want to add a unique aesthetic to their home gym
- Lifters who value eco-friendly equipment
- People who want to avoid issues with rolling or damaging their floor
- Folks with limited space, as the hex design is ideal for stacking and storing
Not recommended for:
- Those who like to lift heavy, as these dumbbells only go up to 50 pounds
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Anyone looking to purchase a complete dumbbell set
- Lifters who prefer an aggressive knurl pattern
Nike Grind Dumbbell Specs
| Weight Range | 2.5 to 50 lbs |
| Weight Tolerance | +/- 3% |
| Handle Diameter | 28mm to 37mm, depending on the size |
| Handle Width | 128mm |
| Handle Type | Ergonomic |
| Handle Material | Chrome-plated steel |
| Knurling | Medium |
Using the Nike Grind Dumbbells
GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele and I share the same sentiment that if you like how your home gym looks, you’ll be more motivated to use it. But just because equipment captures your eye doesn’t mean it’ll capture your heart for good. Luckily, Lindsay loved using the Nike Grind Dumbbells during testing, noting that the medium-knurl handle feels great for dynamic movements and overhead work.
Let’s dive in for more details on the different elements that affect their look, feel, and performance.
Construction and Durability
Nike knocked it out of the park with the design of the Grind series dumbbells, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for construction.
“They’re beautiful and well-constructed,” Lindsay highlighted in her video review.
Made from at least 20% Nike Grind rubber by volume, this unique finish enhances the aesthetic appeal and durability. Combined with a hexagonal head design that prevents rolling, you shouldn’t have to worry about damaging your floors if you drop these rubber-coated dumbbells.
“We dropped these so many times from overhead just to see what it would do, and it didn’t do anything. Our floor was completely fine, as well as these dumbbells,” Lindsay notes.
You’ll also see the familiar swoosh branding on the head, along with bold numbering that allows you to easily identify the weight. Another neat design feature to note is the sculpted, contoured edges that provide added comfort when lifting. This small detail can make a big difference, especially if you like to rest the dumbbells on your legs between sets.
Finally, you can trust that the actual weight will be within 3% of the listed weight. Lindsay tested just how precise Nike’s manufacturing process is by weighing a pair of 40-pound dumbbells. One measured 39.75 pounds and the other was right on the dot at 40 pounds.
Ergonomics
While some dumbbells have straight handles that feel similar to a barbell, Nike designed the Grind Dumbbells with an ergonomic handle that measures 128mm wide. Earning 4.5 out of 5 stars for ergonomics, Lindsay describes the dumbbells as “well-balanced and comfortable,” noting that she had no trouble using them for various exercises, including overhead lifts.
While the handle width is standard for the entire range, the handle diameter ranges from 28mm to 37mm, depending on the weight. For context, a standard Olympic barbell has a diameter of 28mm. For a more apples-to-apples comparison, Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells also feature an ergonomic handle that measures 28mm in diameter for their 5- and 10-lb models. However, the rest of the range (15-100 lbs) have a 34mm handle diameter.
Knurling
If you’re a fan of aggressive knurling, you’ll be disappointed by the Nike Grind Dumbbells. The chrome-plated steel handle has medium knurling that earned 3.5 out of 5 stars from our team.
Although it leans more toward the passive side, you should still feel confident about maintaining a firm grip during your workouts.
“It makes doing any sort of dynamic movement actually feel really nice,” Lindsay explains. “Any sort of overhead work always makes me nervous if the knurling is too light, and these actually feel really nice, really comfortable, and really well-balanced in my hand.”
Nike Grind Dumbbells vs Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Product Highlights
- Made with low-odor rubber
- Six-sided head prevents weights from rolling on the floor
- Sold in pairs
- Knurled handle
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sold in pairs
- Rubber-coated heads to protect weights and floors
- Knurled handles
- Free shipping
- Six-sided head prevents weights from rolling
Cons
- Expensive to build an entire set
Bottom Line
If you’re in the market for hex rubber dumbbells, you have several high-quality options. On one hand, Nike’s unique manufacturing process makes the Grind Dumbbells stand out from the pack visually. On the other hand, while Giant Lifting doesn’t boast the same aesthetic appeal, it offers a much broader range of weight options, topping out at 100 pounds.
What really separates these two contenders is how much bang for your buck you get. As expected, the swoosh branding comes with a much higher price tag. Plus, you’ll have to pay expensive shipping costs.
Meanwhile, Giant offers free shipping (a major plus) and a lower price-per-pound. So, if you’re trying to stick to a budget, this will be a better option.
| Nike Grind Dumbbells | Giant Lifting Rubber Hex Dumbbells | |
| Weight Range | 2.5 to 50 lbs | 2.5 to 100 lbs |
| Weight Tolerance | +/- 3% | Not listed |
| Handle Diameter | 28mm to 37mm, depending on the size | 28mm (5lb/10lb); 34mm (15lb-100lb) |
| Handle Width | 128mm | Not listed |
| Handle Type | Ergonomic | Ergonomic |
| Handle Material | Chrome-plated steel | Chrome-plated steel |
| Knurling | Medium | Medium/Moderate |
Customer Experience
According to the Nike Strength website, returns must be requested within 30 days and all products must be returned in new and unused condition. Most cases take five to seven business days to process.
Luckily, Nike Grind Dumbbells are protected by a limited lifetime warranty for welds. However, the warranty will void if the dumbbells are dropped from over 24 inches.
We appreciate that Nike offers discounts for current and former U.S. military members and first responders. This program allows eligible customers to save up to 10% on their order—a nice perk that can help you keep more money in your pocket.
RELATED: Nike Military Discount
Ordering the Nike Grind Dumbbells
You can order the Nike Grind Dumbbells directly from the Nike Strength website. Unfortunately, they only come in pairs, which isn’t ideal if you want to purchase a complete set. If you plan on buying multiple sizes, you can also snag a storage rack for $250 or a dumbbell tree for about half the cost ($120).
One of the biggest drawbacks about the purchasing process is how much you’ll have to pay for shipping. While Nike offers discounts based on how “heavy” your cart is, you have to purchase at least 200 pounds worth of dumbbells to save on shipping.
Already expensive compared to other similar dumbbells, the added shipping fees can make this quite a sizable investment.
Customer Reviews
The Grind Dumbbells have earned an average rating of 4.9 stars based on 73 reviews on the Nike Strength website. Despite being pricey, they earn widespread praise for their solid construction and attractive design. However, some customers wish there were heavier options.
Final Verdict of Our Nike Grind Dumbbell Review
Branching out into the strength training equipment space was a bold move by Nike. We respect the brand for bringing something unique to the table with the Grind series gear, which supports sustainability and minimizes waste.
Are these dumbbells the best option on the market? That’s debatable.
What’s not debatable, however, is that adding a few pairs to your home gym will immediately make your space more visually appealing. And if that encourages you to crank up your workout routine, we’re all for it.
Full Rating
Nike Grind Dumbbell
Although we’d like to see heavier options, the Nike Grind Dumbbells look and perform like high-quality dumbbells that warrant a premium price tag. If you can stomach the shipping costs and weight restrictions, they can be a great aesthetic and functional upgrade for your home gym.
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 30
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.93
Nike Grind Dumbbell: FAQs
What is Nike Grind used for?
Part of the company’s global sustainability program, Nike Grind is used in a multitude of ways, including football fields, furniture, playgrounds, tracks, walkways, and fitness gear.
Is Nike Strength equipment worth it?
Based on our testing experience, the GGR team believes Nike Strength equipment is a worthwhile addition to your home gym. The build quality is excellent, and the Grind series gear gives you the ability to add a unique aesthetic to your space. However, it’s not the best option if you’re trying to keep costs down.
How do Nike Grind dumbbells compare to other brands?
Nike Grind dumbbells are built similarly to rubber hex dumbbells by Giant Lifting and REP Fitness. However, they’re more expensive and come in a more limited weight range.
References
- Chaves TS, Scarpelli MC, Bergamasco JGA, Silva DGD, Medalha Junior RA, Dias NF, Bittencourt D, Carello Filho PC, Angleri V, Nóbrega SR, Roberts MD, Ugrinowitsch C, Libardi CA. Effects of Resistance Training Overload Progression Protocols on Strength and Muscle Mass. Int J Sports Med. 2024 Jun;45(7):504-510. doi: 10.1055/a-2256-5857. Epub 2024 Jan 29. PMID: 38286426.
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