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One popular company that hasn’t cracked our list of the best adjustable dumbbells is REP Fitness. Why? Because up until recently, their only set of adjustable dumbbells were simple loadable dumbbells with standard weight plates and spin locks. While well made, these simple dumbbells just don’t compare with many of the latest adjustable dumbbells made for your home gym.
Now, however, things may change. REP is coming out with the new QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells. These dumbbells claim to be the fastest changing, highest value, and most durable adjustable dumbbells on the market, backed by a wildly strong warranty.
Do these claims hold up, though? We were able to test out this new piece of gym equipment before it’s officially released, and we’ll give you our verdict in our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells review.
Quick on the Draw with Expert Testing
Our team of testers consists of certified personal trainers, lifting coaches, and competitive athletes who are always on the hunt for new items to test out and give our expert opinion on. We do this not just because it’s our job, but because we’re passionate about fitness and helping people make informed decisions.
We were sent a beta version of the QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells to test out before the product launches on October 25. Garage Gym Reviews founder Coop Mitchell and GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele both tested out the pair of dumbbells through various workouts and exercises, like bench, goblet squats, deadlifts, French press, and rows.
Our team was told that the beta dumbbells had a bit more “slop” than what the official release will be (you can see the dumbbells flex and bow in our video review a bit more than usual), but otherwise these dumbbells are what you’ll get on the official launch. We tested its durability in our own drop tests, and also looked at factors like the construction, performance, and the handle to give our final verdict of the dumbbell.
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell
Product Highlights
- Adjustable dumbbells ranging from 5 to 60 lbs
- Patented Lock-N-Load steel switches for quick weight changes
- Can be bought as 30-lb, 40-lb, 50-lb, or 60-lb pairs
- Fully knurled handle
- Durability tested for drops
- Lifetime warranty
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very durable and tested for drops
- Lifetime warranty
- Can be expanded from 30 lbs up to 60 lbs
- Quick weight changes
Cons
- Adder weights can be a bit slower to add or remove
- Longer dumbbell at max weight
- Max weight is only 60 lbs
Bottom Line
The REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell is the latest piece of innovative equipment for the company, with patented Lock-N-Load switches for quick weight changes. The dumbbells can go up to a maximum weight of 60 pounds, although they can be purchased at lighter weights and expanded from there. These dumbbells are extremely durable as well, tested for drops at various heights and angles; plus, they’re backed by a lifetime warranty.
A Quick Look at the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
REP Fitness marketed the heck out of these dumbbells in anticipation of their release. The USA company’s first real entry into adjustable dumbbells was backed by videos and posts of their drop tests, and compared to the competition in quick weight changes. While the competition was never named, anyone who has done a bit of research could probably tell which dumbbells the QuickDraw was compared to.
The QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells are scheduled to launch a presale on October 25. The max weight for the dumbbells is 60 pounds, although the set can be bought at a 30-pound maximum weight, with the option to expand with add-on weight plates up to 60 pounds.
The QuickDraw dumbbells are touted as the most durable dumbbells on the market with the fastest weight changes. The dumbbells are built with a traditional look and feel, with two steel support rods on one side of the handle, giving it a look like the Pepin FAST Series Adjustable Dumbbells.
Each weight plate has REP’s patented Lock-N-Load steel switches, which can click locked or unlocked to attach to the knurled dumbbell handle. The system has far fewer mechanisms than most adjustable dumbbells and has been cycle-tested more than 100,000 times, helping add to its durability. The dumbbell has 2.5-pound add-on plates that will lock on the side of the handle for smaller 2.5- or 5-pound weight changes.
Before You Buy
- If you’re a fan of REP Fitness products, but the 60-pound limit of these dumbbells is just too light for your strength training, then I have some good news for you. Although the design will be different, REP will be coming out with a set of 120-pound adjustable dumbbells, so stay tuned.
- One nice feature of the QuickDraw dumbbells is that they don’t require the weight cradles for weight changes. If you want to do quick drop sets, you don’t have to walk over to your cradles, just do it seated in between bench press sets.
- To improve durability, the dumbbells have steel support rods. While we didn’t feel like these got in the way of exercises, if you prefer the look and feel of traditional hex dumbbells, these rods may bother you. They won’t feel cagey like Powerblocks, though.
- These things are durable. REP Fitness did drop tests from all sorts of different heights, ranging from a few inches to 4 feet and higher. They dropped them at different angles, and the dumbbells even withstood a drop from the roof of a building…but don’t drop sets of dumbbells off your roof, please.
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells Video Review
Are the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It?
When REP first teased the QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells on social media, the price was $430 for the 60-pound set. However, the price has been increased as the launch nears, to $499. Coop remarks, “Obviously, $430 would be better value, but the $499 price is still great value for these dumbbells, especially with how durable these things are.”
With a max weight of 60 pounds, the QuickDraw dumbbells put themselves in comparison with dumbbells with similar maximum weights. Although they are at the high end of price ranges at those weights, the QuickDraw dumbbells are so durable that Coop thinks the value is still there, especially when it’s backed by a lifetime warranty.
The NordicTrack dumbbells are most similar in feel and weight range, and are priced pretty low at $350 on Amazon. However, the weight range starts a bit lower and ends a bit higher on the QuickDraw, 5 to 60 pounds compared to 10 to 55 pounds on the NordicTrack dumbbells. That along with the extreme durability make the REP dumbbells have a bit more value, even at a higher price point.
Another budget-priced pair of adjustable dumbbells are the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells, priced under $400 dollars and with a max weight of 50 pounds. Although the Core Home Fitness dumbbells have a quick-change handle, the extra money for the QuickDraw dumbbells may be worth it simply for the longevity of the dumbbells, plus the Lock-N-Load switches are just as fast.
With the max weight of 60 pounds, you may be looking for something that can go heavier. Until REP releases their 120-pound set of dumbbells, you’ll have to look elsewhere for heavier weights, such as the NÜOBELL adjustable dumbbells or the Snode adjustable dumbbells, both able to reach 80 pounds and costing around $800. Heavier than that are the PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP Dumbbells, which go to 100 pounds, but will cost just over $1,000, too.
Great for:
- Home gym users wanting a set of durable adjustable dumbbells
- Beginners wanting dumbbells that can grow with their strength
- People wanting quick-changing adjustable dumbbells
Not recommended for:
- Lifters looking for heavier dumbbells than 60 pounds
- Those who prefer a shorter length on their heavy dumbbells
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells Specs
| Price | $499 |
| Dumbbell length | 18.5” |
| Cradle dimensions | 20.6” L x 8.45” W |
| Weight range | 5-60 lbs |
| Weight increments | 5 lbs |
| Change mechanism | Lock-N-Load steel switches |
| Handle diameter | 32 mm |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Using the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
We took the QuickDraw dumbbells through multiple workouts and exercises, including bench press, curls, squats, snatches, and deadlifts. Along with this, we did our own little test of the dumbbells, with drop tests for different angles and heights.
Lindsay rates the dumbbells in use a 4 out of 5, noting, “For the price point, I think they’re fantastic. Plus, I like the locking method and the click you hear when adjusting weights.” Let’s look into how the dumbbell fared from our workouts and testing.
Weight Adjustments
These dumbbells claim to be the fastest changes on the market with their Lock-N-Load switches. These steel switches are on each plate and switch up or down to lock the next weight plate into the dumbbell. With this mechanism, you can go from 5 pounds to 60 pounds with just one satisfying click on each side.
The switches have been cycle-tested for over 100,000 uses. It’s a clean, quick adjustment. Coop adds, “It’s so satisfying to hear that click, plus it lets you know the weights are in place.”
Footprint and Dumbbell Length
Adjustable dumbbells will always have a small footprint compared to fixed dumbbells, as they can replace multiple sets of dumbbells with just one pair. The REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells are no different, although they’re fairly long dumbbells for 60-pound dumbbells at 18.5 inches.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Similarly weighted dumbbells are shorter, with the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells topping out at about 17 inches and NordicTrack dumbbells even shorter. This isn’t a dealbreaker by any means, but if you don’t like longer dumbbells, this might be enough to deter you. Coop adds, “At its current weight and length, I think it’s fine. I couldn’t imagine any more weight on this design, though, as it’d start to look like a Croc dumbbell. It’d just be too long.”
Durability and Construction
The REP QuickDraws are mostly metal construction, aside from some plastic pieces to protect metal-on-metal wear. With the unique Lock-N-Load switches and metal construction, there aren’t any seriously fragile mechanisms within the dumbbell, which makes these far more durable than most adjustable dumbbells we’ve tested.
The steel support rods are a good addition to further solidify the durability of these dumbbells, without taking up too much space or making a cagey-feeling dumbbell like PowerBlocks. Coop even liked grabbing those support rods for one-dumbbell exercises like French press or goblet squats.
REP Fitness did some drop tests, and at GGR we had to do our own. Lindsay rated the durability of the dumbbells a strong 4.5 out of 5, saying “These things are tanks. We tested dropping them from every angle imaginable and from heights ranging from 18 inches to over 4 feet. These dumbbells are relentless. Even with our beta set, which has a little more play and whip when fully loaded, it can withstand being thrown around in your home gym with no problem.”
We even shoved it off a table with the plastic cradle. Coop says, “I don’t think REP tested the dropping capability of the cradle, but at GGR we do extra stuff, and the cradle’s fine, too.”
While we never recommend dropping adjustable dumbbells, and especially not plastic cradles, these dumbbells will withstand most normal drops with dumbbells from hip height. “That durability for the price point, with a lifetime warranty, too…that is sick.” Coop means the good sick, just FYI.
Handle
At 32 millimeters in diameter, the handle is a bit thicker than the best Olympic barbells, but it’s a pretty normal diameter for dumbbells. The handle is nickel-plated steel, and has a medium volcano knurling, which Coop loves.
Lindsay notes, however, that “We compared this to the volcano knurling on the Rogue Echo Bar and this is by far more passive.” She adds that the more passive feel is nice for dynamic movements like dumbbell snatches, giving the handle a 4 out of 5.
REP QuickDraw vs NordicTrack Select-A-Weight
NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
NordicTrack 55-Pound Select-A-Weight Dumbbell Set
Product Highlights
- 15 weight options in 2.5-lb or 5-lb increments
- 10-pound knurled handlebar
- Included storage tray
- Includes a 30-day trial to iFIT
- Compact piece of equipment with a smooth weight selection design
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Space-saving
- 15 weights in one piece of equipment
- Includes storage tray
- Moderate knurling
Cons
- Great value, but an investment
- May feel awkward when fully loaded
Bottom Line
NordicTrack’s 55-pound Select-a-Weight adjustable dumbbells are versatile and space-saving, offering users 15 different weight options in one.
As far as weight ranges and overall feel of dumbbells go, the closest match to the QuickDraw dumbbells are the Select-A-Weight dumbbells by NordicTrack. The change mechanisms are different, with the weight pin selectors sliding across the weights, unlike the individual steel switches on each plate of the QuickDraw, but both are fast.
The weights are similar but REP has a slightly broader range, with a 5-pound starting weight and a max weight of 60 pounds, compared to NordicTrack’s range of 10 to 55 pounds. The NordicTrack dumbbells are a little shorter at the top weight, which may cater to some users better.
The main things to really look at to decide which pair of dumbbells suits you best are the price and the durability of the dumbbells. The NordicTrack dumbbells are the better budget price at $349 compared to the $499 of the QuickDraw. However, the lifetime warranty of the REP Fitness dumbbells might be worth the extra money, as they are durable enough for drops from any angle. NordicTrack only provides a 90-day warranty, and isn’t as durable.
For more information on NordicTrack’s budget-friendly dumbbells, check out our NordicTrack dumbbell review.
| REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells | NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Adjustable Dumbbells | |
| Price | $499 | $349 |
| Dumbbell length | 18.5” | 16.5” |
| Cradle dimensions | 20.6” L x 8.45” W | 19.4” L x 11.4” W |
| Weight range | 5-60 lbs | 10-55 lbs |
| Weight increments | 2.5 or 5 lbs | 2.5 or 5 lbs |
| Change mechanism | Lock-N-Load steel switches | Weight pin selectors |
| Handle diameter | 32 mm | Not disclosed |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 90 days |
Customer Experience
REP Fitness always has great customer service in our experience, as GGR lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele notes in her 5 out of 5 customer service rating. When she reached out to them, REP responded within 24 hours. Additionally, there are multiple ways to contact the company listed on the website—phone, email, and a contact form, as well as a general FAQ section.
If you’re not satisfied with your product, REP will allow for returns within 30 days of receipt. Make sure your item is in the original packaging and complete (meaning no missing hardware), or else REP will deduct a 15% restocking fee from your refund. They also may deny a refund for used or damaged items.
The biggest thing about REP’s policies on the QuickDraw is the lifetime warranty. I can’t—and neither could Lindsay or Coop—think of another set of adjustable dumbbells that offers a lifetime warranty for home gym use. The warranty is pretty solid as well, as it covers defects in material, functionality, and workmanship. Keep in mind that the warranty is non-transferrable, though. This strong warranty for a droppable adjustable dumbbell led Lindsay to rate the policies for the QuickDraw a 5 out of 5.
Ordering and Assembling the REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
For now, the QuickDraws are available for presale starting on October 25th. REP also offers financing options through Affirm for all items sitewide. However, your order has to be over $650, so you might have to purchase these adjustable dumbbells with one of the best weight benches, or perhaps a budget power rack.
RELATED: REP PR-1100 Review
The QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells were delivered well, according to Lindsay. “These dumbbells were packaged and shipped excellently,” she says, giving the delivery and setup a 4.5 out of 5. She adds, “They sent the 30-pound set dumbbells together in the weight cradles, and had added weight plates that were boxed and wrapped individually.”
Customer Reviews
As of this writing, there are no customer reviews on the REP Fitness QuickDraw dumbbells. Why? Because they’re not quite released yet—only on presale. As people get their dumbbells in, the reviews will roll in, so be on the lookout for an update here.
Final Verdict of Our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells Review
These are extremely durable dumbbells, so Coop recommends them so long as 60 pounds is the heaviest dumbbell you’re looking for. “If you know 60 pounds is the most you’re looking for, for the price, these are the best dumbbells on the market. There are better adjustable dumbbells that go heavier, though.”
Lindsay agrees, saying, “Are these my favorite? Not really, but for the price point, they’re great. Compared to similar prices and weighted dumbbells, this has the most value for its durability.”
So for the value, durability, and warranty, these are a great option. If you’re looking for something heavier, however, you may need to look elsewhere from REP Fitness for now—until they release their 120-pound adjustable dumbbells. Keep in mind that those dumbbells will be a completely different design. After the QuickDraws, though, we’re excited to see what REP comes up with next.
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells Rating
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells
After being heavily anticipated, find out how REP’s entry into adjustable dumbbells fares in our REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells review.
Product Brand: REP Fitness
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 499.99
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.3
REP QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbells: FAQs
Are adjustable dumbbells reliable?
Adjustable dumbbells are generally reliable so long as they are treated with care. Many adjustable dumbbells have inner mechanisms that aid in weight changes, but dropping the weights can jar the mechanisms and make switching weights difficult—or in some cases, impossible.
Aside from a couple of dumbbells that are warrantied for drops, like the REP QuickDraw and the Snode adjustable dumbbells, most adjustable dumbbells shouldn’t be dropped. If you’re avoiding drops and taking care of your weights, your dumbbells should have decent longevity.
What adjustable dumbbells should I buy?
The best adjustable dumbbells to purchase for your garage gym will depend on your fitness goals, including the weight range best for you and the amount of durability you want from your dumbbells. Here are our picks for the best adjustable dumbbells:
Best Adjustable Dumbbells Overall: Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells
Best User-Friendly Adjustable Dumbbells: NUOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Best Heavy Weight Adjustable Dumbbells: Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System
Best Loadable Dumbbell: Titan Fitness Loadable Dumbbell Handles
Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells
Best Adjustable Dumbbell Set: PowerBlock Pro Dumbbells
Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Beginners: FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbells
Best Ultra-Budget Adjustable Dumbbell: Kensui AdjustaBELL
Are adjustable dumbbells better than normal dumbbells?
Adjustable dumbbells are a great alternative to normal, fixed dumbbells because of the space they can save, as well as the money you can possibly save. Many adjustable dumbbells cover a wide range of weights, replacing several sets of dumbbells, while only taking up the space of one pair of dumbbells. Generally, these adjustable dumbbells are also less expensive than purchasing each set of fixed dumbbells individually.
How does an adjustable dumbbell work?
There are many different ways that adjustable dumbbells can work. The simplest kind of adjustable dumbbells are loadable dumbbells, with weight plates and spin locks to keep the weights in place.
Other adjustable dumbbells will use inner mechanisms that will slide out to the number of plates needed for a certain weight. REP Fitness uses a Lock-N-Load switch system, which allows for fast changes in a matter of seconds.
Further reading
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