The Universal brand from Nautilus Inc has established a name for itself with their small army of versatile and affordable home gym solutions. One such product is the Universal Power Pak 445, an adjustable dumbbell set that offers the ideal combination of performance and space-saving utility in one.

It features 9 weight settings that range from 4 to 45 pounds, and can be quickly adjusted in small increments to suit beginners and experienced body builders alike. Also, this single pair of weights can replace up to 18 individual dumbbells, so you won’t clutter up your workout space.

But that’s not all, because this model includes a stand with dedicated cradles that hold the weights at an ideal height for easy access.

Key Features of the Universal Power Pak 445

Here we have included some key features of this Universal Power Pak 445 dumbbell. If you are going to buy it, just check these features. Of course check these features before purchase it.

Space-Saving Ingenuity

The Power Pak 445 works as an all-in-one unit, which means you don’t need to have a full rack of 18 different dumbbells or piles of separate plates to accommodate all your workout needs. It will not just help you save on floor space but on budget too, since a pair of Power Paks cost about half as much as 9 sets of dumbbells.

This is owed to its variable weight capacity that will let you choose from as a low as 4 pounds up to a maximum of 45 pounds. And with small increments of 5 pounds only, you can steer clear of unwanted muscle strain caused by stacking weights too rapidly.

Dial-a-Weight System

These adjustable dumbbells uses a dial adjustment system similar to the BowFlex SelectTechs that will let you increase or decrease the weight by simply dialing in your desired setting. With a turn of the dial, you can make the jump from 4 to 45 pounds or anywhere in between, so you won’t have to constantly lodge and dislodge plates whenever you switch workouts.

This is made possible with the help of the cradle, which releases the selected weights onto the dumbbell and holds unused plates for later use.

Over 30 Possible Workouts

To help you achieve a complete body workout, the folks behind Universal included a comprehensive workout guide which lists over 30 workouts (with variations) that you can do with these dumbbells.

This includes wide squats and calf raises to tighten your legs; wide rows and dead lifts to target your back; presses and flies to sculpt your chest; hammer curls to beef up your arms, and abdominal crunches for dashboard abs.

Plus, with its ability to switch through the different weight settings very quickly, the Universal Power Pak 445 is the perfect pair for fast-paced routines such as CrossFit, P90X, high-speed intervals, and the likes.

High Quality at Low Cost

While the Power Pak 445 is affordable, it doesn’t automatically mean that it’s the cheapest. The handlebars are made with solid steel and wrapped in thermoplastic rubber to ensure a comfortable and slip-free grip.

Unlike the bare metal plates of conventional dumbbells, the weights are wrapped in thick foam to avoid scratching your floor in case of accidental drops. The folks behind Universal were also kind enough to include the dedicated stand for free, so you won’t have to worry about straining your back whenever you reach for the dumbbells.

Additional Information

The Universal Power Pak 445 Adjustable Dumbbells measures 14 by 8.5 by 7 inches (L x W x H) and weighs 45 pounds each. It is covered by the manufacturer’s 1-year limited warranty on all components including the plates, handlebars, and stand.

Whether it’s from Cap Barbell, Champion, Troy, or the latest special by Target or Walmart, hex dumbbells have a unanimous form and have been an economical solution for home gyms and fitness centers everywhere.

They are basically the standard fixed-weight dumbbells that offer a nice solid weight and serve their intended purpose. While there isn’t anything fancy about them, they do have some unique benefits and comes available in various weight settings, shapes, coats, and grip types.

Key Features of Hex Dumbbells

Check Hex Dumbbells special features that you may love. We’ve tried to included these features for you. So you can make your decision final that, you can buy it for you or not.

Shape Advantage

Hex dumbbells share the same basic shape as the pro-style or round dumbbells, but its end caps have 6 flat sides that form a hexagon. The advantage of these fixed weights is that they won’t roll away when you set them down. In case your workout surface is not 100% level, a round dumbbell will roll off, which is not only an inconvenience, but can also be a hazard.

Also, while pro dumbbells start at a weight of 5 pounds, hex dumbbells have a minimum weight of just 1 pound, so they offer more workout variety for lighter routines. Plus, if you don’t have a dumbbell rack, you may simply stack the flat-sided weights in a corner to save precious floor space.

Handle & Grip Variety

Naturally, the overall design of the dumbbell grip can affect the quality of your workout. For this reason, hex dumbbell handles are made available in varying shapes, sizes, and coats. Some of them have a uniform grip (consistent thickness from end to end), while others come with ergonomic curves (slightly thicker in the center than the ends).

There are also those that feature textured grips to prevent the weights from slipping off those sweaty paws. Chromed solid steel handles are another option, as they provide corrosion-resistance and improve the dumbbell’s overall quality.

Coating Selection

Hex dumbbells tend to cause more floor damage than round weights because of their flat sides and pointy edges. This is where the various coatings come in handy. The cheapest and most common among these is enamel coating, which shields bare cast iron from rust and gives it a glossy finish.

Then there’s the flexible and waterproof rubber, that helps protect your floors if dropped and your hands during use. However, rubber-coated dumbbells are more expensive and sell for about one-and-a-half or two times more than the non-coated varieties.

Durability and Cost-Efficiency

In their unprotected form, a full set (1 to 100 pounds) from this variety can cost thousands of dollars less than chrome weight plates, making it the ideal choice for health buffs on a budget. Compared to adjustable weights, cast-iron hex dumbbells have no moving parts that can break or get lost. They can also last a lifetime with the right care and maintenance.

Although there’s the cheaper concrete, it simply cannot stand as much stress as solid iron and chrome, therefore it’s vulnerable to chipping and breakage on impact. And when they break, you’ll have to throw the entire dumbbell – and your money – right out the door.

Last Thoughts on the Hex Dumbbells

Hex dumbbells are available in singles, pairs, and in a full set with dedicated rack. As a friendly word of advice: while you may buy cheap dumbbells from no-name brands and discount stores, purchasing quality fitness equipment manufactured by today’s top fitness manufacturers will help you reach your fitness goals safely and more efficiently.

First released in 2013, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells is the all-encompassing dumbbell solution for fitness buffs who want to save space, time, and budget. It features an easy-turn dial that allows quick weight adjustments on-the-fly, from 5 pounds all the way to 52.5 pounds.

Because of this, they’re versatile enough to match iron-pumping exercises and speed-circuit training without getting a whole rack of dumbbells or multiple weight plates separately. Now you can push yourself to the next level and get gym-quality results without leaving the comforts of your home.

Main Features of this Adjustable Dumbbell

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More Flexibility, Less Space

Both men and women will be able to use these adjustable dumbbells, thanks to its flexible weight settings that range from a very light 5 pounds to a formidable 52.5 pounds. Because you need to gradually increase the weight to properly build your muscle gain over time, the slight increments of 2.5 pounds (from 5 to 25 pounds) and 5 pounds (from 25 to 50 pounds) are just right to help you make subtle but effective progress towards your fitness goals.

A full set of dumbbells from 5 to 50 pounds not only takes up a whole lot of room, but could easily cost two to three times more than this model. As a result, the SelectTech 552 saves space and offers better value since Bowflex is basically giving away 15 different sets of weights in one.

Versatile Weight Configuration

Bowflex introduced an innovative twist to the adjustable dumbbell’s design with their easy-to-use selection dials. These can be found at the end of the handles, which automatically locks on to the weight plates you select while the rest stays in the cradle, ready for the next round.

As the weights on each side can be set separately, you will be able to have one side heavier than the other, as required by certain types of workouts.

Fool-Proof Design

Perhaps the most common complaint with standard dumbbells is the clanging of metal plates, which can be a major distraction. To address this issue, the SelectTech 552 was made with a special mold that surrounds the plates for a smooth and silent workout.

The steel handle is shaped ergonomically (thicker in the center than the sides) to avoid wrist strain and topped with a textured rubber grip for slip-free performance.

As a safety feature, an audible click indicates when the weight you added is locked in position and ready to go. If you don’t hear it, then that means the selected weight is not properly loaded and you won’t be able to take it off the cradle.

Adapts to Your Workout

Another good thing that sets these Bowflex dumbbells apart is how well the two copes with individual strength-training exercises (for building muscle mass and strength) and fast-paced conditioning exercises (for endurance and weight loss).

This means that you will not only be able to simply “pump iron”, but also incorporate them into your P90X, CrossFit, and other speed circuit routines. Included with every purchase of these dumbbells is the Bowflex SelectTech workout DVD, dubbed “Secrets of the 4-Step Rep”.

This demonstrates all the 30 exercises and their variations to target different muscle groups in your legs, arms, abs, chest, shoulders and back, for a total body workout.

Verdict: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells Review

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells measure 15.7 by 8 by 9 inches (L x W x H) and weighs in at 52.5 pounds each. It comes with a full 2-year warranty on all parts including the grip and handles.

Cap Barbell Solid hex dumbbells are among today’s most popular types in the fixed weight category. They have been trusted by everyday gym rats and professional health buffs alike, due to their reliability, durability, and no-frills usability. But what’s even better about these weights is that they’re not just available in singles and pairs, but also sold as a set to help trainers on a budget.

Enter the Cap Barbell Solid Hex dumbbell set with rack. This 10-piece set feature 5 pairs of dumbbells that range from a light 5 pounds all the way to a solid 25 pounds, so it adapts to your routine as you get stronger.

As the name suggests, it comes complete with a two-tier rack that’s specifically designed to keep the weights organized for a clean and clutter-free workout space. Now you won’t have to spend extra for a dedicated shelf or leave your weights scattered all over the living room floor.

A Closer Look at the Cap Barbell Solid Hex Dumbbells

If you are looking for Solid Hex Dumbbell, you can read this review. Here we’ve tried to reveal best features of this dumbbell. So you can make your decision confirm that you will buy it or not.

150-Pound Set

The 10-piece collection comes in pairs of 5 to 25 pounds (in increments of 5 pounds) for a total of 150 pounds. These are indicated by the raised numbers on the side of the weights that makes it quicker and easier to switch pairs while you exercise.

Like the other products from Cap Barbell, these gray dumbbells are well-balanced in form and feature hexagon heads that prevent the weights from rolling off when you set them down. The convenient shape and design also allow the weights to deliver a full range of motion and provide a more natural feel during lifting.

Cast Iron Strength

The dumbbell heads and handles are made of 100-percent welded cast iron which means it has all the goodness that this heavy-duty material brings.

For one, cast-iron can stand the test of time, unlike concrete-filled vinyls that easily crack or break with one drop.

It’s specifically designed to resist impact and stress, which gives it the formidable ability to withstand repeated abuse. Since they’re much denser than others, cast iron dumbbells achieve the target weight in less the space too.

Plus, they’re way cheaper and easier to clean compared to the extravagant chrome plates you see advertised on the television.

Easy-Grip Handlebars

Although the straight handlebars are lacking those ergonomic curves, they are nicely textured so they’re easy on the hands and comfy to grip even on extended use. Because of this, the hex dumbbells are great for multiple reps and fast-paced workouts without the weights slipping off your hands as sweat and fatigue kicks in.

Each dumbbell in the set is topped off with a classic enamel finish, so you won’t have to suffer the awful plastic stink that rubber heads give off. The semi-gloss finish also encases the cast-iron handles and heads with a rust-resistant coat that serves as an added level of protection.

Two-Tier Rack Included

As a bonus, the set comes bundled with a two-tier rack so you won’t have to leave the weights muddled on the floor. The rack is made from solid steel, so it’s just about as long-lasting as the dumbbells themselves.

If you’re wondering about the rack assembly, then don’t worry because the package includes an IKEA-like instruction manual to walk you through each step. This process shouldn’t take longer than five minutes too, so you’ll have your weights organized and ready-to-use in no time.

Additional Information

The Cap Barbell Solid Hex Dumbbell Set is not only suitable for iron-pumping exercises, but also ideal for cardio, calisthenics, and speed circuit-routines like P90X. It has a weight of 180 pounds (with the rack) and is covered by the manufacturer’s 30-day warranty against defects in materials and craftsmanship.

Founded in 1991, PowerBlock Inc has quickly risen to fame as one of the most trusted innovators in the world of fitness. The unique design and innovative features of their adjustable dumbbells has taken the industry by storm, as they combine variety, affordability, and space-saving utility in one easy-to-use set.

One of their top models is the PowerBlock Elite 50. Featuring black powder-coated weight plates in a convenient square design, these dumbbells are ideal for building muscle mass and strength, toning your physique, or getting rid of excess body fat.

It uses a simple but effective weight adjustment system to change the resistance from 5 to 50 pounds, with no special set ups required. And if you want to up the ante in the future, this model can be expanded up to a full 130 pounds as your strength improves.

Key Features of the powerblock Elite 50

Safe and Effective

While most adjustable dumbbells employ a digital rotator or dial mechanism to change weights, the PowerBlock Elite 50 begs to differ. Instead, these dumbbells use a selector pin to adjust to your desired weights, from a minimum of 5 pounds up to a maximum of 50 pounds, with many options in between.

To prevent the weights from slipping off, it includes a secure locking feature that secures the weights firmly during lifting. With a low increment of 2.5 pounds, these dumbbells can be used by both men and women, and eliminates the risk of muscle strains caused by increasing weights rapidly.

Serious Space Saver

Thanks to its effective weight adjustment mechanism, the Elite 50 is extremely compact so you can save valuable floor space. No matter if you’re doing bicep curls with 5 pounds or chest presses with the full 50 pounds, the compact size will let you keep the dumbbells closer to your body than its bulkier counterparts.

The extensive weight range also allows this pair of dumbbells to take the place of 16 individual sets of dumbbells, or roughly 825 pounds of free weights. Just imagine the amount of space (and cash) taken up by that many dumbbells and separate weight plates!

Square Plate Design

The Elite 50 comes with black powder-coated weight plates that are square in design, which means the dumbbells can be used as push-up bars – something that you simply cannot do with rounded weight plates.

This gives an extra dimension to your routine and saves you the trouble and added cost of getting a separate push-up bar. The squared form will also let you store the weights flat on the floor in-between sets without the risk of rolling, which can cause injuries at home and in the gym.

Ergonomic Form

Of course, the company didn’t just focus their attention on the dumbbells’ weight plates and adjustment mechanism. For the dumbbell bar, they decided to stick with the traditional straight handle to promote an easy and ergonomic grip. It also comes wrapped with a neoprene fabric that ensures a slip-free and comfortable feel even on extended periods.

Additionally, if you want to prevent the weights from being damaged. Then you may purchase the optional PowerBlock column stand, which is specially designed to present the dumbbells at an easy-to-reach level. This also offers the added benefit of relieving any strain on your back, due to constantly bending down and lifting the heavy dumbbells off the floor.

Additional Information

The PowerBlock Elite 50 Set Dumbbell measures 12 by 6 by 6 inches (L x W x H). And weighs 50 pounds each. It’s expandable to 70, 90, and 130 pounds. Its also covered by the manufacturer’s 10-year home use warranty.

Verdict: PowerBlock Elite 50 Review

If you are looking for a perfect and a good adjustable dumbbell, you can go with it. Overall editor rating is positive. So this elit Dumbbell can fulfill your requirements.