When searching for dumbbells online you must have come across colored dumbbells. Some mention it as Neoprene and others mention Vinyl. They both look similar in color, but their construction is different. While most folks suggest Neoprene over Vinyl Dumbbells, after reading this article their views may change.
Let me clear one thing before you start reading. Both the Neoprene and Vinyl are just the coatings provided over the metal dumbbell. The whole dumbbell isn’t made of those materials itself.
Providing these coatings increases the life of the dumbbells. Preventing it from rusting, and also protecting your floor if you accidentally drop them. This doesn’t work all the time though!. Dumbbells are heavy and will break the flooring if it is delicate.
If you have already made a decision that you are going to buy none other than these Neoprene/ Vinyl ones, that’s great!. But if your decision is still stuck, please read our guide on Buying Dumbbells where we explain the different types of dumbbells for your home gym.
At first, we will explain what these coatings are actually made of (technical stuff!), and then we shall mention each case scenario and whether you should buy them or not.
Table of Contents
Building Material
Vinyl Coating for the Dumbbell provides it a glossy look. PVC Vinyl Coating is a coating composed of synthetic resin or plastic. PVC Vinyl Coating is a great way to protect metal parts from the environment. It is a durable coating that is applied to the surface of the dumbbell and will resist fading, staining, scratches, and water damage.
Neoprene Coating for the Dumbbell provides it with a Textured Surface Finish. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber substance that is also known as polychloroprene. It is a thin, flexible, and durable layer that is applied to various surfaces to protect them from moisture, dust, and other contaminants.
In short, Plastic (Vinyl) vs Rubber (Neoprene) is what it is.
Price
Neoprene, technically being rubber coating is actually cheaper than Vinyl Coating. At the time I write this article, a pair of 20 lb Neoprene Coated DB costs 49$ and a Vinyl Coated DB costs 71$.
Sizes
Both the Neoprene and Vinyl Coated Dumbbells are sold in sizes ranging from 1 lb to 20 lbs. Anything above, you should look for Rubber coated Hex Dumbbells.
User Experience
Both provide us with a similar feeling while working out. Vinyl coating provides a smooth and soft surface. Neoprene provides a rough-textured surface which provides a better grip.
At the beginning of the workout, both provide a similar grip. When we start to sweat, vinyl dumbbells get slippery. If they are heavy enough to cause a drop, which may lead to injuries.
Neoprene Dumbbells, by default, have a rough-textured grip that holds the gip during sweats. Depending on the weather and skin condition, can sometimes be slippery too. So, wearing a decent pair of gym gloves is highly recommended for both cases.
Durability
In general, Neoprene Dumbbells are more durable than vinyl ones. Vinyl ones tend to develop cracks faster than neoprene ones. If dropped, both can crack, but in comparison, vinyl dumbells have a weak surface.
If you are not using Neoprene dumbbells for a long time, since the coating is made of rubber will eventually catch boost leading to cracks (depending on the quality of coating). However Plastic (Vinyl) doesn’t have any such issues.
Usage Scenarios
Both the Neoprene and Vinyl ones are perfect for indoor use. Especially working women prefer these Dumbbells who cannot manage time visiting professional Gyms.
Also, those who cannot manage space for the home gym can get these. Doesn’t look odd to be used in bedrooms. However, if you are someone who likes to keep these dumbbells in the closet after use, I recommend buying vinyl ones, since they are easy to clean.
Reliability
Both are extremely reliable if aren’t exposed to direct sunlight and are used indoors only. Comparing both, Vinyl coating is prone to crack in the long run. Neoprene generally lasts longer.
Again when it comes to the time when you are not using both for a very long time, Neoprene Coating may catch moisture boost and may develop cracks. On the other hand, Vinyl Coating, being made of plastic will last longer when kept away from direct sunlight.
Cleaning
Since Vinyl Dumbbells have a smooth finish, they are easier to clean. Just wipe off the dirt and you can store them anywhere. In the closet, in the Gym Bag, Indoor Garage, Bedroom, etc.
It is hard to clean Neoprene Dumbells due to their rough surface finish. Dirt adheres to it easily. By the way, when you are using indoors, you need not worry.
Health Warning
Neoprene coatings can cause cancer. Well, I am not a doctor to justify this. Make sure you keep them away from children. Wash your hands after operating them. Also, Neoprene being a rubber coating, exhibits its own smell which might be irritating for some people.
If you have children around, go with the Vinyl ones for safety reasons. Precaution is always better than cure.
Not all Neoprene Dumbbells have this warning label. Most of them being imported from China (including the Amazon Basics ones) makes sense!.
FAQs
Are Neoprene Dumbbells always better than Vinyl Dumbbells?
No!. If it was why would the manufacturers still produce them? Vinyl being expensive is still widely sold. Vinyl Dumbbells are non-toxic. When there are children around, you should go for Vinyl.
Which has a better grip? Vinyl or Neoprene Dumbbells?
During sweating, Neoprene Dumbbells with the advantage of a textured surface provide better grip than vinyl ones which have a smooth surface. However, wearing a decent pair of gloves increases the grip during sweating in both cases. If working out with bare hands, always remember to wash after using neoprene ones which may be toxic.
Who shouldn’t buy the Neoprene/ Vinyl Dumbells?
If you are building a professional home gym, definitely this is not for you. Why would you invest in an expensive piece of equipment when you get the professional long-lasting Steel Dumbbells for about the same price? I would recommend you to invest in individual Rubber Hex Dumbbells if you can expand your budget. Or, you can buy a decent quality Manual Screw Dumbbell set for cheap. Or if you are someone who is having absolutely no space for the home gym, you can buy the expensive Adjustable Dumbbells. I suggest you read this Dumbbell Buying Guide for home gym to help you make a decision.
Who should buy the Neoprene/ Vinyl Dumbells?
If you are a senior citizen or a diabetic patient, I suggest you buy the Vinyl Coated Dumbbells. Apart from being slippery, they are non-toxic. Elderly folks can exercise indoors with these dumbbells.
Which causes more Flooring damage, Neoprene or Vinyl Dumbbells?
Both cause equal damage. Neoprene being a thin layer, and Vinyl being a thick layer for the same weight will cause equal damage to the flooring. If you are really worried about flooring, you should invest in some decent flooring options.