Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells Review

A full review of Bowflex Selecttech Dumbells model 1090, 552 and 220.

The Bowflex dumbbells come in three flavors - Bowflex 1090 (10 pounds - 90 pounds) Bowflex 552 (5 pounds - 52.5 pounds), and the Bowflex 220 dumbbells (2.5 pounds - 20 pounds).

Each set of dumbbells is identical in function and design, so I'll primarily be reviewing the Bowflex 552's since that's what most people will end up getting for their home gym.

What I liked about the Selecttech Dumbells

The selecttechs are a giant leap forward in dumbbell design from a mechanical and aesthetic viewpoint. Unlike Powerblock dumbbells, the Bowflex Selecttechs are beautiful in their design, and similar in function for the fact that you won't need to give up 20 square feet of floor space in your gym.

The selecttech dumbbells are unique in the fact that you can incrementally adjust the weight of each dumbbell from a mere 5 pounds all the way up to 52.5 pounds(2.5 lb. increments the first 25 lbs.) with a quick turn of the endcap dial.

Bowflex thought long and hard about the ergonomics of the selecttech's design and it shows right away when you pick up a set for the first time.

The thing that struck me right away, was the fact that the dumbbell handle is the pro style grip (found on more expensive club level dumbbells). This may seem like a trivial fact to some, but you'll be glad you have a superior grip when you're busy using them each day - that's why you're going to buy them right?

As far as using the dumbbells for a workout, I found the selecttechs to be very simple to operate and had no trouble adjusting between the lightest and heaviest weight settings on the fly.

I must add that I did find them 'easier' to adjust with the optional stand where you can perform the dial adjustments at waist level instead of crouching down (in other words buy a stand with them if your budget allows).

During my workout I felt the dumbbells were stable and solid, and had no misgivings about placing the weights in harms way over my head. Overall my experience with the Bowflex 552 dumbbells was a very pleasant surprise.

What I didn't like about the Bowflex Selecttech Dumbells

My comments to this point have been positive about the selecttechs, but I do have two words of caution if you're considering buying a set for your home gym.

First off, since the selecttechs do have mechanical linkage parts inside of them I would caution against dropping these dumbbells repeatedly or you may end up breaking them (or your floor for that matter) - on the other hand Bowflex doesn't offer a long warranty so it shouldn't be an issue anyway.

And second, although the design and ergonomics are great, hardcore weight lifters may wish they didn't top out at 90 pounds for the Selecttech 1090's. If that describes you, the powerblocks are a better bet because they have an elite set of dumbells that goes up to 130 pounds each.

With that said, most people won't ever need more weight than the 552's (5 pounds - 52.5 pounds) so I personally consider it a non-issue.

Conclusion

I recommend the Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells for the average home gym user who is looking for weight set that works great and takes up a bare minimum of valuable floor space - for the money you can't beat them for ease of use and functionality.

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