Weight Plates, Barbell and Dumbbell Types: An In-Depth Comparison Weight Plates, Barbell and Dumbbell Types: An In-Depth Comparison You might think that free weights are all pretty much the same. After all, their basic function involves being a certain poundage to provide resistance when exercising. That’s hardly rocket science, right? When it comes to free weights, however, the details can make a big difference. In this article, we compare and contrast the various types of weight covering materials to help you make the smartest purchasing decisions when it comes to bumper plates, olympic plates, barbells, kettlebells and dumbbells. The 4 Main Weight CoveringsThere are four basic types of workout weight, with each having a distinct covering. The free weight options discussed here have a cast iron core, so the actual weight you’re lifting is pretty much the same. It’s the different types of covering that make each one unique. Painted WeightsPainted dumbbells, barbells or weight plates simply coat the cast iron weight with an anti rust covering. These are the least expensive types of fixed dumbbells and barbells that you can buy. The main problem with painted weights is that the paint can easily chip off. Dumbbells are subject to some pretty harsh treatment so most painted dumbbells will get banged up pretty quickly. Painted weights are also more noisy than coated ones as there is no padding to absorb the noise of the impact when you drop them. They are also more prone to have sharp edges, not to mention the fact that paint flecks are liable to fall into your eyes when you’re doing the dumbbell bench press (trust me, I know from experience!). You are likely to find painted dumbbells, barbells and plates in dungeon style industrial gyms. Chrome PlatedChrome dumbbells and barbells usually have a shiny silver, gleaming boutique appearance. They usually top out at around 20 pounds, being mainly for light gym use. These weights are electroplated with a light covering of chrome. The handles typically attach to the head with a screw in the handle. RubberRubber covered dumbbells, barbells and plates are quite popular due to their protective covering to prevent damage to floors and racks. Rubber is a relatively durable cast iron covering. However, you will see wear and tear over time. Rubber does not do well when exposed to sunlight so you will want to keep your rubber weights indoors. There are three qualities of rubber that may be used. These are:
![]() The end quality of the rubber in terms of elasticity, fluidity, strength and durability will depend on the mixing ratio. Each manufacturer guards his mixing ratio closely. However, none of them use 100 percent original rubber. All rubber emits an odor. Generally speaking, the stronger the odor, the lower the quality of the rubber that has been used. Most rubber dumbbells will have a cast iron head but a steel handle. Rubber dumbbell shapes include hexagonal, round and 12-sided. The hex shape provides the greatest stability as it will not roll around on the floor when you’re doing exercises like renegade rows. When it comes to that vital combination of premium quality and value for money in a rubber dumbbell set, you won’t get much better than French Fitness. They offer a wide rage of rubber dumbbell set configurations, including racks and benches, that will save you some serious dollars! UrethaneUrethane is the cream of the crop when it comes to weight coverings. Not surprisingly, it is also the most expensive. Unlike rubber, there is no odor with urethane weights. However, urethane dumbbells, barbells and plates look very much like rubber. ![]() This material is also extremely hardy, meaning that it is easily the most durable dumbbell, barbell and weight plate covering material. That factor should be taken into account when looking at the cost comparison with rubber or other types of weight; they generally work out more cost effectively in the long run. Urethane dumbbells are available in a range of shapes, including the ever popular hexagonal design. Urethane weight coverings are technically called polyurethane or PU. There are two types:
The main difference between the two is that TPU weights are injection molded under high temperatures while CPU gets melted in a mold. CPU weights will last about twice as long as TPU, with a lifespan of around 8 years. CPU is not as environmentally friendly as the material cannot be recycled. The head of a CPU dumbbell is constructed of steel whereas that of a TPU weight is made of cast iron. CPU weights will always be slightly more expensive than TPU. Types of Weight Plates![]() Bumper PlatesBumper Plates are exclusively made from rubber or urethane apart from a small metal insert in the middle. This allows them to bounce when dropped. That means they will not damage your floor. They are popular for Crossift and Olympic lifting. The range of Bumper Plates available from French Fitness includes some packages offering spectacular bulk purchase savings. ![]() RubberRubber coated Olympic weight plates are the most popular option for both commercial and home use. French Fitness Rubber plates feature wide rims, along with three gripping spaces. They are also available in budget priced package deals. ![]() Cast IronSolid cast iron plates are powder coated and feature a built in lip and flat surface to assist with loading and offloading. They are available in solid and easy grip designs. The Cast Iron finish is popular with kettlebells, providing the natural grip and feel that this unique training tool demands. If you’re on the hunt for premium level cast iron kettlebells at a great price, French Fitness offers them singly and in sets ranging from 5-70 lbs with hard-to-beat deals . UrethaneUrethane plates may look similar to their rubber counterparts but there are some key differences. They will not produce an odor and are much stronger and more durable. You’ll also notice the difference in feel, with urethane having a more non tacky texture to them. Urethane Olympic plates can also be customized with logos and branding. Urethane dumbbells are odorless, more durable than rubber and have greater shock resistance for longer life. French Fitness Urethane 8-sided hexagonal dumbbells are available in the following sets:
If your preference is for round pro style dumbbells, French Fitness also offer sets ranging from 5 to 100 lbs. In addition, they offer a premium urethane EZ-Curl barbell set (20-110 lbs) that features solid steel knurled handles and black urethane plating. |