| Unit | Max. Dimensions | Type | Weight range | Weight increments | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Powerblock Sport 24 lb Check Discounted Price | L:10.5" W:5.25" H:5" | Adjustable, locking pin | 3-24 lbs | 3 lbs | 10 years |
Even though they’ve been around since 1993, PowerBlock still offers some of the finest adjustable dumbbells that you can find. So far, several series have been issued, such as the Elite series, Sports Series and the most recent one, the Urethane series.
In this review we’ll address the PowerBlock Sport 24 set, which are adjustable dumbbells with a weight range between 3-24 lbs, for each dumbbell. They feature steel (not urethane) weight plates, and they’re one of the series that’s still made in the U.S.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.5L x 5.25W x 5H inches (26.6L x 13.3W x 12.7H cm)
- Weight range: 3 to 24 lbs (1.3 to 10.8 kg) each
- Weight increments: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 lbs
- Warranty: 10 years
Overall construction
The PowerBlock Sport 24 adjustable dumbbells feature a slightly different design than the Elite series models. The weight plates are rounded at the top, they’re not square like the Elite ones. Also, these dumbbells are not compatible with weight plate upgrade kits which normally work for the elite ones. In fact, this dumbbells set is not upgradable at all.
Other than these differences, the construction of the PowerBlock Sport is pretty similar to the Elites.
The main handle only features one bar, the center bar, which is basically the grip of the handle assembly. It doesn’t have the extra four bars connecting the edges of the plastic “nesting” boards. The grip of the handle features neoprene coating, for a more comfortable grip. This neoprene rubber foam not only that it’s non-abrasive, it also absorbs perspiration, supplying a very secure grip. Also, the “nesting” boards on each side of the grip, on which the weight plates attach, are made of heavy-duty plastic.
The weight plates used in the construction of these dumbbells are steel-made, each set of two being connected by two steel rods. The plates and rods are coated with anti-corrosive, durable gray enamel, quite resistant to chipping or scratching. The sustaining rods of the weight plates feature plastic sheets of different colors, matching the color coding on the support handle.
The selector pin which picks up the weight plate sets is not metallic though. It’s made of heavy-duty polyurethane material, quite elastic and durable, actually being able to support a much greater weight than the maximum 24 lbs of each dumbbell.
Since they don’t have an extremely high weight range, these dumbbells are also not very bulky. With a length of 10.5″ (26.6 cm) and a 5.25″ (13.3 cm) width, they shouldn’t get in the way of just about any exercise. However, due to their unconventional construction, for certain exercises they’re meant to be held by the exterior bars, not the inner grip. For example, if you want to do overhead triceps exercises, using only one dumbbell, it’s best to hold it that way.
Last but not least, in case you’re wondering, this dumbbell set is shipped in two boxes. Each dumbbell comes in its own box.
Adjustment system and increments
The adjustment system of the PowerBlock Sport 24 dumbbells is simpler than for the heavier ones. First of all, there are only 8 adjustment increments: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 lbs (1.3, 2.7, 4.0, 5.4, 6.8, 8.1, 9.5, 10.8 kg). The set doesn’t have additional 
weight cylinders to be inserted into the handles, like the heavier sets, such as the Sport 90 or the Elite 70. The handle itself weighs 3 lbs (1.3 kg). There are 7 sets of weights, each weight plate set which attaches to the handle via the pin, weighs 3 lbs (1.3 kg) as well.
The weight increments are marked on the handle and color coded. For example, the 21 lbs (9.5 kg) weight increment is color coded red. Thus, in order to select this weight for each dumbbell, you have to insert the selector pin onto the red bar on the side of the dumbbell. Adjustment doesn’t take more than 4-5 seconds, as opposed to 45-50 seconds, the amount of time which would take to adjust a classic cast iron dumbbell, with collars, such as the Yes4All. Therefore, these adjustable dumbbells are perfect for workout programs such as P90X.
The Pros
- Extra fast adjustment system;
- Space-savvy, each dumbbell replaces 8 non-adjustable dumbbells;
- Sleek design, aspect which can also be quite a motivation factor;
- Excellent for beginners and intermediate users;
- Extremely safe locking system;
- Ergonomic handle, with rubberized coating for a secure grip, also preventing the formation of blisters;
- All-steel plates, coated with anti-corrosive paint;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- No weight expansion kit available;
- Users with extremely large hands and wrists may find the interior of these dumbbells a bit narrow.
Final Conclusion
The PowerBlock Sport 24 are adjustable dumbbells for beginner and intermediate users. They’re versatile, space-saving, excellent for home use, and feature superior ergonomics. They have an extremely safe locking / adjustment system compared with other adjustable dumbbells. In fact, so far these dumbbells have benefited mostly from 4-5 star reviews from many users all over the world. And finally, considering that the set actually covers 16 hex dumbbells, and a total of 216 lbs of free weights, we can safely say that their price is fairly decent.