15 Best Water Weights For Aqua Aerobics, Expert Picks (2024)
Burn those unwanted calories with weights that help perform underwater workouts.
Robert is a certified personal trainer, fat loss expert, muscle building specialist, and the owner of Eliteman coaching fitness company. He has 15 years of experience and is passionate about helping/coaching people become their best selves, starting with fitness and nutrition.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Here is an idea to give your swimming exercise class an interesting twist. To do that, you need the best water dumbbells. This tiny water equipment is a tried-and-tested way to make your swimming classes fun and give you that full-body workout! What’s more, they are made of special foams, which can make water exercises effective and burn those extra calories. If you are thinking of doing some lunges and curls underwater, water dumbbells are the right choice for you. They are also an excellent workout for expert folks who are keen on trying new things to keep themselves fit. Robert Savin, a master trainer with 15 years of experience, states, “Working out in water offers great benefits such as increased resistance and improved mobility all while being gentle on the joints. Thus, this exercise is ideal for folks with joint issues. For added resistance underwater, water dumbbells can help you progress at a much faster rate toward your goal.
Well, if you are looking for one, check out our list of water dumbbells with the best reviews available now! Scroll down to know more! It is worth checking out if you intend to make your swimming exercise classes super fun.
In This Article
The Top-Rated Water Weights Of 2024
Note: Consult a doctor before buying water exercise equipment and starting aqua aerobics.
1. Best Lightweight Dumbbells:Trademark Innovations Aquatic Exercise Dumbells
These water dumbbellsare made from EVA foam and have a low rate of water absorption, providing you the buoyancy you need. They provide enough resistance for proper upper body and lower back workouts. These water dumbbells also help work out your abs, ensuring a total body workout. These have lightly padded handles, so it is easier to grip them while they are wet. Check out some of the online reviews on Amazon to learn more about the product.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 0.66 lbs
Size: 11″ L x 6″ W
Pros
- Great for core and overall body workout
- Easy to grip handles
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Good resistance
Cons
- A few models may not be sturdy enough.
"These water dumbbells are slightly oversized but they are great when I want to intensify my pool workouts. They are sturdy and durable and offer excellent resistance."
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 592 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
2. Best Durable Quality:Speedo Aqua Fitness Barbells
These barbells are made of chlorine-resistant EVA foam and are lightweight. Each barbell weighs a pound. However, underwater they provide a resistance of 45 pounds. These barbells have soft padded grips for extended workout sessions and will not slip from your hands easily. These are comfortable to hold and provide flotation assistance that helps build your upper body strength. Click here to check out an in-depth review of this product featuring the reviewer’s experience.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 1 lb
Size: One size
Pros
- Chlorine-resistant EVA foam
- Padded grips
- Provide good balance and resistance
- Sturdy
- Durable
Cons
- Take time to dry (hold water for long).
"I look forward to my daily workouts ever since I got these aquatic weights. They help me truly enjoy my workout sessions. They offer stability for exercises like water planks. They seem durable and comfortable to grip."
3. Best Low Water Absorption:ZEYU SPORTS Aquatic Exercise Dumbbells
These EVA foam aquatic dumbbells have a low rate of water absorption, keeping you buoyant while providing enough resistance for a proper workout. They are suitable for working out your upper body, lower back, and abs. However, these should not be used as floatation devices. They are recommended for anyone above 14 years of age.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 0.66 lbs
Size: 10.9″ L x 5.7″ W
Pros
- EVA foam
- Low water absorption
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to hold
Cons
- May not be durable.
"These aqua barbells are perfect for use during low-impact exercises. They are versatile and help tone the muscles without strain. They are quite easy to assemble and good for regular water aerobics or home pool workouts."
Pro Tip4. Best For Upper Extremities:TheraBand Water Weights
These water weights are made of buoyant foam and are perfect for the rehabilitation of shoulder injuries and post-surgery recovery. They are also helpful in helping you increase your resistance during upper and lower body water workouts. These water weights can help increase your flexibility and range of motion in your upper and lower extremities.
Specifications
Material: Foam
Weight: 1 lb
Size: 12” x 12” x 9”
Pros
- Available in three resistance and buoyancy levels.
- Does not absorb water.
Cons
- The foam might shred/crumble.
"These aqua dumbbells are great for enhancing pool workouts. They perform well in the water and offer good resistance. They can be be used regularly and are quite durable."
5. Best In Easy To Carry:bintiva Aqua Dumbbell Set
These water dumbbells are available in three different sizes. The bigger the size, the more the resistance. The inner pipe of the dumbbells is made with strong (non-PVC) components. These are padded with a cushion that helps you grip them easily and comfortably. They help you increase your flexibility and range of motion.
Specifications
Material: Foam
Weight: 15.2 oz (Small), 13.6 oz (Medium and Large)
Size: 6” x 8.5” (Small), 6” x 10.5” (Medium), 6” x 12.4 ”(Large)
Pros
- Soft hand grip
- Durable
- Easy to carry and store
Cons
- Resistance type and weight are not specified.
"These aquatic dumbbells are quite useful for adding resistance. I've been using them almost every other day and they have held up well. Credit also goes to the fact that I rinse them off after each swim and take proper care."
6. Best For Resistance Exercises:Aqua Sphere Ergobells
These are best for resistance training, low-impact conditioning, and increasing your upper body strength. As these ergobells are made of non-waterlogging EVA foam, they provide continuous buoyancy along with resistance. They have a unique design, which makes it easier for you to grasp them any way you want to. This makes exercising easier. They are great for anyone who is recovering from an injury or has physical conditions like arthritis. Check out the several positive reviews online to learn more about this product.
Specifications
Material: Non-waterlogging EVA foam
Weight: Less than a pound
Size: 14” x 7” x 5”
Pros
- Easy to hold
- Best for lightweight resistance exercises
- Easy to store
- Great for physical therapy
Cons
- Expensive
"These aqua dumbbells have upped my water workouts. Whether I'm doing curls or arm circles, they create the right level of resistance to feel the burn. They are sturdy and made to made last long. They are versatile enough to suit different fitness levels."
7. Best Waterproof Material:KLOLKUTTA Aquatic Dumbbells
These water dumbbells are made of high-quality EVA foam. They are extremely lightweight, durable, and waterproof. These water dumbbells provide floatation support unlike many other water dumbbells and have soft padded grips. These help you use them comfortably during extended workouts. These dumbbells are available in four colors and are extremely buoyant.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 8.5 ounces
Size: 10.6” x 6” x 6”
Pros
- Low water absorption
- Can be used for floatation support
- Durable handle
- Comfortable grip
- Waterproof
Cons
- The two foam ends might slip off the bar.
"These Ergobells have a unique shape. They have comfortable grips and offer versatility to my workouts. They are good for performing different motion exercises without straining the joints. They feel gentle and are perfect for those with hand discomfort."
8. Best Comfortable Grip:Power Systems Water Dumbbells
These are one of the best comfortable water weights that are available in three different resistance levels. The heavy ones are suitable for strong users. The light ones are meant for beginners and rehabilitation purposes, and the medium resistance ones are for medium users. These water weights have cushioned hand grips that are comfortable. The EVA foam is non-porous and durable.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 1.1 lbs (shipping)
Size: 6″ x 10″ x 16″ (shipping)
Pros
- Cushioned handle
- 3 resistance levels
- Non-abrasive EVA foam
- Water-resistant
- Bacteria and UV resistant
Cons
- The foam at either end keeps coming off.
"These aqua dumbbells come in handy for both my classes and personal pool sessions. They are comfortably padded and can last you for a long time. They provide excellent resistance that enhances my water aerobics exercises."
9. Best In Easy To Use:Kiefer Water Workout Dumbbells
These water weights have two Wave Eater racing lane floats attached to the two sides of a lightweight handle. These turbo-reactive discs give you even natural resistance when you move underwater. You can easily modify these floats to tailor your workout routine. These dumbbells have fillable handles. If you want to increase your resistance, you can fill the handles with water. For more resistance, fill them with sand. They are ideal for people of all levels of fitness, water therapy, and water aerobics programs. The yellow ones are for medium resistance. They are also available with light resistance.
Specifications
Material: N/A (Racing lane floats)
Weight: 2.09 pounds
Size: 6” diameter floats
Pros
- Multiple resistance levels
- Resistance can be modified
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Great for beginners
Cons
- The ends might slip from the handle.
"These dumbbells are easy to adjust and offer a versatile workout. They are great for adding resistance to water exercises. They are fairly easy to handle. Their adjustable resistance helps target different muscle groups."
10. Best Quick-Drying Dumbells:CAP Barbell Ankle/Wrist Weights
If you want to increase the intensity of your pool workouts, add these ankle and wrist bands to your workout routine. These adjustable ankle/wrist weights can help tone your body and improve flexibility and range of motion. They are made of soft and stretchy neoprene breathable fabric and are extremely comfortable to wear. They have nylon fastening closures that can be adjusted to fit any ankle or wrist size.
Specifications
Material: Neoprene fabric
Weight: 2.09 lbs
Size: 12” x 5” x 2” (adjustable)
Pros
- Breathable fabric
- Adjustable design
- Dries quickly
- Comfortable
- Good quality
Cons
- Might cause chafing in the ankle.
"These versatile ankle weights are great for enhancing water-based exercise routines. The long Velcro straps fit my thicker ankles and feel comfortable during use. I use them for both leg and arm exercises because they offer good resistance."
11. Best Mold-Resistant:Coast Athletic Pool Wrist & Ankle Weights
This is a pair of weights that can be used as both wrist and ankle weights. They have adjustable straps for an easy fit. These greatly aid in enhancing your aquatic fitness level. They are mold-resistant and odor-resistant. They can be used for therapeutic purposes or aquatic aerobic routine. They are made with water-resistant material and dry very quickly.
Specifications
Material: Water-resistant fabric
Weight: 3-10 lbs
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Dry easily
- Sturdy
Cons
- Might cause chafing.
12. Best For Physical Therapy:Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set
These water dumbbells are made of EVA foam and give flotation support as these have low rates of water absorption. The grip has a soft pad covering and is perfect for extended workouts. These dumbbells can be used to build muscles and improve endurance and flexibility. They provide additional resistance under the water and are a perfect addition to your aerobic routine.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 0.37 lbs (each)
Size: 12″ L x 7″ W
Pros
- Great for physical therapy
- Available in multiple colors
- Sturdy
- Good quality
- Comfortable cushioned grip
Cons
- The handles might be small for big hands.
"These aquatic dumbbells offer good resistance for water exercises. They have been helping me enhance my workouts, especially for my shoulders. They feel durable and convenient to use."
13. Best For Low Impact Workouts:TYR Aquatic Resistance Dumbbells
These water dumbbells are made from EVA foam. They are lightweight, buoyant, and provide good resistance to improve your workout routine. These dumbbells are easy to hold as they have soft, comfortable grips meant for long, low-impact workouts without tiring your hands out. They help improve your upper body strength and offer maximum flotation support. They have a closed-cell construction and are chlorine-resistant. Reviewers with arm issues have found this product to be more efficient over round end dumbbells.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: N/A
Size: 5.5 L x 2.54 W cm
Pros
- Lightweight
- Chlorine-resistant
- Easy to grip
- Superior resistance
- Suitable for low impact workout
Cons
- The foam holds water and takes time to dry.
"I've been using these water weights every day in my routine and they are my favorite gym companion. They are best when I want to perform low-impact exercise in the pool. They're comfortable to hold and offer good resistance."
14. Best For Low Resistance Workouts:FANZEOS Aquatic Exercise Dumbbells
These are easy to carry and easy to store aquatic dumbbells and a perfect addition to your water aerobics routine. They are made of EVA foam that stays buoyant and provides enough resistance to develop your upper body strength, along with your abs and back. They do not absorb water much and don’t take long to dry.
Specifications
Material: EVA foam
Weight: 0.66 lbs
Size: 11″ L x 6″ W
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Lightweight
- Suitable for low-resistance workouts
- Suitable for therapy
Cons
- The foam might slip from the handle.
15. Best Chlorine-Resistant:AquaJogger Delta-Bells (Medium Resistance)
These water barbells have a triangular-shaped foam, which is equally suitable for both beginners and advanced exercisers. The barbells have an extra-large and soft padded grip that helps to keep your hands comfortable. Anyone who has a weak grip (due to arthritis) can easily hold them. These have a closed-cell and chlorine-resistant build and extremely durable.
Specifications
Material: Foam
Weight: 1.25 lbs
Size: 11.5”
Pros
- Chlorine-resistant
- Lightweight
- Soft and comfortable grip
- Durable
Cons
- None
Water dumbbells, barbells, ankle, and wrist weights are popular water weights used for aquatic exercises. However, among the wide variety, water dumbells and barbells are the most popular ones. Once you have consulted a doctor and a fitness instructor, you might want to buy water weights. Here are a few things to keep in mind while buying them.
How To Buy The Right Water Weight For Aquatic Aerobics
- Check The Material: Choose water dumbbells and barbells made of EVA foam as these are lightweight, durable, and will keep you buoyant.
- The Shape Of The Water Weight: Usually, water dumbells and barbells are round, but the shape may vary. You may come across triangle and square-shaped water weights. These help you adjust the resistance and are easier to store (they do not roll). You can pick any of these as per your convenience.
- The Right Equipment: If you want a water weight that helps you swim, buy a water barbell (swim bar). The water barbell has a long bar that you can hold with both hands and practice your swim strokes. If you are confused about which equipment to choose, you may consult your fitness coach for their expert perspective.
- Check The Grip: Check if the aquatic dumbbell or barbell has a soft and comfortable grip. This will allow you to hold it easily when wet.
Avoid buying water weights unless advised by your wellness consultant to use a particular tool or start doing aqua exercises. It can be dangerous to perform such exercises without expert guidance and supervision of a certified personal trainer. However, when used under expert guidance, water weights have immense benefits.
Benefits Of Using Water Weights For Exercise
- They are best for low-impact exercises without straining your joints and ligaments. They are best for those who have physical conditions like arthritis or an injury and for beginners.
- They support your spine, which is unlike training in a gym. The buoyancy of water supports your spinal column and reduces pressure on it. Exercising with water weights speeds up recovery for those who have a spinal injury.
- They help reduce inflammation and support your joints and tendons to regain strength. Water acts as a compressor, and exercising with water weights helps reduce swelling.
- Exercising with water weights adds resistance to your workout and helps build muscles. This means that you get to burn fat and tone your muscles. Moreover, it also helps you target all the smaller muscle groups that you usually miss out on when you train on the land.
- They help tone your arms and build strength, especially your triceps, back, and abdomen. This is because when you push a water dumbbell down, you are pushing against the resistance of water, which is very different than lifting a dumbbell in the gym.
Moreover, water is 4 to 42 times more resistant than air. Hence, you also get a good cardiovascular workout.
Infographic: How To Use Water Weights For Aqua Aerobics
Water weights are a fantastic addition to your aqua aerobics routine, providing resistance and intensifying your workout for better results. To make the most of them, it is important to follow proper techniques and guidelines. Check out the infographic below for tips to enhance your workout in the water.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Water weights are made of special foams that can help you burn extra calories. If you want to shape your muscles, these weights are great for maintaining core strength and practicing overall body workouts. The water weights are useful because they provide enough resistance for upper and lower back workouts. Some of the barbells have soft padded grips for extended workout sessions. However, while choosing water weights, steer clear of the barbells that might not be sturdy enough or take too long to dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are water weights?
Weights that are used for pool workouts are known as water weights. These are made of special foam and help in cardiovascular exercises.
Are water weights effective?
Water weights offer additional resistance to tone your muscles effectively. Therefore, it is the best cardio exercise to strengthen the muscle group—moreover, water exercise help in reducing joint pains.
What are water weights used for?
These help build muscle and burn more fat and calories. In addition, adding a water weight to your workout routine also helps tone smaller muscles.
How much do water weights weigh?
Water dumbbell is classified into light, medium, and heavy. A light water dumbbell might weigh about two pounds (907.18 grams) in the water. A medium water dumbbell might weigh about four pounds (1.81 kg). Finally, a heavy water dumbbell weighs about nine pounds (4.08 kg).
Do water weights float?
Yes, water weights float in water as they are made of specialized foam. This phenomenon is known as buoyancy.
What is the difference between water dumbbells and dumbbells?
Water dumbbells are similar to regular dumbbells, but water dumbbells offer more resistance compared to regular dumbbells. When water dumbbells are pushed down to fight against the resistance, the water helps build muscle and tones the muscles.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Aditi Naskar, has a diploma in health and wellness and is a fitness enthusiast. She suggests using the best water dumbbells because this tool can make your swimming classes fun and give a full-body workout. After conducting thorough and in-depth research and reading multiple online reviews, she has picked the best products for her readers. She has checked the quality and other specification of the dumbbells before shortlisting them.
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