Specifications
| Brand | Bowflex |
|---|---|
| Weight Range Per Dumbbell | 10 to 90 lb |
| Weight Increment | 5 lb |
| Number Of Settings | 17 Settings |
| Max Weight Per Dumbbell | 90 lb |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Dial System |
| Handle Material | Steel |
| Storage Stand Included | Yes |
Pros
- High maximum weight
- Wide weight coverage
- Quick, secure adjustments
Cons
- Bulky selector profile
The Verdict
The BowFlex Results 1090 set reaches up to 90 lb per dumbbell, with 5 lb jumps across its dial range. It suits heavy lifting and strength progressions, and the adjustment feels quick and secure, but the selector head is bulky in hand and at the start of presses and rows.
Who it's for: Lifters who want one pair that can cover heavier work, from 10 to 90 lb, and who accept a larger, less ergonomic selector profile for faster weight changes.
Who should skip it: People who need the smallest possible dumbbell head for tight floor space or frequent high-rep superset work, because the bulky selector profile can slow setup and handling.
In-Depth Review
Performance
BowFlex scores 8.3 for Performance, which lands in the “Quick, secure adjustments” range. The key reason is the dial system. You can switch between 17 weight settings that span 10 to 90 lb per dumbbell.
Those settings matter because they keep your programming tight. The system uses 5 lb increments. That is a practical step size for most strength work, especially if you want to progress in small jumps without reworking your whole session.
At the top end, the 90 lb maximum per dumbbell supports heavier pressing and rowing work. It also helps if you do fewer reps and want a real upper limit without turning to different tools.
Build Quality
With a 7.7 build quality score, BowFlex falls into “Mostly durable, slight wobble” territory. The most concrete indicator is the handle material. The handles use metal or steel, not a plastic grip surface.
That matters because the weight range is not small. Each dumbbell goes from 10 lb to a max of 90 lb. A steel handle under that load usually feels more stable than models that lean heavily on lighter materials.
The adjustment mechanism also looks designed for repeated use. The dial system routes you through the full set of 17 settings. In real training, that is where cheap builds tend to show wear. Here, the construction feels built for ongoing dial changes across sessions, rather than a one-time setup.
Ergonomics
BowFlex earns an 8.2 ergonomics score, which maps to “Balanced, hand-friendly feel.” The grip uses a steel handle. That improves control during reps, especially when your hands get sweaty.
However, the comfort story is not only about the handle. The selector profile can affect how the dumbbell sits in your hand and how close the head feels to your wrist. The main trade-off is listed as “Bulky selector profile.” That bulk can change your hand angle on movements like curls and rows, where small wrist positions matter.
For most people, the 5 lb increments make grip and rep consistency easier. You can fine-tune weight without shifting technique. But you still need to get used to the added head width from the selector design.
Footprint
BowFlex scores 8.6 for footprint, which matches “Compact, space-saving storage.” The set includes storage trays. That matters because it keeps the dumbbells grouped instead of scattered across the floor.
Even though the heads have a bulky selector profile, the storage system helps manage the overall workout area. With a total range of 10 to 90 lb per dumbbell and 17 selectable settings, you are replacing multiple pairs of weights with one set. The trays make that swap easier to live with.
The score reflects the practical reality of adjustable dumbbells. A stand does not shrink the dumbbells themselves, but it reduces the clutter that comes from owning more than one pair.
Value
BowFlex gets 7.9 for value, landing in “Durable and reasonably priced” based on the pillar criteria. The math is fairly clear. You get a wide usable range of 10 to 90 lb per dumbbell with 5 lb increments. That range covers a lot of training styles without forcing awkward jumps.
You also get 17 settings, which makes the set easier to match to real progressions. If your strength work needs to move in controlled steps, the 5 lb increments help you do that within one dumbbell pair.
The dial system and included storage trays also support day-to-day usability. The downside is still there. “Bulky selector profile” can make these less pleasant to handle and position in tight angles. That is the main reason value does not score higher, even with the strong 90 lb maximum and steel handle construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weight range and increment on the BowFlex Results 1090 adjustable dumbbells?
Each dumbbell adjusts from 10 lb to 90 lb. You move in 5 lb increments across 17 settings. That makes it easier to match weights for different exercises or progress step by step.
How many total dumbbell settings do the 1090s have, and how fast can I change weight?
They use a dial system with 17 settings per dumbbell. In practice, the dial changes are quick compared with pin-and-plate designs. You still need a moment to dial to the next number and confirm the selector clicks firmly into place.
What locking or adjustment mechanism do the BowFlex 1090 dumbbells use?
They use BowFlex dial system adjustment. You rotate the dial to select a weight and then lock it so the plates stay secured during lifting. If you feel any looseness, stop and reselect the setting before continuing.
Are the handles steel, and will the grip feel comfortable for curls and rows?
The handle is steel. The grip is designed to be secure through presses, curls, and rows, and it should feel balanced in the middle of your hand. If you have very sweaty workouts, keep an eye on how the grip feels and wipe the handles to maintain traction.
Do the bulky selector dials get in the way during exercises or on the floor?
Yes, the selector profile is a known drawback. The dial area can feel bulky when you lie your forearms on a bench or when you set the dumbbells down close together. Plan for a little extra space and test your preferred positions before committing to heavier sets.
Does the package include a storage stand, and will it fit in a small workout area?
Yes, a storage stand is included. The stand helps keep the dumbbells organized when you are not using them, which matters if you have limited floor space. If your gym area is tight, measure the space where you will store the stand and account for extra clearance to pick up the dumbbells safely.
Final Verdict
BowFlex Results 1090s are a strong pick for heavy lifting at home, especially if you want a broad usable range in one set. The standout strength is the quick, secure adjustment system. The main weakness is the bulky selector profile, which can feel awkward when you work fast or wrap your hand around the head. Overall, they earn an 8.1 for serious training.
If you value fast weight changes more than a slim feel, these are a smart match for your routine. If bulky controls bother you, look elsewhere.
