The neoprene coating, ESPECIALLY the FREE shipping and the mentality of keeping my arms toned led me to order these weights. After numerous uses, these weights, due to the coating, still look new. Even though one can use these bare handed due to the coating, I use weight lifting gloves and still maintain a nice grip. One cannot determine from the photo unless purchased but under the neoprene coating the actual weights are octagon shaped; this helps in preventing the weights from rolling--nice touch. I would definately recommend these Valeo weights.