For me it was important that the dumbbells are good in the hand. And they do. Admittedly, I found the surface at the beginning some getting used to. You staying tacky, but just felt odd about. In my opinion but as I said matter of habit.
To the unpleasant odor to some reviewers remarked: I have the beginning perceived, this leaves but gradually smells for me not so extreme that it would have been a reason for return, if the smell would have stopped.
All in all I give a strong buy recommendation for the dumbbells.