13 Best Kettlebells in 2024 (Reviewed by Athletes)

When you hear someone say that kettlebells revolutionized strength training and conditioning – believe them. Whether you want to build strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, or just overall functional movement, kettlebells have you covered. Today, we’ll be going over the 13 best kettlebells you can find.

The reason they’re so popular is not just because they’re so effective. They can also be used by both beginners and professionals, so there’s a vast number of people who can benefit from them.

They’ll give you a full-body workout and target those muscles that traditional weightlifting can neglect.

Our team, consisting of certified personal trainers and professional athletes, has tested 30 kettlebells for this article. From this thorough testing, we’ve selected the top 13 for our list.

We’ve spent a total of 300 hours extensively testing most of these kettlebells and we’ve gone over hundreds of online user reviews. Our list gets updated constantly, so feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section.

Let’s jump right into some kettlebell reviews!

Top 13 Kettlebells Reviewed

1. ROGUE KETTLEBELL – E COAT – Top Pick
2. KG Cast Iron Kettlebells – Runner-Up
3. REP FITNESS ADJUSTABLE KETTLEBELLS – Best Adjustable
4. Titan 20 LB Adjustable Kettlebell – Best Budget Adjustable Kettlebell
5. Rogue Rubber Coated Kettlebells – Best Rubber-Coated
6. KG Competition Kettlebell – Best Competition Kettlebells
7. Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell – Best Quick Changeable
8. Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell – The Cheapest Option on the Market
9. Balancefrom Wide Grip Kettlebell – Best Non-metal (Filled With Cement)
10. 50 LB Warrior Kettlebell – Unusual Design
11. Goruck Sand Kettlebells – Best Sand Kettlebell
12. Yes for All Contoured Adjustable Kettlebells – Best Kettlebell for Small Hands
13. Kettle Gryp Dumbbell Grip Handle – Best Alternative

Product	Total	Weight Range	Versatility	Coating	Handle	Durability	Price/ Quality
RogueE Coat	60	10	10	10	10	10	10
Titan Fitness KG Cast	59	10	10	9.5	10	9.5	10
Rep Fitness	58	9	10	10	10	9.5	9.5
Titan Fitness 20 LB Adjustable	58	9	9.5	9.5	10	10	10
Rogue Rubber Coated	57	9	9	10	9	10	10
Titan Fitness KG Competition	56	10	10	8.5	9	9	9.5
PowerBlock	55	9	10	9	9	9.5	8.5
Amazon	54	8.5	9	8.5	8	10	10
BalanceFrom	53.5	8	8.5	9	9	9	10
Titan Fitness 50 LB Warrior	53	8	8.5	9	9.5	9	9
Goruck	52.5	9	9	9	8	8.5	9
Mural Wall	52	9	8.5	8.5	8.5	8	9.5
Kettle Gryp	51	9	8.5	9	8	8	8.5

These kettlebells were made in collaboration with Cadillac Casting, Inc. – a renowned Midwest foundry with a history that spans over almost a century. They’re the epitome of quality, durability, and performance.

The attention to detail that went into making these cast iron kettlebells is almost unbelievable. They’re made of ductile iron construction, which is a kind of material known for its resistance to corrosion, strength, and durability.

The Rogue E-COAT’s made in the USA and cast by Cadillac Casting, Inc. This sets them apart from your regular gray iron kettlebells because their construction is a lot more robust.

One of the most notable features is the E-Coat finish, which was developed in the automotive industry. It has excellent adhesion, even coverage and is extremely tough.

The best thing about them, though, is not their appearance or durability – it’s the range in available weight that ROGUE offers. Since the weight ranges from 9 lbs. to 88 lbs., these would be good for beginners, recreational users, and professionals… Pretty much, anyone who wants to include kettlebells into their fitness routine.

The 40 lbs. kettlebell meets the required specifications for use in the US Army’s Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), which shows how high-quality these are.

All of the kettlebells come with debossed weight indications and a flat bottom, so there’s no wobbling. Comfort-wise, the handle diameter gives a comfortable grip, regardless of the weight.

There are, however, a few people who reported that they don’t hold the chalk that well and can become slick. This can affect your grip during intense workouts, so keep it in mind.

But all things considered, these are almost impeccable in terms of quality, durability, and performance. They can definitely serve as professional kettlebells, too.

These kettlebells are sure to add variety to anyone’s routine and they’re incredibly well-built. With 10 different weight options, they’ll be a good addition for beginners as well as professionals.

The thing that stands out the most is the durability of these, it’s phenomenal. They’re crafted using a drop cast iron process and each of the kettlebells has a solid, one-piece design that guarantees strength and longevity. They can withstand even the most intense workouts without showing any signs of wear.

They’re designed with user experience in mind, so the wide flat base offers a lot of stability during push-ups and handstands, without any wobbling. The handles are extra wide, so the grip is secure and comfortable on all weights. You can safely focus on your technique without worrying about the kettlebell slipping.

Both kilograms and pounds are debossed on each kettlebell, so you can just glance at it and see the weight.

What may be an issue (although not when you first get them) is the coating. It looks nice, and it feels comfortable, but powder coating is generally prone to chipping. And with the intense workouts, kettlebells usually go through, it can be a concern. Other than that, however, these have no other (potential) flaws.

A lot of gym equipment can be innovative, and innovations are exciting and refreshing. When it comes to things like kettlebells, there’s only so much you can improve and only a few ways to refresh them. Making them adjustable is definitely one of the ways to bring elements of innovation into what is usually a very straightforward piece.

Let’s start with the most important (and the most interesting) thing – adjustability. Usually, you have to buy a few kettlebells to have some versatility, but Rep decided to change that and offer several weight ranges with just one single kettlebell.

When it comes to making the adjustment, it’s as simple as pushing down and giving it a twisting motion. Each REP fitness adjustable kettlebell comes with a set of weight plates that the user can add/remove to achieve the desired weight.

Once the plates are in place, push a button in order to lock them in. You can choose between 3 kettlebells, and each has 5 different weight settings, which is basically like having 5 kettlebells in one. Efficient.

Looking at the picture, you’ve probably noticed that this kettlebell looks slightly different than most others. That’s because its design is ergonomic, so it’s supposed to be more comfortable than the competition (you’ll notice the comfort factor with snatches in particular).

This type of design will make the workouts a lot easier on your wrists and forearms, and if you have some other kettlebells to compare, you’ll appreciate the difference even more. One important thing to note – the design stays consistent regardless of the weight setting.

Performance-wise, all three options are great because of the matte coating. It’s more grippy than a glossy finish usually is, so the grip is not only comfortable but also very secure. And while we’re on the subject of security, let’s briefly mention another thing to pay attention to when it comes to adjustable kettlebells – the weight plates.

The fastening can be an issue sometimes, but with these, it’s extremely secure thanks to the internal nylon thermoplastic weight retainers. They’re very durable, and there’s no shifting during workouts, the plates stay securely in place.

Something you may notice is that the weight adjustment can be tricky if you’re changing it from 16 kg to 18kg. It’s a bit more difficult to adjust than any other weight settings and the plates almost feel like they’re sticky.

But the adjustment is still possible to make, you just need to push a little harder. If your choice is adjustable kettlebells, give one of these a try, you won’t find anything better.

Kettlebells can be pricey, and the previous entry in the list is definitely on the expensive side. This one, though, is anything but expensive. It’s affordable, has a decent weight range, and it’s especially good for beginners.

This kettlebell is a fantastic way to save space and money while adding versatility to your workouts. It’s divided into 6 drop cast iron plates, with each plate weighing 2.5 lbs. The maximum weight can reach up to 20 lbs., which is certainly not ideal for more advanced users, but if you’re a beginner, this is perfectly fine.

The thing that stands out the most is the quick-lock design – this innovative feature makes it super easy to add or remove plates and it also keeps the discs in place during workouts. There’s absolutely no movement or shifting.

The coating is very smooth, and the handle is nice and grippy, so your grip won’t slip even if you sweat profusely. Lifting swinging is comfortable no matter what you do – swings, presses, squats, snatches, or any other dynamic movements.

This kettlebell is the perfect introduction to the world of kettlebells, and not just because of the price. Although the maximum weight isn’t high enough for professionals, there’s a good amount of variety between 5 and 20 lbs. and the quality materials used in its construction will make this kettlebell last a long time.

More and more people are choosing rubber-coated kettlebells simply because of the protection factor – the rubber coating protects the kettlebell from chips and scratches and makes it last longer. If you’re using your kettlebell a lot, a rubber-coated one can be a good choice.

The rubber coating is excellent and the kettlebells themselves are made from first-run iron ore. This is one of the reasons it’s advised to invest in some quality kettlebells. If you get something low-end and cheap, you’ll likely get a kettlebell made from scrap materials, which won’t last as long and isn’t as durable.

Also, notice how these have no plastic caps or plugs on them. That’s because the casting process is one-piece, so the handle strength is far superior to what you’d get on a cheap kettlebell, and there are no gaps in the surface.

If you frequently use chalk, you’ll appreciate the handle quality more than other people would. It is textured and made with chalk use in mind, so chalk adherence is fantastic, and it doesn’t make the handle slick. You’ll be able to safely grip the kettlebell during a lot of different workouts (including the tricky rack position).

There are five weight options, and the handle diameters vary depending on the chosen weight. Heavier kettlebells have some pretty thick handles that can make them a bit less comfortable to hold, especially during complex movements.

This, of course, depends on personal preference as well, so you may not find them to be too thick. Still, it’s good to keep it in mind, especially if you know you don’t like thick handles.

These kettlebells combine form and function and are a great way to up your strength training. If you're one of those people that value precision and attention to detail, you'll be really happy with the quality of this.

It's obvious that Titan put its focus on the construction quality and functionality, rather than just wanting to make as many kettlebells as possible in a short amount of time.

With 13 weight options, they’re very versatile, and not only can you use them for a lot of different workouts, but they’re suitable for all fitness levels. Since quality kettlebells can be a bit on the pricier side, variety is a crucial factor if you want the most bang for your buck (and let’s face it – we all do).

They’re very robust. Also, the one-piece steel construction is a solid foundation for all your workouts. These kettlebells are some of the best quality pieces of equipment and Titan did a great job designing them. You may notice that the coating can be a teensy bit uneven on some of them, but this doesn’t affect the functionality whatsoever.

The base is flat and wide, which makes the kettlebells stable and easy to store. But even with all of these features in mind, what stands out the most is the kettlebell’s adaptability.

Its body is made with very precise machining, so that the shape and dimensions are the same across all weight options. You can easily switch from one workout to the other without any disruptions, and if you do a lot of push-ups, it will allow you to do them without any wobbling.

The quality of all of these is outstanding and if you decide to invest in one of them, it’s sure to be money well spent.

PowerBlock is known for their high-quality, innovative fitness equipment (like the PowerBlock Dumbbells) and has another addition to their product arsenal – the Adjustable Kettlebell.

The reputation can be both a good and a bad thing; reputable brands are fantastic, but the expectations get higher and higher with each new product they put on the market. They have little to worry about these, though, because they’ll likely live up to anyone’s expectations, no matter how high they may be.

The design is space-saving and ergonomic and comes in two adjustable weight options. Changing the weight is simple – place the kettlebell on the floor. Pull the pin out of the kettlebell, and consult the weight selection system that’s written on the side.

Once you know your desired weight, put back the pin into the hole next to the weight you want. That’s it.

When you first look at the price, it can seem a bit much, but when you think about it, these kettlebells are actually very cost-effective. Yes, you’ll invest a bit more than you normally would in a single kettlebell, but that’s just the thing – you’re not getting one single kettlebell.

Instead, you get 4 of them in just one piece, so there’s no need to sacrifice the space for storage, and if you add everything up, one of these is more affordable than getting four non-adjustable kettlebells. That is, if you’re looking for quality ones.

The design is obviously very compact like it usually is with adjustable kettlebells. Their performance is exceptional and they’re surprisingly comfortable. The unusual-looking shell is designed that way for a reason it brings a lot to the table comfort-wise.

It’s hard not to like these and, to be honest, what’s not to like? Sure, the price can seem high at first, but in reality, these are very cost-effective since you’re getting a 4-in-1 deal (regardless of which of the two you go for). Just remember to pick up the weights and re-lock the kettlebell once you’re finished with your training.

Let’s say you’re in the market for your first kettlebell. You have no idea if you’re even going to like it, but you’ve found a few great quality options and are excited to start working out with one of them. The problem is – their price is pretty high. Well, that’s a common problem.

There’s no point in investing in something if you don’t know you’re going to like it. The good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a decent kettlebell. This one is affordable and of decent quality; perfect if you’re just starting out. 

This kettlebell is made from cast iron and comes in 5 weight options. The construction is durable, and it’s obvious it’s made with longevity in mind, so you can expect to have it for quite a while.

The black enamel finish looks nice when you first get it, but it chips easily. If appearance and aesthetics are important to you, this could be an issue. If, however, you’re looking for pure functionality, then this won’t be a problem.

The handle is textured, so you don’t have to worry about slipping, but it’s a bit too wide. This can make it uncomfortable, especially if this is your first kettlebell and you’re just getting used to using it. But if you push through the initial discomfort, you’ll get used to the width and it probably won’t bother you.

Aside from a few minor flaws, this budget kettlebell is a blend of functionality, durability, and good price. You can do swings, squats, presses, and other dynamic movements with it, and thanks to its robustness, it will last you for a long time. And if you want the best kettlebells for beginners – you don’t have to look any further.

When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, buying things in bundles is probably the best option. These come in sets of 3 cement-filled kettlebells and there are 3 weight options within each set, and they are the best kettlebell set for beginners.

The handle is ergonomic, although it can be a bit awkward to hold before you get used to it due to its width. Even though BalanceFrom has pointed the width out as one of the positive features, it can be an issue for beginners.

They’re made of vinyl and filled with cement, so there are absolutely no metals present in these. They’re not as durable as iron-cast kettlebells, but with these, you don’t have to worry about rust. And since they’re made for personal, and not commercial use, there’s little to no chance you’ll use them so often that you’ll damage them.

Due to the relatively small weight range, they’re not as versatile as some of the other kettlebells you can find, but the good thing is that their size changes with the weight. So, you can choose a smaller, lighter kettlebell or a bigger, heavier one, depending on your fitness level and the type of workout you’re about to do.

They may not be the absolute best, and there are other, better options on the market, but these will still give you a very good workout and engage all those muscle groups you’re trying to work. If you’re looking for something heavier than 20 lbs., then you should look elsewhere, but a lot of people will be happy with just these.

The name is spot-on! What else can you call this kettlebell design other than Warrior? Well, the toothy guy from Lord of the Rings comes to mind. Everyone just remembers the creepy teeth, which, to be honest, do bear a slight resemblance to this kettlebell. Anyway...

Because of its ingenuity and uniqueness, the looks are the main selling point for sure, but if you manage to look past that, this is a very functional, robust piece of equipment.

There's no better way to refresh the look of your fitness equipment arsenal than with this unique-looking kettlebell. But it goes beyond the looks. This kettlebell is made from a single piece of drop cast iron and has a non-welded handle.

The entire thing is incredibly sturdy, and the handle provides a comfortable, secure grip. It's wide, but not too wide to the point where it becomes an issue.

The weight indicator is embossed to remind you of the amount of weight you're working it, but with the looks of this, there's probably no chance you'll forget anything about it.

The powder coating seems more high quality than on some of the other kettlebells on this list and doesn't seem štone to chipping, but it's a little gritty. Not like it's going to cause tears and abrasions on your skin, but it's still noticeable.

Some people find iron kettlebells to be a bit too heavy-duty for them, and not as comfortable as they would like them to be. If you're one of them and comfort is a priority, then sand-filled kettlebells would be the best option for you.

Goruck's kettlebell is made from rugged 1000D Cordura material and it's as heavy-duty as a non-iron kettlebell can be. The reality is, that these kinds of kettlebells won't last as long as iron ones, but you still want them to be durable, and Goruck's definitely are.

The 13'' handle is heavy-duty and nicely padded with reinforced neoprene. The grip is mostly comfortable, but if you're working out for a long time and you're using the heaviest kettlebell, the handle will dig into your skin a bit.

Every single seam on this kettlebell has double-pass stitching and a reinforced ballistic bottom. This means that it can basically take pretty much every type of workout, regardless of how intense it may be. The stitches are also very neat and symmetrical, which contributes to quality and durability.

There are 6 different sizes available, and each kettlebell allows you to customize the workout intensity by adding or removing sand, which is a great feature to have. And if you're worried about the mess you might make with this, you don't have to be.

The inside has a funnel filler system and a double hook-and-loop closure, so no sand will leak.

This cute-looking kettlebell may not look like serious exercise equipment, but it sure is. It doesn't compare to the other robust, heavy-duty iron kettlebells, but it still gives a solid workout. If your hands are on the smaller side, you'll be pleased with this product.

If we set aside the Warrior kettlebell, this is probably one of the most unique-looking ones you’ll find. The bright color and the smaller handle make it stand out from the kettlebell crowd.

There’s not a chance that the sight of this won’t brighten up your mood at least a little. Or at least catch your gaze. This is also the best kettlebell for women due to its handle size.

Construction-wise, it’s not the most ideal because it’s made mostly of plastic. Sure, it’s heavy-duty plastic and it also has some cement (to generate the required weight), but it’s still not even close to some of the other kettlebells on this list. But if you look past the plastic construction, you’ll see this has some pretty neat things to offer.

First of all, it’s adjustable. There are 4 increments, and you can adjust the weight to be 5 lbs., 8 lbs., 9 lbs., and 12 lbs. This eliminates your need to have a few different kettlebells because you have four of them in one compact kettlebell.

Another great thing is the ergonomic design – the grip is very comfortable, even with just one hand. It fits great in the palm of your hand, much better than traditional U-shaped handles.

It has a neoprene coating and, since there’s no iron, it’s resistant to rust and corrosion.

This kettlebell has a lot more to offer than a splash of color so there’s no doubt it’s going to catch a lot of attention, and its place on the list of best kettlebells is well-deserved.

Kettle Gryp has a very interesting story, and it started out as an idea between two long-time friends, Dan and Andy, who wanted the benefits of kettlebell workouts, but didn't want to buy a whole new set of weights.

So, they came up with something completely new. Dan thought of a way to adapt a kettlebell-style handle to dumbbells, and Andy created the patented design you see in the picture.

This is one of the simplest things you’ll ever use and the idea behind it is spectacular. It eliminates the need to spend money on new weights because you just need a handle, and you can use your dumbbells with it as a kettlebell. It’s functional, and practical for sure. And in theory, it sounds fantastic. But in practice, not so much.

It's made from ABS plastic that’s supposedly durable, but the plastic on this handle feels a bit flimsy and hollow. The good thing about it is that it’s grippy enough and won’t slip out of your hands even if you sweat. Another good thing is that it fits comfortably in both men’s and women’s hands because it’s not crazy wide and thick.

Other than plastic, there’s some urethane foam and stainless steel to make it sturdier and more durable, but most of it is plastic, so once that’s damaged, there’s no going back.

The maximum amount of weight the handle can take is 55 lbs., which is going to suit most people. It’s also a very economical solution for anyone looking to add kettlebells to their workouts but doesn’t want to spend a lot of money. It’s also space-friendly and fits just about anywhere.

Overall, this is a very good idea that can use some improvements, but it’s still functional enough to be a decent alternative to traditional kettlebells. Just don’t forget that if you want the Kettle Gryp to simulate a kettlebell, then you’ll need to own some dumbbells as well.

What Is a Kettlebell?

Kettlebell is not just a weight; it's a dynamic tool that offers a unique mix of resistance training, core engagement, and full-body conditioning, making it a favored choice among a lot of athletes."

It looks like a cast-iron cannonball with a flat base and a top handle. The handle allows you to grip it in a lot of different ways, which is why you can use it for lifting and swinging movements. This also means you're engaging multiple muscle groups at the same time.

Kettlebells come in a variety of weights, typically from a few pounds to over 100 pounds, and it makes them suitable for people of all fitness levels.

It's a very accessible, compact piece of equipment and can be used almost anywhere – gyms, homes, parks, even hotel rooms.

Types of Kettlebells

Kettlebells come in a lot of shapes and sizes, which is what makes them so versatile. They're made to work for a lot of different people and a vast number of workouts. It's important toAlso known as traditional kettlebells, these have a very solid construction and a handle on top. There are a lot of weight ranges with these types of kettlebells, and they're good for both beginners and professionals. choose the right type of kettlebell – one that's going to work for your fitness level and the exercise you're trying to do.

1. Kettlebells by Type

• Cast Iron

Kettlebells come in a lot of shapes and sizes, which is what makes them so versatile. They're made to work for a lot of different people and a vast number of workouts. It's important to choose the right type of kettlebell – one that's going to work for your fitness level and the exercise you're trying to do.

• Competition

These have to adhere to strict weight and dimension standards because the movements need to be consistent for competitions. Their size is typically uniform (whatever the weight may be).

• Adjustable

They're a very cost-effective and space-saving solution. With adjustable kettlebells, you can easily change the weight by adding or removing plates. Their versatility is what makes them so popular.

• Soft-Sand Filled

Instead of being made from cast iron (as the typical kettlebell), these are generally bags made from high-quality reinforced material and are filled with sand. This makes them softer than the average kettlebell and they are completely safe to be dropped onto the group, without the risk of damaging the floor (or the kettlebell).

• Specialty

You'll immediately recognize specialty kettlebells because they look unique and stand out from the crowd with their unique shape or design. They can look like animals or objects that have nothing to do with fitness or kettlebells. They're fun and are a splash of creativity. One example you have on our top kettlebell list is KETTLE GRYP.

2. Kettlebells by Coating

• Vinyl-Coated

Iron is prone to rusting and corrosion, so to prevent that from happening, some kettlebells have a protective layer of vinyl material. It also makes the surface a lot more smooth than it would usually be without vinyl coating.

• Rubber-Coated

The rubber coating protects both the kettlebell and the floor and you'll usually see them in commercial gyms or anywhere with high traffic, where kettlebells are used very frequently.

• Neoprene-Covered

Some of the grippiest kettlebells come with a neoprene coating that makes the grip very comfortable and prevents slipping and accidents caused by slips. They're mostly used for fitness classes and home workouts.

• Powder-Coated

Powder-coated kettlebells have a very sleek, matte finish that's slightly textured. Compared to vinyl coating, this is grippier and doesn't scratch as easily.

9 Kettlebell Benefits

Kettlebells can look (and feel) intimidating, especially when it comes to those that are very heavy. That's completely understandable, though, because the workouts they provide are usually pretty challenging. They do, however, come with a lot of benefits, particularly ones regarding health and weight management.

✅ Versatile Training Options

Kettlebell workouts are a great way to engage multiple muscle groups at the same time (e.g., swings) and will provide full-body workouts. They are also an amazing way to do isolated exercises where you target specific muscles (e.g., shoulder press, leg squats).

✅ Cardiovascular Fitness

A lot of workouts with kettlebells have very dynamic movements that elevate your heart rate. This boosts cardiovascular fitness and helps with fat loss. Not only that – kettlebell exercises/workouts are very efficient when it comes to burning calories, and they will help you to lose weight.

✅ Better Bone Density

All weight-bearing exercises are good for bone density and joint health, and those involving kettlebells are no exception. They can help with preventing osteoporosis but are also used as a part of treatment.

✅ Compact/Space Saving

Kettlebells are typically on the smaller side when it comes to gym equipment. Due to their compact size, they are easy to store (especially if they are designed with a completely flat bottom – which most kettlebells are).

✅ Built to Last

Lots of kettlebells are made from cast iron, and are nigh indestructible. So unless you misplace them, or get rid of them – you can consider them a lifetime purchase.

✅ Home Workout-Friendly

If you’re building a home gym and you have to choose only one piece of gym equipment, you won’t go wrong by choosing a kettlebell. Its versatility and compactness make the kettlebell an ideal piece of gear for any home gym setup.

✅ Increased Flexibility/Mobility

The typical swinging or lifting kettlebell exercises usually require a full range of motion. This helps improve flexibility over time. A single exercise or movement such as the ‘Turkish get-up’ or the ‘Kettlebell swing’ can be used to enhance the mobility in your shoulders, hips, and ankles.

✅ Improved Coordination and Balance

Kettlebell workouts often involve complex movements. These typically require simultaneous coordination of multiple muscle groups, as well as focus. Because of this, kettlebell workouts do affect one’s balance and hand-eye coordination in a positive manner. This is beneficial in fitness/sports, but also in everyday life.

✅ Cost-Effective Investment

One single kettlebell can be the jack of all (or at least most) trades in your gym, thus replacing a variety of other workout equipment that you’d otherwise require (especially if you’re building a home gym).

Our expert Sergii Putsov claims:

"Kettlebells? Absolute game changers! Every gym should have them. Their unique, off-center designs aren't just about lifting: it’s more of a full-on challenge to both stabilizers and powerhouse muscles. I use kettlebells in my personalized training programs all the time for swings, snatches, cleans, and even the challenging Turkish get-ups — that’ll help you improve your performance, refine your posture, and develop core strength."

What to Look For in the Best Kettlebells?

If you’re looking to buy a kettlebell and you check the market, you might find yourself overwhelmed with all the choices available. We will leave you with a number of tips on how you can more easily narrow down to a kettlebell that will suit your needs more closely!

1. Weight Range

If you don’t want to invest in a set of kettlebells, get an adjustable one. You will likely need a somewhat wide weight range so you can use the kettlebell for more than one type of workout. Also, as you progress, you’ll find that you need a bigger weight. You can buy another kettlebell, sure, but with adjustable kettlebells, all you need to do is add an extra plate to it.

2. Versatility

The basic design of most kettlebells allows you to perform a variety of exercises. Still, not all kettlebells are created equal. When it comes to versatility in kettlebells, you are looking for handle design, grip quality, the material used, and weight adjustability (if available).

3. Coating

Kettlebells have a lot of different types of coating, so make sure you know exactly what you want. The coating affects grip, and durability and protects against rust and corrosion. Some of the options include rubber, vinyl, powder, and neoprene.

4. Handle

This is very important for a safe and comfortable grip. A handle can make or break a kettlebell, and it can also mean the difference between getting injured or not. A good handle should have enough space to be held with one or two hands, and it needs to have a textured, non-slip grip.

5. Durability

Cast iron or steel are your best bet when it comes to durability. You can find some durable kettlebells made of plastic, too, but they still won’t be as durable as those made of cast iron or steel.

6. Price/Quality

It’s all about the balance. High-quality kettlebells can have a hefty price tag but look at it as an investment – it will last you a long time.

Adjustable Kettlebells vs. Standard

Before you decide what type of kettlebell you want, you first need to see if you want it to be adjustable or not. You might be tempted to go for the adjustable one because it’s (usually) more cost-effective, but there’s a reason both of these are on the market.

The biggest pro an adjustable kettlebell has is the most obvious one – it is an economical way to have several weight options. It also saves space, and it’s very versatile. Changing the weight is simple – just add/remove a plate, and that’s it. The transition is smooth and seamless, and you won’t feel like it’s interrupting your workout.

They’re great for anyone who wants to progress gradually, as their skills improve, or make changes in the intensity of their workouts.

Unlike adjustable kettlebells, standard ones have a fixed weight. They’ll give you a consistent weight and feel distribution. They’re sturdier than adjustable kettlebells because they’re made as a single, solid piece, and this makes them better for long use compared to the adjustable ones.

They’re usually used by people who have well-defined fitness routines and don’t have the need to switch between different weights.

Criteria	Adjustable Kettlebells	Standard Kettlebells
Weight Flexibility	Adjustable	Fixed
Cost-effectiveness	Usually more cost-effective since you get multiple weights in one	Requires multiple purchases to get different weights thereby reducing its cost-effectiveness
Space Efficiency	Saves space (one kettlebell, multiple weights)	Requires more space for multiple weights
Weight Transition	Smooth and seamless (add/remove plates)	Not applicable (fixed weight)
Durability	Usually less durable because of the complex design	Sturdier because it is a single, solid piece
Comfortness of Use	Can be less comfortable due to complex designs	Usually more comfortable (and familiar) for users
Weight Limitationsn	Limited to a predetermined range of weights	Limited only by the min and max weights that have been produced

Competition vs. Standard Kettlebells

If you’ve gone through the reviews, then you saw some competition kettlebells included in the list. Competition kettlebells have to meet some very strict standards when it comes to weight and dimensions, so they’re great for competitions but also for any training that needs consistent movements.

Competition kettlebells will come in very handy if you’re trying to perfect your technique because, regardless of the weight, their dimensions are uniform. The resistance they offer is predictable and precise, and the handle size and shape are designed for minimal friction and optimal grip. This makes transitions between exercises seamless.

On the other hand, standard kettlebells are good for all sorts of workouts and are a lot more versatile. You can adjust the weight based on what you feel most comfortable with, and they are usually cheaper than their competition counterparts.

Criteria	Competition Kettlebells	Standard Kettlebells
Weight Flexibility	Fixed	Fixed
Dimensions	Uniform regardless of weight	Varies based on weight
Resistance	Predictable and precise	Variable
Handle Design	Minimal friction/optimal grip	Standard design
Price	Usually more expensive than standard kettlebells	Usually more affordable than competition kettlebells

Kettlebell vs. Dumbbell vs. Barbell

It only makes sense to see how these differ from one another and how they compare. Each of them is very popular when it comes to strength training and is a great way to build muscle mass and fitness.

Kettlebells are known for their shape – a top handle with a rounded weight and a flat bottom. They can be used for a lot of different workouts, and they’re ideal for functional training. Kettlebells will engage a lot of muscle groups at the same time.

Much like the kettlebells, dumbbells also have very recognizable looks. They consist of a grip handle and two weights (both weighing the same) on each end. They’re versatile, too, but they’re better for body toning, bodybuilding, and rehabilitation. They’re good for isolated muscle targeting.

Barbells are long bars with a weight plate attached to each end. They’re probably the most popular tools for strength training and will involve more muscle groups than dumbbells.

They’re an absolute cornerstone of powerlifting and all workouts that focus on building strength. You can add substantial weights to barbells, and they target large muscle groups.

Each of these tools excels at something different, so if you want a well-rounded fitness routine, don't exclude either of them. The choice, of course, comes down to your preference and what results you're trying to achieve, but kettlebells, dumbbells, and barbells all have their place in a good fitness routine.

Criteria	Kettlebells	Dumbbells	Barbells
Appearance	Top handle, rounded weight, flat bottom	Typically knurled grip (not always) handle with equal weights on both ends	Long bar with attachable weight plates on each end
Primary Use	Functional training (versatile for various workouts) or kettlebell specific workouts	Body toning, isolated bodybuilding, rehabilitation, isolated work of specific muscle group	Strength training (cornerstone of powerlifting and strength building)
Weight Adjustability	Typically fixed weight	Typically fixed weight	Adjustable with different weight plates
Size	Compact (varies based on weight)	Compact (length varies based on weight)	Longest out of the three (length varies based on bar type and plates used)
Weight Range	Typically 5-100 lbs	Typically 3-50 lbs	Typically 15/25/45 lbs barbell + weight plates
Versatility	Highly versatile (dynamic movements, swinging, ballistic exercises, functional training)	Moderately versatile (great range of motion, isolation exercises, unilateral exercises, etc.)	Least amount of versatility (heavy compound lifting, not as effective for targeting smaller muscle groups)

How to Use Kettlebells: Recommendations and Precautions

Using a kettlebell (as with any heavy piece of equipment) needs to be handled safely and effectively. It goes way beyond simply picking a kettlebell up and swinging. There are a number of factors that need to be considered long before the exercise has started.

Naturally, this thought process will be more ‘on the spot’ as you get more experienced, but it never goes away. Here’s a list of things that you should keep in mind when using a kettlebell.

1. Choose the Right Weight

There are a lot of tips, tricks, and safety measures to pay attention to, but choosing the correct weight is the absolute most important thing you need to do. Choose the weight according to your fitness level, or you can even go under it a little bit if this is your first kettlebell. Get used to how it feels and see what workouts are the most comfortable before you up the weight.

2. Warm-Up

Warming up is important, so don’t start your workout without it. Warming up will increase blood flow, flexibility, and range of motion. Dynamic stretches and light cardio are always a good start.

3. Maintain the Proper Form

Your posture needs to be strong, and your spine needs to be neutral. Engage the core and keep your shoulders back and down. This will prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

4. Hold the Handle

When handling a kettlebell (especially if going heavy) a firm grip is crucial. For two-handed exercises, your palms should be facing one another. For one-arm exercises, your grip will vary from exercise to exercise, but ensure the grip is solid. This way you’ll have more control throughout the movement (as well as safety).

5. Mastering the Basics

Start with some basic swings, squats, and presses, and once you’re good at those, you can move on to something more advanced.

6. Hip Hinge

You’ll notice that a lot of kettlebell movements include a hip hinge. You need to bend at the hips, not the waist, and keep your back straight. Push the hips back and bend the knees a bit to engage your hips and glutes.

7. Don’t Overextend

Avoid overextending your lower back during workouts like overhead presses or Turkish get-ups. Keep your core engaged and control the movement with proper alignment.

5 Most Popular Kettlebell Exercises

Since kettlebells are so versatile, there’s a huge number of workouts you can include them in, and even the most basic ones are very effective.

1. Swings

Take swings, for example. It’s the foundation of kettlebell workouts, and it’s simple to do. For kettlebell swings, start with a hip hinge motion and then swing the kettlebell between the legs. Use hip thrust to bring it to your chest. That’s it. It’s as basic as can be, but still effective.

2. Goblet Squat

If you’re looking for something a little less interesting, you can try the goblet squat. You hold the kettlebell close to your chest with both hands and then do some squats. For this one, your posture needs to be upright while you lower yourself into a squat. 

3. Turkish Get-Ups

Turkish get-ups are another of the most popular workouts that you can do with a kettlebell. Here’s how you’d do one with your right hand.

Lie on the ground in a crouching position (on your right side). Then take the kettlebell and hold it above you with your right hand. After that, with your left (the free hand), support yourself on the ground, start raising your hips, and do a low sweep with the left leg, so that it is behind you.

Further, support yourself with your left knee (so left knee + left hand). Then release the support from your left-hand intro into a straight kneeling position. Proceed to stand up straight. At all times ensure that the right hand (the one holding the kettlebell) is holding the kettlebell above the level of your head.

4. Kettlebell Clean and Press

The kettlebell clean and press is also something you will most likely want to try. It’s simple to do – lift the kettlebell to shoulder height and then press it overhead. Make sure the lifting motion is fluid for this one.

5. Deadlift + Snatches

Who can forget the deadlift and snatches? The kettlebell deadlift is much like your regular deadlift; just pick the kettlebell up from the ground using a hip hinge movement. For snatches, swing it from between your legs to overhead3 sets x 15 reps in a single motion.

Exercise	Sets x Reps	Description
Kettlebell Swing	3 sets x 15 reps	Do a hip hinge and swing the kettlebell
Goblet Squat	3 sets x 12 reps	Squat while holding the kettlebell close to your chest
Turkish Get-Up	2 sets x 6 reps	Transition from lying down to standing up with the kettlebell over your head
Clean and Press	3 sets x 10 reps	Lift the kettlebell from the ground and press it overhead
Row	3 sets x 12 repss	Bend at the knees and lift the kettlebell towards the hip
Russian Twist	3 sets x 20 reps	Rotate your torso while holding the kettlebell

FAQ

What Is the Best Kettlebell Weight for Beginners?

Anywhere from 18 to 26 lbs. is a good start. This way, you’ll learn the proper form and technique and also slowly build your strength without the risk of injuring yourself.

Are Kettlebells Good for Home Gyms?

They’d be an excellent addition to any home gym – they’re versatile, will give you a full-body workout, and they don’t need a lot of space.

Why Are Kettlebells So Expensive?

They’re pricey because of the material quality and the manufacturing process. A lot of kettlebells are made with high-quality iron and coating. Not to mention, the process of making them is very precise. All these factors combined end up costing quite a bit (especially if you’re buying your equipment from some of the best kettlebell brands), which is why kettlebell prices can be high. 

Is It Ok to Use Kettlebells Every Day?

That would be far from ideal. You shouldn’t skip rest days because your muscles need time to recover from the workouts, so you shouldn’t use kettlebells daily.

Can You Get Big With Just Kettlebells?

Yes. Kettlebells are very effective for strength and muscle growth. But if you focus only on them, you won’t see results as fast as you would with traditional and diverse training methods.

Conclusion

If you’ve managed to read all the way through, then you’re a real champ! Reading this much is a workout in itself. To conclude this (very long) article, let’s recap.

The ROGUE KETTLEBELL - E COAT is an absolute winner, and out of all the kettlebells out there, these are the best you can buy. But if those are not quite what you want, there are a lot of other options on the list, some of which look extremely interesting.

I’d love to hear from you! Do you use kettlebells, and what made you want to try them? What results have you seen from them? How have you incorporated them into your fitness routine? What are the best kettlebells for the home gym in your opinion?

Leave your comments below, and let’s discuss!

Also read:

• Best Rubber Coated Kettlebells
• Best Competition Kettlebells
• What Size Kettlebell Should I Get
• Best Cheap Kettlebells
• Kettlebell Benefits
• Best Adjustable Kettlebells
• What Do Kettlebell Swings Work
• Kettlebell Core Workout
• Basic Kettlebell Workout

References:

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7. J. Exerc Rehabil. , “The effect of warm-ups with stretching on the isokinetic moments of collegiate men”; National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5833972/ (accessed 23 August, 2023).
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