Mar. 03, 2026
When it comes to blending strength and conditioning, kettlebells are some of the most versatile home gym essentials around. The tricky part about buying the best kettlebell, though, is that many of them look and feel the same. However, there are key differences—be it price, coating, durability, weight increments, or even the handle width—that can impact your workout experience.
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Our team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive athletes uses kettlebells on a regular basis, and we’ve personally put our hands on just about every type of ‘bell there is—from the most basic all the way to fully adjustable models. We use our kettlebell testing methodology to evaluate kettlebells using a 1-5 scoring system, assessing key factors like:
In addition to our research and proprietary testing, we consulted with GGR Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and exercise physiologist Dr. Chris Mohr, RD, to discuss how kettlebell training can be an integral part of your overall exercise routine. To ensure medical accuracy, we also contacted Dr. Bilal Ahsan, a resident physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specializing in musculoskeletal, neurological, and sports-related conditions.
We helped nearly 1,400 athletes find the right kettlebells for their training needs in , and we’re confident our picks below will help you, too.
Updated by: Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CF-L1, CNC, CSNC
Excellent Optionality and Build Quality GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.6 REP Fitness Kettlebell Set Free shipping available 30-day, money-back guarantee Available in single- & dual-weight sets Free shipping on every order See Details 5-in-1 Bundle You receive five kettlebells per set between 8 and 24 kilograms, with dual-weight options available. Gravity Die-Cast A gravity die-cast iron construction helps improve durability and weight precision for a clean, high-quality bell. Free Shipping No need to worry about costly shipping fees—REP Fitness offers free shipping with this kettlebell set. Dual Weight Marks In addition to color-coded bands, REP includes imperial and metric weight totals on each kettlebell. Pros Bundled weight set for more convenient purchasing Gravity die-cast iron for improved durability and performance Flat base helps improve storage efficiency Free shipping available Cons Just five weights per bundle Max weight of 53 pounds Some may prefer a more textured powdercoat Material Gravity die-cast iron, textured black powdercoat Handle Diameter 32-39 mm (depending on weight total) Weight Range 8-24 kg (18-53 lbs) Weight Markings Kilograms and poundsThe REP Fitness Kettlebell Set can be a convenient way to purchase multiple kettlebell weights in one fell swoop. You receive five varying weights in one bundle, and REP also offers dual-weight packages that can create paired bells for specific exercises like presses, carries, and more.
The REP Fitness Kettlebell Set can be ideal for full-body kettlebell workouts since it includes a solid weight range of 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) to 24 kilograms (52.9 pounds). Made from cast iron with a shiny, textured finish, each kettlebell has a color-coded handle for easy weight identification. With REP’s attention to detail and excellent engineering, this set earns a rock-solid 4-out-of-5 rating for value. Overall, the high-quality construction helps REP earn the nod as our consensus top pick.
Durability: 5/5
Weight Options: 3/5
Construction: 5/5
REP has earned a reputation for producing high-quality fitness equipment, and this kettlebell set is no different. As someone who’s used both budget-friendly and high-end models, I appreciate the gravity die-cast design, which helps produce a durable, precise kettlebell with a perfectly flat base. “The base really helps when trying to keep your home gym organized,” adds Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC.
Each bell is labeled with both kilogram and pound weight increments, meaning you don’t have to worry about trying to do any complicated conversions in the middle of your training session. Overall, I give this set dual 5-out-of-5 scores for construction and durability.
In addition, REP deserves a tip of the cap for providing free shipping. This is a big cost savings, especially when you’re buying an entire set of kettlebells. Combined with the fact that you can choose between a single or double set (offering dual weights of the same total for two-kettlebell movements), REP gets a 5-out-of-5 rating for purchasing and shipping.
Our main callout with the REP Fitness Kettlebell Set is the somewhat limited weight range. The heaviest kettlebell is 24 kilograms (roughly 53 pounds). This may suffice for beginners and intermediate trainees, but more advanced users will likely need to invest in a few more heavier bells for exercises like goblet squats or even swings. As a result, we rate the weight options for this specific set at 3 out of 5.
Ben does note, though, that higher weights can be purchased independently, albeit with a little more time spent finalizing your online cart. “Think of this set as a great starting point,” he says. “Then if you need lighter or heavier profiles, just add them as à la carte items prior to checkout.”
Additionally, while we rate the durability with a perfect score, some customer reviews point out that the powder coating can begin to chip over time. This can be subjective depending on how much wear and tear you put these ‘bells through, but it is worth mentioning that these weights aren’t entirely impervious to deterioration.
If you need to go heavier, consider adding several GIANT Lifting V3 Kettlebells to your set.
Here’s how the REP Fitness Kettlebell Set fared based on our fitness equipment testing methodology.
You get a less expansive weight range with the REP Fitness Kettlebell Set. The median handle diameter falls right around the average.
Updated by: Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CF-L1, CNC, CSNC
Built to Last GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.35 Rogue E-Coat Kettlebells Free shipping available 30-day, money-back guarantee Available in single- & dual-weight sets Free shipping on select products See Details E-Coat Finish Electrocoating provides a durable, chip-resistant layer with smooth texture Cast-In-One-Piece Prevents seams or weak points for better balance and strength Flat Machined Base Ensures stability for push-ups, rows, and floor work Consistent Weight Tight manufacturing tolerances for uniform feel across weights Pros Durable e-coat resists chips and corrosion Excellent balance and feel during swings and cleans Smooth handle for comfortable grip, even barehanded Made in the USA with consistent quality control Cons Slightly slick when sweaty without chalk Pricier than budget cast-iron kettlebells Limited color differentiation between weights Heavier coating can affect tactile feedback for some users Material Single-piece ductile cast iron Finish Electrocoated (E-Coat) for corrosion resistance Weight Range 9 lbs to 88 lbs Handle Diameter 1.2″ (for lighter weights) to 1.5″ (for heavier models)The Rogue E-Coat Kettlebells combine traditional cast-iron strength with a modern, durable finish that resists corrosion and chipping. Ideal for both home and commercial gyms, these kettlebells deliver consistent balance, long-lasting performance, and premium feel—making them a top choice for serious strength athletes and home gym enthusiasts alike.
Earning an impressive overall score of 4.35 out of 5, the Rogue E-Coat series has everything we look for in the best kettlebells. Featuring a cast iron core and durable e-coat finish, you shouldn’t have to worry about damaging them with repeated drops. Well-built and priced fairly, we’re confident the E-Coat kettlebells can quickly become staples in your home gym. One of the best parts? They’re available in a variety of set configurations to suit the needs of different athletes, making them our pick for the best kettlebell set.
Construction: 5/5
Handle: 4/5
Value: 4/5
After using many Rogue kettlebells over the years, GGR founder Coop Mitchell puts it bluntly, “By far, the E-Coat line is my favorite.”
GGR product tester Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC also got a chance to test these, and he says he can see why Coop is such a big fan. E-coats are highly durable and resistant to chipping, scratching, and rusting. They also make for a stronger grip on the kettlebell. The Rogue E-Coat Kettlebell is also made from ductile cast iron, which offers more durability and resistance to corrosion than standard cast iron or steel. As such, durability shouldn’t be a concern with these ‘bells, and we give them a 5-out-of-5 rating in this all-important category.
There are 12 available weight increments in the E-Coat line ranging from 9 to 88 pounds. This can give you plenty of flexibility for progressive overload since you can purchase heavier kettlebells as you get stronger. We rate the weight options at a perfect 5 out of 5, especially since you can also purchase these kettlebells in various sets, including a 26-35-70-pound set for $226 or a 10-piece set ranging from 9 to 70 pounds for $625.
While I had no complaints about the diameter or shape of the handle, I docked a point off the score (4 out of 5) because the e-coat finish can make it a bit more challenging to maintain control of the kettlebell when your hands get sweaty. This might not be a concern if you’re just using a kettlebell for a few exercises, but it could be problematic if you’re into high-intensity interval training (HIIT) where you can break a serious sweat.
In addition, Coop points out that because these are not competition kettlebells, there may be some very slight discrepancies in weight. That’s typical of most non-competition kettlebells, however, so don’t necessarily take this as a shot at Rogue.
If you don’t want the e-coat finish, you might want to choose the Titan Competition Style Kettlebells instead. These kettlebells have a smooth coating profile as well as the universal sizing of competition-grade bells.
Here’s how the Rogue E-Coat Kettlebells scored based on our fitness equipment testing methodology.
The Rogue E-Coat Kettlebells are generally more affordable than the average kettlebell. They also offer a higher weight range.
Check out our full Rogue E-Coat Kettlebell review for more information.
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Competition-Standard Design, Great Value GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.4 Titan Competition Style Kettlebells Free shipping on all orders Flexible payment options 1-year warranty Save up to 65% sitewide See Details Dimensions 8.3″ in diameter, 11.4″ tall Weight Range 8-32 kg (18-70.5 lbs) Handle Diameter 35 mm Construction hollow core steel Pros of the Titan Fitness Competition Style Kettlebell Priced well Non-welded handles 13 options between 8 and 32 kg Steel cast with powder coat finish Cons of the Titan Fitness Competition Style Kettlebell Weight only listed in kilos Heaviest weight is 32 kg Reports of paint chipping Dimensions 8.3″ in diameter, 11.4″ tall Materials Steel cast with powder coat finish Options 13 different sizes (8-32 kg)Titan Fitness Competition Style Kettlebells are designed with the same dimensions so you can focus on your form as your progress. Sold individually, they have color-coded handles that make it easy to identify the weight. They’re a solid option, but be aware that some customers have reported issues with the paint chipping.
Titan Competition Style Kettlebells can deliver pro-level performance at a more affordable price than high-end options. Each bell meets international standards for size, shape, and handle diameter, allowing for seamless transitions between at-home training and the competition floor. The consistent design also enables smooth transitions between weight totals without disrupting your technique. We also appreciate that these are color-coded and laser-engraved for easy weight identification, leading to a strong construction score of 4.5 out of 5.
Construction: 4.5/5
Handle: 5/5
Weight Options: 3/5
Because this is a competition kettlebell, the weights are highly accurate and the handles are a standard 35 millimeters on every bell. “It’s nice to have this standardized handle across the range,” notes Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC. “It helps you maintain consistent form regardless of your working weight.”
We also really like that each bell comes in its own color, which can be a nice alternative to your typical black, iron-cast kettlebell. Between the build quality and affordable pricing, we rate the value at 5 out of 5.
Meanwhile, budget-conscious buyers will also appreciate that Titan offers free shipping on all orders, which is a huge cost efficiency that many other brands do not offer. That earns a perfect 5-out-of-5 rating for purchasing and shipping (and a big tip of the cap for customer service). So, if you want to stock up on several competition-style bells, you can do so without having to worry about escalating shipping costs.
As a budget option, Titan Competition Kettlebells do have some issues, namely with the paint. Several reviewers have reported flaking or chipping, and Ben can attest. “While it’s more of a cosmetic flaw than a structural compromise,” he states, “These kettlebells can quickly look worn-in given the thinner paint that chips easily.” While this doesn’t typically affect the performance of the product, it can affect aesthetics. We docked some points off the durability score, resulting in a 3.5-out-of-5 rating.
Also, most competition bells like this one don’t come in heavy weights because people don’t really use higher totals in competition. Even though we only give this a 3 out of 5 for weight options, we still think it delivers good value for the price.
If you prefer to use an adjustable kettlebell over multiple kettlebells, the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells are some of our favorite on the market.
The Titan Competition Style Kettlebells scored at least a 4 out of 5 in all but two categories. Here’s a complete breakdown of our ratings:
The Titan Competition Style Kettlebells have essentially the same handle diameter and weight range as the average kettlebell.
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Quick Adjustments With a Traditional Feel GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.7 REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells Free shipping Payment plans available Lifetime warranty Free shipping on every order See Details Weight Range 8-16 kg, 16-24 kg, or 20-40 lbs Handle Diameter 34.6-35 mm, depending on the size Shape Competition-style shape Adjustable Push-and-twist adjustment mechanism Pros of REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells Feels like a regular kettlebell Weights are quick and easy to change Weight adjusts to 24 kg Rubber bottom helps protect flooring Offered in kilograms and pounds Cons of REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells Plastic changing mechanism could break Would prefer a broader weight range in one kettlebell Handle Diameter 34.6-35 mm, depending on the size Materials Cast-iron with matte black finish Weight Options 5 per kettlebell Weight Ranges 8-16 kg, 16-24 kg, or 20-40 lbsIf you close your eyes (although we don’t advise it because kettlebells are heavy) when using the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells, you will think that you are using a regular kettlebell. The adjustment mechanism works quickly and efficiently, allowing you to make seamless transitions during your workouts.
The best adjustable kettlebells allow you to save money and space. If you’re looking to preserve real estate and keep some extra money in your pocket, I recommend investing in a REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell. Earning an impressive overall score of 4.7 out of 5, this is a high-quality option that can give you the flexibility to train light, heavy, or anywhere in between.
Construction: 4.5/5
Adjustment Speed: 5/5
Weight Options: 4/5
GGR founder Cooper Mitchell has used these REP adjustable kettlebells for a variety of exercises, including swings, farmer’s carries, Turkish get-ups, and goblet squats. He’s been impressed by the overall build quality and ease of use, rating the construction at a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5.
Depending on your experience level, you can choose between an 8- to 16-kilogram option, a 16- to 24-kilogram option, or a 20- to 40-pound option. While we’d like to see a broader weight range within one kettlebell, we still rate it at 4 out of 5 for weight options. Most importantly, you can make quick weight changes mid-workout. Coop rated it at 5 out of 5, noting, “All you have to do is use a push-and-twist dial on top to easily find the exact weight you need.”
During testing, Coop found that the weight plates inside rattled a little, which can be unnerving. However, none of the plates fell out or came loose. Overall, this is a well-built adjustable kettlebell that should work for most users. My only caveat here is that advanced users may not get enough of a challenge from a bell that “only” goes up to 53 pounds.
If you need an adjustable kettlebell with a higher weight capacity, consider the Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Kettlebell Handle, which supports up to 80 pounds.
The REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells scored at least a 4 out of 5 in every category. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells feature roughly the same weight range as your average adjustable kettlebell, and the slightly thicker handle can help improve control during certain movements.
For more details, check out our REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell review.
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
User-Friendly and Ultra-Versatile GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.62 GIANT Lifting V3 Kettlebells Free shipping HSA/FSA eligible 1-year warranty Up to 35% off | Use GGR for add’l 5% off See Details Material Powder-coated iron Weight Range 4 kg/9 lbs – 48 kg/106 lbs Handle Diameter 30-40 mm Weight Markings Kilograms and Pounds Pros of the Giant Lifting V3 Kettlebell Sold individually or in sets Color-coded handles Powder coated for grip and corrosion resistance Shows weights in kilograms and pounds Single mold, which increases durability Cons of the Giant Lifting V3 Kettlebell Somewhat expensive Materials Die gravity cast iron with powder-coated finish Handle Diameter 30-40 mm Weight Range 4 kg/9 lbs – 48 kg/106 lbs Price Under $3 per poundThe Giant Lifting V3 Kettlebells are a durable set of kettlebells that come with color-coded handles for easy weight identification. Available in a wide range of weights, they’re well-suited for lifters of all experience levels.
What Our Tester Says:
“You get a great grip with this, and it feels like the coating can take a beating along with your workout. The black powder coating is helpful with sweaty hands.”
The GIANT Lifting V3 Kettlebells are ideal for beginner kettlebell workouts due to their straightforward design and wide range of weight options (13 choices between 4 and 48 kilograms). The powdercoat finish provides a solid, comfortable grip that helps prevent any slipping—something that’s especially important when you’re learning new kettlebell exercises. Earning an impressive overall score of 4.62 out of 5, these bells should work well for users of all experience levels.
Durability: 5/5
Handle: 5/5
Weight Options: 5/5
I got my hands on the V3 Kettlebells shortly after they hit the market, and let’s just say I came away mightily impressed. From a design standpoint, they check every box. In addition to color-coded handles, there are markings for both pounds and kilograms. They also have a flat base for easier storage. The construction easily earns a perfect 5 out of 5.
Most importantly, these bells performed well across multiple exercises. I had no trouble maintaining control for kettlebell curls and overhead presses. Ditto for two-handed exercises like goblet squats and swings. Although we didn’t have access to a wide range of weights during testing, beginners can buy a few of the lighter ‘bells to get started before progressing to heavier totals. With sizes ranging from 9 pounds to 106 pounds, GIANT gets a 5-out-of-5 rating for weight options.
From a design and performance perspective, I have zero complaints about the V3 Kettlebells. Perhaps the only drawback here—and it’s a fairly notable one—is the price. The lightest option (9 lbs) costs $35, while the heaviest option (106 lbs) costs $277.78. These certainly aren’t the most expensive kettlebells on the market, but they’re not as budget-friendly as something like the Yes4All powder-coated kettlebells, where the 9-pound model costs just $19.52.
Another related callout: GIANT only covers these kettlebells with a one-year warranty. That’s another reason why we gave a 3-out-of-5 value rating.
If you need something more budget-friendly, check out the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells.
The GIANT Lifting V3 Kettlebells earned perfect scores across five categories. Other than the price, it’s hard to knock much against them.
The GIANT Lifting Kettlebells are more expensive than the average kettlebell when you go for heavier options. You do, however, get a more expansive weight range.
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Affordable and Reliable GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 3.85 Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells Amazon Prime shipping 30-day return 1-year warranty Weight Range 5-90 lbs Handle Diameter 40 mm Construction Cast iron with vinyl coating Weight Markings Kilograms and pounds Pros of Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells Comfortable for those with smaller hands Free Prime shipping Highly affordable 30-day return policy Cons of Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells Made of lightweight plastic Not available in heavier sizes Smoother handle not the best for grip Handle Diameter 40 mm Materials Vinyl-coated cast iron Weight Options 5-90 lbs Dimensions 9.06″ L x 6.5″ W x 10.04″ HYes4All kettlebells certainly aren’t on the same level as some of the other contenders in this lineup, but they’re affordable and a great option if you’re just starting your fitness journey. Most importantly, if you have small hands, you should have no trouble maintaining control during your exercise routine.
If you’re trying to minimize costs while maximizing gains, the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells are your best bet. You can find these budget-friendly bells on Amazon or even Walmart at affordable prices, making them a wise investment for beginners who want to get comfortable with kettlebell training. From a value perspective, these earn a strong 4-out-of-5 rating.
Value: 4/5
Weight Options: 5/5
Construction: 2.5/5
Although we haven’t tested this particular kettlebell profile yet, we have tried some of Yes4All’s other products. This is a kettlebell that, as we like to say, “Gets the job done.” The weight tolerance is pretty on point, there are good weight options, and it’s coated in plastic, which isn’t our favorite, but it does offer some protection for your home gym as well as rust resistance. We rate the weight options at a perfect 5 out of 5, too, as you can go as light as 5 pounds or as heavy as 90. This allows you to perform just about any exercise with a safe amount of weight while still giving you room to progress.
Although these are by no means the most high-quality bells on the market, you get great value. In addition to their affordable price, you can score free shipping if you’re an Amazon Prime member—a nice bonus for anyone looking to build a collection of budget home gym equipment and one of the reasons we gave a 5-out-of-5 rating for purchasing and shipping. Based on my experience with similar Yes4All kettlebells, I’d be more than happy investing in a few different sizes and using these for strength training.
Budget-friendly can mean lower quality, and that’s admittedly the case here. Compared to higher-end options from well-recognized brands like Rogue and REP Fitness, the Yes4All kettlebells have a cheaper look and feel. For one, the handle is a bit smoother, leaving room for slippage that can’t be adjusted with added chalk. That’s not to say these are guaranteed to cause broken windows, but you should be a little more cognizant of your grip when swinging these. From a construction standpoint, these earn a 2.5 out of 5, as they’re nowhere near the top of the line in build quality.
That build quality can also rear its head when it comes to actual weight totals. According to some online customer reviews, there have been noted inaccuracies between listed and actual weights. Granted, you get what you pay for, and the inconsistencies aren’t astronomical, but if you value precision in your home gym equipment, it may be best to invest more in your gear.
If you’re willing to spend more on something far more durable, we recommend the Rogue E-Coat Kettlebells.
The Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells didn’t score as well in terms of construction or durability compared to other models we tested. However, you get good bang for your buck and ample weight choices.
The Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells are substantially cheaper than the average kettlebell. You also can go heavier, as there are options available up to 90 pounds.
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Heavy Duty With Even Finish GGR Score We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. 4.5 Iron Bull Kettlebell Free shipping for U.S. domestic orders over $150 Klarna (interest-free payments) Limited lifetime Up to 10% off + free shipping on large purchases See Details Weight Range 4-40 kg (9-88 lbs) Handle Diameter 30-40 mm, depending on the weight Construction Single piece of cast iron with powdercoat finish Weight Markings Kilograms and pounds Pros of Iron Bull Kettlebells Durable Powder-coated Color-coded for easy identification 30-day money back guarantee Cons of Iron Bull Kettlebells Handles may feel too thick for some Only sold in singles Handle Diameter 30-40 mm, depending on the weight Materials Solid cast iron with powdercoat finish Options 11 different sizes (4-40 kg)The Iron Bull Kettlebells are constructed with durable cast iron and finished with a powder coating for added durability and longevity. Available in weight options ranging from 4 to 88 pounds and color-coded for easy identification, these kettlebells are a solid choice for any home gym owner.
The Iron Bull Kettlebells have a smooth, even powder coating that can make them easier to grip and less likely to become a danger to you and your workout partners. The colored bands on the handle aren’t just for show—they let you know the weight of the kettlebell, which is also printed in kilograms and pounds on the face. And with a wide range that extends to 88 pounds, these earn a perfect 5 out of 5 for weight options.
Construction: 4.5/5
Handle: 4.5/5
Value: 4/5
From a design standpoint, these kettlebells have a thick, ergonomic handle that’s easy and comfortable to grip and wide enough to allow you to perform two-handed exercises. We rate the handle at 4.5 out of 5, especially since the heavier bells have a wider diameter for more control. “To me, the wider handle helps you focus on grip control,” states Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC. “Plus, I’m really only using heavier totals for deadlifts and carries, so the extra challenge can be a nice supplemental perk.”
Furthermore, the powder coat finish adds to the aesthetic and performance of these kettlebells. Having used kettlebells with different coatings, I can attest that something like the Iron Bull will allow you to maintain superior control, even when your palms get sweaty. These also hold chalk well, according to Ben. “That’s a big plus if you’re looking to crush some kettlebell CrossFit exercises,” he states.
Unfortunately, Iron Bull only sells these kettlebells in singles, and most of the bells cost anywhere between $2 and $3 per pound (some a little more than $3). On the bright side, you get a 30-day, money-back guarantee, and there are financing options available through Klarna. That’s enticing enough to earn a 4 out of 5 for value, especially given the build quality of the Iron Bulls.
We’ll also call attention to the handle diameter that ranges from 30 to 40 millimeters, depending on your chosen weight. The thicker handles, while a boost to your kettlebell control, may be difficult to grip for those with smaller digits. It’s something to keep in mind if you plan on ordering high-weight profiles right out of the gate.
These are a bit pricey, so if you want to save a little money, the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells are a more affordable option that we still like and recommend.
The Iron Bull Kettlebell received one of the highest overall scores of any kettlebell we’ve tested. Here’s a closer look by category:
The Iron Bull Kettlebell is available in heavier sizes than the average kettlebell. The cheapest option is right on par with the average cost, as well.
We have a fever, and the only prescription is more kettlebells. Luckily for us, the GGR team has tested dozens of kettlebells over the past few years. Here are a few we’ve had our hands on that you might want to consider:
To find the best kettlebells for your home gym, we looked at every option available on the market today and graded them based on the following criteria:
The kettlebell is the king of being an all-in-one tool for conditioning. With a flat bottom and curved bell, the uneven distribution of weight can create an incredibly effective platform for cardio and weight training exercises. Some of the many kettlebell benefits include the following:
You work on several different aspects of fitness when doing kettlebell exercises: endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance, among others. In other words, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
“For exercise to be considered strength or resistance training, it must challenge your muscles to the point where they adapt and become stronger,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD.
For more kettlebell manufacturersinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
When you invest in the best home gym equipment, it’s key to find a single piece that offers versatility. With a kettlebell, you can work on:
Clearly, a kettlebell can give you a chance to work on a multitude of modalities. But heed this piece of advice from Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
“With whatever exercise you decide to indulge in, try to be consistent, as it can have positive effects on your mental health over time, too,” he explains.
RELATED: Upper Body Kettlebell Workout
Going for a run is great, but I also love it when I can get my heart rate up while using some kind of weight. Kettlebells can be amazing for cardio workouts that include high-intensity intervals as well as low-weight, high-rep options. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research1 even found in a study that four weeks of high-intensity kettlebell snatch training helped increase aerobic capacity of collegiate soccer players.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with using running workouts to improve your cardiovascular fitness. However, kettlebell training can offer an alternative way to improve your aerobic capacity.
“There’s no ‘best’ type of exercise,” says Dr. Mohr. “The best is the one you’ll enjoy and continue with.”
A comprehensive review2 speaks on the benefits of resistance training with kettlebells. Not only does it help produce and develop strength and endurance, but it also develops explosive strength, or power.
Weightlifters, runners, and other athletes look to the kettlebell to build explosive strength. Exercises like kettlebell swings engage the hips and posterior chain to create power. The kind of explosive energy the hips create is key to activities like sprinting, jumping, and weightlifting movements like the snatch.
You’ll be opening pickle jars in no time! Okay, I can’t make that promise, but I can tell you that kettlebells can be a great way to build grip strength.
Don’t believe me? A clinical trial in showed adults were able to improve grip strength in both hands over a three-month period by taking part in high-intensity hardstyle kettlebell training.
The kettlebell’s center of gravity is about 6 to 8 inches away from your palm, which means that the weight itself is unbalanced in your hands. This makes your gripping muscles (like the forearms and wrists) work harder while you perform just about any exercise with the bell. Kettlebells are also great for actual grip-strengthening exercises like farmers’ carries.
I don’t like to say that certain strength training exercises are dangerous or risky. After all, anything you do carries a risk with it. But, when compared to, say, putting a 300-pound barbell on your back and squatting it, the kettlebell exercise appears to carry a little less risk.
Lifting heavy weights has its place, and I’m here for it, but if that’s something that scares you, kettlebell workouts can be a safe alternative. You can still build muscle and power without doing something that may cause you some anxiety. To minimize your risk of injury,, you want to keep a strong, controlled grip across the weight. You should also choose a weight total that provides a bit of a challenge but can be moved without compromising your form.
“For beginners, it’s smart to start with lighter weights and focus on mastering the correct form,” says Dr. Mohr. “As your strength improves, you can gradually increase the weight and it’s important to push and challenge yourself.”
The best kettlebell for you will depend on multiple factors, including what type of kettlebell you want, what type of exercise you plan on doing, and your fitness levels. To start, let’s get familiar with the two main types of standard kettlebells:
When most people picture a kettlebell, this is what they see. The handle on solid cast iron kettlebells is flared out. The coating on these varies, as well. Most commercial gyms carry this kind of bell, which is great for recreational lifting, two-handed movements, and beginners. The diameter of the bell and its handle usually increases as the weight goes up, so people with larger hands will want to go heavier than someone with smaller hands.
These bells are made to competition standards with a 35-millimeter handle that does not exceed the width of the bell itself. This narrow grip is useful for the one-handed movements you might see in a competition. Mostly, the people who use a competition kettlebell will be people who are competing (as the name suggests) but they could still work for the everyday athlete.
Once you have an idea of the type of bell you want, you may also want to consider:
For home gym owners, we often recommend adjustable kettlebells over standard ones for two main reasons: They’re generally more affordable and they take up less space. That doesn’t mean they’re perfect for everyone, though.
RELATED: Adjustable Kettlebell Vs. Standard
Some adjustable kettlebells have a plastic or rubber handle, which can be much harder to grip than the textured handles often found on standard ‘bells. We don’t have to tell you why this can be an issue, but it can also create problems if your adjustable kettlebell’s shell is made of plastic (which many are). Plastic is much easier to break than steel or iron.
In a perfect world, your home gym would contain the best kettlebells and dumbbells, but we don’t live in a perfect world. If you’re stuck on which one to choose for your home workouts, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Get the full details in our dumbbells vs. kettlebells guide.
According to certified personal trainer and USA Weightlifting Level-1 Coach Kate Meier, the best kettlebell hand placement depends on what type of movement you’re doing, though there are some universal truths.
“First, always wrap your thumb around the handle (don’t just use your four fingers as your grip),” says Kate. “Secondly, don’t death-grip the kettlebell. You should have a firm grip so it doesn’t fly out of your hands, but you don’t need to squeeze it so hard that your forearms burn (you’ll get a good enough pump with a just-firm-enough grip).”
Holding a kettlebell for a double-handed movement like a kettlebell swing will depend on your hand size, Kate says.
“Your hands should be placed just slightly apart, biasing each hand toward the corners of the handle in an overhand grip,” she says. “Depending on how big your hands are and your comfort, you may find your pinkies gripping down the side of the handle, and that’s OK.”
When it comes to teaching her clients kettlebell hand placement for single-handed movements, Kate takes it on a case-by-case basis since there are two general categories of single-handed moves—simple and complex.
A simple move would be a row or deadlift, in which she recommends a centered, overhand grip.
The same rule, however, wouldn’t apply to a snatch. Here’s her guidance for that:
“You may find more control and smoother movement by gripping the handle more toward the corner instead of dead center (though this usually comes down to preference),” she says. The reason for the switch is that kettlebell snatches are notorious for bruising wrists and forearms.
For a Turkish get-up, you’ll want to return to a more centered grip while switching up how you grab the handle. “Put your hand up through the underside of the handle instead of an overhand grip,” Kate explains. “Front rack, overhead holds, and carries would also use this through-the-handle grip.”
To break this guide down to the short and sweet details, we’ve compiled a table featuring all the most important information you need when deciding between the best kettlebells on the market.
I’m asked all the time, “Scott, what brand of kettlebells do you recommend?”
Well, here’s the answer.
First, let me say, all of these brands are excellent.
I recommend them all based on the high quality.
For a long time, I always recommended one particular brand, with another brand (not listed here) as a less expensive alternative.
The less expensive brand was not a good, as you might expect, but it was definitely a solid kettlebell for the cost conscious.
Remember the old saying, “you get what you pay for.”
This is usually true, although times are changing.
You’ll see what I mean in the comparison below.
So, here’s the best kettlebell brands, based on my experience.
I own all 3 of these brands (in addition to others).
Do I have a preference?
Let’s find out.
BRAND 1.) RKC Kettlebell from Dragon Door.
The RKC kettlebell is, without a doubt, a high-quality kettlebell.
The shape, design, handle, coating, and concentration of mass make it one of the best.
I have had some issues (an “uneven” bottom with a couple of bells), but I believe this may not be an issue with the newer ones.
You have to remember that all kettlebells are not the same and there can be significant variation from brand to brand (although the gap is definitely narrowing).
The newer RKC bells are smoother, have a tough, chip-resistant surface and unique design that allows for optimal training with kettlebells.
The quality does come at a cost, as these are still some of the most expensive kettlebells on the market.
And with shipping costs, it definitely adds up.
CONSUMER COST: The cost for a 24kg kettlebell is $118.75 plus shipping (my cost $57.73) for a total of $176.48.
An alternative to get the kettlebell less the shipping charge is to find a local distributor and pick up the kettlebells yourself.
BRAND 2.) Kettlebells USA Metrixx E-coat Kettlebell.
(Please note: the picture here is a 40 kg kettlebell, which is why it looks a little different from the others.)
This kettlebell is essentially identical, for all practical purposes, to the RKC kettlebell.
Same body design, shape, handle, and chip resistant “e-coat” surface.
The surface is one of the key features in a quality kettlebell, as you need a smooth, textured surface for high volume training, yet you need something that won’t chip if you happen to bang the handle.
The “e-coat” surface is excellent and won’t chip off easily.
The kettlebells USA is an excellent kettlebell.
Like I said, it’s essentially the same as the RKC kettlebell, except at a discounted price.
One other thing to be aware of on the price is that Kettlebells USA has daily specials, so you’ll likely be able to get the bell you want at an even lower discounted price.
The price below is the regular price (not the discounted price).
CONSUMER COST: The cost for a 24kg kettlebell is $85.99 plus shipping (my cost $41.46) for a total of $127.45.
BRAND 3.) The ‘NEW’ Rogue Kettlebell.
(*NOTE: At the time this article is being released, the inventory of most weight sizes is currently “out of stock.” Obviously, these kettlebells are selling well and I’m not surprised, as you’ll read my review below).
Rogue recently released a new line of kettlebells, which are great looking kettlebells.
I’m a huge fan of Rogue equipment, but didn’t like their kettlebells at all.
Until now, that is.
I just received the new kettlebells and they are absolutely awesome!
The shape, dimensions, coating, and handle are all superb.
This is very similar to the other high-quality kettlebells, although the handle is possibly just a bit more open.
Doesn’t seem to make a difference in performance and the bells feel excellent with the kettlebell ballistics and grinds.
The matte black powder coat finish has an awesome feel to it and has a seamless handle with no lines (as do the other bells above).
This is what you want.
They also added a color coding system, where each different weight has a different color at the base of the handle.
This is actually a very nice feature to identify the weight you need quickly, especially if you have a lot of kettlebells.
But, if there is a deal breaker, it may be the price.
Wow! I couldn’t believe such a high-quality kettlebell was selling for this price.
My initial purchase was 4 kettlebells (as I had received positive feedback from a Facebook friend prior to my purchase) and they are all excellent quality.
Each kettlebell had a very consistent finish (the same on each bell) and has a flat bottom, with no defect.
Did I mention my RKC kettlebell had an irregular defect on the bottom so that it “wobbles” when placed on the ground.
This is not good if you’re doing renegade rows with this pair of kettlebells.
I also performed high rep snatches with the Rogue kettlebell to see how the textured handle was on my hand.
Did it cause any problems with high volume work?
Nope, not all.
Smooth and comfortable.
Excellent handle and finish for high rep snatches, which was the final check off for a quality kettlebell.
Now, take a look at the cost below for this product.
CONSUMER COST: The cost for a 24kg kettlebell is $62.50 plus shipping (my cost is $23.01) for a total of $85.51.
And, here’s an “honorable mention” on one more brand.
While I don’t have this kettlebell, I have trained with it before and it’s an excellent kettlebell.
It’s the Perform Better kettlebell, which again, is very similar to the RKC kettlebell.
Another quality, excellent priced kettlebell.
So, what brand do I recommend?
Here’s a quick video review on my take on kettlebell brands.
These are all great, high-quality kettlebells, without question.
Maybe there’s a brand I now prefer, but I would recommend any of them for serious kettlebell training.
The brand that’s the best is the brand that works for you.
Price is obviously a consideration.
All of these are great quality options.
Well, you have my “scouting report” with my analysis and comparison, now the choice is yours.
Hope this helps you in determining what’s the best kettlebell for your training.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website 12 Sided Fixed Urethane Barbells.
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