Kettlebells are an extremely useful and versatile training tool for building strength, power and for developing cardiovascular capabilities.
However, finding the perfect kettlebell can be challenging as there are a number of different brands, shapes, sizes and weights to choose from.
This article will review the best kettlebells on the market and allow you to select a kettlebell that aligns with your needs.
Our top pick: Morgan Powder Coated Kettlebells
Weighing in at 4kg, 32kg, and everything in between, there’s something here to suit everyone.
The weights themselves are made from solid cast iron with a black, powder coat finish.
They also have coloured bands around the base of the handle for easy identification of the weight.
Each kettlebell is embossed with its weight identification in kilos and pounds. These kettlebells can be purchased in a pre-defined set or individually.
Pros
- High-quality, powder coated kettlebells
- Available in a wide range of weights
- Available as a set or individually
Cons
- More expensive than other options
Best Competition Grade: Force USA Pro Grade Kettlebells
When it comes to high-quality products, Force USA excel. Their kettlebells are not only superb quality and eye-catching, they are all competition standard and are universally the same size (regardless of weight).
Many manufacturers use cast iron for their kettlebells, however, Force USA have used steel which is far more durable and therefore will last longer.
Pros
- Competition specifications
- Steel kettlebells
- Great quality
Cons
- Expensive
Best Value: Meteor Heavy Duty Kettlebells
Next up we have the Meteor Heavy Duty Kettlebells which are designed to be easy to use for a range of exercises.
They are made from cast iron and do vary in size, depending on the weight of each specific kettlebell.
The handle of this kettlebell is wider than the competition standard kettlebells and it has also been powder coated to protect the weight from damage and provide a sleek finish.
Pros
- Relatively inexpensive
- Wider handle
- Black powder-coating
cons
- Less premium finish
Budget option: Everfit Kettlebell Set
Finally, we have the Everfit kettlebell set which is ideal for those who are on a tight budget or those who are new to using kettlebells.
There are 5 kettlebells in the set with a combined total weight of 22kg.
These concrete filled kettlebells come in varied sizes and have an anti-slip carry handle to facilitate a secure grip throughout training.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Superb option for beginners
- Anti-slip handle
cons
- Lower quality than alternatives
Fitness And Sport Warehouse Classic Russian Kettlebell
This Russian style kettlebell is also steel-made which makes it highly durable and less likely to become damaged.
In addition to this, there is also a rubber bottom to each kettlebell to protect the base of the weight and the floor.
These kettlebells come in varied sizes with the heavier weights being larger and the lighter weights being smaller.
Pros
- Robust steel construction
- Protective rubber bottom
- Variety of sizes
Cons
- Heaviest weight available is 24kg
Verdict
As discussed, selecting the right kettlebell that aligns with your goals and training is vastly important.
For us, there is no doubt that Force USA’s Pro Grade Kettlebells lead the way in terms of design, usability and style. This product may be the perfect choice for your own training.
Kettlebell Buyers Guide
There are a couple of important considerations that should be made prior to buying kettlebells. Before we discuss these points, let’s briefly look at kettlebell training and the benefits associated with it.
The Benefits Of Kettlebell Training
The kettlebell is a superb piece of gym equipment that can be used in a multitude of different ways to develop many components of fitness.
The biggest selling point of the kettlebell is that a wide range of exercises that can be performed using it – from the simple bicep curl to the complex clean and press, for example.
Regularly exercising using free weights, such as kettlebells, has been shown to be an effective method for improving overall strength.
However, the benefits of free weight training extended further than solely strength as it has also been found to increase muscle size, improve stability, increase mobility and reduce the risk of experiencing injury.
Kettlebells differ from both dumbbells and barbells in that they can also be used with a greater emphasis on cardiovascular development.
If you’ve ever attended a gym circuits class, it’s likely you’ve come across exercises such as the kettlebell swing, an exercise that has been scientifically proven to improve cardiovascular capacity.
Fitness Goal Considerations
The first and most important consideration that should be made when choosing a kettlebell is your own fitness goal.
What exactly will the kettlebell be used for in your training?
There is very little point in purchasing a light kettlebell if your goal revolves around improving strength.
Conversely, if you’re looking to improve your cardio, buying a super heavy kettlebell isn’t wise.
There are a variety of small and large kettlebells that can be purchased – make sure you select the correct size to suit your training style.
For example, using small kettlebells may be useful for holding during specific exercises, such as the goblet squat, but are less than ideal for big, powerful movements.
Kettlebell Quality And Comfort
Secondly, it’s worthwhile assessing the quality and durability of the kettlebell. One of the great things about the kettlebell is that it can be used for many dynamic exercises – such as the kettlebell swing.
This does mean that it must be durable and able to withstand high impacts which are often associated with dynamic exercises.
Additionally, consider the comfort and shape of the kettlebell. What is it made from? Is the handle comfortable and easy to grip? Once again, there is little point in buying a kettlebell only to find that it is uncomfortable and awkward to use or hold.
