Top 10 Kettlebells Reviewed and Rated
When you are looking at the best kettlebells, you need to know how they differ from adjustable dumbbells and barbell products for getting into shape. Best kettlebells offer fitness progressions in various kettlebell weights, making it that much easier to achieve your fitness goals and help you reach new levels of strength and flexibility. If you want to perform better, kettlebells are key.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 4 hrs of research
Multiple weights available
Made with cast iron
Bottom is flat
1-year warranty
Can be used without chalk
10 Best Kettlebells
1. Yes4All Vinyl Coated
Multiple weights available
Made with cast iron
Bottom is flat
1-year warranty
Can be used without chalk
Some report packaging issues
Ringing in the list is the Yes4All kettlebell. They've made appearances on multiple guides of ours, and we just can't get enough. We keep going back for more, and so will you. The quality craftsmanship goes a long way in winning people over. It's also supremely comfortable, making your workouts easy and enjoyable.
If you're into fitness even a little bit (of course you are! That's why you're here, isn't it?), then you'll be drooling over the features presented. Yes4All really went all out here!
There are so many reasons to invest, and very little not to. Keep reading to find out exactly what we love, and the one thing we're skeptical of.
Read moreIt's really all in the name. Yes4All stands by their moniker by stepping up to the plate and delivering fantastic designs fit for anybody to use. They openly say that this is the best kettlebell that a person of any age or gender can easily use in their workout.
Yes4All also included a lovely Vinyl coating which aids in comfort and softens the exterior. It's a lot less likely to scratch up a floor if there's a coating on it. It also paints a much prettier aesthetic! The vinyl coating will also lend more durability and keep the iron from corroding early on by protecting it from the elements.
The flat bottom allows for incredibly easy storage and will keep it from rolling around. Just pop it out of the way and know it'll stay put! The cast-iron build means that it'll last for years to come- iron is notorious for standing the test of time!
This is a fantastic choice for athletes of all types. However, some customers reported that their package came in damaged, or with a product that was different than the one pictured. This is absolutely the minority by far, but it's worth keeping in mind.
2. AmazonBasics Cast Iron
Coated in damage-resistant paint
Huge range of different weights
Textured for grip
Thick, comfortable handle
No vinyl coating
While this is a fairly new line, Amazon has recently decided to dig into the world of sports and fitness equipment. They've consistently been turning out new products, each better than the last. While Amazon Basics might seem like a "generic" brand to some, it absolutely has a place on our lists!
We're dying to get into the thick of things, so let's get on down to business. We're super impressed, and we just love sharing in that excitement!
Read moreUnfortunately, this is not coated in vinyl. That was the defining reason why it came in second. This is a design with stellar reviews and many happy customers. However, knowing what we do about kettlebells, we definitely think vinyl puts Yes4All ahead. That's why this one ended up #2 on the list instead of on the top.
Aside from that, we really enjoyed reading up on and researching into the design that AmazonBasics whipped up. They've given you a huge range of weights to choose from, ensuring that it's accessible to everybody! That's a huge plus in our books.
The cast-iron build ensures it's going to last for ages to come. Instead of vinyl, it's coated with rust- and corrosion-resistant paint. This only half-way makes up for the lack of vinyl. However, all in all, this is absolutely a solid choice. We're just nitpicking!
3. Rep Fitness
Stunning aesthetic
Single-cast iron
Ergonomic design
Matte texture
The grip may be poor
Can we just take a second and appreciate how gorgeous this equipment is? We know, we know. Looks aren't everything and you can't judge a book (or kettlebell) by it's cover (or paint job). However, the great elements of design don't stop at the matte finish.
This little baby is the whole package. We're wary of the lack of texture since it affects grip, but we'll go over that more below. Aside from that, we're gettin' really excited over it. It even has a flat bottom! Call Queen and tell them that fat bottoms are, in fact, not what makes this world go 'round.
At least where Kettlebells are concerned.
Read moreIf you're looking to bulk up and get fitter quicker, then pop on over and check this guy out. Rep Fitness really went all the way when they dreamed up this design. She's a beaut'!
Quite frankly, the stunning looks are what drew us in first. After we started looking into the reviews and the features, we were pretty sold. The flat-black paint job is complemented by the matte finish. To top it all off, there are green rings around the base of the handle. It's a small touch, but it makes it look oh, so good.
While they have included a gentle texture, it really isn't enough to bring the grip up to par. We highly recommend investing in some high-quality chalk to keep it from slipping out of your grip.
4. Kettle Gryp Adjustable
Entirely customizable
Ergonomic
Highly portable
Unusual design
We're not gonna lie. The first thought upon seeing this was "What the hell is that?" Very quickly we realized what they did - and it's supremely clever. It may be a funky, wonky design, but it's got its perks!
Namely, it's perfect for having in your garage, home gym, or even when you're traveling. It's super clever and we're surprised this isn't a design we see more often. What design is that? We don't know!
Actually, we do. But you're gonna have to keep reading to find out.
Read moreSo, as it turns out this attaches to basically any dumbbell. That makes it absolutely fantastic for taking on the go. You can easily get in a workout even while you're traveling. Being able to pack a couple of dumbbells and this attachment means you're good to go for almost a full-body workout.
Unfortunately, there is very little texture added so chalk is absolutely necessary to use. This ensures you have a firm grip and you don't have any unfortunate accidents. It's never a good thing when a dumbbell literally goes flying because it slips out of your grip.
That's just a bad day, honestly.
This is also a fantastic option for children or for active elderly people. You can adjust the weight so that it's absolutely manageable for anybody. There isn't a vinyl coating, however, so that's certainly a mark against it. All in all, this is a great option if you're low on space and/or equipment.
5. Best Choice Products
Set of three
Designed ergonomically
Storage rack included
Beginner friendly
Only goes up to 15lbs
We have the first multi-pack on our list! This set of three will give you everything you need when you're just starting out. We don't really recommend it for advanced users- but if you are in that group you probably already know that.
Anyway, this is a special set we've really come to enjoy. Best Choice Products took some extra time in the manufacturing process to ensure quality! Maybe there are a few things that are iffy, but honestly, this is a pretty solid choice.
So, does "Best Choice Products" really stand up when it comes to providing the best choice of products? Find out below where we git into the nitty-gritty.
Read moreEverybody has to start somewhere, and kettlebell reviews are a great place to start.
This set of three means that you can move up and down the weights as you need to. It also gives you a great selection to pick from. Hey, you can even get the whole family involved! These are pretty great for everybody.
Again, this loses points for the lack of texture as well as the paint finish. We always prefer vinyl. However, it's not enough for us to disregard it in general. The design is great, it comes with a storage base, and the design is really cute! The matching color between the weight and the surrounding circle is a nice touch.
It's also worth mentioning that you're going to want to upgrade at some point. Keep that in mind! If you feel like you're fit enough to handle 15lbs, then it may be better to pick a different set with higher weights.
6. Empower Weight Set
Designed with women in mind
Beautiful colors
Easy to use
Futuristic design
Easily storable
Not suitable for men
Baby blue, just for you! Would you look at that color? Absolutely stunning design, quite frankly, and we couldn't be more pleased about it. Empower is a brand that is on a mission to empower women specifically.
It's well known that there's quite a bit of backlash in the world of athletes against women. This is a great way to level the playing field by taking back control from your anatomy.
Women and men are absolutely built differently, but that doesn't mean women are weaker. You just need the right boost to get built. Empower's weight set will get you there in a snap. Literally! It's a snap-on-snap-off system.
Alright, time to move on before we start throwing more puns around. Let's talk about this a little more in-depth!
Read moreFirst off, we absolutely commend this brand for its mission. #GirlPower is the best power. Women want to flex their hard-earned muscles just as much... and trust us, they can get just as built.
So, this one is perfect for all of our cut ladies out there. Also, the ombre looks super cool. It's an "aside", but it's pretty obvious and thus worth mentioning.
We're also a fan because of the unique design. It's super easy to use and makes storage a breeze. The three plates you see at the bottom can be removed and put back on to customize weight. It almost reminds us of those little Russian dolls that go inside of one another (you know the ones).
Aside from the fantastic design and mission, we love their attention to detail and high-quality construction practices.
7. Ader Vinyl
Vinyl coating
Multi-set
Wide handle
Colors vary from order to order
Expensive
Ader is anything but average. They've absolutely won their place on this list by beating out the competition with their excellent design methods. The complete package has been completely laid out for ya here, folks! It's important to remember that all kettlebells on this list, no matter how far down they are, have earned their place. We don't feature low-quality products.
So, rest assured that this is every bit as worth your time as product number one! Enough of all that, though. It's time to pick apart the meat of the matter.
Read moreThe main reason that this lands further down the list is that it's a fairly expensive set. While we very much enjoy the design, it may be unaffordable to many people. It's always worth to invest in quality... but if you can't afford it, you can't afford it.
A set of three makes this set worth it in our minds. That's a three-in-one deal! They also come loaded with some great features. A vinyl coating ensures serious durability and makes sure they will be able to last you forever. Iron is prone to corrosion and rusting, so the protective coating really helps.
The lightly textured handle is thin, which may make it uncomfortable for some people. Although some do prefer that design, the overwhelming majority find them more uncomfortable than the thicker handles. It's still a fairly ergonomic design, however!
8. Tone Fitness
Different colors available
Cement-based
Multiple weights to choose from
Poor grip due to texture
Get toned quickly and efficiently with Tone Fitness! They're gearing up to give you the best of the best as far as kettlebells go. Of course, there are some flaws in the design, but overall we're diggin' it!
Tone Fitness has been churning out some excellent product lines. This is only one of their many different pieces of gym equipment. They have some great experience in the realm of athletics. You just can't beat out experience!
Let's figure out just what those flaws or, but also why we're so into it!
Read moreAvailable in multiple colors, this is absolutely a great choice if you're pretty set in your aesthetic. Athleisure is popular these days... and it's not just limited to clothing! You can definitely rock it by matching your clothing to your gym equipment.
You might find that it's super zen, in fact. It's always nice to have a coherent, pretty space for a more enjoyable workout! The kettlebell itself is anything but ungainly. They have a lovely professional vibe.
They lack the vinyl coating we love so much and the handle isn't exactly great. It's thick, but the design is a little wonky.
9. Dragon Door RKC
Solid, durable design
Highly trusted brand
Flat bottom
No vinyl coating
Enter the Dragon's Door if you dare! ... Okay, maybe it's ominous, but we really couldn't resist. What a name, right? Luckily, this is a kettlebell that's as strong and resilient as a dragon. It's sturdy, heavy, and ready to go.
You'll build muscles pretty easily with this guy on your side. However, it does come in one size, which can be problematic.
Read moreOn the other hand, the weight makes it perfect for athletes with a little experience under their belts. It's certainly not for beginners - 44lbs is pretty heavy! But, hey, you gotta start somewhere and you can totally work your way up to it.
Again, without the vinyl coating, we have a hard time ranking it higher. We do love the handle, however, which is ergonomic and easy to use. They also say that it's rust-resistant, although some customers disagree.
The overwhelming consensus really is that it's a fantastic choice. There are a couple of outliers... but nine times out of ten it comes highly recommended. We just wish these kettlebells came in more sizes!
10. GoFit Premium
Non-slip grip
Rubber coating
Training DVD included
Range of weights available
Some DVDs didn't work on arrival
GotFit released the Premium line with excellent design in mind... and it shows! We're down to our last product, and we're very happy to end it on a positive note. GoFit is great. They even include a free DVD! Everybody loves free. How does that saying go? "If it's free, it's for me!"? Yeah, we all feel that.
It's a slick design with some great features. Unfortunately, it comes last because there are a few things that customers have pointed out in reviews. We'll get into that later, though. First, let's talk about what we love!
Read moreIt's vinyl dipped, which is an excellent feature. We definitely prefer vinyl dipped because of the extra protection it provides for the equipment. Durability is super important and you want your gear to last as long as possible. Wearing out quickly doesn't do you any favors.
They also gave it a non-slip grip for your safety and convenience. We still recommend using chalk on your hands as an extra precaution... but it really is optional! On top of that, they provide a free DVD that features Brook Benton! You can't beat free workout routines!
However, it's time to get into the reasons we put it last on the list. Unfortunately, there have been some reports that products have arrived damaged, or just not as represented. We're sure that this is the minority, but if it did happen you can always send it back for a replacement or full refund.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Size
The first thing to think about is how big you want your kettlebell to be. Size has a lot to do with the overall accessibility of the products. We also give more credence to equipment that's portable, easy to store, and versatile. Bulky gear takes up much-needed space and can make your home gym pretty crowded. That's bad for your zen!
The best way to make sure you're getting the best deal is to buy a multi-set. This offers you different sizes to fit your needs. If you have space for them, go for it! Almost all of them come with stands (make sure you look for that specifically).
If you're low on space, go with a single. There are some that are easily adjustable and pretty compact because of it. Having a single weight is alright, too! It'll probably be a while before you're able to
Weight
Standard kettlebell weights for beginners include the 5lb. kettlebell and 15lb. kettlebell. As the weightlifter progresses, he will move on to the 25lb. kettlebell and 35 lb. kettlebell before he reaches his ultimate goal in strength training and is regularly working out with a 50lb. kettlebell.
Because kettlebells are often performed in one-handed routines, learning the proper form from the start is imperative if you wish to prevent injury. Therefore, the weight of the kettlebell is important as a too-light kettlebell will promote poor form and not provide a sufficient workout.
A recommended weight for an inactive woman is 15 to 20lbs or approximately 8kg and 25 to 35lbs or around 14kg for an inactive man.
More athletic or active people should choose a woman’s kettlebell of around 25 to 30lbs. (12 to 14kg) and a man’s kettlebell of a 45 to 55lb weight or one that weighs 20 to 24kg.
Kettlebells may range in weight from a mere two pounds to as much as 200 pounds. The weight range you will be using will be dependent on your level of fitness and the kind of exercise you want to perform. Be aware that a kettlebell at a higher weight, such as 30+ pounds can be dangerous.
Comfort
When you're working out, comfort is key. That's even truer when you're working out from home. After all, you didn't start building a home gym just to go out of your way, did you? It's the convenience and comfort that being at home brings which makes us so much more apt to work out more.
Comfort matters so much when it comes to figuring out which gear is the best and what equipment you should avoid. You should never be in pain during a workout. During recovery, sure, but that's just due to lactic acid. While you're in the process of exercising you should feel comfortable and into it.
Choose a design that fits comfortably in your hands. Make sure that it's textured enough to help you find a good grip- you don't want it to go flying! Make sure that it isn't going to cause your hands damage. If you have particularly sensitive hands, just use chalk to increase your grip!
Compatibility
You have to understand that kettlebells supply a different type of workout than what you receive with one of their close "relatives", the dumbbell. That is because the center of mass is extended. Therefore kettlebell workouts are easier to perform than when an exerciser uses adjustable dumbbells to perform similar routines.
As a result, specific swinging movements are simpler to execute. Traditional kettlebell workouts, which are designed to build up one’s level of strength and endurance, focus on the shoulders, legs and lower back.
The strength of the grip also factors more into a kettlebell routine than it does in a dumbbell workout. Crossfit exercisers use kettlebells to enhance their regimens too.
To ensure compatibility, you can always go with an adjustable version. Adjustable kettlebells look very much like the traditional kind except their handle features a pin, which allows the user to set the weight you will be using.
While this type of kettlebell is not considered as sturdy as the traditional kettlebell, it is a convenient way to add weight while working out as well as a space-saving option for anyone who has a limited space in which to work out at home.
Materials
A large number of kettlebells are featured for sale but not all the pieces of equipment are made equally. While most of the equipment is pretty expensive, the additional price is well worth the benefits you will receive in terms of a practical workout aid that will last a lifetime.
Kettlebells are usually made of top-quality iron or steel since the materials are generally resistant to any kind of premature wear. Watch out for burrs or sharp seams in lesser quality kettlebells. Instead, look for quality kettlebells that are made of solid steel or iron as they are much more dependable than their multi-cast counterparts.
Also, watch out for kettlebells that may be coated with vinyl – meant to hide any imperfections. A vinyl-coated kettlebell can be hazardous as it can fly out of your hand if it sweats and becomes slippery. The vinyl-coated kind can also emit a synthetic scent that can be unpleasant.
Vinyl can be great, however. If the handles do not have a vinyl coating, it's actually preferable. You just have to make sure that there are a good grip and no vinyl on the handle itself.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Make sure that you're making good use of hand protection while using kettlebells. Gloves are a great choice in order to keep you from developing blisters, calluses, or cracked skin.
While these are absolutely essential to your setup, they aren't the end-all-be-all. There are a few that tout the benefits as though you only need a kettlebell to train. This couldn't be further from the truth. Kettlebells are great, but they should be used in a well-rounded routine with varied equipment.
Other Factors to Consider
Brand
You can obtain more information about the kettlebell by visiting specific brand sites that feature the kettlebell piece of equipment. Take a look at the, Dragon Door a sturdy kettlebell, or the heavy RKC solid Kettlebell, try out the Ader kettlebells, or the popular Gofit kettlebell.
You can even obtain fitness certification. Therefore, you can become involved in the training to the point that you can actually make using a kettlebell during exercise a career or part-time avocation.
For example, Dragon Door is responsible for originating the RKC kettlebell certification instructor program, which includes use of the Russian kettlebell in its RKC kettlebell offerings. You might say that Dragon Door is a prominent leader in the kettlebell industry.
Recently, the company launched a program that offers calisthenics training, based on the instruction associated with “Convict Conditioning.” This program is comprehensive and is almost a primary reference for anyone who is serious about using Russian kettlebell products or the best kettlebells on the market.
Whatever brand you choose, each is designed to build coordination and muscles. Kettlebell training using any of the aforementioned brands encourages proper body mechanics, all which increase endurance levels and strength.
Bottom Line
The above guidelines are minimum requirements with participants working up to elite objectives. Therefore, anyone who wishes to devote their time to kettlebell training needs to review the brands carefully and see which kettlebell product will meet their overall fitness goals and objectives on an ongoing basis.
Did you know that kettlebells have been utilized by athletes in Russia for many years? They have only caught hold in the U.S. lately. If you view a kettlebell, it basically is a weighted ball with a handle attached. Regardless of its basic look, there is quite a lot entailed in this basic workout tool. Kettlebells promote more movement and therefore more fat and calories are burned.
Naturally, you should customize your kettlebell program, depending on your own level of fitness and body type. However, the above examples can provide you with a basic idea of how to format a plan to increase your level of fitness and strength.
Hopefully, after reading this article, you have a better understanding of how to formulate that plan!
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are some exercises I can do with these?
Regardless of the brand, they are used primarily for functional activities, such as windmills, loading or swings. While kettlebells may not be appropriate for all traditional exercises or those exercises that are regularly performed with dumbbells, they are ideal for such moves as arm curls and chest presses.
q: Can I use them for Windmills?
Yes. Just keep in mind that the weights can be dangerous if they are not used properly. You should not use the heavier weights for exercises that cause you to twist or swing frequently. Windmills and swings are more appropriate when using lighter kettlebells, or weights under 30 pounds.
q: Do they come with warranties?
All kinds of brands of kettlebells come with a manufacturer’s guarantee whose length depends on the kettlebell quality. While lower quality kettlebells are usually guaranteed with a limited one-year warranty, premium brands feature a full lifetime warranty.
q: Do they come with guides or manuals?
Some brands provide an instruction pamphlet or DVD with their set of kettlebells – all of which can get you started on working out with the equipment.
q: Should I talk to my doctor before using a kettlebell?
We always recommend that you consult a physician before bringing in extra equipment to any workout. If you have a personal trainer or coach, feel free to ask them, too!
Overall, kettlebells are very safe. We just think caution is the best option in most cases.
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