The Best Kettlebells
You'll be hard-pressed to find a gym without at least a few kettlebells lurking in the corner. These widespread workout tools aren't prolific for no reason, as their simple design belies an unparalleled versatility that can be incorporated into weight training through calisthenics, cardio, and more. We've taken stock of a few of the best on the market today, so read on below to get the scoop.
What to Look For
Not all kettlebells are built the same, so we focused on three crucial questions to help narrow down your search. Do they come in a range of weights suitable for various applications? Are the handles comfortable and ergonomic? Are they made with a protective coating to battle chipping and corrosion? Our overall favorite kettlebell comes from Yes4All. These classic bells come with a bright vinyl coating that makes them stand out from the crowd and protects the cast iron inside. If you’re looking for a varied multi-pack to get you started, check out the set from BalanceFrom. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell Weights
Great protection
While your local gym might have made you used to the rough aesthetics of well-used training apparatuses, the sleek finish of these vinyl kettlebells is sure to rouse you to action. Hiding a high-quality cast iron construction beneath, these rugged contenders are sure to withstand some serious punishment. The vinyl finish isn’t just for looks either, as they can cushion the blow when dropped to keep your gym flooring in good shape. With numerous weight options ranging from 5 to 50 pounds, you can take your pick from the full gamut no matter your weight class or training regimen.
Pros:
- A flat-bottomed design ensures that these kettlebells will stay put when not in use.
- Gentle texturing on the handle offers an improved grip as you train.
Cons:
- Though we love the striking blue, we missed the lack of alternative color options.
Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell Weights
Building your own home workout space can quickly turn into an expensive enterprise. This great value option from Amazon Basics helps to keep costs down, so they could leave you with more cash to use on other gym additions. A good pair of kettlebells should last a lifetime. You won’t have to worry about breaking a sweat as you push yourself to the limit, thanks to the superb grip provided by deep texturing on the handles
Pros:
- The extra-wide handles offer a comfortable grip whether you’re lifting with one hand or two.
- Thanks to the protective black enamel coating on these beauties, they’re built to resist corrosion and are incredibly easy to clean.
Cons:
- The enamel coating is prone to chipping if dropped on hard surfaces like concrete, but you shouldn’t have any problems on a standard gym mat.
BalanceFrom Wide Grip Kettlebell Weight Set
Whether or not you’ve already honed in on your ideal weight for training, it never does any harm to have several options on hand as you work out. This trio from BalanceFrom lets you keep your options open as you train, leaving plenty of room to build up to the heaviest 20-pound kettlebell. With so much versatility on offer here, this set could be the perfect addition to any new home gym.
Pros:
- These kettlebells are made from durable vinyl shells filled with cement, making them a great alternative to standard designs if metal coatings aren’t to your taste.
- A metal-free design also puts an end to instances of rust or other corrosion, so you can store these bells outside hassle-free.
- We appreciate the color coding, making it easy to reach for the right weight in the spur of the moment.
Cons:
- Because of the large combined weight of this set, shipping costs can add a significant amount to the total.
Apex Adjustable Kettlebell Weight Set
Climbing up the ranks
Traditional kettlebells do exactly as advertised with little room for adjustment. While most might reach for a barbell when looking for a modular weightlifting solution, this adjustable kettlebell from Apex lets you retain the familiar kettlebell form while allowing you to pick a weight to suit your needs. The cast iron handle and base already offer a suitable challenge at a combined 20 pounds, and each of the plastic spacers can be easily replaced by any standard weight plate with a one-inch opening.
Pros:
- The screw-in weight pin is easy to disassemble, so you won’t have to break your flow as you change weights.
- Despite its unique form, we found that this bell retained the same feel as a standard kettlebell during use.
Cons:
- This adjustable option doesn’t include additional weight plates, so you’ll have to have your own or purchase them separately.
Meister MMA Elite Portable Sand Kettlebell
If you’re serious about your workout routine, you might be the sort that likes to carry the basics with you as you travel. While it’s easy enough to keep up with calisthenics in an unfamiliar area, carrying weights with you on an adventure often seems like an impossibility. This nifty design from Meister MMA affords unlikely portability to the humble kettlebell. Its sand-filled design can be easily emptied for compact storage and easy transport, so you can carry it with you wherever you roam.
Pros:
- The neoprene semi-rigid handle offers added stability when compared to smooth metallic finishes.
- You don’t have to fill the bag to maximum capacity, so this is a great option if you’re looking to slowly build up to a heavier weight.
Cons:
- It might not always be a simple task to get hold of enough sand to refill when you’re on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exercises can I do with my kettlebells?
The kettlebell is a gym staple for a reason, and there are very few pieces of gym equipment that are so versatile. They can be used for all ranges of weight training exercises including workouts for the legs, back, and core. If you lay them on the floor, they can also provide an elevated handle for pushups and the like.
How can I prevent my kettlebells from rusting?
Though most of the options that we reviewed are sealed with a protective coating, large masses of cast iron will always present the risk of developing rust if not properly maintained. To keep them at their best, store metal kettlebells indoors away from moisture, and be sure to give them a quick wipe down once you’ve finished each session. If you want to mitigate the risk of rust entirely, keep your eyes peeled for bells made from plastic or other alternative materials.
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