6 Best Kettlebells for Home Gyms

Kettlebells are an excellent addition to any home gym, offering a versatile and effective way to improve strength and cardio fitness. With their unique shape and distributed weight, kettlebells provide a different stimulus to your muscles compared to dumbbells. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced fitness enthusiast, kettlebell exercises are easy to learn and suitable for all fitness levels.

In this article, we will review the top picks for the best kettlebells available on the market. We’ll discuss the benefits of training with kettlebells, the differences between kettlebells and dumbbells, and provide a guide on what to look for when purchasing kettlebells. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which kettlebell option is the right fit for your home gym.

Our Top Picks for the Best Kettlebells

Best Overall Kettlebell: REP Fitness Matte Kettlebells (KG)

Pros:

• Color-coded handles for easy weight identification
• Matte coating prevents chips and enhances grip
• Gravity-cast construction for enhanced durability
• Lifetime limited warranty

The REP Fitness Matte Kettlebells take the crown for the best overall kettlebells due to their superior durability, excellent grip provided by the matte finish, and a wide range of weight options available (ranging from one kilogram to 48 kilograms or 2.2 to about 106 pounds).

Each kettlebell is made using a gravity-cast construction process, where iron is poured into a single mold. This results in a sturdy product with no multiple parts welded or molded together, reducing the risk of breakage. In the unlikely event that your kettlebell gets damaged in a home gym setting, REP offers a limited lifetime warranty for replacements.

The kettlebells feature a completely flat bottom, preventing wobbling when stored or placed on the ground during workouts. The color-coded handles make it easy to identify different weights, and the weight is displayed in both pounds and kilograms on the bell. No manual conversions are necessary during your workouts.

While the matte coating provides a non-slip grip and helps prevent chips or scratches, it’s important to note that the kettlebells are not completely rust-resistant. To maintain their condition, it’s recommended to wipe off sweat and avoid exposing them to moisture.

Best Adjustable Kettlebell: REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells

Pros:

• Quick and easy adjustment mechanism
• Matte powder coating for a strong grip
• Rubber bottom protects floors from damage

Cons:

• May not be heavy enough for advanced athletes

If you’re searching for an adjustable kettlebell to maximize space in your home gym, the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells are an excellent choice. They offer the same space-saving benefits as adjustable dumbbells, allowing you to access a wide range of weights without the need for multiple kettlebells.

What sets the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells apart is their unique design, where the size of the bell remains the same as the weight increases. Unlike other adjustable kettlebells that add weight discs to the bottom, making the base bulky, REP’s adjustable kettlebell uses weight inserts that go inside the bell. This ensures a consistent size for the base, making it easier to handle during exercises like swings and snatches.

The adjustable kettlebell has a traditional feel, thanks to its cast iron exterior and matte powder coat. The powder coat provides an excellent grip, even when your hands get sweaty, and holds chalk well to prevent slipping.

Available in three sizes (eight to 16 kilograms, 16 to 24 kilograms, and 20 to 40 pounds), the REP Adjustable Kettlebell allows for quick weight adjustments using a plastic dial. Say goodbye to wasting time fiddling with inserts during your workouts.

Best Kettlebell for CrossFit: Rogue Fitness Kettlebells (LB)

Pros:

• Large weight range
• Matte finish offers a strong grip and rust protection
• Holds chalk well
• Single-cast process ensures durability

The Rogue Fitness Kettlebells are the go-to choice for CrossFit enthusiasts, offering a combination of durability and performance. These kettlebells can withstand heavy, near-daily use and maintain their condition over time.

Made with cast iron using a single mold, the Rogue Kettlebells feature a matte black powder coat finish and a flat base. This manufacturing and finishing process ensures reliable kettlebells that hold chalk well and remain stable when resting on the floor or a storage rack. You can use them without chalk and not worry about your hands slipping.

The weight range starts at nine pounds and goes up to 203 pounds, catering to various experience levels. The weight is displayed in pounds and kilograms, and the handles are color-coded for easy identification. Although the Rogue Kettlebells may not be the cheapest option available, the price is justified by their longevity and suitability for both home and commercial gyms.

Best Kettlebells for Beginners: Onnit Kettlebells

Pros:

• Gravity-cast manufacturing process ensures durability
• Powder-coated finish offers a good grip with or without chalk
• Free workouts available on Onnit’s website
• Color-coded handles

Onnit, known for its nutrition products, also produces high-quality kettlebells suitable for beginners. These kettlebells are available in weight options ranging from 13 to 70 pounds, providing a sufficient range for most newcomers to kettlebell training. The color-coded handles allow for quick identification of different weights, making it easy to select the desired weight for your workouts. The vibrant colors also aid in grabbing the same weight when using two kettlebells simultaneously.

Although slightly more expensive than other options on the market, Onnit kettlebells offer quality comparable to more popular brands like Rogue. They are manufactured using a gravity-cast molding process, resulting in a durable finish and a comfortable, smooth texture. These kettlebells will last, and the only reason you may need to replace them is if you wish to progress beyond 70 pounds.

Best Kettlebells on Amazon: Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell

Pros:

• Affordably priced
• Textured handle improves grip
• Free shipping for Prime members

Cons:

• The handle can be slippery
• Enamel coating can chip easily

If you prefer shopping on Amazon, the Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebells are a solid choice. While not as high-quality as premium brands like Rogue or Kettlebell Kings, they are still suitable for most full-body workouts at home.

These kettlebells are made with solid cast iron and coated with enamel, giving them a shiny, glossy appearance. However, the enamel coating can feel slippery when your hands start to sweat, despite the textured handle designed to mitigate this issue. The handle provides some grip, but it may not be as secure as a powder-coated kettlebell. Additionally, the enamel coating is susceptible to chipping.

The most attractive feature of the Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebells is their affordability. Starting at around $1.00 per pound, they are among the most budget-friendly options available. Prime members also benefit from free shipping, which can save you significant costs compared to other brands that charge hefty shipping fees.

Best Competition Kettlebells: Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebell

Pros:

• Single-cast construction ensures a stronger, sturdier bell
• Bright colors allow forquick weight identification
• Made with steel, offering enhanced durability
• Porous handle for better chalk absorption
• Lifetime warranty

For kettlebell sport athletes or those looking for competition-style kettlebells, the Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebells are the top choice. These kettlebells meet international competition specifications and are known for their durability.

Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebells are available in weights ranging from eight kilograms (18 pounds) to 48 kilograms (106 pounds). Regardless of the weight, each kettlebell has a 35-millimeter handle and the same size bell. This uniformity allows you to use the same technique regardless of the weight you choose. The weight is indicated by different colors, following a universal color coding system.

Similar to standard kettlebells, the Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebells have a flat base for stability during storage or exercise. The porous handle absorbs chalk effectively, providing a secure grip for both single- and double-handed kettlebell movements.

It’s important to note that the Kettlebell Kings Competition Kettlebells are more expensive due to their compliance with competition standards and their steel construction, which is more durable than cast iron. For recreational use or at-home workouts, any of the other kettlebells on this list will suffice.

How We Chose the Best Kettlebells

To compile our list of the best kettlebells, we conducted extensive research and analysis of various options available on the market. We considered kettlebells we have personally used in both home and commercial gym settings to provide comprehensive recommendations. Our selection includes options for both recreational users and competitive athletes, with a focus on wide weight ranges and varying price points to cater to different budgets.

Benefits of Training With Kettlebells

Kettlebells offer numerous benefits that make them an excellent choice for home workouts. They can be used for full-body strength or cardio routines and are interchangeable with dumbbells for most exercises. Some of the key benefits of kettlebell training include:

Versatility

Kettlebells are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises. You can incorporate them into full-body strength workouts or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions. Kettlebells can be used in place of dumbbells, offering similar exercise options. They are particularly effective for cardio workouts.

Explosive Power Development

Exercises like kettlebell swings and snatches are great for building explosive power. The combination of heavy weights and quick movements challenges your muscles to generate force rapidly, enhancing power development.

Grip Strength Improvement

Kettlebells typically have thicker handles compared to dumbbells, making them more challenging to grip. This places greater demand on your grip strength and forearm muscles, leading to improved grip strength over time.

Stabilizer Muscle Strengthening

Due to the kettlebell’s weight distribution, your smaller stabilizer muscles have to work harder to keep the bell stable during exercises. This provides a unique training stimulus that targets your stabilizer muscles to a greater extent than dumbbells or barbells.

Unilateral Movements

Many kettlebell exercises can be performed with one hand, allowing you to train each side of your body independently. This helps prevent strength imbalances and asymmetries. Even when holding a kettlebell in each hand, you still engage each side of your body separately, promoting balanced muscle development.

What to Look for When Buying Kettlebells

When purchasing kettlebells for your home gym, there are several important factors to consider in addition to cost. These factors include weight range, handle diameter and coating, and whether to opt for adjustable or fixed-weight kettlebells.

Price

The price of kettlebells can vary depending on factors such as materials, manufacturing location, intended use (competition or general workouts), and durability. Kettlebells typically range from $1.00 to $4.00 per pound, with higher weights usually costing more. It’s important to find a balance between affordability and quality. Cheaper kettlebells may be more prone to breakage or inaccurate weight listings, while higher-priced options often offer better durability and accuracy.

Adjustable vs. Fixed Weights

Kettlebells can be either adjustable or fixed-weight. Adjustable kettlebells offer the advantage of space-saving, as one unit provides access to multiple weights. However, the weight range of adjustable kettlebells is often more limited compared to fixed-weight kettlebells. Adjustable kettlebells are generally recommended for small spaces or those with limited budgets. Fixed-weight kettlebells, on the other hand, provide a broader weight range and are suitable for more advanced athletes.

Competition vs. Standard Kettlebells

Competition kettlebells are designed specifically for kettlebell sport athletes. They differ from standard kettlebells in several ways, including handle diameter, size uniformity, and manufacturing materials. If you do not plan to compete in kettlebell sport, standard kettlebells will suffice for your workouts. Standard kettlebells offer a wider range of handle diameters, increasing as the weight increases, while competition kettlebells have a fixed handle diameter and consistent size across all weights. Standard kettlebells are typically made of cast iron, while competition kettlebells are made of steel.

Available Weights

Kettlebells come in a wide range of weights, allowing you to choose the appropriate weight for your fitness level and goals. As a general guideline, women usually start with kettlebells weighing 18 to 26 pounds, while men start with kettlebells weighing 26 to 44 pounds. However, the weight you choose will depend on your experience level and training style. CrossFit workouts often prescribe 35-pound kettlebells for women and 53-pound kettlebells for men. Kettlebell sport competitions typically start with weights of eight kilograms for women and 16 kilograms for men.

Coating

Kettlebell coating affects both durability and grip. The two most common coatings are powder coating and enamel coating. Powder coating provides a matte finish, enhances grip, and offers some rust resistance. It is generally recommended for better grip and durability. Enamel coating, on the other hand, gives kettlebells a smooth, glossy appearance but can feel slippery when your hands sweat. Enamel coating is usually less expensive but may chip more easily. Consider your preferences and needs when selecting a coating type.

Handle Diameter

Handle diameter is an essential factor to consider, as it affects your comfort and performance during kettlebell exercises. Competition kettlebells have a fixed handle diameter that remains the same across all weights. Standard kettlebells usually have handle diameters that increase as the weight increases, although there is no uniform diameter among different brands. When holding a kettlebell, you should be able to wrap your fingers around the handle fully without excessive strain on your forearms. Ensure the handle diameter suits your hand size and comfort level to prevent early forearm fatigue.

BestKettlebell Exercises for Home Workouts

Kettlebells offer a wide range of exercise options for effective home workouts. Here are some of the best kettlebell exercises you can incorporate into your routine:

1. Kettlebell Swing: The kettlebell swing is a foundational kettlebell exercise that targets the posterior chain, including the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back. Start with a hip hinge movement and use your hips and glutes to generate power, swinging the kettlebell up to chest height.
2. Goblet Squat: The goblet squat is an excellent lower body exercise that targets the quads, glutes, and core. Hold the kettlebell with both hands against your chest and perform squats, ensuring your knees track over your toes and your chest stays lifted.
3. Kettlebell Clean: The kettlebell clean is a dynamic exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the shoulders, back, and core. Start with the kettlebell between your legs, hinge at the hips, and explosively extend your hips, pulling the kettlebell up to your shoulder while keeping your elbow close to your body.
4. Kettlebell Snatch: The kettlebell snatch is a full-body exercise that involves explosive hip power. Begin with the kettlebell between your legs and perform a clean, but continue the movement overhead, extending your arm and snapping your wrist to lock out the kettlebell.
5. Turkish Get-Up: The Turkish get-up is a complex exercise that targets multiple muscle groups and challenges stability. Start by lying on your back with the kettlebell in one hand. Perform a series of movements to stand up while keeping the kettlebell locked out overhead, then reverse the movements to return to the starting position.
6. Kettlebell Press: The kettlebell press targets the shoulders and arms. Hold the kettlebell at shoulder height with your palm facing inward. Press the kettlebell overhead while keeping your core engaged and your shoulder stable.
7. Kettlebell Row: The kettlebell row is a great exercise for the back and arms. Place one hand on a bench or other stable surface, hold the kettlebell in the opposite hand, and row it up towards your hip, squeezing your back muscles at the top of the movement.
8. Kettlebell Russian Twist: The kettlebell Russian twist targets the core muscles, including the obliques. Sit on the ground with your knees bent and feet lifted, holding the kettlebell with both hands. Twist your torso from side to side, touching the kettlebell to the ground on each side.

These exercises are just a starting point, and there are many more kettlebell exercises you can explore to add variety to your workouts. It’s essential to learn proper form and technique for each exercise to maximize effectiveness and minimize the risk of injury. Consider consulting a fitness professional or using reputable online resources to ensure you perform the exercises correctly.

Kettlebells vs. Dumbbells

When deciding between kettlebells and dumbbells for your home gym, it’s important to consider your specific needs and goals. Both kettlebells and dumbbells have their advantages and can be valuable additions to your workout routine. Here are some key factors to consider when comparing the two:

Weight Increments

Kettlebells and dumbbells have different weight increment options. Kettlebells typically increase in weight by four to nine pounds, depending on the brand, while dumbbells often have smaller increments, such as 2.5 to 5 pounds. If you require smaller weight increases to progress gradually, dumbbells may be more suitable. However, kettlebells can still provide a challenging workout, especially with dynamic exercises like swings and snatches.

Versatility

Both kettlebells and dumbbells offer versatility in terms of exercise options. However, kettlebells provide some unique exercises that are difficult to replicate with dumbbells due to their shape and weight distribution. Kettlebell swings, snatches, and Turkish get-ups are examples of exercises that specifically target different muscle groups and movement patterns. If you want to add variety and challenge to your workouts, kettlebells can offer more versatility.

Grip Strength

Kettlebells generally have thicker handles compared to dumbbells, which can increase the demand on your grip strength and forearm muscles. This makes kettlebell exercises effective for grip strength development. If grip strength is a priority for you, kettlebells may be a better choice.

Stabilizer Muscle Activation

Due to the unique shape and weight distribution of kettlebells, exercises performed with them engage stabilizer muscles to a greater extent compared to dumbbells. Stabilizer muscles work to keep the kettlebell balanced and stable during movements, providing an additional challenge. If you want to improve your stabilizer muscle strength and control, kettlebells can be beneficial.

Space and Cost Considerations

Consider the space available in your home gym and your budget when deciding between kettlebells and dumbbells. Kettlebells generally require less space since one kettlebell can provide a wide range of weights with an adjustable option. In contrast, a full set of dumbbells can take up more space. However, if you have the budget and space, having both kettlebells and dumbbells can offer more exercise variety and options.

Ultimately, the choice between kettlebells and dumbbells depends on your preferences, goals, and specific workout needs. Both can be effective tools for strength training and offer unique benefits. Consider your fitness level, the exercises you enjoy, and the space and budget available to make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

Kettlebells can be an excellent addition to any home gym setup. They offer a versatile and effective way to improve strength, cardio, and overall fitness. With their compact size and wide weight ranges, kettlebells are suitable for various fitness levels and workout styles.

When choosing a kettlebell, consider factors such as weight range, handle diameter and coating, and your specific budget and goals. Each kettlebell on our list has been carefully selected based on its quality, durability, and overall performance.

Remember to learn proper form and technique for kettlebell exercises to maximize their benefits and minimize the risk of injury. Consult reputable resources or seek guidance from a fitness professional if you’re new to kettlebell training.

Investing in a high-quality kettlebell will ensure you have a versatile and long-lasting fitness tool that can help you achieve your fitness goals in the comfort of your own home.