10 Best Kettlebells Tested
By Sarah Easterday
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If you are done with the issues of weightlifting at the gym, being watched and judged and having to wait to use half clean equipment, then we have just the solution for you: the kettlebell. A kettlebell is an intense home workout device intended to not only challenge the athlete but to push them to their limits. A kettlebell provides all the benefits of a trip to the gym with none of the money or hassle.
Kettlebells are a well-rounded choice for the athlete looking for gear that is not only effective but also easy to transport. Great for someone who wants to maintain their regiment from the office or on the road. No matter where you decide you want to do your reps, you will see the results that these can provide. Kettlebells are great for complimenting your normal running regimen for those winter months where your normal route may be inaccessible as well as great for strength training for that big race you have coming up.
- Rep Fitness Kettlebell
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Our rating - Durable
- Price: See Here
- Titan Fitness Cast Iron Kettlebell
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Our rating - Affordable
- Price: See Here
- CFF K2 Russian Kettlebell
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Our rating - Single Cast
- Price: See Here
Telling the quality of kettlebells apart can prove challenging, especially since they can appear so similar. That’s why this list is perfect for helping you come to a decision on the best bell. It doesn’t matter if you are looking into trying kettlebells for the first time or if you want to expand your collection, we are sure you will find a kettlebell that will fit your needs just right.
12 Best Kettlebells
1. Rep Fitness
This kettlebell is available in a wide variety of weights. You can choose from 2.2 pounds all the way up to 106 pounds. They conform to the weights used in CrossFit workouts.
Additional Info
The Rep Fitness Kettlebell has color coded rings at the base of the handles, so you can identify the weight. A matte powder coating is what gives this kettlebell its superior grip. With glossy enamel, your grip is not going to be as secure and the coating can often cause cuts on your hands. Before leaving the factory, each and every kettlebell is hand-inspected to ensure you’re receiving the best quality possible.
Cost
The Rep Fitness Kettlebell is priced slightly on the high end, especially for the lower weigh versions. A 90 day warranty is issued with purchase.
- Marked in both pounds and kilograms
- Firm grip
- Single-cast for maximum durability
- Smooth handles
- Wide range of weights available
- Some customers find that the black paint chips off easily
2. Titan Fitness
This kettlebell weighs 30 pounds.
Additional Info
A natural slip-free texture with a seamless finish makes it comfortable to hold and eliminates any chance of skin irritation. The handle measures 1.5 inches, which is pretty wide compared to other models. This makes it a breeze easy to hold. The bottom is perfectly flat, making it super simple to store.
Cost
Considering its weight of 30 pounds, this kettlebell is pretty inexpensive.
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Durable
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Cast iron
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Slip free texture
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Versatile
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Wide handle
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Price
- A few customers have reported issues with durability
3. CFF K2
The CFF K2 Powder Coated Russian Kettlebell is available in weights from 4kg to 32kg.
Additional Info
A matte powder coating gives the CFF K2 kettlebell superior grip in comparison to models with glossy enamel. Its flat bottom makes it perfect for exercises such as renegade rows; as well as making it easy to store. Since it’s made from one solid cast, there are no welds, meaning it’s super smooth with no sharp bits that could hurt your hands.
Cost
This is one of the more expensive brands on the list. However, a limited lifetime warranty is included.
- Chip-resistant
- Matte finish
- Made from one solid cast
- Superior grip
- Warranty
- Flat bottom
- No welds
- Price
- Marked in kilograms rather than pounds
4. CAP Barbell
The CAP Barbell Enamel Coated Kettlebell is available in weights from 10 to 80 pounds.
Additional Info
This kettlebell is made of solid cast iron and is one of the highest quality models on the list. It’s designed to hold up against wear and tear, and its handles are reinforced with steel for extra durability.
Cost
The CAP Barbell Enamel Coated Kettlebell is priced in the mid-to-high range. Additionally, a limited 30-day manufacturer’s warranty is included.
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Solid cast iron
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Warranty
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Versatile
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Durable
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Handles reinforced with steel
- Some find that the paint chips easily
- Some find that the enamel finish makes it difficult to grip
5. Yes4All
This kettlebell is available in weights from 5 to 80 pounds.
Additional Info
Since it’s made from a single cast, there are no welds, weak spots, or seams. In addition to durability, this means that it’s comfortable to grip. A black paint finish coats the kettlebell to prevent corrosion and give you a better grip. The wide handle is slightly textured, which makes chalk unnecessary for most people. The flat bottom makes upright storage super simple, as well as being great for exercises that require a flat-bottomed kettlebell.
Cost
This kettlebell is priced averagely in comparison to other brands.
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Durable
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Solid cast iron
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No welds or seams
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Superior grip
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Slightly textured handle
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Versatile
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Flat bottom
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Available in a wide range of weights
- Some find that the handle can have rough edges
6. Sunny Health & Fitness Vinyl Coated
This kettlebell is available in weights ranging from 5 to 25 pounds.
Additional Info
The handles are designed to be incredibly smooth, so you can use your kettlebell comfortably and have good grip. It’s vinyl-coated for an extra layer of protection.
Cost
This is one of the most affordable kettlebells on this list.
- Variety of colors to choose from
- Vinyl coated for extra protection
- Smooth handle
- Great grip
- Solid cast iron
- Price
- Some find that the handles are too small
- Not a wide variety of weights to choose from
7. Yes4All Single Vinyl Coated
The Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell is available in weights ranging from 5 to 45 pounds.
Additional Info
Made of durable cast iron, this kettlebell is vinyl-coated to prevent it from rusting. Additionally, the vinyl reduces noise and protects your floor from being damaged when you set the kettlebell down. With handles that are wide and textured, this kettlebell fits most hand sizes perfectly and provides you with great grip. Its flat bottom makes it perfect for renegade rows and mounted pistol squats, as well as making storage a breeze.
Cost
This kettlebell is priced in the low-to-mid range.
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Durable
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Wide textured handle
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Vinyl-coated
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Cast iron
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Anti-rusting
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Flat bottom
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Solid steel handle
- Some find that the handles cause calluses
8. SPRI Deluxe Vinyl
The SPRI Deluxe Vinyl Kettlebell, color-coded by weight, is available in weights ranging from 5 to 50 pounds.
Additional Info
This kettlebell’s handles are wide and are designed for a comfortable and secure grip. It’s encased in a durable vinyl coating which is great for preventing floor damage.
Cost
This kettlebell is priced in the mid-range.
- Color-coded by weight
- Durable
- Vinyl-coated to protect floors
- Comfortable handles
- Great grip
- Versatile
- Some find the handle to be too small
9. Body Solid Iron
Additional Info: This kettlebell has handles that are reinforced for durability. The heavier models have extra-wide handles. Its flat bottom makes it perfect for a huge range of exercise as well as making storage easy. A smooth finish ensures comfort.
Cost: The Body Solid Iron Kettlebells are one of the most affordable models on the list. Additionally, they come with a 2 year guarantee.
- Flat bottom
- Price
- Durable
- Wide variety of weights available
- Handles are steel reinforced
- Some find that this kettlebell can have rough edges
- Some find that the enamel chips easily
10. Rocketlok Adjustable
This kettlebell is available in two different weight ranges: 14-20 pounds and 24-36 pounds. For the 14-20 model, the weight settings are 14, 17, and 20 pounds. For the 24-36 model, the weight settings are 24, 28, 32, and 36 pounds.
Additional Info
The body of this kettlebell is made of cast steel, and the weighted interior cylinders are solid steel. To adjust the weight, simply remove the plastic locking cap and add or remove one of the steel cylinders. No tools are required. This kettlebell’s shape ensures that your balance and center of gravity remain consistent throughout your whole workout.
Cost
Considering this kettlebell is adjustable, you’re definitely getting your money’s worth.
- Price
- Compact
- Adjustable weights
- Available in two different weight ranges
- Solid cast steel.
- Smooth handle.
- Some find the locking mechanism to be tough to operate at times
11 RKC Dragon Door
Durable and good quality cast iron at the core with a nice metallic finishing and secure grips to ensure hold, this kettlebell can be used for a very extensive selection of work-outs.
You get a good choice for various weights from 14 pounds through and up to 106 pounds. Something for everyone from beginners to professionals.
Additional Info
These kettlebells are coated with a durable protective coating, making them chip & rust proofed, so even after a lot of use you do not get stains or marks on your hands.
The design of these kettlebells ensures that they fit firmly for a hand grip.
Cost
These cost a little more and are a secure durable very long-term investment.
Good choice of different weight levels.
Great for a broad range of workouts
Coated to prevent rusting and discarding paint chips
A few people prefer a lower budget
12. ONNIT
This ONNIT kettlebell is available for 36lbs, but they do have other styles available at different weight amounts.
Additional Info
This kettlebells handles are made extra large and thick for a surer, firmer grip. The ONNIT is constructed from scratch and chip resistant iron.
Cost
The ONNIT kettlebells are a bit pricier but with their high-quality construction, balanced design and fun appearance many say they are well worth the price.
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Scratch and chip resistant
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Looks good and well detailed
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Well balanced
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Well constructed from iron
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Nice thick handles
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Face can get in the way of some exercises
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Expensive
Feel the strength return to your shoulders, stomach, legs, arms, and back muscles while toughening up and decreasing the potential for musculoskeletal aches and pains, think of getting double results in half the time it would take in a gym, develop a tough positive mental attitude as you are spurred on by the great benefits which you will feel. The design of the kettlebell means that it is very versatile to use and allows you to use training methods which are not used with standard dumbells, great many new training methods while targeting specific body areas or your entire body.
When you invest in a piece of home equipment such as a kettlebell you get a home training aid with has unquestionable long-term durability and this is truly value for money.
Criteria for Picking out Kettlebells for Athletes.
Kettlebells are one of the sporting equipment that is used by athletes who are involved in intense sporting activities. When looking or shopping for a kettlebell, you will notice that there are two kinds of kettlebells. We have the cast iron type of kettlebells and the competition type of kettlebells. The competition type is also known as prograde kettlebells. They are more common among athletes who are involved in Girevoy sporting activities. On the other hand, cast iron ones are more frequent among trainers whose objective is just to be physically fit.
So what are the major differences between the two types of kettlebells?
Differences in Size
The competition or prograde bells have a uniform size despite the difference in weight. Well, this is to make sure that the lifting technique used by the athletes will not be varied as the athletes get stronger and the sporting activity intensifies. These bells have a weight range of between 8kg – 40 kg. All the bells in this category have similar dimensions and size, and all of them must be able to follow the standards that have been officially set.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position of the bell in the rack is also changed with each different size.
The difference in Handle Thickness:
The Pro bells or Competition bells tend to be made with thin handles. The reason behind this is the fact that the athletes involved in the bells sporting activities, tend to perform rep sets that are very high. This exercise means that the forearm muscles will be fatigued and they are the muscles used in gripping the bell. In order to have a longer grip that will last, athletes need to opt for handles that are thinner. The handles are designed and made to make sure there are minimal chances of the bell slipping out of the hand of the athlete.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position of the bell in the rack is also changed with each different size. This means that the size of the handle also increases in proportion to the size, bigger bells have bigger handles.
Differences in the Type of Material in Construction & the type of Construction
The competition ones are made and constructed using steel that is one cast. Steel is one of the most durable materials used in making the bells; it even has higher durability than the cast iron. If you want a bell that is made from iron make sure it’s made from one cast, but then most iron bells are not made form one cast. A clear look into the bells will show you that the handles of the bells are welded onto the bell’s body.
When picking out the best, bells we focused on the below factors when doing the reviews.
The Handle Grip of the Kettle Bell.
This refers to the grip that the athlete has on the bells when using it. The grip of the bell is determined by the below factors which are very crucial in making sure the athlete has a good grip and the bell won’t slip from his/ her hand when they are using the bells.
- The Flashing/ Handle Seam
This is the casting process of the kettlebell. The process tends to leave behind a flashing/ seam. The seam occurs along the middle underside section of the handle of the bell. The seam must be filed down prior to the kettlebell being finished or coated, in order to achieve a hold on, on the surface that is even and nice. Be cautious of cheaper models of the kettlebell as they will still have the sharp seam and this will prove to be dangerous to the athletes’ hands and might even cause bleeding during the casting process.
Make sure that before you purchase your preferred kettlebell, it has no flashing (flashing is removed). Slowly run your hands entirely around the whole handle of the bell, more focus should be placed on the underneath section. This should not be a big issue for bells that are manufactured by companies with a good reputation like the ones we have listed in our top 10 list.
- The Handle Diameter of the Bell
The diameter of the bell handle will totally be determined by the size of the athletes’ hands. The two totally depend on each other, that’s why it’s good to look at the handle’s diameter before making a purchase. Most of the companies that make kettlebells tend not to publish this number on the packaging and websites, but then some companies will have the number posted. The decent bells will have their handle diameters that start from about 30-31 mm, and then they have a maximum of 38 mm for kettlebells that are heaviest. But then the cheap bells will mostly have handles that are narrower. These handles are almost impossible to hold on when an athlete is swinging the bell and are pathetic when it comes to snatching.
The standard bells have handles that get thicker when the weight increases. The Pro bells or Competition bells tend to be made with thin handles. The reason behind this is the fact that the athletes involved in the bells sporting activities, tend to perform rep sets that are very high. This exercise means that the forearm muscles will be fatigued and they are the muscles used in gripping the bell. In order to have a longer grip that will last, athletes need to opt for handles that are thinner. The handles are designed and made to make sure there are minimal chances of the bell slipping out of the hand of the athlete. They tend to be more expensive and are the best option for athletes looking for consistency.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position of the bell in the rack is also changed with each different size. This means that the size of the handle also increases in proportion to the size, bigger bells have bigger handles.
The idea here is focusing away from kettlebells that have handles that are cheaper and more skinny. That is why it’s important to get your kettlebell from a reliable store.
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The width of the Handle
For effective movements, when using the bells, an athlete will need to make sure that both of their hands can comfortably fit perfectly within the bell’s handle, not very tight or very uncomfortable for the athlete. Remember that for some bells, the handle will get wider with an increase of the bell’s weight.
The Pro bells or Competition bells tend to be made with thin handles. The reason behind this is the fact that the athletes involved in the bells sporting activities, tend to perform rep sets that are very high. This exercise means that the forearm muscles will be fatigued and they are the muscles used in gripping the bell. In order to have a longer grip that will last, athletes need to opt for handles that are thinner. The handles are designed and made to make sure there are minimal chances of the bell slipping out of the hand of the athlete. They tend to be more expensive and are the best option for athletes looking for consistency. However, make sure the opening of the handle is spacious enough for your hands.
- The Type of Handle Finish
The kettlebells have few different types of finishes when looking t the handle finishes. These options and types are bare steel, vinyl, enamel and powder coating. The powder coating type is more common among the standard bells like those from Rogue. They are perfect for holding chalk when an athlete is training on long sets. While the bare steel will be found on the competition bells’ handles. The enamel finish is also fine, while the vinyl isn’t much preferred its still found on bells that are of low quality.
The Construction Type of the Kettlebell
The construction type of kettlebells are typically of 2 types: the 1 piece casting or the 2 piece assemble type. The 2 piece type involves attachment of the bell’s handle to the bells’ round part, the only challenge is that when compared to the 1 piece type, they are not strong and they are also less secure.
The Base of the Kettlebell
For instance, if an athlete intends to perform any movements which use the bell as the ground fixture similar to the handstands, pistols quotes that are mounted or renegade rows. They will opt for a kettlebell that has a bottom that is completely flat. Though bells of high quality have the best base. While the cheaper ones have issues sitting on the ground with a flush, they tend to wobble a lot. You can check this when making a physical purchase but then if you are making an online purchase then it’s good to read the customer reviews of the bell before purchasing it.
The Stated Weight of the Kettle Bell.
The competition or prograde bells have a uniform size despite the difference in weight. Well, this is to make sure that the lifting technique used by the athletes will not be varied as the athletes get stronger and the sporting activity intensifies. These bells have a weight range of between 8kg – 40 kg. All the bells in this category have similar dimensions and size, and all of them must be able to follow the standards that have been officially set.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position of the bell in the rack is also changed with each different size.
Other factors that were considered During Our Search
Kettle Bells for Different Genders.
Bells for different genders are little different, depending on the features. They also vary in size.
- Woman’s Kettlebell and Sizes
Unlike the male athletes, the female athletes will start out training with a more light kettlebell; sometimes it can be very light! Though female athletes should not fear the heavier bells. This is because the bells will not make them bigger or grow bulkier; neither will it get rid of their feminine curves. However, with the correct training and fitness dedication, a female athlete will be able to meet their fitness objectives. Female athletes should know that the heavier bells are easy to use once they know how to unlock the power that is focused on their hips.
For more ballistic movements similar to swinging a kettlebell, cleans & snatches for the average female beginner athlete who is active. They should start with a bell weighing between 18lb (8kg) and 26lb (12kg). A female athlete ought to begin training with a bell weighing between 26lb (12kg) and 35lb (16kg), while the females who are out of shape should go for kettlebells that have a weight range of 13lb (6kg) and 18lb (8kg)
- Kettlebell Sizes for Men
Most men have a misinformed habit of always starting their training with kettlebells that are bigger for them. This turns out to be dangerous since most of the time these guys realize that they are not as strong as they assumed. Men should take our professional advice and avoid buying bells that are too heavy for them to handle.
For more ballistic movements similar to swinging a kettlebell, cleans & snatches for the average male beginner athlete who is active. They should start with a bell weighing between 35lb (16kg) and 44lb (20kg). A male athlete ought to begin training with a bell weighing between 35lb (16kg) and 53lb (24kg). To the male athletes who weigh 250lbs and they have a long history of lifting weights, they can opt for any size of the kettlebells that they feel physically comfortable enough to handle. But then to the guys who are not active in sports and considers themselves to be not in shape should stick to bells that weigh from 26lb (12kg).
Durability of the Kettle Bells
The Steel bells are deemed to be the strongest and considered to be close to being indestructible. This does not mean that they are immune to factors like rust, so in case they are being used outdoors it’s good to use sandpaper to keep the rust away. The cast iron pones will last long even though they are not as hard as the steel bells. They will only last longer if they are not dropped on to very hard surfaces from large heights. The vinyl and plastic ones are not best when it comes to durability. Their construction material tends to wear out faster and their continuous refilling will make them have a faster tear and wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the frequently asked questions by athletes when they are shopping for the best kettlebells for their training.
Q. What is the ideal kettlebell for women?
A. The world of athletics is heavily separated by gender. Gear, clothing, weight specifics, most things within the world of running. Frankly, the difference between this two sides, if any, is size. Usually, weight-specific workout gear that is marketed towards women, like kettlebells, will be at a lower weight. So if you find yourself in need of a lower weight tier, say because you are overcoming a long-term injury or your upper body strength just happens to be lower, than a smaller weight kettlebell is recommended. Many people will choose too high of a weight for themselves as it goes, so we recommend starting smaller or trying out a few in store so you have a proper idea of what your limits are.
On the other hand if you heavier weights work better for you than go for it. Athletics is all about challenging yourself. And don’t let concerns about “becoming unfeminine” hold you back. The idea that you will lose your feminine body is a common exercise myth. You would need to purposely choose a bulking exercise routine in order to alter your body type drastically and simply choosing heavier weights is not enough to cause this effect.
Q.What is the ideal kettlebell for men?
A. The idea that men require a different set of weight than women is an old myth that leads to a lot of harmful choices for male athletes. Many men choose weight amounts above their limits because it has been pressed upon them that they need to go as heavy as possible to achieve an efficient workout, and this simply isn’t true.
You can easily assess the level of weight that would be comfortable for you in a couple of ways. Going in store to test the kettlebells in the easiest and most accurate way of going about this. If you can’t get to the kettlebells you want to try, then find other weight lifting devices or gear you can sample to get an idea of your weight limit.
If you have reasons for choosing a lower weight limit, be it for long-term illness or injury or simply because you do not have that level of strength, there is nothing wrong with that. Training is just as much about building as it is maintaining. If your goal is to get to another level, that is something you can do at your own pace. There is no need to strain yourself and risk injury.
Q. What are the materials used in the construction of the Kettlebells?
A. The competition ones are made and constructed using steel that is one cast. Steel is one of the most durable materials used in making the bells; it even has higher durability than the cast iron. If you want a bell that is made from iron make sure it’s made from one cast, but then most iron bells are not made form one cast. A clear look into the bells will show you that the handles of the bells are welded onto the bell’s body.
The Steel bells are deemed to be the strongest and considered to be close to being indestructible. This does not mean that they are immune to factors like rust, so in case they are being used outdoors it’s good to use sandpaper to keep the rust away. The cast iron pones will last long even though they are not as hard as the steel bells. They will only last longer if they are not dropped on to very hard surfaces from large heights. The vinyl and plastic ones are not best when it comes to durability. Their construction material tends to wear out faster and their continuous refilling will make them have a faster tear and wear.
Q. What are the types of kettlebells available in the market?
A. There are two primary types of kettlebells available on the market. The kettlebells made for competition lifting are known as prograde kettlebells. Competitive kettlebell lifting, also known as Girevoy, uses a special type of bells built for endurance strength building. The other type of kettlebell is the cast iron variety. These type of kettlebells are favored by physical trainers for general fitness training and the like.
Q. What are the major difference between competition bells and the cast iron bells?
A. The major differences between the two types of kettlebells are:
- Difference in Size:
The competition or prograde bells have a uniform size despite the difference in weight. Well this is to make sure that the lifting technique used by the athletes will not be varied as the athletes gets stronger and the sporting activity intensifies. These bells have a weight range of between 8kg – 40 kg. All the bells in this category have similar dimensions and size, and all of them must be able to follow the standards that have been officially set.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position of the bell in the rack is also changed with each different size.
- The difference in Handle Thickness:
The Pro bells or Competition bells tend to be made with thin handles. The reason behind this is the fact that the athletes involved in the bells sporting activities, tend to perform rep sets that are very high. This exercise means that the forearm muscles will be fatigued and they are the muscles used in gripping the bell. In order to have a longer grip that will last, athletes need to opt for handles that are thinner. The handles are designed and made to make sure there are minimal chances of the bell slipping out of the hand of the athlete.
While the cast iron type, have a good trend, as the size gets bigger and bigger, they gain more weight. With these changes, the lifting groove of the kettlebell also changes. Apart from that the sitting position in the rack is also changed with each different size. This means the size of the handle also increases in proportion to the size, bigger bells have bigger handles.
- Difference in the Type of Material in Construction & the type of Construction
The competition ones are made and constructed using steel that is one cast. Steel is one of the most durables materials used in making the bells; it even has higher durability than the cast iron. If you want a bell that is made from iron make sure it’s made from one cast , but then most iron bells are not made form one cast. A clear look into the bells will show you that the handles of the bells are welded onto the bell’s body.
We hope the list above assists you in choosing which kettlebell is the perfect one for you. Remember to take all factors into consideration when making your decision, and always do your research.
Here are some sources we used while conducting our research
Below are the reliable sources we used in conducting our review and research of the best kettlebells for our athletes.
Sources
- , What is the Best Kettlebell Weight to Start With? , Fitness Website,
- , Getting Started with Kettlebells: How to Buy, Learn & Train, Fitness Website,
- , The Beginners Guide to Kettlebell Training, Fitness Website,
- , The Best Kettlebell for Home Fitness,
- , What Size Kettlebell is Right for Me?,
- , What Size Kettlebell Should I Buy?,
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