Skip to content 
This post contains affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of the links, at no cost to you.
So you’re ready to level up your workouts, and dive into kettle training. But as soon as you start looking into buying one, it’s like opening a giant can of confusion.
Cast iron or competition style?
Coated or uncoated?
Don’t sweat, we’ve got your back. This article we’re breaking down all the types, the pros and cons, and those little details you might not have even thought about.
By the end, you’ll be able to choose a kettlebell get swingin’. Let’s dive in!
The Anatomy Of A Kettlebell
Before we break down the different types of kettlebells you can buy, let’s get the basics down.
Think of a kettlebell like a car: each part has to work well for the whole thing to function. If you’ve got a flat tire or a dodgy engine, you’re not going far.
Just like you wouldn’t overlook any part of a car, understanding the anatomy of a kettlebell is crucial for ensuring you’re working out with something that’s effective, comfortable, and safe.
What Makes Up A Kettlebell?
First up, the handle is like the steering wheel—it’s where you grip and it’s gotta feel right in your hands.
The bell is the engine, the powerhouse you’ll be swinging and lifting.
The base is like the tires, needs to be stable when you put it down, especially during exercises that require balance like kettlebell push-ups or renegade rows.
Each component has its own role to play.
Materials And Weight
Now, the stuff that kettlebells are actually made of…
Most are either cast iron or steel.
Cast iron is your old-school, reliable pick; it’s typically cheaper but can vary in weight distribution.
Steel kettlebells are often used in competitions and have a more consistent size and weight distribution, which some folks prefer.
A poorly balanced kettlebell can make your swings feel awkward and mess with your form.
Whatever kettlebell you pick should feel solid and well-balanced in your hands.
Whether you’re swinging it, lifting it, or cursing at it mid-workout, you want a kettlebell that’s made of the right stuff and well-designed from handle to base.
Standard Kettlebells
These are your everyday, bread-and-butter kettlebells you’ll see in most gyms and stores.
Perfect for the novice looking to add some oomph to their workout routine. Standard kettlebells are the go-to for general fitness, and they come in two main types: cast iron and competition.
Let’s break each of ’em down.
Cast Iron Kettlebells
These bad boys are what you’ll commonly find in most gyms. They’re great for a variety of workouts—swings, goblet squats, snatches, you name it.
Pros: They’re usually cheaper and come in a range of weights, making them a solid pick for both newbies and seasoned lifters.
Cons: The weight distribution can be a bit off, and they’re not always uniform in size, which might throw you off if you’re switching between weights.
If you’re aiming for competition, these aren’t standardized for that.
Cast Iron Kettlebell Top Picks
Competition Kettlebells
These are the Ferraris of the kettlebell world, made for those who take their lifting seriously or are planning to compete.
One of the biggest differences is that they’re all the same size, regardless of weight. This means you can switch weights without affecting your technique.
On the upside, they usually have better weight distribution and are more durable, often made from steel.
The downside? Your wallet’s gonna feel it; they’re generally pricier. Because they’re built for competition standards, the handles tend to be a bit slimmer, which some folks find less comfortable for two-handed grips.
Competition Kettlebell Top Picks
Coated Kettlebells
Alright, so you’re zeroing in on the type of kettlebell you want. But, there’s one more thing to consider: to coat or not to coat?
Yep, kettlebells come in both coated and uncoated versions, and each has its own set of perks and quirks. The uncoated variation we’ve covered above, let’s dive into the coated versions.
Vinyl-Coated Kettlebells
Vinyl-coated kettlebells are like the considerate guests who use coasters—they’re less likely to scratch up your floors.
The vinyl coating is basically a layer of plastic that wraps around the kettlebell, offering some level of protection to both the bell and whatever surface it comes into contact with.
They usually come in fun colors, if you’re into that sort of thing.
There is a downside: over time, that coating can start to wear off, especially if you’re using the kettlebell a lot or storing it in a way that rubs against the coating.
Once it starts to peel or crack, it can become a bit of an eyesore and might even affect your grip.
Vinyl Coated Kettlebell Top Picks
Specialty Kettlebells
Maybe you’ve got a tiny apartment, or you’re just looking for something a bit more unique in your workout gear.
Specialty kettlebells might be a good fit for you. These are the somewhat quirky cousins of your standard kettlebells. While they might not be for everyone, they’ve got some features that could make them just the right fit for you.
Adjustable Kettlebells
Imagine having a whole set of kettlebells but in the space of just one.
That’s what you get with adjustable kettlebells. These clever gadgets let you change the weight by adding or removing plates, kinda like a dumbbell.
If you’re tight on space or on a budget, this could be your dream come true.
Here’s the downside: they’re generally not as durable as your traditional, one-piece kettlebells. The mechanism that holds the weights can wear out, and let’s be honest, they just don’t feel quite the same when you’re swinging them.
They’re fantastic for home gyms with limited space but maybe not the best if you’re going for the long haul.
Adjustable Kettlebell Top Picks
Soft Kettlebells
These are filled with sand or other soft material.
Why would you want one?
Well, if you’re worried about dropping a kettlebell and smashing your floor (or your toes), these offer a softer landing.
They’re also good for workouts where the kettlebell might come in contact with your body a lot, making for a more comfortable experience.
But here’s the downside: they’re less versatile. You probably won’t get the same weight options, and some traditional kettlebell moves might feel awkward.
While they might seem safer, you’re trading off some of the utility you’d get with a standard kettlebell.
Soft Kettlebell Top Picks
The Cool Down
We’ve broken down the different types, materials, and coatings kettlebells come in. Seems like a lot, but hey, knowledge is power, right?
The key takeaway here is that the best kettlebell for you depends on your individual needs, whether it’s the type of workouts you’re doing, the space you have, or the budget you’re working with.
Once you’ve made you’re selection, here’s a 4 Week Kettlebell Workout Plan with a BONUS: Pick 1 Eating Plan available above you can get started with!
FAQ: Clearing Up Any Kettlebell Confusion
Men often start with a 16-kg (35 lbs) kettlebell, while women usually start with an 8-kg (18 lbs) or 12-kg (26 lbs) kettlebell. But, this is just a general guideline. What movement you’re doing and your fitness and strength level will often be your deciding factor.
Both have their advantages. Physical stores let you get a feel for the weight and grip, while online stores often offer a wider range of options and possibly better prices. Just watch out for shipping fees if you’re buying online!
Adjustable kettlebells allow you to change the weight by adding or removing plates. They’re great for home gyms with limited space but may lack the durability and feel of traditional kettlebells.
