What Kettlebells To Buy

If you’re wondering what kettlebells to buy, you’re in the right place. Choosing your first kettlebell or expanding your collection can be confusing with so many options. This guide will help you pick the perfect ones for your goals and budget.

Let’s break down the main types of kettlebells available. Each has it’s pros and cons depending on your training style.

Types of Kettlebells: Material and Build

Kettlebells come in a few primary materials. The most common are cast iron, vinyl-coated, and competition style.

Cast Iron: These are the classic, often least expensive option. They have a painted or enamel finish. The handle size and window (the hole) can vary between brands, which affects grip comfort.
Vinyl or Rubber-Coated: Great for home gyms because they protect floors. The coating can make the handle thicker, which might be a problem for people with smaller hands.
Competition Kettlebells: These are all the same size and shape regardless of weight. They have a slimmer handle and are color-coded. They’re precision-made for kettlebell sport lifts like the snatch and jerk.

Choosing Your First Weight

Starting with the right weight is crucial. Too light and you won’t get stronger; too heavy and you risk injury. Here’s a simple guide based on common goals.

For General Fitness & Swings: Men often start with a 16kg (35lb) or 20kg (44lb). Women frequently begin with a 12kg (26lb) or 16kg. You should be able to perform swings with good form for multiple sets.
For Overhead Presses & Grinds: You’ll need a lighter bell. Men might use 12kg or 16kg. Women might start with 8kg (18lb) or 12kg. The key is to press it overhead without straining your back or shoulders.
For Beginners New to Strength Training: Err on the side of lighter. A 8kg or 12kg bell is excellent for learning the fundamental movements safely.

What About Adjustable Kettlebells?

Adjustable kettlebells are a space-saving solution. They let you change the weight by adding or removing plates inside a shell. They can be cost-effective if you’re buying multiple weights at once. However, the feel and handle dimensions are different from traditional bells, which some purists don’t prefer.

Building a Starter Set

You don’t need a full rack to begin. A well-chosen pair or trio will cover 90% of workouts. Here is a sensible progression plan.

Step 1: The All-Rounder. Buy one kettlebell based on your swing weight from the guide above. This is your foundation bell for swings, goblet squats, and deadlifts.
Step 2: The Pressing Pair. Add a second, lighter bell for overhead work, cleans, and carries. This allows you to train each arm evenly.
Step 3: The Step-Up. Once your all-rounder feels light for swings, purchase the next weight up (e.g., from 16kg to 24kg). This keeps your strength progressing.

Key Features to Check Before Buying

Not all kettlebells are created equal. Pay close attention to these details, especially when ordering online.

Handle Finish: It should be smooth, not rough or gritty. A rough handle will tear up your hands. Some brands have a powder-coated handle for better grip.
Handle Window: Make sure there’s enough space for two hands to fit comfortably for swings. The inside of the handle should be smooth with no seem lines that could cause blisters.
Flat Base: A stable, flat bottom is essential for exercises where you set the bell down, like renegade rows or Turkish get-ups. Wobbly bases are annoying and unsafe.
Weight Accuracy: Reputable brands ensure the weight is accurate. Cheaper, off-brand kettlebells can sometimes be significantly off, which throws of your training.

Where to Shop and What to Spend

You can find kettlebells at sporting goods stores, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces. Prices vary widley.

Budget-Friendly: Big-box store brands are fine for basic cast iron bells. Just inspect the handle finish carefully. This is a good route for your first single bell.
Mid-Range & Quality: Brands like Rogue, Kettlebell Kings, and Rep Fitness offer excellent quality control, consistent handles, and good durability. This is the sweet spot for most serious home gym users.
Premium/Competition: Brands like Kettlebell Sport or Pro Kettlebell are the choice for competitive athletes. They are an investment but offer perfect consistency.

Remember, a good kettlebell can last a lifetime. It’s often worth spending a bit more for better quality, especially on your primary weights.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s look at some frequent errors people make so you can skip them.

Buying a Set of Matching Weights: It seems logical, but you don’t need matching pairs of every weight. You’ll use different weights for different exercises. Start with two different sizes as suggested.
Ignoring Handle Comfort: That great deal online might have a terrible handle. If possible, try before you buy, or stick to brands with known good handle design.
Starting Too Heavy: Ego lifting with kettlebells leads to bad form and injury. Master the movement patterns with a manageable weight first. Its better for long-term progress.
Forgetting About Space: While they don’t take up much room, think about where you’ll store and use them. A coated bell is kinder to floors and other equipment.

FAQ: Your Kettlebell Questions Answered

What size kettlebell should a beginner start with?
For men, a 16kg is a common starting point for swings. For women, a 12kg is often recommended. Always choose a lighter weight for overhead exercises.

Are kettlebells worth buying for home gyms?
Absolutely. They are incredibly space-efficient and versatile. You can get a full-body workout with just one or two bells.

How many kettlebells do I really need?
You can achieve alot with just one. For balanced training, two different weights (e.g., a 16kg and a 12kg) is ideal. A collection of 3-4 bells will cover years of strength progression.

What’s the difference between a hardstyle and competition kettlebell?
Hardstyle (like most cast iron bells) are often thicker and designed for powerful, explosive moves. Competition bells are uniform in size, with a slimmer handle, for endurance-based sport lifts.

Can I use dumbbells instead of kettlebells?
For some exercises, yes. But the unique offset center of mass of a kettlebell is essential for proper swing, clean, and snatch technique. They are not perfectly interchangeable.

Is it better to buy one heavy kettlebell or two lighter ones?
Start with one medium bell for two-handed moves and a lighter one for single-arm work. Two lighter bells are useful for double kettlebell exercises later on, but aren’t a priority for beginners.

Final thought: The best kettlebells to buy are the ones you will use consistently. Prioritize handle comfort and appropriate weight over everything else. With a good selection, you’ll have a tool that serves your fitness for decades to come.