What Are Kettlebells Made Of

If you’re new to fitness, you might wonder what are kettlebells made of. The material affects the feel, price, and durability of your workout. This guide breaks down the common materials so you can choose the right one for your goals and budget.

Modern kettlebells are crafted from a few primary materials, each with distinct characteristics. The classic option is cast iron, but you’ll also find steel, vinyl-coated, and even concrete options. Your choice depends on where you’ll use it and the type of training you plan to do.

Cast Iron: The Traditional Standard

This is the most common material for kettlebells you see in gyms and stores. They are made by pouring molten iron into a mold. The process is cost-effective, which makes these bells very affordable.

Here’s what you can expect from cast iron kettlebells:

Texture: They have a rough, slightly textured finish that provides good grip. However, they can feel harsh on your hands during high-rep sets.
Construction: Many are a single piece of cast iron. Others have a handle welded to the ball, which can be a weak point over time.
Care: Cast iron can rust if left in a damp garage or outdoors. A little surface rust isn’t a big problem, but you should wipe them down after use.

Enamel-Coated Cast Iron

These start as standard cast iron bells but get a colored enamel coating. This layer gives them a sleek look and adds some protection against rust. The coating is usually quite durable, but it can chip if you bang the bells together aggressively.

Competition-Grade Steel

If you’re into kettlebell sport or precise technique, you’ll likely use steel competition kettlebells. They are made from solid steel and have a uniform size regardless of weight. This allows for consistent form.

All competition bells have the same physical dimensions. A 12kg bell is the same size as a 32kg bell.
The handle is thinner and smoother than on cast iron, which is better for long cycle sets.
They are more expensive due to the material and precision manufacturing required.

Why the Size Consistency Matters

For competitive lifters, a predictable bell size is crucial. Your swing and clean mechanics don’t have to adjust as you move up in weight. This lets you focus purely on power and endurance. The smooth steel handle also reduces friction on your hands.

Vinyl or Rubber-Coated Kettlebells

These are often found in commercial gyms or for home use where floor protection is a concern. They typically have a cast iron core encased in a thick rubber or vinyl shell.

Key benefits include:

Floor Protection: The soft coating prevents damage to hardwood or tile floors if you need to set the bell down hard.
Color Coding: Different weights are often different colors, making them easy to identify from a distance.
Softer Feel: The coating can make the bell easier to grip for some people, though it can sometimes feel bulky.

Other Less Common Materials

You might also encounter kettlebells made from concrete or plastic. Concrete bells are usually a DIY or ultra-budget option, but they are fragile and not recommended for serious training. Plastic sand-filled bells exist but lack the density and solid feel needed for proper ballistic movements like swings.

How to Choose the Right Material for You

Picking a kettlebell material isn’t to complicated. Just consider these three factors: your training environment, your experience level, and your budget.

For Home Gyms (especially on hard floors): Vinyl-coated are a safe bet to protect your floors. Just ensure the coating is secure and doesn’t have a strong odor.

For Beginners on a Budget: A basic cast iron kettlebell is perfect. Start with one weight and learn the fundamentals. The rough texture will actually help build grip strength.

For Technique-Focused or Sport Training: Invest in a steel competition kettlebell. The consistent size and handle feel are worth the higher cost if you’re serious about your practice.

Understanding Handle Construction

The material of the ball is important, but the handle is where you connect with the bell. A poorly made handle can ruin a good kettlebell.

Seams: Cast iron bells often have a mold seam running down the handle. A quality bell will have this seam ground down smooth. Always run your hand along the handle before buying to check for rough spots.
Welds: On some cheaper cast iron models, the handle is welded to the body. Inspect this weld for cracks or unevenness, as it’s a potential failure point.
Finish: Handles can be bare, painted, or powder-coated. A bare steel or iron handle will develop a natural patina from your hands, which can improve grip over time.

Caring for Your Kettlebell Based on Its Material

Proper care extends the life of your equipment. Here’s a simple guide:

Cast Iron (Bare): Keep it dry. If rust spots appear, scrub them with a wire brush and apply a light coat of mineral oil.
Enamel or Coated: Wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could strip the coating. Check for chips and touch them up with paint if needed to prevent rust underneath.
Steel Competition Bells: These are low-maintenance. A dry cloth wipe-down is usually sufficient. Some lifters use light sandpaper on the handle to maintain their preferred level of smoothness.
Vinyl/Rubber: Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight for long periods, as UV rays can degrade the coating over the years.

FAQ: Your Kettlebell Material Questions Answered

Are all kettlebells made of iron?
No, while cast iron is the most popular, they are also made from steel, concrete, and have vinyl or rubber coatings. The best material depends on your use.

What is the difference between hardstyle and competition kettlebell materials?
Hardstyle kettlebells, used in traditional strength training, are often cast iron. Competition kettlebells are always solid steel and have uniform dimensions. The steel allows for the precise size and handle needed for sport.

Do coated kettlebells last as long as plain cast iron?
Generally, yes. The coating protects the iron from moisture, which can prevent rust. However, if the coating chips or cracks, rust can form in that spot and spread if not treated. Plain cast iron is simpler to maintain if you don’t mind the occasional bit of rust removal.

Can I use my cast iron kettlebell outside?
You can, but it’s not ideal if you leave it out. Rain and humidity will cause it to rust quickly. If you train outdoors, bring your bell inside afterwards. A coated bell would be a slightly better option for outdoor use.

Why are some kettlebells so much more expensive?
Price reflects material and manufacturing. Dense steel costs more than cast iron. Precision machining for competition bells adds cost. A well-finished handle that’s ground smooth also requires more labor. A cheap bell often has a rough handle seam that can tear your hands.

Choosing the right kettlebell comes down to understanding these materials. Think about where you’ll train and what feels good in your hand. A well-made bell, regardless of material, can last you a lifetime of training with proper care. Now you have the knowledge to pick the perfect one for your journey.