Best Kettlebells For Durability & Versatility (Updated 2021)

These best kettlebells for bodybuilding are perfect for kettlebell training to promote durability and versatility.

Kettlebells are great training tools to enhance durability and versatility and these best kettlebells for bodybuilding are exactly what you need. Whether it be for your home gym or to use in the gym, these are simple and convenient tools perfect for enhancing gains. These best kettlebells for home workouts can greatly improve not only strength and size but also power and endurance, leaving you with a complete set of performance tools. With an increased focus on kettlebell training, those performance goals are right around the corner.

We’ve put together a list of the Best Kettlebells For 2021 to give you great options to boost your kettlebell training and at-home workouts. The right equipment can give you the best when it comes to results and these kettlebells can do just that.

Best Kettlebells For 2021

---

Best Kettlebell Overall

Finding the right kettlebell to tackle all of your needs may seem challenging but it is absolutely possible. With the right material and a quality process backing it, a durable kettlebell with a great grip can really boost all your strength and endurance gains.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells

These kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are amazing for promoting better grip for safer and more effective workouts, overall protection of the iron for durability and longevity, and a promise from an amazing company in Kettlebell Kings. Each kettlebell is made from a single piece of cast iron so the handle remains intact and each is color-coded so you know exactly what amount you’re using. The powder coat ensures a solid grip for no slippage or poor form. The structural integrity of these kettlebells will ensure the integrity of your lifts and lifestyle.

Pros

• The powder finish is the right amount of smooth and rough for enhanced grip
• Different weights add nice versatility to each workout
• Consistent and durable products from a company who cares about their equipment and consumers

Cons

• Premium priced item
• Some of the higher weights may have pitting issues.

Price: Ranges from $69.99 to $424.99

Check out our individual review for Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells here!

---

Best Kettlebell For Your Home Or Gym

A kettlebell should be versatile and whether you are using it at home or in the gym, should reflect all your goals. Structural integrity is key and this kettlebell from Kettlebell Kings holds up to that and is perfect for either at home or in the gym. The best kettlebells for home workouts can greatly enhance your workouts from home so you see gains in a comfortable environment.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebell

These kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are amazing for promoting better grip for safer and more effective workouts, overall protection of the iron for durability and longevity, and a promise from an amazing company in Kettlebell Kings. Each kettlebell is made from a single piece of cast iron so the handle remains intact and each is color-coded so you know exactly what amount you’re using. The powder coat ensures a solid grip for no slippage or poor form. The structural integrity of these kettlebells will ensure the integrity of your lifts and lifestyle.

Pros

• The powder finish is the right amount of smooth and rough for enhanced grip
• Different weights add nice versatility to each workout
• Consistent and durable products from a company who cares about their equipment and consumers

Cons

• Premium priced item
• Some of the higher weights may have pitting issues.

Price: Ranges from $69.99 to $424.99

Check out our individual review for Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells here!

---

Best Kettlebell For The Money

Kettlebells, and all fitness equipment for that matter, can be expensive and we know that. Finding the right kettlebell that is still high-quality but also affordable is a challenge but one worth undertaking and Eleiko has you covered with their top tier kettlebells.

Eleiko Training Kettlebell

These well-constructed kettlebells from Eleiko are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.

Pros

• Durability and consistency are a plus
• Great weight options for variety and versatility
• Perfect for strength work and hard training
• Great grips on both for stability and added strength

Cons

• Premium priced option

Price: Ranges from $25.00 to $163.00

Check out our individual review for Eleiko Kettlebells here!

---

Best Kettlebell For Lifters

Those of us who lift big may wonder how kettlebells can actually help us see growth. With a premium kettlebell designed for lifters, you won’t suffer from a poor workout and each exercise will see the gains you want most for all your lifting needs. The best kettlebells for weightlifting can target those same lifting wants for similar or better results.

American Barbell Classic Kettlebell

American Barbell Classic Kettlebell is a premium kettlebell made from the highest quality standards. A textured finish offers a solid grip and chip-resistant surface while a large flat base offers the best in terms of stability. Made from single cast iron, this offers superior ergonomics and durability so you never have to worry about a poor workout or poor product. The clean and smooth finish gives a great look and a secure grip eliminates the need for chalk.

Pros

• Solid cast iron and textured finish
• Secured grip means no chalk
• Superior ergonomics and durability

Cons

• Finish may not be as smooth as advertised which may affect grip

Price: Ranges from $27.00 to $168.00

---

Best Kettlebell For Cardio

While kettlebells can work well for lifters and their strength goals, they are also great for increasing cardio. Those exercises used to get your heart rate going can greatly affect your endurance gains and the best kettlebells for cardio will only help.

Gymreapers Kettlebell

Gymreapers Kettlebells are made from durable and long-lasting cast iron with a well-designed flat and wobble free base. Built for a variety of exercises, these kettlebells are great for building strength and endurance while also promoting a better weight training regimen. The molding process for these kettlebells ensures each kettlebell is well made and of the highest quality to not only prevent wobbling but also offer a smooth finish with smooth handles. This ensures a great grip for whatever workout comes your way.

Pros

• Durable cast iron for longevity
• Great for strength building and endurance
• Smooth handles and a top tier molding process

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than others on this list

Price: Ranges from $29.99 to $189.99

---

Best Kettlebell For Beginners

For those just starting out, kettlebells are a worthwhile tool to know about. The right kettlebell to start out with can give you everything you want and then some to set you up for great lifting success.

Eleiko Training Kettlebell

These well-constructed kettlebells from Eleiko are classic and effective for dynamic strength movements and functional fitness. Designed for dynamic training, these will help you gain strength, mobility, and the cardiovascular benefit of real endurance. The varied grip allows for a double hand hold and the rugged and durable finish is resistant to high impact and holds chalk for a good grip. A durable high-grade cast iron kettlebell, this is perfect for those strength goals and the demands of hard training on the body.

Pros

• Durability and consistency are a huge plus
• Great weight options for variety and versatility
• Perfect for strength work and hard training
• Great grips on both for stability and added strength

Cons

• Premium priced

Price: Ranges from $25.00 to $163.00

Check out our individual review for Eleiko Kettlebells here!

Benefits Of Kettlebells

Kettlebells provide many benefits for growth in a multitude of areas for a variety of exercises. With an increased effort to make kettlebells a staple in all routines, these exercise tools are a main focus for many athletes and the best kettlebells for competition can greatly influence training and performance for all those results you seek most.

• Full body workout: Targets many muscle groups and increases strength, endurance, and flexibility (1).
• Promote strength & power: Improved power output at an intense pace for increased lean muscle mass (2).
• Improved balance, stability, & coordination: Enhance mind-muscle connection and work to improve technique and form.
• Simple & convenient tools: No changing weights and easy to learn for great workouts and added versatility.

Best Kettlebell Exercises

When it comes to building strength and size with kettlebells, it’s important to know which exercises can help get you to where you want to be. The right exercises with a well-rounded training program can greatly influence and affect all your gains (3,4). By focusing on upper and lower body parts, you can build that muscle you want most while seeing a physique others will envy.

Best Upper Body Kettlebell Exercises

• Kettlebell Push-Ups
• Kettlebell Row
• Kettlebell Bench Press
• Kettlebell Skullcrushers
• Kettlebell Upright Rows

Best Lower Body Kettlebell Exercises

• Kettlebell Goblet Squat
• Kettlebell Lunge
• Kettlebell Bulgarian Split Squat
• Kettlebell Lateral Lunge

Best Kettlebell Core Exercises

• One-Arm Kettlebell Swings
• Kettlebell Turkish Get-Ups
• Front-Racked Kettlebell Lunges
• Unilateral Kettlebell Overhead Carry

How To Grip & Hold A Kettlebell

The number one thing when performing kettlebell training is to not over grip the handle. You want a relaxed grip for optimal versatility and movement. With kettlebells, you can hold them by the handle, or by the base of it to offer an easier grip. It is all preference as to what you want out of your training. If you are holding by the base you can cup it to fit your hands around it and if you are holding by the handle, go more towards the side instead of directly in the center.

Kettlebells Vs. Dumbbells

When it comes to using kettlebells versus dumbbells, it should be said that both can greatly affect your gains for the better. But what you’ll find with kettlebells is more versatility and the ability to promote strength and power in a bit more of a convenient way. The grip of the kettlebell over the dumbbell is more conducive to powering you through workouts and getting the most effective lift and kettlebells take up less space as is. Kettlebells do tend to work smaller muscles more effectively than dumbbells as well so while you of course work those larger muscles, those stabilizers also get good work done too to improve weightlifting, powerlifting, and bodybuilding performance.

How We Choose

When looking at the best kettlebells, we first look at the company and what product they are putting out there. Your kettlebell should be high quality and durable to both save you time and money. The material and overall durability of the product is important to us as well because you deserve to have the best product in your hands for whatever type of training you choose. We lastly look at price because we know how expensive this equipment can get. It is possible to have great quality equipment without totally breaking the bank.

FAQ Section

What is the best kettlebell?

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells. These kettlebells promote a better and safer grip to protect you during any workout. Great quality and durability ensures longevity and maximum gains.

Can I actually get a good workout with a kettlebell?

Kettlebells can greatly affect your workouts and you can absolutely get a good workout with them. With the versatility to tackle any exercise, you can get a full body workout, or simply an isolated upper or lower body workout depending on your goals.

How do I know which kettlebell to buy?

The reputation of the brand is important because you want a quality and durable kettlebell. Also look at the grip and read customer reviews to see if others found it helpful or not. Knowing what weight to buy can be challenging so if this is for your home gym, maybe go to a gym and try those out for size so you know exactly what size kettlebell to buy.

Wrap Up

Kettlebells are great exercise tools to enhance all of your gains and are simple and effective pieces of equipment to use. These five kettlebells will work to seriously give you great benefits for overall training and performance. The benefits of these tools will really get you to consider adding them to your workout routine so when performance time comes, you are more than ready. Check out these best kettlebells for bodybuilding and all your weightlifting needs today and see what they can do for you.

Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.

Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

References

1. Kravitz, Len. “Kettlebell Research Update”. (source)
2. Beardsley, Chris; Contreras, Bret (2014). “The Role of Kettlebells in Strength and Conditioning: A Review of the Literature”. (source)
3. Jay, Kenneth; Frisch, Dennis; Hansen, Klaus; Zebis, Mette K.; et al. (2011). “Kettlebell training for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health: a randomized controlled trial”. (source)
4. Meier, Joseph; Quednow, Jeffrey; Sedlak, Timothy. “The Effects of High Intensity Interval-Based Kettlebells and Battle Rope Training on Grip Strength and Body Composition in College-Aged Adults”. (source)
5. Manocchia, Pasquale; Spierer, David K.; Lufkin, Adrienne K. S.; Minichiello, Jacqueline; Castro, Jessica (2013). “Transference of Kettlebell Training to Strength, Power, and Endurance”. (source)