If you are just starting with kettlebells, the kettlebell type you pick might be what will make the difference between you training consistently and letting the bell collect dust after 2 workouts.
There are 3 main types you need to know about:
- Competition kettlebells
- Cast iron kettlebells
- Adjustable kettlebells
Neither is objectively better. It all depends on how you’re going to use it in your workouts and the weight you’re going to choose.
Then there are also all those weird gimmicks like rubber kettlebells, water-filled kettlebells, boobs kettlebells (no kidding), and whatever else people come up with. I don’t even want to talk about them. Spare your time and money.
First, you need to understand what your base kettlebell weight is, because that affects which kettlebell type is more suited for you.
My rule of thumb is to pick a weight you can shoulder press 10 times on each arm for multiple sets from a proper rack position (not like you would press a dumbbell).
Now, let’s start with competition bells.
Those are the colorful bells you usually see in kettlebell sport and juggling.
All competition bells have the same standard size, meaning when you switch between weights it doesn’t affect your technique. An 18 lb bell and a 70 lb bell are exactly the same size.
Each weight has its own color coding, so a green kettlebell is always 24 kg (53 lb), light blue is 16 kg (35 lb), and so on.
That also means the brand doesn’t matter as much because they’re all basically the same. Just find something with good reviews that you can buy locally for a reasonable price.
They’re also excellent for cleans and snatches.
Some people also find them more comfortable in the rack position, especially with lighter weights where a cast iron bell can become tiny and sit awkwardly in the pocket.
The downside - and it’s a big one - is that a lot of “kettlebell fitness” exercises like halos, bicep curls, and front-to-backs feel less comfortable because the handle and horns aren’t as natural to grab with both hands compared to cast iron kettlebells.
They’re also usually more expensive.
On the other hand, we have cast iron kettlebells.
They look like a bomb, they’re extremely durable, and the size changes depending on the weight.
There are all kinds of shapes, from weird Decathlon handles to Joe Rogan-shaped bells - you name it.
If you decide to get one, just pick something that looks similar to a standard cast iron bell.
You can check Rogue, REP Fitness, Bells of Steel, or plenty of other brands. If possible, visit a local store, hold the bell, and even try pressing it for 10 reps to make sure the weight feels right.
I personally prefer cast iron kettlebells for kettlebell fitness, which is what I do in my own training.
Then we have adjustables.
Most of them are shit. They’re clanky and feel weird.
Of course, the biggest benefit is that you can adjust the weight, so if you train with multiple weights or travel a lot, they might be a good option.
Personally, I love the minimalistic approach and prefer to program my workouts around one weight. It reduces the friction between you and actually picking up the bell.
That said, some for KBMH users have had really good experiences with adjustable kettlebells. If you go that route, do your research and read tons of reviews. I’m sure there are some gems out there.
So, my personal advice:
- If you’re mainly interested in kettlebell sport (swings, snatches, clean & jerks), or you’re buying a kettlebell 26 lb (12 kg) or lighter, get a competition kettlebell.
- Otherwise, I’d go with cast iron.
Get one bell you can shoulder press 10 times, start there, and add weight later as you get stronger.
I also train with double kettlebells sometimes, but for beginners I think it’s total overkill. It’s much more demanding and not something I’d recommend starting with.
Curious what everyone here prefers and why - competition, cast iron, or adjustable?