The 6 Best Kettlebells for Every Workout and Fitness Level

ProsWide grip for one and two-handed exercisesTextured coating provides a solid gripCool to the touchVery affordable ConsNo bottom vinyl coating to protect your floorsAfter testing a handful of kettlebells, this cast iron option from Amazon Basics earns its spot at the top of our list because of its budget price tag and versatile weight options. The weight range from 10 to 60 pounds has allowed me to ramp up my training intensity over time.This kettlebell has consistently been my go-to and favorite even as I’ve expanded my collection. They’re surprisingly sturdy and durable, even after two years of use. WH fitness and reviews editor Natascha Grief also loves this model and has multiple in her home gym, too.I own it in several weight sizes, and it has a compact shape that’s great for every kettlebell exercise imaginable. The grip is slightly textured and wide enough to do one- or two-handed exercises, but petite enough for smaller hands like mine. I can confidently hold it, even during potential wall-breaking moves like swings, and it’s comfortable to hold, whether I’m doing one set or five.While these weights have a lot going for them, there is one con: There is no vinyl coating on the bottom (although there is a vinyl version, which WH editors also love). To avoid scratching my floors, I have to set it down carefully or use a mat underneath.Read More: Best DumbbellsWeight10-60 poundsMaterialCast ironGripTexturedProsVinyl coating protects your floorsWide handle is easy to gripGood weight varietyConsBottom may not be entirely flatA coated kettlebell like this one from Yes4All protects your floors in case of butterfingers through a thoughtfully wrapped coating up the bottom third of the handle. The handle itself makes for a comfortable grip. Fitness contributor Nicolette Accardi says, “I have the 15-pound model and I never feel it slipping away from me when squatting or doing Russian twists.” It comes in five-pound increments up to 65 pounds, giving you plenty of options.While I wouldn’t recommend tossing this on your floor at home, the kettlebell doesn’t make a loud noise when it’s dropped, unlike uncoated models. It’s also worth pointing out it’s very affordable, similar to our best overall.Just note the bottom of the kettlebell is not entirely flat, which can be tricky if you’re trying exercises like uneven pushups (with one hand placed through the handles of a KB).Read More: Best Compact Home Gym EquipmentWeight5-65 poundsMaterialCast iron and vinylGripTexturedAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsUnique pyramid shape works with a bunch of maneuversComfortable all-over gripMultiple ways to hold ConsOnly goes up to 26 poundsUntraditional shape isn’t ideal for every exerciseIf you prefer a more traditional competition-style kettlebell, keep scrolling. But if you’re on the hunt for a highly versatile weight that aims to combine the attributes of a kettlebell with those of a dumbbell and a dual-grip medicine ball, the YBell Neo Series is worth consideration.This weight is perfect for my needs—it’s relatively compact and offers multiple ways to grip, thanks to its unique pyramid-style design. I can use it for everything from biceps curls to lunges, though it’s not ideal for swings.The grip on this is perfection. It features a neoprene outer layer to create a slightly sticky feel with impressive gripping power, so I’m not stressed about accidentally flinging it across the room during swings. The wide handle leaves enough room for one- or two-handed exercises, but it may feel a little crowded using both mitts at once if your hands are on the larger side.You have three different spots you can grip on the outside of this weight, along with an inside bar that’s ideal for dumbbell-style work. While the sides are rounded, I found it was relatively easy to rest the YBell on its base or sides to save space.The only potential downside of this weight is that it tops out at 26 pounds. If you’re interested in doing heavier lifting, you’ll need to upgrade to a different device.Features at a GlanceWeight2.4-26 poundsMaterialAluminum and neopreneGripTexturedProsGood valueDial is secure and easy to useComfortable and wide gripConsBulkier than individual kettlebellsOnly goes up to 40 poundsHaving more than one kettlebell in your collection is beneficial if you want to experiment with more w8, but that can hog space. The BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell fixes that problem by offering six different weights (eight, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40) with the turn of a dial. The process is quick and easy, whether I want to add or subtract weight.It has a wide handle with plenty of room for one- or two-handed exercises. It’s also only seven inches across, which makes it an excellent option for apartments and living room gyms. Because this kettlebell has a thick plastic exterior, it doesn’t make noise if you drop it. But you’ll want to avoid tossing it on the ground given the plastic can potentially crack if you’re too rough with it.This is the bulkiest kettlebell compared to other options I tested. While I was able to adjust my workouts slightly to accommodate its larger size, I had trouble doing exercises like goblet squats without adjusting my grip. The smooth handle is also potentially problematic. I didn’t have any problems with grip, but I’d suggest using a pair of textured gloves in case your hands get sweaty. The dial was also a little tough to turn at first, but it quickly loosened up.Weight8-40 poundsMaterialCompositeGripSmoothAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCompetition-style kettlebell in an adjustable designSturdy cast iron constructionRubber base won’t ding floorsConsWeight numbers are hard to see on the dialMany people prefer a competition-style kettlebell due to its uniform design that’s ideal for high reps and technical moves. The Rep Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell offers a competition-style kettlebell shape with adjustable weights, giving you plenty of space-saving mileage out of one tool.This kettlebell is well-designed, stacking five weights in one relatively compact design. (Weight ranges include 8 to 16 kg, 16 to 24 kg, and 20 to 40 lbs.) To adjust the weight, just push down on the dial with two fingers, twist to your desired weight, and lift. It has a rubber base to protect your floors although—heads up—the rubber coating is only there when you use the kettlebell’s full weight. Otherwise, you’ll want to set down your kettlebell gingerly.REP’s adjustable kettlebell is made from cast iron and feels durable. The textured handle is easy to grip and has plenty of space for two-handed moves, although it feels slightly wider than others. If space is a premium at your place and you’re looking to grow with your kettlebell, this is a solid choice.Features at a GlanceWeight8-16kg, 16-24kg, 20-40lbsMaterialsCast iron, rubberGripTexturedProsSturdy, secure designPadded handles provide a comfortable gripMultiple closure system won’t spill its contentsConsYou have to fill it yourselfSand kettlebells are a highly portable option that allows you to add a little more instability to your kettlebell workouts. The GoRuck Sand Kettlebell is built tough thanks to its Cordura nylon design and multiple closure system, so you don’t have to stress about accidentally spilling its contents all over the place.GoRuck’s kettlebell has a teardrop-style shape that works well for many exercises. This kettlebell arrives empty, so you’ll fill it up with sand prior to use. Pro tip: use playground sand available at home improvement stores for this. The reinforcing on nearly all of the seams and bottoms means you can toss this on the ground without worrying about it flying open and spilling sand everywhere.This style of kettlebell isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking to add the extra challenge of sandbag training to your kettlebell workouts, this sand kettlebell design will take a lot of abuse and holds up well over time.Features at a GlanceWeight13-44 poundsMaterialCordura nylonGripPaddedKorin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.Taylor Beebe, CPT, is a personal trainer and kettlebell expert in California. She’s also a national qualifier for USA Powerlifting.Natascha is an editor and writer covering health, fitness, and the ways people move through the world. She’s been a NASM-certified personal trainer for more than a decade, with a background in functional strength training, corrective exercise, nutrition, and behavior change. She has additional CES, CNC, BCS, and SFC certifications. She is also a level-2 certified Spinning instructor. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, and other outlets, and her experience spans both editorial and hands-on work across the fitness industry. Whether she’s writing about training, health, or performance, she’s most interested in making complicated topics useful, approachable, and helpful.