Kettlebell swings are one of my favorite workouts for high-intensity interval training. But if you’ve seen as many poor-quality kettlebells as I have over the years, then you know that it’s very easy to pick up a bad set.
From ones that start to rust to ones where the coating on the handle comes off, I’ve had all the frustration but also plenty of experience in finding the right ones.
So, our team got together with a few clients to research and test out over 40 different kettlebells over a period of one year.
Here is our list of the 10 best kettlebells for home gym use.
The Best Kettlebells for Home Gyms
- Best Overall Kettlebells for Home Gyms: Rogue Fitness
- Cheapest Kettlebells for Home Gyms: Rogue Fitness Kettle Gryp
- Best Kettlebells for Bodybuilders: Rogue Fitness Monster Kettlebells
- Best Home Gym Kettlebell for Women: Kettlebell Kings
- Most Versatile Kettlebell for Home Gym: CAP Barbell
- Best Kettlebell for Beginners: Lifeline
- Best Value-for-Money Kettlebell: Rogue Fitness Kettlebell - E Coat
- Best Home Gym Kettlebells With Wider Grip: Yes4All
- Most Comfortable Kettlebells for Home: Amazon Basics
- Most Durable Home Gym Kettlebells: Rogue Fitness
- Best Soft Kettlebell for Home Workout: Bionic Body
Our Top Kettlebell For Home Gym (April 2024)
1 - Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebells (Best Overall & Most Durable)
- Material : Rubber-Coated Iron
- Weight : 26 - 70 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.5”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Durable rubber coating reduces the impact of chips and scuffs
- Great weight range for intense kettlebell exercises
- Very comfortable grip diameter will also suit people with larger hands
- Comes with color-coded handles to make picking the right one easier
Cons
- Currently not available in lower weight ranges
Rogue kettlebells are the most durable I have ever found, and I have been using them for my own kettlebell workouts for over a year without even a slight mark on them.
The cast iron core and handle are one single piece, and the handle has a very comfortable powder coat finish that makes gripping it easier.
They are by far the best rubber-coated kettlebell set you’ll find to give you the most flexibility for training to improve your strength and endurance [1].
Quick Facts:
2 - Rogue Fitness Monster Kettlebells (Best for Bodybuilders)
- Material : Solid Iron
- Weight : 97 - 203 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.58”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High weight ranges are suitable for elite athletes and bodybuilders
- Large handle makes it very easy and comfortable to grip with two hands
- Single-piece cast iron design for a smooth finish
Cons
- They can get scratched and chipped as these ones are not rubber-coated
These Rogue competition kettlebells are more suitable for strongman weight training and bodybuilding as they start at 97 pounds.
One thing our team agreed on based on our test results is that the powder-coated kettlebell handle was very grippy and comfortable, even for two large hands to hold on to.
I just wish that these Rogue powder-coated kettlebells also had some rubber coating for protection.
Quick Facts:
3 - Kettlebell Kings (Best for Women)
- Material : Powder Coated Kettlebells
- Weight : 9 - 106 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.3”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great weight range for more diverse kettlebell swing training
- Good quality powder coating to reduce the chance of chipping
- Kettlebell Kings also offers free workouts to help beginners get started
Cons
- The handle diameter might be a bit small for larger hands
These Kettlebell Kings powder-coated options are ideal for people starting out with this kind of strength training, especially women.
Starting at just 9 pounds per kettlebell, these are ideal even for people who are exercising to overcome injuries.
The powder coating is very good quality, and even after I knocked them around a bit during training, there didn’t seem to be any damage.
The main downside with the Kettlebell Kings, based on our testing experience, is that they might not be best suited for people with larger hands as they only have a 1.3-inch diameter.
Quick Facts:
4 - CAP Barbell (Most Versatile)
- Material : Powder Coated Kettlebell
- Weight : 9 - 88 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.5”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good quality powder coat finish keeps these looking new
- Uses bright colors to indicate the different weights
- Great range of weights available, all with the same size handle
Cons
- Some people prefer a larger flat bottom than you get with these
I’ve used other CAP Barbell weights before, and I was pleased to see that this competition kettlebell set lived up to the quality I have seen with their other products.
The powder coating is quite thick, and that means there are fewer chances of chips and scratches.
The main downside is that they have quite a small, flat bottom.
I like mixing my kettlebell training with push-ups using the kettlebells to increase my range of motion, and they don’t feel as stable as others.
Quick Facts:
5 - Rogue Fitness Kettle Gryp (Cheapest)
- Material : Plastic
- Weight : 5 - 100 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.15”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cheap solution for people that own a dumbbell set
- Securely grips a 1.5” dumbbell handle with a simple clip mechanism
- The large handle makes two-hand grips comfortable
Cons
- Clipping and unclipping dumbbells can slow down your training
Rogue Fitness has created this cheap and simple solution for people who already own a set of dumbbells. I found them extremely easy to use. I simply unclip the handle and open it up.
Then I insert my dumbbell and then close the handle again.
Once you have it set up, it feels very similar to using a regular kettlebell.
But you do need to keep in mind that your dumbbells need to have handles that are at least 1.5 inches in diameter and 4.5 inches long.
Based on my experience as a personal trainer, I wouldn’t recommend trying to force anything smaller for safety reasons.
Quick Facts:
6 - Rogue Fitness Kettlebell - E Coat (Best Value-for-Money)
- Material : Ductile Iron
- Weight : 9 - 88 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.2” - 1.5”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in great weight increments to suit your training
- Very affordable and high-quality set of dumbbells
- Applied e-coat finish seems to protect the weights from scratches
Cons
- Some of the lower-weight kettlebells have quite a slim handle
If you want a top-quality kettlebell from Rogue Fitness with a more affordable price tag, then these e-coated ones might be exactly what you’re looking for.
I've found that while these may not match the durability of rubber and powder-coated options, they offer excellent value for home workouts. They strike a balance between quality and affordability, making them a practical choice for home gym enthusiasts.
Also, the weights start low, which would probably be suitable for beginners, especially doing arm exercises with kettlebells.
Quick Facts:
7 - Lifeline (Best for Beginners)
- Material : Cast Iron
- Weight : 9 - 97 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.42”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large handle makes it easy and comfortable to grip with two hands
- Has a large wobble-free flat surface bottom
- Great range of weight available to gradually build up a set
Cons
- Some people find that the handle is a bit too smooth
Lifeline has created a set of weights that are ideal for newcomers to kettlebell training.
The weights start at just 9 lbs., and they go up in ideal increments to help you gradually build up your set.
My experience with Lifeline kettlebells was quite positive, especially appreciating the large handles. They provided a comfortable grip during our competitive training sessions, making them a great choice for beginners looking to step into kettlebell workouts.
The only negative feedback we got was that the surface on the handle is a bit smoother than other kettlebells, so you might want to use some chalk.
Quick Facts:
8 - Yes4All (Best With Wider Grip)
- Material : Cast Iron
- Weight : 5 - 50 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.6”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Thicker than average handle is ideal for people with large hands
- PVC coating can help protect your floors from damage and reduce noise
- A good-sized flat bottom provides stability for different workout uses
Cons
- The handle could be a bit wider on the heavier kettlebells
The Yes4All option is ideal for people just starting with kettlebell exercise sessions, and it’s available in a wide range of different weights with good increments.
The Yes4All kettlebells, with their 1.6-inch thick handles, have been a game-changer in my routine. As someone with larger hands, I found the grip comfortable and secure, enhancing my workout experience significantly.
You’ll also notice that placing them on the ground during your kettlebell workout won’t make that loud metal noise due to the thick PVC finish on them.
Quick Facts:
9 - Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell (Most Comfortable)
- Material : Cast Iron
- Weight : 15 - 35 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.3”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Very comfortable textured grip prevents it from slipping
- A nice large flat base gives it great stability
- The shiny black enamel finish makes them easy to keep clean
Cons
- The enamel can chip, exposing the iron to moisture and potential rust
Using the Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell felt surprisingly similar to some of the higher-end models I've tried. Their straightforward, weld-free design offers a comfortable and effective workout experience, making them a great budget-friendly option.
They also have a large, flat base that allows you to use them for an extended range of motion during push-ups.
The downside is that the enamel finish can chip if you knock them off each other, and that can cause the iron to rust if you’re not careful.
Quick Facts:
10 - Bionic Body (Best Soft Kettlebell)
- Material : Vinyl
- Weight : 10 - 40 lbs
- Handle Diameter : 1.4”
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Soft kettlebell is ideal for reducing the noise impact of a kettlebell snatch
- Also reduces the risks of scratching wood floors and tiles
- Long handle makes it easy to grab hold of with two hands
Cons
- The handle is very smooth and becomes slippery when you sweat
And the final recommendation for the best kettlebell for home use is this Bionic Body option, which is very different from all others. It’s essentially a bit like a slam ball in that it’s a vinyl bag with a handle.
Having used the Bionic Body in my home gym, I really appreciated its soft design. It's quieter and more floor-friendly than traditional kettlebells, making it a great choice for those with noise concerns.
The downside is that the handle is very smooth, and you could lose grip if you sweat a lot.
Quick Facts:
How We Tested Kettlebells for Home Gyms
Here's how we chose the best kettlebells for home gyms:
1. Material and Durability
To assess the material and construction quality of kettlebells, we conducted a series of tests focusing on durability, balance, and finish. We dropped each kettlebell from a height of three feet onto a rubber mat to simulate regular wear and tear, and we checked for any signs of damage or deformation.
We also evaluated the balance by performing standard exercises like swings and snatches, noting any imbalances or irregularities in weight distribution. The finish was examined for grip comfort and potential for causing blisters or discomfort during prolonged use.
2. Advanced Techniques and Workouts
For advanced techniques and workouts, our testing involved experienced kettlebell users performing complex movements and flows. We assessed the kettlebells' suitability for advanced maneuvers, focusing on balance, grip, and the ease of transitioning between different exercises.
We also incorporated these kettlebells into HIIT routines to test their effectiveness in high-intensity scenarios, noting any issues with grip security or discomfort during rapid movements.
3. Ergonomics
Our ergonomic evaluation covered handle design, weight distribution, grip safety, and user fatigue. We tested handles of various shapes, widths, and textures to see how they accommodated different hand sizes and how comfortable they were during extended workouts.
Lastly, we monitored user fatigue, particularly in the hands and forearms, to determine how the kettlebell's design impacts workout efficiency and overall user comfort.
4. Price
Our price evaluation involved comparing the costs of various kettlebells, considering their material quality, design, and brand reputation. We looked at whether higher-priced kettlebells offered substantial benefits over more affordable options in terms of durability and ergonomics.
Assessing the long-term investment value was also crucial; we evaluated whether each kettlebell would be a worthwhile purchase over time, considering the potential need for replacements or upgrades.
Additionally, we considered the target audience for each kettlebell, analyzing if the price point was suitable for beginners, fitness enthusiasts, or professional athletes.
Essential Buyer's Guide for Kettlebells
Here are a few things to keep in mind while narrowing down your choices to what would suit you best.
Who Should Buy Kettlebells for Home Use?
Anyone who regularly does cardio and strength training at home should consider buying Rogue kettlebells.
While they are competition kettlebells, they're the type of quality that you invest in to do decades of training without replacing them.
They are ideal for everything from goblet squats to plain and simple kettlebell swings, and I even use mine for squeezing in the odd set of biceps curls or triceps kickbacks.
It’s the kind of fitness equipment that you start using and then wonder how you ever did without it.
“Kettlebell swings work your entire posterior chain in one fell swoop. This series of large muscles runs from your neck to your heels on the back of your body.”
- Jennifer Mathe, MS, CSCS, NATA-BOC at Greatist.com
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Who Shouldn’t Buy Kettlebells for Home Use?
Anyone who doesn’t regularly do a mix of strength and cardio training to burn fat faster should probably not buy kettlebells.
Also, if you don’t have the space to store a set of these larger free weights, then you might need to think of another option.
One thing that might work better for you is looking into the best adjustable kettlebell set.
These are a lot more compact and affordable than buying a set of 10 or 20 kettlebells.
Alternatively, you might want to look into doing more traditional isolation training with dumbbells and barbells.
Kettlebell Weight
First of all, take a look at the minimum and maximum weights on offer. It’s nice to eventually have a complete set of the same brand, and you want to make sure that you have all the weights covered for your kettlebell exercises.
Also, check the weight increments. Some companies have a wide range but then go up in very large increments that might not be suitable for a lot of people.
Handle Quality And Thickness
The best kettlebells that I’ve used at home and in commercial gyms have always stood out because of the quality of the handle.
First of all, what you want to see is a handle that, ideally, is slightly rough with the natural indentations of the metal casting.
A completely smooth surface will become slippery, and according to a Research Gate study, it's easy to get a kettlebell injury, which you want to avoid [2].
The other thing you want to look at is the thickness of the handle.
A good average thickness that suits small and large hands is about 1.4 inches. My personal preference is 1.5 inches, as I have larger-than-average hands.
Durability
If you want to spend your money on something that will last for decades, then you shouldn’t consider anything other than cast iron kettlebells.
According to a study in the International Journal of Technology, cast iron is a highly durable material, and manufacturers pour the molten metal into a mold to get a seamless and non-welded shape [3].
Given the amount of punishment your kettlebells might get and how often they might bang off each other, you don’t want a weld to break.
You’ll also find other options, like plastic filled with water or sand. But I have yet to find one of these that will stand up to the strain they should get during training.
Coating
One of my favorite options is a rubber-coated kettlebell set, and the ones I have at home from Rogue Fitness have a nice protective rugger layer.
The first advantage this has is that it protects the iron core from moisture and potential rusting.
More importantly, it makes them less noisy when you drop them a few inches.
And the rubber also helps you avoid damaging any tile or wooden floors.
Another common option is a powder coat finish. This is a very high-quality process that “melts” paint on the surface, creating a much more durable bond than simply spraying it on [4].
Material
The best kettlebells I’ve used are all made of cast iron.
The reason this is ideal is that it allows you to buy heavy kettlebells without worrying about their massive size.
You simply couldn’t achieve the same weight ranges with water or sand-filled weights.
The one exception that I have added to the above list is mainly for beginners and people who are working out at home and need to keep the noise to a minimum.
A vinyl bag filled with sand can be an ideal solution. You probably know vinyl as a cheap and hard-wearing flooring option, and the same material can be used for gym equipment [5].
Cost
Rogue Fitness kettlebells might be the most expensive ones, but you’ll likely still be using them in 30 years' time.
If you’re on a strict budget, then I would still recommend getting ones with an iron core.
It’s usually the coating material and process that make them more expensive, but that won’t really impact your workouts.
Just keep in mind that by saving a little bit now, you might end up having to replace them a lot sooner.
How to Maintain Kettlebells for Home Gyms
Here's how to maintain kettlebells for home gyms:
- Regular cleaning: Wipe your kettlebells after each use with a damp cloth to remove sweat and dirt. For a deeper clean, use a mild detergent mixed with water, but avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the coating.
- Rust prevention: If your kettlebell is made of cast iron or steel, it's susceptible to rust. Store it in a dry, indoor environment to prevent moisture exposure. If rust appears, gently sand the affected area and apply a rust-inhibitor spray.
- Proper storage: Avoid stacking kettlebells directly on top of each other, as this can lead to chipping or damage. Use a kettlebell rack or store them on a mat or rubber surface.
- Regular inspection: Periodically check for any signs of wear, such as cracks in the handle or coating. If you notice significant wear, it's time to replace the kettlebell to ensure safety.
FAQs
Are Kettlebells Good For Home Gyms?
Yes, kettlebells are good for home gyms, as they offer a wide range of strength exercises with limited equipment. With just a few kettlebells, you could be in a position to work on everything from your legs to your core and your chest to your shoulders.
How Many Kettlebells Do You Need For A Home Gym?
You probably need at least three kettlebells for a home gym. The reason is that there is a wide range of workouts you can do beyond the simple swings and snatches. If you don’t have the budget for a full set of six or more, then you could consider an adjustable kettlebell.
What Are Some Disadvantages Of Using Kettlebells?
Some disadvantages of using kettlebells are that bad technique and the wrong weights can quickly lead to injuries. And there is a lot of evidence that home exercises are leading to a lot more injuries than ever before.
Are Cheap Kettlebells Worth It?
No, cheap kettlebells are not worth it. They might work fine for a short while, but you’ll quickly find that they need replacing. Some cheap options I have seen are water or sand-filled, and the plastic on these can easily crack with normal use.
Our Verdict on the Best Kettlebell for Home Gyms
During my research into the best kettlebells for use in a home gym, Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebells stood out the most.
Our tests found the comfortable grip and versatile weight range make them suitable for a variety of exercises, catering to both beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts.
Whether you're doing high-intensity workouts or just starting your fitness journey, these kettlebells are a reliable and long-lasting choice for your home gym. Investing in these will very likely change your workout game for the better.
Our #1 Recommendation
Rogue Fitness Rubber Coated Kettlebells (Best Overall & Most Durable)
- Durable rubber coating reduces the impact of chips and scuffs
- Great weight range for intense kettlebell exercises
- Very comfortable grip diameter will also suit people with larger hands
- Comes with color-coded handles to make picking the right one easier
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- Currently not available in lower weight ranges
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