Cast iron or competition kettlebell — which is better?

Cast iron kettlebells change size with weight (heavier = bigger). Competition kettlebells are all the same dimensions regardless of weight. Competition bells are better for technique consistency and sport training. Cast iron bells are cheaper and fine for general fitness.

Kettlebell Buying Guide: Cast Iron vs Competition vs Adjustable

Q: What size kettlebell should a beginner start with?

Men: 16kg (35 lbs) for ballistic movements (swings, cleans), 12kg (26 lbs) for presses and Turkish get-ups. Women: 8-12kg (18-26 lbs) for ballistics, 6-8kg (13-18 lbs) for grinds. These are starting points — prioritize form over weight.

Q: How many kettlebells do I need?

Start with one. A single 16kg (men) or 8kg (women) kettlebell enables hundreds of exercises. After 3-6 months, add a heavier bell for swings and a lighter one for pressing. Three kettlebells (light/medium/heavy) cover virtually all training needs.

Three Kettlebell Types

Cast iron: size scales with weight (heavier = bigger). Standard for most people. Competition (steel): same dimensions regardless of weight — important for consistent form at different loads. Adjustable: one bell, multiple weights — space-efficient but compromised feel.

Rogue Kettlebell

$55-140 Check Price on Amazon

Cast iron, single-cast (no seam), flat base, smooth handle. Excellent quality control.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat

$50-130 Check Price on Amazon

Cast iron, powder-coated for grip, single-cast. Best texture for chalk adherence.

Kettlebell Kings Competition

$85-200 Check Price on Amazon

33mm handle (all weights), color-coded, steel shell. Required for sport; great for technique consistency.

REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell

$100 Check Price on Amazon

12-32 lbs in one bell, quick-lock plates. Best space-saving option.

Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell

$20-60 Check Price on Amazon

Budget cast iron. Seam can be rough — file it down. Functional if you don't mind finishing work.

Sources

StrongFirst. "Recommended Starting Weights." strongfirst.com.
Garage Gym Reviews. "Best Kettlebells 2025."

Frequently Asked Questions

What size kettlebell should a beginner start with?

Men: 16kg (35 lbs) for swings and cleans, 12kg for presses. Women: 8-12kg for ballistics, 6-8kg for grinds.

Cast iron or competition kettlebell?

Cast iron changes size with weight. Competition bells are all the same dimensions. Competition bells are better for technique consistency; cast iron is cheaper.

How many kettlebells do I need?

Start with one. Three kettlebells (light/medium/heavy) cover virtually all training needs.