Best Competition Kettlebells For 2025

The Ultimate Competition Kettlebell Review: Eleiko, American Barbell, Rogue, and Centr

Kettlebells have become an essential tool for strength training, endurance, and overall fitness. Unlike standard kettlebells, competition kettlebells are designed for high-level performance, with uniform sizes regardless of weight, optimized balance, and durable steel construction. Whether you’re training for kettlebell sport competitions or looking for a reliable tool for your workouts, choosing the right kettlebell is crucial. In this comprehensive review, we analyze four top competition kettlebells from Eleiko, American Barbell, Rogue, and Centr.

Every company mentioned in this article produces competition-grade kettlebells that are used in various fitness events and kettlebell sport competitions. These brands are recognized for their high-quality manufacturing, making them the go-to choice for athletes, trainers, and competitive kettlebell lifters.

Rogue Fitness and Centr, in particular, have established themselves in larger functional fitness and endurance competitions. Rogue kettlebells are a staple in high-profile CrossFit events, including the CrossFit Games, where athletes perform grueling workouts incorporating kettlebell swings, snatches, cleans, and carries. The durability and balance of Rogue kettlebells make them ideal for high-rep, high-intensity training sessions.

Centr, through its partnership with HYROX, integrates its kettlebells into large-scale hybrid fitness races that test both strength and endurance. HYROX competitions feature movements like kettlebell farmer’s carries and squats, pushing athletes to maintain consistent form and control while under extreme fatigue. The unique design of Centr’s kettlebells, including their octagonal shape, provides additional stability for exercises performed at competition speed.

Ultimately, whether you’re training for kettlebell sport, CrossFit, or functional fitness competitions, each of these companies offers a kettlebell built to withstand the demands of elite-level performance.

What to Look for in a Competition Kettlebell

Before diving into specific brands, it’s important to understand what sets competition kettlebells apart:

• Uniform Size: Regardless of weight, all competition kettlebells have the same dimensions, allowing for consistent training.
• Steel Construction: Unlike cast-iron kettlebells, competition kettlebells are made from high-grade steel for durability and balance.
• Stainless Steel Handles – Helps prevents rust
• Urethane Coating – Helps prevent noise and also damage.
• Ergonomic Handle: Designed for comfort and efficiency during high-rep training.
• Color Coding: Standardized colors indicate different weights, making it easy to identify them at a glance.
• Flat Base: Ensures stability for exercises requiring kettlebell placement on the ground.

Eleiko Competition Kettlebell

Overview

Eleiko is synonymous with high-quality weightlifting equipment, and their competition kettlebells are no exception. Manufactured with precision, these kettlebells are designed for professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.

Key Features:

• Premium-grade steel construction for durability.
• Textured stainless handle for a secure grip without excessive friction.
• Standardized competition dimensions with a balanced feel.
• Available in a variety of weight increments (from 8kg to 32kg).
• Officially certified for kettlebell sport competitions.

Pros:

✅ Extremely durable and well-balanced. ✅ High-quality construction with precision machining. ✅ Ideal for professional-level training.

Cons:

❌ Higher price compared to other brands. ❌ Limited availability in some regions.

Verdict: If you’re looking for a top-tier competition kettlebell with impeccable craftsmanship, Eleiko is one of the best choices, especially for serious athletes.

Why I like them. While the main body IMO isn’t as high quality as the American Barbells, the handles are more grippy and chalk will stick to them better. I like both.

American Barbell Competition Kettlebell

Overview

American Barbell is well-known for manufacturing high-quality strength equipment, and their competition kettlebells follow that tradition. Designed with a focus on ergonomics and durability, these kettlebells are a solid choice for competitive training.

Key Features:

• Constructed from high-quality steel with a seamless finish.
• Well-balanced for consistent and fluid movements.
• Handle is designed to reduce hand fatigue over long sets.
• Color-coded for easy identification.
• Available in weights from 8kg to 32kg.

Pros:

✅ Smooth finish minimizes discomfort during high-rep training. ✅ Balanced weight distribution. ✅ Durable construction built to last.

Cons:

❌ Slightly more expensive than some competitors. ❌ Handle may feel slippery for those who prefer a textured grip.

Verdict: American Barbell’s competition kettlebells provide a comfortable, balanced feel and are a solid option for those serious about long-term training.

Why I like using these kettlebells. I love the elegant design with the black, red and silver handles. The Urethan makes clanking them together almost noiseless (if you are working out using two of them) and they simply feel professional. The fact that they are commercial grade and use high end materials means they will last a lifetime for most individuals.

Rogue Competition Kettlebell

Overview

Rogue is a well-respected name in the fitness industry, and their competition kettlebells are designed with both quality and affordability in mind. These kettlebells are ideal for athletes looking for durable, well-balanced training equipment.

Key Features:

• Made from precision-cast steel with a smooth finish.
• Competition-standard dimensions and weight accuracy.
• Flat base for stability.
• Color-coded for easy weight identification.
• Handle designed for comfort and grip control.

Pros:

✅ High-quality steel with great durability. ✅ Well-balanced weight for smooth lifts. ✅ Affordable compared to Eleiko and American Barbell.

Cons:

❌ Handle may require chalk for better grip. ❌ Some users report minor inconsistencies in finish quality.

Verdict: Rogue’s competition kettlebells offer excellent value for money, making them a great choice for those looking for high performance at a more affordable price point.

For me I think Rogue could do better. While the Kettlebells are good, I believe both Eleiko and American Barbell have better designs including the stainless steel handles. Rogue Kettlebells do not have stainless steel handles; they feature a textured, powder-coated finish on the handles for grip and durability.

Centr Competition Kettlebell

Overview

Centr, founded by actor Chris Hemsworth, has been gaining traction in the fitness world. Their competition kettlebells are built with both performance and aesthetics in mind, catering to fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike.

​Centr’s Competition Octo Kettlebell was designed to enhance functionality and versatility, particularly for HYROX competitions. Its distinctive octagonal shape ensures even weight distribution, optimizing performance during exercises like the Farmer’s Carry. Crafted from cast iron with a durable urethane coating and a hard chrome-plated steel handle, it offers a secure grip and resilience for both training and competitive events.

Key Features:

• Precision-crafted steel construction for durability.
• Color-coded for quick weight recognition.
• Smooth, ergonomic handle for comfort.
• Flat base for added stability.
• Designed for both general fitness and kettlebell sport training.

Pros:

✅ Aesthetically pleasing design. ✅ Ergonomic handle for comfort during long workouts. ✅ High-quality steel for durability.

Cons:

❌ Newer to the market, so long-term durability is less proven. ❌ Availability may be limited.

Verdict: Centr competition kettlebells are an attractive option for those who want a premium product from a growing brand, though long-term reliability is yet to be fully established.

Final Comparison and Recommendation

Each of these competition kettlebells has its own strengths and weaknesses, making the best choice dependent on your specific needs:

Best Overall: Eleiko

If budget is not a concern and you want the absolute best, Eleiko’s kettlebells offer unparalleled quality and precision.

Best Value: Rogue

For those seeking high-quality competition kettlebells at a more affordable price, Rogue delivers exceptional performance.

Most Comfortable: American Barbell

American Barbell’s smooth grip and balance make it an excellent choice for long sets and high-rep training.

Best for Aesthetics: Centr

If you want a kettlebell that looks as good as it performs, Centr’s competition kettlebells provide a stylish yet functional option.

Final Thoughts

Competition kettlebells are an investment in your training, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference in performance and longevity. Whether you’re a professional athlete or just getting into kettlebell sport, there’s a perfect kettlebell for you among Eleiko, American Barbell, Rogue, and Centr. Evaluate your priorities, budget, and training style to find the one that best suits your needs!

While there are many non-competition kettlebells available on the market, I personally find competition kettlebells to be a superior choice, especially when progressing through different weight levels. One of the biggest advantages is their uniform size—regardless of the weight, the dimensions remain consistent. This ensures a seamless transition between different kettlebells without having to adjust your grip, stance, or movement mechanics.

In contrast, many traditional kettlebells vary significantly in size as the weight increases, which can disrupt form and make certain exercises feel awkward. The consistent feel of competition kettlebells not only improves muscle memory but also enhances overall efficiency during workouts, making them a rewarding investment for both serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Competition Kettlebell Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between competition kettlebells and standard kettlebells?
Competition kettlebells are made from high-quality steel and have a uniform size regardless of weight, ensuring consistent technique and training. Standard kettlebells, often made of cast iron, vary in size as the weight increases, which can affect grip and movement patterns.

2. Are competition kettlebells worth the investment for beginners?
Yes! While competition kettlebells are designed for high-performance training, their consistent size, balanced weight distribution, and ergonomic handles make them a great choice for beginners and advanced athletes alike. They help develop proper form and allow for smooth transitions between weights.

3. What weight should I start with when using competition kettlebells?
For beginners, a good starting weight depends on fitness level and experience. Typically, men start with 12kg (26 lbs) to 16kg (35 lbs), while women often begin with 8kg (18 lbs) to 12kg (26 lbs). For more advanced lifters or those training for competition, heavier weights will be appropriate.

4. Why do competition kettlebells have different colors?
The color-coding system on competition kettlebells is a standardized method to easily identify weights at a glance. Each weight has a specific color, which helps athletes quickly grab the right kettlebell without checking labels.

5. Which competition kettlebell brand is best for me?
The best competition kettlebell depends on your goals, budget, and training style. Eleiko is ideal for serious competitors, Rogue offers great value for performance, American Barbell provides superior comfort, and Centr is a strong choice for HYROX and functional fitness athletes. Consider what features matter most to you before making a purchase.

6. Can I use competition kettlebells for general strength training?
Absolutely! While they are designed for kettlebell sport competitions, competition kettlebells are excellent for general strength training, endurance workouts, and functional fitness exercises like swings, presses, snatches, and squats.

7. Why do competition kettlebells have a narrower handle compared to standard kettlebells?
Competition kettlebells are designed for efficiency in high-repetition movements, which is why they have a narrower handle. This allows for a more controlled grip, reducing forearm fatigue and improving performance during snatches, cleans, and jerks.

8. Do I need chalk when using competition kettlebells?
It depends on the handle texture and your grip preference. Some competition kettlebells, like those from Eleiko, have a slightly textured handle for better grip, while others have a smoother finish that may require chalk, especially for high-rep sets or if your hands get sweaty.

9. How do I maintain and clean competition kettlebells?
To extend the lifespan of your competition kettlebells, wipe them down after each use with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove sweat and chalk buildup. Avoid exposing them to excessive moisture to prevent rust. If rust forms, use a fine steel wool pad to gently remove it.

10. What exercises are best performed with competition kettlebells?
Competition kettlebells are ideal for ballistic movements such as swings, snatches, cleans, and jerks. They are also great for strength-building exercises like Turkish get-ups, goblet squats, and overhead presses. Their balanced design makes them particularly effective for high-rep training and endurance workouts.