There’s plenty of equipment to choose from when outfitting your home or garage gym, and kettlebells are one of the most popular choices for many gym owners. They can be used to improve your strength, power, cardiovascular system, balance, and more, helping you improve nearly all aspects of your health and fitness.
The only problem? Like everything else, kettlebells take up space, and if you’ve already got a gym full of the best dumbbells, barbells, and squat racks, you may find yourself running out of room and hesitant to add something new to the collection.
That’s where adjustable kettlebells come in, providing even greater versatility than regular kettlebells while saving space, much like the best adjustable dumbbells. In this REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell review, I’m going to break down all the details you need to know about this high-quality tool, to help you decide if this is worth adding to your collection.
Our REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Review, Summarized
The REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell is one of the best options on the market. It’s one of the few adjustable models that’s shaped like a traditional kettlebell with a convenient adjustment mechanism, as well as a matte powdercoat finish with plenty of grip.
How We Test Adjustable Kettlebells
With adjustable kettlebells, the adjustment mechanism itself isn’t always the most durable part, especially when it comes to quick-adjust mechanisms. Plastic parts tend to break first under pressure, so we carefully test the durability of each component.
To earn 3 out of 5 stars, the kettlebells feel like they’ll hold up pretty well, but you may feel parts shifting around in use.
Some kettlebells allow you to adjust the weight with the simple twist of a handle, while others require tools to unscrew something to add or remove weights. The longer it takes to adjust the weight, the less convenient the kettlebell becomes.
For a 3 out of 5, you can change the weight by using a removable pin, and it’s a relatively quick and simple process.
Kettlebells are unique in that the shape of the ‘bell is what allows you to perform so many unique movements like swings, snatches, and more. For those who are used to the traditional cannonball form, using an unusual shape (a common occurrence with adjustable kettlebells) can make it impossible to perform the exercises you’re used to.
To earn 3 out of 5 stars for the shape, the kettlebell is mostly fine, but it may have a slightly unusual profile. Higher scores are awarded to those that feel very similar to traditional kettlebells.
To calculate a score for each product we review, we first spend as much time as possible taking it through a variety of workouts, testing the adjustment mechanism, durability, and more. After testing, we use our kettlebell testing methodology to score each product on a 1-5 scale for a variety of important categories like handle, construction, pricing, and more.
Each product we review is carefully tested by the GGR testing team, which is made up of certified personal trainers, strength coaches, nutrition coaches, gym owners, and all types of fitness enthusiasts. We’ve examined over a dozen of the most popular adjustable kettlebells, and we’re continually testing as many as we can get our hands on.
If you close your eyes (although we don’t advise it because kettlebells are heavy) when using the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells, you will think that you are using a regular kettlebell. The adjustment mechanism works quickly and efficiently, allowing you to make seamless transitions during your workouts.
What to Know Before You Buy
- This is meant to look, feel, and function just like a regular kettlebell.
- You can choose from one of three weight options, and each one replaces five individual kettlebells.
- The rubber bottom is a nice upgrade that provides additional protection for both your kettlebell and home gym flooring.
Is the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Worth It?
This is one of our favorite adjustable kettlebells on the market thanks to its familiar shape, durable construction, and relatively quick adjustment system.
RELATED: REP Fitness Discount Code
Kettlebell training has been shown1 to enhance strength, endurance, explosive power, and postural coordination, and we think they’re a great investment for home gym owners. However, there are plenty of others to consider, as well as standard kettlebells, so it’s not an automatic purchase for all home gym owners.
Here’s who we think should consider this kettlebell, as well as who should probably look for something else.
If you think this might be a good fit, keep reading to learn about the key features and specs of the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell.
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell: Key Features & Specs
| Price (Original MSRP) | Starts at $149.99 |
| Weight Range | 8-16 kg; 16-24 kg; 20-40 lbs |
| Weight Increments | 2 kg (4.4 lbs) or 5 lbs |
| Handle Diameter | 34.6 mm |
| Materials and Coating | Cast iron shell with matte powder coat |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Push-and-twist dial |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Experience Using the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell
For this review, our tester was GGR founder Cooper “Coop” Mitchell, a home gym equipment expert who has personally used and tested countless pieces of equipment over the years.
Coop’s been testing products since he started Garage Gym Reviews in 2014, and he’s tried many of the best kettlebells on the market. While I haven’t personally tried the REP kettlebells yet, I’ve used kettlebells countless times when I worked as a personal trainer in various gyms for six years, so I understand how they’re supposed to feel and function when performing traditional kettlebell exercises.
Coop put this kettlebell through a variety of workouts, testing the adjustment mechanism and comparing it to other adjustable options. We’ll get into the specific details and ratings for each category, but overall, Coop was very impressed, saying, “This isn’t an off-the-shelf kettlebell like we’ve seen from other companies; this is a very unique design.”
An adjustable kettlebell like this REP Fitness profile can be excellent for home gym enthusiasts. Space-saving perks aside, I really appreciate how quick and simple it is to toggle between working weights. Additionally, the handle is grippy enough that you shouldn’t have to worry about losing control mid-swing and sending your fitness tools through a nearby wall.
Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Rating
Construction
When it comes to construction, we consider the materials, shape, and coating, and the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell earns 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The kettlebell is cast iron with a powder-coated metal shell, which helps provide additional grip while training. The removable weights are inside the body of the kettlebell, so at any weight, the shape and feel will be the same. All removable weights are secured by a nylon thermoplastic fastener, which REP claims helps prevent any movement or clanging during training, which Coop found to be true.
Durability
For durability, we want to test how long a kettlebell should last, and this one earns a strong 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The cast-iron shell feels very rugged, and the only part that feels like it could eventually break is the plastic adjustment mechanism. However, we never experienced any issues (even after plenty of testing), and it feels quite sturdy in comparison to other adjustable options.
Coop did mention that he felt like the plastic gearing in the adjustment mechanism may wear down over time, but that it still felt pretty durable, overall. We’re not worried about a loose weight flying across the room during your next set of kettlebell swings.
Finally, the bottom is rubber and offers extra floor protection, which is a nice touch for those of us training in our homes rather than on commercial gym flooring.
RELATED: Upper-Body Kettlebell Workout
Adjustment Speed
As for the adjustment speed, Coop rated this a 5 out of 5. This is one of main categories where REP truly outshines the competition.
Coop said the mechanism is simple and quick to adjust by pushing and twisting the dial on top, and you can easily see the weight increment you’ve selected.
“It has a very easy adjustment system—you press the button, turn it, and change the weight,” Coop explains. “I think the reason I like using it so much is because it just has no friction.”
Weight Range
Kettlebell weights can vary greatly when looking at adjustable options, and thankfully, this one is available in three different weight range options. Two use kilograms, and one uses pounds—perfect for athletes following metric and imperial weight measurement standards.
The kilogram options range from 8 to 16 kilograms and 16 to 24 kilograms, while the third option ranges from 20 to 40 pounds. All three options have five weight increments, so you’re getting five kettlebells in one for tremendous versatility.
RELATED: Best Kettlebell Strength Workouts
Overall, these kettlebells earn a 4-out-of-5-star rating for the weight range. Serious lifters may need heavier weight options if they incorporate kettlebells into their strength training routine, but most users should be happy with these weight ranges.
Shape
The shape is one of our favorite aspects of this adjustable kettlebell, and we give it 5 out of 5 stars. While manufacturers like Bowflex and PowerBlock make adjustable kettlebells in different profiles, many prefer the traditional, competition-style shape. REP carefully designed the ‘bell, grip, materials, and movement-proof adjustment mechanism to make this feel just like the real thing.
“Kettlebells should work for swings, carries, snatches, presses, and Turkish get-ups—and not all adjustable kettlebells allow that,” Coop adds. “Thankfully, you can use this one just like you would any other kettlebell.”
Handle
The handle is another strong selling point of this kettlebell, and yet again, we give it 5 out of 5 stars. The handle has a diameter of 34.6 mm—nearly identical to the 34.87-mm handle found on most of the best standard kettlebells.
For explosive movements like cleans and snatches, the kettlebell handle needs to fit your hand well and provide plenty of grip. This one does an excellent job.
“If you closed your eyes, you wouldn’t know it was adjustable,” says Coop. “It feels just like a regular kettlebell, and is quiet with no rattling. The handle feels exactly like a cast iron kettlebell with good texture. I love it.”
RELATED: Adjustable Kettlebell vs. Standard
Price
This kettlebell starts at roughly $149.99 and can cost as much as $219.99 (at the time of writing), earning 4 out of 5 stars for pricing. It’s not cheap, but it’s a whole lot more affordable than buying five separate kettlebells.
Home gym owners who want a variety of weights, or beginners who don’t know how much weight they’ll need to use, can rest assured knowing that this space-saving kettlebell has enough options to get the job done.
Coop agrees, and notes, “In my opinion, this is the best value for most people.”
If you’re using adjustable kettlebells for deadlifts, you may need to buy two of these REP profiles if you want one in each hand, so that’s something to also consider when looking at the price point.
Customer Experience
REP’s customer experience earns a strong 5-out-of-5 star rating. It offers a 30-day return policy, as well as a lifetime warranty, which is fantastic when purchasing exercise equipment.
If you need to reach customer service, REP has you covered with plenty of options. You can email them, as well as call or text customer support at 720-420-1731 with live agents available Monday through Friday from 9AM to 5PM. MST (Saturdays from 8AM to 4PM MST).
Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there are 334 customer reviews on the REP Fitness site with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars, as well as a 4.6-out-of-5-star Amazon rating based on 192 reviews. Customers appreciate the build quality, durability, and ergonomics, noting that it feels very similar to standard kettlebells.
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Vs
While the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell may be the best option if you’re looking to mimic a traditional kettlebell experience, it’s certainly not the only option.
Another great option is the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell, and the main difference is the shape. Unlike REP, PowerBlock has given its kettlebell more of a cowbell-style design intended to save space.
It doesn’t feel exactly like a regular kettlebell, but our tester really enjoyed the flat shape, saying, “Most kettlebells are spherical, whereas this is relatively flat, making it more comfortable to rest on an arm or shoulder when performing certain exercises. The spherical ones sometimes can create discomfort through a more pinpointed pressure when against the body.”
If you want to stay with the traditional shape, the Bells Of Steel Adjustable Kettlebell is another good option to consider.
This one rivals REP in most categories, including the handle, construction, and durability. However, the adjustment mechanism is significantly slower, as you have to unscrew the bottom with an Allen wrench. This might offer better long-term durability, but it’ll take you longer to change weights, and the kettlebell costs more, too.
Read our full Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell review for more information.
| REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell | PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell | Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell | |
| Price (Original MSRP) | Starts at $149.99 | $199 or $349, depending on the size | $220.99 ($332.99 with expansion kit) |
| Weight Range | 8-16 kg; 16-24 kg; 20-40 lbs | 18-35 lbs (8.18-15 kg), 35-62 lbs (16-28kg) | 12-20.5 kg (32 kg maximum weight with expansion pack) |
| Weight Increments | 2 kg (4.4 lbs) or 5 lbs | 4-9 lbs | 0.5 kg/1.1 lbs |
| Handle Diameter | 34.6 mm | 32.77 mm | 35 mm |
| Materials and Coating | Cast iron shell with matte powder coat | Alloy steel | Steel shell, iron plates |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Push-and-twist dial | Magnetic pin | Internal weight plates |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 5-year warranty | Limited lifetime |
Final Verdict of Our REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Review
If you’re looking for an adjustable kettlebell that looks and feels nearly identical to a competition kettlebell, it’s hard to beat this REP Fitness offering. No matter which weight range you choose, you’re getting five kettlebells in one, the quality is high, and the lifetime warranty protects you against accidents.
This can be a fantastic choice for home gym owners, and Coop even went so far as to say these are the best value for the quality and the best adjustable kettlebells he’s ever used.
- The shape and handle feel nearly identical to standard kettlebells, making this a great choice for users accustomed to kettlebell training.
- While the plastic adjustment mechanism may wear down over time, it should last for quite a while with proper use and care.
- The rubber coating on the bottom protects your flooring and keeps your kettlebell safely in place when you set it down.
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell Review: FAQs
Do adjustable kettlebells work?
Yes, a well-designed adjustable kettlebell, like the ones from REP Fitness, Titan Fitness, Ironmaster, Kettlebell Kings, and more are built to function exactly like a normal kettlebell. Some of them may have an unusual shape, but plenty feel nearly identical to a traditional cannonball-shaped ‘bell.
How do I change the weight on my adjustable kettlebell?
Each brand uses different adjustment mechanisms and may feature a pin system, push-and-twist dial, or even removable weight plates. There are many ways to change the weight on an adjustable kettlebell, so you’ll need to consult the manufacturer.
What is the disadvantage of an adjustable kettlebell?
Depending on the design, the adjustment mechanism may wear down or break over time, especially if you’re regularly dropping it or otherwise handling it roughly. Some adjustable kettlebells also use unique shapes that don’t feel like a standard kettlebell, so you may find that the feel is different than you’re used to.
References
- Jaiswal, P. R., Ramteke, S. U., & Shedge, S. (2024). Enhancing Athletic Performance: A Comprehensive Review on Kettlebell Training. Cureus, 16(2), e53497. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.53497
