Amazon probably doesn’t need much of an introduction, and it’s probably not that surprising that they sell their own fitness equipment. Amazon’s AmazonBasics line of products span across multiple markets, and today we’re excited to try out one of their kettlebells
In this review, we’ll be looking at the AmazonBasics Enamel Kettlebell and breaking down what, if anything, makes it different. The design of this kettlebell is simple, and I’d best describe it as a “no frills kettlebell”, which makes sense when you consider it’s from the AmazonBasics line. Throughout my review I’ll be assessing this kettlebell’s construction, performance, durability, price, and much more.
This cost-efficient kettlebell comes with an enamel finish that's slightly easier on the hands
Construction
Finish & Design
In terms of design, this kettlebell is exactly how I’d describe your run of the mill standard kettlebell. Amazon states that it’s crafted with a high-quality cast iron, which tends to be standard across the board for kettlebell construction. Personally, I didn’t feel much difference between this kettlebell’s iron construction and others I’ve tried from completely fitness focused companies.
The one difference from this kettlebell and others on the market is the finish Amazon uses. They use an enamel paint, which is a paint that air drys on objects to give them a glossy appearance and smooth texture. In my opinion, this made the kettlebell feel similar to handlebars you’d find on playgrounds that have the smooth and glossy paint. The maximal width of this bell comes in around 8.8″ and the height is 10.6″.
Handle
Amazon doesn’t explicitly list this kettlebell handle’s diameter, but I thought it felt similar to most competition kettlebells, which offer around a 33mm diameter. I think it will match multiple types of strength athletes as far as hand sizes. Their kettlebell’s handle is designed slightly taller compared to other models, and they state this is supposed to increase one’s ability to grip the handle from multiple angles (ex: gripping the sides for goblet squats).
I was somewhat indifferent on the enamel finish and thought it was a different feature for a kettlebell handle, but didn’t feel strongly about it when it came to my personal preference. The one positive I could see someone liking about the handle is that it’s decently forgiving on the hand. It’s not overly rough like some powder coats, but the smooth finish did increase this kettlebell’s friction.
Performance
For performance, we use Russian Kettlebell Swings to assess a kettlebell’s performance with and without chalk to keep consistency in our reviews. With so many different types of handles, we like this movement because it’s dynamic and relatable to multiple levels of strength athletes.
Without Chalk
If you’re not a fan of chalk, or don’t have any for a workout, then I think you’ll be pleasantly happy with this kettlebell’s performance. The enamel paint is glossy and somewhat slick, but it didn’t hinder my ability to grip the kettlebell. Amazon has put small grooves in the handle, so that also helped with performance. My only concern is possibly friction from prolonged use due to the smooth texture, but that’s only in extreme scenarios.
With Chalk
If you asked me to describe how this kettlebell performed with chalk in one word, then I’d say it was “okay”. The whole point of chalk is to increase grip, but with the enamel paint on this kettlebell, I almost felt like the chalk was nullified. Yes, it helped a bit, yet not to the degree of some powder coat finishes. You won’t be disappointed, I would just recommend not relying on chalk when it comes to performance improvement with this bell.
Who Can Benefit
In reality, every strength athlete could benefit with kettlebell training, as they’re a versatile means of training. Although, if we had to hone in on a couple niches who could benefit with this specific kettlebell, then two populations come to mind.
First, the general fitness enthusiast. I’ve mentioned this throughout the whole article, but this kettlebell is exactly as the brand states, basic. It’s simple, doesn’t come with additional frills, and has an affordable price attached to it. I think it’s a good option for anyone who enjoys kettlebell training. Second, anyone who’s in the market to buy their own equipment and possibly build a home gym or gym. This kettlebell is competitively priced and comes with the AmazonBasics 1-year warranty.
Benefit to Whom | Rationale |
General Fitness Enthusiast | Simple Design, No Frills |
Home & Public Gym Owner | Affordable & 1-Year Warranty |
Durability
Over the course of our review, I never sensed an issue with this kettlebell’s durability. I wasn’t surprised, as there’s really not much to this kettlebell, so unless you drop it on concrete, then I can’t see it breaking down quickly. My one potential concern in regards to the durability of this kettlebell involves the enamel paint. This form of paint is known to be vulnerable, but I’d be curious to see how it holds up with repetitive use and possible drops to the ground.
Price
In terms of price, you can expect to pay around $62.00 for this kettlebell. For a 50-lb kettlebell, this is a pretty good price. Compared to others on the market at this weight, it’s a pretty competitive kettlebell. Not to mention, it comes attached with the AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty, which is a nice perk on top of the already more affordable price.
This cost-efficient kettlebell comes with an enamel finish that's slightly easier on the hands
In Conclusion
Honestly, I was decently happy with the AmazonBasic Enamel Kettlebell. I didn’t have specific expectations going into this review due to Amazon not being a “fitness focused” company, but they make a pretty good kettlebell. Granted, it’s not as nice as some of the powder coat, or competition focused bells I’ve tried as far as hand feel, but I thought it fit the bill well for the general fitness enthusiast. In addition, it’s competitively priced, so it has that going for it.
If your main concern is simply owning a kettlebell and you are impartial to kettlebell specifics, then I think the AmazonBasics Enamel Kettlebell could be a good fit for you.