When looking to make the most of your home gym space, the best adjustable kettlebells can be convenient options for kettlebell enthusiasts combining multiple weights into one silhouette. To make the most of this convenience, though, you want a kettlebell with intuitive toggles such as the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell lineup. These free weights use a magnetic pin system for toggling through the four available working weights, all encased in a rugged steel shell for added durability.
In our opinion, this compact adjustable kettlebell can be a high-quality piece of home gym equipment for a slew of athletes. However, the cowbell shape of the profile may be less than desirable for some, including competitive athletes more accustomed to competition-style kettlebells. In this PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell review, we’ll go over this training gear’s specs, features, and in-gym qualities. For more information on how we test equipment for our round-ups and reviews, be sure to read the BarBend equipment testing methodology page.
Its compact, space-saving design and flat angle helps make presses or clean and jerks more comfortable. Also, its weight labels are color-coded for easy placement.
Main Takeaways
- PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells are available in two weight ranges — one silhouette is 18 to 35 pounds and another totals 35 to 62 pounds.
- Both silhouettes feature a 32.77-millimeter steel handle, which, per our tester, features a smooth yet tacky finish for improved grip and control.
- These adjustable kettlebells use a simple magnetic pin-locking system that keeps everything in place during swings, snatches, and other kettlebell exercises.
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell Specs
| Price | Starting at $169.99 |
| Product Dimensions | 5.75″ L x 4.25″ W x 10″ H (18-35lbs), 8″ L x 5.5″ W x 11.25″ H (35-62lbs) |
| Weight Range | 18-35lbs, 35-62lbs |
| Weights Per Kettlebell | 4 |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Handle Diameter | 32.77mm |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Magnetic pin |
The PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell is available in two silhouettes — one featuring a weight range between 18 and 35 pounds, and another with a weight range between 35 and 62 pounds. PowerBlock also includes the weight range in kilograms for each bell, with these metrics listed on the adjacent side of the profile. While deciding which weight range to choose may seem difficult for beginners, these increments do align with some of the best kettlebells in that the median is close to 1 pood — a Russian unit of measurement (often associated with kettlebell training) equating to roughly 36 pounds. (1)
If you want to perform high-rep intervals at a lower weight, consider the smaller 18- to 35-pound profile. For heavier lifts like deadlifts and max-effort swings, the larger option may be preferable. “Above all else, though, you should choose a weight range that aligns with your current strength totals,” says Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert contributor. “There’s no need to purchase a strength training tool that’s too heavy for you to use effectively.”
Regardless of your weight choice, the alloy steel shells of these PowerBlock kettlebells are built with durability in mind. The weight plates that allow for adjustable working totals are contained inside said shell and secured with a magnetic pin prior to training. When you select your weight, you simply slide the pin into the well-labeled mark at the side, lift the bell up, and the unchosen weight plates will remain on the floor. This can also serve as a mental marker for re-racking your kettlebell after you’ve completed your reps and sets.
In terms of shape, this kettlebell borrow inspiration from the PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbells in that they’re uniquely shaped when compared to other samples from the category. Unlike the bowling ball-esque figure of other adjustable kettlebells, these profiles more closely resemble a cowbell with two flat faces.
From my experience, this can create a comfortable sensation when racking these weights across your forearm for presses, and I don’t feel it impacts the overall balance during kettlebell swings or pulls. That said, performing moves like goblet squats can be tricky at first, so I recommend playing around with hand placement prior to your first session.
Speaking of grip, PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells both feature a handle diameter of 32.77 millimeters. This can be an approachable thickness for a wide range of hand sizes, and even aligns with the kettlebell handle diameter regulations set forth by USA Kettlebell Sport Lifting. (2) Now, this isn’t a competition-style kettlebell by any means, but it does help create some similarity between your home gym equipment and the bells you’d find at your local kettlebell training club.
Lastly, our tester, a certified exercise scientist, states that making adjustments with the magnetic steel selection pin is a breeze. “I appreciate that the pin length goes through the entirety of the weight plate, creating a stable profile that keeps everything in-place. The magnetic cap also helps ensure that the pin won’t come flying out of place during a heavy swing, thus resulting in some unwanted projectiles during workouts.”
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
Just as the best barbells aren’t plug-and-play for every athlete, there are some camps that may benefit more than others by adding a PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell to their home gym equipment roster. Below are some groups we feel are best suited for this compact free weight, as well as some that may be better served with a different profile.
Recommended for:
- Athletes that enjoy kettlebell training yet may not have the room necessary to store multiple kettlebells of different weights
- Beginners wanting a comfortable kettlebell profile that rests easily across their forearms during certain lifts
- People that value convenience and intuitiveness when swapping between kettlebell weights
Not Recommended for:
- Individuals interested in heavy kettlebell training above 62 pounds
- Those that prefer the spherical shape of traditional kettlebells
- Weightlifting enthusiasts that rarely use kettlebells in their training routines
Our Experience Training With the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
Like the over 20 kettlebells we’ve tested in the past, we put this PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell through various workout sessions to get a handle on its performance. We looked at key areas such as durability, convenience, compactness, and others in determining where this silhouette sits amongst some of the best home gym equipment, rating our findings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).
Quick, Simple Adjustments
One of the perks that adds to the versatility of this adjustable kettlebell is its simplified weight adjustments. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rates the system at 4 out of 5, “You don’t have to fuss with knobs, nuts, or bolts with this piece of equipment, making it a go-to for circuit training that will require different weight increments for different movements,” they say. “I also found no issues with the pin security as the magnetic cap kept everything in place during workouts.”
Having used these PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells in the past, I can confirm the ease of use, too. I also appreciate how PowerBlock lists the weight totals in both pounds and kilograms, depending on the kettlebell side you’re looking at. This can be beneficial for athletes who routinely measure their intensity in kilograms, or those following a specific workout program that’s measured in the metric scale.
However, we do note that the weight increments are not uniform across the 18- to 35-pound silhouette. The first three jumps are in increments of 4 pounds, while the final 26- to 35-pound increase is a factor of 9 pounds. This may come as a surprise to some, especially those who already train with some of the best adjustable dumbbells that feature a more uniform scale. That said, though, all weight jumps in the heavier 35- to 62-pound profile are in 9-pound increments.
Comfortable, Grippy Handle
According to Amanda Capritto, our expert contributor, “Kettlebells are fantastic tools for building grip strength, coordination and stability, and explosive strength.” Well, improving your grip strength can be all for naught if your bell’s coating is slippery and difficult to control, turning your set of snatches into a frantic call to a local repairman. Thankfully, that’s not the case with this alloy steel offering from PowerBlock.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, labels the coating featured on the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell as “smooth, but not slippery,” comparing the tackiness to traction or grip tape. “There’s no true knurling pattern across the handle, but I was easily able to work through my kettlebell exercises without fear of the weight flying out of my hands,” they add. In my experience, I’ve even used chalk with this adjustable kettlebell and found that the coating holds the substance well for that desirable locked-in feeling.
We score the handle design at a perfect 5 out of 5, too, given its comfortable diameter of 32.77 millimeters. According to competitive organizations such as USA Kettlebell Sport Lifting, competition-grade kettlebells should feature a handle diameter of no less than 32 millimeters. (2) While I’d doubt that anyone would mistake this PowerBlock silhouette for a competition-style kettlebell, it is nice to see that standards are still kept for those tackling the best kettlebell workouts from home rather than on the competition floor.
Space-Saving Conveniences
A rather natural benefit to the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell is that it allows lifters to make the most of their training space with one single piece of equipment. Rather than taking up your floor plan with multiple kettlebells at different weights, you get four working weights in a single profile. This can grant you extra room for other training staples, such as a weight bench, barbell, exercise bike, or anything else that aligns with your workout preferences.
Like other examples of the best compact exercise equipment, though, these adjustable kettlebells do have their limitations. For one, the max weight is 62 pounds and there is no room to add on mass for heavier lifts. If you’re a stronger athlete that routinely kettlebell deadlifts over 90 pounds, you may be underserved with even the largest PowerBlock profile. On the opposite end, I always prefer to have lighter kettlebells on-hand for quick movements and warm-up reps, typically 13 pounds and below. You do not have that luxury with these bells as the shell alone weighs either 18 or 35 pounds.
However, we still rate the compactness at 4.5 out of 5 given the space-saving benefits of the adjustable design. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, also thinks highly of the unique cowbell shape and its influence on this kettlebell’s storage capabilities. “Not only does the flat face feel comfortable across your forearm, but the slimmer dimensions can take up less space than other spherical bells you’ll find on the market,” they note.
What to Consider Before Buying the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
Amanda Capritto, our expert contributor, states, “Adjustable kettlebells provide greater access to kettlebell training with less money and less space compared to a full set of fixed kettlebells.” As such, there are a few considerations worth thinking through when deciding to add one of these compact home training tools to your cart.
- Weight Range: Like the best weight plates, you want to ensure that your adjustable kettlebell’s weight range can support your training goals. Capritto notes, “I recommend looking for an adjustable kettlebell with which you can do movements like single-arm shoulder press (lighter), swings (heavier), and deadlifts (even heavier), particularly if your kettlebell is going to be one of the only weighted items in your home gym.”
- Adjustment Mechanism: An adjustable kettlebell’s adjustment mechanism can dictate how seamless your workout setups are — more convoluted systems that take great effort or multiple minutes to lock in may not be efficient for circuit training or for programs that require multiple weights. Take a close look at the locking mechanism of your kettlebell and think about how much effort is required when toggling through your available range.
- Handle Diameter: While not always listed online, your kettlebell’s handlebar can influence your grip strength and how well you control the weight through movement. From our experience, a diameter between 32 and 35 millimeters should be comfortable yet approachable enough for most hand sizes.
- Training Goals: You may not even need an adjustable kettlebell if your training preferences don’t include kettlebell workouts. If you’re more accustomed to strength training with dumbbells or other free weights, it can be beneficial to start with those items and then build into other interests as they pop up.
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell Vs. Competitors
While there are fewer adjustable kettlebell silhouettes on the market than your standard kettlebell, that doesn’t mean there are only a few profiles to choose from. Below, we’ve brought together the statistics from two comparable bells we feel match up well to the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell — the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell and BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell. Read below to see how these samples stack up against one another and think about which features, weight ranges, and adjustment mechanisms suit your preferences best.
| PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell | REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell | BowFlex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell | |
| Price | Starting at $169.99 | Starting at $149.99 | $149 |
| Product Dimensions | 5.75″ L x 4.25″ W x 10″ H (18-35lbs), 8″ L x 5.5″ W x 11.25″ H (35-62lbs) | Not listed | 8.8″ L x 7″ W x 12.5″ H |
| Weight Range | 18-35lbs, 35-62lbs | 8-16kg, 16-24kg, 20-40lbs | 8-40lbs |
| Weights Per Kettlebell | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| Material | Alloy steel | Cast iron | Plastic, steel |
| Handle Diameter | 32.77mm | 34.6-35mm | 28mm |
| Adjustment Mechanism | Magnetic pin | Push-and-turn dial | Weight selection dial |
Ordering and Assembling the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
Ordering a PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell for your own home gym mimics your typical online transaction. Choose your desired weight range, add it to your cart, and proceed to checkout. Prices for this adjustable dumbbell start at $169.99 for the 18- to 35-pound silhouette, while the heavier 35- to 62-pound profile costs $299 on powerblock.com.
If you’d prefer to pay these totals over time, PowerBlock does offer financing packages through its affiliation with Shop Pay in partnership with Affirm. Biweekly or monthly payments can be chosen, allowing you to space out your expenses over a longer period. Interest rates range from 0-36% APR. Payment options through Shop Pay Installments are subject to an eligibility check.
As far as assembly is concerned, the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell comes pre-assembled, so you can start reaping the benefits of kettlebell training after unboxing.
Places to Buy the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells (also marketed as PowerBlock Pro Adjustable Kettlebells) are available online directly from the brand’s retail site. Additionally, you can find these adjustable kettlebell profiles on select third-party retailers including Amazon and DICK’S Sporting Goods.
[Related: PowerBlock Promo Code]
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
Since 1993, PowerBlock has been a staple of home gym equipment thanks to its easily recognizable adjustable dumbbells. In addition to adjustable dumbbells and kettlebells, the brand also offers key fitness accessories including resistance bands, battle ropes, weight benches, and more. You can reach PowerBlock with any customer inquiries by calling (800)-997-3999 or by visiting powerblock.com/pages/contact. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
There are limited customer reviews for the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell on the brand’s site, but the profiles have garnered positive remarks on such retailers as Amazon, earning a 4.7 out of 5 rating based on nearly 220 responses. “This is great. Very sturdy, very easy to use, and gets as heavy as I want it to,” notes one positive customer review.
Warranties
When purchased directly from the brand. PowerBlock offers a 5-year warranty for its Adjustable Kettlebells against any defects in materials or workmanship. Purchasers will need to register their product with PowerBlock within 30 days of purchase to be eligible for repair or replacement.
Final Thoughts on PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
Given its simple locking mechanism, comfortable handle design, and slim profile, the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell can be a perfect silhouette for kettlebell enthusiasts looking to take their training into compact spaces. The flat faces of the cowbell design sit comfortably across your forearm, and the magnetic steel pin ensures your weights won’t fall apart as you try and perfect your kettlebell snatch. The shape may not be desirable for competition needs, but for breaking a sweat in your personal home gym, we feel this bell rings true.
When looking to purchase an adjustable kettlebell for your space, be sure to choose a silhouette with a workable weight range relative to your fitness levels. There’s always room to grow, but a heavy weight can be a motivational nightmare when just getting started. Do a pulse check on your workout goals, find a suitable adjustment mechanism for your needs, and get into the swing of things with this beneficial training discipline.
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell FAQs
How do adjustable kettlebells work?
Adjustable kettlebells work by utilizing stackable or removable weight plates within a base or shell, similar to adjustable dumbbells. Plates are secured to the handle and frame through a locking mechanism, often in the form of a selection pin, turn-style dial, or fastening bolt.
How much does the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell cost?
The PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell is available in two weight ranges (18 to 35 pounds and 35 to 62 pounds) with costs starting at $169.99.
Are adjustable kettlebells worth it?
Adjustable kettlebells are a popular option for home gyms since they combine the weight increments of a traditional kettlebell set into one singular profile. If you’re low on available training space, these silhouettes can support your workouts by keeping real estate needs low without compromising your available working weights.
How heavy are PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells?
PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells are available in two sizes. The smaller bell carries a weight range of 18 to 35 pounds, and the larger silhouette features a range between 35 and 62 pounds.
References
- Dictionary.com. (n.d.). Pood definition & meaning. Dictionary.com. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/pood
- International Union of Kettlebell Lifting. (2023). AAU US Kettlebell Sport Lifting Rules for Judging Competitions.
