Where to Buy Kettlebells
This is a guest article by Straight to the Bar's Scott Bird. Where to buy kettlebells. When I bought my first kettlebell, tracking it down took a fair bit of work. To save postage, I ended up getting it from a local guy who sold them occasionally to martial artists in the area. That was a couple of years ago. Although the situation's gradually improving, tracking down a decent kettlebell supplier can take quite a bit of effort. Listed below are a number of places - both online and offline, in many parts of the world - which will happily sell you a bell or 3. After all, the fun is in using it. NB: if you're unsure of which size(s) to get, here's a quick guide.
Offline sources
The cheapest way to buy kettlebells usually involves physically picking it up somewhere. They're heavy things, and postage can be a sizeable portion of the final bill. Where possible, consider these :
Gyms and Martial Arts clubs
A source which is often overlooked is your local gym or Martial Arts group. If they're already using kettlebells, just ask them if they have any for sale (occasionally they get a good deal on a bulk lot, and have a couple of 'spares'); and where they buy theirs.
Fitness expositions and seminars
This is perhaps my favourite offline source - as it's reasonably predictable. The expo or seminar is planned months in advance, so you'll be able to determine the dates, times and exhibitors. Even if you can't make it to the actual expo or seminar, check in with the exhibitors to see if they have any kettlebells for sale. Good deals are often found this way.
Gyms / Martial Arts groups which are closing down
Keep your eyes open for local gyms or martial arts clubs which are closing down, disbanding or relocating. Often they will have equipment for sale - including kettlebells. Note : it usually doesn't last long, so get in quick.
Garage sales
This is more a matter of luck than anything, but it's good to keep an eye out. If someone is selling strength-training equipment at all (especially plates, for some reason); there may just be a kettlebell on offer.
A friend of a friend
Lastly we come to the 'friend of a friend' approach. If you know of someone who has a disused kettlebell lying around, make them an offer. Quickly.
A quick note on buying second-hand kettlebells
The design of the kettlebell hasn't changed much over the centuries. A bell from 200 years ago is just as useful as a new one. Also, they're extremely tough. It doesn't matter if it's been knocked about, or left outside for years. A second-hand bell is fine. As with most things, there is a tendency when selling second-hand kettlebells to price them cheaper than new ones. If you're buying, this is very good news indeed. If available, go second-hand.
Online sources
Buying things online can have real advantages. Yes, you'll be paying for postage (I've listed suitable online suppliers for various locations below); but you'll often receive 'extras' in the form of books or DVDs. If you're getting your first kettlebell, a bit of 'how to use it' information is often very well received. If you're buying a second (or third, or fourth...) kettlebell, keep in mind that large orders often work out cheaper. Where possible, buy several bells for a club, gym or a group of friends. The postage is usually less, there may be bonus items, and - depending on the number you buy - volume discounts may apply. In some cases, you'll be able to take advantage of both the online and offline benefits. Think of bulk lots on auction sites such as eBay, and you'll see what I mean. If the goods are nearby (and you can pick them up yourself), all the better.
Around the world
Here's a quick look at my favourite kettlebell suppliers from around the world. I've actually used a number of these (one of the upsides of living in several countries); the others have been recommended by various friends and fitness enthusiasts. If you'd like to suggest another one, please leave a comment below.
Australia
If you live in any of the larger cities, the offline sources mentioned above are all applicable. Additionally, the following online supplier is well worth checking out :
- Australian Kettlebells (if you're in Brisbane, check out The Courage Corner)
United States and Canada
In addition to the usual offline sources, kettlebells are available (at least in the more common weights) in department stores such as Target. Online, take a look at the following sites :
- DragonDoor
- Art of Strength
- Sissel Online (these are also available via Amazon)
Great Britain
Again, the offline sources apply; as do the following online suppliers :
Continental Europe
Once again, the offline sources are the same; the major online suppliers are :
Elsewhere
For those in other parts of the world, a major consideration (when purchasing kettlebells online) is the cost of shipping. Accordingly, the nearest supplier is often the cheapest. Take a look at the online players already noted (DragonDoor, Art of Strength and London Kettlebells) and get an idea of shipping costs. It can make an enormous difference. Many of these companies also have affiliates in other countries. Check out the lists on the above sites, or simply search for something like 'kettlebells denmark shipping' (replace 'denmark' with your current location).
Final thought on where to buy kettlebells
As you can see, there are a number of places - both online and offline - to buy kettlebells. Now the fun really begins.
Further reading
Once you've got your new kettlebell, here are a few pieces which may come in handy :
- Kettlebell exercise index
- How to paint a kettlebell (one of the free ebooks on Straight to the Bar)
- Making heavier kettlebells
- New to kettlebell training?
- Things which deserve more attention : kettlebells
Scott is the editor of strength-training site Straight to the Bar, and all-around fitness enthusiast. When he's not in the kitchen stuffing his face, he can generally be found engaging in cruel and unusual punishment in the backyard.
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