Cast Iron vs Competition Kettlebells | UK Guide

Walking into the world of functional training can be overwhelming. You know you want to build strength and endurance, and you know a kettlebell is the most versatile tool to get you there. But when you browse the Home Gym Deals catalogue, you are met with a choice that stumps many beginners and seasoned lifters alike: Cast Iron or Competition?

They might look similar—a ball of iron with a handle—but the differences in design, feel, and price can significantly impact your workout experience. Whether you are swinging a hefty 20kg kettlebell or learning the ropes with a lighter weight, choosing the right style is crucial for your comfort and progression.

This guide breaks down the distinct differences between these two styles to help you decide which one belongs in your home gym.

The Classic Cast Iron Kettlebell

When most people picture a kettlebell, they are picturing the classic cast iron style. These are molded from a single piece of metal (typically iron) and are the most common type found in commercial gyms and home setups across the UK.

The Characteristics

The defining feature of a cast iron kettlebell is that its physical size changes with its weight. An 8kg kettlebell is physically much smaller than a 16kg kettlebell. As the weight increases, the bell gets larger, and the handle typically gets thicker.

The Benefits

• Handle Width: The handles on cast iron bells are generally wider. This is excellent for two-handed exercises, such as the two-handed swing or goblet squats, as it provides plenty of room to grip comfortably.

• Texture: They usually have a textured powder coat or matte finish, which holds chalk well and provides a secure grip even when your hands get sweaty.

• Price: Generally, cast iron is more affordable to manufacture, making it a budget-friendly option for building a full set.

Who is it for?

If you are focused on general fitness, two-handed swings, and basic strength movements, cast iron is a fantastic choice. Beginners often find them less intimidating, especially when starting with a smaller 10kg kettlebell.

The Competition Kettlebell

Competition kettlebells are designed for you guessed it kettlebell sport (Girevoy Sport). They are built to a universal standard to ensure consistency for athletes who perform high-repetition snatches and jerks.

The Characteristics

The most confusing aspect for newcomers is that competition bells are all the same size, regardless of weight. A 12kg kettlebell has the exact same dimensions as a 32kg bell. They are made of steel rather than iron and are usually color-coded to indicate weight (e.g., pink for 8kg, blue for 12kg, yellow for 16kg).

The Benefits

• Consistency: Because the size never changes, your technique doesn't have to change as you get stronger. The bell sits on your forearm in the exact same spot whether you are pressing light or heavy.

• Handle Diameter: The handle thickness is uniform (usually 33mm or 35mm). This is thinner than heavy cast iron handles, which helps prevent grip fatigue during long sets.

• Balance: Steel construction often allows for better balance during dynamic movements like the snatch.

Who is it for?

If you are interested in technical lifting, one-armed movements, or plan to compete, this is the standard. Even for general kettlebell fitness, many users prefer the consistent feel of steel competition bells.

The Smart Alternative: Adjustable Kettlebells

Space is often a premium in UK homes. If you can't decide between weights, or you simply don't have the floor space for a row of iron, an adjustable kettlebell is a game-changer.

The adjustable kettlebell UK market has exploded recently because it solves the problems of cost and storage. A high-quality adjustable option from Home Gym Deals allows you to shift from a warm-up weight to a heavy working weight in seconds. It mimics the shape of a competition bell, giving you that consistent feel without needing a rack full of equipment.

Detailed Comparison: Which Feels Better?

To make the right choice, you have to look at how the bell interacts with your body during a workout.

Handle Shape and Grip

Cast iron handles are looped and wide. If you have larger hands or prefer two-handed swings, you will appreciate the extra space. However, the handle thickness grows with the weight. A 20kg kettlebell in cast iron might have a very thick handle that is hard to grip if you have smaller hands.

Competition handles are more "square" and narrower. They are optimized for one-handed insertion. If you try to cram two hands into a competition handle for a swing, your pinky fingers might get squashed.

The "Rack" Position

When you hold the kettlebell at chest height (the rack position), the ball rests against your forearm.

• Cast Iron: Because the shape varies, the pressure point changes. A small 8kg kettlebell might dig into your wrist bone, while a larger one bridges over it.

• Competition: The large, uniform body distributes the weight over a larger surface area on your forearm. This is generally more comfortable for overhead presses and cleans.

Selecting the Right Weight for Your Goals

Regardless of the style you choose, selecting the correct starting weight is vital. At Home Gym Deals, we generally recommend the following progressions:

• Beginners: Start with an 8kg kettlebell or 10kg kettlebell to learn the mechanics of the hinge and the squat.

• Intermediate: Once comfortable, step up to a 12kg kettlebell for upper body movements and a 16kg kettlebell for lower body power.

• Advanced: For serious strength gains, the 20kg kettlebell and beyond will challenge your stability and power.

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

The battle between cast iron and competition comes down to your training style. If you want a versatile tool for two-handed swings and general strength at a great price, the cast iron range at Home Gym Deals is your best bet. If you value consistency, plan on doing a lot of overhead work, or want to perfect your one-arm technique, invest in competition bells.

And for those short on space but big on ambition? An adjustable kettlebell offers the best of both worlds.

Ready to upgrade your training? Visit Home Gym Deals today to explore our full range of high-quality kettlebells designed to last a lifetime.