Comparing Pro Kettlebell Handles

Pro Kettlebell offers three models: International Apollo, Made in USA Apollo, and Made in USA Atlas.

Each model features our:

• Patented ergonomic surface for comfort and alignment
• Consistent size and shape across all weights to help with technique
• Hollow-body design, which keeps the center of mass as high as possible for balance and smooth movement while the bell is in flight
• Compatibility with our magnetic chip weights, making it easy to move up or down in weight between sets nearly instantly

However, in addition to other finishing details, each model features slightly different handle specifications.

International Apollo

Handle shape: Round

Handle dimensions: 35 mm

Texture: All-over smooth grind

Coating: Clear coat

Coating benefit: Helps prevent rust

Window size: Tightest of the three

Best suited for: Kettlebell sport and single-hand insertion with maximum leverage

Made in USA Apollo

Handle shape: Oval

Handle dimensions: 34 mm tall × 33 mm wide

Texture: Smooth top and bottom with lightly textured sides

Coating: None; raw metal

Finish benefit: Holds chalk exceptionally well and improves grip and control

Window size: Smaller than Atlas and larger than International Apollo

Best suited for: A balanced combination of sport and fitness training

Made in USA Atlas

Handle shape: Oval

Handle dimensions: 33 mm tall × 32 mm wide

Texture: Smooth top and bottom with lightly textured sides

Coating: None; raw metal

Finish benefit: Holds chalk exceptionally well and improves grip and control

Window size: Largest of the three

Best suited for: Two-handed holds and a wide variety of fitness exercises

Which Handle Should I Choose?

Choosing the right handle isn’t just about the handle itself. It’s about the whole bell and what you’re training for.

The International Apollo is available in 8 kg (pink), 12 kg (blue), 16 kg (yellow), 20 kg (purple), 24 kg (green), 28 kg (orange), and 32 kg (red). It is made overseas, which helps keep the price lower. It has a round handle with a smooth, clear-coated finish that resists rust and provides a consistent feel. If you want an affordable, competition-style bell, it’s a great option.

The Made in USA Apollo is our premium alternative to the International Apollo. We offer the same 8–32 kg weights and a variety of finish options, including limited and special editions, competition colors, and a high-polish clear coat. The Made in USA Apollo has a subtly oval handle, which makes a hook grip easier and reduces grip fatigue. The handle is unfinished iron, and the bell receives industrial coatings and a level of hand-finishing we can’t provide overseas.

The Made in USA Atlas is made with the same high-end finishing standards, but it starts lighter at 4 kg/9 lb and tops out at 24 kg/53 lb. It’s great for kettlebell sport for smaller-framed individuals—we recommend it for those under 5'8"—as well as for people using kettlebells for a wide variety of fitness exercises and two-handed movements. If you are accustomed to compact, hardstyle kettlebells and won’t be using kettlebells heavier than 53 pounds, you’ll probably prefer Atlas.

For the best value and a true competition feel, choose International Apollo.

For the highest-quality finish and an elite-level competitive kettlebell lifting advantage, choose Made in USA Apollo.

For general fitness, women or smaller-framed sport lifters, or lighter starting weights, Atlas is a great fit.

All three perform. All three are among the most comfortable, thoughtfully engineered, and versatile kettlebells in the world. It’s simply a matter of which model best suits your goals.