The Bowflex SelectTech 840 solves one specific problem: having six kettlebells worth of functionality in the footprint of one. The twist-dial adjustment is genuinely fast, the storage is unmatched, and at $159 CAD it costs less than two quality cast iron kettlebells. The trade-off is a plastic shell that can't handle drops, a 40-pound ceiling that intermediate lifters will outgrow, and handle proportions that feel different from traditional bells.
9 mentions · 2 threadslast mention Nov 2024
Real comments from Reddit, linked to the original thread. Nothing paraphrased.
The bowflex kettlebell's shape isn't really conducive to learning the more advanced kettlebell movements. Even though you're a total beginner & may start just learning the swing, as you progress to Cleans, presses & snatches, the shape of the bowflex is going to work against you & even hurt. It's a puzzling design. It only works for Swings really, and the heaviest weight available is 40lbs so very very light.
The bells of steel adjustable is so much of a better purchase it's unbelievable. 1000/1000 do the bells of steel.
Faster to change is the only advantage, BoS is an actual competition kettlebell shape not a facsimile. Higher range, smaller increments, real shape, probably more durable, higher quality, looks better.
Bells of Steel without hesitation. Great product, and BoS have always been quick and helpful on the support end when I have questions. The Bowflex isn't a KB period.
The Bowflex version is quicker to adjust the weight but it will break if you drop it. The internals have a bit too much plastic. The competition style adjustable kettlebells are probably going to last for the rest of your life.
Kettlebell > Pursebell. I wish someone invented a legit quick change adjustable kettlebell, but that ain't it lol.
I just weighed it on a scale. The lowest setting should weigh 8lbs. It weighs 8.6lbs after leaking on me. So that’s 0.6 - 1lb more than it should weigh (assuming my scale is accurate). That would support that water got in it.
That Bowflex bullshit isn’t even a kettlebell. BoS is. I have had a pair for over a year now. Endless possibilities. And they are true competition style bells.
My kettlebell just starting leaking water during certain exercises. I didn’t even know it had water in it. It’s an adjustable weight kettlebell, and the water seems to be only in the very top part which weighs 8lbs.
r/kettlebell's verdict in our sample is unanimous — nine mentions, nine negative — and it hasn't softened on review. Owners report the adjustable shell doesn't swing like a real kettlebell, the handle geometry works against cleans, presses, and snatches (and can hurt), weight accuracy drifts when water intrudes into the top chamber, and the plastic internals aren't built to survive a drop. Nearly every comparison thread ends the same way: commenters redirect newcomers to Bells of Steel or cast iron without hesitation, calling the Bowflex a "pursebell" rather than a true kettlebell. If you want actual kettlebell training, buy cast iron or a competition-style adjustable; the 840 only makes sense as a compact loader for swings and goblet-style work where shape matters less.