If you're like most people, you want to get a great workout without having to leave your house. Building a home gym has become a popular choice for many people because you can customize your gym to your exact preferences, which is useful when you are buying gym equipment for a small space. Plus, you can shop around for budget-friendly gym equipment that can add more variety to your training routine. You can even invest in equipment that isn't available at your local gym and you don't have to share it with anyone. Unless you want to, of course. But what should you include in your home gym? If you've already decked out your gym with an all-in-one gym set and some weight plates, then a slam ball can be a great addition to your gym.
Most traditional pieces of equipment like gym pulley machines, power racks, and free weights are fantastic for building strength, muscle, and endurance. However, they're not as useful for functional training. This is where slam balls shine. Slam balls are versatile and fantastic for a variety of training methods, including explosive strength and functional training. Not to mention that they can double as resistance for many exercises such as squats, lunges, overhead presses, and even core exercises. When shopping for a slam ball, you'll need to consider factors such as the weight, size, and durability of the slam ball. To help you buy the best slam balls for your home gym, we've put together our top picks of the best slam balls so you can shop with ease.
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The Best Slam Balls - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Slam Ball: REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball
- Best Budget Slam Ball: TRX Training Slam Ball
- Best Slam Ball for Beginners: Rogue Echo Slam Ball
- Most Durable Slam Ball: Titan Fitness Rubber Slam Ball
- Best Slam Ball for Grip: POWER GUIDANCE Slam Ball
- Most Versatile Slam Ball: Titan Rubber Tread Slam Ball
- Best Quality Slam Ball: ROGUE MK D-BALLS
Best Overall Slam Ball - REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70 lbs.
- Material: Sand and rubber
Looking for a functional workout tool that can help you achieve a wide range of fitness goals? Check out the REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball. From wall balls to overhead throws, the REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball can help you build strength, improve explosiveness, burn calories, and even let off some steam. This slam ball features a textured grippy shell to ensure a stable grip, and it is filled with sand instead of air, which not only prevents bounce but also creates a soft, shifting feel. The dead bounce feature makes this slam ball ideal for slamming into floors or walls without risking a bounce-back that could injure you. Additionally, these slam balls are available in several weights ranging from 5 pounds to 70 pounds, ideal for a wide range of trainees.
The diameter of the slam ball varies by weight from 9 inches to 14 inches, so you can easily find a slam ball that is the right size for a comfortable grip. The REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball also comes with a full, one-year warranty for home use and six months for commercial use. We like that the ball is made with a double thick shell and a reinforced air valve for extra durability, so you can work out confidently knowing your slam ball will withstand even the toughest of use. The textured grippy shell, multiple weight options, and double thick shell make the REP Fitness V2 Slam Ball the winner for the best overall slam ball.
What We Like
- 1-year warranty for home use and a 6-month warranty for commercial use
- The double thick shell and reinforced valve for extra durability
- Low weight options for beginners
What We Don't Like
- No treads or grooves for a better grip
- Weight options only go up to 70 lbs.
Best Budget Slam Ball - TRX Training Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 6 ,8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50 lbs.
- Material: Sand and rubber
If you need a budget-friendly slam ball that can still handle a good amount of abuse, then the TRX Training Slam Ball could be exactly what you're looking for. The TRX slam ball features a rubber-textured tread outer for a solid, comfortable grip that is slip resistant and long-lasting. So even if your hands get sweaty or clammy during your workouts, you'll still be able to get a good hold on the ball. Additionally, the ball is filled with sand, which makes it 100% non-bouncy and ideal for those intense slams into floors and walls for a great workout.
The TRX slam ball is available in weights ranging from 6 pounds to 50 pounds, so they're great for novice and intermediate trainers. We like that these slam balls can be used for a variety of exercises to train your full body, including your core, back, and arms. The durable construction and low price make the TRX Slam Ball our top pick for the best budget slam ball.
What We Like
- Reasonable price point for a good quality slam ball
- Rubberized tread for greater grip
- Low weight options for beginners
What We Don't Like
- The slam balls are only available up to 50 pounds which may be too light for advanced trainees
- No commercial warranty
Best Slam Ball for Beginners - Rogue Echo Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 10,15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 lbs.
- Material: Rubber
New to slam balls and not sure which one to pick? The Rogue Echo Slam Ball is a great option for beginners who want to incorporate slam balls into their weekly training routine. These slam balls are extremely durable and have been made and tested for intense abuse with a grip-friendly rubberized exterior shell for a solid grip.
You'll appreciate that these slam balls can double as traditional medicine balls, as well, which makes them ideal if you are a beginner who has just started building a home gym and doesn't want to buy too many pieces of equipment. The Echo Slam Balls are available in weights from 10 pounds up to 50 pounds, so they're great for any fitness level. We like that the slam ball comes with a two-year warranty, so you have peace of mind that your ball will be replaced if it breaks.
What We Like
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Rubberized exterior for improved grip
- Dead bounce feature for safety
What We Don't Like
- Weights start at 10 lbs. which may be too heavy for some trainees
- Only available up to 50 lbs. which may be too light for more advanced trainees
BUY: Rogue Echo Slam Ball
Most Durable Slam Ball - Titan Fitness Rubber Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 lbs.
- Material: Rubber
Durability is the name of the game and the Titan Slam Ball comes out on top. This slam ball features a rubberized exterior that is extremely durable and prevents blowouts during intense slamming sessions. The textured outer also provides a nice grip, making it fantastic for a variety of exercises, including slamming, throwing, or even using it as a weight for your resistance training exercises. It's available in several sizes ranging from 10 pounds to 60 pounds, so you'll be able to find a slam ball for your strength and fitness level. The Titan Slam Ball is an ideal way to release energy and improve your strength, coordination, and balance.
What We Like
- Durable rubberized exterior for a longer lasting ball
- Textured outer for a great grip
- Can be used as a medicine ball and a slam ball
What We Don't Like
- No warranty
- Weights only go up to 60 lbs. which may not be challenging enough for advanced athletes
BUY: Titan Fitness Rubber Slam Ball
Best Slam Ball for Grip - POWER GUIDANCE Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 lbs.
- Material: Rubber and sand
The POWER GUIDANCE Slam Ball is an impressive choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable piece of exercise equipment with a great grip. It's filled with high-density fine sand, which prevents bouncing and enhances ball sturdiness. The ball's outer shell is made of tough, wear-resistant rubber, and its special tread pattern provides a slip-resistant surface that is also easy on the hands.
The Power Guidance slam ball is available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 6 pounds to 30 pounds, making it suitable for most fitness levels. With its durable construction and slip-resistant tread, the POWER GUIDANCE Slam Ball is an essential piece of equipment for any serious workout regimen and our top pick for the best slam ball for grip.
What We Like
- Filled with high-density sand for extra sturdiness and balance
- Special slip resistant tread pattern for improved grip
- Lighter weights available for beginners
What We Don't Like
- Only available up to 30 lbs. which may not be suitable for stronger trainees
- No warranty
Most Versatile Slam Ball - Titan Rubber Tread Slam Ball
SPECS
- Weight: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 150 lbs.
- Material: Rubber and sand
Looking for a versatile, functional fitness training ball that can take a beating? Look no further than the Titan Rubber Tread Slam Ball. The tough rubber shell can withstand repeated slamming to the ground, making it a great option for CrossFit, HIIT, and other high-intensity workouts. The sand-filled interior also prevents bouncing, so you can slam away without worrying about an embarrassing slam into your face. And the textured grip pattern ensures that you won't lose your grip, even when your hands are sweaty. Available in a range of sizes and weights, the Titan Rubber Tread Slam Ball is a versatile piece of equipment that belongs in every serious athlete's home gym. Titan Rubber Tread Slam Balls are the perfect choice for functional fitness training.
What We Like
- Great for a variety of training methods including HIIT and CrossFit
- An extensive range of weight options ideal for beginners and advanced trainees
- Zero bounce feature for safety
- Rubberized tread for a greater grip
What We Don't Like
- No warranty
- Lowest weight starts at 10 lbs. which may be too heavy for beginners
BUY: Titan Rubber Tread Slam Ball
Best Quality Slam Ball - ROGUE MK D-BALLS
SPECS
- Weight: 14, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 150 lbs.
- Material: Rubber
Whether you're looking to add some new exercises to your workout routine or just want a more versatile version of the classic medicine ball, Rogue's MK D-Balls is a great option. These balls have the feel of a gel-filled medicine ball, but with a textured rubber shell that offers superior grip because of its soft texture and added grooves. The grip design and overall construction make this slam ball durable and versatile for slams and traditional medicine ball training. Additionally, the MK D-balls offer a consistent dead bounce and a variety of weights ranging from 14 pounds to 150 pounds. These slam balls are also larger than the traditional D-balls with a diameter of 14 inches, making the MK D-ball ideal for Olympic-style training or even some Strongman drills.
What We Like
- Larger dimensions makes it ideal for Strongman style training
- Slam balls available in weights up to 150 lbs. which makes it ideal for advanced trainees
- Added grooves for improved grip and comfort
What We Don't Like
- The lowest weight available is 14 lbs. which may be too heavy for beginners
- Lack of low weight options may reduce versatility for exercises like Russian twists or partner-related exercises
BUY: ROGUE MK D-BALLS
Slam Balls vs. Medicine Balls
Slam balls and medicine balls are often confused with one another, but they're quite different. Medicine balls are typically filled with sand or other synthetic materials and usually have a vinyl or plastic outer that has been stitched together. They're more suited for traditional exercises such as wood chops, Russian twists, and throws, or as a weight for exercises like goblet squats, shoulder presses, or lunges. Due to the stitching and the outer material of the medicine ball, they aren't durable enough for slamming and will wear out quickly if they're not used as intended.
Slam balls, on the other hand, are filled with sand or metal fillings and typically feature a rubber exterior, and are designed for slamming into floors or other surfaces. The construction of slam balls is more durable and they're therefore less likely to burst open when they're slammed into walls or floors. They are also usually made with very little or no bounce so that the ball doesn't bounce back into your face or body.
If you're looking for a piece of equipment that is specifically designed for more high-impact exercises such as wall balls or overhead slams, then a slam ball is the right choice. If you aren't planning on using your ball for slamming, then a traditional medicine ball may be a better choice. Bear in mind, depending on the size and weight of the slam ball, that most slam balls can double as medicine balls so you can get more versatility out of a slam ball.
What to Consider When Buying a Slam Ball
When shopping for a slam ball, there are several factors you need to consider in order to buy the best slam ball for your training needs.
Weight
The first factor to consider is the weight of the slam ball. The weight of the ball is important, as it determines how much resistance you will have during your workout. Your fitness level and what you'd like to use the slam ball for will determine what weight you should buy. Most brands sell a variety of weights, so if you're a beginner you'll be able to buy a ball that is heavy enough to be challenging while still being able to train with it. You can also buy a few different weights so that you can progressively increase the resistance as you get stronger and fitter. If you intend to use your slam ball for exercises like Russian twists, you may need to choose a lighter ball, as a 150-pound slam ball may not be practical for these exercises.
Dimensions
Next, you need to consider the size of the slam ball. The size of the slam ball is important because it will determine how easy or practical it is for you to hold, grip, or catch the ball. For example, if you have small hands or you are built small, a large slam ball may be too difficult to train with, even if you have the strength to lift it. Typically, the dimension of the slam ball will increase as the weight increases. However, some brands do sell slam balls that have the same dimensions across various weights, so it is important to read the specs before making your purchase.
Cost
You'll also need to consider the cost of the slam ball. Pricing varies across different brands but is also based on the weight and dimension of the slam ball. Usually, the heavier slam balls will cost more as they're larger and made of more materials. The cost will also vary based on the quality of the ball. Therefore, be sure to select a ball that is within your budget but still offers the features you need.
Durability
Durability is crucial when shopping for a slam ball. Since slam balls suffer through a fair amount of abuse, it is important to buy a slam ball that is made of durable materials with good construction. This will ensure that your slam ball lasts a long time regardless of how hard you slam it. Bear in mind that slam balls aren't intended to be used on abrasive surfaces, as this will damage the exterior and cause the ball to burst sooner. Look for brands that offer a warranty as this not only guarantees a replacement if your ball is defective but also shows that the brand has faith in the durability of their product.
Bounce
You'll also want to consider bounce when deciding which slam ball to buy. A slam ball with zero or minimal bounce is important, as this will prevent the ball from bouncing back and injuring you in the process. Slam balls with dead bounce are best because they are constructed to prevent any bouncing and are generally the safest.
Surface of the Slam Ball
Finally, consider the surface of the slam ball. The surface of the ball is important as it affects your grip and control. Look for a slam ball with a textured rubber coating to provide you with maximum traction. Additional features like rubberized treads or grooves are also fantastic for grip since it gives your fingers something to grab onto.
FAQs About Slam Balls
What is the best slam ball weight?
The best slam ball weight for you will depend on your fitness level and the type of exercise you're looking to do. Generally, heavier weights are better for more experienced athletes who are performing high-impact exercises, while lighter weights are better for beginners or anyone who wants to use the slam ball for core exercises or paired exercises like throws.
What is better: a slam ball or a medicine ball?
This really depends on what type of exercises you're looking to do. Medicine balls are typically better suited for traditional exercises such as partner-related exercises, wood chops, or Russian twists, while slam balls are generally heavier and better suited for high-impact exercises like wall balls or overhead slams. However, slam balls have the benefit of versatility, as most slam balls can double as medicine balls depending on the dimension and size of the slam ball.
Do slam balls work your core?
Yes, slam balls can be great for working your core. As you slam the ball against a wall or floor, it forces your abdominal muscles to engage in order to maintain stability and balance. This makes it an excellent exercise choice for targeting those hard-to-reach core muscles. Additionally, the momentum of the slam ball can help to add intensity and challenge your core even more.
About the Author
Anna Meyer is a Certified Personal Trainer who enjoys writing about health and wellness. Anna has written articles about nutrition, training, sleep and stress, weight loss, women’s health, injury prevention, and more.
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