The 7 Best Medicine Balls For CrossFit (2024)

Medicine balls are highly versatile fitness tools used in CrossFit for various exercises. They can be used for dynamic movements such as throws, slams, and catches, as well as static exercises like squats, lunges, and core training. Their versatility allows for functional strength, conditioning, and explosive power training.

In CrossFit, medicine balls are commonly used for exercises like wall balls, where athletes squat and throw the ball to a target. Or, ball slams, where the ball is thrown into the ground from overhead.

In this article, we will dive into my top picks for the best medicine balls for CrossFit based on my 12 years of experience both training CrossFit and Coaching CrossFit athletes. So that you can be empowered to make the best purchase decision based on your unique needs and training goals.

I’ll also provide some examples of challenging medicine ball CrossFit workouts for you to come back and challenge your fitness once you make your purchase!

My Top Picks For Medicine Balls For CrossFit:

Best Overall: Rogue Medicine Balls

Best Deal: Titan Fitness Medicine Balls

Best Price: Rep Fitness Medicine Balls

Best For Versatility: Dynamax Medicine Balls

Best For Grip: JFit Medicine Balls

Best For Strongman Workouts: Rogue MD Dead-Ball

Best Slam Ball: Fringe Sport Dead Ball

What Are The Best Medicine Balls For CrossFit?

Rogue Medicine Balls 

Rogue Medicine Balls are synonymous with quality and reliability. They are constructed from tough, reinforced vinyl and double-stitched seams, so these medicine balls are built to last through the most punishing workouts. 

The consistent weight distribution and balanced design ensure predictable performance, which is ideal for precision movements like wall balls and throws. Available in various weights and colors, Rogue Medicine Balls offer options for every athlete’s needs. While they come with a higher price tag than some alternatives, the superior craftsmanship and longevity justify the investment for serious athletes and fitness facilities.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 14″ Diameter
• Coated Vinyl Shell for moisture and scuff resistance
• Durability to maintain shape 
• Various weight options from 4lb to 30lb

Purchase a Rogue Medicine Ball Today!

Why I Would Consider: 

If I were going to buy a medicine ball for challenging CrossFit or functional training, the Rogue Medicine ball would be my number one choice. Rogue products are known for their durability, and although they may come with a slightly higher price tag, this one medicine ball purchase will likely be your medicine ball for years to come. 

Titan Fitness Medicine Balls

Titan Fitness Medicine Balls are crafted with durability and versatility in mind. They are made from high-quality materials, and these medicine balls are designed to withstand intense workouts and frequent use. The textured surface provides a secure grip, ensuring maximum control during exercises like wall balls and slams.

With a range of weights available, from light to heavy, Titan Fitness Medicine Balls cater to athletes of all levels. Their affordable price point makes them an excellent choice for gyms, CrossFit boxes, and home setups.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 13″ Diameter
• Made with durable, poly-composite laminate with cross texture for nonslip. 
• Thick double stitching prevents the inside material from leaking.

Why I Would Consider: 

My next option for a quality medicine ball would be the Titan Fitness medicine balls. Titan Fitness has emerged in the functional fitness scene as a high-quality equipment distributor that comes close to Rogue Fitness standards but at lower costs. 

The Titan Fitness medicine balls are about three-quarters the price of the Rogue Medicine balls, so if you are building your gym on a budget, they might be your best option. 

Purchase a Titan Fitness Medicine Ball Today!

Rep Fitness Medicine Balls

Rep Fitness Medicine Balls combine durability with affordability, making them popular among fitness enthusiasts and gym owners. Constructed from durable synthetic leather and reinforced stitching, these medicine balls can handle high-impact exercises without losing shape or integrity. The textured surface provides a reliable grip and precise control during dynamic movements. 

With a wide range of weights available, Rep Fitness Medicine Balls cater to athletes of all levels and training goals. However, some users have noted that the texture may wear down over time, affecting grip performance, especially with heavy use.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 14″ Diameter
• Made with faux leather material 
• Weights from 4lb up to 30 lb
• Various colors based on the weight of the med ball

Why I Would Consider: 

If you are bootstrapping your home gym or CrossFit facility, you should opt for a medicine ball set from Rep Fitness. Of all the medicine balls in my top seven, Rep Fitness will give you the best price for a pound that you will find. This doesn’t mean they will fall apart during high-intensity CrossFit or strength training. Where they may lack long-term durability, they make up for preserving your pockets.

Purchase a Rep Fitness Medicine Ball Today!

Dynamax Medicine Balls

Dynamax Medicine Balls are a staple in functional fitness training and are renowned for their quality and performance. Made in the USA with premium materials, durable vinyl shells, and precise weight distribution, Dynamax Medicine Balls offer consistent resistance and rebound for dynamic exercises. 

The ball’s soft feel minimizes the risk of injury during high-velocity movements, making it suitable for athletes of all levels. Additionally, the vibrant colors and clear weight markings make it easy to identify the right ball for each exercise. While Dynamax Medicine Balls are more expensive, their superior craftsmanship and reliability make them a worthwhile investment for serious athletes and professional training facilities.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 14″ Diameter
• Made with a durable vinyl
• Weights from 4lb up to 30 lb
• Softer for versatility in training, including throws, catches, slams, and more. 

Why I Would Consider: 

The Dynamax medicine ball was the first soft medicine ball to hit the market. It has found itself in the weight rooms of local CrossFit gyms, division one athletics, and professional sports. This is for a good reason: The Dynamax ball is extremely versatile, and because of its durable vinyl and softer feel, it can be used for just about anything without falling apart. 

When I was a strength and conditioning coach in Division One athletics, we routinely tested these balls by Squatting to them, throwing them, and slamming them in various conditions, and they never gave us any reason to replace them. So, if you plan on using your medicine ball for exercises other than wall balls in a CrossFit workout, then the Dynamax medicine ball is your best option. 

Purchase a Dynamax Medicine Ball Today!

JFit Medicine Balls

JFit Medicine Balls are designed for durability and affordability, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious athletes and fitness facilities. They are crafted from durable rubber with a textured surface. These medicine balls provide a secure grip for various exercises, from wall balls to slams. The balanced weight distribution ensures consistent performance, allowing for precise movements and targeted workouts. 

With a range of weights available, JFit Medicine Balls cater to athletes of all levels and training needs. However, some users have reported a strong rubber smell upon initial use, which may dissipate over time but could be off-putting to sensitive individuals.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 14″ Diameter
• Made with a durable vinyl
• Weights from 4lb up to 30 lb
• Even weight distribution
• Thick outer layer with enhanced grip

Why I Would Consider: 

The JFit medicine ball is a good option if you plan on training outside or tend to have quite a bit of moisture wherever you are training. The JFit medicine ball has a thick layer of double stitching to enhance its durability and grip so that you will be able to hold onto it in various conditions. I purchased this ball during the pandemic as I knew I would be training outside and wanted a ball that would not get destroyed on my driveway pavement. 

Fortunately, it was the exact option I needed. I was able to get great training sessions in without having to worry about the ball slipping out of my hands or losing its material once it hit the pavement.

Purchase a JFit Medicine Ball Today!

Rogue MK Dead Ball

The Rogue MK Dead Ball is engineered specifically for high-intensity training and heavy training, such as strongman, offering superior durability and performance. It is constructed from ultra-durable vinyl with reinforced seams; this medicine ball can withstand the toughest workouts, including carries, cleans, and more. The dead bounce design minimizes rebound, making it ideal for exercises where control and stability are paramount. 

The textured surface ensures a secure grip, even when hands are sweaty, allowing maximum power transfer during movements. While the Rogue MK Dead Ball comes at a premium price, its unmatched durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for athletes and fitness professionals seeking a medicine ball that mimics the demands of stones and other large, heavy items. 

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 14″ Diameter
• Made with an ultra-durable vinyl
• Weights from 14lb up to 150 lb (at 14″ diameter)
• Matte black outer shell
• Ribbed for enhanced gripping
• No-bounce technology

Why I Would Consider: 

The MK Dead ball is a medicine ball you will want if you need a heavier ball for your training, such as for strongman work or nontraditional CrossFit training. The MK dead ball is only available at Rogue Fitness. They have designed an excellent training tool that ascends to one hundred and fifty pounds without increasing the ball’s diameter. 

This is ideal for those who need a heavy medicine ball but may also need more space or for athletes of different sizes who may need help with wing span trying to carry larger items. Given that this medicine ball is a Rogue product, you can rest assured that it is high quality. 

Its ultra-durable vinyl cover and non-bounce technology will allow you to perform any strength movement without worrying about damaging the ball or the floor you’re training on. So, if you need a heavier medicine ball for your CrossFit or strongman resistance training, look no further than the MD Dead ball. 

Purchase an MK Dead Ball Today!

Fringe Sport Slam Ball

Fringe Sport Slam Balls are built to withstand the most punishing workouts, making them a favorite among CrossFit athletes and functional fitness enthusiasts. They are made from durable rubber with a textured surface, these slam balls offer a reliable grip for intense exercises like slams and throws. The dead bounce design ensures minimal rebound, allowing continuous movement and maximum power output. 

With a range of weights available, Fringe Sport Slam Balls cater to athletes of all levels and strength levels. While they come at a slightly higher price point than some alternatives, their exceptional durability and performance justify the investment for serious athletes and fitness facilities.

Key Features: 

• Regulation for CrossFit at 9″ to 15″ Diameter
• Made with rubber and sand filling 
• Weights from 6 lb up to 150 lb
• No-bounce technology 

Why I Would Consider: 

The Fringe sports slam ball is an excellent option if you want a slam ball that was “made from the ground up.” This means you won’t have to worry about having the medicine ball bounce back up at you, away from you, or loudly and disturbing others in the gym. The Fringe sport slam ball was designed to be thrown, slammed, and tossed against hard surfaces without breaking down. 

Purchase a Fringe Sport Slam Ball Today!

Types of Medicine Balls For CrossFit

Wall Ball 

Wall balls are designed primarily for exercises that involve throwing the ball against a wall. They typically have a softer exterior to minimize the risk of damage to both the ball and the wall upon impact. Wall balls are commonly used for exercises like wall ball shots in CrossFit, where athletes squat and throw the ball to a designated target on the wall. They come in various weights, allowing users to scale the intensity of their workouts based on their strength and fitness level.

Slam Ball 

Slam balls, as the name suggests, are specifically engineered for high-intensity slamming exercises. They feature a rugged exterior designed to withstand the force of repetitive slamming against the ground. 

Unlike wall balls, slam balls are constructed to absorb impact without bouncing or rebounding. This makes them ideal for exercises like ball slams, where athletes lift the ball overhead and forcefully slam it to the ground. Slam balls are available in different weights to accommodate users of varying strength levels.

Weighted Ball 

Weighted or medicine balls are versatile fitness tools used for various exercises, including throwing, catching, and lifting. They come in multiple weights and sizes, typically ranging from 2 to 30 pounds or more. Weighted balls are often used for dynamic movements such as rotational throws, overhead presses, and Russian twists. 

Unlike wall balls and slam balls, weighted balls are not explicitly designed for a particular type of exercise. Still, they are instead suitable for a diverse array of functional fitness routines.

Dead Ball

Dead balls are oversized medicine balls designed to replicate the feel and function of heavy stones or rocks. They weigh 50 to 150 pounds or more and feature a rugged exterior and dense construction for heavy lifting, carrying, and heaving exercises, similar to atlas stones in strongman competitions. Athletes train functional strength, stability, and grip by lifting and maneuvering dead balls and simulating real-world tasks like lifting heavy objects or moving awkward loads. 

Unlike slam balls or wall balls, dead balls are not for throwing; they’re intended for ground-based exercises emphasizing raw strength and full-body engagement. Available in various weights, they accommodate different strength levels and training progressions, making them an effective tool for building functional strength and power.

Buyers Guide For The Best Medicine Balls For CrossFit

Intended Use

Consider what exercises you’ll primarily use the medicine balls for, such as wall balls, slams, or overhead throws, to ensure you choose the right type of ball for your specific workouts. If you only intend to perform slamming actions, then medicine balls that are stitched together may not be your best option, as the impact will loosen the stitching over time. Whereas a slam ball may be dangerous, performing wall balls with the various soft medicine balls would be a better option.

Weight 

Select medicine balls with weights that align with your strength and fitness level. A range of weights allows for progression and variation in your workouts. Consider the types of workouts you will do and select the right medicine ball for that task. If you are only performing CrossFit workouts, then a lighter ball of thirty pounds and under will work. But if you are training CrossFit strongman events, you may need a heavier-size medicine ball. 

Size

Choose medicine balls with a size that feels comfortable and manageable for your physique, especially for exercises involving gripping or overhead movements. For CrossFit, any medicine balls with a 14-inch diameter will do, as this is regulation for a typical CrossFit training session. 

Material 

Opt for medicine balls made from durable materials like rubber, vinyl, or synthetic leather, ensuring they can withstand the highest-impact workouts and frequent use without losing shape or integrity.

Durability

Look for medicine balls with reinforced seams and durable exteriors to ensure they can withstand the rigors of CrossFit workouts over time.

Filling

Consider the filling material inside the medicine balls, such as sand, cotton, or rubber pellets, which can affect the ball’s weight distribution, bounce, and overall feel during exercises. Choose a filling that aligns with your training goals and environment. If you need a quiet ball for slamming, opt for a ball with a sand-filled core, but if you need a ball for wall ball throws, go for the balls made of cotton and rubber pellets. 

Common Medicine Ball CrossFit Workouts

Karen 

For Time: 

150 Wall Balls (20/14 lb, 10/9 Ft Target)

Kelly 

5 Rounds For Time: 

400 Meter Run 

30 Box Jumps 24/21″ 

30 Wall Balls (20/14 lb, 10/9 Ft Target)

Holleyman

30 Rounds For Time: 

5 Wall Balls (20/14 lb, 10/9 Ft Target)

3 Handstand Push Ups

1 Power Clean (225/155 lb) 

CrossFit Open WOD 19.1

15 Minute AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible) 

19 Wall Balls (20/14 lb, 10/9 Ft Target)

19 Calorie Row

Wrapping Up On The Best Medicine Balls For CrossFit

Medicine balls are indispensable tools for CrossFit athletes, offering versatility, durability, and effectiveness in various exercises. From wall balls to slams, they are an essential piece of equipment for CrossFit athletes of all levels and training goals. They routinely show up in traditional workouts and are a great way to improve conditioning and power. 

By considering the factors discussed above, such as intended use, weight, size, material, durability, and filling, you can make an informed decision about choosing the best medicine ball that aligns with your unique needs and preferences.

As you decide on the best medicine ball for your CrossFit workouts, remember that quality matters, and you typically get what you pay for. Investing in top-notch equipment such as the Rogue Medicine Balls or Titan Fitness Medicine Balls ensures reliable performance and longevity, so you will only have to make a medicine ball purchase once. 

Now, click one of the links below to grab your medicine ball and get back to training for your fitness goals ASAP!