Can I Substitute Dumbbells for Kettlebells?. Part of the series: Sports and Endurance Exercises. Kettlebells and dumbbells have some similarities, but they also have their differences. Learn if you can substitute dumbbells for kettlebells with help from a nationally certified and recognized personal trainer in this free video clip. Read more:http://www.ehow.com/video_12217044_can-substitute-dumbbells-kettlebells.html