Home workouts can become monotonous if you don’t have an array of sports equipment at your fingertips. And even if you do, changing up your routine is a great way to confuse your muscles and build more strength. Whether you’re training for an intense career path – military, firefighter, etc. – or a sports competition, or you just want to up your game, a weighted vest is a simple way to add more oomph to your workout.
We combed through dozens of weighted vests online via Amazon to find the best. We considered vests for men and women and even children. We looked at weight distribution, maximum weight capacity, vest material, and how the vest stays on.
We decided on the Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment as the top choice for best weighted vests. Available in 4, 6, 12, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds, this vest is easy to put on and delivers the weight evenly throughout the vest.
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The 5 Top-Rated Weighted Vests
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Weighted Vest Overall | Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment | 4.3 |
| Best Weighted Running Vest | Henkelion Running Weight Vest | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Weighted Vest | ZELUS Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe | 4.5 |
| Best Womens Weighted Vest | Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex 10-Pound Adjustable Weighted Vest | 4.3 |
| Best High Capacity Weighted Vest | RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Weighted Vest Overall: Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
The Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment offers a vest in multiple weight amounts so you can find the one that best suits your needs. The vest is filled with iron pellets that are evenly distributed throughout the material, which keeps the vest from shifting around during movement. Whether you choose a light or heavy vest, slip it on over your shoulders and clinch it shut with the front buckle closure. The buckle is adjustable to give you a better fit, though the vest is a one-size-fits-most style. However, the bottom of the shoulder straps is elastic to encourage a more snug fit.
Made from a neoprene material that allows the vest to breathe, the weighted vest features thickly padded shoulders for additional comfort, whether you’re running or lifting. The back of the vest has a convenient mesh pocket to hold your cell phone, music player, or keys. It also has reflective strips in case you’re going for a walk or run in the evening. The material is hand-washable, and the company offers a lifetime limited warranty.
Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment Key Features:
- Made with neoprene material
- Padded shoulders
- Mesh pockets for extra weights or personal items
- Adjustable buckles
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Available in weight from 4 to 30 pounds
Best Weighted Running Vest: Henkelion Running Weight Vest
Up your training routine for that 10K or marathon by sporting a weighted vest. Our favorite weighted running vest is the Henkelion Running Weight Vest due to the even weight distribution. Filled with a combination of iron pellets and metal rocks, this vest features a comfortable neoprene fabric. This material creates a cushioned feel while allowing it to breathe so your run is not impeded by the vest itself. The adjustable buckle and elastic shoulder straps keep the vest fitting snug to your body, though it is a one-size-fits-most style.
Available in 4, 6, 8, 12, and 16 pounds, the vest measures 12 inches across and 14 inches in height. The front buckle makes it easy to put on and take off and adjust the fit. The back of the vest features a large mesh pocket so you can hold your personal items or more weights during your run. And if you run in the evening or at night, this weighted vest has reflective stripes to help light you up. Choose from black, pink, or blue.
Henkelion Running Weight Vest Key Features:
- Adjustable straps for better fit
- Made with neoprene material
- Reflective straps
- Mesh pockets on back
- Available in weight from 4 to 12 pounds
- Available in multiple colors
Best Budget Weighted Vest: ZELUS Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe
Taking care of our health and wellness doesn’t need to break the bank, and working out shouldn’t have to be expensive. The best budget weighted vest we found is the ZELUS Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe. Available in 4, 8, 12, and 16 pounds, and in a few different colors, this weighted vest features a neoprene fabric for extra comfort. The padded shoulders and elastic bottom create a cushioned fit, while the adjustable front buckle allows you to cinch or widen the fit around your chest.
This weighted vest is filled with iron pellets for an overall even distribution of weight. It’s considered a one-size-fits-most style and measures almost 13 inches in length with a buckle strap width up to 10 inches. These measurements should fit a chest of 35 to 45 inches. The back of the vest features a mesh pocket for your valuables but also has a detachable front pocket to house your cell phone. And if you’re using your vest at night, the vest has reflective stripes to keep you visible.
ZELUS Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe Key Features:
- Available weight from 4 to 16 pounds
- Neoprene material with adjustable buckle
- Reflective stripes
- Mesh pocket on back
- Detachable pocket for cell phone
Best Women’s Weighted Vest: Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex 10-Pound Adjustable Weighted Vest
It’s no secret that women are built differently than men. Many weighted vests are unisex, and may not fit the average woman. We chose the Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex 10-Pound Adjustable Weighted Vest as our pick for the best women’s weighted vest because it’s designed more like a piece of clothing. Available in sizes from small to XX-large, this vest is made from a blend of Lycra and nylon for a very comfortable and flexible fit. The fabric itself stretches as you move, and the weight is evenly distributed throughout the vest.
Made in the USA, this women’s weighted vest features a full front zipper, making this very easy to put on and take off. The side lacing allows you to adjust the fit to your exact size. The vest comes with 10 pounds of steel weights, but have the room for more, depending on which size vest you choose. Extra weights are sold separately and in 2.25-ounce bars. And though this is a good style for women due to less bulk, men can wear it as well.
Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex 10-Pound Adjustable Weighted Vest Key Features:
- Made with Lycra and nylon
- Full zippered front
- Side lacing for snug fit
- Made in the USA
- Available in small to XX-large
- Flexible horizontal design
- Weight can be added, removed, or rearranged
Best High Capacity Weighted Vest: RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest
If you’re looking for a heavier weighted vest that can hold a large amount of weight, then consider the RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest. We chose this vest as the best high capacity weighted vest because it can hold up to 60 pounds, and it’s available with shoulder pads for extra cushion. The weights can be added, removed, or rearranged, so you don’t need to jump straight to maximum capacity. The pockets are located in the front and back of the vest. Create equal weight distribution or strategically place weights in the pockets for your own customized vest.
This weighted vest features a Velcro adjustable strap to anchor it to your body. And it conveniently has a water bottle holder in the front so you can stay hydrated during your exercise routine. Likewise, there is a pocket for your cell phone, music player, or keys if you need to have personal items with you. The company stands by its product and offers a lifetime warranty on its weighted vest.
RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest Key Features:
- Weights can be added or removed
- Pockets for cell phone or water bottle
- Lifetime warranty
- With or without shoulder pads
- Even weight distribution
Who Should Buy a Weighted Vest
A weighted vest is a great tool for individuals who run with heavy equipment or are loaded down with packs – such as those serving in the military or those running into a burning building with heavy protective gear and hoses. They’re also a great tool for individuals training for a marathon or triathlon. The added weight can help build strength and endurance while practicing maneuvers or doing training drills.
But you needn’t be a soldier, firefighter, or competitive athlete to get good use out of a weighted vest. Wear a weighted vest while you go for a walk, jog, or do laundry to help burn more calories, increase strength, and build up endurance. For anxious personality types or autistic children, a weighted vest can give a sense of security to promote calmness.
Important Features to Consider
A weighted vest should have a few important features to make it effective and worth your while. Here’s what to consider when selecting a weighted vest:
- The proper weight amount and distribution. Before you invest in a weighted vest, determine the amount of weight you want to carry around. Weighted vests are available from light to heavy. Some feature the weight already built into the vest, but many offer the opportunity to adjust the weight by using removable weight packs. The adjustable vests let you start off low and slow, and then add heavier weights to take on more of a challenge. Depending on the type of vest you select, the weight distribution may vary. Most vests have even weight distribution, but may also offer the option of placing the weights in your chosen pattern.
- The size of the vest. Obviously, the vest needs to fit properly. Some weighted vests are a one-size-fits-most type of fit, while others offer sizes anywhere from small to XXX-large. Check with the manufacturer for proper sizing and bodyweight composition for selecting the right size vest. Also, weighted vests are mostly sold in a unisex style, but certain vests are designed specifically for women – these vests hold the weights lower on the body.
- Easy to put on and take off? Let’s be real. It would be a pain in the you-know-what if you needed another person to help you get the vest on or take it off. Many of us exercise alone. Consider what is used to keep the vest on and snug to the body. Weighted vests have either an adjustable buckle or Velcro straps, or a full front zipper.
- Additional features, maintenance, and care. Weighted vests may offer additional features, such as pockets or reflective strips. Consider if you need a place to store your cell phone, keys, or other valuables while you work out. And think about whether or not you need light reflectors for evening or night walks or runs. Taking care of your weighted vest is essential – and not just for longevity – since you’ll be wearing it while exercising, thus sweating and getting it dirty. Some weighted vests are machine washable when you remove the weights, while others require you to hand wash it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a weighted vest?
A weighted vest is a piece of clothing equipment that holds varying amounts of weight. You wear it as you would any other vest. Weighted vests are available from only a few pounds to well over 100 pounds. They come in men’s, women’s, and kids’ sizes, and a variety of styles. Weighted vests are used for increasing the intensity of a workout, adding a little more difficulty to your chores, or creating calm and peace in an anxious person.
How does a weighted vest help you?
A weighted vest helps by adding more weight to your body so your muscles have to work harder. Fitted properly with the right amount of weight, a weighted vest helps build muscle strength, endurance, and balance. Lighter weighted vests can even help reduce anxiety and autistic behaviors by creating deep pressure on the upper body.
How heavy should my weighted vest be?
If you’re new to wearing a weighted vest, go slow. Aim to use a vest that has a small amount of weight until you’ve built up enough strength to handle a vest with heavier weights. Some vests allow for removing and adding weight packs, which allows you to begin with lower weights and add on as you increase your training.
Do weighted vests help lose weight?
There are many factors that go into losing weight. A weighted vest can help boost your current exercise routine or add some resistance to your daily chores. Weighted vests may help build strength and stamina, which can help you lose weight as part of a weight-loss program. Consult with your doctor before starting an exercise or weight-loss program. Meanwhile, check out the best water bottles so you can stay properly hydrated throughout the day.
Other Weighted Vests We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other weighted vests. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best weighted vests list, they’re the best of the rest, and are still great options for you to workout in. The information you need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Weighted Vests Up To 10 Pounds
- 12-Pound Weighted Vests
- Weighted Vests Up To 20 Pounds
- Weighted Vests Up To 90 Pounds
Weighted Vests Up To 10 Pounds
Abilitations Weighted 4 Pound Vest
Made from a blend of polyester and neoprene, this vest features multiple pockets to add or remove weights.
Key Features:
- Remove weights for machine washing
- Front, back, and side pockets for even weight distribution
- Filled with ore sand
Cost: $73
Adurance Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
Made with neoprene material, this weighted vest has an adjustable front belt to fit men, women, or kids. The vest is available in 6 and 10 pounds and has an adjustable buckle for a better fit.
Key Features:
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Mesh pockets for holding extra weight or personal things
- Reflective stripes on shoulder straps
Cost: $30
Challenge Weighted Workoutwear
Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, this weighted vest was designed for women and comes with 4 pounds of thin weights.
Key Features:
- Weights can be added or removed
- Form-fitting with colorful design pattern
- Made in the USA
Cost: $129
Challenge Weighted Workoutwear Weight Vest
Designed for women, and made from a blend of polyester and spandex, this weighted vest features a snug fit so it moves with you.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- 4 pounds of inner weights
- 100 percent satisfaction guarantee
Cost: $139
Hyperwear Hyper Vest FIT Adjustable Weighted Vest Women
Designed for women, the vest is made from a polyester Lycra blend, with satin lining. The weights do not sit on the chest and can be removed so the vest can be washed.
Key Features:
- Available in multiple sizes for 5 and 8 pounds
- Made in the USA
- Full zipper with side lacing
Cost: $100
Tone Fitness 8lb Weighted Vest
Made with neoprene fabric, this 8-pound weighted vest features evenly distributed weight, suitable for both men and women.
Key Features:
- Adjustable straps for snug fit
- One size fits most
- Reflective stripes
12-Pound Weighted Vests
Maxi Climber Maxi Sport Weight Vest
A weighted vest that contains 12 pounds, and features an adjustable front strap for a better fit.
Key Features:
- Mesh pocket on back
- One size fits most
- Iron and sand filling
Cost: $35
Strength Sport Systems Weight Vest
A 12-pound vest that features adjustable Velcro straps.
Key Features:
- Reflective stripes
- 30-day, money-back guarantee
- Camo style available
Cost: $49
Tone Fitness Weighted Vest 12 lbs
Made with neoprene fabric, this 12-pound weighted vest features an adjustable front belt.
Key Features:
- One size fits most
- Reflective stripes
- Comes in blue or black
Weighted Vests Up To 20 Pounds
Available in 12 or 20 pounds, and made from neoprene, this vest features two adjustable front buckles.
Key Features:
- Thick, wide shoulder straps
- Black iron sand filling
- Reflective stripes and mesh pocket
Cost: $100
Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite Adjustable Weighted Exercise Vest
For men or women, this form-fitted vest contains weights that are streamlined and not bulky.
Key Features:
- Available in multiple sizes for 10, 15, and 20 pounds
- Reflective zipper and stripes, with orange lacing
- Full zipper and side lacing
Cost: $220
Layatone Weight Vest with Adjustable Straps
Holding up to 18 pounds, this weighted vest is made with neoprene fabric and has adjustable straps for a better fit.
Key Features:
- Knife holder on right shoulder
- Comes in different styles
- Weights can be added or removed
Cost: $48
miR Short Weighted Vest with Zipper
A short-weighted vest that holds 20 pounds high on the body to reduce bouncing. This vest is not suitable for females.
Key Features:
- Solid iron 3-pound weights
- Add or remove weights to adjust the amount
- Adjustable straps
Cost: $150
Pseudois Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe
This 20-pound weighted vest features evenly distributed iron pellets in a neoprene material.
Key Features:
- Reflective stripes
- Adjustable buckle strap
- Thick, wide shoulders
Cost: $46
RitFit Adjustable Weighted Vest with Neoprene Fabric
Filled with iron pellets, and available from 8 to 15 pounds, this vest features neoprene comfort with an adjustable Velcro strap.
Key Features:
- Elastic side straps
- Front mesh pockets
- Reflective strips
Weighted Vests Up To 90 Pounds
GoFit Padded Adjustable Weighted Vest
This weighted vest features neoprene fabric, a Velcro front closure, and uses granulated steel packets.
Key Features:
- One size fits most
- Weights can be added or removed
- Reflective stripes
Cost: $45
miR Air Flow Weighted Vest with Zipper
Available in weight from 20 to 60 pounds, with or without a zipper, this weighted vest is made from a lightweight, breathable material to increase airflow.
Key Features:
- Machine washable and dryer friendly with weights removed
- Solid iron weights that can be added or removed
- Front zipper or Velcro closure
Cost: $190
miR PRO Weighted Vest with Zipper
A high capacity vest that holds up to 120 pounds, and is available with or without a full front zipper.
Key Features:
- Double padding and lining
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Rectangular metal weights
Cost: $180
Made for women and available from 20 to 50 pounds, the brick weights are carried low on the abdomen.
Key Features:
- Adjustable belt for better fit
- Add or remove weights
- Adjustable in 3-pound increments
Cost: $140
This weighted vest is adjustable from 2 to 22 pounds.
Key Features:
- Two sizes available
- Double adjustable straps
- Weights on front and back
Cost: $70
