The Best Weighted Vests for Training
Looking to up the intensity of your workouts? Weighted vests are an excellent next step in your at-home or gym workout gear. Great for use in cross-training, cardio, or weight lifting, weighted vests add an extra bit of intensity to your workouts. But here's the thing: not all weighted vests are the same. A well-fitting vest that's adjustable, sturdy, and durable is incredibly important. After all, there is a potential for injury if weighted vests are not properly fitted or are poorly made. Nobody wants to be sidelined by an injury, so when it comes to your workout gear, going for top-of-the-line equipment is always best. When it comes to weighted vests, these are the top five.
Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
Highest Quality, Top-of-the-Line Weighted Vest
Aduro Sport has created an excellent option for those interested in adding a weighted vest to their workouts. With multiple weight options, a fully adjustable front belt, and an even fit, this weighted vest can increase cardiovascular health and efficiency in your workouts over time. And because weighted vests do carry a potential for increase in injury, it’s important to have the weights in your vest fully secured. No worries with this one: this weight vest will not slip, slide, or move about as you’re working out. What’s more, it’s made from a super-soft neoprene material that is seriously comfortable.
Pros:
- There’s a mesh pocket at the back of this vest for a little extra weight if you want to up the intensity.
- Backed by a lifetime limited warranty.
- Odor free.
- Built-in storage pocket for convenience.
Cons:
- For smaller frames, this vest could stand to use better adjustment capabilities.
Henkelion Weighted Vest
Fully Ergonomic and Balanced
Filled with premium iron pellets and metal rock, this weighted vest from Henkelion is another excellent choice. With a balanced, ergonomic design that fits incredibly well, you’ll forget you’re wearing the extra weight (well, almost… your legs and lungs won’t). For smaller frames, this vest fully adjusts, and due to the evenly distributed weight of the pellets and rock, you’ll feel comfortable and balanced during the entire time you’re wearing this vest.
Pros:
- Weight pockets are evenly distributed at both the front and back of this weighted vest. This means optimal distribution of weight, which in turn increases comfort and safety.
- Multiple color options available.
- Reflective straps for added safety during outdoor workouts.
Cons:
- There is a distinctive smell to this product. You’ll want to air it out for a couple days prior to using.
RUNmax Store Pro Weighted Vest
Comfort and Durability
To keep your body guessing, it’s nice to have a weighted vests that’s fully adjustable while you’re working out. What do we mean by this? Well, with this vest from RUNmax, weights can be added or removed at any point during your workout to keep your muscles responsive and guessing. As a result, your body has a potential for a serious increase in endurance, adaptability, responsiveness, and strength. With a super convenient phone pocket and water bottle holder, this vest offers virtually everything you need for an intense workout.
Pros:
- Optional shoulder pads for increased comfort.
- Equal weight distribution.
- 12-60 pound options available.
Cons:
- The velcro belt doesn’t fit low enough for security around the waist during prone exercises.
CAP Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest
Dependable and Flexible for Optimal Training
Many heavy-weight, heavy-duty weighted vests are a bit bulky and large. And while that’s often fine for bigger frames, it can be a real drag (or a downright dealbreaker) if you’re on the smaller side. Enter this weighted vest from CAP Barbell. With two torso size options (regular and short), this weighted vest can work for even small frames without compromising on weight. With options ranging from 40-150 pounds, you can get a serious workout in with this weighted vest. Because fit is so important, this vest features a fully adjustable waist belt and padded shoulder straps for a snug, comfortable, and totally secure fit.
Pros:
- Reflective strips for increased visibility during outdoor training.
- Fully removable weights.
- Excellent fit for both men and women/larger and smaller frames.
Cons:
- This vest is definitely on the heavy-duty side so it’s not the best choice for beginners.
ZFOsports Weighted Vest
For the Toughest Workout
If you’re headed out for a long cardio stint and like to bring along the essentials (water, music, key, ID), this weighted vest from ZFOsports has some seriously handy pockets for such items. It’s what makes it our favorite for long-distance training, in fact. And because the material is incredibly durable, you don’t have to worry about it wearing out quickly. The velcro straps are fully adjustable and high quality, making this a vest that’ll fit well and stand the test of time. With weight options ranging from 30-80 pounds, you can add or subtract whatever is needed for increased weights during your workouts.
Pros:
- Belt is attached to the vest for easy adjustments.
- Premium materials used for durability.
- Ultra-handy utility pockets.
Cons:
- Not a good fit for someone with a shorter torso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are weighted vests safe?
In general, with proper use, weighted vests are safe. However, they do place added stress on your joints, so if you’re new to working out, running, or otherwise just starting an exercise program, you might want to wait on the additional weight of a weighted vest. If you do jump right into training with one, make sure that it fits properly. Poor-fitting vests, or ones that are too heavy, can potentially increase your risk of falling due to altered balance as well as potentially increasing your risk of injury.
What are the benefits to training with a weighted vest?
The increase in weight can make for some serious gains. If fitted properly, weighted vests can help to develop strength and endurance. There is also a potential for an increase in balance and coordination, as weighted vests require an increase in usage of your stabilizer muscles, which in turn can increase your balance and coordination.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.