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15 Best Weighted Vests for Workouts

best weighted vest

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Bulk up, burn calories and take your CrossFit, running, and general fitness workouts to the next level with a weight vest. Whether you’re new to the concept or are looking for an upgrade, you’ll find what you need in these best weighted vests listed below.

Check out our fitness resistance bands and wireless Bluetooth heart rate monitors for even more great workout accessories.

best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Weights are included
  • Optional shoulder pads
  • Reduces shoulder strain
Price: $119.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
CAP Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Regular and short versions
  • Fully adjustable
  • Ideal for weightlifting
Price: $94.65 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
adjustable weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Streamlined design
  • Comes in several sizes
  • Durable material
Price: $215.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Contoured fit
  • Can insert weights
  • Designed for intense workouts
Price: $119.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Won't restrict movement
  • Warranty included
  • Compact and snug fit
Price: $179.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
weighted vest for women Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Fully adjustable
  • Integrated Velcro belt
  • Designed for women
Price: $99.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Adjustable buckle straps
  • Mesh storage pocket
  • Filled with odorless iron sand
Price: $36.63 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Storage pocket
  • User-friendly belt
  • Ranges from 30 to 80 pounds
Price: $89.71 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex 10-Pound Adjustable Weighted Vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • High-density steel weights
  • Odor-resistant
  • Moisture-wicking material
Price: $209.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
weighted vest for women Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Even weight distribution
  • Adjustable straps
Price: $23.21 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Double lining and padding
  • Easy to adjust
  • Durable 1200D reinforced nylon
Price: $179.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
weighted vest for women Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Comfortable breathable material
  • Front storage pocket
  • Reflective strips
Price: $39.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
adjustable weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Breathable neoprene fabric
  • Reflective strips
  • Adjustable buckle
Price: $35.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • One size fits most
  • Great for beginners
  • Adjustable
Price: $34.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best weighted vest Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Warranty included
  • Weight range of 20 to 140 pounds
  • One size fits most
Price: $49.40 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Our Unbiased Reviews
  1. 1. RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Available in increments from 12 to 60 pounds
    • Covered by a lifetime warranty
    • Ideal for strength training and cross training
    Cons:
    • Those with smaller frames may find the vest a bit bulky and long
    • Tends to bounce around when running
    • Shoulder pads come separately

    You can find this weighted vests in increments from 12 to 60 pounds. The weights are included so that you can simply strap on the vest and begin your workout.

    You can use the vest for strength training, cross training, and other types of workout where extra weight can be beneficial. One size fits most. This vest is available with and without shoulder pads.

  2. 2. CAP Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Ranges from 20 to 150 pounds
    • Comes with reflective safety strips
    • Integrated pocket for secure phone storage
    Cons:
    • Weight bags can be tricky to get into pockets
    • A handful wish the straps could be pulled tighter for security
    • Could use more shoulder padding

    The CAP Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest ranges from 20 to 150 pounds. You can also adjust the weight to customize your workouts. Adjustable clips help fit the vest to your body.

    Other highlights include a breathable mesh material and neoprene padding for enhanced comfort. This vest features a unisex design. An integrated pocket offers enough space to safely store a phone.

    Reflective safety strips make you visible to others after dark. All weights inside the vest are removable.

     

  3. 3. Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite

    Pros:
    • Can add more weight to the pockets
    • Easily adjustable for a more secure fit
    • Reflective elements for increased visibility
    Cons:
    • Shoulders aren't padded
    • Lacks a designated storage pocket
    • Some competitors have a broader weight range

    When you’re ready to take your workouts to the next level, you’ll want a durable vest such as the Hyperwear Hyper Vest. This weighted vest is made with durable black fabric that holds up to your most demanding training sessions without restricting movement. You’ll also find a sturdy YKK zipper.

    This weighted vest is also streamlined and can actually be worn under a shirt without looking odd and bulky. It’s also equipped with elastic laces for better adjustability. Not only is this vest available in 10, 15 and 20-pound weights, it also comes in sizes ranging from small to extra-large. You can add more weight if desired.

    Some weighted vests are rather bulky, but this features a streamlined fit along the torso. Not only does this reduce stress on the shoulders, it also makes the vest more comfortable.

  4. 4. WOLF TACTICAL Adjustable Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Adjustable waist straps and tension bands
    • Made with premium 600D oxford nylon material
    • Front and rear panels for attaching gear and accessories
    Cons:
    • Plates are sold separately
    • Limited weight options
    • Only comes in one size

    If you’re tired of weighted vests that leave you feeling clammy and warm, this vest features large airflow panels for a more breathable and contoured fit. Just because this vest is breathable, though, doesn’t mean that it’s uncomfortable.

    The shoulder straps have plenty of padding and provide even weight distribution. Both the shoulders and waist are fully adjustable. Premium 600D oxford nylon material makes this vest a respectable choice for your most demanding workouts, as it’s built to withstand the sweatiest, dirtiest workout sessions and tactical training.

    Panels along the front and back make it easy to attach any equipment, pouches or field gear you might need. This weighted vest comes in several colors and is available in 14, 20 and 31-pound versions.

  5. 5. miR Short Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • One size fits most
    • Available up to 60 pounds
    • Just 11 inches long
    Cons:
    • Doesn’t include an integrated storage pocket
    • Heavier vests can get expensive
    • Several mention the vest tends to bounce around when running

    If you’re looking for a weighted vest that won’t restrict your movement, you’ll appreciate that this model is just 11 inches long. The vest’s compact size and snug fit make it a solid choice for just about any type of exercise, including overhead movements. This vest also stands out for the fact that it’s available with a maximum weight of up to 60 pounds.

    However, you can also go as low as 20 pounds depending on your fitness level. Every model features removable weights. Weights can be adjusted in 3-pound increments. One size fits most.

     

     

  6. 6. miR Women’s Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Weight range of 10 to 50 pounds
    • Sturdy 1200 D-Nylon construction
    • Weights can be removed
    Cons:
    • A bit bulky
    • Awkward to put on and take off
    • Belt can be tricky to figure out

    This miR weighted vest for women is fully adjustable for a more comfortable and secure fit. In part, you can adjust the vest with the integrated Velcro belt. Sturdy 1200 D-Nylon adds an element of durability.

    A weight range of 10 to 50 pounds makes this vest a practical choice for all user levels, from beginners to more advanced athletes. If you find that you need to reduce the weight, you can simply remove it as needed.

  7. 7. Yes4All Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Available with and without ankle weights
    • Filled with odorless iron sand
    • Neoprene material absorbs sweat and moisture
    Cons:
    • Chest strap is a bit awkward
    • Prone to moving around on smaller frames
    • Limited weight options

    You can purchase the Yes4All Weighted Vest on its own or along with ankle weights for an even greater challenge. This weighted vest comes in sizes ranging from six to 12 pounds and is filled with odorless iron sand.

    Whether you’re working out in warmer temperatures or are simply working up a sweat, the neoprene material absorbs sweat and moisture to keep you as comfortable as possible. You can safely wash this weight vest by hand if necessary.

    In terms of fit, this vest is designed for men and women. Adjustable buckle straps make it easy to find the precise fit for your body.

    No matter how challenging your workout is, durability isn’t an issue thanks to this vest’s reinforced stitching and robust trim. An integrated mesh pocket provides plenty of storage space for your smartphone, earbuds and other small essentials.

  8. 8. ZFOsports Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Snug fit keeps vest in place during workouts
    • One size fits most men and women
    • Integrated water bottle holder
    Cons:
    • Could use more shoulder padding
    • Those with smaller frames may find it a bit bulky
    • Doesn’t come with instructions

    If you’re looking for a heavier weighted vest, consider this vest. You’ll find 40 pounds of weights inside in the vest, which has a maximum weight limit of 40 pounds. Each weight is removable. The vest is also weight adjustable in 2.5-pound increments.

    This vest features a unisex design and is available in one standard size designed to fit most. Another highlight is its snug fit, which keeps the vest from moving around during workouts. You can use it for everything from running and lateral drills to pull-ups, lunges, and more.

     

     

  9. 9. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO

    Pros:
    • Flexible lacing on the side for a customized fit
    • Unisex design
    • Thin profile won’t impede workouts
    Cons:
    • Weights can be tough to remove and insert
    • Some wish the material was more breathable
    • Pricey

    The Hyper Vest Pro weighted vest features a unisex design and breathable material. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps skin dry and comfortable even during the peak of your workouts. Flexible lacing on the side ensures a personalized fit.

    This vest comes loaded with 10 pounds of steel weights so that you don’t have to worry about inserting weight before you begin. Unlike some other vests, which have a bulkier design, this one has a thin profile so that it won’t impede your range of motion. Several users mention that this vest stays in place during runs and workouts that involve a lot of movement.

     

     

  10. 10. Tone Fitness Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Reflective stripes for safer use in low lighting
    • Soft and comfortable neoprene material
    • Works well for general use and training
    Cons:
    • Doesn't have a storage pocket
    • Only comes in one color
    • Can't remove weights

    This eight-pound Tone Fitness weighted vest is ideal for beginners. The weight is evenly distributed throughout the vest, which will ultimately allow you to work even harder and burn more calories.

    This vest comes in one size and fits most men and women. Adjustable straps provide an even more secure fit, especially when running. Reflective stripes make you more visible to others at night and in low-light conditions.

    This version doesn’t have an integrated storage pocket and is only available in black. The 12-pound Tone Fitness Weighted Vest has a storage pocket and is available in black and blue.

  11. 11. CFF Adjustable Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Individual packets can be upgraded with more weight
    • Low-chest belt prevents excessive movement
    • Top-loaded weights for maximum performance
    Cons:
    • Weights can be a bit tricky to put in and take out
    • Only available in one weight
    • May be bulky on smaller frames

    If you’re tired of weight vests that ride up or slide around when you move, the 44-pound CFF Adjustable Weighted Vest is worth a look. The entire vest is designed to move along with you as much as possible, from its low chest belt for a secure hold to sturdy Velcro closure.

    Every pocket also loads from the top, which helps to evenly distribute the weight while keeping it from shifting around. When the weight sits closer to your body, it’s less likely to bounce and move around as much. Every pocket also has a secure Velcro closure to keep the weight blocks firmly in place.

    Dual adjustable shoulder straps hold the vest even tighter against the body and allow for easier adjustments on the go. The vest also stands out for its durability, from its 1050 Cordura material to its double stitching and double padding.

  12. 12. Ativafit Sport Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Adjustable buckle straps on both sides
    • Filled with chemical-free iron sand
    • Available in eight and 16-pound versions
    Cons:
    • Can be a bit tricky to put on
    • Shoulders don't have much padding
    • Cramped storage pocket

    The Ativafit Sport Weighted Vest is available in eight and 16 pounds weights and is designed for men and women. Not only is the material soft and stretchy, it’s also breathable and won’t leave you feeling overheated during workouts.

    Instead of sand, the vest is filled with chemical-free iron pellets. You can use the vest for your favorite workouts, including strength training, running, walking and building muscle.

    Adjustable buckle straps on both sides provide a more secure and comfortable fit, especially when running. Non-slip padding on the shoulders keeps the vest firmly in place as you move.

    If you need to venture outdoors at night to work out, reflective strips will make you more visible to others. An integrated front pocket has plenty of room to stash a smartphone, keys and other small essentials.

  13. 13. RitFit Adjustable Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Weight ranges from eight to 20 pounds
    • Thick and wide shoulder straps
    • Double stitching keeps sand from leaking out
    Cons:
    • Weight isn't adjustable
    • Moves around a bit when running
    • Not machine washable

    The RitFit Adjustable Weighted Vest is available in a wide weight range from eight to 20 pounds. It’s also made with comfortable and breathable neoprene fabric and is designed for men and women.

    Some sand fillings can smell over time, but this affordable weighted vest features an iron sand filling that’s free from odors and chemicals. If you’re looking for a weight vest that can be adjusted during workouts, this vest stands out for its adjustable front and side straps and buckles.

    Double stitching keeps the sand from spilling out as you move. Reflective strips make you more visible to others at night. Wide, thick shoulder straps ensure a comfortable and secure fit, and won’t stress or fatigue the upper body.

    This versatile vest is ideal for strength training, CrossFit, aerobic workouts and more. An integrated mesh pocket has plenty of storage space for your phone, keys and other essentials.

  14. 14. MaxiClimber Maxi Sport Weight Vest

    Pros:
    • Weight is a blend of iron and sand
    • Padded shoulder straps for added comfort
    • Integrated mesh pocket stores phones, keys and more
    Cons:
    • Only available in one weight
    • Sand filling may leak over time
    • Some larger users find it too snug

    The MaxiClimber Maxi Sport Weight Vest has a 12-pound mixture of iron and sand filling. Many users agree that this is plenty of weight to make you feel like you’re getting a good workout without sacrificing your performance. In fact, this weighted vest is a practical choice for beginners and those who simply want a lighter weight vest.

    The extra resistance helps boost strength and burn more calories during your favorite exercises, including running and various bodyweight movements. Padded shoulder straps make this vest a comfortable choice for shorter and longer workouts.

    An integrated mesh pocket is a handy storage solution for your phone, keys and other small items. One size fits most athletes. It’s also adjustable to ensure a snug and secure fit.

  15. 15. CROSS101 Weighted Vest

    Pros:
    • Available with and without shoulder pads
    • Weights can be removed
    • All weights are included
    Cons:
    • Only comes in one color
    • Not very comfortable without shoulder pads
    • Looks boxy on smaller frames

    Whether you’re using it for CrossFit, running or another activity, the CROSS101 Weighted Vest is available with and without shoulder pads for maximum comfort and performance. A weight range of 20 to 140 pounds makes this CrossFit vest suitable for all abilities.

    Weights are included with every vest and can be removed if necessary. One size fits most adults. This vest comes with a manufacturer warranty.

What Are Some Benefits of a Weighted Vest?

One of the best reasons to wear a weighted vest is to blast calories. In fact, according to Shape.com, a study by the University of Iowa in Iowa City discovered that people who wore a vest that was around 20 percent of their body weight burned 14 percent more calories during activities.

Many people also wear weighted vests to bulk up and improve their overall fitness. You don't have to wear a weighted vest soley when working out to enjoy its benefits, either, as simply wearing it around the house to do chores or on a walk can help build muscle and boost your cardiovascular system.


Which Is the Best Weighted Vest for Running?

If you're not used to wearing a weighted vest while running, experts agree that it's best to start with a lighter weight. According to Dark Iron Fitness, that could mean starting with just five or 10 pounds. Once you're used to the weight, you can increase it to 20 or 30 pounds for more of a challenge. More advanced athletes may opt to 40 or more pounds.

One of the biggest challenges of running with a weighted vest is potential bouncing and unwanted movement. Most weighted vests take a one size fits most approach, which can make it tricky to find one that specifically fits your body. Still, we've uncovered a few weighted vests for running that tend to have a slimmer design and more opportunities for adjustments. Our favorite weighted vests for running are the RUNmax Pro, CFF Adjustable Weighted Vest and the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite.


Which Is the Best Weighted Vest for CrossFit?

CrossFit presents its own unique challenges. Between the jumping, running and other movements that come with the sport, you'll want a vest that fits just right. 

We suggest the CROSS101 Weighted Vest, which is available with and without shoulder pads, and has a weight range of 20 to 140 pounds. The CFF Adjustable Weighted Vest is made for your most intense workouts, with top-loaded weights for maximum performance along with double padding and lining.

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